planning a visit to denver

The Ultimate 3 to 4 Days in Denver Itinerary

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

by Duncan McHenry

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the most populous cities in the Southwestern United States and among the most famous symbols of America’s Western frontier, planning a Denver itinerary is a must on any traveler’s route when they’re visiting the Rocky Mountain state of Colorado.

Since the state capital has such a dynamic cultural landscape, and there’s so much to explore even outside of the urban core, planning for 3 to 4 days in Denver with the city as a home base is an ideal way to plan things.

Your itinerary might consist of several days experiencing all the city has to offer within a few square miles, exploring such neighborhoods as the Capitol Hill and Cheesman Park areas, or you could just as easily plan to drive outside the city for day trips to attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park , the Mt. Evans Wilderness area, and the ski slopes of Summit County.  

If you’re planning a trip to the Centennial State and are looking to spend 3 to 4 days in the Colorado capital, the itinerary below will give you some ideas and a general sense of how you might structure your visit.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Denver?  

When considering how many days to spend in Denver, you might want to look at how much time you have for your Colorado itinerary overall and decide what your priorities are.

If you want as much time as possible feeling like you’ve escaped the “big city” pressures of everyday life, then a major population center like Denver may not be the best choice.

With that said, Denver is obviously a convenient place to rest your head after landing at Denver International Airport ( choosing Boulder instead of Denver is another option) —your most likely entry point when not driving into the state—so it’s easy to spend time up in the mountains and return to the city in the evening after a short trip each day, if desired.

Another thing to keep in mind when outlining your itinerary is that it might be convenient to plan for two days in the city and two days venturing somewhere by car within roughly a two to three-hour drive radius.

That way, assuming you’re seeing Denver in 4 days, you can spend two of your days really getting acquainted with Denver proper before doing a short “trip within a trip,” which might take you to a classic Colorado mountain town like Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge , or Estes Park.

But even if you’re only planning to experience Denver in 3 days, the convenient highway layout surrounding the city (assuming you avoid traffic) and many transportation options will leave you feeling like you did your visit justice with 3 days.  

If you happen to only have 2 days in Denver, plan to spend that within the city itself. This is a good amount of time to be able to see the main highlights in the Colorado capital and is sure to give you a good taste for the city.

Getting To & Around Denver

If you haven’t flown into Denver International Airport, there’s a good chance you’ll be coming to Denver via either Interstate 70 (the main east-to-west highway corridor) or Interstate 25 (the main highway running north to south).

Once you’re in the city, Denver is an easy city to navigate by car (you can rent a car on Rentalcars.com ), on foot, or by utilizing public transportation.

It’s worth considering that the city’s traffic grid wasn’t originally designed to handle quite the level of stress that it sees nowadays, with Denver having gained a reputation as a “transplant city” thanks to the high influx of new residents coming from surrounding states and both the East and West coasts of the US.

This means it’s a good idea to plan on your local drive time happening outside the peak hours of morning and late-afternoon rush hour traffic on weekdays, and avoid the I-70 corridor to and from the mountains on Fridays and Sundays after about 2 p.m. (the ski-season crowds can be especially thick).

If the specific itinerary you’ve planned doesn’t include leaving the city much, then you could easily spend 3 days in Denver (or even 4) without renting or owning a car.

The city’s “Regional Transportation District” (RTD) buses run like clockwork all around the city, its satellite towns, and its suburbs, and rideshare services Uber and Lyft have been a mainstay here now for the better part of a decade.

Getting from the airport to downtown can be your most important point of logistics, but once you’ve reached your chosen lodgings, you have a lot of options for getting around in Denver.  

3 to 4-Day Denver Itinerary

With its abundance of sunny days, proximity to the Rocky Mountains, and thriving network of recreation and athletic goods shops like Wilderness Exchange and REI, the Colorado capital enjoys a well-deserved reputation as an active city with close ties to the outdoors and there are countless things to do in Denver.

This itinerary includes a mixture of outdoor-oriented activities and fun things to do indoors around the city itself, since you’ll have plenty of chances for both.

Day 1 – Hip Neighborhoods, Outdoor Activities and Museums

Explore the highlands neighborhood  .

The part of northwest Denver consisting of the Highlands, Sunnyside and River North Art District (RiNo) neighborhoods have a welcoming mix of classic brick and stone architecture and newer businesses and restaurants.

Tennyson Street is a local’s favorite strip where art galleries, street art and small boutique shops line the block, and weekends bring in the nightlife crowds thanks to live music acts playing in bars like Local 46. You could also opt to visit Denver Central Market.

There are some great breakfast and brunch places too (try Cozy Cottage for a great eggs benedict), making a stop through this part of the city a great way to kick off your first day in town.  

Mountain Biking at Buffalo Creek

If the weather is good and you’re up for a drive of roughly an hour and a half from Denver, the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area is a favorite of local mountain bikers that’s located near Pine, Colorado.

The big draw here is that, along with being so close to Denver, Buffalo Creek has some of the Front Range’s best smooth singletrack trails.

Highly detailed trail maps and reviews are available online for most of the routes, and those looking to ride who haven’t brought their own bikes will find plenty of rental opportunities in and around the Denver area.

This can be a great outdoor activity if worked into a day on your itinerary with clear skies and relatively dry conditions (the trails can get very muddy at times).

Visit the Denver Art Museum 

When you’ve had a chance to regroup after your first day’s activities, consider getting a dose of downtown by visiting the Denver Art Museum and its many collections showcasing art from all around the world.

The museum itself is a brilliant example of modern architecture, and exhibits have focused on Latin American art, empowered feminine fashion, and American painters in France, just to name a few.

After you’re done browsing, be sure to stop in any of the museum’s dining areas—including a restaurant, café, and outdoor terrace—for a meal or dessert and coffee.  

Day 2 – Explore Denver’s Parks, Craft Beer Scene & Art Districts

Morning walk in cheesman park.

For a more urban outdoor experience that will be a refreshing start to a day on this Denver itinerary, take a walk around the sprawling Cheesman Park.

This park connects to the Denver Botanic Gardens, which is also worth a stop while you’re in the neighborhood, and next to City Park and Washington Park is as close to a Central Park-style greenspace as anything in Denver.

In the summertime, keep an eye out for live concerts in the amphitheater area. You can even sip a cup of coffee or a cocktail and enjoy the music from afar at one of the cafes and bars that line the adjacent city blocks.  

Tour the Craft Beer Scene

At this point, Denver’s burgeoning craft beer scene and the local sentiment of “throw a stone in any direction and you’ll hit a craft brewery” is embedded to the point of becoming cliché.

All the same, Denver really is a craft beer aficionado’s paradise, so no Denver itinerary would be complete without mention of a few hours spent exploring some of the city’s top establishments like Denver Beer Co., Ratio, Prost, Wynkoop, and Great Divide, to name just a handful.

If you’re really lucky, you may even find yourself in Denver when the city plays host to one of its major annual beer festivals, such as the Mile High Beer Festival or the Great American Beer Festival.

If you want to learn more about the breweries and visit a number of popular spots, consider booking this craft beer tour.

Visit Local Art Districts  

For a dose of nightlife on this evening of your day spent in the city, take a tour around one or a couple of Denver’s art and retail districts like Larimer Square, RiNo (a local’s nicknaming of “River North”), and the famed 16th Street Shopping Mall.

Larimer Square has a historic feel with unique shops housed in Victorian-style buildings, while RiNo is one of Denver’s trendier areas with a great mixture of contemporary art galleries, food halls, concert venues, and cocktail bars.

For anyone looking to get their shopping fix, the 16th Street Mall and Cherry Creek areas are not far from each other and together feature the city’s best concentrations of high-end shopping and dining establishments.

Those travelling with kids may find that it’s a good idea to head to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science instead during this time. Another alternative is to explore the LoDo (lower downtown) District for another urban area. This is an excellent way to end a quick 2 days or weekend in Denver.

Day 3 – Explore the Rocky Mountains  

Rei flagship.

On at least one of your days in Denver, be sure to plan for some Rocky Mountain sightseeing and hiking.

If you haven’t already stopped in REI to gear up for mountain biking, this is another opportunity to see Denver’s “Flagship” REI store. This massive retail storefront is among the largest of its kind in the nation (rivaled by a sister Flagship REI in Seattle) and stands not only as a gear shop but as a full-on shrine to outdoor recreation.

You’ll see climbers roped in and trying out shoes on a towering climbing wall, and expert staff members are always on hand to answer questions and swap stories. There’s even a Starbucks on-site if you need to grab some caffeine before heading up into the mountains.    

Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park 

Rocky Mountain National Park, and its basecamp town of Estes Park, is less than two hours away from Denver by car. Just a few minutes inside of the Park’s main Beaver Meadows entrance station, you’ll find yourself looking out across far-ranging views of the glacial Moraine Park and the Continental Divide.

The highest mountain in view, Long’s Peak, keeps at least some snow at its heights of over 14,000 feet all year round, and you always have a chance at seeing wild animals such as elk, moose, and bighorn sheep, among many others.

Trailheads are in good supply at the Fall River area (Lawn Lake is a favorite if you can endure the steep, switch-backed first mile or so), near Moraine Park and Glacier Gorge, and all the way over on RMNP’s Grand Lakeside. Traversing the Divide via Trail Ridge Road is a must if you’re here when weather permits.

Dinner at a Local Mainstay 

Now that you’re back in Denver after another full day of activities, take the chance to go out for dinner at one of the best local restaurants in the city like Blackbelly, Tavernetta, Fruition, or El Five, to name just a few.

One could drive themselves nuts trying to sample all of the best restaurants in Denver, so a good strategy might be to settle on a style of cuisine you’re in the mood for and go from there.

Do you want authentic Vietnamese food? That’ll narrow things down to at least a more manageable dozen or so options… But good luck, if the best tacos are what you’re after, as the list of great possibilities, is likely to number in the triple digits considering all of the great Latin American restaurants sprinkled around the greater Denver area.  

If you want an insider’s guide to the Denver food scene, consider booking this downtown food tour.

Day 4 – More Day Trips

Day trip to summit county or mt. evans .

If happen to be visiting Denver during winter in the ski season months of roughly December through March, then you’ll want to consider making the drive up the I-70 West corridor to the powdery slopes of Summit County.

Big-ticket mountains owned by the Vail Resorts group such as Keystone, Breckenridge or Vail are a great option, but you can also consider smaller-time resorts such as Loveland and Eldora when looking to economize.

If your time in Denver falls in the other two-thirds of the year when skiing is off the menu, consider making the relatively short drive to the Mt. Evans Wilderness Area.

This is worth a day trip even if you’re not much of a hiker, as the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America and affords some of the most spectacular views you’ll ever see of the Colorado high country. Bring your camera and keep an eye out for mountain goats.  

Red Rocks Evening Show (seasonally dependent) 

You’ll want to check the Red Rocks Amphitheatre events calendar when planning for this one, but if the timing is right, you’ll be able to see a big-ticket musical act at arguably the best outdoor concert venue in America.

Natural crimson rock formations loom all around, and rows of seating climb up to expansive views looking out to Denver’s skyscrapers in the east. Famous musical acts the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Daft Punk have played here over the years, and some of the biggest names on the charts always make the annual lineup.

Also keep in mind that even if you’re here outside of the main concert season in the colder months of the year, you can still access the interior venue space and explore any of the surrounding hiking trails.

Where to Stay in Denver

Westin Denver Downton – This hotel is an excellent option in Downtown Denver if you’re after a great, high-end hotel option. Situated within easy reach of all that the city has to offer, they have countless large and clean rooms available along with numerous other amenities.

Holiday Inn Express Downtown Denver – If you’re after a great, predictable option located in downtown Denver, then this hotel is a solid choice. There are a myriad of clean and comfortable rooms available and a breakfast spread is included in the nightly rate.

Private Rental – If you want to experience Denver from a local’s perspective, then a private vacation rental — like this centrally located farmhouse — is a fantastic choice for you. There are tons of properties to choose from in the city that are sure to suit your needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Denver hotels

This Denver itinerary is just one example of how you might structure a trip to the Mile High City. Be sure to consider whether you have 3 or 4 days in Denver, how much time (if any) you’d like to spend up in the mountains, and how you’ll be getting around.

With these things in mind and some good seasonal planning, you’ll be sure to make the best of your visit to Colorado’s state capital.

Are you planning a trip to Denver? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Duncan McHenry

Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains.

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2 Days in Denver: The Perfect Itinerary From a Local!

Planning a short trip to the Mile-High City? We have the perfect 2 days in Denver itinerary (written by a local) including the best things to do, where to eat, drink and stay and other insider tips for a great visit.

The capital of Colorado, Denver is nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The people here are friendly, and they value the outdoors, a good craft beer, and social gatherings with friends.

As an outsider, you’ve likely heard of Denver’s 300+ days of annual sunshine. Or, more commonly, that Denver is “the Mile High City” because our elevation is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level.

But to those unfamiliar with this small city, a wealth of amazing food, places to stay and things to do awaits. You could easily spend a week here and not see it all. But if all you have is a two-day weekend, that’s plenty of time to hit the key points in Denver and really get a feel for the city.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking after clicking on these links, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you).

2 Days in Denver, Colorado – Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Day one in denver, co, breakfast / union station.

What once was old has now been restored! Union Station underwent a complete overhaul in 2012, and is now a popular hangout spot in the city. It’s conveniently located near the beginning of the 16th Street Mall (on the north end), so this is the perfect place to start your first day.

You’ll find plenty of dining options within Union Station. Snooze , in particular, is a favorite around the city for breakfast. However, if you don’t mind walking a small bit (2-3 minutes) from Union Station, I can’t recommend Tupelo Honey enough!

16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall is a one-mile long pedestrian promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and various attractions smack dab in the middle of downtown Denver.

The best way to explore the 16th Street Mall is to walk . That way you can pop in and out of various businesses along the way. You can also stop and watch the street performers, and are sure to encounter some of the best people watching around.

However, if you can’t (or don’t want to) walk, you also have the option of utilizing the free mall ride shuttle . These buses continuously run along the 16th Street Mall (which is closed to any other vehicles) in both directions to get you to your next destination even faster.

Lunch at Sam’s No. 3

If you really want to get a feel for Denver’s beloved restaurant scene, a stop at Sam’s No. 3 is a must. This diner is absolutely adored by Denverites and visitors alike. In fact, if you’re a fan of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” you may recognize this spot.

Like many diners, the menu is quite extensive. However, unlike many diners…all of it at Sam’s is fabulously delicious. You really can’t go wrong with anything you order; however, Sam’s is particularly known for their kickin’ green chili and massive breakfast burritos (served all day, of course).

Capitol Building

One of downtown Denver’s most iconic buildings, the Capitol Building is certainly worth a quick pit stop during your visit. Modeled after the U.S. Capitol Building, the most distinctive feature is the gold-plated dome. And yes, it’s made from real gold!

The building offers a free tour, if that’s something you’re into. But make sure you stop and get a picture on the 13th step leading up to the entrance. This point is exactly one mile above sea level, and given Denver is known as the “Mile High City,” this commemorative photo is perfect to remember your trip by.

Denver Art Museum

If art is your thing, then the Denver Art Museum is where you need to be. With over 70,000 pieces of art in their collection, you could spend multiple days exploring here alone.

In addition to permanent pieces, the DAM also hosts a variety of shorter term exhibitions. Covering everything from historical art pieces, to digital art installations, to performance art, you’re sure to find something intriguing!

If you are planning to visit a few museums, consider purchasing a CityPass to save up to 42% off admission.

Voodoo Doughnuts

Unless you live under a rock, you’ve likely heard about these amazingly tasty morsels of doughy goodness. Denver was the first Voodoo Doughnuts location opened outside of Oregon, and people have been lining up ever since.

Swing by for an afternoon sugar rush to keep your energy up. There’s no shortage of amazing flavors to try, but the maple bacon long john is where it’s at (in my opinion).

Larimer Square / Dinner

Larimer Square is probably Denver’s most historic and significant block. This is the city’s oldest commercial block, and served as the city’s business hub for many years. After a much-needed renovation in the 1960s, it is once again a bustling hub for the city.

Here there are many bars, restaurants and shops to explore. A popular choice (and personal favorite) for dinner is Osteria Marco , a casual but delicious Italian restaurant.

Catch a Performance

Denver is a mecca for all things performing arts! In fact, the Denver Performing Arts Complex is the largest performing arts center (under one roof) in the entire country.

But if Broadway musicals and plays don’t tickle your fancy, Denver still has something for you!

Catch stand-up comedy at the city’s most beloved comedy club, Comedy Works . Or dance the night away during a concert at one of our (many) amazing music venues.

Day Two in Denver, CO

Start your second day off in Denver’s Ballpark neighborhood! First stop being The Lobby , where you can grab an amazing breakfast (or brunch) to kick start your day.

Not only do they have incredibly inventive and delicious food, but their drinks are on point as well! And while not necessarily conducive to a day of sightseeing, you can imbibe on bottomless mimosas at The Lobby every day of the week. So an important decision will need to be made here, and I won’t judge either way.

Explore RiNo

If you emerge from The Lobby without a belly full of mimosas, the next stop on the agenda is exploring Denver’s River North Art District (aka RiNo) neighborhood. This is one of Denver’s most eclectic and trendy neighborhoods, so there are tons of options to see and do here.

You will have a front row seat to Denver’s street art scene when walking the streets of RiNo. You can sign up for a guided street art tour of RiNo here . And if you’re a beer lover, there’s no shortage of amazing craft breweries in this neighborhood. Including Blue Moon , Ratio Beerworks , Epic Brewing , and so many more.

You can also try your hand at axe throwing at DAGAR which is one part art gallery, one part axe room. Or you can come back here at night to catch a show at the Mission Ballroom . Really, the possibilities are endless.

Denver Central Market / Lunch

The last few years in Denver have seen an explosion of food halls and gourmet markets, and we certainly aren’t mad about it. And in the RiNo neighborhood, that means a stop at Denver Central Market .

Bustling at any time of day, this market has a variety of shops and food stalls to check out. You can grab a drink at the Curio Bar , savor some legit Italian prosciutto at Vero , or indulge in a sweet treat at Temper Chocolates and Confections .

There are plenty of options, but narrowing them down and making a choice will not be easy.

Catch a Game

Denver is a very sports-centric city. In fact, we have a professional sports team covering pretty much every major sports franchise! That means no matter when you visit, you have a good chance of being able to catch a home game in the Mile High City.

Football: Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High Basketball: Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center Baseball: Colorado Rockies at Coors Field Hockey: Colorado Avalanche at the Pepsi Center Soccer: Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park Lacrosse: Colorado Mammoth at the Pepsi Center

Drinks with a View

One of the best views you can get from Denver is of the Rocky Mountains to the west. And the best way to catch that view is from one of the many rooftop bars in Denver .

It’s honestly hard to find a bad rooftop here. But if you’re looking for drinks with some of the most killer views, then I really suggest checking out the Viewhouse (Ballpark neighborhood), 54 Thirty in the Le Meridien (Downtown), or Avanti Food & Beverage (Highlands neighborhood).

Where to Stay in Denver

For first-time visitors, it’s generally a good idea to stay as close to downtown Denver as possible. You’ll be closer to the action, and will save on overall transportation costs. A couple of hotel suggestions are below, but Denver has no shortage of great hotel options to consider.

Brown Palace

The Brown Palace is Denver’s most-famous (and definitely more expensive) historic hotel. But if your budget allows, it’s worth a splurge to live in the lap of luxury for a couple nights.

Le Meridien

A more reasonable option cost-wise, the Le Meridien is relatively new and very centrally located. Plus they have the city’s tallest open-air rooftop bar on the 54th floor! As you can imagine, the views of the city from up there (season permitting) are amazing.

Denver Travel Tips

Denver is a well-connected city that is generally easy to navigate. However, the larger metropolitan area is pretty geographically spread out.

If your interests while visiting are contained within the downtown area, you can easily get by without renting a car. However, if you wish to explore the greater metropolitan area, having a car would make that a bit easier for you.

Flying in to Denver is a breeze. Denver International Airport (DIA) is located approximately 30 minutes outside the city, but is easily connected to downtown via train, which runs from DIA to downtown approximately every 30 minutes.

The Light Rail is Denver’s main public transportation system connecting downtown Denver to surrounding areas. The fee structure is based on travel zones, so the further you go, the more expensive it is.

Ride Share / Taxis

Like any major metropolitan area in the US, Denver has a large network of cabs and ride share companies to choose from. Typically speaking this is the most effective way to get around the city.

If your time is short there are several half and full day tours that can provide you with an overview of Denver, including walking tours , bike tours , segway tours  and motor scooter tours .

Kara’s Bio: Kara is the founder, writer and editor behind Happening in Denver , a travel blog. After fleeing small-town life in Wyoming, Kara has called Denver, CO home for the last 12 years. In her free time, she’s dreaming up her next trip, petting any dog that will let her, and laughing (loudly) at any opportunity. You can follow her on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

Looking for ideas for more places to visit in the United States? Here is some USA bucket list inspiration:

• The Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List: 100+ Best Places to Visit in USA
• Best USA Road Trips For Your Bucket List

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Your Trip to Denver: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Getting around.

• Altitude Sickness

Things to Do

Denver day trips, what to eat and drink, where to stay, hotel or rental, getting there, money-saving tips.

• The Best Time to Visit Denver
• Weather & Climate
• Denver International Airport Guide
• Neighborhoods to Know
• Public Transportation
• Top Things to Do
• Free Things to Do
• Things to Do With Kids
• Skiing Near Denver
• Hiking Near Denver
• National Parks to Visit From Denver
• The Best Food in Denver
• Denver's Best Restaurants
• Best Bars in Denver
• Top Denver Breweries

Lightvision, LLC/Getty Images

Located exactly 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver, Colorado is a great place to visit. Denver has long been a destination for outdoor adventure but over the past twenty years has come into its own with award-winning restaurants, museums and live entertainment, and an influx and arts of culture.

If you’re visiting the Mile High City or are thinking about a trip, you’ll need to be prepared for the best time possible. Denver is a city influenced by many different cultures and its location a mile above sea level means you aren’t likely to experience a city like it anytime soon. Let’s learn all about Denver including planning your trip, things to do, and everything in-between. With our complete guide to Denver, you’ll be ready to hop on a plane in the morning.

If you want the most events, festivals, things to do, and the best weather to enjoy Denver — you need to visit during the summer months of June, July, and August. You can see an outdoor concert, take part in one of several festivals, catch a Rockies game and more without needing anything more than a light jacket. Learn more about what you can do get out of Denver during different times of the year and how best to spend your summer with our best time to visit Denver guide . 

Denver is a car-first city but has become much friendlier to people on feet, bikes, and other alternative modes of transportation. The main, and most cost effective, method of getting around Denver are the trains and busses of Denver’s Regional Transport District , known locally as RTD .

You can utilize both Lyft and Uber in Denver . Unless you’re far outside the city, it’s easy to hail a rideshare and get where you need to go quickly.

You can call a cab or taxi for quick trips around Denver if you’re not into ridesharing programs.

There are several electric scooters scattered throughout Denver that you’re able to ride with a smartphone and credit card. Denver does have strict rules regarding scooter use:

• Scooters must use bike lanes.
• If there are no bike lanes and the posted speed limit is 30 or under, scooters must ride on the road with a speed limit of 15 mph.
• If there are no bike lanes and the posted speed limit is above 30 mph, scooters must ride on the sidewalk with a speed limit of six mph.

If you aren’t going far from your hotel or rental, a bike may be the best option to move around Denver quickly and at a low-cost. There are several bike lanes in and around Downtown Denver that give you quick passage along city streets. Denver offers several bike-renting venues to get rolling.

Read More: The 7 Best Bike Rides in Denver

Denver Bcycle

If you only need a bike for a quick trip, you can try Denver Bcycles located throughout the city. Simply follow the instructions at any Denver Bcycle dock to get going. Bcycle does require a credit card.

Travel Tip on Getting Around

Rush hour in Denver lasts approximately from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m., though traffic can be gridlocked nearly all hours of the working day. Be careful when planning your trips and schedules by considering commuter rush hour.

A Tip About Altitude and Humidity

Denver is in a semi-arid region and as the nickname implies, is around a mile above sea level. Those two factors mean Denver is dry and there isn’t much oxygen. The lack of moisture and altitude can cause issues like dehydration and altitude sickness .

When visiting Denver drink plenty of water, wear plenty of sunscreen, take your time if you’re feeling dizzy or winded, and bring skin lotion for dry skin. You can purchase supplements for the high altitude, but the efficacy and composition of some supplements is questionable. It’s great if you want to see what Denver has to offer but be smart about the altitude or you could ruin your trip.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

• Trouble sleeping
• A mild or severe headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath

Usually altitude sickness will stop as your body adjusts, but the following severe symptoms may require a visit to the local ER:

• Severe respiratory problems including loss of breath even at rest
• Tightness in the chest
• Fainting and loss of consciousness
• Loss of coordination

If anyone is exhibiting the above symptoms it is important to seek medical attention. Occurrences of severe altitude sickness at a mile high are rare, but they can and do happen.

If you’re in Denver, you have several choices of things to do . The three main activities enjoyed in the Mile High City are trips to public parks and local outdoor attractions; the thriving food and microbrew scene; and the unique museums and landmarks of the city . There’s much more to do, but these three activities highlight the city’s strengths. Several parts of Denver are home to multiple attractions and things to do so don’t worry if your specific want or need isn’t listed – Denver probably still has it.

If you’re booking right now and need three great things to try:

• Catch a live show at the beautiful Red Rocks Amphitheater .
• Journey to Lower Downtown (LoDo) for great eats, some local brews, and a Rockies game.
• Take a walk around Denver Botanic Gardens and accompanying Cheesman Park.

There’s much more to do in Denver than we can write in this overview. Check out our article on things to do in Denver for a more detailed guide and what you can do in the Mile High City the rest of the year.

Denver is a primary starting point for plenty of nearby adventure in the Rocky Mountains or along Colorado rivers. Most will need to rent a car to get out of the city though RTD offers shuttles to the mountains and other nearby destinations during different parts of the year. There’s even a ski shuttle to take you directly from the airport to nearby skiing hotspots .

When it comes to the culinary scene, Denver has a fantastic variety of food and excellent locally-brewed craft beer to wash it down with. You can get everything from Asian-fusion to pub grub, but Denver is home to a couple specialties.

If you want the best local eats, you’ll need to try green chili and a good old-fashioned steak. For green chili your best bets are El Tejado a bit south of downtown, Senor Burritos in the upcoming Baker neighborhood, or any Sam’s No. 3 location. Denverites agree that green chili is best enjoyed in a breakfast burrito.

There are several excellent steak choices but if you want a historical experience venture to Buckhorn Exchange which has been a Denver institution since 1893. Other popular steakhouses include Fogo de Chao Brazilian , Shanahan’s , and Urban Farmer .

Then there’s the beer. Because Denver’s microbrew scene is bursting at the seams, it’s difficult to name individual breweries to check out so we’ll use neighborhoods instead. For the best choices of local craft beer try LoDo, Highland, River North (RiNo), or Capitol Hill. The most popular breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company , Breckenridge Brewery , and Rock Bottom Brewery.

For a unique experience, you can head to Coors Field to check out Blue Moon brewed onsite while catching a Rockies’ game.

If you’re more of a whiskey lover check out Stranahan’s Whiskey and the accompanying free tour.

