What Are the Best Things to Do in Denver?

Denver, the Colorado capital and Mile High City, is an urban neighborhood bustling with modern attractions and classic entertainment. As an economic hub for the western United States and home to thriving cultural, artistic, and recreational activities, Denver is more than just a sprawling city. It’s a destination for a wide range of activities and events across multiple districts, communities, and neighborhoods.

When visiting Denver, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with just how much there is to do here. There are amazing restaurants, exciting attractions, and special events that happen throughout the year. To make the most of your stay, here are the best things to do in Denver to ensure a unique and unforgettable experience.

Explore Downtown Denver

Downtown Denver has something for everyone, from outdoor activities and entertainment to world-class art galleries, modern architecture, and specialty shops. As it’s the business center of the city, you’ll come across plenty of high-rise buildings and modern facilities.

If you’re looking for outdoor fun, you can head to the Washington Park neighborhood for a relaxing stroll around the lake or for some frisbee golf. The Denver Botanic Gardens are found nearby if you’d rather admire nature. For something a little more lively, take a walk along The 16th Street Mall, a shopping center filled with outdoor kiosks, street performers, and sculptures. In addition, Union Station provides access to the city’s thoroughfare of public transit options.

Experience Denver’s Arts Scene

Denver is home to a vibrant arts scene, focusing on both traditional art galleries and unique street art. The Denver Art Museum houses more than 68,000 works of art ranging from pre-Columbian pieces to contemporary pieces. Galleries such as the Robischon Gallery and the Fabric Workshop show off sculptures, glassworks, photography and more in a modern atmosphere.

If you’re looking for something a little edgier, take a stroll around the RiNo District where street art can be seen on the sides of buildings or from sculptures mounted onto poles. One of the most iconic pieces of street art in town is a nearly 20-foot-tall mural located at 946 Larimer Street and is known as “The Monk by the Sea.”

Indulge in Delicious Food

Foodies will find plenty of great eats in Denver! The LoDo district is home to an impressive selection of upscale restaurants serving up high-end cuisine. LoHi (Lower Highlands) has a wealth of hip cafes and eateries if you’re in search of something a bit more casual. Traditional pubs and Irish favorites can be found along Market Street.

Head over to Denver Union Station for options like Acme Burger Company for juicy burgers or Helen’s Kitchen for classic diner-style grub. Make sure to stroll around Larimer Square for amazing options like Rioja for modern American fare or Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs for unorthodox hot dogs served up on delicious buns. Top off your meal with delicious desserts from The Market at Larimer Square or from the ice-cream parlor Drop N Roll around the corner.

Take a Craft Beer Tour

Millennials know that when it comes to finding good beer, Colorado is an excellent destination. The Mile High City is home to more than 300 craft breweries throughout neighborhoods like LoDo and RiNo, but if you’re not sure where to start, why not join a tour?

Denver Lodo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour from GetYourGuide offers guests a chance to taste some of Denver’s best craft beers while making their way through the neighborhoods of LoDo and Coors Field. This three-hour tour features eight craft beer samples from local breweries such as Ratio Beerworks and Renegade Brewing Company in addition to snacks like pretzels and nuts. Along the way, hear fun stories about Denver’s unique beer culture and rest assured—transportation is included so that you don’t have worry about seeing a sober driver at the end of your tour!

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre

If you love music, then you definitely have to visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre! Nestled against 300-foot sandstone walls with breathtaking views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains sometimes available in the background, this natural amphitheater hosts an array of performances by both music icons and local acts throughout the year.

Audiences can bring their own picnic along with them while taking in stunning panoramic views from the terraced seating or opt for full service dining in one of two onsite restaurants—The Ship Rock Grille or Red Rocks Café. During the day, this beautiful spot also makes for a great hiking trail and is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for some fresh air!

Look for Local Events

When it comes to celebrating the community, Denver does it best! Find parades and festivals taking place throughout the year in downtown neighborhoods like LoDo and RiNo or check out events like The Great American Beer Festival held annually in October at Mile High Stadium showcasing over 8,000 beers from 800+ breweries around America plus special food pairings, lectures and more beer-related activities. In addition, music lovers may want to check out events like Global Dance Festival that takes place each summer at Red Rocks Amphitheatre with sets by some of the world’s most renowned DJs. And if you’re looking for something less mainstream, opt for quirky events such as Pirates Day Parade in May where folks dress up like pirates and invade the streets of Olde Town Arvada!

Conclusion: The Best Things to Do in Denver

As you can see, there’s an abundance of things to do during your trip to Denver—from exploring its vibrant downtown to indulging in delicious food or taking part in one of its many festivals or tours! So if you’re looking for your next big adventure—check out these best things to do when you visit Denver! And if you’re looking for a fun guided activity—make sure to check out Denver Lodo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour. With so many brewery stops ranging from Ratio Beerworks to Renegade Brewing Company—it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!