12 Best Things To Do in Denver, Colorado

The best things to do in Denver, Colorado, such as catching a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and exploring the historic Union Station, show off the best of this mile-high city.

Denver is a city of over 700,000 people. It sprawls along the base of the Rocky Mountains at over 5,000 feet in elevation. It grew during the gold rush and quickly became a center for winter sports, beer, and world-renowned art.

When you visit, spend several days exploring downtown and the nearby base of the Rocky Mountains. You can stroll through the murals of the RiNo Arts District, sip award-winning brews at Great Divide or Wynkoop Brewing, and take in panoramic views from the Colorado State Capitol’s dome.

We chose our list based on local knowledge, personal favorites, and the top Google reviews. Below are the 12 top things to experience in Denver, Colorado’s thrilling capital city.

Table of Contents

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Denver’s got a lot going on. If you could only pick one, what would it be? Choose wisely—it’s all downhill at altitude.

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Top Things to Do in Morrison Colorado See a Show at Red Rock Amphitheater

See a Show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre 1/5

Mistakes To Avoid in Ghent Belgium Not Experiencing the Local Beer Culture

Sample its Cuisine and Beer 2/5

12 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado See the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

See the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum 3/5

12 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado Explore the Meow Wolf Convergence Station

Explore the Meow Wolf: Convergence Station 4/5

12 Unexpected US Cities with a Vibrant Nightlife Scene

Hang Out at Union Station 5/5

Results

See a Show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

3 1

Sample its Cuisine and Beer

0 4

See the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

2 2

Explore the Meow Wolf: Convergence Station

1 3

Hang Out at Union Station

1 3

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Highlights at a Glance

Luxury Hotel in Denver: The Crawford Hotel offers upscale accommodations inside Denver’s historic Union Station, with a fitness center, dining options, and easy access to downtown attractions.
Mid-range Hotel in Denver: The Rally Hotel at McGregor Square offers modern accommodations with a rooftop pool, hot tub, and fitness center, just steps from Coors Field and Denver’s lively downtown scene.
Budget Hotel in Denver: Hyatt Place Denver Cherry Creek offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a 24/7 snack bar, conveniently located near Infinity Park and a short drive from downtown Denver.

See a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Sample beer and Rocky Mountain cuisine
Explore the Meow Wolf: Convergence Station

See a Show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is surrounded by giant red rock formations and famous acoustics. You’ll see major concerts and performers, as well as lesser-known acts.

Since the 60s, the venue has been at the center of music. Bands such as the Grateful Dead and artists such as Diana Ross frequently played here.

The first show was in 1910, and it included Signor Ferullo’s band and other local musicians. It’s grown ever since to become one of the world’s most famous music venues. Book your tickets in advance, and don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself.

Buy Tickets Ahead of Time: Concert tickets at Red Rocks Amphitheatre can sell out quickly for popular events. Prices vary but generally start around $50. Purchase tickets through the official Red Rocks website.
Bring a Jacket: Even in summer, temperatures can drop in the evening. I was glad I brought a warm layer for the cool breezes during the show. Be prepared for Colorado’s unpredictable weather.

See the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

The Wings over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is the perfect space for aviation fans. You’ll see over 50 aircraft, from military to space.

Check out military jets and artifacts from the original flight by the Wright Brothers. Get up close to the original Apollo Mission gadgets and learn about significant events in aviation.

Visit during live drone flights and guest lectures by famous pilots and vets. Visit early to avoid the crowds and get the chance to ask the helpful museum staff any question you like.

Explore Nearby Lowry Beer Garden: After your visit, stop by the Lowry Beer Garden, a 5-minute walk away, for craft beers and burgers.
Plan for Admission Fees: Tickets cost $19.95 for adults, $15.95 for seniors and military, and $12.95 for children (ages 4-16). Kids under 4 enter for free. Book tickets online to save time at the entrance.

Sample its Cuisine and Beer

Denver’s cuisine and craft beer culture are known throughout the country as some of the best. It has four Michelin-star restaurants, including Alma Fonda Fina and the Wolf’s Tailor. Grab international bites at The Ginger Pig, Mister Oso, and Glo Noodle House.

You’ll find plenty of acclaimed comfort food and food trucks. Union Station, Larimer Square, and the 16th Street Mall are the top places to sample the best.