If you're on a budget, there are still plenty of options to eat at. In and around downtown cheap-eat destinations include Tocabe , Pete’s Kitchen, Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs , and Atomic Cowboy . Many Denver restaurants also offer a happy hour or late-night discounts so use your smartphone to see what’s available on the cheap near you.

The downtown Denver area is no New York City or Chicago , so you don’t need to worry about getting too overwhelmed with locations and where to stay. If you’re trying to see as much of the downtown Denver area and the things to do within it, you can book a hotel or rental in several neighborhoods in and around downtown .

Popular downtown or adjacent neighborhoods include Downtown Denver, LoDo, RiNo, Highland, Five Points, Washington Park, and Capitol Hill. Most neighborhoods within Denver city limits are only a quick bus or rideshare away from each other so you can book your hotel in LoDo and still easily see downtown and Capitol Hill too. To learn more about the individual neighborhoods and what they have to offer, check out our guide to the top neighborhoods to explore in Denver .

Denver is also a sprawling city with many suburbs. Not all these suburbs will be close to each other like the neighborhoods above. If you’re staying in a Denver suburb or looking for attractions outside the city be certain you take more time to figure out travel arrangements before booking.

Denver public transportation and rideshares can get you anywhere around the city but considering the Denver metro area is seven individual counties, be smart about booking near where you need to be outside of the city. 

If you are staying within the city limits you can choose both rentals like Airbnb or a traditional hotel for a great stay, Denver is loaded with several great options for different tastes, group sizes, and locations so whether you stay at a hotel or rental depends on your preferences and needs. Prices for both are similar though rentals tend to be cheaper for extended stays. The further away you get from downtown the less rental options you have though all Denver suburbs have hotel and motel-style accommodations.

Most people that fly to Denver arrive at Denver International Airport (DIA) Like most cities, DIA is several miles from the heart of the city, but DIA provides transportation right to Union Station in the LoDo neighborhood on the University of Colorado A-Line . DIA also provides shuttles to car rental lots to start your Denver journey.

Car Rentals

If you are arriving in DIA, you have several rental options on airport property including big names like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise. You can book your rental directly at the airport after arrival, but it’s recommended you book by phone or online before you arrive. As mentioned above DIA offers complimentary shuttles to rental lots. You might be able to find cheaper rental options outside of airport property, but you will need to take public transportation or a rideshare to get further into the city.

Free Attractions and Events

Many Denver events and attractions will cost you a few bucks , but there are also several things you can check out without spending a single penny.

All Denver public parks are free and open year-round and during the summer some parks show free movies.

If you're a fan of tours many of the below are free or inexpensive:

• Denver Public Art Tour (summer)
• Denver Mint
• Colorado Sports Hall of Fame
• Colorado State Capitol Building
• Distillery/Brewery tours

Many Denver attractions including the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and the Botanic Gardens offer free admission days during the summer. These dates change yearly so do an internet search to find which days are free for which attractions.

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16 things to know before visiting Denver

Jul 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Get prepared to dive into Denver with our local tips on what you need to know © Cavan Images / Getty Images

When I first moved to Denver, I came on a whim – my only experience of the city was a brief weekend during a cross-country road trip. But after bouncing from coast to coast and across the southern border for years, I figured Denver would be a good place for a short-term stint.

Almost 15 years later, I’m still here and I have no plans to move. What I’ve found in Denver is an unexpected urban gem: a fast-growing city of locals and newcomers, revitalized neighborhoods and a rich cultural landscape.

The sunny days and outdoorsy ethos are an integral part of life here – people walk and cycle around the city, and green spaces dot the landscape. And, oh those mountains overlooking it all! Here's what I think it's most important for you to know about Denver before your visit.

1. Plan on a long weekend

Colorado’s biggest city buzzes with activity – it has a good mix of museums, theaters and sports arenas plus a hopping restaurant and nightlife scene. Choose a couple of things to do each day, including time to wander, and a long weekend should be plenty of time to get a sense of the city; it'll also leave you wanting to come back for more.

2. Pack layers

Though Denver’s weather is relatively mild year-round, it can change on a dime…snow melts quickly and summer evenings can become downright chilly. Bring layers, including a fleece and a warm hat, to stay comfortable. A pair of closed-toe shoes is a good idea too.

3. Experience the city on foot, bike and bus

Denver’s traffic can be onerous and parking can be expensive, especially downtown. Skip the rental car and navigate the city by foot, bike or public transportation . Most of the city’s sights are within a few miles of each other, which makes riding a bike or taking the bus easy.

They’re affordable too – day passes on Denver’s RTD bus lines are just $6 per day (free for kids under five) and Lime bikes cost a dollar to unlock and then run at $0.15 per minute.

4. Expect extra restaurant fees

Since Covid hit, Denver restaurants have increasingly added a pre-tax "cost-of-living fee" to diners’ bills to supplement staff wages. Often, it’s directed to non-tipped kitchen staff but sometimes it’s split amongst everyone. So should you still tip? In general, if the fee is 12% or less, a gratuity is still expected and very much appreciated.

5. Book (most) sporting event tickets in advance

Denverites take their big sports seriously with five professional teams calling it home. Tickets aren’t cheap and can sell out quickly, especially to the Broncos , Nuggets and Avalanche so be sure to buy those as soon as you know you’re headed to town. If you'd rather play it by ear, you can typically score decent same-day seats to a Rockies or Rapids game.

6. Ditto for big hit shows

Big ticket shows come to the impressive Red Rocks Amphitheater and Denver Performing Arts Complex (DPAC) every year and seats go fast. Peruse their websites before you arrive – if there’s a show you don’t want to miss, snag tickets early.

Otherwise, you can sometimes find last-minute tickets, especially for weeknight performances. If you don’t mind a gamble, try for rush seats at DPAC – tickets sold directly from the box office on performance day at a significant discount.

7. Budget extra time at the airport

One of the biggest and busiest airports in the world, Denver International Airport (DIA) takes a little extra time to navigate. A multi-year, billion-dollar upgrade to its main terminal, though, means navigating construction in the ticketing and security checkpoint areas. Allow for more time than your local airport, especially on the outbound flight, until it’s completed in 2028.

8. No need to dress up, even when you’re out on the town

Casual dress rules in Denver – a T-shirt, jeans and puffy jacket are the unofficial uniform. If you want to dress things up, wear a button down shirt and your nicest sneakers. No pressure though!

9. Drink the local brew

With over 150 craft breweries in the Denver metro area, local beer is pretty much the go-to drink, often sipped and savored like wine. So, if you enjoy beer, join the craft crowd. And if you must drink a mass-produced brew, make it a Coors. It’ll sting locals a little less.

10. Enjoy happy hour eats

Denverites take happy hour eats seriously and many high-end restaurants comply by offering incredible deals on small plates, an affordable way to eat gourmet. Go early to get a table – typically around 4pm Monday to Thursday.

11. Tread lightly when talking about politics

Coloradans value courtesy but can have strong, vocal opinions if pushed, especially on their home turf. Sure, Denver is one of the state’s liberal hubs, but opinions can run the gamut in this purple state. Be respectful and don’t assume people share your opinion.

12. Yes, you can smoke weed...but there are rules

The skunky-sweet smell of weed has become commonplace in Denver since recreational marijuana was legalized in 2012. As long as you’re over 21, it’s easy to partake as long as you follow the rules:

• Buy from a dispensary – they are the only businesses licensed to sell cannabis products. And with close to 200 in Denver, they’re easy to find. Bring your ID and cash (credit and debit cards aren’t accepted).
• Smoking marijuana in public is illegal, including parks, sidewalks and concert halls. Instead, partake in private or in places like a 420-friendly hotel or marijuana social club.
• You can only use weed in specially designated vehicles, like those on cannabis tours. It’s illegal to smoke it or have an open container of it in your car – think of it as alcohol and keep the container shut until you get where you’re going
• Don’t drive if you’re high. You could really hurt someone and face a DUI charge too. Take an Uber or taxi instead. For a deeper dive on everything cannabis, check out the Colorado Pot Guide .

13. Acclimate to the elevation

Sitting 5280 feet above sea level, it’s common for visitors to the Mile High City to experience altitude sickness. Symptoms are typically mild but can include light-headedness, slight headaches and fatigue.

Take it easy the first couple days to give yourself time to acclimatize to the elevation; staying hydrated helps too. If you experience severe nausea, dizziness and continued headaches, consult a doctor and/or get to a lower altitude.

14. The sun is no joke

Denver is one of the sunniest cities in the county, enjoying about 300 days of sunshine each year. Add to that the high elevation (which enhances the sun’s intensity) and you’ve got a recipe for a nasty sunburn. Cover up, slather on sunscreen, and consider wearing a billed hat.

If you’ll be exercising or walking a lot, copy the locals and carry a refillable water bottle. You’ll save cash (not to mention the environment) and stay hydrated.

15. In summer, beware of the hail

Colorado’s Front Range lies in the heart of "Hail Alley," where the nation’s highest number of hailstorms occur. Take cover if one hits! In 2017, a storm of baseball-sized hail hit metro Denver, causing a record-breaking $2 billion in damages in just minutes (including totaling my beloved blue Subaru!).

16. Tent cities are a thing

Tent cities or collections of makeshift shelters are a common sight in and around downtown Denver, and are a reflection of the city’s ongoing homelessness crisis. While these unhoused communities don’t necessarily pose a safety problem to passersby, the people living there are particularly vulnerable to issues like drug abuse and mental health crises.

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The World on my Necklace

A Travel Blog by Katie Chavez

The Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary

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How would you like to spend 3 days in Denver? If it is a destination you haven’t previously considered, let me change your mind with this detailed Denver Itinerary.

Denver. The Mile High City. The gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountains and a city with more sunshine days per year than Florida (and not a lot of humidity – thank the Lord).

Denver was once home to Wild West sensibilities – steakhouses and cowboys – but now it is more like the Austin or Portland of the Rockies. These days, Denver is hip and happening and is a must for any Colorado itinerary .

Denver may not be an obvious choice when looking for a U.S. City to visit, especially next to the likes of San Francisco, Seattle , Chicago, New York, etc. but Denver has so much to offer a visitor.

Especially a visitor who, like me, loves good beer and outdoor adventures. You should definitely visit Denver, and 3 days in Denver is the perfect taster.

With its amazing and inventive beer, a young and vibrant population, some of the best Mexican food outside of Mexico, loads of biking and hiking trails, a downtown full of historic red brick buildings, and a world-class outdoor concert venue nestled amongst striking red rocks, I’m pretty sure you are going to love Denver.

It was really hard to narrow it down, but I have put together a three-day itinerary for what I consider to be the perfect long weekend in Denver, which includes all of my favorite things like craft beer, delicious food, and lots of outdoor time.

This three days in Denver itinerary also covers some of Denver’s best neighborhoods to visit .

If you make it a week you will be able to head into the mountains as well for a few days of touring around, or use Denver as a base and do some day trips.

Colorado really is an incredibly beautiful state that is home to a vast wilderness of stunning mountains and charming mountain towns , including my favorite, Telluride .

Hold on to your seats folks, and get ready to get excited to spend 3 days in Denver!

The Best Denver 3 Day Itinerary

Check out my interactive Denver map here to help plan your Denver Itinerary.

Denver Itinerary Day One

Morning – downtown and larimer square.

Start your day off reasonably early with breakfast at a Denver Institution, Snooze, in historic Union Station.

After you have stuffed yourself with their famous pancakes, Eggs Benedict, or whatever else you chose from their extensive menu, it’s time to explore LoDo – or Lower Downtown for you out-of-towners.

Make sure to marvel at the beautifully restored Union Station before you leave, and head to another Denver institution, Tattered Cover, an independent bookstore in Union Station.

Next head to Larimer Square to check out the stores there, but mostly to ogle the restored red brick warehouses strung with fairy lights that are now home to various stores, restaurants, and bars.

Heading further into downtown, walk or catch the free bus down the pleasant 16th Street Mall, where there are street performers in summer.

Don’t miss the interactive Museum of Illusions , one of the fun museums in downtown Denver you add to your Denver Itinerary. Be prepared to take lots of mind-bending photos!

If you want to do any shopping during your visit, this is the place to do it. At the other end of downtown are Civic Center Park and the State Capitol which you can visit on a free tour .

There are loads of options for lunch but I would recommend grabbing some excellent Mexican food at either Illegal Petes, D’Corazon, or Rio Grande – which is famous for its outdoor patio and giant frozen margaritas. 

If you find yourself in Denver on a Wednesday or Thursday between mid-April to mid-October, check out Civic Center Eats at Civic Center Park – a gathering of food trucks with seating and live music, where you can get anything from tacos and arepas through to Southern BBQ and nitro ice cream. Mmmmmm.

Afternoon – Hit a Bike Trail

After a morning of awesome eats, it’s time to burn it off. Grab a city bike from one of the many bike docking points around the city and hit one of the bike trails that follow the river.

I recommend the Cherry Creek trail or the South Platte River trail from Confluence Park. 

Denver may not be by the sea like San Francisco, or on a lake like Chicago , but I think seeing a raging, wild river that flows through the heart of the city is pretty special.

Stop along the way to rest in the shade on the river banks or one of the many green spaces around the city – Denver summers are hot!

If you are feeling brave, wade into the waters of the South Platte River at Confluence Park to cool off, then sit in the sun to dry off on the small beach.

For you outdoor adventure lovers, don’t miss the giant REI just across the river from the park which has its own climbing wall and you may even be able to try out a kayak on the river if you time it right.

After a busy day, you will probably want to chill out for a bit back at your accommodation before heading out to dinner.

Evening – Brewery Hopping and Street Art in RiNo

Before dinner, walk around the River North Arts District (RiNo) checking out all the wonderful street art and murals in this area – there is so much!

Head to Larimer Street and Walnut Street between 26th and 31st to see the highest concentration.

After your street art wanderings, hit up one of the food halls that Denver is famous for, for dinner – Denver Central Market and Zeppelin Station are both great choices and also have bars.

After dinner, it’s time for some brewery hopping! In RiNo my favorites are Great Divide Brewing Barrel Bar, Ratio Beerworks, Black Shirt Brewing Co., and Our Mutual Friend Brewing.

If sour beer is your thang (if so, we should be friends), then don’t miss Goed Zuur – a sour beer and cheese restaurant in nearby Five Points.

If you want to visit some Denver breweries that are further afield and to avoid driving while under the influence, you can book with a limo service offering brewery tours .

Denver Itinerary Day 2

Morning – washington park and pearl street.

Your second day in Denver begins with breakfast in Old South Gaylord where you can get great coffee and pastries at Devil’s Food Bakery. Wander this pleasant shopping district then make your way on foot or by bike over to Washington Park – or Wash Park as it is known by Denverites – for a walk.

It takes about an hour to walk around pretty Wash Park, where there are views over to the Rocky Mountains and a couple of lakes. The park is a peaceful spot that is popular with locals and you will see lots of them running and power walking around the park on sunny mornings.

From Wash Park, head to another pretty shopping precinct, South Pearl, where you can browse the boutique shops, and then grab lunch at Kaos Pizzeria which does some of the best pizza in Denver, or grab delicious Australian-style rotisserie chicken and sides from Chook.

If you are visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the weekly Farmers Market  in the warmer months.

Afternoon – Meow Wolf!

In the afternoon, head to Meow Wolf – an art installation and experience like no other. Even if you don’t have kids with you, don’t miss Meow Wolf. It’s hard to explain the amazingness of Meow Wolf but it is like traveling to a dream world with different interactive experiences and rooms within.

Go and find out what Meow Wolf is all about for yourself.

Evening – South Broadway and Red Rocks

After freshening up back at your hotel, head out to South Broadway for dinner. South Broadway is full of eclectic shops, dive bars and so many great places to eat.

Go for excellent sushi at Go Fish, Sputnik for unique vegetarian eats, or gastro diner food at Punch Bowl Social where there is also an arcade and bowling alley. And d on’t miss the iconic Voodoo Doughnuts for dessert.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is the endpoint of your night if you planned in advance and got a ticket to an outdoor concert or movie there and believe me, you don’t want to miss this.

Red Rocks is a highlight of any Denver itinerary and is truly special. The sound quality is amazing and watching the sky turn pink and purple as the sun sets over the city is a fantastic experience.

If you aren’t able to attend an event at Red Rocks then head up there in the afternoon instead, to do a short hike, visit the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, and admire the views. It’s a truly beautiful spot whether you visit during the day or at night.

Denver Itinerary Day 3

Morning – outdoor adventure in golden.

Your last day in Denver will see you visiting one of my absolute favorite spots: Golden !

Golden is a historic gold rush town in the foothills of the Rockies that is surrounded by mountains and has a river, Clear Creek, running through it. It is one of my favorite mountain towns near Denver , and it is super accessible and easy to get to.

Grab breakfast at Bonfire Burritos – they do an awesome breakfast burrito – then it’s time to choose your own adventure!

There are a number of activities to get you out in nature here, including tubing the rapids of Clear Creek (don’t let the tame name fool you), hiking one of the trails around Golden , or mountain biking one of the many trails along the front range.

You can rent mountain bikes and tubes in Golden. Ask at the Information Center for more ideas and logistics.

Afternoon – Explore Downtown Golden

Once you are adventured out, head back into Golden for lunch at one of my favorite Denver restaurants, Sherpa House , for their delicious Nepalese/Tibetan buffet. It is very affordable and so tasty.

Or if pizza is more up your alley – check out Woody’s Wood-fired Pizza, which offers an affordable buffet with salad and their famous beer cheese soup as well as pizza. There are also a couple of excellent food halls in Golden – Tributary Food Hall and Market, and the Golden Mill.

The historic main street of Golden is a lively place for a stroll and there is a range of antique and second-hand stores to browse with all kinds of bric-a-brac. If you are visiting Golden on a Saturday in summer – visit their weekly farmer’s market.

If you are interested in mountaineering, make sure to visit the American Mountaineering Museum, or if you are into Coors Beer, you can tour the brewery (although there are MUCH better breweries in town where you can do tastings). 

Golden also has a few excellent little craft breweries so you could (should) spend a couple of hours trying out some of the inventive brews that Colorado is famous for – New Terrain is my favorite brewery in the Denver area with a wide range of inventive beers and a rotation of awesome food trucks.

Mountain Toad and Golden City Brewing are also worth checking out – both have pleasant beer gardens and delicious brews.

Evening – Dinner and Drinks in the Highlands

After freshening up (or taking a nap), it is time to head on over to the Highlands – Denver’s hipster capital and home to sooo many great places to eat and drink.

The Highlands is made up of a few great shopping and dining districts so choose one:

Highlands Square: A super cute district located around 32nd and Lowell that has awesome Detroit-style pizza at Blue Pan Pizza, awesome wings at Fire on the Mountain (they have vegan wings too), and the Highlands Farmers Market on Sundays in the summer months.

Berkeley/Tennyson Street: Another happening district with great shopping and tons of delicious restaurants and breweries. I love the well-regarded vegetarian restaurant Vital Root, the pasties at The Pasty Republic, local craft beer at FlyteCo and The Emporium breweries, and nearby Tocabe which has excellent Indian tacos.

And don’t miss The Denver Cat Company if you are a cat lover like me.

Sloan Lake/Edgewater: Walk around Sloan Lake, drink beer on the patio at excellent Joyride Brewing Company, grab Kiwi-style fresh fruit ice cream from Happy Cones, or other delicious offerings at Edgewater Public Market.

Lower Highlands (LoHi): If you want something closer to the city, head to LoHi where you can find the massive bar and restaurant with a roof terrace that is Avanti, Linger – the former mortuary turned eatuary, and famous ice cream from Little Man.

LoHi is also home to some GREAT breweries – make sure to visit Denver Beer Company, Zuni Street Brewing, and Little Machine. And don’t miss one of the best speakeasies in the country: Williams and Graham.

Other breweries nearby that are definitely worth checking out are Raices Brewing Company – which celebrates Latin food, beer, and culture, and Strange Craft – unassuming but home to some of the best beer in Denver.

Then it’s time to fly home and sleep for at least 24 hours to recover from your action-packed, beer-soaked long weekend in Denver!

So have I convinced you to visit Denver?

This is just a fraction of the things to do in Denver, I didn’t even mention gritty and exciting Colfax, affluent Cherry Creek, all the other awesome food halls to check out, boho Capitol Hill which is home to Molly Brown House and the Denver Botanic Gardens, quaint Olde Town Arvada, the Art District on Santa Fe, or happening City Park – which has free jazz on Sunday evenings in summer.

And all the best day trips from Denver that you could take – that’s a whole other post.

Then there are the sports events you could attend, all of the day hikes on the outskirts of the city, the museums downtown, and all of the weed you can smoke if you are that way inclined (it’s legal here!) – there is even a cannabis church .

There is so much to explore in Denver and the longer I am here, the more I realize this fact. It was an undiscovered gem for a long time but slowly and surely, people are starting to realize how cool it really is.

I will be releasing a massive list of my favorite things to do, eat, drink and see in Denver at a later date but I hope this 3 day trip to Denver Itinerary will help you in the meantime.

Viva la Denver!

Planning Your 3 Days in Denver

Where to stay in denver.

When it comes to where to stay in Denver, I would recommend LoDo or the Highlands for ease of access to the city and beyond.

If you are looking for self-contained accommodation, here are my top picks for affordable, highly rated, and well-located options in Denver:

• City Park One Bedroom
• LoHi Garden Level Apartment
• Urban Refuge Carriage House

I really love Denver’s historic hotels, and I recommend staying in the Brown Palace Hotel which is supposedly haunted, the beautifully appointed The Crawford Hotel in Union Station, or the regal Oxford Hotel – all located in downtown Denver.

Other great hotel options in Denver include the luxurious design hotel – The Ramble Hotel , and the affordable and light-filled Element Denver .

For a more budget-friendly option, stay at Hostel Fish , or Ember Hostel , both of which are boutique hostels with gorgeous decor and a great location. 

If you have ever wanted to try housesitting , there are always lots of listings on Trusted Housesitters in and around Denver. You will get 25% off your first year’s membership if you sign up with my link , but you can look at the available housesits without signing up.

How to Get To Denver

Denver has a well-served airport, DIA, which is the fifth busiest airport in the U.S., so a lot of visitors choose to fly into Denver, but you can also catch a bus to Denver , catch an Amtrak train, or drive there.

How To Get Around in Denver

Although there is public transport in Denver, everything is quite spread out. The easiest way to get around in Denver would be to hire a car, but alternatively, you can get around Denver by train and bus.

Uber and Lyft are also prevalent in Denver and you never have to wait long for a ride.

Getting from the airport to Denver’s downtown is easy. There is a train that connects the airport to Union Station in LoDo, with further trains branching out from there.

So, do you want to visit Denver now? And for all you Denverites and Denver lovers reading this – do you agree with my Denver Itinerary? What would your perfect weekend in Denver look like? 

If you liked this post, check out my other Colorado content:

• 14 Best Denver Suburbs To Visit and What to Do, Eat, and See There
• Ultimate Colorado Itinerary for an Epic Road Trip
• Fun Things To Do in Buena Vista, CO: One of My Favorite Mountain Towns
• 15 Best Colorado Hot Springs For True Hot Springs Enthusiasts
• 15 Fun Things To Do in Golden That Won’t Break the Bank
• Absolute Best Hikes in Golden To Work Up a Sweat
• 11 Mountain Towns Near Denver You Have To Visit (1 Hour or Less)
• 10 Best Hidden Gems in Colorado
• 15 Best Colorado Mountain Towns To Visit Anytime
• Tackling the Hike from Aspen to Crested Butte: The Best Hike in Colorado
• Experiencing Cannabis Culture in Denver with a Cannabis Tour
• Telluride: The Best Mountain Town in Colorado

48 Comments on The Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary

Great list but what about suggestions for upscale shopping around Denver?

Thanks Sharon. For upscale shopping head to Cherry Creek, I don’t know specifics because I don’t shop much but that is the right area.

Thank you for sharing. Exactly what I need to plan my upcoming 3 days trip in March. And those beer recommendations, you’re amazing! Thank you again..

No problem Lea! I hope you enjoy Denver 🙂

wow , this is so amazing and beautiful place for visiting. the pics of Denver should create curiosity to visit this . i am really inspired by your article. thanks for sharing this amazing article about perfect 3days Denver itinerary.

Best Experience that you have shared to us

Great ideas for Denver but as a 303 native, we don’t swim in the Platte. Nope! Way too polluted. If you want to get in the water, you go “up the hill” I70 West and go rafting or tubing in the hills. 🙂

I don’t swim in there either but I do paddle when it’s really hot. Tubing in Golden is more my speed

I love your blog and LOVE Denver… we live in Colorado Springs (previously Pagosa Springs) and so we visit frequently. We recently stayed at the new Catbird Hotel in the heart of the RiNo Art District… it was so much fun and so much to do… we did a video of our time there… check it out 🙂 https://youtu.be/jJZadKdZiMI

Thanks so much Luis – Denver is a great city. The Catbird looks cool, I will have to add it to my accommodation list. Thanks for sharing.

I’ve lived in Colorado 35 years and haven’t seen half the things you mentioned. I’m now encouraged to pin this and follow your guide for a weekend!! Thanks for reminding me how great colorado can be!!

Thanks Lisa! I’m glad it has inspired you

Very well-researched article. I have to been living in Denver for years now and not a single time that I regretted my decision to live here.

Thanks so much Jeff! The kudos always means more when it is from a local. I have enjoyed my time living on and off in Denver immensely, and I feel like there is still so much more to explore.

I just read the whole article about Denver, nicely written by you. It feels good, One more thing I want to say that all the photographs are equally good. Thanks for sharing your travel experience with us.

I loved when I visited Denver a few years ago. However, there is clearly so much more I need to do when I return based on this post! My dream is go to a concert at red rock amphitheater.

Hi Franny, I hope you make it to Red Rocks one day – I still haven’t been to a concert there myself but hope to in the future.

I had a long layover in Denver once so spent the day in the city, but would love to go back again and explore more! I love Colorado 🙂

I hope you make it back to explore more Kelly!

Colorado is one of my favorite places + I definitely didn’t get to explore it to the extent that I wanted to when I was passing through last year! Will definitely be keeping these places in mind for next time! <3

It’s one of my favorite places too, I hope you make it back there!

Denver looks amazing! I heard so much about it and haven’t got to see it for myself. I love the street art and hope to see it soon. Thank you for sharing!

Thanks Shany, the street art is great in Denver.

That mural in the River North Arts District is really pretty. Denver looks like a great city with lots to do. Would love to visit one day.

RiNo has some great street art. I hope you make it to Denver one day Tina

I used to really like Coors before I stopped drinking. It’d be such a fun tour!

Love your detailed itinerary for Denver. I like places with an urban- nature mix. Saving this post for my future trip!

Thanks Mayuri, I like cities with an urban-nature mix too and Denver definitely has that.

I’ve only been to Denver once for a couple of days and was not near enough. Definitely pinning this itinerary for future reference when I visit again. So much natural beauty and charming places to explore.

Thanks, I hope you make it back!

I LOVE Denver. I have been a few times but still feel there is so much more I need to see. The bike trails look awesome as do all of the breweries. I am dying to see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

It’s a fun city to spend some time in – I hope you make it back 🙂

Great post! I’ve actually never been to Denver but it looks amazing! Red Rocks Amphitheatre has been high on my bucket list!

Red Rocks is a definite Denver highlight!

I have never been to Denver but it looks very nice to visit! The site of Red Rocks is particularly stunning! Would love to experience a concert here!

