Activities
Top 10 Activities in Denver
Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of outdoor and indoor activities that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a family looking for fun, Denver offers something for everyone. This guide highlights the top 10 activities in Denver, providing detailed information on each to help you plan your perfect trip.
Denver, the Mile High City, sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet, making it a unique destination with a wide range of activities to enjoy. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is alive with events and festivals. Getting to Denver is easy, with Denver International Airport serving as a major hub. From the city center, public transportation options like buses, light rail, and ride-sharing services make it simple to explore.
The Top 10 Must-Do Activities
Description: Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a world-renowned open-air concert venue set among towering red sandstone formations.
History: Opened in 1941, it has hosted iconic performances from artists like The Beatles and U2.
Unique Features: Natural acoustics, breathtaking views, and hiking trails.
Address: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
Contact Information: (720) 865-2494
Amenities: Hiking trails, visitor center, gift shop, and restrooms.
Best for: Families, music lovers, and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for concerts; spring and fall for hiking.
Parking and Restrooms: Ample parking available; restrooms at the visitor center.
Nearby Dining: Ship Rock Grille.
Advice: Arrive early for parking and to explore the trails.
Costs and Booking: Concert ticket prices vary. Hiking and exploring the park are free.
Description: A 23-acre urban oasis with diverse plant collections and themed gardens.
History: Established in 1951, it’s a leader in plant conservation and education.
Unique Features: Japanese Garden, Tropical Conservatory, and annual events like Blossoms of Light.
Address: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Contact Information: (720) 865-3500
Amenities: On-site café, gift shop, and restrooms.
Best for: Families, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for blooming flowers.
Parking and Restrooms: On-site parking available; restrooms throughout the gardens.
Nearby Dining: Offshoots Café within the gardens.
Advice: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera.
Costs and Booking: Admission: $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, $10 for children. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site.
Description: A striking building housing a vast collection of art from around the world.
History: Founded in 1893, it is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast.
Unique Features: Extensive Native American art collection, contemporary art, and rotating exhibits.
Address: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
Contact Information: (720) 865-5000
Amenities: Café, gift shop, and restrooms.
Best for: Art enthusiasts, families, and history buffs.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Parking and Restrooms: Nearby parking garages available; restrooms within the museum.
Nearby Dining: The Ponti, an on-site restaurant.
Advice: Check for special exhibits and events.
Costs and Booking: Admission: $13 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for youth. Tickets available online and on-site.
Description: A beautifully restored 1914 Beaux-Arts train station, now a vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and transit.
History: Originally opened in 1881 and revitalized in 2014.
Unique Features: Historic architecture, modern amenities, local shops, and eateries.
Address: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
Contact Information: (303) 592-6712
Amenities: Restaurants, bars, shops, and restrooms.
Best for: History buffs, foodies, and families.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime; evenings are particularly lively.
Parking and Restrooms: Street parking and nearby garages; restrooms within the station.
Nearby Dining: Mercantile Dining & Provision, Snooze, an A.M. Eatery.
Advice: Great spot for photos and people-watching.
Costs and Booking: Free to explore; dining and shopping costs vary.
Description: Home to the Colorado Rockies, this baseball stadium offers fantastic views and a family-friendly atmosphere.
History: Opened in 1995, it’s known for its hitter-friendly environment.
Unique Features: Rooftop bar, mile-high seats, and stadium tours.
Address: 2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205
Contact Information: (303) 292-0200
Amenities: Food vendors, restrooms, and souvenir shops.
Best for: Families, sports fans, and groups.
Best Time to Visit: During baseball season (April to October).
Parking and Restrooms: Stadium parking available; restrooms throughout.
Nearby Dining: The SandLot Brewery inside the stadium.
Advice: Bring sunscreen and a hat for day games.
Costs and Booking: Ticket prices vary. Purchase online or at the box office.
Description: Spanning over 80 acres, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals representing 600 species.
History: Established in 1896, it focuses on conservation and education.
Unique Features: Toyota Elephant Passage, Predator Ridge, and annual events like Zoo Lights.
Address: 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205
Contact Information: (720) 337-1400
Amenities: Restaurants, gift shops, and restrooms.
Best for: Families, animal lovers, and photographers.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather.
Parking and Restrooms: On-site parking; restrooms throughout.
Nearby Dining: Multiple on-site options, including the Samburu Grille.
Advice: Plan for a full day and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Costs and Booking: Admission: $20 for adults, $14 for children. Tickets available online and on-site.
Colorado State Capitol
Description: An architectural masterpiece with a gold-plated dome, offering panoramic views from its observation deck.
History: Completed in 1908, it’s the seat of the Colorado General Assembly.
Unique Features: Beautiful stained glass windows, historic exhibits, and free tours.
Address: 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203
Contact Information: (303) 866-2604
Amenities: Guided tours, restrooms, and gift shop.
Best for: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and families.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for guided tours.
Parking and Restrooms: Nearby street parking and garages; restrooms available.
Nearby Dining: Civic Center Eats food trucks nearby during summer.
Advice: Security check required; no large bags allowed.
Costs and Booking: Free admission and tours. Reservations recommended for groups.
Description: Denver’s oldest and most historic block, known for its Victorian buildings, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife.
History: Established in 1858, it was the first city block in Denver and has been preserved as a historic district.
Unique Features: Charming street lights, local shops, and seasonal events.
Address: 1430 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202
Contact Information: (303) 534-2367
Amenities: Shops, restaurants, and restrooms.
Best for: Shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings for dining and entertainment.
Parking and Restrooms: Street parking available; restrooms in nearby establishments.
Nearby Dining: Rioja and Bistro Vendôme.
Advice: Stroll the area and explore unique boutiques.
Costs and Booking: Free to explore; dining and shopping costs vary.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Description: A family-friendly museum with exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration.
History: Founded in 1900, it serves as a center for scientific research and education.
Unique Features: IMAX theater, planetarium, and interactive exhibits.
Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
Contact Information: (303) 370-6000
Amenities: Café, gift shop, and restrooms.
Best for: Families, science enthusiasts, and students.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and mornings to avoid crowds.
Parking and Restrooms: On-site parking available; restrooms throughout.
Nearby Dining: T-Rex Café within the museum.
Advice: Allocate at least half a day for your visit.
Costs and Booking: Admission: $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for children. Tickets available online and on-site.
Description: A sprawling urban park with lakes, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
History: Established in 1882, it’s one of Denver’s oldest and largest parks.
Unique Features: Ferril and Duck Lakes, historical monuments, and scenic views of downtown Denver and the Rockies.
Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
Contact Information: (720) 913-1311
Amenities: Picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms.
Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and picnickers.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor activities.
Parking and Restrooms: On-site parking available; restrooms throughout.
Nearby Dining: City Park Pavilion offers casual dining.
Advice: Ideal for picnics and family outings.
Costs and Booking: Free admission.