Craft beer is another specialty you have to try. Popular breweries such as Monolith Brewing and Cohesion Brewing serve great food and amazing beers. To try them all, go on the Denver Microbrew Tour.

Dine at Denver’s Michelin-Star Restaurants: If you’re visiting Alma Fonda Fina or The Wolf’s Tailor, book reservations well in advance, as these top-rated spots fill up quickly. Expect to spend around $100+ per person for a multi-course meal.
Visit Union Station for Variety: Head to Union Station for a mix of top-notch dining options, from global bites to upscale comfort food. I recommend Stoic & Genuine for fresh seafood and oysters if you want something special.

Explore the Meow Wolf: Convergence Station

The Meow Wolf: Convergence Station is an artistic collaboration between over 100 artists on over 70 individual installations. You’ll walk through interactive exhibits full of neon lights, mind-bending designs, and dream-like imagery.

You’ll walk through alien worlds and futuristic landscapes meant to keep you on your toes. Look for hidden shoutouts to Denver and its history along the way.

Take your time, crawling, walking, and gasping in awe through the space. Book your tickets early because this unforgettable treat for your imagination fills up fast.

Purchase Tickets in Advance: General admission costs $50 for adults. Tickets often sell out, especially on weekends, so book early through the official Meow Wolf website.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The experience includes crawling, climbing, and walking through surreal landscapes. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.

Hang Out at Union Station

Union Station was built in 1881 and continues to be the city’s main working train station. Besides functioning as a departure and arrival point for trains, it’s a hangout spot not to miss.

It was rebuilt in 1914 following a fire and still features its original turn-of-the-century architecture. Besides being beautiful, this is one of the city’s trendiest places to eat and shop.

It’s located in Lower Downtown, also known as LoDo. Move through craft beer-loving hipsters and tech bros to get to lovely restaurants, breweries, and cafes. Come during weekday evenings to beat the weekend crowds.

Explore Local Eateries: Union Station is home to standout food spots like Snooze: An A.M. Eatery, known for its inventive breakfasts. Be sure to make reservations for Snooze, as it’s a local favorite and gets busy.
Try Cooper Lounge for Cocktails: Located on the mezzanine level, Cooper Lounge offers sophisticated cocktails with views of the bustling station below. Expect to spend around $15–$20 per drink.

Experience the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the US’ most beloved zoos. It gets over 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the top 10 most popular zoos in the US.

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You’ll see huge enclosures where animals such as lions and tigers walk around freely. You’ll see rare and endangered animals, such as mountain gorillas and rare birds.

The zoo is a member of a conservation alliance that works to protect the world’s most threatened animals. Set aside an entire day here, especially during the summer.

Purchase Tickets in Advance: General admission costs $26 for adults. Reserve tickets online via the Denver Zoo website to skip the lines, especially during the busy summer months.
Bring Your Own Snacks: While the zoo has dining options, bringing your own snacks and water is a budget-friendly alternative. There are shaded picnic areas.

See Live Performances at the Center for the Performing Arts

Top Things to Do in Seattle, Washington Enjoy the Pacific Northwest Ballet — © Ruslan / Adobe Stock

Denver’s Center for the Performing Arts is located downtown and features 10 performance spaces. You can see live ballets, orchestras, and other world-renowned performances throughout the year.

Some of the world’s top performances, including Broadway musicals and comedies such as The Book of Mormon, perform at the theater. See musicals such as Mean Girls and epic instrumental shows as well.

Book your tickets online well in advance, especially for traveling shows. If you can, check out the performing arts center’s productions. They’re cheaper and absolutely incredible.

Book Tickets Early: Tickets for popular performances like Broadway musicals sell out fast. Visit the Denver Center for the Performing Arts website to book your seat well in advance. Prices vary widely depending on the show and seating, typically starting around $40.
Explore the Local Productions: Don’t overlook the center’s in-house productions, which are more affordable and have exceptional quality. These shows often feature local talent and interpretations of unique classic and modern works.

Shop at the 16th Street Mall

Denver’s 16th Street Mall is a shopper’s paradise, with brand-name stores and charming boutiques. Start at Union Station and walk the entire mile-long stretch of 16th Street. You’ll pass top restaurants, bars, and fun stores that sell everything from clothing to wild-west supplies.

