- Top Attractions
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Why Visit Denver
Denver's story began with the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, shaping its oldest block, Larimer Square, with rich Victorian architecture. You can see this evolution at Union Station's Beaux-Arts hub and the Colorado State Capitol's dome, gilded with real gold.
Denver manages a unique 14,000-acre Mountain Parks system outside city limits, including the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Locals bike the 40-mile Cherry Creek Trail, a green artery through the city. These urban oases are key when visiting Denver.
What is Denver famous for in terms of food? Beyond bison, the cheeseburger was trademarked here in 1935. Try smothered burritos with pork green chile, a regional obsession. The city is a craft beer capital, hosting the Great American Beer Festival.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm & busy
- Wintercold, occasional snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Layers
- #Sunscreen
- #WaterBottle
- #LightJacket
- #PowerAdapterTypeA
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-7 days with side trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #RedRocksAmphitheatre
- #DenverArtMuseum
- #UnionStation
- #DenverBotanicGardens
- #CoorsField
- #DenverMuseumofNatureandScience
- Hike in Cherry Creek State Park
- Explore Larimer Square
- Taste local craft beer
- Visit Denver Snow Sculpture Championships
- Take a scenic drive in the Rockies
Recommended Hotels in Denver by Experience
Things to do in Denver
Discover
Exploring Denver reveals a mix of urban and natural wonders. Discover the historic architecture of Larimer Square, the modern art collections at the Denver Art Museum, and the striking views of the distant Rocky Mountains from downtown.
Experience
Hike the trails at Red Rocks Park before a concert at its iconic amphitheatre. Explore the South Pearl Street Farmers Market for local goods, or catch a professional sports game. The city buzzes with seasonal festivals and live music events.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Themed gardens showcasing diverse plants from around the world.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Geologically formed, open-air amphitheatre in a vast park.
Denver Art Museum
Architectural icon with extensive Indigenous art collections.
Larimer Square
Historic Victorian block with independent shops and nightlife.
Union Station
Renovated 1914 Beaux-Arts train station and transit hub.
Confluence Park
Urban park where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet.
Cherry Creek Trail
Paved urban trail for biking, walking, and running.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
The primary route for how to get to Denver is via Denver International Airport (DEN). The A Line train to Denver Union Station gets you from the airport to city center in 37 mins for $10.50. Shuttle buses and car rentals are also available.
Getting Around
Explore using RTD public transport in Denver, which includes Light Rail and bus routes. Get a MyRide card for easy fare payment. The free 16th Street MallRide is convenient for downtown, and numerous bike-sharing stations offer another way to roam.
Local Essentials
When you plan a trip to Denver, stay hydrated to adjust to the altitude. The weather changes quickly, so dress in layers. Driving in Denver can be challenging with one-way streets and winter conditions; public transport is often easier for visitors.
Where to Stay in Denver
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Denver's culinary scene by tasting bison steak and smothering everything in green chile. The city's social life revolves around its craft breweries, where locals gather for post-hike pints and casual eats.
Enjoy
For some of the best restaurants in Denver, eat at Guard and Grace for an upscale steakhouse vibe, reserve ahead. Explore the best bars in Denver at Wynkoop Brewing, try flights. Grab brunch at Snooze's bustling diner, join waitlist.
Guard and Grace
A modern steakhouse with a grand, energetic ambiance.
Rioja
Inspired Mediterranean fare in a chic Larimer Square spot.
Buckhorn Exchange
Denver's oldest eatery serving game meat since 1893.
Sushi Den
Premier sushi spot known for incredibly fresh fish daily.
Root Down
Globally-inspired menu with a focus on sustainability.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Denver's heritage through must-see events. The National Western Stock Show, a tradition since 1906, features rodeos and livestock shows. Cinco de Mayo 'Celebrate Culture' Festival offers a parade and authentic food.
Enjoy
Discover Denver's creative pulse at modern festivals. The Underground Music Showcase is a premier indie music event. The Cherry Creek Arts Festival presents visual arts from international artists, one of many things to do in Denver.
National Western Stock Show
January event with pro rodeos and horse shows.
Cinco de Mayo "Celebrate Culture"
May festival with a parade, music, and food.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
July 4th weekend outdoor art show with live music.
Great American Beer Festival
The premier U.S. beer festival and competition.
Denver Film Festival
November celebration of international cinema.
Denver Christkindlmarket
German-style holiday market from Nov to Dec.
A Taste of Colorado
Labor Day weekend food and music festival.
Clean and Walkable City
Denver is a really walkable city with a cool, laid-back feel. We spent a lot of time just exploring the different neighborhoods. The 16th Street Mall is great for people-watching and getting around easily. So many good breweries and restaurants, too.
Unforgettable Concert Experience
Came for a concert at Red Rocks and it was just incredible. The acoustics and the views are unreal. The city itself is a great base, easy to get around and find good food before a show. Lots of cool art murals in the RiNo district as well.
Great Hub for the Rockies
Perfect base for a ski trip. It's so convenient to fly in, stay in a fun city with great food, and then take day trips to the mountains. The access to world-class slopes is fantastic. After a long day of skiing, the brewery scene is a huge plus.
So Many Great Breweries!
Denver has an amazing craft beer scene! Every neighborhood seems to have multiple breweries to check out. The food was also great, we even tried the Rocky Mountain Oysters. So much to eat and drink here, you won't get bored.
Awesome Sports Town
The city has a great energy, especially on a game day. People are really passionate about their teams. We explored the area around Union Station before heading to the game, and the whole place was buzzing. It's a proper sports town.
More Than Just Mountains
We really enjoyed the cultural side of the city. The Denver Art Museum has an impressive collection and the building itself is stunning. It's a nice alternative to the outdoor activities, especially on a cold day. Lots of nice cafes in the area too.