Things To Do
in Denver
Denver, the Mile High City, sits at the foot of the Rockies with sweeping mountain views and abundant sunshine. It blends outdoor adventure with a thriving arts, food, and brewery scene in a compact, walkable downtown. Neighborhoods like LoDo, RiNo, and Capitol Hill showcase Western heritage alongside modern cafes and cultural venues.
At around 5,280 feet above sea level, the city offers year-round activities from summer hikes to winter slopes within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, famous for its creative twists on classic brunch dishes. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic LoDo (Lower Downtown) District, where you can admire the beautiful Victorian architecture. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Union Station, which has been beautifully restored and is now a hub for dining and shopping.
Head over to the Denver Art Museum, where you can explore its vast collection of Native American art and contemporary pieces. After immersing yourself in art, enjoy lunch at one of the nearby food trucks offering a variety of delicious local cuisines. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the Denver Botanical Gardens, where you can relax amid stunning floral displays and serene landscapes.
As the sun sets, make your way to the rooftop bar at the Source, where you can sip on craft cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city. For dinner, indulge in a farm-to-table experience at Mercantile Dining & Provision, located inside Union Station. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the RiNo Art District, where vibrant street art and local galleries come to life at night.
Depart early for a scenic drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, where the stunning landscapes will take your breath away. Upon arrival, start with a hike along the Bear Lake Trail, which offers picturesque views and the chance to see local wildlife. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the lake surrounded by the majestic peaks.
Continue your adventure with a drive along the Trail Ridge Road, which is one of the highest paved roads in North America. Stop at various lookout points to capture unforgettable photos of the sprawling mountain vistas. Afterward, visit the charming town of Estes Park for lunch at a local café and explore its quaint shops.
Return to Denver and treat yourself to dinner at The Fort, a unique restaurant that specializes in bison and other game meats. After dinner, you can catch a live music show at the historic Paramount Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances. End your night with a leisurely walk through the nearby Civic Center Park, beautifully illuminated under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏡One-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,800-2,400/mo |
| 🧾Grocery basics for a week (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to stunning mountain scenery and outdoor recreation
- Vibrant craft beer and foodie scene
- Walkable downtown with historic districts and cultural venues
- Strong public transit options and major airport nearby
- Altitude can cause shortness of breath for some visitors
- Traffic and parking can be challenging in peak hours
- Seasonal weather can be unpredictable and storms frequent
Places to Visit in Denver
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental Beaux-Arts hall with dramatic light and architectural details, ideal for interior photography.
Historic block with twinkling string lights, red awnings, and atmospheric nighttime photography.
Vibrant downtown murals and art walls provide bold, urban backdrops.
Expansive greens and ponds framed by the skyline—a classic setting for portraits and landscapes.
Iconic red rock formations offering dramatic sunset or concert-backdrop photography.
Overlooks offering sweeping views of the city, plains, and mountains.
Food in Denver
Denver Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic breakfast dish featuring folded eggs with ham, peppers, and onions, typically served with hash browns or home fries.
Must-Try!
A spicy pork and green chile stew often served smothered over burritos or as a standalone cup or bowl.
Lean, flavorful burgers made with bison meat, a staple on many Western-style and farm-to-table menus.
Rustic preparations featuring elk or other game meats common in Colorado eateries and steakhouses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An artisanal indoor market with chef-driven stalls offering pastries, sandwiches, ramen, cheese, and more.
A market within the historic station featuring ready-to-eat bites and specialty goods.
Seasonal market with local produce, prepared foods, and handcrafted items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take it easy on first days at elevation; drink plenty of water and be mindful of fatigue.
Denver weather can shift quickly; wear layers and carry sun protection.
Respect trails, dispose of waste properly, and enjoy public lands responsibly.
Safety
Tipping in Denver
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% of the total before tax; higher for exceptional service.
Leave 15-20% for bartenders; cash tips are appreciated but app tips are common too.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; mobile wallets and contactless payments common; cash is also fine.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming trees, and occasional showers; layering is key.
Sunny and warm with occasional afternoon storms; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; layering remains important as temperatures fluctuate.
Cold with regular snowfall; dress warmly and be prepared for slick roads and short daylight hours.
Denver at Night
Hiking in Denver
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails with city views and occasional wildlife near Morrison.
Iconic trails around the red rock formations offering dramatic overlooks.
Popular foothill hikes with panoramic views and accessible routes.
Overlooks near Golden with sweeping views of Denver and the plains.
Airports
How to reach Denver by plane.
Major international hub serving the Denver metro area with extensive domestic and international flights; easy access to downtown via rail, bus, or car.
Smaller regional airport about 70 miles south of Denver; a convenient option for southern Colorado and mountain getaways.
General aviation airport in nearby Broomfield, useful for private flights and flight training.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix drawn by outdoor access, tech and healthcare jobs, and a thriving culture scene.
A significant presence shaping local cuisine, festivals, and community life.
Culturally diverse neighborhoods contribute to the city’s vibrant food and arts scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Denver Broncos (NFL) are a citywide focal point during season games and events.
Denver Nuggets (NBA) games attract large crowds and a lively atmosphere.
Colorado Rockies (MLB) games at Coors Field in downtown Denver during summer.
Colorado Avalanche (NHL) games at Ball Arena are a winter staple for fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Denver.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Denver offers abundant vegetarian and vegan options; many menus clearly label plant-based dishes and staff can suggest substitutions.