Things To Do in Denver Colorado: The Essential List for Every Traveler
Welcome to the Mile High City, where every corner offers a new adventure waiting to be explored! Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a science nerd, or a music lover, Denver has something special just for you.
Imagine hiking through breathtaking landscapes, immersing yourself in world-class museums, indulging your taste buds in culinary delights, or vibing to live music under starlit skies. Here’s a sneak peek at the endless things to do in Denver Colorado that await you in this dynamic metropolis!
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Step into a universe of wonder at the Denver Museum of Nature Science, located at 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205.
This vibrant hub of discovery offers a spellbinding journey through natural history with its impressive dinosaur exhibits, mesmerizing space shows in the Planetarium, and hands-on science experiments that are as fun as they are educational.
Roam through the Prehistoric Journey exhibit where the roars of the ancient beasts echo, or gaze at the stars in a way you’ve never seen before. Nestled within, the Gates Planetarium offers a stellar escape into the stars. Prepare to be whisked away on a cosmic adventure that explores the mysteries of the universe in stunning detail!
Pro Tip: The museum’s Discovery Zone is a kid’s science paradise with activities that make learning a blast—don’t skip it!
Molly Brown House Museum: Discover the rich history of a legendary American figure at the Molly Brown House Museum, located at 1340 Pennsylvania Street, Denver, CO 80203.
This museum preserves the home of Molly Brown, renowned for her survival of the Titanic disaster and her subsequent philanthropic and activist efforts.
The guided free tours here are packed with anecdotes that depict the era’s culture and the remarkable life of Molly herself. The museum also hosts special events that shed light on historical customs and practices.
Denver Performing Arts Complex: Experience the thrill of live performance at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, located at 1400 Curtis St Denver CO 80202. Whether it’s the drama of a Broadway show, the elegance of a ballet, or the grandeur of an opera, this cultural powerhouse offers a spectacular array of entertainment options.
Related Post: See Denver from New Heights at These Must-Visit Rooftop Bars
Each venue within the complex, from the opulent Ellie Caulkins Opera House to the cozy Ricketson Theatre, promises a unique atmosphere that enhances every performance.
Ball Arena: Get ready for action-packed excitement at Ball Arena, at 1000 Chopper Circle, Denver, CO 80204! This electrifying venue is the home ground for Denver Nuggets basketball, Colorado Avalanche hockey, and a plethora of live concerts and shows.
Feel the energy as you cheer on your favorite teams or sing along with top artists in this state-of-the-art arena. With something always happening, it’s a prime spot for sports fans and music lovers alike.
Make sure to check and take advantage of family nights and promotional events that include fun activities for kids and special giveaways, making your visit a win-win for everyone.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Washington Park: Washington Park, located at 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209, is one of Denver’s most beloved outdoor spaces. This expansive park features lush greenery, two beautiful lakes, and a vibrant array of flower gardens that bloom in a riot of colors during the spring and summer.
Families can enjoy a plethora of activities here, from paddle boating and fishing in the lakes to volleyball and tennis on the courts. The park’s looping paths are ideal for biking and jogging, providing a scenic backdrop for your workout.
Coors Field: Located at 2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205, Coors Field is the exciting home of Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies. The stadium offers a classic baseball experience with modern amenities and an outstanding view of the Rocky Mountains from the upper stands.
Families visiting Coors Field can enjoy more than just a game; the interactive area at the main concourse features activities for children, and the atmosphere during a game is electric with fan enthusiasm
iFly Indoor Skydiving – Denver: iFly Indoor Skydiving, found at 9230 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree, CO 80124, provides an adrenaline-packed adventure that simulates the skydiving experience in a safe and controlled environment.
Related Post: Save Big at Elitch Gardens — Find Out How to Get Up to 40% Off Now!
This facility uses state-of-the-art wind tunnels where participants can float effortlessly in the air, making it a thrilling activity for adventure seekers of all ages. The highly trained instructors at iFly ensure that everyone from first-timers to seasoned flyers feels comfortable and secure.
Pro Tip: iFly offers personalized coaching for children and first-time flyers, making it a fantastic way to introduce kids to the excitement of flying without the risks of jumping from a plane!
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: Fly into history at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, located at 7711 E Academy Blvd. Here, history soars to new heights with an impressive fleet of aircraft from different eras. Kids can climb into cockpits, and parents can marvel at historical space gear up close.
It’s not just about seeing; it’s about interacting! From piloting a flight simulator to hands-on workshops, there’s something here to ignite the imagination of every family member.