Red Rocks is amazing, I haven’t been to a concert yet myself but I definitely will be once things get back to normal

Wow Denver has so much to offer! What an informative guide 🙂

Thanks Nina, there is definitely a lot on offer to see and do in Denver

Yes, you’ve convinced me! Biking on the trails and along the river appeals to me most. I hope to visit someday!

Biking the trails is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Denver

Denver is such a gorgeous city! I’ve visited before, but discovered a few new places from your blog that I have to check out next time I visit. Pinned & saved your blog for my next Denver trip.

Thanks Shelley, I am still discovering new stuff all the time too

Wow Denver looks like a cool place ..with so many options ..I loved the pic of street .

Thanks Madhu, definitely lots of options here!

This makes me want to go back to Denver! I’ve been a few times but for work or just the night before heading to Boulder or the mountains. From what I saw it’s a cool city a lots more I need to see. I’ve always wanted to attend a concert at Red Rocks!

It is a really cool city, and I really want to see a concert at Red Rocks too – still haven’t although I have been to movie on the Rocks a couple of times and that is great too 🙂

I think I would enjoy Denver with all its breweries! Definitely my kind of place. I remember a video U2 made – is that the same Red Rocks?

Hi Sharyn, I looked it up and U2 did do a live at Red Rocks movie in the 80s so yes it is 🙂

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Denver Itinerary [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the great things to do in Denver? Our ultimate 3 days in Denver itinerary has you covered!

Though you could easily spend weeks or months enjoying all that Denver has to offer, 3 days in Denver is enough to get a taste of this amazing city. 

With a thriving arts and culture scene and plenty of parks, museums, live music venues, and historic buildings, there is plenty to see downtown. 

And just outside the city, there are mountains, lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and more, just waiting to be explored. Denver is the central starting point for all sorts of activities in Colorado !

So if you’re wondering how to spend 3 days in Denver, this itinerary is for you. 

We’ll include all the best landmarks, museums, markets, and attractions downtown, and balance them out with a bit of nature and fresh air in the national parks. 

Modify the itinerary however you like, but this article is designed to give you an idea of how to spend the perfect weekend in Denver Colorado.

For more inspiration, check out our list of the 21 Best Things To Do In Denver!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning: Denver Botanic Gardens

Civic center park, colorado state capitol building, denver art museum, molly brown house museum, history colorado center, 16th street mall, larimer square, union station, craft breweries, day 2 morning: lookout mountain, day 2 afternoon: mount evans scenic byway and st. mary’s glacier, denver central market info, day 3 morning: red rocks park and amphitheatre, day 3 afternoon option 1: visit city park, other activities, day 3 evening: catch some live music, when is the best time to visit denver colorado, getting around denver colorado, best hostel in denver: hostel fish, best mid-range hotel in denver: the four seasons hotel, best luxury hotel in denver: the brown palace hotel, how to enjoy your 3 days in denver itinerary.

This itinerary will hopefully make your Denver trip planning run a little more smoothly.

Another thing to consider for your trip is the  Denver CityPASS .

If you’re planning on visiting most of the museums, gardens, and other attractions mentioned in this itinerary, the CityPASS helps you save money on the entrance fees.

You can choose which attractions you’re hoping to visit when you buy the pass, and you’ll get discounted entry fees. This is a great way to save a bit of money while exploring Denver!

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Denver

There is so much to see in Denver Colorado, so you won’t want to waste a second of your 3 days in Denver itinerary.

Luckily, most of the best attractions in the city center are close to each other so you can see them all on foot. However, public transport and Ubers are available if your feet get tired!

Spend the first day of your Denver itinerary exploring all that downtown has to offer.

You’ll see museums, parks, street art, breweries, historic landmarks, and more. Wear comfortable walking shoes, pack a bottle of water, and get ready for a busy day of sightseeing.

Read Next: Check out all of our favorite places to visit in Colorado !

The Denver Botanic Gardens are the perfect first stop for your Denver weekend itinerary.

With numerous landscaped gardens full of beautiful, colorful plants, stroll through here to enjoy some zen at the start of the day.

Check out the Japanese Gardens, the special exhibitions, and the public art displays.

After exploring the gardens, it’s a 35-minute walk, a 6-minute drive, or a 20-minute bus ride into the heart of downtown.

• Hours:  9 am – 4 pm daily
• Address:  1007 York Streek
• Cost:  $15 for adults, $11 for students and kids under 15

Day 1 Afternoon: Capitol Hill Area

This area is the heart of downtown Denver. Here you’ll find the famous Colorado Capitol Building as well as numerous museums, parks, and other attractions.

Everything in this area is best explored on foot. You don’t have to visit all of these museums and attractions, but they are all close to each other so you can pick and choose which places interest you the most.

Pop into any downtown cafe or restaurant for some lunch whenever you need a break from sightseeing.

Read Next: Spending more time exploring Colorado? Be sure to read our guide on all of the best things to do in Colorado Springs !

This sprawling green space with landscaped gardens is the perfect oasis of greenery in the midst of the Mile High City. Complete with fountains, gardens, statues, food trucks, and more, Civic Center Park acts as a communal gathering space for events and for leisure.

Visit the website  to check what’s on when you are visiting Denver! There are often concerts, fitness classes, festivals, and more.

Topped with an iconic, shimmering golden dome, the Colorado State Capitol Building is an impressive Colorado landmark.

Located at the end of Civic Center Park, you can admire the majestic building from the outside or go on a  free tour  of the inside to learn about the Colorado General Assembly.

• Colorado State Capitol hours:  7:30 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday
• Address : 200 E Colfax Ave
• Hours for free tours : 10 am or 11 am, Monday – Friday

Another highlight of downtown is the Denver Art Museum. If you’re an art lover, you’ll be amazed by all this museum has to offer.

With special art galleries dedicated to different themes, such as indigenous art, modern art, contemporary art, and more, there is lots to learn and admire at the Denver Art Museum.

Just next to the Denver Art Museum, you’ll also find the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art, as well as the Clyfford Still Museum. Art enthusiasts can check out all three art museums during their weekend in Denver itinerary.

• Hours:  10 am – 5 pm daily, close 9 pm on Tuesdays
• Address:  100 W 14th Ave Pkwy
• Cost:  $18 adults, $10 students/seniors/military, FREE for youth under 18

READ NEXT: Consider visiting another great Rocky Mountain city and read our post on all of the best things to do in Salt Lake City !

Formerly the home of Titanic survivor, Margaret Tobin Brown, this historic building was saved from demolition in the 1960s by the citizens of Denver.

Now, the  Molly Brown House Museum  celebrates philanthropy, activism, and history. Visit to admire the impressive building or to tour the exhibits inside.

• Address:  1340 Pennsylvania Street
• Hours:  10 am – 4 pm Tuesday – Sunday, closed on most holidays
• Cost:  $16 adults, $14 seniors/students/military, $12 ages 6-18 (prices are cheaper for Colorado residents

History lovers should also check out this interactive museum in Denver Colorado. The History Colorado Center showcases art, artifacts, stories, and exhibitions about the city, the state, and the American West.

Book your ticket online  to save $1 on admission!

• Hours:  10 am – 5 pm daily (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
• Address:  1200 N Broadway
• Cost:  $14 adults, $12 seniors, $10 students, $8 kids 5-15, FREE kids under 5

Heading further west? Check out this 3 Days in San Fransisco Itinerary.

Day 1 Evening: LoDo Area

Next on this 3 day Denver itinerary is spending the evening in the LoDo area. From Capitol Hill, it’s a 25-minute walk, a 6-minute drive, or a 20-minute ride on public transport.

“LoDo” refers to “Lower Downtown”, an unofficial neighborhood of the Mile High City. It is one of the oldest areas of the city and is full of historic sites and landmarks as well as plenty of restaurants and bars.

Here are some of the highlights that you should check out while exploring this historic part of Denver.

This mile-long pedestrian boulevard is the perfect place to spend an evening during 3 days in Denver.

16th Street Mall is packed with shops, restaurants, bars, street performers, and more. Simply walk through and people-watch, window-shop, or grab a cocktail and a bite to eat.

Some of the best places to eat in 16th Street Mall include Mellow Mushroom for stone-baked pizzas, Appaloosa Grill for burgers and live music, and The Kitchen for farm-to-table cuisine.

There are also lots of international eateries, breweries, and take-away food spots.

Read Next: Consider adding a day to explore all the great things to do in nearby Boulder !

Along 16th Street Mall you’ll pass Larimer Square, another must-see place on any Denver itinerary. As the oldest block in the Mile High City, it’s here where Denver began.

Full of historic architecture, twinkling lights, and more shops and eateries, Larimer Square is a highlight of visiting Denver. Hang out for a while or continue your sightseeing.

From Larimer Square, it’s just a 10-minute walk to Denver Union Station.

Union Station is possibly the most famous historic landmark in Denver. Not only is the station a transport hub, it’s a social and cultural hub for locals and tourists who visit Denver.

Visit Union Station to grab a cocktail, visit an arcade, see live music, or just meander around. Be sure to snap a photo of the outside of Union Station, as the historic building is one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

LoDo is home to lots of microbreweries that specialize in craft beer. While exploring this area of downtown Denver, stop in a few of them to grab a flight of craft beer or some food.

Top breweries in the area include The Sandlot Brewery, Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery, and Wynkoop Brewing Company.

You could also embark on a craft brewery tour if you want to learn more about the local businesses and the art of making craft beer. This  guided brewery walking tour  covers all the best spots in the LoDo area.

Day 2: Head into the Rocky Mountains

One of the best things about visiting Denver is its close proximity to the Rocky Mountains. Fresh air, lush forests, tumbling waterfalls, and jagged mountain peaks are just outside the city center.

Start day 2 of your perfect weekend in Denver itinerary with a day trip into the mountains. Even if you’re tired from the previous day of sightseeing, take advantage of the gorgeous nature near Denver and get out for some hiking and exploring.

This is a good day to rent a car if you haven’t already, however, there are tour options available for those without a car.

Located just a 30-minute drive west of central Denver, this is one of the closest mountains to the city. There is no direct public transport to Lookout Mountain. However, you can take a  combination of public buses and trains  to get there, or just take an Uber.

Once you arrive, this mountain offers a beautiful lookout over the Mile High City and its surroundings. In addition to the lookout, there are 110 acres of parks, trails, and attractions up here.

Go mountain biking, rock climbing, or hiking in the wilderness. Or visit the Nature Center to learn about the local plants and wildlife. Whether you just check out the views or spend some time enjoying nature, this free space is a highlight of any Denver trip.

If you have more time, consider trying a fun road trip near Denver !

Continue on exploring the nature outside Denver Colorado by heading for the  Mount Evans Scenic Byway.

This winding alpine drive takes you through the Colorado Rockies and is known as the highest paved road in North America. If you aren’t scared of heights and you love dramatic mountain views, definitely drive along some or all of the route.

From the starting point of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway near Idaho Springs, it’s about a 30-minute drive to  St. Mary’s Glacier . This frozen lake and snowfield is an easy day trip from Denver. In summer, the lake isn’t frozen and is surrounded by green forests.

Either embark on a hike near the glacier, go fishing, or just admire the scenery.

If you aren’t planning on renting a car when you visit Denver, you can still venture out to the Rocky Mountains.

Book a  day tour on Get Your Guide , which includes transport to and from Denver, a guided hike up St. Mary’s Glacier, lunch, and a visit to geothermal pools.

Day 2 Evening: River North Arts District

After exploring the mountains, head back into town for another fun night out. Tonight you’re heading to the River North Art District (RiNo for short).

Full of art galleries, cool street art, coffee shops, jazz bars, craft breweries, delicious food, live music, markets, and more, the RiNo Art District is a hip and unique place to hang out.

The streets in this area boast some of Denver’s best street art, so be on the lookout for cool murals while exploring. You could even book a  Graffiti Tour of Denver  to have a local show you where the most amazing street art is.

Another highlight of the River North Art District is the  Denver Central Market . This spacious gourmet food hall is home to local vendors that offer amazing food and a cozy ambiance.

From pizza and burgers to handmade chocolates and ice cream, to grain bowls, poke bowls, and more, eat to your heart’s content at the Denver Central Market.

Read Next: Check out some of the best day trips from Denver !

• Address:  2669 Larimer Street
• Hours:  8 am – 9 pm (closes at 11 pm on weekends)

Between the galleries, the art, and the food, this area is the perfect place to spend the second evening of your 3 days in Denver itinerary. Check out the  RiNo Art District website  for events in the area.

Day 3: Red Rocks Park and Colorado Rockies OR More Downtown Denver

On the last day of your perfect weekend in Denver, it’s time to hit any attractions that you may have missed. Spend the morning at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and park, a famous spot in Denver.

Then for the rest of the day, either continue exploring downtown or head out into Rocky Mountain National Park if you’re itching for more time in nature.

Whatever activities you choose, savor the last day of your Denver weekend trip!

Grab breakfast downtown and then head out to this iconic Denver landmark.

Built into an ancient red sandstone rock face, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is stunning to look at and is an essential part of Denver’s community.

This open-air amphitheater hosts festivals, concerts, and events, and you can  see what’s playing on the website .

Check out the famous amphitheater before hitting the trails.

Red Rocks Park has a few hiking trails where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the surrounding nature.

The  Trading Post Trail  is short and easy at just 1.6 miles. This loop brings you past all the best rock formations.

The  Red Rocks Trail  is a more challenging, 6-mile hike that heads into the nearby Matthew Winters Park.

Embark on a hike or just check out the park and the nearby Trading Post, Visitor Center, and Colorado Music Hall of Fame.

• Hours:  Park opens one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset (amphitheater hours vary depending on season and performance dates)
• Address:  18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison
• Cost:  Free, unless you’re attending a performance

The last afternoon of your Denver itinerary can either be spent in the city or in nature, it’s entirely up to you.

If you don’t have a car and you’d rather stick close to the city, spend the afternoon enjoying City Park. 

This giant green space in Denver is home to many attractions, as well as lakes, picnic areas, tennis courts, and walking trails. 

It is also home to the  Denver Zoo  and the  Denver Museum of Nature and Science , both of which are incredible and fun for the whole family. 

Day 3 Afternoon Option 2: Rocky Mountain National Park

Another option for your afternoon is heading into Rocky Mountain National Park for more outdoor adventures. 

This option is ideal if you have a car, as the park is about 1.5 hours outside the city. Once you arrive, you are spoiled for options in terms of activities. 

There are lots of stunning hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. 

Lots of great trails begin at Bear Lake, which is a beautiful sight just by itself. From here you can choose to walk the flat and easy  Bear Lake Trail  which is less than 1 mile long, or you can hike further to other nearby lakes. 

Hiking from  Bear Lake to Emerald Lake  is a 3.6 miles long trail that passes 4 beautiful alpine lakes. This trail is moderate in terms of difficulty and has gorgeous views. 

The  Alpine Ridge Trail  is a steeper trail with amazing views, and  Alberta Falls Trail  is short but leads to a majestic waterfall. 

Those looking for more of a challenge can try the  Deer Mountain Trail , a 6.2-mile hike that is steep and offers mountain views. 

Another fun activity to try in Rocky Mountain National Park is ziplining. Soar over the treetops and get an adrenaline rush while soaking in those stunning mountain views!

Organized by Denver Adventures,  this zip lining tour  covers more than 6,000ft of ziplines through the Rocky Mountain pine forest. The views are breathtaking, and the customer reviews are all positive. This is a super fun addition to any 3 day Denver itinerary.

Other fun things to do in the park include fishing, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and more. 

Visit the  official national parks website  for more info and ideas about Rocky Mountain National Park. 

If your travels are taking you to the Pacific Northwest, be sure to check out The Perfect 3 Days in Seattle Itinerary !

After an epic day, finish off your weekend in Denver itinerary with a bang. Check out the live music scene, as there are lots of fun venues scattered around the city. 

Some of the best live music venues in Denver include:

• Bluebird Theatre:  A cozy and intimate historic venue
• Lost Lake Lounge:  A dive bar featuring indie music
• Larimer Lounge:  A popular restaurant and bar that turns into a dance floor for concerts at night
• Nocturne:  For jazz music and cocktails
• The Black Buzzard at Oskar Blues:  A restaurant upstairs with bands playing downstairs
• Ogden Theatre:  A historic venue with big concerts and shows
• Your Mom’s House:  An independent live music venue that plays a huge variety of different music

Denver Travel Guide

Now that we’ve covered the ultimate Denver trip itinerary, here are some more travel tips like when to visit, how to get around, and where to stay.

The best time to plan a trip to Denver is usually shoulder season.

The shoulder season falls between April and May in the spring or September and October in the autumn.

These times of year have pleasant weather that isn’t too hot or too cold. There is also a drop in tourism compared to the busy summer season, so flight and accommodation prices are cheaper than normal. There are also fewer crowds!

However, if you’re planning a trip to Denver for skiing and snowboarding, of course, winter is a better time to visit. You’ll get lots of fresh snow on the slopes!

Summer is the peak travel season in Denver, so the weather is hot and sunny and amazing for outdoor activities. However, the crowds and bigger, and prices are higher.

So the best time to plan a Denver weekend getaway is in spring or autumn.

Getting around Denver Colorado is very easy and straightforward, whether you have a car or not.

If you’re flying into Denver International Airport , you can take the Airport Rail for $10.50 each way. It travels directly from the airport to Union Sation in downtown.

If you’re planning on renting a car, which is a good idea for a Colorado road trip or for venturing out into the mountains, you can rent one at the airport or in the city itself.

However, it is easy to explore Denver without a car. If you’ll be spending most of your Denver itinerary in the downtown area, it’s actually easier to  explore without a car .

Most of the attractions downtown are within walking distance of each other, and you won’t have to worry about parking if you’re exploring on foot. There is also a light rail and a bus service to help you get around, and Ubers and taxis are also available.

Check the  official Denver transport website  to plan your journeys around the city via public transport.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Denver Colorado

If you’re wondering where to stay in Denver, check out these recommendations that cover accommodation for all budgets.

There are plenty of convenient and affordable options near the city center so you can fully explore Denver in 3 days.

Hostel Fish  is located in a convenient spot near the 16th Street Mall, Coors Field, and Union Station. You can walk to all the best attractions on your Denver itinerary!

With a social atmosphere and lots of positive reviews on Hostelworld, this hostel is perfect for young travelers who want to save money and meet people.

There is a restaurant and bar on-site, as well as a tour desk to help you plan any tours or activities you may need.

The  Four Seasons Hotel  is a well-reviewed, good-quality hotel in downtown Denver. Co

Complete with a bar, pool, spa, fitness center, and comfy rooms, this hotel has everything you could possibly need for 3 days in Denver. It’s also reasonably priced, so you can enjoy a comfortable stay without spending a fortune.

The best luxury accommodation in Denver is the  Brown Palace Hotel . Located right in downtown, the Brown Palace Hotel is perfect for a trip to Denver because it is right near all the best attractions.

The rooms have a historic and elegant ambiance, and there is a spa and 3 restaurants on-site.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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3 Days in Denver: How to Plan a Perfect Weekend In Denver

Have you been thinking about taking a long weekend away? If you love nature sunshine, and eating and drinking your way through a city, you’re going to love spending 3 days in Denver. 

Denver, Colorado, the Mile High City, is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. But it’s also a thriving city full of interesting neighborhoods and a booming food and drink scene. Of course, getting out and seeing nature is a great way to spend your time, but there’s also a lot to see, eat and drink in this fabulous city. Denver offers more restaurants, bars, breweries, food markets, and cafes than even the most demanding foodie could wish for.

We have been to Denver at least five times in the past few years because Alysha has family in the area, and I had a few work trips to conferences in Denver. This past time, we spent a few weeks split between Denver and Boulder, exploring and eating and drinking our way through Denver and the surrounding area.

In this guide, I’ll take you through a complete 3 day Denver itinerary. I’ll suggest where to visit, where to eat and drink, and cover the basic logistics so you can plan an incredible long weekend in Denver, without wondering what to do or wasting your valuable time. 

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Important Note : this guide won’t take you outside Denver – there is so much to do there that there’s no need to head out. Of course, if you’re spending more than 3 days in Denver, then exploring Rocky Mountain National Park or Red Rocks is great, but I think there is more than enough to do inside the city limits to keep you busy. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay For 3 Days in Denver

If you haven’t booked a place to stay yet, you’re in luck. I’ve been to Denver several times in the last few years, and have a strong perspective about where you should stay to have the most incredible trip.

The two best areas to stay in Denver are RiNo (River North Art District) , a hip and happening district to the east of Downtown Denver, and LoDo (Lower Downtown) , which is perfectly located between Downtown Denver and RiNo.

If you’re into stylish boutique hotels, you’re going to love the options in RiNo and LoDo .

Want to Stay in a Stylish Hotel? Find the Perfect Hotel for your stay in Denver with our guide to the 10 Coolest Hotels in Denver

Here are three fantastic boutique hotels to look at for your trip.

The Maven Hotel (LoDo) : I have personally stayed here, and it’s fantastic. It’s in the same building as the Milk Market, with Huckleberry Coffee in the lobby (the best coffee in Denver), and it’s super central and walkable to pretty much everywhere.

The Ramble Hotel (RiNo) : Denver’s most aesthetically pleasing hotel; this is one of the best places to stay in Denver if you are always on the lookout for unique boutique hotels when you’re traveling. It was styled after the 17 th  Century French salons with bold Prussian blue feature walls and large airy windows. 

The Source Hotel (RiNo) : The Source Hotel is all about styled minimalism. You are even served a beer at check-in! It is connected to the Market Halls which is full of designer boutiques, vintage vinyl stores, and restaurants serving just about every cuisine you could imagine. The highlight, though, is the rooftop hot tub and plunge pool, perfect after a day of exploring.

The Complete Guide to a Perfect Long Weekend in Denver

Now, onto the meat (plant-based, if that’s your thing) of how to spend your time in Denver.

Denver Itinerary Day 1: RiNo

RiNo is the nickname of Denver’s River North Art District, an area full of food halls, hip art galleries, cool jazz bars, fine restaurants, bars and brewpubs. It’s urban chic with its industrial revival buildings and is an area to see and be seen. 

If you like renovated warehouses, exposed brick, and white-walled spaces, this is the place for you. 

With three full days ahead of you, here’s what I suggest you do on your Denver itinerary for the first morning.

After a leisurely breakfast, head over to Crema Coffee House on Larimer Street for that caffeine-fueled kickstart to your day. It’s a great place to start and grab breakfast, too, if you don’t want to make it yourself. 

Now you’re ready to hit the three great hipster food halls/markets of the area.

Denver Central Market offers amazing local food vendors selling everything from ceviche to ice cream in a fascinating historic building. 

Zeppelin Station is another of Denver’s trendy food halls that also highlights independent fashion and art makers. They also have the great Big Trouble Bar on the mezzanine. La Rola is a great stop for lunch here, with its out of this world Colombian cuisine that had us reliving our six weeks in Colombia. Definitely get an arepa (we got the plantain arepa and it was stuffed FULL of plantains) and a toston – a fried plantain topped with chicken, cheese, and a delicious spicy sauce.

At the Source Market Hall , you’ll find cocktails, flowers, boutiques, coffee and lots more in 45,000 square feet of historic market halls. 

Take your time wandering the streets of RiNO – there’s some truly AWESOME street art hidden away in the tight alleyways that connect the main thoroughfares here.

For example, these incredible Star Wars murals in the alleyway between Blake and Walnut St near Improper City Brewing.

Afternoon 

While you’re in RiNO, you should definitely do some exploring of the countless breweries, cideries and wineries in the area. This is an amazing place to go brewery hopping – there’s an almost unlimited selection of great places to grab beer, wine, cider, and more.

One of the top-rated breweries is Epic Brewing , which specializes in high alcohol content beer packed with flavor and with great names like Lunar Transit, Escape to Colorado and Chasing Ghosts.

Odell Brewing Company is another, where you can enjoy beer from 16 taps in two bars, half of them made in the 100-year-old building. They do 4oz pours if you’d like to sample a range without stumbling home for a nap.

Two more that caught my eye as we wandered the streets were Our Mutual Friend , which has a super colorful paint job and a cute patio to hang out on, and Improper City , which has a huge outdoor seating area.

For wine lovers, you have to go to Infinite Monkey Theorem . They actually make wine in “the back alleys of Denver” and sell it in bottles and cans. Check their website for tastings, and don’t forget to try the cider. The dry-hopped Sauvignon Blanc was our favorite.

Speaking of cider: Stem Ciders has a tasting room in RiNo, and they make some of my favorite cider in the country. . They have a huge collection of apple ciders with incredible flavors like hopped, pear, and my personal favorite, chile guava.

It’s amazing, and it’s a great spot to try cider for the first time. If you picture cider as the sickeningly sweet, syrupy stuff that rhymes with Langry Torchard, then you’re going to be blown away by Stem’s range of ciders, from dry and effervescent, like a sparkling wine, to semi-sweet, vibrant, fruity and even spicy! 

Day 1: Evening 

I recommend you stay in the area for dinner, and I have two amazing recommendations for you.

The first would be Work & Class with its relaxed atmosphere and Southern and Latin American menu. Delicious food, attentive staff, and a great selection of drinks and cocktails. No reservations, but they have deals for cocktails while you wait. Get there early unless you’re planning on sticking around for an hour or more.

Super Mega Bien is its sister restaurant across the street, and it’s arguably even better. Most of the menu is inspired by Mexican influences, and we really enjoyed the Cochinita Pibil (roasted pork that comes with rice, beans, and tortillas) and the shrimp curry soup. The desserts were pretty outstanding too – the flourless chocolate cake and the flan – YUM. We basically rolled out of there back to our Airbnb.

Celiac note : Both places have clearly labeled menus and knowledgeable staff. 95% of the menu at Super Mega Bien is gluten free. However, neither has a dedicated fryer, so things like pupusas and fried plantains are not safe for Celiacs.

For a nightcap (in case you ignored my advice and haven’t been drinking all afternoon), head to Millers and Rossi , a speakeasy cocktail bar that’s elegant, relaxing and unique.

Denver Itinerary Day 2: Highlands and Downtown

Highlands and Downtown together are both hip and historic. It’s here you’ll find the best bookstore in Denver, theaters, food stalls, elegant old homes, some of the best restaurants and bars plus the South Platte River and lovely parks.

Day 2: Morning 

After Day 1, you might want to sleep in, so let’s begin our second day with a later brunch. 

But first, coffee.

The best coffee in Denver, hands down, is at Huckleberry Roasters , which has two spots in Denver. One of them, their flagship , is close to where you’ll be brunching, so head there to start the day off right. Whether you’re looking for a crisp & clean single origin, or a smooth and creamy latte, they’ve got you covered.

Head over to Root Down , which is my favorite restaurant in Denver. Great ambiance, friendly staff, loved by the locals, and a great menu. They are always happy to produce vegan and gluten-free options. I’d say that brunch here is a must-do in Denver.

After brunch, check out some of the other LoHi (that’s Lower Highlands) hotspots.

Healthy and on-trend, Kombucha fermented tea is worth seeking out, and there’s nowhere better than American Cultures . Here, they specialize in combining Kombucha with ice cream, proving that it’s a combination made in heaven! The huge variety of Kombuchas they make are on tap, and the ice cream is locally made by Scrumptious and Sweet Action. American Cultures is super light and airy, and a must-visit. They’re closed now. So sad.

