Top Things to Do in Denver

About the City

Nestled at the base of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado, offers a sparkling mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Known as the 'Mile High City', Denver sits at an elevation that sweeps you off your feet, quite literally, at 5,280 feet above sea level. Here, the sun shines over 300 days a year, painting the city in a perpetual glow that energizes the soul. From the bustling streets of LoDo with its vibrant nightlife and the craft beer mecca that is the RiNo district, to the historic and picturesque Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver is a pandora’s box of experiences. Cultural buffs can get their fill at the Denver Art Museum or catch a performance at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. For those who prefer a touch of greenery amidst the cityscape, the Denver Botanic Gardens offer an oasis of tranquility. However, Denver is not without its drawbacks. The city's rapid growth has led to increased traffic congestion, and the high elevation may leave newcomers panting a bit harder during their initial stay. Additionally, the weather, while mostly sunny, can be as unpredictable as a roll of the dice, with snowstorms possible even in May. But these are small prices to pay for the joy of living at the foot of one of America's most scenic mountain ranges.

Things to Do in Denver

Feast on Green Chile Cheese Fries

Food & Drink

Prepare your taste buds for a wild ride with Denver's mouthwatering Green Chile Cheese Fries. Imagine crispy golden fries smothered in that rich, spicy green chile and a generous blanket of melted che...

Capture the Sunset at Sloan's Lake

Outdoors

Grab your camera or your best bud and hit up Sloan's Lake for a sunset session like no other. Watch how the sun dips behind the Rockies, splashing the sky with all sorts of pinks, oranges, and purples...

Scavenger Hunt for Hidden Urban Art

The Unexpected

Turn on that explorer mode and get lost in the urban jungle while tracking down Denver's coolest street art. The city's alleys and hidden corners are bursting with vibrant murals and clandestine art i...

Unlock the Mysteries of the International Church of Cannabis

The Unexpected

Ever hit a church where the religion is elevationism? The International Church of Cannabis is where vibrant colors meet spiritual highs. Praise be to the powers of enlightening art and some truly groo...

Take a Swing at Urban Golfing

The Unexpected

Fore! Imagine swapping out the green for the city scene and taking your golf game to the streets. Urban golfing—think regular golf, but less whispering and more skyscrapers—get ready to putt your way ...

Find Serenity in an Urban Oasis

The Unexpected

Who says you can't find your Zen in the heart of the city? Duck into an urban garden and feel the hustle and bustle melt away as you reconnect with mother nature right in the concrete jungle.

Conquer a '14er' at Mount Evans

Outdoors

Strap on those hiking boots and brace yourself for an epic ascent to the summit of Mount Evans! As one of Colorado's iconic '14ers', reaching the peak at over 14,000 feet will earn you serious mountai...

Pedal Around the Mile High City

Outdoors

Get ready to cruise the streets of Denver like a two-wheeled explorer on a rental bike! Feel the breeze in your hair and freedom at your fingertips as you pedal past iconic sights and hidden gems. Thi...

Get Splashy in Confluence Park

Outdoors

Got a taste for adventure but don't wanna stray too far from the city buzz? Hit Confluence Park and dip those toes into some kayaking fun. Beginners and pros can both get their splash on, and there's ...

Trek the Trails of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal

Outdoors

Wildlife buff? Nature photographer? Or just need to stretch those office-bound legs? Step into the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. With deer, bison, and birds for days, it's a slice o...

Chow Down on Gourmet Food Truck Eats

Food & Drink

Food truck fanatics, assemble! Denver's street food scene is no joke with food trucks servin' up gourmet grub that'll knock your socks off. From smoky BBQ to zesty tacos and decadent desserts, these m...

Discover the Wild at Denver Zoo

Sights

Lions, tigers, and bears—oh my! The Denver Zoo is an urban safari where you can go wild for wildlife. Get up close and personal with your favorite furry (or scaly) friends, just remember, no monkeying...

Conquer a Mile Above Sea Level at the Capitol

Sights

Get a Rocky Mountain high on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol! Step up to the 13th step on the west side to be exactly one mile above sea level—how's that for reaching new heights without even ...

Saddle Up for the Denver Western Stock Show

Sights

Every January, pull on your boots and get ready for some real cowboy action. The Denver Western Stock Show is a rootin'-tootin' good time, with everything from bull riding to mutton bustin'. Y'all com...

Jazz It Up at City Park

Sights

Wanna groove to some smooth tunes? City Park swings into action with sweet summer jazz concerts. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket and get ready for some toe-tapping, sax-wailing goodness under the Colora...

Bask in the Urban Jungle at the Denver Botanic Gardens

Sights

Swap the skyscrapers for lush landscapes at the Denver Botanic Gardens, where you can get lost in a maze of flora. Stroll through a world of greenery and get schooled in plant life while you chillax t...

Nibble on a Sweet Palisade Peach

Food & Drink

It's time to get peachy! Shake the fuzz off your taste buds and reach for a Palisade Peach. These Colorado gems are so juicy, you'll need a bib. But who cares about a little mess when you're enjoying ...

Indulge in a Denver Omelette

Food & Drink

Craving a breakfast that pack a punch? Dive into the iconic Denver Omelette, a hearty blend of eggs, diced ham, onions, green bell peppers, and a whole lotta cheese. It's a Mile-High city staple that'...

Treat Yourself to Artisanal Doughnuts

Food & Drink

Who can resist a fluffy, sugary cloud of fried dough? In Denver, artisanal doughnut shops take this sweet treat to new heights with funky flavors and gloriously glazy toppings. Prepare your sweet toot...

Dig Into Denver's Little-Known Speakeasy History

The Unexpected

Let's wind back the clock and slip into the secretive world of Denver's speakeasies. But there's a twist – instead of sipping on cocktails, you'll be diving into history. Scour the city for historic s...