Music and Entertainment
Live Music Venues in Denver: Denver’s music scene is alive and pulsing at venues like the Bluebird Theater (3317 E. Colfax Ave), Ogden Theatre (935 E Colfax Ave), and the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre (18300 W Alameda Pkwy).
The Bluebird Theater offers an intimate setting with superb acoustics, making it perfect for experiencing up-close performances from various genres. The Ogden Theatre, a larger venue, is known for drawing nationally recognized acts and providing a historic backdrop for concerts.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre celebrates its natural acoustics and stunning views globally, hosting everything from rock concerts to classical symphonies under the stars.
Jazz in the Park: During the warm summer months, Denver’s City Park (York St & 17th Ave) becomes a musical haven with its Jazz in the Park series.
These free concerts celebrate Denver’s rich jazz heritage and offer a relaxed, festive atmosphere where families can enjoy music in the great outdoors. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and settle in for an evening of smooth jazz as local and national artists take the stage.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy some of the park’s other amenities, such as paddle boats and playgrounds, before the concert starts.
Underground Music Showcase: Annually transforming the South Broadway district (spanning from 1st Ave to Alameda Ave along Broadway), the Underground Music Showcase is Denver’s premier festival for discovering new music.
Related Post: Your Dog Will Love These Pet-Friendly Hotels in Denver!
This event features hundreds of performances by local and national artists across multiple venues, creating a vibrant atmosphere of discovery and artistic celebration. Venues range from cozy bars to outdoor stages, making it easy to hop from one performance to another.
Fun Fact: In downtown Denver, Memorial Day and Labor Day are marked by a bustling atmosphere, especially around the 16th Street Mall—a mile long, pedestrian-friendly shopping mall. Celebrations and special sales kick off by 10:30 am and continue bustling through till 8:30 pm, filling the day with lively activities and shopping adventures right in the heart of the city.
Fun Things To Do in Denver FAQs
Why Is Denver So Popular?
Denver's popularity can be attributed to a unique combination of factors that appeal to a wide range of people, from outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers to professionals looking for promising career opportunities. It's a city where the dynamism of an urban lifestyle meets the tranquility and awe of nearby natural landscapes.
The city's appeal starts with its blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and economic opportunity. Denver's downtown area buzzes with activity, featuring everything from high-end restaurants and innovative breweries to thriving businesses and tech startups.
This urban excitement is perfectly complemented by the proximity of the Rocky Mountains, where residents and visitors alike can indulge in hiking, skiing, and a variety of other outdoor activities within just a short drive.
Moreover, Denver's strong economy attracts professionals looking to advance in sectors such as aerospace, telecommunications, and biotechnology. The city's educational institutions and cultural facilities, like the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Performing Arts Complex, add layers of educational and recreational activities that enrich the community.
Additionally, Denver's sunny climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, encourages a lively outdoor culture that's hard to find in other metropolitan areas. This blend of lifestyle options makes Denver not just a place to visit, but a place to live and thrive, contributing to its growing popularity both as a travel destination and a permanent home for many.
Is Denver Expensive to Visit?
Denver is often considered a budget-friendly destination, especially when compared to other major cities in the United States. It offers a variety of experiences that can be tailored to accommodate any budget, from luxurious to economical.
Denver is a budget-friendly destination that doesn’t skimp on activities and attractions. The city provides numerous free or low-cost options that enhance its appeal to visitors.
For instance, you can explore the vast array of parks and public spaces at no cost, including the famous City Park and the historic Cheesman Park. Many of Denver's museums and cultural institutions, like the Denver Art Museum, offer free days throughout the year.
For accommodations, Denver has a range of options from high-end hotels to more affordable listings and budget hotels. Dining in Denver can also be as expensive or as economical as you choose, with a wide variety of eateries ranging from street food vendors to gourmet restaurants.
Transportation in Denver is also quite reasonable. The city boasts an efficient public transit system, including buses and the light rail, which are cost-effective ways to explore the city and its surroundings. Additionally, bike rentals and shared scooter services provide both fun and affordable means to get around.
Overall, while like any city, there are ways to spend a lot if you choose to, Denver offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy its amenities without breaking the bank, making it a great option for travelers mindful of their budgets.
How to Savor the Mile High City Without Breaking the Bank
At Tripster, we cover Denver with fantastic discounts on hotels, thrilling activities, and full vacation packages! Dive into the Mile High City without making your wallet feel light—our exclusive deals make it easy and affordable.
Don’t forget to check out our handy travel guide, packed with insider tips to help you discover Denver’s hidden gems and hotspots in the most fun way possible!
Did We Miss Anything?
Let us know your suggestions for the best things to do in Denver in the comments below!
