Things To Do
in Commerce City
Commerce City is a suburban, industrial city immediately northeast of Denver known for its mix of residential neighborhoods, large industrial areas, and open prairie spaces. The city offers easy access to Denver-area attractions, a growing sports and events scene centered on Dick's Sporting Goods Park, and extensive outdoor recreation at nearby wildlife refuges and trails. Commerce City has a diverse, largely working-class population with a strong Hispanic influence visible in its restaurants, shops, and community events.
Visitors will find practical conveniences, green spaces, and straightforward access to the Denver metro while expecting an environment shaped by industry and transportation corridors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through Commerce City’s historic district, appreciating the charming architecture and local art installations. Visit the Commerce City Historical Society to learn about the area’s rich history and its transformation over the years.
For lunch, indulge in some classic American fare at a popular local diner, where the ambiance is as inviting as the food. Afterward, head to the nearby Dick's Sporting Goods Park to explore the grounds and perhaps catch a local soccer game or event. Spend some time at the park's open spaces, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a family-owned restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Gather with locals and fellow travelers to share stories and experiences while enjoying live music that captures the essence of Commerce City's culture. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll through the downtown area, taking in the vibrant nightlife and local shops.
Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café before embarking on a guided wildlife tour at the nearby Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. This expansive refuge offers a chance to see bison, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy the early morning light as you explore the trails and learn from experienced guides about the local ecosystems.
After your wildlife adventure, have a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the refuge, surrounded by nature and tranquility. Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails, taking in the beautiful landscapes and capturing stunning photos of the wildlife and flora. A visit to the visitor center will provide additional insights into conservation efforts and the history of the area.
Return to Commerce City and enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings, highlighting local ingredients. Share your experiences from the day with your dining companions over delicious dishes inspired by the region’s culinary heritage. Wind down the evening with a leisurely walk at a local park, allowing the sounds of nature to soothe your soul.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-8 |
| 🚗Local taxi/ride-share (short trip) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Denver—easy access to city attractions
- Excellent outdoor spaces and wildlife refuge nearby
- Affordable, casual dining with strong local Hispanic cuisine
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and event venues like Dick's Sporting Goods Park
- Significant industrial zones and occasional air-quality concerns
- Limited high-end tourist amenities within the city itself
- Car-dependent layout with less public transit coverage than central Denver
- Fewer cultural attractions compared with downtown Denver
Places to Visit in Commerce City
Visit one of these nice places.
Excellent for wildlife photography—bison, deer, raptors, and open prairie landscapes with paths and overlooks that capture wide skies and seasonal colors.
Stadium architecture, event lighting, and crowd scenes make this a great spot for sports and concert photography, especially on match days.
Riverside trails and bridges provide natural views and reflections; good for sunrise and sunset shots with the city in the distance.
Wetland and lake vistas that are particularly photogenic at dawn and dusk, with abundant birdlife and wide prairie backdrops.
Industrial sites, water towers, and railroad tracks offer gritty, graphic compositions—contrast these with open skies and distant mountain ranges.
Food in Commerce City
Commerce City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Colorado-Southwestern staple—try a green-chili smothered burrito at neighborhood taquerias for a spicy, savory local favorite.
Must-Try!
Many places in the Denver region feature locally raised game burgers; look for bison or elk burgers on pub menus for a Colorado twist.
Simple, authentic tacos from family-owned stands or small restaurants are a go-to — seek out cilantro, onion, and salsa verde for classic flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Summer market with local produce, baked goods, and occasional food vendors—good for fresh ingredients and snacks.
Scattered around commercial corridors, especially along Colorado Boulevard and other main streets, offering quick, inexpensive authentic meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are generally informal and polite; a friendly hello or nod in shops and on trails is normal. Dress is casual in most settings.
Stay on marked trails, do not feed wildlife, and follow refuge rules—wildlife areas are protected and have specific guidelines for visitor safety.
Recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado for adults 21+, but public consumption is illegal—use only in private residences and follow possession limits.
Many parts of Commerce City are industrial—do not trespass on private or plant property and obey posted safety signage around refineries and warehouses.
Safety
Tipping in Commerce City
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping is customary: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–20% for food delivery. Tip ride-share drivers and taxi drivers a few dollars or round up; tip hotel staff for services. If service is poor, tipping less is acceptable but leaving no tip is uncommon in service industries.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay) is common. Carry a small amount of cash for very small purchases or market stalls, but most vendors take cards and mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Variable weather: warm, sunny days can be interrupted by chilly periods or late snow. Spring is a good time for bird migration at the wildlife refuge and for seeing wildflowers on prairie lands—pack layers.
Hot, dry afternoons with afternoon thunderstorms common; temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F (mid 20s–mid 30s°C). Summer events, stadium concerts, and farmers markets are in full swing—stay hydrated and watch for lightning.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies make fall ideal for outdoor activities and photography as grasses and trees change color. Expect cooler evenings; layering is helpful.
Cold and occasionally snowy with low humidity—daytime can be mild on sunny days, but nights are often below freezing. Some trails remain accessible; bring warm gear and traction if icy.
Commerce City at Night
Hiking in Commerce City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails and auto tour routes with wildlife viewing opportunities; great for birding and prairie landscapes close to the city.
A scenic loop trail around the lake with good birdwatching, fishing spots, and open-sky views—ideal for half-day outings.
Flat, multi-use trail along Sand Creek suitable for walking, running, and cycling—connects parks and natural areas through the suburb.
Within a 30–60 minute drive you can access foothill hikes near Golden and Boulder for steeper terrain, mountain views, and alpine scenery.
Airports
How to reach Commerce City by plane.
The primary airport serving Commerce City, located northeast of the city and typically a 20–40 minute drive depending on traffic; major domestic and international connections.
A general aviation airport southeast of Denver, about 30–40 minutes by car—useful for private flights and some charter services.
General and business aviation airport northwest of Denver in Broomfield, roughly 30–45 minutes away; serves private and corporate aircraft.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the city’s population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, which shapes local culture, food, festivals, and businesses.
Many residents work in industrial, logistics, transportation, and service sectors tied to the region’s manufacturing and refinery operations.
Commerce City includes many family-oriented neighborhoods, schools, and community parks; housing is often more affordable than central Denver.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is prominent due to Dick's Sporting Goods Park, home to professional matches and youth tournaments—attending a Colorado Rapids match is a popular local activity.
Fans follow the Denver Broncos and local high school football; tailgating and game-day events are part of the regional sports culture.
Running, cycling, and fishing are very popular given the region’s trails, parks, and waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Commerce City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but more limited than in Denver proper; look for veggie burritos, salads, grain bowls, and pub sides. Grocery stores and some cafes offer plant-based choices.
Vegan options exist but may require asking restaurants to modify dishes; for broader selections, consider a short drive into Denver where vegan-focused restaurants and markets are plentiful.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, and supermarkets carry gluten-free staples. Always inform staff about severe allergies and verify preparation methods.