There are lots of tea drinkers out there, and Tetulia Tea Bar is for all those who love this ancient beverage. Sourcing their tea from Northern Bangladesh ( wow !), they are organic, fresh and ethically produced. The choice is immense: iced teas, bubble teas, tea sodas – tea like you’ve never experienced it before.

If you like ice cream (side note: who doesn’t?), Denver has a treat for you: Little Man Ice Cream . I would say it is the best ice cream in Denver, bar none. This is nostalgia in every scoop of each of its 20-something flavors. And for every scoop sold, they donate a “scoop” of essential food to the someone in need. You get to eat ice cream and feel good about doing it!

After all this eating and drinking, you’d better get a little exercise! 

So head off on a self-guided walking tour from LoHi (where you’ve just enjoyed ice cream) to Union Station. There are three places you should stop by on this Denver itinerary on the way. You know, for more eating and drinking to fuel your exercise.

The Germans like and know their beer, and Prost Brewing takes German beer very seriously. They source their ingredients from Germany and follow the traditional lagering brewing methods – they don’t make beer, they make bier. Whatever style you’d like to try, they have it.

Staying with the beer theme, the Denver Beer Co offers artisan beer at its finest. Small batches, carefully made, beautifully packaged. The taproom is a super cool space and has a spacious outdoor patio for good weather. ( Gluten free note : They only serve beer, so you won’t find any wine or cider to drink. It’s still a cool spot, and we spent a few hours on their outdoor patio. I can personally vouch for their water – it’s top notch. But my friends loved their beer, too.)

Denver is home to many parks, but none are better than Confluence Park on the banks of the South Platte and Cherry Creek. It’s a great place to walk, watch kayakers and get some great views of downtown Denver. Downtown Aquarium is also close by.

When you make it to Union Station, there are three spots to visit in the vicinity.

If you have read my guides to 3 days in Seattle or 3 days in Portland , then you might already know how much we LOVE independent bookstores . Tattered Cover is acknowledged as the best bookstore in Denver, and you browse its shelves for both new and used books. It has been supplying the book lovers of Denver for nearly 50 years and has become an institution.

By now, you might be ready for another dose of ice cream, and Mailbox Ice Creamery is there to satisfy that craving. Great flavors in a great building. You should definitely try one of their boozy alcohol shakes. A tequila shake? Yum!

To set you up for your return journey, drop in at Terminal Bar situated in what was once the ticket office of Union Station. Beautifully restored and historically accurate, a wonderful place to drink craft beer, enjoy a glass of wine, or sip a cocktail.

Day 2: Evening 

It’s back to LoHi for dinner and drinks! There’s only one option for you to choose from this time:  Avanti Food & Beverage .

Head to their spectacular rooftop for a pre-dinner drink and dinner. 

To eat, you have the choice of seven different restaurants there. Since so many of my readers and I are gluten free, I highly recommend Quiero Arepas , a 100% gluten free arepa joint. Get the queso arepa – stuffed with sweet plantains and fresh mozerella cheese – and the fried plantains topped with cheese and spicy sauce. It’s so good, we went back tice on our last trip.

Denver Itinerary Day 3: A Little of Everything 

You’ve got a busy day ahead for the last day of your 3 days in Denver, so you’ll need a good breakfast! 

Morning 

My favorite new discovery on our last foray to Denver is River and Roads Coffee . it’s east of RiNo, and north of City Park, and I’m not really sure what the neighborhood is called. But it doesn’t matter – you should go there to start your last day off.

They are 100% gluten free, but you’d never know unless I told you that going in. They have all sorts of baked goods, great coffee, and a full breakfast and lunch menu. The patio outside is a nice place to relax in the sun as you recover from the food coma you’re about to descend into.

But what should you order? Get. The. Breakfast. Fries. Alysha and I still dream about them. They start with sweet potato fries (you can get regular, but I never pass up the opportunity to get sweet potato fries), smother them in cheese, and then topped with bacon, tomato, a spicy aoli, and two sous-vide eggs. YES. PLEASE.

The donut holes and biscuit sandwich were also great, but not “swerve-off-the-road-because-I’m-daydreaming-about-the-breakfast-fries” great.

By now, it’s mid-morning, and you’re raring to go. Denver has beautiful parks, so I suggest you work up an appetite for lunch by exploring them! You’ve got three options (or fit in more than one with an early start): 

Head to City Park where not only are there two lakes, picnic sites and historical monuments, but you’ll also find Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature and Science . There are a lot of walking trails to explore too – it’s worth doing a loop around the lake while you’re here.

For your last afternoon in Denver, I’ve got a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure proposition for you. There are three cool neighborhoods that are a little bit off the beaten path that are well worth your time. You should pick one (maybe two) to explore this evening, and save the rest for next time (because I guarantee you’re going to want to come back to Denver).

The first would be Tennyson Street . Lining Tennyson you’ll find all sorts of boutiques, bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. We stayed in Berkeley Park on our last trip to try something new, and ended up really enjoying it. BookBar is a great little bookstore. Downpours makes awesome coffee. And Vital Root (FRIED CAULIFLOWER) and Revelry Kitchen , which happen to be next door to each other, are great spots to eat. But those four spots only scratch the surface – visit for yourself and discover a favorite boutique or new bar.

The second area you could explore would be Capitol Hill , where you’ll find the Colorado Capitol Building and Civic Center Park . The whole Cultural Complex – which includes the Denver Art Museum and Denver Public Library – is worth a walkthrough (and a visit for museum junkies, but we skipped it). Continue south down Broadway and you’ll find two great coffee shops – Amethyst Coffee and further away to the southwest, Copper Door Coffee Roasters . The latter is in a cool little complex that includes Board Game Republic , which would be a good place to spend an afternoon drinking and playing board games with friends.

The last area, which is a true wildcard, is to head even further south down to Platt Park . The reason we were down here is Quiero Arepas , who has a standalone restaurant here. But I fell in love with Steam Espresso Bar while we were here. Corvus Coffee Roasters is another great coffee stop, while Que Bueno Suerte is a good stop for happy hour and good Mexican food. The whole S Pearl Street stretch is lined with all sorts of cute boutiques and places to eat and drink, and is worth an afternoon.

Evening 

For dinner on your third evening, I am going to point you in the direction of The Denver Milk Market , another of Denver’s fabulous food halls with a mix of dine-in restaurants and take-aways. Chef-in-chief is Frank Bonanno, author and award-winning cook. 

He oversees a breathtaking array of food establishments all united in quality, and seeking to produce one thing in their customers – happiness! The perfect way to finish your last day in Denver.

Got more Time?

There you have it. And we didn’t once go out of the city! If you’ve got more time than a weekend in Denver, its surroundings offer so much more. If you’ve got some extra days, find time for… 

This Denver Graffiti Tour offers two hours of astonishing street art. You’ll find out how the art form has evolved and the effect it has.

Go on a food tour around Downtown Denver. Get behind the scenes at some of the best eateries Denver has to offer.

Denver is home to a lot of top sports teams, like the Colorado Rockies and the Denver Broncos , and going to a game is a great way to add to your Denver itinerary.

Red Rocks is nearby and hosts some world-class acts, you should try and catch a show at this famous venue. And the hiking is pretty good too!

The Rocky Mountains are stunning, and if time allows, you should take a day trip to the National Park . Or head there after for some camping! 

Boulder, Colorado is close to Denver and well worth exploring, with its galleries, museums and planetarium, not to mention fine cafes and restaurants.

Logistics for Planning a Trip to Denver

Before we get to the full itinerary, let’s talk logistics to set you up for an incredible trip.

First, A Little About the Mile High City

Denver is the capital of Colorado and lies in the South Platte River Valley between the High Plains and the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Colorado is pretty much in the middle of the country north-south and to the west of center, and Denver definitely has a western feel.

Founded in 1858, when gold was discovered locally, the area stayed popular because Denver became the supply center for the mines in the nearby Rockies. The railways came in the 1870s, and the city’s transformation began. 

The wealth of the city and its inhabitants can be seen in the beautiful Victorian architecture that still graces Denver, particularly in the historic Larimer Square area.

Today it is a thriving cool and relaxed city, with a great economy and growing population.

300 days of sun a year doesn’t hurt either! A fact that was a surprise to me when our Lyft driver casually dropped it, right before saying “don’t move here though it sucks there’s so much traffic and rent is crazy!”

Sorry, Mr. Lyft Driver, I’m from San Francisco and I can assure you that the rent isn’t THAT crazy.

And yes, it really is a mile high!

When is the Best Time to Visit Denver?

Spring and Fall have to be favorites when the temperature is comfortable. In summer, it doesn’t get too warm – you’ll find temperatures in the high 80s and low 90’s in July and August – but it’s a dry heat (I laugh everytime someone says this to me, but it’s true to an extent). 

Winter can be pretty chilly, but it’s also a beautiful city in winter, so just wrap up and continue enjoying what it has to offer! (Plus, there will be far fewer tourists.)

How to Get Around in Denver

From dia (the airport) to downtown .

Getting from Denver International Airport to Denver is pretty fast and straightforward. There is a dedicated airport rail system that will get you to Denver Union Station in just over half an hour, and of course, there are taxis that will take you the 23 miles as well.

Public Transportation Options in Denver 

Like most modern cities, the transport infrastructure is pretty good. There’s a light rail system with nine lines and 53 stations, buses, yellow cabs, plus Uber and Lyft. But much of what you want to see and do is likely in easy walking distance, and that’s what I’d do. It’s usually the best way to experience any city, especially when the weather’s good. 

I wouldn’t bother renting a car unless you’re spending more than 3 days in Denver and plan to head off into the mountains. There’s really no need.

I hope you have an amazing time in Denver – and if you follow this 3 day Denver itinerary, I know you will! 

Read Next: Related Denver Travel Guides

• Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado
• The 10 Coolest Hotels in Denver
• Gluten Free Denver: The Best Gluten Free Restaurants in Denver
• The Best Gluten Free Restaurants in Boulder
• A Complete Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary
• The Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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One Day in Denver: How to (Easily) Plan A Super Fun Denver Itinerary

last Updated: May 17, 2024 colorado denver

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to the Mile High City and planning to spend just one day in Denver? Follow this Denver itinerary for all the top sights and best eats! 

Although you’ll wanna stay a few days to devour everything in sight – I promise!

Before planning out this Denver itinerary, I honestly had zero clue as to how hip of a city it is. I kinda expected it to feel a bit like Portland, Oregon (which is one of my PNW faves) and maybe even Austin, Texas (just a little bit), but was blown away by all the color and charm. AND the food!

I actually visited a friend who lives in Denver a few years ago, but with all the day trips we took , I hardly had any time to actually explore within the city limits! This time around, I made sure to devote at least one day in Denver. 

And what a packed day it was!

Who knew the capital of Colorado was so colorful and cool, hip and trendy? There’s thriving craft breweries, tons of cultural attractions, a wild music scene (Red Rocks amphitheatre, anyone?!), and a hot culinary scene fit for any foodie. 

And plus, there’s phenomenal views of the Rockies , the best mountain range in America. No wonder it’s an extremely fun (and popular) city to live in! 

And yes, you really can see so much with just one day in Denver – I promise! The city’s the perfect size to explore for those with a short amount of time (just like Charleston!). And I can see it being quite a fun city to explore solo as well!

It’s also a great base for exploring the snow-capped Rocky Mountains and the red rocks of Colorado Springs (both nearby!). If you’ve got at least 2 days in Denver, I encourage you to get outta the city → here’s ten day trips from Denver to pick from!

Because of Denver’s high altitude, it’s also known as the Mile High City. And yes, as the city’s nickname suggests, Denver is approximately one mile above sea level. To put that in perspective, New York City is 33 feet above sea level and San Francisco is 52 feet above sea level, compared to Denver’s whopping 5,280 feet. 

Yup, you read that right: five THOUSAND and two hundred and eighty feet above sea level. 

Psst — Read my tips below to ensure a safe visit, as it’s located at a much higher elevation than you’re probably used to. And no one wants to suffer from headaches and nausea on their one and only day in Denver. 

When to Visit Denver:

Unlike certain parts of California (I’m looking at you San Francisco), Denver is lucky to experience all 4 seasons. But whenever you visit, you’ll probably get a fair bit of sunshine (as the city gets over 300 days of sun a year!). So bring those sunnies along — yes, even in winter!

SPRING AND FALL

Spring and fall are known to be the most popular times to visit the Mile High City. We chose to spend our one day in Denver in mid-October, hoping for some fall colors and cool, crisp air. Instead, it was in the low 80s and only a handful of leaves had changed colors. 

So much for my fall foliage trip! 

With that being said, it’s so hard to predict when autumn will come! And locals have told me that fall is actually quite short in Denver, so just plan to enjoy whatever weather you get (and don’t pack too far in advance).

Surprisingly, winters in Denver are pretty mild, so if you don’t mind some chilly weather and a tad bit of snow (just maybe!), a visit between November and March may be perfect for you. 

It never really reaches freezing temperatures during the day (unlike Banff National Park in Canada !), even during the coldest month of December (with an average daily high of 45 degrees F). And sunny, 60 degree days are not uncommon in winter – how awesome is that?!

However, don’t expect Denver to cure all your winter wonderland icicle dreams — head to Rocky Mountain National Park for that!

Summer isn’t crazy hot, humidity is low, and the evenings are cool and comfortable. Why such mild weather? The high altitude! I’d still bring a light jacket for nights since the mountain air can bring an unexpected crisp to it!

How to Get to Denver:

Denver really couldn’t be easier to access. And I mean it. (Unlike the San Blas Islands in Panam a → now, that was a doozy.)

Most visitors will arrive at Denver International Airport (DEN), a short flight no matter which coast you’re coming from(~2 hours from San Francisco ; ~3.5 hours from New York City ).

I was surprised to learn that DEN is the 5th busiest airport in the US, and 16th busiest in the world! Whoa! 

Local Tip: If you’re absolutely starving when you reach the airport, head to Root Down in Concourse C, one of Denver’s most beloved farm-to-table bistros. And just FYI — The original location is in Lower Highlands (LoHi) if you’re not hungry just yet. 

Little Man Ice Cream has a small outpost here as well, so you can be sure you’ll never go hungry in the airport. 

How to Get Around Denver:

City Transportation: There’s no intricate subway station in Denver like in NYC, but thankfully, there’s enough public transport to get around easily. There’s the free 16th Street Mall Shuttle (running up and down 16th Street – surprise, surprise), pedicabs around town (especially near Larimer Square), and even scooters available for use almost everywhere. 

We saw oh so many scooters! Just shows how fun and young Denver really is!

Car : Since we were taking a few day trips from Denver on our most recent visit, we had a car during our one day in Denver. Parking was never an issue, and we actually preferred being able to quickly head to places (plus it was pretty hot midday). 

However, if you’re planning to spend all your time in Denver, I honestly wouldn’t recommend renting a car. It’s not even 50% necessary, so why bother with the extra expense? And plus, we had to fork over unnecessary $$$ for overnight parking since our hotel had no cheap options. 

Walking : No access to a car?! Don’t fret in the least bit. You can easily walk (almost) everywhere, or take a quick Uber/Lyft between spots. I planned this one day Denver itinerary for those without a car, and included walking times between the different attractions.

How to Get from the airport to downtown Denver itself:

Getting from the airport to your hotel in downtown Denver couldn’t be easier. Like really, it’s so easy!

Option 1: Light Rail

Once you get off the plane, look out for the Light Rail train (it’s right near the new Westin Airport Hotel). And don’t worry, you won’t get on the wrong line (something I typically worry about the first time I’m arriving into a big city!). 

You’ll be taking The University of Colorado A Line (or simply the A Line) train, the only line at the airport. The train costs $10.50 per person, each way, and takes roughly 40 minutes from the airport to downtown Denver.

The A Line comes every 15-30 minutes, running all day (minus 2 hours from 1am to 3:15am in the morning). Make sure to buy a ticket in advance at the vending machine on the platform!

You’ll get off at the last stop – Union Station (in downtown Denver), where you can either walk to your hotel or take an uber (depending on how close your hotel is of course). We stayed at the Hyatt Regency near the Convention Center and had about a 20 minute walk or so.

Option 2: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

If money is no object (or you have TONS of luggage and/or a big family), an Uber may be your best bet. However, it’ll set you back at least $60 or so (plus/minus a few bucks depending on where exactly your hotel is).

I don’t recommend it unless you’ve really got a thing against public transportation. 

And psst – regular cabs are about the same price, at a set price of $51 + $4.57 gate fee + $5 each additional drop.

Where to Stay in Denver:

If you’ve only got one day in Denver, I highly recommend staying in downtown Denver, in either Lower Downtown (LoDo) or the Central Business District (CBD). 

You can walk to other neighborhoods from Downtown Denver, but it’s the most central, which is why I suggest getting a hotel there. 

We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center in the CBD, which was a short 10 minute walk to Larimer Square and smack dab in the middle of the city center. We liked staying near Larimer Square since we could easily walk to a whole bunch of restaurants and bars at night. The Hyatt was in a prime location (and moderately priced!), and we could walk anywhere in the city if we wanted.

And plus – you won’t need a car since everything on this one day in Denver itinerary is walkable from downtown! And downtown is where most of the city’s main attractions are located. 

High Rated Hotels in Lower Downtown (LoDo):

• Kimpton Hotel Born : Stylish suites in a chic hotel with FREE loaner bikes and Italian dining (and around the block from chicken and waffles at Tupelo Honey!)
• The Ramble (technically in the RiNo district): Industrial chic, fashionable dining in refined quarters, and French balconies (!!!). Next time I’m staying here.
• The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block : A hip hotel offering modern rooms, city views, a polished restaurant, and a cocktail bar.

Top Rated Hotels in the Central Business District (CBD):

• Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center : Contemporary property with a top-floor bar and an indoor pool and spa
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver : Posh boutique hotel with vibrant rooms, spa and restaurant, and FREE wine hour (!!!)
• Four Seasons Hotel Denver : Upscale luxury in a posh high-rise with chic suites with city views, plus a spa, fine dining, and a pool
• The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa : A lauded 1892 landmark, with modern luxury touches and old-world decor. Plus high tea (!!!), fine dining, and a spa. AND it was Elvis’ favorite hotel. 

Other Areas to Stay:

• If you’re looking to visit Denver on a budget, consider staying in Capitol Hill. It’s great for those on a tight budget as there are plenty of budget accommodations here, including the highly rated Ember Hostel !). One of my friends stayed at The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection (over here as well) and really liked it!
• Want a tad more luxury outside the busy city center? Consider Cherry Creek! It’s only 10 minutes (by car) to Downtown Denver, and the entire area is just gorgeous! Don’t miss the roof-top pool of The Jacquard Autograph Collection , or the JW Marriott Denver at Cherry Creek .

Layover in Denver: 

Don’t have time for a full day in Denver? The city’s airport-to-downtown rail line makes for a super easy layover IF you have plenty of time. I mean, hanging out in Denver sounds much more fun than wasting a few hours at the airport. 

Although, there are quite a few restaurants to hit up at the airport if your next flight leaves in a few hours. You’ll find favorites, Little Man Ice Cream and Root Down, both at the airport.

Honestly, it’s not wise to leave the airport unless you REALLY have ample time, say at least 6 hours or so. Hey, you don’t wanna miss your next flight, now do you?! 

With about a 6-7 hour layover, you’ll have about 2-3 hours in the city itself (plan at least an hour from plane to Union Station – door to door – on the light rail, and aim to grab the light rail back about 3 hours or so before your next flight leaves.

While a few hours doesn’t give you time to cover all the attractions on this Denver in one day itinerary, you could check out Union Station, find your favorite book at Tattered Cover, walk over the pedestrian bridges into Confluence Park, and grab some iconic ice cream at Little Man.

Just remember it’s about 40 minutes each way (with trains coming about every 15 minutes), so give yourself enough time to get back before your next flight. 

Additional Tips for visiting Denver:

• Plan to smell a lot of pot/marijuana as it’s legal to buy weed in Colorado (although it’s actually NOT legal to smoke it in public places – which many people don’t know).
• Pack layers, since the weather changes frequently, and fast! And always pack sunscreen!
• Along with any big city, expect to see a relatively large homeless population. We came across many in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, near the Capitol building.

An Important Note on Denver’s high altitude:

Denver isn’t called the Mile High City for nothing! The high altitude can cause your skin to get dry, really quickly. I made sure to carry around a small bottle of hydrating lotion and chapstick!

You may experience Altitude Sickness. And yes, it’s a real thing, and affects everyone differently. We didn’t feel the effects (surprisingly, since we both got massive headaches in Mexico City and San Miguel – although a bit higher in elevation), but some do. 

You may feel super thirsty, have a nagging headache, and unreasonable fatigue. That, my friends, is altitude sickness. Drink a lot of water (this helps your body adjust to the higher altitude) and don’t plan anything strenuous for the first day. 

And with that being said, if you’re taking any day trips to even higher elevations (say Pikes Peak or Rocky Mountain National Park), let your body adjust to the elevation in Denver for at least a day or so first.

Suggested Denver in One Day Itinerary:

This Denver in one day itinerary assumes you’ve arrived the night before. If your flight arrives super early and you can get downtown by 10am or so, I’d say that’ll work, too!

As mentioned earlier, this Denver itinerary is totally walkable. You can opt to take an Uber if you’d like, especially to/from the RiNo neighborhood, as it’s a tad further away from the rest on this list.

And because food is such a major part of experiencing Denver, I’m adding a huge section at the end so you can choose how to fill your stomach throughout the day. Just promise me one thing – you won’t miss out on a salted caramel peanut butter cup cone from Little Man Ice Cream. By far the best ice cream I’ve ever had ( and I’ve had my fair share ).

With just one day in Denver, understand you won’t be able to do every single thing in the city. But — I promise you can get a really great sense of the area. I’m including a few additional things to do at the end if you’ve got a day and a half or even 2 days in Denver.

Morning/Early Afternoon: Downtown Denver

1. Colorado State Capitol

Denver is the capital of Colorado, so you can’t miss a quick visit! Start off your one day in Denver at the Colorado State Capitol building . Look up in awe at it’s beautiful golden dome (made of REAL gold gifted by local gold miners) and admire the super rare rose onyx construction. It’s a prominent feature of the Denver skyline, AND reminiscent of the US Capitol afterall. 

You can normally do free tours of the inside of the building, but it was closed to visitors when we were there. Inside, you’ll find a stunning combination of marble, oak, brass, murals, and stained glass windows. 

Make sure to climb the steps to see “One Mile Above Sea Level” engraved on the 15th step (although it was later learned that the 13th step is actually one mile above sea level). Whoops!

2. 16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall is a 12-block shopping and dining (mostly) pedestrian street which actually reminded me a bit of Las Ramblas in Barcelona ! It’s on the way to our next stops, so if you’re hungry, this is a great area to find some breakfast (Corner Bakery, The Delectable Egg, and Ink! Coffee are all great options on this mile-long block). 

There’s tons of shopping as well, but I personally wouldn’t spend much of your one day in Denver doing so. Check out the D&F Tower, a two-thirds replica of the Campanile of St. Marks in Venice ! 

You’ll come back here later for Larimer Square, so just go for a short stroll and get moving!

3. Tattered Cover Bookstore LoDo

If you’re a book lover, you’ve just gotta check out Tattered Cover. Don’t let that old brick building in downtown Denver confuse you— go on in! 

Not only is it pretty iconic to the city, but there’s an overwhelming selection of books to peruse through! And it’s got that old-school bookstore atmosphere (and smell!) which I absolutely adore! 

I especially love (and appreciate!) how the staff writes out mini synopsi of their recommended books → makes deciding my next read super easy! 

Spend 20 minutes or so hanging out, browsing around, and finding your next favorite author!

4. Union Station

Union Station is a beautifully restored, beaux arts-style transport hub completed way back when in 1914 (it’s since been renovated). 

Yes, it’s technically Denver’s main transport hub (with access to the city’s light rail, Amtrak, regional buses, and the free 16th Street Mall shuttle), but it’s so much more than that! 

Go on in, sit in the beautifully decorated Grand Hall, and order a drink from the Terminal Bar. 

Union Station is sometimes even referred to as Denver’s “living room”, with its plush sitting areas and posh bar area. Looks more like the lobby of a swanky hotel than a train station! Trust me!

If you took the Light Rail from the airport, this is where you got off! It’s located right in LoDo (Lower Downtown), so you’ll definitely pass by it on your way to our next stop. Or if you aren’t lugging around some luggage when you arrive, you can simply check it out then! But whatever you do, don’t miss it!

→ Psst: If you decided to skip Tattered Cover LoDo, there’s a mini Tattered Cover Bookstore here!

5. Confluence Park

Once you’re done oohing and aahing at the architecture of Union Station, head on over to Confluence Park! But first, grab a boozy donut from the Habit Doughnut Dispensary! They’re infused with liquor from tiny airplane bottles, so perfect for any whisky lovers. 

Cross the numerous pedestrian bridges, and you’ve now arrived at Confluence Park!

Here you’ll find some of the best urban green space in the city. There’s tons of cute pups playing and running around, locals soaking up the sunshine on the grass, relaxing with a good book in hand, etc. The park is usually pretty quiet, so it’s a great respite from the busy city.

People even swim here in the summer (although I don’t recommend it since I’ve read high levels of E. Coli have been found in the water — eek.) Swim at your own risk, and don’t let your furry friends drink it!

6. Little Man Ice Cream

Okay, now we’re talking and the REAL reason I had you cross all those little bridges (wink, wink). It’s ice cream time!

And trust me when I say there’s a reason why the line’s usually down the sidewalk. You can’t miss the milk-jug shaped shop featuring it’s creative and unique homemade ice cream flavors. It’s easily a Denver staple; I’m sorry, have you even been to Denver if you haven’t had a few scoops of Little Man?

What to order? My favorites were the salted caramel peanut butter cup (why hasn’t anyone else thought of that) and the dirt ‘n worms ( totally took me back to my childhood). 

They’ve also got a few vegan flavors on the menu so everyone can enjoy! I’ve heard the Vegan chocolate salted oreo is absolutely bomb, as is the salted nutella and banana pudding.

You can feel good eating your ice cream knowing that Little Man is donating scoops of rice and beans to developing countries around the world! I can totally support an ice cream shop doing good for the world. 

Psst: it’s actually open until midnight (true story), so you can come back later for more salted nutella if your little heart desires.

Late Afternoon: RiNo Arts District

Ohhh, RiNo (short for the River North Art District), was one of my favorite areas during our day in Denver! Not only is it super trendy with a bunch of colorful food markets and interesting sidewalk art pieces, but there’s contemporary art galleries and hip cocktail lounges (!!!) and brewpubs with tons of craft beverages. My kinda place! 

One walk around and you’ll definitely feel the urban charm and it’s industrial renewal (I mean, there are restaurants tucked in shipping containers afterall!).

I’ve heard it’s pretty popular at night, but trust me → you’ll wanna get here before dark in order to walk around and see all the vibrant murals! 110% instagrammable, if you ask me.

Don’t miss fancy drinks at Death & Co (within the Ramble Hotel), eclectic shopping at The Source, craft beer at colorful Our Mutual Friend Brewing, a tasting flight at Stem Ciders, some sweets at Denver Central Market (a gourmet food hall in a reclaimed warehouse), and some intriguing contemporary art at fooLPRoof.

Other runner ups include cocktails at The Block Distilling Company, wood-fired pizza at Cart-Driver, live music at Larimer Lounge, and adventurous Mexican at Los Chingones.

Honestly, the options are endless. We could have spent all day here!