Pass the Denver Performing Arts Complex and the Daniels & Fisher Tower. Then, end your walk at the Millennium Bridge, the world’s first post-tensioned cable-stayed bridge.

The 16th Street Mall has live performances and special events throughout the year. The street is especially exciting during holidays such as Christmas and Halloween.

Visit During the Holidays: The 16th Street Mall is particularly magical during the holidays. Don’t miss the Denver Christkindlmarket near Civic Center Park in December.
Explore Local Shops and Cafes: Look out for boutiques like Rockmount Ranch Wear, famous for its cowboy shirts, and enjoy a coffee break at Ink! Coffee or Little Owl Coffee along the way.

Spend the Evening at Larimer Square

Larimer Square is one of the city’s hubs for nightlife and culture. It was the site of the original gold miner camp during the 1850s. Today, it’s become the city’s historical heart.

Start off at one of the square’s top dining destinations, such as The Capital Grille. Then, walk around the square to see the architecture and stop in shops and boutiques.

At night, Larimer Square is an incredible hub for nightlife. You’ll hop around bars and restaurants as people gather on Larimer Street to party.

Dine at a Top Restaurant: Start your evening with dinner at The Capital Grille for an upscale steakhouse experience, or try Rioja for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Make reservations in advance, especially on weekends.
Visit Unique Bars: For cocktails, head to Green Russell, a speakeasy-style bar with creative drinks. Alternatively, try The Cruise Room inside the Oxford Hotel, Denver’s oldest bar, which is known for its 1930s Art Deco vibe.

Go Skiing

Affordable Ski Destinations in the US Mad River Glen, Vermont — © mRGB / Adobe Stock

Skiing is one of the most popular pastimes in Denver and a must if you’re visiting in winter. Less than an hour away, you’ll find some of the US’ top ski destinations, such as Echo Mountain Resort.

There are trails for all levels, including beginner and pro level. Rent your skis at the resorts or at downtown Denver’s ski shops.

Book your tickets early during peak season because most resorts fill up quickly. If downhill isn’t your thing, try cross-country skiing just outside the city.

Consider a Ski Pass: If you plan to visit more than one resort, get a Colorado multi-mountain pass, such as the Ikon Pass, which grants access to multiple ski resorts like Winter Park and Copper Mountain.
Try Cross-Country Skiing Nearby: Head to Eldora Nordic Center or Brainard Lake Recreation Area within 1-1.5 hours of Denver for excellent groomed trails for cross-country skiing.

Hike the Rockies

The Rocky Mountains are over 14,000 feet high in some areas. They provide some of the best hiking opportunities and mountain views in the US.

Head into Golden Gate Canyon State Park to see spectacular forests and mountain trails. Drive up to the peak of Mount Blue Sky to experience life at 14,200 feet.

If you’re advanced, bring your gear to trek through the mountains for several days. Bring plenty of food and supplies, and consider trekking in a group. This activity is very popular in Denver, and you can easily find social groups on websites like Meetup.

Choose a Trail for Your Skill Level: For an easy-to-moderate hike, explore Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which has over 12,000 acres with trails like the Raccoon Trail (3 miles). Advanced hikers can tackle Mount Blue Sky (formerly known as Mount Evans).
Be Prepared for High Altitude: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and layers to handle Denver’s fluctuating mountain weather. If you attempt multi-day hikes, pack food and survival gear and tell someone your itinerary.

Explore the Museum of Nature and Science

Denver’s Museum of Nature and Science is a spectacular museum where you’ll see everything from mummies to grizzly bears. There are dinosaur bones found near the city and fossils that tell the story of Colorado’s ancient history.

Each exhibit is hands-on and interactive. See new exhibits, such as the Angkor Wat section. Or, check out temporary exhibits such as dinosaur replicas and space artifacts.

This wonderful space is great for families or people who want to experience science and history. Come early in the day to have the museum relatively crowd-free.

Visit the Rooftop Terrace: Head to the museum’s rooftop for breathtaking views of City Park, downtown Denver, and the Rocky Mountains.
Bring Kids to the Discovery Zone: If you’re visiting with children, check out the Discovery Zone, a hands-on, kid-friendly area with activities like water play, fossil digging, and building stations.