Denver is where urban cool meets outdoor adventure in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains.
This mile-high city packs a punch with its craft breweries (non-alcoholic options too!), world-class museums, and food scene that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re here for the 300 days of sunshine or the thriving arts district, Denver never fails to surprise.
From red rock amphitheaters to quirky art installations, Denver serves up experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Want to see bison roaming just minutes from downtown? Look no further than the wildlife refuge. Craving the best green chili smothered burrito this side of the Rockies? We’ve got you covered.
Buckle up – here are the 12 best things to do in Denver that’ll make your trip unforgettable!
1. Get Cultural at the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is an architectural showstopper with its jagged titanium facade. Inside, you’ll find 70,000+ artworks spanning centuries and continents.
The Western American art collection is particularly impressive – think Frederic Remington bronzes and Georgia O’Keeffe landscapes.
Don’t miss the interactive exhibits where you can create your own masterpieces. Pro tip: Visit on the first Saturday of the month when admission is free for Colorado residents.
Even if you’re not an art buff, the building itself is worth the visit – it looks like a giant metallic crystal exploding from the ground.
2. Explore Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Just 15 miles west of Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is nature’s perfect concert venue.
These 300-foot sandstone monoliths create acoustic magic – even The Beatles played here! When there’s no show, you can hike the trails, do yoga on the stage, or just marvel at the views.
The Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) winds through crazy rock formations with panoramic views of Denver.
Early mornings are magical when the rocks glow red in sunrise light. Local’s secret: The visitor center museum has awesome memorabilia from legendary performances.
3. Meet the Animals at Denver Zoo
The 80-acre Denver Zoo is home to 3,000 animals in naturalistic habitats. The Predator Ridge exhibit lets you come nose-to-snout with lions, while Toyota Elephant Passage is one of the largest elephant habitats in North America.
Time your visit for animal feedings and keeper talks – the sea lion demonstration is a crowd-pleaser.
The zoo’s conservation efforts are impressive too – they’ve helped save black-footed ferrets from extinction. Bonus: The historic 1918 Bear Mountain exhibit is made of actual Denver mountain rocks!
4. Stroll Through Denver Botanic Gardens
The 24-acre Denver Botanic Gardens is an urban oasis with everything from Japanese gardens to South African plains.
The Science Pyramid looks straight out of a sci-fi movie, while the Mordecai Children’s Garden lets kids splash in streams and climb giant bird nests.
Summer brings concerts among the blooms, while winter transforms the gardens into a twinkling light wonderland.
Don’t miss the greenhouses – they’re packed with tropical plants that’ll make you forget you’re in Colorado.
Local tip: The York Street location is the main one, but check out their Chatfield Farms site for wildflower meadows.
5. Step Back in Time at Union Station
Denver’s Union Station isn’t just a transportation hub – it’s the living room of the city. The 2014 restoration brought this Beaux-Arts beauty back to life with boutique shops, killer restaurants, and even a luxury hotel.
Grab a craft soda at the Milkbox Ice Creamery or splurge on oysters at Ultreia. The grand hall’s leather chairs are perfect for people-watching.
At night, the glowing “Travel by Train” sign makes for an iconic photo op. Fun fact: The station’s 1908 architecture was modeled after ancient Roman baths!
6. Get Wild at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Where else can you see bison, bald eagles, and deer with the Denver skyline in the background? This 15,000-acre urban wildlife refuge was once an army chemical weapons site – now it’s an ecological success story.
The 11-mile wildlife drive is perfect for spotting herds of bison (keep your windows up!). Hike the Lake Mary Trail for prairie dog towns and epic mountain views.
Best part? It’s completely free and just 10 miles from downtown. Pro tip: Visit at dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
7. Discover History at History Colorado Center
Forget stuffy museums – the History Colorado Center makes the past seriously fun. Ride in a virtual stagecoach, try your hand at old-school ski jump simulators, or explore a recreated 1918 railroad town.
The Denver A-Z exhibit reveals quirky city secrets (did you know Denver once had bathing beauties at Elitch Gardens?). Kids love the time-traveling scavenger hunts.
It’s the perfect rainy day activity that’s way more exciting than your high school history class.
8. Shop & Eat at Denver Central Market
This gourmet food hall in RiNo (River North Art District) is a foodie paradise. Choose from artisanal pizzas, fresh oysters, craft chocolates, and more – all under one roof.
The industrial-chic space with exposed brick and skylights makes everything taste better.
Must-tries: Izzio Bakery’s sourdough and Culture Meat & Cheese’s sandwiches.
Grab your goodies and head to the communal tables for prime people-watching. Local’s tip: Come hungry and share plates with friends to sample more flavors!
9. Bike the Cherry Creek Trail
Denver’s most popular urban trail runs 40 miles from downtown to the suburbs. The scenic 5-mile stretch through Confluence Park to Cherry Creek Reservoir is perfect for beginners.
Rent a BCycle (Denver’s bike share) and cruise past public art, trendy neighborhoods, and river views.
Stop at REI’s flagship store – their 50-foot climbing wall is legendary. In summer, kayakers play in the whitewater features at Confluence Park. Just remember – you’re at a mile high, so take it easy until you acclimate!
10. Marvel at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
Housed in an actual 1930s Air Force hangar, this museum celebrates Colorado’s aviation history. Sit in real cockpits, see a B-52 bomber up close, and learn about NASA’s Colorado connections.
The space exhibit has moon rocks and astronaut gear. Kids love the flight simulators (extra fee).
Aviation geeks shouldn’t miss the restoration hangar where volunteers work on vintage planes. Fun fact: Denver was almost home to Space Command!
11. Catch a Game at Coors Field
Even if you’re not a baseball fan, Coors Field offers awesome views of the Rockies from the stands. The microbrew stands and Rocky Mountain oysters (don’t worry – they’re not actually oysters!) give it local flavor.
For the best experience, sit in the Rockpile section for cheap tickets with mountain views. Arrive early to walk around LoDo (Lower Downtown) – the historic brick buildings are packed with pre-game energy.
12. Day Trip to Mount Evans Scenic Byway
The highest paved road in North America climbs to 14,130 feet with jaw-dropping views. Spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep as you wind above treeline. At the top, walk (slowly!) to the summit – the thin air is no joke!
Stop at Echo Lake for photos and breathe deep – some of the cleanest air in the country is right here. Note: The road is only open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Bring layers – it can snow any month up here!
Final Thoughts
From cultural gems downtown to wild mountain escapes, Denver delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you’re here for three days or three weeks, you’ll leave planning your next visit.
So what are you waiting for? Lace up your hiking boots, charge your camera, and get ready to fall in love with the Mile High City. Your perfect Denver adventure starts now!