And of course, get your fair share of walking around scoping out the colorful graffiti in between the booze! Tons of photo opportunities await!

Night: Larimer Square

Once it gets dark, make your way to Larimer Square, for dinner and drinks (if your poor stomach can handle more booze). We loved the ambiance of the small square, with the signature canopy of lights above and all the historic buildings. It ain’t considered Denver’s oldest and most historic block for nothing! 

No matter the time of year, there’s always something going on. The square was decked out in fall decorations (pumpkins and goards galore), free apple ciders were being passed out, and we (ok, I )  loved every second of it.

And if you want even more options, there’s tons to pick from on the next street over –  the 16th Street Mall! 

If you visited earlier in the day, you’ll know there’s ample restaurants to choose from. You’ll also see horse-drawn carriages and pedi-cabs carrying people up and down the mall after dark, as well as more twinkle lights in the trees than you could ever imagine!

Where to Eat and Drink in Denver:

There’s honestly too much good food to devour during your one day in Denver. You might just have to spend an extra day here in order to get it all in. 

MY TOP PICKS INCLUDE:

• pizza and cocktails at Cart-Driver (in an old shipping container!)
• fried chicken and waffles at Tupelo Honey (try the mint juleps and po’ boys as well!)
• biscuit breakfast sandwiches at Denver Biscuit Company
• Anything and everything at Little Man’s Ice Cream , but especially the salted peanut butter cup if it’s on the menu that day
• Tacos and tequila/mezcal cocktails at you guessed it, Tacos and Tequila
• A kitschy diner experience at Sam’s No. 3 (featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives!)
• Upside down pineapple pancakes at Snooze AM Eatery (super retro!)

And if you wanna squeeze in one more good meal, head on over to Root Down (there’s actually a location at the airport if you missed it in the city).

Other things to do in Denver:

• International Church of Cannabis: I had originally wanted to visit this psycho-delic looking church, but opted to skip it once learning it’s a cool $25 a person to go inside. I’ve heard the light show is worth it, though! Go and tell me how it is! Do note it’s kinda outta the way (not walkable from downtown Denver), and difficult to include on your Denver itinerary if you aren’t cruisin’ around town in a car. 

• City Park: We visited City Park hoping to see the fall colors, but we were actually too early in the season, and only a few trees had begun to turn! Nevertheless, we found it to be a great place for a long stroll, with tons of leafy trees and a sprawling lake in the middle of the park. And this is where you’ll find the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Science, and actually a golf course! 

Day Trips from Denver

If you have more than just one day in Denver, I highly recommend making a day trip (or two – depending on how long you’ve got)! Sure, you could spend all your time in Denver itself, but you can actually tick off most of the touristy things in one day, so might as well go exploring elsewhere! 

I’ve got an entire post detailing all my recommended day trips from Denver , but here’s three of my favorites:

• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

By far the closest day trip from Denver, and you really only need an hour or two to check it out! We left the city around 9am, got to Red Rocks by 9:30, and was back in Denver around 11am or so! 

Red Rocks opens an hour before sunrise and closes an hour after sunset, so you’ve got lots of time to squeeze it into your Denver itinerary.

Although you won’t be witnessing one of their shows, just standing within the rock walls is worth the short trek from Denver. 

With that being said, I wanna see a concert here SO badly – I can’t even imagine how epic it’d be! I mean, the giant sandstone walls of the theatre are higher than Niagara Falls – whoa!

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

You’re oh so close to the park, so if you’ve got an extra day in Denver, don’t miss Rocky Mountain National Park! With just one day, make sure to drive along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at the Alpine Visitor Center and Alpine Ridge Trail (my favorite spot in the park!) and make the short hike around Bear Lake. 

If you’re visiting in the fall months, you may be lucky enough to see hundreds of elk grazing around – they’re definitely a sight to see!

Tip: Be prepared for any and all kinds of weather. On our most recent visit (in mid-October), there was an unexpected snowstorm, and the main road through the park was closed. Keep a heavy-ish jacket in the car if you’re visiting from October – April/May as the weather changes quite frequently, especially as elevation changes.

Spend some time in Estes Park, the little mountain town directly East of the park (and always stock up on homemade fudge and taffy here!)

3. Colorado Springs

Located just about an hour and 15 minutes south of Denver, I highly encourage you to plan a full day exploring Colorado Springs. A few of my favorite activities:

• Drive up Pikes Peak (wear warm clothing as it gets super chilly at the 14,115 foot summit) and get a special Pikes Peak donut (apparently they need to use a special recipe because of the high elevation). 
• Wander throughout Garden of the Gods (located at the base of Pikes Peak), and admire the 1,300 acres of sandstone formations. Don’t miss the balancing rock, kissing camels, and the peaks of the Rockies! One of my favorite places in all of Colorado!
• Walk through history at The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a group of relocated Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings overlooking the resort town of Manitou Springs. I didn’t have time to go, so I’ll be saving this for my next visit!

And whatever you do, end the day stuffing your face with extra moist brisket, ribs, sausage, creamed corn, baked beans, and banana pudding at Rudy’s BBQ for dinner. The first time I ate here was actually in Austin, Texas , so you know it’s legit!

Hope this helps you plan out your one day in Denver! Told ya it was easy! What’ll you be including on your Denver itinerary?!

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May 21, 2021 at 10:34 am

This was unbelievably helpful. Thank you SO MUCH.

June 6, 2021 at 7:59 pm

I really loved your article, very helpful and fun. I'm traveling to Denver this week and I'll definitely have one of those donuts ❣️?

July 6, 2021 at 10:30 pm

Super helpful information in planning an upcoming weekend trip to Denver, thank you so much!

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The Perfect 4 days in Denver Itinerary

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Are you planning a 4 days in Denver itinerary and wondering how to get the most out of it? Well, you’re in luck! This blog post will provide you with the perfect 4 day itinerary to explore Denver, Colorado.

Denver is a vibrant city with a wide variety of attractions to explore. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or an urban explorer, Denver has something for everyone. 4 days in Denver itinerary is the perfect way to get a taste of all the city has to offer.

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How many days do you need to see Denver?

4 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Denver. Whether you’re looking to explore the nearby Rocky Mountains, or an art and history buff looking to delve into Denver’s cultural heritage, a 4 days in Denver itinerary will give you enough time to take in the sights and sounds of Colorado’s Mile High City.

Getting to Denver

The best way to get to Denver from out of state is by plane, train, or car. Denver International Airport (DIA) is one of the busiest airports in the country. Amtrak’s California Zephyr line stops in the heart of downtown Denver at Union Station. Once you’re in Denver, there are many easy ways to explore such as taking a shuttle service, or public bus, booking an Uber or Lyft, or biking.

If you’re flying into Denver International, I would recommend taking the RTD Light Rail down to Denver Union Station (depending on your destination). It’s a lovely scenic route that ends in the vibey and fun Union Station. You can check out the Terminal Bar or the many other restaurants and shops including cool coffee spots.

Day 1 – Explore the City of Denver

Exploring the city of Denver is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the Mile High City. You’ll find unique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. You should definitley consider booking one or a couple of Denver Tours that will help you explore the city. You can also experience the amazing food scene by booking a Downtown Denver Food tour .

CityPASS Denver

You can make the most out of your time in Denver by purchasing a CityPASS Denver that includes the most popular sights in Denver for one low price.

These are just a few of the fun attractions:

• Denver Art Museum – This world-renowned museum features a permanent collection of more than 70,000 works of art from around the world.
• Denver Botanic Gardens – This beautiful oasis features more than 40 acres of lush gardens, including rare collections of plants from around the world. Take a stroll through the gardens, take in the stunning views from the observation decks, and enjoy a peaceful picnic in the park.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science – This world-renowned museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, from dinosaurs to space exploration. It also has a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and a wide range of exhibits.

Hangout at the LoDo

LoDo refers to lower downtown Denver. LoDo is Denver’s oldest and most iconic neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and impressive art galleries. Head to the 16th Street Mall and ride the free shuttle, which takes you up and down the mile-long pedestrian shopping area.

The craft beer scene in Denver is booming, so take some time to explore a few of the local breweries. Denver is home to some of the best breweries in the country, including Great Divide Brewing Company , Wynkoop Brewing Company , and Epic Brewing Company . Be sure to try a few of their unique brews and find out what makes each brewery unique.

Denver, Colorado has a variety of wineries and wine bars to explore. Popular wineries and wine bars in the Denver area include Snowy Peaks , Silver Vines Winery , Blanchard Family Wines , Carboy Winery , and Deep Roots Winery & Bistro .

Day 2 – Tour the Great Outdoors

There are many popular parks to go hiking near Denver, Colorado. Each of these parks offers a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. It’s the perfect addition to 4 days in Denver itinerary.

Denver area parks and trails:

• Rocky Mountain National Park (90 miles/1 hour and 30 minutes)
• Staunton State Park (40 miles/1 hour)
• Red Rocks Park (25 minutes/15 miles)
• Chautauqua Park (45 minutes/30 miles)
• Arapaho National Forest (60 miles/1 hour and 15 minutes)
• Brainard Lake Recreation Area (45 minutes/30 miles)
• Buffalo Creek (36 miles/1 hour)
• Roxborough State Park (35 miles/40 minutes)
• White Ranch Park (30 minutes/17 miles)
• Mount Evans (50 miles/1 hour and 10 minutes)

Golden, Colorado is a beautiful city with something for everyone. From outdoor activities to unique attractions, Golden is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Explore the great outdoors by hiking Lookout Mountain Nature Center, or head over to Coors Brewery for a tour and tasting.

If you’re looking for some culture, visit the National Renewable Energy Laboratory or the Colorado School of Mines. For a taste of the city’s rich history, take a walk around the Golden Public Art Walking Tour and view the historic mansions and buildings. Check out the amazing shops, restaurants, and galleries in downtown Golden. With so much to do and see, Golden is the perfect place for a fun-filled trip!

Boulder, Colorado is a vibrant city filled with exciting things to do. Take a stroll along the picturesque Pearl Street Mall, and explore the city’s restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. For stunning views, hike the iconic Flatirons or take a scenic drive up Flagstaff Mountain.

Enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Visit the University of Colorado Boulder campus and explore its history and attractions, such as Fiske Planetarium and Macky Auditorium. Immerse yourself in Boulder’s culture at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, or ake a tour of the Celestial Seasonings Tea Company.

For outdoor adventure, visit Cherry Creek State Park for stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and hiking. Get a taste of the city’s history with a visit to the Aurora History Museum, or explore the Plains Conservation Center to see wild pronghorns and prairie dogs.

Shop at the Southlands Lifestyle Center and explore its eateries, or hit the trails at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.

Red Rocks, Colorado is a stunning destination for outdoor adventurers and music lovers. Enjoy stunning views and breathtaking natural attractions. Take a hike along the Red Rock Trails and explore the park’s rock formations.

For a taste of history, take a tour of the Historic Trading Post and Hall of Fame. Visit the Red Rocks Visitor Center for information on all the park’s attractions, then swing by the Trading Post to pick up a souvenir.

Estes & Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Colorado. Estes Park is home to the iconic Stanley Hotel, the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, and the beautiful Lake Estes.

Spend a day exploring downtown, browsing the shops and restaurants, or take a kayak out on the lake. Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning expanse of mountains, meadows, and trails. Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, or explore the many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Go fishing, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing in the winter months.

Check out this post on 8 reasons to visit Rocky Mountain National Park if you’re heading that way.

Day 3 – Discover the Arts & Culture Scene

In a 4 days in Denver itinerary, make sure you make time to explore Denver’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

RiNo, or the River North Arts District , is a vibrant neighborhood in Denver known as “the place where art is made.” It is home to some of the city’s most unique bars, microbreweries, art galleries, and unique shops. RiNo also boasts historic warehouses and factory buildings that are now home to some of Denver’s most creative businesses.

A visit to RiNo is an energetic and lively experience, full of art, delicious food, and creative music venues. Whether you’re looking for a coffee shop to relax in, a brewery to sample some local beers, or an art gallery to admire, the RiNo district has something for everyone. Plus, it’s conveniently located just ten minutes from downtown Denver, making it an ideal spot for a Denver itinerary.

Explore Denver’s thriving live music scene . One of the most iconic live music venues in the city is Red Rocks Amphitheatre , widely considered to be one of the best natural amphitheaters in the world. Other popular venues include the Mission Ballroom, the Bluebird Theater, Cervantes’ Masterpiece, and the Hi-Dive.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is a complex of artistic venues from Broadway tours to locally produced Theatre Company productions, immersive plays, cabaret shows, and more. Located in downtown Denver, the DCPA is home to the historic Buell Theatre, which regularly hosts award-winning shows from around the world. It’s also home to the Black Box Theatre, which showcases boundary-pushing performances from local and international artists.

Day 4 – Explore a Charming Mountain town

There are several mountain towns located a short drive away from Denver, Colorado. Our favorites are Boulder, Golden, Morrison and Estes.

• Boulder (27 miles/40 minutes)
• Golden (16 miles/30 minutes)
• Winter Park (67 miles/1 hour and 45 minutes)
• Morrison (23 miles/30 minutes)
• Idaho Springs (32 miles/45 minutes)
• Evergreen (29 miles/45 minutes)
• Estes Park (70 miles/1 hour and 10 minutes)
• Georgetown (42 miles/1 hour and 10 minutes)
• Nederland (20 miles/30 minutes)
• Ouray (210 miles/3 hours and 30 minutes)

Where to stay in Denver for 4 days

There are a number of great hotels in Denver that you can stay in for your 4 days in Denver itinerary.

The Brown Palace Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. This historic hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a variety of amenities, from a world-class spa to a rooftop pool.

The Oxford Hotel is another great option. This boutique hotel offers modern rooms and suites, as well as a variety of dining and nightlife options.

The Crawford Hotel is a cool option since it’s in Denver Union Station and located near a bunch of restaurants and bars downtown.

These are just one of the many options available in Denver. I also love Hilton and Marriott properties and there are a lot of great ones located in the area. You really can’t go wrong!

Where to Eat in Denver

Denver is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale bistros. Here are a few of our favorite places to eat in the city.

• Dushanbe Teahouse
• Denver Biscuit Company
• Beast + Bottle
• Voghera Ristorante

Recommended Bars in Denver

Denver is home to some of the best bars in the country. It has from the cozy and charming to the bustling and vibrant, Denver has something for everyone.

Here are some of our favorites:

• Adrift Tiki Bar
• The Cruise Room at the Oxford Hotel
• Mile High Spirits Distillery Lounge
• Forget Me Not

Tips for Visiting Denver

Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes . Denver is a very walkable city, and you’ll want to make sure you have the right footwear for exploring.

Bring a jacket . Even in the summer months, the nights can get chilly in Denver.

Take advantage of public transportation. Denver has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city.

Check out the local markets. Denver is home to a variety of farmers’ markets , where you can find fresh produce and local goods.

Take your time. Denver is full of exciting things to see and do, so don’t rush your visit. Take your time and enjoy the city.

What is the best month to go to Denver?

The best month to visit Denver will depend on what activities you plan on doing during your visit. For avid skiers, late November to the end of March is the best time as the slopes are open and the cold temperatures keep the snow fresh.

For hikers, mountain bikers, and river rafters, May to October is the best time as the weather is best for these activities. Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are the best times of year overall as the temperatures are mild and the crowds are less.

My husband and I got married in Denver in October and the weather was absolutely awful the week leading up to our wedding. Thankfully, it cleared up literally the day of our wedding and it was a sunny yet chilly 50 degrees. It was absolutely magical!

Is Denver expensive to visit?

Denver is an affordable destination. Like any destination, Denver can be expensive but it doesn’t have to be. Accommodation is generally quite reasonable, with plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available.

Food and transportation are also affordable, with local restaurants offering tasty and budget-friendly meals and public transport fares being relatively inexpensive. Denver also has plenty of free attractions and activities, such as walking tours, parks, and museums, making it a great budget destination.

If you’re ballin’ on a budget, you’ll definitely want to check out my posts on how to plan a weekend trip on a budget and ways to save money on your next vacation .

Get Ready to visit Denver, CO

Your trip to Denver will be unforgettable, no matter how long you stay! Start your 4 days in Colorado itinerary with a full day of outdoor activities and end the trip by taking in the nightlife and culture of the city. You’re sure to have an amazing time!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my feature in The Ultimate Denver, CO Bucket List from Redfin .

Travel Blogger

Genni is a travel blogger based in South Florida, founder of Traveling Franklins and Lazy Budget Travel Academy.

Genni has been focusing on Budget Travel and earning Travel Points and Miles since 2015. She has a background in hospitality, working for companies like Hilton and Marriott. She has also worked in hospitality marketing software with clients like Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG.

But her true passion is teaching others how to travel more for less because everyone deserves to take their PTO and explore the world on their own budget!

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Home » North America » Denver

EPIC DENVER Itinerary! (2024)

Denver is Colorado’s enthralling capital city. It’s nicknamed the “Mile High City” due to its official elevation being exactly one mile above sea level. Denver is surrounded by vast mountain ranges, full of picturesque beauty and plenty of outdoor activities!

If you’re seeking adventure, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Denver! However, the city is also perfect for travelers after a quiet vacation. This American metropolis dates back to the Old West era and is full of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions! Let’s not forget Denver’s amazing craft beer culture and creative culinary scene!

From hiking and day trips to museums, galleries, shopping streets, and beer, we’ve got it all! We’ve also included plenty of free things to do in Denver!

Let’s get into the best way to spend your time in the “Mile High City!”

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Best time to visit Denver

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Denver!

In summer (June – August) Denver enjoys relatively low humidity, making for lovely sun-filled days and cool, pleasant evenings. This is considered the city’s peak season. If you’re planning a trip to Denver during summer, make sure to make your reservation well in advance!

Fall (September – November) is also a popular time to visit Denver. The weather is comfortable and many of Denver’s annual culinary festivals take place in September and October.

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The winter months (December – February) can get a bit chilly but are bearable. Snow doesn’t typically stay on the ground for long, which means exploring the city in winter is still very pleasant!

Despite Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountain ski areas, the city sees a drop in tourism during winter. This means you can score some great deals on hotels!

Spring (March-May) is another great time to visit Denver. The temperatures start to pick up, but the summer crowds will still be at bay.

With a Denver City Pass , you can experience the best of Denver at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

So where should you stay in Denver ? Denver is a fairly spread-out city, but the distances between attractions aren’t too time-consuming. Choosing the right accommodation and area of the city to stay in will compliment your Denver itinerary and make your trip that much more exciting!

For first-time travelers or anyone spending 3 days in Denver or less, downtown is the best place to stay in the city. There are loads of hostels, hotels and some Denver Airbnbs in this locale.

This area is a great middle-ground between uptown and lower downtown (LoDo), the city’s other popular districts. All three of these districts are great areas and contain most of Denver’s top attractions.

If you’re spending more than 3 days in Denver and looking for accommodation outside the busy city center, Littleton is a great option! This charming town is located just 12 miles southwest of central Denver. It’s an independent city with a relaxing vibe.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Littleton contains more than 30 miles of trails and bikeways passing through the city and plenty of parks! What’s more, it’s directly connected to Denver by public transportation, so getting in and out of the city will be a breeze!

Best Hostel in Denver –  Ember Hostel

If you’re looking for a budget backpacker for your trip to Denver, Ember Hostel is your answer! This hostel with a hot tub is centrally located and offers loads of perks. From complimentary coffee and tea to free jacuzzi use and free on-site parking, this is a great place to base your vacation!

For more cool hostel options, check out our  Denver hostel guide.

Best Airbnb in Denver –  One bedroom loft in a walking distance to EVERYTHING

Beautifully furnished basement apartment with exposed brick, newly renovated kitchen, walk-in closet and in-suite washer and dryer. The building also has complimentary street parking available out front.

Best Budget Hotel in Denver –  La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Denver Central

This Denver hotel is great value! All rooms are modern and spacious and feature a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and free Wi-Fi. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, free on-site parking, launderette services, and free breakfast available every day!

Best Luxury Hotel in Denver –  The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

If you’re planning a lavish vacation in Denver, this 5-star hotel is a great option! All rooms feature a coffee/cappuccino maker, flat-screen TV, iPod dock, and butler service. Guests will also enjoy the use of their extensive spa facilities, fitness center, lively on-site restaurant, cocktail bar, and much, much more!

Don’t forget to check out VRBOs in Denver , too!

Whether you’re spending 2 days in Denver or more, you’re going to need to know how to get around the city.

Denver’s Regional Transportation District, more popularly known as RTD, is composed of buses and trains. This is Denver’s primary mode of public transportation. It’s easy to use, affordable, and very reliant.

Renting a car in Denver is also very popular. Cars can be rented from the Denver Airport and select locations in the city. If you’re planning to explore more of Colorado, renting a car is a great option. However, if you’re only spending 3 days in Denver you can easily explore the city using public and foot transportation.

Denver is one of the country’s fittest cities, and there are hundreds of miles of dedicated bike paths. Denver’s bike-sharing program, Denver B-Cycle offers more than 800 red trek bicycles available for sharing at 88 stations around the “Mile High City.” Purchase passes and pick up a bike with a credit card at any B-cycle station.

Lastly, Denver is a very walkable city! Many sites can be easily seen on foot and tourists are also encouraged to use the foot paths. Just remember to stay to the right of the path and listen for riders coming up behind you!

Want to save money on accommodation?

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Denver Central Market | Civic Center Park | Denver Museum of Nature & Science | Denver Botanic Gardens | Daniels and Fisher Tower | Larimer Square

Spend the first day of your itinerary for Denver exploring the city’s cultural and local highlights! 

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Denver Central Market

• Why it’s awesome: The Denver Central Market offers a variety of food choices, it’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local food culture!
• Cost: Free.
• > Food nearby: Vero Italian is a popular stand inside the market. Swing by for classic Italian pizzas and fresh-made pasta, they also sell their home-made sauces to go!

The Denver Central Market is the best place to sample the local flavors of Denver! It’s a gourmet marketplace, food hall, and grocery with a large assortment of local products.

They house a variety of vendors, including a bakery, coffee shop, fish market, butcher, chocolate shop, ice-cream shop, and more! The market also offers fresh produce and a retail section selling dry goods; from fresh bread to olive oil and spices.

The market provides a relaxing, inviting, and casual atmosphere. There is plenty of seating available, however, the weekends can get a bit busy and you might have to be more patient when looking for a seat.

The building itself is beautiful, with exposed brick walls and large windows that flood the building with natural light. The vibe is very cool and eclectic, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal.

Start your day sipping a cup of coffee while you rub shoulders with the locals and wander the stalls!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Civic Center Park

• Why it’s awesome: Denver’s scenic and expansive park in the middle of the busy city.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Cap City Tavern is a family-owned sports bar that has a large menu and a warm atmosphere.

Civic Center Park, also referred to as Capitol City Park is Denver’s premier regional outdoor space. The park comprises 25,000 square feet and is a great place to go in Denver to spend some time outdoors!

You’ll find a variety of outdoor activities, including horseshoes, baseball, football, and soccer fields! There are also two lakes and lots of picnic areas available. Historical monuments and statues dot the landscape and walkways snake through the scenic surroundings.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Denver with children, there are playgrounds and lots of green space where kids can burn off some energy! The park also houses the Denver Zoo, perfect for some family fun and a great experience all ages will enjoy!

Even better, if you’re a budget traveler, you can add this park to your list of free things to do in Denver, Colorado!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

• Why it’s awesome: A fun and engaging museum that explores everything related to nature and science.
• Cost: Adult admission is USD $20.00, youth (3-18) admission is USD $15.00
• Food nearby: The T-Rex Cafe is housed inside the museum and offers quick cafe fare.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a community natural history and science museum for informal science education in the Rocky Mountain region. Through the museum’s variety of exhibitions, programs, and activities, visitors can learn about the natural history of Colorado, Earth, and the universe!

Inside, you’ll find more than one million objects, including natural history and anthropological materials, and archival and library resources.

The permanent exhibits include displays relating to the prehistoric evolution of the earth. With displays including skeletons of dinosaurs and a replica skull of an ancient fish!

The Egyptian Mummy display contains two mummies, along with several coffins and various antiquities relating to ancient Egypt.

Other exhibits relate to wildlife, space odyssey, gems and minerals, and Native American cultures! The museum also contains temporary exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater.

This is one of the best places to visit in Denver with kids. They’ll love the hands-on exhibits that combine education with entertainment.

The museum is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can buy your museum ticket at the door or online. Tickets purchased online are discounted USD $1.00!

Insider Tip: On the museum’s website, there are four different downloadable scavenger hunts available. Guests are encouraged to print these out and search the museum for hidden secrets!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Denver Botanic Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautifully curated and expansive park in the middle of the city.
• Cost: USD $13.00
• Food nearby: Offshoots at the Gardens Cafe is located inside the botanic gardens. This casual restaurant features basic cafe fare and is surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the gardens, outdoor seating is also available!

The Denver Botanic Gardens are comprised of 23-acres. The park contains a conservatory, themed gardens, and an amphitheater that hosts regular summer concerts.

Inside, you’ll find an incredible variety of plants from different regions of the world, as well as plants native to Colorado and neighboring states.

It’s a relaxing place to have a walk among the trees, flowers, and ponds; there’s truly so much beauty to see! Take a break at one of the park’s gazebos, benches, or pavilions and enjoy the splendor of nature.

If you’re traveling with your significant other and looking for romantic things to do in Denver, a romantic stroll around the lush vegetation or a nice picnic under a tree is sure to set the mood!

The gardens host loads of events throughout the year, from food festivals to yoga classes. Make sure to check their online calendar before you visit to see what’s on offer!

Insider Tip: Free days occur at the gardens throughout the year, check their calendar for the official dates and enjoy open admission for the day!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – The Daniels and Fisher Tower

• Why it’s awesome: This iconic tower is one of the most historic Denver landmarks and has a 20th-floor observation deck.
• Food nearby: Sam’s No. 3 is a Denver diner that has been open since 1927. They dish up big helpings of comfort food from early morning till late at night!

To experience a bit of historic Denver, visit the Daniels and Fisher Tower! This Denver landmark opened in 1911 and was one of the city’s most successful department stores. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi at 325 feet high!

Although it no longer houses a department store, it remains a beautiful tower and is a great quick stop on your Denver itinerary, plus it’s open 24-hours a day!

This 20-floor clock tower has clock faces on all four sides.  The exterior is beautiful and nicely restored. In the main floor lobby, there is an interesting and informative display providing the history of the tower, from the construction of the tower to the present day. At night, the tower is beautifully illuminated!

You’ll get a truly unique perspective of the “Mile High City” in a historic and novel setting. You’ll also receive phenomenal views of downtown Denver and the mountain range.

Tours of the tower are available and provide a more intimate look into the history of the tower and the city of Denver.

Insider Tip: In the basement of the tower you’ll find The Clocktower Cabaret. This intimate nightclub offers live variety entertainment, sumptuous decor, and a tasty array of drinks and appetizers. For couples, it’s one of the most romantic places in Denver!

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Larimer Square

• Why it’s awesome: Larimer Square is a historic district in Denver filled with plenty of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife options.
• Food nearby: Head to Marco’s Coal Fired Restaurant for authentic crispy crust Neapolitan pizzas, made using high-quality ingredients.

Larimer Square is Denver’s most historic block and the place where Denver was founded. The area is filled with independent shops, bars, and restaurants.

With glittering lights strung over the entire block, it has a charming and elegant allure. From Victorian buildings and houses to specialty boutiques and unique eateries, this hip and artsy area of the city is a must-see on your Denver itinerary!

Shop at one-of-a-kind stores with exclusive offerings, scope out the special events and enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene! Many Denver walking tours also depart from Larimer Square.

The epicenter of the square is a straight one block street lined with restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and clubs. The restaurants have a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere and serve everything from French and Italian, to Continental food!

For night time options, you’ll find classy wine bars, party venues, and a stand-up comedy club. This is one of the city’s best social spots and one of the most popular Denver points of interest!

The Retro Room Salon and Lounge really personifies the old-time Denver vibe. This venue mixes old-fashioned vibes with the modern Denver quirkiness. They also have a unique variety of house-infused vodkas. For something different, try a pickle-shot or a pepperoncini shot!

Spice up your Denver itinerary and end your night at this hot nightclub!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Downtown Denver | Molly Brown House Museum | Denver Art Museum | Confluence Park | Denver Pavilions

Spend the second day of your 2-day itinerary in Denver exploring the city’s most popular attractions! Grab your walking shoes and get ready for an action-packed day of adventure!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Downtown Denver

• Why it’s awesome: Downtown is the energetic epicenter of Denver!
• Food nearby: Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery is a brewpub chain serving craft beer and upscale pub grub in a lively setting.

From historic buildings and nightclubs to museums and shopping malls, you’ll find everything downtown!

16th Street Mall is arguably the most popular attraction downtown. At a mile and a quarter long, this pedestrianized only shopping complex is lined with more than 300 outlets!

If you’re not into shopping, drop into one of the numerous cafes or bars and sip on a drink while people watching. You’ll also see some amazing street performers doing their thing!>  At night, the mall is illuminated by thousands of lights strung across the street.

The Money Museum is also located in downtown. Head in and check out the museum’s interactive exhibits and learn about the history of American currency. You’ll even leave with a free bag of money – shredded of course!

This is just a small sampling of what downtown has to offer. The area is filled with so many fun and unique Denver attractions that perfectly showcase the quirkiness and charm of the “Mile High City.”

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Molly Brown House Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Molly Brown House Museum is the former house of Molly Brown, a historic figure in the women’s suffrage movement who also happened to survive the sinking of the Titanic.
• Food nearby: Stop by City O’ City for quality meals catering to all dietary requirements. You’ll find healthy options suitable for vegans, vegetarians, meat-eaters, and those who are gluten intolerant. This is City O’ City’s menu.

The Molly Brown House Museum was the home of American philanthropist, activist, and socialite, Margaret Brown, also known as “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” after she survived the sinking of the Titanic!

In 1970 the house was set for demolition, but a group of citizens raised the funds for the house to be restored to its former glory! In restoration, the group used architectural research and original photographs taken in 1910 to reconstruct it.

Her house was turned into a museum that presents exhibits representing her life and that of Victorian Denver. Tours are required to view the house. During peak travel months they tend to fill-up early, book early to guarantee you’re not disappointed. 

A limited number of presale tickets are available online. Most tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of your visit, so make sure to get there early!

The house is steeped in history and highlights the life, strength, and character of Margaret Brown. You’ll be able to see original artifacts and elements.

The guides are very knowledgeable about the history of the house and the area. They share the impact the Browns had in their community and the many contributions to women’s rights that Mrs. Brown championed in her life.

The house is beautiful and the story behind it is even better! The museum is a historical treasure and a worthwhile stop on your Denver itinerary!

All tours last approximately 45 minutes and usually start every 30 minutes, beginning on the hour and every half hour. The museum is closed every Monday and public holidays.

Insider Tip: Looking for free tours in Denver? The Colorado State Capitol building is just a 5-minute walk from the Molly Brown House Museum and offers free public tours hourly from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm! For more budget tips, check out our budget backpacking Denver travel guide.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Denver Art Museum

• Why it’s awesome: This large museum houses a comprehensive collection of global art spanning back centuries.
• Cost: Adult admission is USD $13.00, children 18 years old and younger visit for free!
• Food nearby: Swing by the Celeste and Dick Callahan Cafe located in the museum for cafe fare, including salads, sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee.

The Denver Art Museum (DAM) is a large museum located in Denver’s Civic Center. The museum is known for its collection of Native American art, and its other collections of more than 70,000 diverse works from across the world, many going back centuries.

The museum has nine curatorial departments: architecture, design, and graphics, Asian art, modern and contemporary art, native arts, new world collection, painting and sculpture, photography, textile art, and western American art.

As you can tell from the long list, there’s truly something everyone will appreciate at the museum and it’s suitable for all interests! It combines many different types of arts, installations, time periods, and interactive experiences. The installations are ever-changing and there is always something new and exciting going on at the museum!

If you’re visiting with kids, there is a painting studio where they can make their very own art to take home with them!

If you’re spending a weekend in Denver make sure to check out the weekend artists’ demonstrations where you can meet local creators and watch live demonstrations in the studio!

Make sure to check out the museum’s store for art-inspired souvenirs including jewelry, home goods, books, art activity kits for kids, and more!

Insider Tip: Looking for more free stuff to do in Denver? General admission to the museum is free on the first Saturday of every month!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Confluence Park

• Why it’s awesome: This park is an oasis in an urban setting! It’s great for walking, running, cycling, or just relaxing!
• Food nearby: Public School 303 is a modern pub serving craft beer and your typical American comfort food and bar fare.

Confluence Park is an urban park in Denver’s lower downtown encompassing the junction of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River.

The park is filled with concrete pathways, perfect for walkers, runners, and bikers. There are also lush grassy areas, river overlooks, and plenty of park benches. You can even participate in a scavenger hunt!

Two large pedestrian bridges cross the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. At the eastern edge of the South Platte, you’ll find a kayak run where you can watch kayakers brave the rapids!

During the warmer months, this is a popular area in the city to have a splash in the lake or layout and sunbathe on the sandy banks while enjoying picturesque views of downtown Denver.

If you’re only planning a 2-day itinerary for Denver, this park’s convenient location in the middle of the city makes it an ideal place to explore the city’s outdoor areas.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Denver Pavilions

• Why it’s awesome: This popular outdoor entertainment and shopping area is one of the top Denver attractions, it’s perfect for all ages and interests!
• Food nearby: Maggiano’s Little Italy is located inside the Denver Pavilions. They specialize in freshly made Italian fare and premium wines!

Located in the heart of downtown Denver, the Denver Pavilions is a two-city-block, three-stories-high, open-air mall. It features 40 shops, a handful of restaurants, and other fun entertainment venues, including a bowling alley, an epic arcade, and movie theater!

You’ll find a nice mix of common mall shops and unique gift shops. Many of the restaurants offer great happy hour specials and the restaurants on the top floor offer great views of the city! What’s more, the pavilions contain a brand new 4DX movie theater!

If you’re looking for great Denver couples activities, why not visit the pavilion for dinner and a show? Save your movie ticket stub and you’ll receive special discounts at a selection of restaurants in the pavilions. Check their website for the list of participating restaurants.

Bonus: if you’re coming to the Denver Pavilions to see a movie, you’ll receive 4 hours of free parking in the underground parking garage with the purchase of a movie ticket.

You can easily access the Denver Pavilions via the free mall shuttle service operating on 16th Street. There are stops on Welton Street, Glenarm Place, and Tremont Street. This will conveniently place you directly in front of Denver Pavilions.

If you get tired of walking, hop aboard and it will take you back to the end of the street you started on.

This is a stop on your Denver itinerary that you could spend an hour enjoying, or all day! Make sure to plan your time accordingly and check their website for the full list of stores and restaurants so you can plan your visit!

Insider Tip: While you’re in the area, make sure to check out the Big Blue Bear tourist attraction – the city’s iconic 40-foot bear standing up to peer into the Denver Convention Center. It’s only a 7-minute walk from the Denver Pavilion and is a great photo opportunity!

Ember Hostel

If you want a little more help deciding which hostel or hotel to choose, check out the best places to stay in Denver. If you’re looking for a budget backpacker for your trip to Denver, Ember Hostel is your answer! This accommodation is centrally located and offers loads of perks.

• Free Parking

International Church of Cannabis | The Skyline Beer Garden | Great Divide Brewing Co | Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre | Coors Field

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Denver, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are 5 more fun attractions we recommend checking out!

International Church of Cannabis

• The church was opened on April 20 (naturally) of 2017.
• A welcoming church with a VERY chill environment.
• Open from Monday – Thursday from 1:00 pm – 3:50 pm and Friday – Sunday from 12:00 pm – 5:50 pm.

The International Church of Cannabis is possibly one of the most unique attractions in Denver!

The interior of the church is dazzled in flamboyant colors and psychedelic art that will leave you feeling and thinking bigger and brighter! From its neon rainbow mural on the ceiling to its large “WEED” sign!

There is also a chill-out room, full of fun games, instruments, and art. In a city that is literally a mile high, this church in Denver is quite fitting!

Make sure to visit for their “Beyond” experience, a fully immersive, meditative activity complete with projection mapping, laser lights, and sound! Shows start promptly at 20 minutes past the hour, every hour and last for 33 minutes.

Make sure to add this to your Denver itinerary, we promise you won’t regret it!

The Skyline Beer Garden

• Open seasonally from early/mid-June  to mid-October!
• Open every day except Mondays from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.
• Lively atmosphere, cold drinks, and fun games!

The Skyline Beer Garden celebrates Colorado’s dynamic craft beer culture! Nestled in the heart of downtown Denver, this iconic attraction features nearly 40,000 square feet of outdoor space and open-air tented seating. The venue offers a fun and social environment. 

There is a family-friendly game area with ping pong, a miniature golf course, and cornhole. Every Friday and Saturday night during the summer you’ll also find live music playing.

The Beer Garden features at least 12 different craft brews on tap. Swing by during happy hour and receive special discounted prices. For some of Denver’s best food , the venue offers locally-made street tacos as well as other classic Mexican fare, made using all your favorite fixings!

This place is popular with both locals and tourists, for a fun social experience, add this stop to your Denver trip itinerary!

Great Divide Brewing Co

• Open every day from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
• Daily free tours of the brewery are offered!
• Discover what makes Denver stand out in beer culture.

Colorado is famous for its craft beer scene , and Denver is home to a multitude of amazing breweries. Among the most popular of the local Denver breweries is the Great Divide Brewing Co.

This lively joint offers beer tastings of their own brews, as well as growlers and free brewery tours! You’ll find a wide selection of unique, quality brews, served to you from their friendly staff! The atmosphere is intimate, comfortable, and relaxing.

They also offer free tours of the brewery every day! All tours are first come first serve basis, no reservations are needed. Make sure to call ahead to see what times the tours are offered so you can arrive early and guarantee a spot.

Tours generally last for 20 minutes and give you a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic Denver brewery. You’ll see the back-of-house operations, beer production, and bottling/canning.

The Great Divide Brewing Co has three locations in Denver. The Denver brewery and Tap Room, located in downtown Denver, is the original location.

For food options, they have food trucks every day that usually arrive between 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm. The trucks vary, but almost all of them offer vegetarian options. 

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

• Located just 10 miles west of Denver.
• The visitor center is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• The venue is surrounded by scenic hiking and biking trails!

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is a naturally formed, world-famous outdoor venue that is the only naturally occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world. What makes it even more special is that it’s surrounded by the wonders of nature!

This is a great place to see a concert when you travel to Denver. Red Rocks is renowned for its star-studded concert offerings. You’ll find the world’s most famous and talented acts performing here! Check their online calendar for a full list of performances.

If there’s not a concert or soundcheck going on during the time of your visit, you can walk through the auditorium. The scenery is spectacular and you’ll find some of the best views in Denver!

While you’re here, make sure to visit the Red Rocks Park Visitors Center. It features interactive educational displays, a short film documentary describing the geologic and musical history, and the Performer’s Hall of Fame.

Since the venue is outside and the weather can change without warning, make sure to come prepared! Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, food, and other essentials, especially if you plan on hiking. You’l want a good travel jacket . Denver can be rainy and very cold depending on the time of year.

Coors Field

• Beloved baseball park and the home field of the Colorado Rockies.
• Located in Denver’s lower downtown neighborhood.
• Visit the rooftop bar for great views of the Denver skyline!

If you’re touring Denver during baseball season (late March/early April to late October/early November) catch a home game and root on the Colorado Rockies! Kick back, relax, and experience the lively thrill of game day!

The Rockies are a great source of pride for the city, and game day is sure to bring lots of enthusiasm and excitement. You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy the team comradery! Immerse yourself in the local sports culture and get into the friendly competitive spirit!

If you’re planning a Denver itinerary with kids, there’s an interactive area where kids can test their baseball skills. They can play tee-ball, see their throwing speed, and take the electronic home run challenge! There’s also a playground located on the Main Concourse where kids can run around and burn off some energy.

The stadium is modern and has been well maintained and nicely updated over the years. You’ll find plenty of food vendors and a great selection of Colorado craft beer. A trip to the ballpark is a fun activity all ages will enjoy!

Whether you’re spending one day in Denver or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind! Overall, Denver is considered a safe city for tourists to travel to. However, there are a few things you’ll want to be vigilant of.

Most neighborhoods in Denver are safe, but some should be avoided. Stick to the more populated areas of downtown Denver. Keep to the main streets and sidewalks, especially at night.

Denver has a large homeless population. Most are harmless, however, some may pose a threat. To be safe, tourists are advised to stay clear of areas where homeless people may reside.

We don’t recommend walking back to your accommodation late at night. This rule doesn’t specifically apply to Denver, it applies to any large city you’re unfamiliar with. Luckily, public transportation in Denver is affordable and easily accessible, and Uber is available all night too!

The Rocky Mountains are a short drive from Denver. If you plan to visit, use caution. Remember, wildlife is never far away. Always prepare before you go on a hike or take up an activity, no matter how short it is!

Bring the necessary supplies, water, and food. Nature is beautiful, but it’s unapologetically brutal if you don’t take it seriously!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Denver

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Day trips from Denver are a great way to explore other areas of Colorado . The state is full of wonder and scenic landscapes just waiting to be discovered! These trips are a great option if you’re spending 3 days in Denver or more! 

Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park and experience the breathtaking landscape of one of America’s most grand mountain ranges! Travel from Denver through Boulder and start your day at Estes Park, the charming town at the entrance of the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Marvel at Long’s Peak, the park’s highest mountain. Admire glacial-carved valleys, filled with aspen and pine trees. Visit the best spots for viewing wildlife, taking pictures, enjoying a short hike, or just relaxing.

During summer, you’ll be able to go up trail ridge road, which leads 13,000 feet up. In winter the road is closed and more time will be spent exploring the valley and its alpine lakes.

Boulder Hike & Beer with Local Guide

Breathe in the fresh mountain air among stunning rock formations and discover the best hiking spots in Boulder! Take a moderate 3-mile hike and explore some of the favorite local trails, perfect for all fitness levels!

Admire the views of the iconic Flatirons, the stunning and slanted sandstone formations near Boulder. Finish your hike with a well deserved cold beer (1 beer is included in the price) or coffee, with some newly-made friends!

Boulder is famous for its craft beer and scenic beauty. If those two things interest you, don’t miss the chance to add this to your 3-day itinerary in Denver!

Breckenridge Mountain Explorer

If you have a car and are up for a Colorado road trip , explore the natural beauty of the Colorado Rockies on a trip to Breckenridge! The drive from Denver to Breckenridge will amaze you! Sit back and relax while someone else navigates the mountain roads for you. Admire the views as you pass the most scenic views of nature.

Start your day with a visit to Red Rocks Amphitheater and enjoy a coffee break. Once you arrive in Breckenridge, you’ll have three hours of free time to explore the city. Spend some time outdoors hiking, skiing, and enjoy a free gondola ride! Stroll the city’s historic Main Street; enjoy a bit of shopping, try out a local restaurant, or visit a craft brewery!

Colorado Gold Rush Mountain and Mine Tour

Discover the exciting history of the 1859 Colorado Gold Rush! Visit the historic town of Central City and follow in the footsteps of gold miners. Learn about the mine’s history compared to modern-day mining techniques.

Visit an authentic ghost town from the boom times and take a tour of a real gold mine! You’ll even get a chance to strike it rich by panning for gold!

Visit Georgetown, where the Victorian architecture from the silver mining days still stands, and enjoy a bit of free time. Grab a drink from the local brewery, shop in one of the local stores, and admire the history of this quaint mountain town!

Small-Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods

Visit two of Colorado’s most majestic parks, the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. First, you’ll visit the Garden of the Gods and enjoy the beauty of the park. Walk around the unique geological area with its colossal red rock formations.

Carry on to the historic town of Manitou Springs and enjoy a bit of free time and lunch. Next, take a drive up Pikes Peak, the place that inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” You’re going to want to have your camera ready for this stop, the scenery will blow you away!

If you’re looking to explore Colorado’s most scenic locations, add this day trip to your Denver itinerary!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Denver itinerary.

What should you include on a 2 day Denver itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these top hotspots: – Denver Central Market – Larimer Square – Red Rocks Park

What’s the best thing to do in Denver with kids?

Treat the family to a game at Coors Park, check out the Denver Pavilions, or spend an afternoon at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

How many days do you need for Denver?

You’ll want enough time to discover Denver’s awesome blend of metropolitan and nearby natural attractions. So, spending about 4-5 days in the area is ideal.

What are the coolest things to see in Denver?

Definitely check out the International Church of Cannabis and Skyline Beer Garden. For a city escape, head to the Denver Botanic Gardens or Red Rocks Park.

We hope you enjoyed our Denver itinerary, we made sure to include the best of the best! With that being said, this city has so much to offer that we couldn’t possibly include it all. If you’re spending 3 days in Denver, this guide will easily fill every single day of your exciting vacation!

Whether you’re looking for an amazing immersion into nature, a day spent shopping, gallery gazing, or craft beer tasting, Denver has it all! Not to mention, it’s perfect for budget travelers who will find plenty of things to do in Denver for free!

The city is totally unique and has a quirky vibe not found in many other US cities! You really can’t go wrong with a trip to the “Mile High City!”

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Sheridan Cahoon

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The Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary 2024 {as per a local}

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission (for which I am deeply grateful) at no additional cost to you.

Planning a trip to Denver, Colorado in 2023? If yes, then read on. In this post, you will find the perfect 3 days in Denver itinerary as written by a local. The best travel tips for your Denver trip.

Denver, also known as the “Mile High City,” has quite the booming tourism industry. In fact, the city sees over 30 million visitors each year. Which is a lot for a small city with a population of less than one million people (in Denver proper, of course)!

But why? What is it about Denver that brings people out in droves?

A large percentage of them come to experience Colorado’s unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities (more on that below!).

Others choose Denver to hold special events, like annual Denver festivals , weddings, and bachelor or bachelorette parties in Denver. Still, others come simply to enjoy all the sports, food, beer, and more that the city has to offer.

No matter the reason, it’s clear why Denver comes up on people’s radars. And while lots of options are great, it can be daunting for a first-timer! So take it from a local, and let me do the hard part for you with this perfect 3 days in Denver itinerary.

Where to Stay in Denver

When it comes to exploring the Mile High City, there is no shortage of amazing accommodation options. For a first-time visitor, I think it is best to stay as centrally located as you can.

It will make getting around from place to place that much easier (plus save you some dough on the transportation costs). Targeting accommodations in neighborhoods like Downtown , The Highlands , River North (also known as RiNo) or Capitol Hill will ensure you are close to all the action!

If you are looking for specific recommendations, here are some of my favorite hotels in Denver, CO:

– Le Meridien Denver Downtown : a great downtown location under the reliable Marriott brand (and they have the city’s tallest open-air rooftop bar!)

– Hotel Teatro : this is Denver’s original boutique hotel, located in the heart of Denver’s music and theater district

– Brown Palace Hotel & Spa : easily Denver’s most luxurious and historic hotel

– The Ramble Hotel : an industrial-chic boutique hotel located in Denver’s River North neighborhood

And much like many cities in the US, Denver also has a healthy home share market. Airbnb is the preferred platform, although VRBO is also available. Be sure to check out the options there as well!

A Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary

Denver itinerary day one: explore downtown denver.

Hello and welcome to Denver! When it comes to completing the perfect itinerary, you can’t possibly miss exploring the city’s downtown area.

Naturally, many of Denver’s main attractions and best bars and restaurants are concentrated here.

You can immediately jump in, start to get a feel for the city, and check some of the more “touristy” things off your list!

Fuel Up for a Big Day

There’s no denying that a big day of sightseeing needs a solid breakfast (and probably coffee) to get you fueled up and sustained through your morning.

And since you’ve got a walking tour on today’s agenda, you’ll especially want a solid breakfast.

In Denver, there is no diner more beloved than Sam’s No 3 . This place is a Denver staple.

Born from humble beginnings in 1927 with only a few seats, to now serving over 3,000 people per day on average! And while you have plenty of your standard diner fare, Sam’s also has a variety of Greek (the owner is from Greece) and Mexican dishes, among others.

The menu is huge, but somehow it’s all delicious! I don’t know how they do it. They are especially famous for their kickin’ green chili.

If you are a foodie, I suggest you take this wonderful Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour . You can try local dishes and it features 5 tastings at top Denver restaurants while learning the history of Denver. It is tons of fun!

Take a Photo Exactly One Mile High

It doesn’t get much more touristy than this, but what better way to commemorate your first visit to the Mile High City, than with a photo taken at exactly one mile high?

The place to make this happen is at the Colorado Capitol Building , just a short walk past the south end of Denver’s famous 16th street mall. You can’t miss the building’s signature golden dome, and yes, it’s made from real gold!

Once you get to the building, find the engraved stair that tells you the exact spot. Then smile for the camera!

Pro Tip: the 16th street mall has a free mall shuttle that runs continuously in both directions. Hop on the mall ride heading south and take it to the last stop. You will be able to see the golden dome easily from the stop, and it’s just a short walk.

SUGGESTION: You can book this walking tour where you can explore the historic landmarks, local favorites, and the city’s must-see highlights with a local guide. It is a really good one!

Denver Free Walking Tour

Did you know almost all cities offer some sort of a free walking tour? It’s a fantastic and totally underutilized way to explore a new city.

You save a little money (tips for guides not included, if you feel inclined), and get out for some exercise and to see the sites. Bonus that you have a guide to provide you with all sorts of additional information!

Check out Denver Free Walking Tour’s near-daily offerings at 10:00 am. Their tour lasts 2-2.5 hours, and the itinerary includes all the key highlights in downtown Denver. Best part is, the tour starting point is the Capitol Building .

Pro Tip: the tour ends at Denver’s reinvigorated Union Station. Be sure and take a look around, it’s a beautiful space! And if you’re ready for lunch, take a short walk over to Illegal Pete’s, a locals favorite spot for a quick casual lunch.

An Evening in Larimer Square

Larimer Square is arguably Denver’s most historically significant block. It’s really the block where Denver began, and served as the town’s main business hub.

And today it is still one of the hearts of the city. It’s beautifully maintained, and adorned with over street twinkling lights.

Depending on the time of year, a variety of banners are also hung in support of various local teams or events. And it’s the perfect place for an all-encompassing first evening in Denver.

Start with dinner at Osteria Marco , one of Denver’s best Italian restaurants. The food is amazing, and the ambiance is like you’ve stepped into a casual Italian eatery.

Afterward, laugh until it hurts at Denver’s premier comedy club, Comedy Works . They attract the best talent in the city. Finally, catch some post-show drinks at The Green Russell . It’s an old-time speakeasy with a fun entrance.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE THIS: Best Hidden Gems in Denver

Denver Itinerary Day Two: Get Outside for Some Colorado Outdoor Recreation

Alright, today we are going to experience one of Colorado’s biggest draws for tourists each year: outdoor recreation. Colorado is a nature lover’s dream destination!

Because of the Rocky Mountains, we have top-notch winter sports (skiing, snowboarding), hiking, mountain biking, white water rafting, and so much more.

You will require the use of a car today, but it will be totally worth it. And you couldn’t possibly fit all of these in a one-day agenda, but options are good. There are so many amazing road trip opportunities from Denver .

Pro Tip: Since Denver is at a higher-than-normal elevation, many visitors experience issues with mild altitude sickness (fatigue, easily winded, bloody nose, etc). Especially if you are going to be active outdoors, be sure and prepare ahead of time to ensure you can enjoy yourself fully while you’re here.

Take a Hike

One of the most beloved outdoor activities for people in Colorado is hiking . I’m talking like expensive boots, getting up at 3 a.m. to hike a 14er kind of love.

And naturally, we have a ton of options, given the geography of our area! Everything from quick and easy hikes to hikes with large elevation gains in short distances, to 14ers (peaks with at least 14,000 feet of elevation), and everything in between.

Note: You can even go hiking to Boulder on a small guided group tour , and they pick you up in Denver. It is a 3-mile hike in the mountains and you end up the day with local beer or coffee.

Other two great options closer to Denver are Red Rocks Park and Deer Creek Canyon . But since you have the car anyway, I suggest you venture further!

A local favorite is taking the hike to Hanging Lake . It’s a short hike, but a steep incline the whole way. And it ends at the most beautiful mountain lake and waterfall. Another alpine lake you can hike to is St Mary’s Glacier

Pro Tip: If you want to visit Hanging Lake , there is a permitting system in place to help maintain the ecosystem. Be sure to plan in advance!

RECOMMENDED: Hiking the Manitou Incline

Rocky Mountain National Park

Seeing over four million visitors a year, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP ) is one of the biggest tourism draws in Colorado. And for good reason!

The park has over 400 square miles of beautifully protected mountains, lakes, foliage , and more.

And there’s so much to do within the park, you could easily spend your entire day here. There’s fishing, camping, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more.

You can also take the scenic Trail Ridge Road drive, also known as the Highway to the Sky.

The entrance to the park is quite reasonably priced as well. A one-day pass costs only $25 per vehicle.

Pro tip: You can easily take this guided full-day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, this easy/moderate 4-mile hike with plenty of opportunity to sit and take in the view or if you have a limited amount of time, there are options such as this Private Rocky Mountain National Park Driving Tour (4-5 hours), this sunrise tour (3 hours) or this half-day trip.

Hit the Slopes

If you’re visiting Denver in the winter, you are in luck. Because you now have the opportunity to take advantage of some of the nation’s best skiing, snowboarding, and more in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

If you’re an avid snow bunny, you can certainly bring your own gear. Or save yourself some trouble and rent at the resorts.

There are plenty of mountain resort towns to choose from in Denver. Some are obviously farther away (and thus difficult for a day trip) than others.

Your best options near Denver include Winter Park (~67 miles), Arapahoe Basin (~64 miles) and Keystone Resort (~70 miles).

Pro Tip: Beware of mountain traffic! If you travel during peak times (especially Friday afternoons, or Sunday evenings), your trip can take you much longer than anticipated. Keep this in mind when planning flights.

Soak in the Hot Springs

Along with all the other natural wonders that make up Colorado’s great outdoors, another perk is the abundance of natural hot springs.

Some are more wild and secluded. Others are more modern with man-made interference. But there’s nothing like soaking in the natural hot springs of Colorado!

One of the best places for this is Glenwood Springs, CO. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Or the newest craze, Iron Mountain , has a variety of pools and temperatures to choose from (even some adults only!).

Or if you’re looking for something closer to Denver, the Indian Hot Springs are like a tropical paradise.

Another Favorite: Snowmobiling in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Denver Itinerary Day Three: Denver Arts and Crafts

It’s your last day in Denver, how sad! You may be surprised to find out that Denver has a bustling arts scene. Whether through traditional mediums like galleries and art studios, or stage shows, or the fine art of making craft beer. Today is going to be a little less touristy (which is a good thing!), but no less fun.

A great send-off after your first (but surely not last) trip to Denver, CO!

Art District on Santa Fe

Denver’s Santa Fe Art District is nationally known and serves as a place for all things arts and culture. This creative community includes hundreds of art studios, galleries, theaters, and more creative businesses. They also host a variety of events like art shows, ballet, “meet the artist” opportunities, and more.

Really, if you’re someone who is into the arts, you won’t find a better happy place. You can spend hours jumping from art gallery to sculpture studio to bookstore and back again.

Pro Tip: Locals flood this district every first Friday of the month, year-round, rain or shine, for the aptly named “First Friday Art Walks” The event spills from the studios and galleries into the streets, alleyways, and more. There are vendors, music, and a great atmosphere.

READ THIS: Most Stunning National Parks in the US

See Why Denver is the Napa Valley of Brewing Beer

Beer is deeply ingrained in Denver’s history. As a state, Colorado consistently produces towards the top of the list annually. I mean, we even have the world’s largest brewery, Coors, right in our backyard in Golden, CO. With over 140 breweries in the Denver metro area, it’s clear to see Denverites love their beer.

This is why visiting a craft brewery (or two, three, or four) during your visit is a great way to experience the local scene. But don’t spend your time focusing solely on the big boys, and make sure and support the local guys.

Some local favorites included Crooked Stave (known for its sour beers), Wynkoop Brewing (Denver brewing institution), and Epic Brewing (with 25+ rotating taps).

But if you’re a serious beer enthusiast who wants to get out into the mountains and sample the best of the Colorado brewing scene, I suggest you book in advance this small-group tour, your group learns the history of brewing in the historic mountain town of mining town at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Your guide shows you some of the top local brewpubs. Enjoy a tasting, find something you’ve never tasted before, and discover new brews you’ll love.

River North (RiNo) Arts District

Yup, that’s right – Denver has TWO different art districts in the city. And while they’re both arts-focused (duh), they still have a very different feel. River North (RiNo to the locals) used to be a very industrialized area. And after quite a few years “up and coming” it has since arrived to be a happening, albeit somewhat hipster, Denver neighborhood.

Much like the Santa Fe Art District, there are plenty of galleries and such to explore here. But you will also find a stunning array of graffiti art as well. And while art is certainly the focus, there are many other draws in RiNo.

Check out one of Denver’s new gourmet food halls, Denver Central Market . Or have some of the best tapas in Denver at Barcelona Wine Bar . And if you’re here for some nightlife, Finn’s Manor is quirky and fun with both indoor and outdoor space.

READ ON: Hiking Up The Manitou Incline in Colorado Springs

Denver’s Best Museums

When it comes to the arts in Denver, the city doesn’t skimp with museum options. Seriously, we have a ton! Some are closer to the city center than others, but if you’re a person who likes museums, it will certainly be worth the extra transportation.

Incorporated in 1900, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the largest natural history museum on this side of Chicago. They often bring in big, worldwide exhibits like Body Worlds.

With a collection of over 70,000 pieces of art, the Denver Art Museum is a local favorite for its rotating exhibits like Dior: From Paris to the World. Or finally, the unique Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum , which is located on the former Lowry Air Force base.

ANOTHER FAVORITE: The Best Hiking Trips in the US

This is a post by guest contributor Kara from the blog Destination: Live Life

Author’s Bio: Kara is the one-woman team behind Destination: Live Life, a travel blog. After fleeing small-town life in Wyoming, she has called Denver, CO home for the last 12+ years. When it comes to travel, she appreciates traveling like a local, and never paying full price for a trip. And when she isn’t living that travel life, she can be found petting every dog that will let her, and laughing (loudly) at any opportunity.

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How to Plan Your Trip to Denver

Welcome to The Mile High City, where 300 days of sunshine, a thriving cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods and natural beauty combine for the world's most spectacular playground. Here are some must-see attractions and tips to plan your trip to Denver. 

Airport Rail Service

Getting to and from Denver International Airport is easy thanks to rail service that delivers visitors to the heart of the city, arriving at  Denver Union Station , the city’s transportation hub. The completely renovated 1914 Beaux-Arts train station has become a hotspot for locals and visitors alike with its boutique hotel, locally owned restaurants, an ice cream parlor,  The Terminal Bar  and the elegant  Cooper Lounge . 

Walkable Downtown

The city's walkable downtown is home to Larimer Square   and historic  LoDo  (Lower Downtown), where Victorian brick buildings have been transformed into chef-driven restaurants, specialty boutiques, art galleries and cocktail lounges.

Bike Friendly

Denver is a paradise for cyclists with bike lanes and paved paths that connect to hundreds of additional miles of dirt trails. 

Food and Drink

The city’s award-winning chefs are known for innovative cuisine and farm-to-table dining at dozens of must-try restaurants . If you’re traveling with children, check out these restaurants for kids , or if you’d like to enjoy the outdoors, try these patio dining options . And don't miss the city's emerging food halls , catering to a multitude of tastes. Denver is also an acclaimed craft-beer capital with more than 150 breweries in the metro area. Let the self-guided Denver Beer Trail be your pathway into the creative brewery scene. If beer isn’t your thing, dozens of urban wineries and distilleries will keep your spirits up!

Denver Art Museum

Arts, Culture and Music

Art lovers will immediately fall in love with The Mile High City, from the  giant blue bear   that greets visitors at the Colorado Convention Center to the bold architecture of  Denver Art Museum , which recently celebrated the reopening of the Martin Building (formerly known as the North Building). First opened in 1971, the building was designed by Italian architect Gio Ponti and Denver-based James Sudler Associates. The building has been fully renovated with expanded gallery space, plus stunning views of the city skyline and Rocky Mountains.

Right next door, the  Clyfford Still Museum  tells the story of this famed abstract expressionist, and within walking distance are the  Museum of Contemporary Art Denver ,   Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art ,  History Colorado Center   and the  Molly Brown House & Museum . For a truly unforgettable experience for all ages, check out  Meow Wolf Denver's   Convergence Station ,  the Santa Fe, New Mexico-based arts and entertainment company’s new permanent installation. Discover immersive, mind-bending art across the four alien worlds. And don’t miss the vivid street art in the River North Art District (RiNo) , Art District on Santa Fe and other creative neighborhoods. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre anchors Denver's famed music scene. You can find every genre well represented in music venues  all over town. 

Western Heritage

Denver is proud of its Western heritage and it remains an important part of the city’s story. From the early days of the Wild West and the Gold Rush to the present-day entrepreneurs, ranchers and farmers, Colorado embraces that authentic Western spirit. Visitors to Denver can shop at  Rockmount Ranch Wear ,  where the snap-button cowboy shirt was invented. Rock stars continue to shop there today. Take a day trip to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave   and the town of  Golden  where  Coors Brewery  is located.

Events and Activities

To find out about events, activities and festivals during your stay, check out the Denver 365 Event Calendar .

With more than 13,000 hotel rooms in the downtown area and nearly 51,000 around the city, there’s plenty to choose from at any price point.

VISIT DENVER staff

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Denver Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend in Denver, Colorado

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

A weekend in Denver, Colorado is a perfect quick getaway! The Mile High City boasts exciting attractions, abundant Colorado nature and a thriving Denver craft beer scene. To help fellow travelers experience the best of the city, we created the perfect Denver Itinerary that includes all of the highlights!

A Weekend in Denver, Colorado

When I lived in nearby Boulder, weekend trips to Denver were frequent adventures. Although the two cities are close enough that we didn’t need to stay in Denver, we would often get a hotel as a staycation (especially if we were watching a game or attending a concert!). Every time we would plan a trip to Denver, Colorado, we would seek out new things to do, places to go and foods to eat. 

It is fair to say that throughout the years we have spent many weekends in Denver discovering the absolute best of the city. We can tell you, from personal experience, that a weekend trip to Denver, Colorado is a perfect place to vacation. In fact, it is still one of our favorite US cities to visit – and we highlight the best places to see in our Denver Itinerary!

3 Days in Denver Itinerary

Our Denver weekend itinerary is designed for people who want to make the most of their trip with a variety of experiences and adventures. Rather than detailing a weekend in a Denver 2-Day Itinerary, we have outlined 3 perfect days in Denver – assuming you will arrive Friday or Saturday and stay until Sunday or Monday evening.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Denver?

Most travelers wonder, How many days should I spend in Denver, CO? Personally, we think 3 days in Denver allows just enough time to experience the absolute best of the city!

On a 3-day trip to Denver visitors can enjoy the best sights, as well as venture beyond the urban limits to nearby attractions. Travelers spending a long weekend in Denver (and guests arriving during the week, as well) can use our 3-Day Denver Itinerary to easily plan their trip.

That said, if you are trying to plan One Day in Denver or need ideas for a Denver 5-Day Itinerary, we have tips for you as well! At the end of the article, we offer suggestions for visiting Denver in one day and how to plan longer stays in Colorado. Additionally, we provide advice for how to get there, where to stay and what to pack for your Denver trip.  

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your Denver Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables !

Our Perfect Weekend in Denver Itinerary

Use our 3-Day Itinerary for Denver as a day-by-day guide for your weekend trip. Our trip plan is ideal for couples, groups of friends and solo travelers, but we also include tips throughout our 3-Day Itinerary around Denver for families traveling with kids.

 Save, Pin or Bookmark our Denver Weekend Travel Itinerary to plan your trip to Colorado!

Day 1: Discover Downtown Denver and LoDo

On Day 1 of you Weekend Denver trip itinerary, get checked into your accommodations (suggestions below) and set out to discover Denver’s vibrant downtown.

Denver City Center

On your weekend getaway to Denver, explore the sights and tastes of Downtown Denver. While we highly encourage wandering in any city, we are highlighting a few of the must-see Denver sights that visitors see. 

16th Street Mall

Start your 3 Day Denver Itinerary discovering the outdoor shopping promenade, 16th Street Mall. The 1-mile-long street, which is lined with shops, restaurants and an astounding 42 outdoor cafes, sits in the heart of Denver. A trip to downtown Denver would not be complete without navigating your way along this famous street.

Pro Tip : A free shuttle bus – called the MallRide – transports passengers up and down 16th Street Mall, conveniently stopping at every intersection along the way. 

Denver Sightseeing at South End of 16th Street Mall

At the south end of the 16th Street Mall, visitors will find some of the best Denver attractions that are well worth seeking out. 

Denver Civic Center Park

A vast green space ringed by stately buildings, the Civic Center Park is a fantastic place to see on your weekend trip to Denver, Colorado. Marked with fountains, statues, benches and summertime blooms, the park is the site of many top Denver events. 

The Denver Art Museum

On the south side of the park is the renowned Denver Art Museum. One of the largest art museums in the United States, the DAM boasts a diverse collection of artworks from around the globe – but specializes in American Indian art. 

We recommend visiting museums on Day 3 of your Weekend Getaway Denver Trip – but take a moment to at least gaze at the architecturally exceptional DAM buildings while exploring on Day 1. 

Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Dating to the early 1900s, the Denver Cathedral features two soaring 210-foot spires and an astounding 75 stained-glass windows. 

Colorado State Capitol Building

The Colorado Capitol Building was completed in 1894 and still houses government offices today. The real gold dome is a nod to the Colorado Gold Rush. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can partake in one of the guided Capitol Tours – it’s one of the interesting free things to do in Denver, CO!

Denver Attractions at North End of 16th Street Mall

At the north end of the 16th Street Mall, visitors will find a few more Denver highlights!

Museum of Contemporary Art

The Denver Museum of Contemporary Art features a continuously rotating collection of modern artwork – so repeat Denver visitors always have a reason to return! 

Denver Union Station

A must-see in Denver, Union Station is the city’s transportation hub – as it has been since it opened in 1881. In addition to the trains and buses that buzz through Union Station in Denver, the station itself has been renovated to host shops, restaurants, bars and even a hotel. 

The train station façade is especially spectacular at night when the famous Denver Union Station sign glows red. 

Lunch on Day 1 of Your Denver Weekend Trip Itinerary

If you get an early start to your weekend trip to Colorado and are in Denver for lunch, stop at Illegal Pete’s on 16th Street and Wazee for a bite to eat. The local Denver restaurant chain excels at making Mission Style burritos. 

It ranks as one of our all-time favorite spots for incredibly delicious burritos!

LoDo Denver

LoDo – or Lower Downtown – is the oldest neighborhood in the city and one of the best places to visit in Denver.

The Lower Downtown district dates to the 1850s – and throughout history it has seen many changes; from the introduction of railway traffic to serving as Denver’s Chinatown to devolving into a derelict area of disrepute. In the late 1980s, LoDo got a facelift and is now a mix of historic dwellings, modern structures and entertainment complexes (such as Coors Field and McGregor Square).

Things To Do in Denver LoDo

There are many fun things to do in Denver LoDo district. In fact, what the LoDo district is now best known for – and the reason to include it on your Weekend in Denver, Colorado Itinerary – is the jubilant nightlife. There are ample dining options and a slew of places to have a few pints of locally produced Colorado craft beer.

Before you dive into Denver nightlife, however, there are two must-see places in LoDo that travelers should make a point of visiting: Larimer Square and the Tattered Cover. 

Larimer Square

Marking the historic commercial center of Denver, Larimer Square was created in the year 1858. Through the years, the square has been transformed and revitalized and today it is features boutique shops and specialty restaurants. 

Tattered Cover Bookshop

The Tattered Cover Bookstore opened as a small shop in 1971. Today, however, it boasts multiple locations and ranks as one of the top independent bookstores in the USA. The Denver location regularly features author signings and other literary events. 

Get a formal introduction to LoDo on a guided walking tour !

Where to Eat in Denver LoDo

On the first night of your weekend in Denver, CO, dine in LoDo at one of the best restaurants. 

Wynkoop Brewing Company Denver Restaurant

Wynkoop Brewing Company is a Denver institution and our top recommendation for food and drink in LoDo. We think it is one of the best places to visit in Denver to understand the city’s celebrated history with craft beer (and the food is pretty fabulous, too!).

Wynkoop was the first brewery on the scene in LoDo, opening in 1988. Featuring unique local brews and a jovial environment, they offer a beer pairing menu and tasty food offerings. Try the Bison Burger and the Beer Cheese Soup!

More Denver Restaurants in LoDo

If you are looking for something a step up from bar food for your Denver, Colorado trip, check out Woodie Fisher, a historic fire station converted into an upscale restaurant. Another option is Mercantile Dining and Provision, which is a chic spot serving fresh and innovative fare.

Bars in LoDo

Denver has a solid reputation as a craft beer city – and sampling some of the local brews is a must on any trip! In addition to Wynkoop, there are heaps of other breweries that have taprooms in downtown Denver.

You can create your own Denver craft beer pub crawl (use this Denver Beer Trail map ) – or join a highly-rated LoDo Craft Beer Tour .

For cocktails in Denver, there is no better place to go than The Cruise Room. The iconic and glamorous bar, which is located in the LoDo landmark Oxford Hotel, dates to 1933 – and is considered to be Denver’s longest continuously running bar.

Pro Tip : Another fun way to explore the bar scene is on a LoDo Haunted Pub Tour that features ghost stories while sipping suds. And, if you are creating a Denver Itinerary with Kids, consider this fun-for-all-ages Haunted Tour . 

Day 2: Local Denver Market and Regional Exploration

On Day 2 of your 3-Day Weekend in Denver Itinerary, spend the morning at a local market, then venture outside of the city limits to explore one of the nearby attractions.

Union Station Farmers Market

Open on Saturdays during the summer months, the Union Station Farmers Market is a small, community market and one of the cool places to visit in Denver.

The non-profit, zero-waste market is focused on farm fresh produce and embodies the spirit of supporting local farmers and businesses. In addition to the produce available at the market, some vendors sell ready made food – like tacos and baked goods – making it a good first stop of the day.

Pro Tip : If your trip does not coincide with a Saturday when the market is taking place, no worries! Instead, go to Union Station for breakfast at the oh-so-popular Snooze. Known for their pancakes (like Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes) and eggs benedict (such as the Bella Bella Benny), Snooze is one of the top brunch eateries in Denver!

Venture Outside on a Day Trip from Denver

In the afternoon, go on an adventure outside of the city limits for the day on one of the quick weekend trips from Denver. There are numerous nearby destinations that can certainly entertain visitors, but we think a half-day trip to Boulder is the best choice!

Boulder – Hike, Shop, Drink, Eat

The nearby city of Boulder is easy to get to on a trip to Denver, Colorado. Located 30 miles northwest of Denver at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder ranks as one of the most beautiful cities in the USA. Although now exceptionally affluent, Boulder still clings to its hippie roots. With ample outdoor spaces and a picture-perfect main pedestrian thoroughfare, Pearl Street, Boulder is a must-see destination.  

Top attractions in Boulder are the many hiking trails that climb into The Flatirons, shopping on Pearl Street, sampling the cuisine and drinking locally produced craft beer.

Denver visitors with a car can easily plan their own day trip to Boulder. Travelers without a car can take a bus (1 hour) or get an Uber , but the fee for the one-way ride can easily exceed $100. Another fun option to see Boulder and get in a hike is to join the Boulder Hike and Beer Tour .

Pro Tip : Boulder is also home to the University of Colorado, which has a great campus to explore. When on the CU campus, be sure to pop into The Sink, a Boulder institution that serves amazing burgers, incredible pizzas and a huge selection of Colorado microbrews.

Other Denver Day Trips

While Boulder is our top pick for a day trip from Denver, there are many other nearby destinations. All of these destinations can be reached by car, but we are highlighting the top-rated tours so that visitors can just sit back, relax and enjoy the Colorado scenery.

Foothills Explorer Tour: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Lookout Mountain, Golden

On this 4-hour small-group tour from Denver, explore the scenic landscapes surrounding the city. Visit the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, take in majestic Rocky Mountain views and pass through quaint western towns. Get the details!

Pro Tip: Some travelers visiting Denver in 3 days may already have plans to attend a concert at the outstanding outdoor Red Rocks Amphitheater. Visitors without a car can use the Red Rocks shuttle bus to get from Denver to the famous concert venue. 

Full-Day, Small-Group Tour: Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods

Without a doubt, Pikes Peak and Gardens of the Gods are two of the most incredible natural wonders of Colorado – and this all-day Denver tour covers them both! At the Garden of the Gods, stroll through stunning rock formations, then stop at the historic town of Manitou Springs for lunch and, finally, make the steep ascent to Pikes Peak Summit for breathtaking views. Find out more!

Rocky Mountain National Park: Full Day Denver Tour

The Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses an expansive 400 square miles of nature. It is one of the most beautiful parks in America – and you can see it on a day trip from Denver! On this full-day trip from Denver, visitors get to savor the epic views from Trail Ridge Road and, hopefully, see some wildlife – like elk, moose and maybe even black bears – along the route. Book it now!

Continental Divide, Colorado’s Famous 14ers and Mount Evans Scenic Byway Tour

Spend a day among stunning and spellbinding scenery in the Colorado Mountains. Join a tour through the Rocky Mountains to view the Colorado peaks that exceed 14,000 feet along the Continental Divide. Enjoy the impressive landscapes as you travel on the highest paved road in America, the Mt Evans Scenic Byway. Book your spot!

Evening Entertainment: Cheer on a Denver Sports Team

Travelers wondering what to do in Denver this weekend should check out which Colorado sports team is playing at home! 

Watching a sports event is one of the top things to do on a Denver weekend trip. Often when we planned a weekend vacation in Denver, our trip was based around watching Colorado Rockies baseball. While the game was the highlight for us – we built an entire itinerary of what to do in Denver for a weekend around it!

Whether you are traveling to Denver as a family, couple, group of friends or solo, attending a sporting event is one of the best Denver vacation ideas!

Denver Teams

Denver is home to five professional sports teams: Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball, Denver Broncos football, Denver Nuggets basketball, Colorado Avalanche hockey and Colorado Rapids soccer.

With so many pro sports teams, there is a good chance that there will be at least one game during your trip – which would be a fantastic addition to your Denver vacation itinerary. The stadiums – Coors Field (Rockies), Pepsi Center (Nuggets and Avalanche) and Empower Field at Mile High Stadium (Broncos) – are all located in downtown Denver, making it easy to catch a game during your trip.

Pro Tip: If your Denver, Colorado weekend trip does not coincide with an at-home sporting event, spend the evening in the Capitol Hill district. The diverse neighborhood offers loads of fun weekend activities in Denver. Check out the street art, go to a live show at the historic Ogden Theater, feast on vegetarian fare at City O’ City, drink at the classic watering hole Charlie Brown’s or stop in a Colorado cannabis shop.

Day 3: Denver, Colorado Culture

On the last day of your Denver, Colorado vacation itinerary, experience the unique Denver culture by visiting a museum, district or park – or all three!

Feast at a Denver Institution

Start your day with a hearty and filling breakfast from a downtown landmark, Sam’s No. 3. Established in 1927, the diner boasts a huge menu – with enormous portions to match. Try the Kitchen Sink Burrito (made famous when it was features on the food show Diners, Drive Ins and Dives) and a loaded Bloody Mary. 

Get Outdoors in Denver

Spend the rest of your morning outdoors working off all the food you just ingested. There are numerous city parks that you can include on your itinerary for Denver, Colorado – and we are highlighting a few of the best. 

Denver Botanic Garden

Stroll the magnificent and lush grounds of the Denver Botanical Gardens. The urban oasis was founded in 1951 and ranks as one of the top botanical gardens in the United States for its collection of plants and diverse gardens. Tropical plants are housed in the conservatory and artwork is found throughout the garden. Get tickets in advance!

Denver City Parks

However, if you want to go to a free park in Denver, there are a few good options right in the heart of the city. 

Set off on a walk through Cheesman Park, which is a wide open space offering skyline views and mountain vistas – and is good for walking, jogging and picnicking. 

Denver City Park features intertwining trails, lakes and a multitude of other cultural attractions – including museums and the zoo (which we talk about more in a minute). 

South of Denver is the lovely Washington Park. With expansive lawns, walking trails, lakes and a boat house, it’s a top Denver outdoor destination. Visitors can make a day of it by also spending time at the nearby Old South Gaylord Street Shops, which is an entire block of cute boutique shops and cafes. 

Rocky Mountain Arsenal and Wildlife Refuge

Alternately, if you have a car, consider a visit to the amazing (and free!)  Rocky Mountain Arsenal and Wildlife Refuge . Located close to the DEN Airport, the nature area contains many bison, deer and marmots! Take the 11 mile drive through the park and then walk along one of the several trekking trails.

If you are planning a Family Itinerary to Denver, Colorado, perhaps consider spending the morning at the Denver Zoo instead. The zoo, which was established in 1896, features natural enclosures and has won numerous awards for its environmental accomplishments.

There is also an aquarium in Denver, the Downtown Aquarium, which is a state-of-the-art facility with engaging sea exhibits and a good kid-friendly indoor activity in Denver. 

Pro Tip: For a thrilling way to spend a day in Denver outdoors, put Elitch Gardens on your Denver trip planner! The fun amusement park features roller coasters and water slides.

RiNo District

Denver’s RiNo District – or River North Art District – is an exciting neighborhood to discover. Edgy, yet charming, the RiNo District is the artistic enclave of Denver. Boasting factories-turned-art-galleries and warehouses repurposed into hip breweries, there is plenty to see and do in RiNo.

One of the best things to do on your Denver 3 Day Itinerary it to explore the incredible displays of Street Art in the RiNo district. Visitors can freely wander the area to find works of art, but joining a locally guided Street Art tour ensures you find the best murals – as well as learn about the history of street art in Denver.

Lunch on Day 3 of your Denver, Colorado Weekend Trip

Eating is one of the best things to do in Denver for a weekend – and we have one more must-eat place to visit: The Denver Central Market. 

The fun and vibrant Denver Central Market in RiNo is a top place to eat during your Denver, Colorado weekend vacation. 

The gourmet food hall hosts several vendors serving a delicious array of local favorites. We highly recommend grazing on food from several vendors to get a good taste of all that is on offer. That said, don’t miss the pizza at Vero Italiano, the meatball sub from The Local Butcher and a sweet treat from the Izzio Bakery. 

Denver Museums

In the last hours of your Denver trip, spend some time in one of the many museums in Denver. Art museums, like the Denver Art Museum, Clyfford Still Museum, the Contemporary Art Museum and the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art, are top choices for art lovers.  

The History Colorado Center and Molly Brown House Museum are interesting for history buffs. However, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is likely the most entertaining for kids and a top pick if you are planning a trip to Denver, Colorado with family.

Not a museum, per se, but the Meow Wolf Denver immersive art experience is a fascinating way to spend an afternoon in Denver, Colorado. With interactive props and a story line, visitors are encouraged to use their imagination as they make their way through the stimulating rooms. 

Pro Tip : If museums are a focus in your Denver in a Weekend trip plan, consider buying a money-saving pass. The Mile High Culture Pass includes six of our recommended museums – plus the Botanical Gardens – for one low price! Buy your combo all-in-one ticket here!

More Denver Itineraries

Still trying to decide how many days in Denver, Colorado for your trip? We have tips that will help you plan a trip to Denver!

Our outlined weekend guide to Denver is the best way to spend 3 perfect days in Denver. However, we know some visitors are limited to just 1 day in Denver, while other travelers are looking for activities to include in a longer Colorado trip itinerary. We are offering our top suggestions for both shorter and longer trips to Denver so that you can plan your ultimate trip!

1 Day Itinerary Denver

Planning what to do in Denver for a day is difficult – there are just so many choices! Visitors planning a Denver 1 day trip will want to plan an concise itinerary that features sights and attractions located in close proximity. 

How To Plan a Trip to Denver in a Day

In order to create your ideal Denver 1-Day Itinerary, we recommend rearranging the activities outlined in our Weekend in Colorado Trip Plan to include the most interesting activities.

That said, it would be easy to simply see all of the attractions and sights from Day 1 and 3 in our above Denver 3-Day Itinerary.

For example, to see the best of Denver in 1 day, start by visiting the best sights in Denver in Civic Center Park – and pop into the Art Museum for a quick look at the Native American artwork. Then, walk up the 16th Street Mall – stopping for lunch at Illegal Pete’s. Continue north to Union Station, making stops along the route at Larimer Square and the Tattered Cover bookshop. In the late afternoon, we explore more of LoDo or see the street art in RiNo. Next, catch a baseball game and, afterwards, a few pints at Wynkoop Brewery.

Alternate Denver Itinerary 1 Day – Tour

Another stress-free and fun way to plan one day in Denver is to let a tour guide plan it for you! On a Best of Denver Tour, participants learn about the history and architecture of downtown Denver, go on a short hike at Red Rocks Amphitheater and Park, visit Meow Wolf and then end the day seeking out street art in RiNo. Book this tour!

2 Day Itinerary Denver

On 2-day weekend trips to Denver, Colorado, visitors can fit quite a bit of sightseeing into an itinerary. In fact, we have devised the perfect way to create a Denver, Colorado vacation trip plan. 

Planning a Trip for Two Days in Denver

It is fairly easy to create an ideal 2-Day Denver Itinerary. We recommend simply using Days 1 and 3 from our outlined 3-Day Denver Itinerary – eliminating the day trip outside of the city. In our opinion, there just is not enough time in a 2 Days in Denver Itinerary to venture outside of the city. Instead, stick to a downtown Denver vacation. 

Alternate Denver Itinerary 3 Days

While we think our Denver Itinerary for 3 Days is the best way to visit the area, we realize that some guests will want to spend the entire weekend in the city, foregoing the option to take a day trip.

How To Plan a 3 Day Itinerary: Denver, Colorado

Visitors who want to create a 3 Days in Denver Itinerary that does not include a day trip can easily do so. There is so much to see and do in downtown Denver! In fact, there are enough listed activities in Day 3 of our Denver trip plan that visitors could easily spread the sightseeing over two days instead of trying to fit it all into one day.

On a 3 day trip to Denver, follow Day 1 of our long weekend in Denver trip plan. On Day 2, visit museums and parks on the south side of the city. Then, on Day 3, visit City Park, the Zoo and RiNo District. 

4 Day Denver Itinerary

A Denver 4-Day Itinerary allows for much more Denver, Colorado sightseeing! If you are still unsure of how many days to spend in Denver and can swing four days, we highly recommend it!

How To Create a Denver, Colorado 4 Day Itinerary

A Denver, Colorado trip planner for 4 days is pretty easy to create using our 3 day itinerary around Denver as a base. We recommend following Days 1 and 2 as outlined in our 3-day trip to Denver. Then, use the activities from Day 3 and spread them over two days of city sightseeing.

For example, create a Denver Itinerary for 4 days by spending Day 3 exploring RiNo in the morning and going to Elitch Gardens in the afternoon. Then on Day 4, start the day by visiting the Botanical Gardens or go to the Zoo, then go to museums in the afternoon.

5 Day Denver Itinerary

A Denver Itinerary for 5 days allows for a lot more flexibility and the ability to see more of the surrounding region! We have devised the perfect way to spend 5 days in Denver. 

How To Plan a Denver, Colorado 5 Day Itinerary

The best way to plan a 5 Day Colorado Itinerary is to follow our above suggestions for how to spend 4 days in Denver, then on your last day, go on another adventure outside of the city center.

For example, if you included a trip to Boulder from Denver in your itinerary, go on a second trip to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods on the last day of your trip.

However, if you don’t want to go so far, check out a few more districts close to downtown. Consider spending time in the affluent Cherry Creek neighborhood on the southeast side of the city for some spectacular shopping. Alternatively, go north of downtown to LoHi for incredible restaurants. Postino (one of our favorite eateries hailing from Phoenix)  and Little Man Ice Cream are our top picks!

Planning a Trip to Denver, Colorado

We have shared our advice on what to see and do in Denver – but we still have a few more tips that will help you easily plan a trip to Denver, Colorado. 

Below, we share need-to-know details for how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. 

As you begin to make your plans and reservations, staying organized is key! We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables – to keep track of your vacation details!

How to Get to Denver, Colorado

The first step in planning a trip to Denver, Colorado is deciding how to get there. Most Denver visitors arrive by plane via the Denver International Airport (which is nicknamed DIA, but uses DEN as the airport code).

The airport is serviced by more than 20 airlines that have routes to more than 200 destinations. Start your search for the best prices on airfare at our go-to resource for airline tickets, SkyScanner !

Denver Airport (DIA) to Downtown Denver

The Denver Airport is located about 25 miles from downtown Denver – so you will need to consider how you will travel to Denver from the airport.

The convenient A Line Commuter Train is a good way to get from DIA to Denver city center, but there are also buses, shuttles and private transfers, which can be booked in advance . Booking private transfer may cost less than the train if traveling with a group of people…and is possibly even cheaper than hopping into a Uber.

Car Rental for your Denver, Colorado Trip

While we do not think a car is necessary for your 3 days trip to Denver, Colorado, it can be nice to have your own wheels (especially if you plan on exploring beyond the city center on your own). With your own vehicle, you will be able to more freely explore the sites and attractions of the Rocky Mountain region. 

Before booking a car for your weekend trip to Denver, Colorado, be sure to read our top tips for saving money on a car rental !

Where To Stay in Denver For a Weekend

Even though I lived in Boulder, we often spent weekends in Denver – and stayed in downtown Denver hotels or Airbnb Apartments to make it feel like a true weekend getaway. For a weekend trip to Denver, we think the best place to stay is in the heart of downtown.

Westin Downtown Denver

We stayed in the Denver downtown Westin on more than one occasion. Centrally located and outfitted with top amenities – it is the perfect hotel for Denver weekend trips.

What we liked best about staying at the hotel on a downtown Denver trip is the 2 swimming pools, an on-site bar and restaurant and comfy beds, some of the rooms have mountain views. Check availability!

Brown Palace Hotel

An iconic hotel in the heart of downtown Denver, the luxurious Brown Palace Hotel is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Dating to 1892, the Brown Palace offers guests a timeless experience with modern conveniences.

In addition to the hotel’s high-end amenities, the property boasts six bars and restaurants and a phenomenal spa. The Brown Palace is a top pick for a romantic couples weekend in Denver. Check rates for your stay!

Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown

We have actually not stayed at the Hotel Indigo, but the location is ideal, the reviews are outstanding and we think it would make a great base for a weekend in Denver!

The chic hotel is located just a 5-minute walk to Union Station A Line (which connects the city to the airport) – but guests really love it for the stylish ambiance! Find out more!

Hostel Fish

Although we prefer to stay in private accommodations, budget and solo travelers may enjoy staying in hostels – and Hostel Fish in LoDo gets rave reviews! In addition to the superb location, what makes the fashionable hostel fantastic for a weekend trip to Denver is the on-site bar, fun dorm rooms and a shared kitchen. Additionally, they host organized activities. Check rates!

Use our tip for booking the best accommodations at the best price – and then start your search on Booking.com – like we do!

What To Pack for Your Trip To Denver

We have a few final travel tips for your Denver, Colorado Itinerary…what to pack! 

Your packing list for your trip to Denver will ultimately depend on the season and which activities you plan to include in your Denver Itinerary. That said, we have a few specific packing hacks for your Denver trip – and you can find all the best packing advice on our Ultimate Packing List !

Layered Clothing for Your Denver Trip

Denver is called the Mile High City because it is, in fact, located one mile above sea level. Being at that elevation means that sunny days are very hot, nights are almost always cool, and the weather in Denver can change abruptly! Trust us on this one, when you consider what to pack for Denver, you will want to bring a hoodie or jacket – even when visiting Denver in the summer.

Weather Appropriate Gear for Your Denver Weekend

Don’t let the weather ruin your Denver weekend itinerary! Regardless of the time of year of your Denver trip, you will need to be prepared for the elements. Don’t forget a warm hat for the winter, a packable rain jacket for the spring, sunscreen for the summer and a lightweight jacket for the autumn! You will also want a great day bag to organize and protect all of your essential, everyday travel items .

Comfortable Shoes for Your Trip to Denver

Denver is a great city to explore on foot – and our Denver trip itinerary covers some serious ground! Be sure to pack a comfortable pair of city walking shoes ! I like Skechers or casual Columbia shoes , which are great for the city – and will be alright for some hikes in Boulder (but if you plan on a more extensive hike, you will want hiking shoes !). Kris wears his Merrell trail shoes for both city and trail walking.

Travel Camera for Your Weekend in Denver Itinerary

Denver is a clean and beautiful city – so bring a great camera to capture the sights! While a Canon Powershot point-and-shoot is probably fine for the city, we highly recommend using a DSLR camera with a good lens to capture landscape shots outside of the city center. We carry a DSLR Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens . Not only is the camera easy to use, but it comes bundled with tons of accessories – which is why it is a perfect budget camera for beginner photographers!

Travel Insurance for Your Denver, Colorado Vacation

With Trip insurance, you may be protected in the event of delayed flights, lost luggage or a cancelled trip due to injury or illness . Find out more about coverage and rates for your weekend Denver trip at World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Denver ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: Is there anything you would add to our Denver Itinerary? What are your favorite things to do in in Denver, Colorado? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below!

Planning To Visit Other Top Destinations in the USA? 

When planning a trip in the USA, a weekend in Denver is a fabulous choice. If you are looking for more amazing US Destinations (or Underrated US Spots ) we can help!

Get inspiration from our guide of the Best USA Weekend Trips this Year !

See our detailed guides to top US cities like DC , Seattle ,  Chicago , New York City ,  San Francisco , and  Boston.

Looking for more laid-back cities like Denver? Portland , Nashville , Austin , Bend , Savannah , and San Diego are a few of our favorites! 

Planning a road trip in America? Check out our tips for road tripping along the California Coast , the Oregon Coast or Columbia River Gorge and the beautiful state of Montana . 

Find many more great places to visit on our Travel Guides USA  page!

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Denver   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its outdoor offerings, its city life isn't one to pass up. Denver is home to numerous must-sees from museums and galleries to restaurants and breweries. Spend a few hours in Meow Wolf to experience an interactive and

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit in the fall for Glow at the Gardens, a Halloween festival complete with stunning (and spooky) light displays and epic pumpkin art. – Leilani Osmundson

The Denver Botanic Gardens' 24 acres feature a whopping 50 gardens for visitors to explore. This expansive facility in downtown Denver's Cheesman Park treats travelers to a variety of different environments, from a traditional Japanese garden (complete with bonsai trees) to the South African Plaza blooming with exotic plants like asparagus fern and torch lilies. Meanwhile, art aficionados will also appreciate the gardens thanks to the numerous sculptures that grace the grounds; the facility also plays host to touring exhibits that have included works by such artists as Stephen Talasnik and Dale Chihuly.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an essential experience in Denver. There's no such thing as a bad seat, either; in fact, the best views are in the back, where you can see stunning sunset views over the red rocks and city skyline. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

With its excellent views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of hiking trails and cinnamon-hued sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks Park is a big draw for outdoors enthusiasts. Occupying 700-some acres, this impressive park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating geographic transition between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. If you only have a short amount of time here, stretch your legs along the Trading Post Trail; this nearly 1 ½-mile-long path weaves through the rust-colored buttes, making for some spectacular scenery. Before you head out, travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center, which features information on the park’s history and trails.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Denver Museum of Nature & Science

With exhibits featuring everything from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science inspires learning in the young and young at heart. This impressive facility houses artifacts pertaining to a variety of scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology and space science. Some of the more popular displays include the wildlife exhibit, which includes more than 90 habitat scenes containing information on animals from around the world, from Alaska to Australia. Meanwhile, the hands-on Space Odyssey area introduces travelers to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond. 

Recent visitors said the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a great place for families. A few reviewers who were not traveling with children said the museum may not be as engaging for adults as it is for kids because of the elementary nature of the displays. Many recent travelers were particularly impressed with the gems and minerals exhibit, which features artifacts like an 8-pound nugget of crystallized gold discovered in Breckenridge in 1887.

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Denver's Union Station Denver's Union Station free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Have breakfast at Snooze (a local chain), but get there early – there's almost always a line because the food is that good. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Denver's Union Station serves a dual purpose: it's a working public transit station and a highly-praised dining and shopping center. The station was a huge success when it first opened to the public in 1881, providing railroad service until the center of the building caught fire in 1894. The architecture from the 1914 redevelopment remains, and today, it's home to an Amtrak hub and a bus concourse. Located in the hip Lower Downtown neighborhood (aka LoDo), the station also houses multiple dining options and boutiques, as well as  The Crawford Hotel .

Meow Wolf Denver Meow Wolf Denver

U.S. News Insider Tip: Plan to spend several hours (at least two) here if you're hoping to see everything, and remember as you explore that there is an underlying storyline that connects all the exhibits and includes a mystery for visitors to unravel. – Leilani Osmundson

If you’re a fan of immersive art installations, you’ll probably enjoy Meow Wolf Denver, which is best described as a contemporary art museum, a haunted house, an amusement park and a film set all rolled into one 90,000-square-foot space. There are several Meow Wolf locations around the U.S., including Las Vegas and Santa Fe, New Mexico . Denver’s iteration is spread across four stories and features more than 70 distinctive installations that feature colorful lights, sounds and interactive displays. The largest permanent installation is the Convergence Station, a “multiverse transit station.”

Denver Zoo Denver Zoo

Modeled after a Kenyan nature preserve, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including tigers, black rhinos, kangaroos and orangutans. Sprawling across 80 acres of City Park, this impressive facility boasts a number of ways to view our furry, feathered and reptilian friends. Head to Predator Ridge, the recreated African savanna, to see hyenas, lions and African dogs roam, watch monkeys swing from tree branches at Primate Panorama or catch a glimpse of colorful critters like Panamanian golden frogs and green tree pythons at the Tropical Discovery center. You can also overload on cute during a visit to the nursery and take on a ride on the zoo's train and carousel.

While you're here, many travelers highly recommend timing your visit around feeding times, during which staff offers educational lectures about the zoo's residents. Keep in mind that this is a large facility; you'll want to budget plenty of time to see all the animals.

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Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pay attention if you're in the flash flood simulation room – you might get wet! – Leilani Osmundson

Visit the AZA-accredited Downtown Aquarium to see more than 500 species of animals across a variety of ecosystems both underwater and on land (including tigers). In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also boasts a Stingray Reef touch tank, a 4D theater, scuba and snorkel experiences, a shark cage experience, and in-person and virtual animal encounters. Kids can participate in a plethora of activities from a fun overnight stay to a five-day summer camp. Day programs for children include "Marine Biologist for a Day," which includes encounters with exotic species from the deep sea, as well as "Zoologist for a Day," where kids can learn how to handle and train animals that live outside the ocean.

Denver Art Museum Denver Art Museum

With galleries showcasing more than 70,000 works by famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Winslow Homer, the Denver Art Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art between Chicago and the West Coast. Spread across two buildings, the museum's holdings range from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary displays with such mediums as painting  and sculpture represented. One of the highlights of a visit to the Denver Art Museum is its extensive assembly of western American art, which includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper related to the West going back two centuries.

Past visitors raved about the Denver Art Museum, praising its diverse and varied collections, especially its collection of western American art, and the museum's ability to appeal to kids through interactive activities. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that the museum is a popular stop on many of the best Denver tours .

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16th Street Mall 16th Street Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit Skyline Park (located at 15th and Arapahoe streets) in the summer for draft beers at Skyline Beer Garden and the winter for outdoor ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. – Leilani Osmundson

Walk along this mile-long pedestrian mall for restaurants, shops, entertainment and more. Described as "the spine that connects all of downtown," the mall starts with Union Station on the north end and the Colorado State Capitol on the south end, with attractions like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Larimer Square and the Denver Pavilions – a shopping and dining complex with multiple movie theaters and pop-up events – along the way. If you've worked up an appetite walking around, you won't go hungry: There are more than 40 outdoor cafes throughout the mall, as well as plenty of casual, upscale and international eateries.

Coors Field Coors Field

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a seat in row 20 – the only purple row in the stadium – and you'll be sitting exactly one mile above sea level! –  Leilani Osmundson

Named for Denver's famed beer, Coors Field in Denver's LoDo district is home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies. The stadium occupies a whopping 76 acres and has the capacity for more than 50,000 fans. Of course, the main reason to come to Coors Field is to catch a game, but there's more to this stadium than a diamond. Whether you're traveling with children or alone, be sure to spend some time at the Interactive Area, where you can test your skills in the video batting cages and the Speed Pitch area. And if you've left the kids at home, take the opportunity to sample some of Denver's local brews on the Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot platform with fantastic views of the field and downtown Denver. If the weather isn't cooperating, pay a visit to the on-site SandLot brewery instead.

Washington Park Washington Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's not the easiest to find parking in Denver, but don't worry -- Wash Park has plenty of street parking, and it's easy to find a spot even during events. –  Leilani Osmundson

Located south of central Denver, Washington Park is consistently praised by Denverites and visitors alike for its ample facilities and enjoyable atmosphere. Occupying 155 acres, this immense park boasts miles of jogging paths, two massive lakes and two formal gardens, one of which is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon gardens. Wash Park, as it’s called by locals, is a popular weekend hangout spot thanks to the variety of things to do here. You can spend your time simply relaxing on the grass, or you can take advantage of the park's 10 tennis courts, boat rentals and recreation center, which houses a pool and offers scheduled fitness classes and swim lessons.

Larimer Square Larimer Square free

In 1858, a group of settlers struck gold at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Their discovery soon spread back to the East Coast, prompting people to pick up and move west. The site of the original pioneer camp (known back then as Auraria) soon grew into the charming area now known as Larimer Square. Although the city has since expanded, this historic neighborhood remains the heart and soul of the Mile High City, and according to some, it's the place to start your Denver experience thanks to its variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It's also a featured stop on many of the best Denver tours . 

Before venturing to Larimer Square, you may want to pay a visit to the Larimer Square  website . Here, you'll find a listing of all the local businesses and upcoming events, not to mention maps that can help orient where specific dining, shopping and entertainment options are.

Empower Field at Mile High Empower Field at Mile High

Football fans won't want to pass up the chance to spend some time on the Denver Broncos' home turf. Empower Field at Mile High can hold more than 76,000 NFL fans and is notable for its elevation, which sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That, combined with the view of the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east, makes it a unique venue to visit.

If you can swing it, try to catch a home game. Ticket prices vary by game and availability, and you'll want to purchase your seats well in advance to ensure availability. If you can't make it to a game, you can tag along on a guided tour of the stadium. Led by employees from the on-site Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum (one of the stops on the tour), these 75- to 90-minute tours take participants to the visiting teams' locker rooms, the end zone as well as into the network television production compound and the TV and radio broadcast facilities. Recent visitors described the tour experience as incredible thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

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Molly Brown House Museum Molly Brown House Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Though you can explore the museum on your own, a guided tour is vastly more educational. Register for a late morning tour and then walk to The Corner Beet after for tasty juices and brunch options. – Leilani Osmundson

Nestled among the contemporary architecture of the Capitol Hill district is the Molly Brown House Museum, an eccentric example of Victorian life and design that no history buff should miss. Once the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown (Kathy Bates' character in the film, "Titanic,"), this museum offers a glimpse into Denver's history and the life of one of its most fascinating residents. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about Brown's experience aboard the Titanic, as well as her role in the women's suffrage movement and her endeavors in Colorado's mining industry.

Elitch Gardens Elitch Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the park in winter for its Luminova Holidays event and don't forget to bring your camera; there are plenty of beautiful holiday light displays for photo opportunities, and some rides are open as well. – Leilani Osmundson

Open first as actual gardens as well as a zoological park in 1890, the long-running Elitch Gardens now boasts a theme park, a water park, entertainment and more. At the theme park, fly 17 stories above Denver on the Star Flyer swing ride, or dive and spin at 50 mph speeds on the Mind Eraser coaster. If thrills aren't your thing, you'll find plenty of more relaxing rides and activities in both the theme and water park, such as the Commotion Ocean wave pool and Castaway Creek lazy river.

United States Mint United States Mint free

Even if you hate the sound of excess change rattling around your pockets, you'll find a tour of the Denver branch of the United States Mint to be an interesting way to spend an hour or so. Having opened in 1863, its purpose was to transform the Gold Rush's findings into coinage. Today, the U.S. Mint in Denver can produce up to 50 million coins a day.

A free guided tour of the U.S. Mint in Denver will allow you the opportunity to learn more about each stage of coin production, from the design and sculpting of each piece to the cutting of each type of coin. Some recent visitors marveled at the coin-making machines, but say that not all travelers will likely find it enthralling.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Housed in a hangar on the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, this museum has more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space that explores the history of the base's role in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War. A variety of iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts and military uniforms are on display. The collection includes bombers from World War II, reconnaissance aircraft and commercial planes. One of the most iconic symbols of the Vietnam War – the Bell UH-1M Iroquois “Huey” – is among the displays. 

Past visitors enjoyed seeing the variety of aircraft and especially the replicas of “Star Wars” spacecraft. About 20 miles south of the museum is its sister location, the Exploration of Flight, which offers visitors a more immersive experience. They include a pilot simulator and actual flights in vintage and modern aircraft. The 15-acre site is located at Centennial Field, about 20 miles south of downtown Denver.

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Denver Art Museum presents Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors in April 2025

DENVER–September 4, 2024– The Denver Art Museum will present the first major survey in the U.S. for celebrated artist Kent Monkman (Fisher River Cree Nation, b. 1965), in partnership with the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors will be on view from April 20, 2025, through August 17, 2025, in the museum’s Anschutz Gallery on level 2 of the Hamilton Building and is included in general admission.

Kent Monkman (Fisher River Cree Nation), History is Painted by the Victors , 2013. Acrylic paint on canvas; 72 x 113¼ x 1½ in. Gift from Vicki and Kent Logan to the to the Collection of the Denver Art Museum, 2016.288. © Kent Monkman

Kent Monkman (Fisher River Cree Nation), The Deluge , 2019. Acrylic paint on canvas, 120 × 102 in. Private collection, Canada. © and image courtesy of Kent Monkman.

Based in New York City and Toronto, Canada, Monkman is known for his provocative interventions into Western European and American art history. Through his painting, Monkman pushes forward an understanding of the lived experiences of Indigenous people today while confronting colonial injustices. Featuring 41 monumental works, History is Painted by the Victors draws from the DAM’s extensive collection of Monkman’s work alongside newly created works and loans from other institutions and private collections, including the monumental mistikôsiwak (Wooden Boat People) diptych from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, touring for the first time.

“We are extremely proud to bring the first major show in the U.S. to our community in partnership with the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts,” said Christoph Heinrich, Frederick and Jan Mayer Director of the Denver Art Museum. “Visitors from Denver and around the country will have the unique opportunity to connect with Kent’s staggering history paintings rooted in the resiliency of Indigenous communities in the face of injustice.”

History is Painted by the Victors explores Kent Monkman’s use of history painting as a contemporary genre to highlight relevant issues such as climate change and environmental protection, the impact of governmental policies on historically marginalized communities, generational trauma, and Two-Spirit and other queer identifying communities’ visibility and pride.

Monkman frequently confronts difficult subjects in his large-scale history paintings ranging from the absence and erasure of Indigenous artists in the art history canon, to the representation of 2SLGBTQ+ people in art, and the ongoing project to decolonize bodies and sexuality while challenging gender norms and generational trauma inflicted by forced residential and boarding school experiences. History is Painted by the Victors explores several key moments in Monkman’s career, including the inception of Monkman’s provocateur alter ego—Miss Chief Eagle Testickle— whom he often places in his canonical landscape and genre paintings of 19 th century North America as well as The Rendezvous series, which focuses on the “golden age” of settler/Indigenous relations.

Kent Monkman (Fisher River Cree Nation), Compositional Study for The Sparrow, 2022. Acrylic paint on canvas, 43 × 36 in. From the collection of Brian A. Tschumper. © and image courtesy of Kent Monkman

“The DAM has supported and acquired Kent’s boundary-breaking work for over a decade, and we are proud to be the first museum in the U.S. to present this broad examination of his career, creating an opportunity for American audiences to experience Kent’s monumental art firsthand.” said John P. Lukavic, the Andrew W. Mellon Curator of Native Arts and Head of the Native Arts Department at Denver Art Museum.

In conjunction with the exhibition, the DAM will publish a catalog with DelMonico Books featuring contributions from Lukavic and co-curator Léuli Eshrāghi (Seumanutafa and Tautua Sāmoan), Curator of Indigenous Practices at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts along with some of today’s leading scholars including Ned Blackhawk (Western Shoshone), National Book Award Winner and Professor of History and American Studies at Yale; Brenda J. Child (Ojibwe), Northrop Professor of American Studies at the University of Minnesota; Adrienne Huard (Anishinaabe), Two-Spirit performer, scholar, curator, and writer; Bryan C. Keene, Associate Professor of Art History and Theatre at Riverside City College and former Associate Curator of Manuscripts at the J. Paul Getty Museum; and Patricia Norby (P’urhépecha), Associate Curator of Native American Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors is organized by the Denver Art Museum and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. It is presented with generous support from Henry Luce Foundation, The Christensen Fund, the donors to the Annual Fund Leadership Campaign, and the residents who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). Promotional support is provided by 5280 Magazine and CBS Colorado.

Planning Your Visit

The most up-to-date information on planning a visit to the Denver Art Museum can be found online under the Plan Your Visit tab. Use this page to find details on ticket pricing, public transit options and access information. General admission for museum members is free every day. Youth aged 18 and under receive free general admission everyday thanks to the museum’s Free for Kids program. Free for Kids also underwrites free admission for school and youth group visits.

About the Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is an educational, nonprofit resource that sparks creative thinking and expression through transformative experiences with art. Its holdings reflect the city and region—and provide invaluable ways for the community to learn about cultures from around the world. Metro area residents support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), a unique funding source serving hundreds of metro Denver arts, culture and scientific organizations. For museum information, call 720-865-5000 or visit www.denverartmuseum.org .

Media Resources

• Online Newsroom: www.denverartmuseum.org/press
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/denverartmuseum
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/denverartmuseum/
• Museum B-roll: www.denverartmuseum.org/broll

Media Contacts

Denver Art Museum Andy Sinclair/Press Office 720-913-0096/719-761-9390 [email protected] or [email protected]

Supreme Court allows Biden administration to withhold family planning funds to Oklahoma over abortion dispute

The Supreme Court on Tuesday allowed the Biden administration to refuse to disburse federal family planning funds to Oklahoma in an abortion-related dispute .

The administration has sought to withhold the funds because Oklahoma refused to provide patients with a hotline number that could provide neutral information about abortion.

The brief court order rejecting an emergency application filed by the state noted that three of the six conservative justices — Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch — disagreed with the outcome. The court did not explain the reasoning behind its decision.

Under the federal family planning law in question, known as Title X, the state funding cannot be used for abortion. But the Biden administration argues that it does not prohibit the government from requiring providers to ensure patients have access to relevant information.

When President Joe Biden took office in 2021, his administration issued a regulation similar to rules issued by previous administrations that required states to offer factual information to pregnant patients on issues like prenatal care, adoption and abortion.

In addition to the requirement that providers supply "non-directive counseling" to pregnant women, it also requires referral upon request.

The new regulation replaced a Trump administration rule that barred any abortion referrals.

In 2022, Oklahoma received the funding after complying with the rule, but after the Supreme Court's 2022 ruling that overturned abortion rights landmark Roe v. Wade, the state changed course.

Oklahoma now bans abortion except when a woman's life is in danger and has a law that criminalizes encouraging someone to have an abortion.

Initially, the state agreed as a compromise to provide a hotline number to patients who requested information on abortion, but it later refused to do so.

The state's funding for 2023, worth $4.5 million, was then terminated.

Oklahoma had already joined a challenge to the administration's regulation, but it filed a separate suit seeking to gain access to the Title X funding.

A federal judge in Oklahoma ruled against the state, refusing to require the Biden administration to provide the money. The Denver-based 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reached the same conclusion, saying informing patients about the hotline did not constitute an abortion referral.

The state then turned to the Supreme Court in an attempt to gain access to the funding in the future.

Lawyers for the state argue in part that the Department of Health and Human Services does not have the authority to impose new conditions on funding required under Title X.

They added in court papers that the funding is used to provide "critical public health services" across the state.

"Depriving these communities of Title X services would be devastating," they added.

Representing the Biden administration, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar wrote in a court filing that the Title X regulation is currently in effect in all 50 states.

"Congress routinely conditions federal grants on compliance with requirements contained in agency regulations, and this court has repeatedly upheld such requirements," she added.

Lawrence Hurley is a senior Supreme Court reporter for NBC News.

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