The Best Things to Do in Denver, CO

Denver offers an incredible mix of outdoor adventure and urban culture that'll keep any visitor buzzing with excitement. The majestic Rocky Mountain National Park showcases wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep, while the Denver Art Museum houses over 70,000 works of Western and Native American art. Music lovers flock to the naturally acoustic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and families enjoy free tours at Hammond's Candies. The city's historic districts, from Five Points to LoDo, pulse with vibrant galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. From hiking trails to world-class theaters, Denver's diverse attractions paint a colorful picture of Colorado's dynamic spirit.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife

Denver's natural landscape captivates visitors with its diverse array of wildlife and stunning geographical features. From the towering red sandstone formations at Garden of the Gods to the majestic peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park, nature enthusiasts find themselves engrossed in a playground of geological wonders. Wildlife conservation efforts have created sanctuaries where visitors can observe elk, moose, and bighorn sheep in their natural habitat.

For those passionate about natural photography, Barr Lake State Park offers incredible opportunities to capture over 200 species of birds, including magnificent bald eagles and graceful ospreys. The Buffalo Herd Nature Preserve lets you get up close with American bison, while Genesee Park provides perfect vantage points for spotting deer, foxes, and coyotes. At the Denver Botanic Gardens, a 23-acre sanctuary showcases Colorado's diverse plant life, offering a peaceful retreat within the city limits. Whether you're hiking the extensive trail network at Red Rocks Park, watching pelicans glide across Chatfield State Park's lake, or observing wolves at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Denver's natural wonders provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and wildlife encounters. Scenic drives throughout the region provide easy access to these wildlife viewing opportunities.

Arts and Culture Scene

Denver's vibrant arts scene revolves around its remarkable collection of museums and galleries, from the iconic Denver Art Museum's stunning collection of Western art to the cutting-edge exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The city's historic cultural districts, including the Golden Triangle Creative District and the Art District on Santa Fe, showcase Colorado's largest concentration of galleries and provide endless opportunities for art enthusiasts to explore local talent. Whether you're catching a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, where "The Dancers" tower overhead, or wandering through the monthly First Friday Art Walks, you'll discover why Denver has earned its reputation as a cultural powerhouse in the American West. The city's commitment to public art is evident through its one percent allocation law, which dedicates funds from capital improvement projects to create accessible art installations throughout the urban landscape.

Art Museums and Galleries

Artistic excellence thrives in the Mile High City through its impressive collection of world-class museums and galleries. The Denver Art Museum stands as the crown jewel, housing over 70,000 works, including remarkable art installations that showcase American Indian and Western art. Regular gallery openings at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver keep the city's artistic pulse beating with fresh perspectives from local and international talents.

Art enthusiasts will find their haven in distinctive cultural spaces like the Clyfford Still Museum, dedicated to one of the 20th century's most influential painters, and the Kirkland Museum, where 150 years of art and design unfold in enchanting salon-style exhibitions. The Museo de las Americas enriches the cultural landscape with its dedication to Latin American art and heritage. For those who prefer to explore the city's grassroots art scene, the River North Art District and Art District on Santa Fe offer an authentic glimpse into Denver's creative spirit, with their maze of galleries, studios, and vibrant street murals. The Golden Triangle Creative District, home to respected venues like Abend Gallery and Gallery 1261, rounds out the city's diverse artistic landscape with its mix of emerging and established artists' works.

Theater and Performance Spaces

World-class performance venues dot Denver's cultural landscape, anchored by the magnificent Denver Performing Arts Complex, a sprawling 12-acre campus that houses four premier performing arts institutions. The complex's crown jewel, the Buell Theatre, consistently draws Broadway's biggest shows, while the historic Ellie Caulkins Opera House stands as a tribute to Denver's rich theater history. Each venue contributes to the city's reputation through diverse seating arrangements designed to enhance viewing experiences.

For those seeking unique performance art experiences, the city offers an impressive variety of venues. The Wolf Theatre dazzles with its imaginative productions, while the intimate Kilstrom Theatre provides an immersive theater-in-the-round experience. Music lovers can catch symphonic performances at Boettcher Concert Hall or head to the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where the natural acoustics create unforgettable outdoor concerts.

The academic world contributes considerably to Denver's performing arts scene, with the Newman Center for the Performing Arts hosting everything from student recitals to professional shows in the June Swaner Gates Concert Hall. Whether you're catching an avant-garde production at the Jones Theatre or enjoying a cabaret show at the Garner Galleria Theatre, Denver's performance spaces offer something for every artistic taste.

Historic Cultural Districts

Beyond its celebrated performance venues, the city's rich cultural mosaic comes to life in its designated historic districts, each preserving unique chapters of Denver's multicultural heritage. The La Alma Lincoln Park district stands as a symbol of Denver's vibrant Chicano Heritage, where colorful murals like Emanuel Martinez's "La Alma" tell stories of tenacity and community pride.

In Five Points, known affectionately as the "Harlem of the West," African American History resonates through every historic building and jazz note that once filled the legendary Rossonian Hotel. These Cultural Preservation efforts guarantee that future generations can experience these authentic neighborhood stories.

For art enthusiasts, Denver's Arts Districts offer endless exploration opportunities:

1. Golden Triangle Creative District showcases eight museums and 15+ galleries, including the renowned Denver Art Museum
2. Tennyson Street Cultural District comes alive during First Fridays with gallery openings and street performances
3. Westwood Creative District's developing Mercado Lineal features culturally-inspired murals that reflect the neighborhood's identity

Whether you're exploring Five Points' jazz legacy or admiring contemporary artwork in Golden Triangle, these districts offer windows into Denver's diverse cultural soul.

Educational Discoveries

Denver enriches young minds through an impressive array of educational institutions and programs. The city's museums and cultural centers offer interactive exhibits that make learning an adventure, from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science's space exploration galleries to the History Colorado Center's virtual ski jumps and Model T Ford experiences.

Young explorers can awaken their curiosity at the Children's Museum of Denver, where hands-on activities spark imagination and discovery. The Denver Zoo's educational programs bring wildlife conservation to life, while the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum ignites passion for aviation. For aspiring scientists, the Denver Botanic Gardens offers fascinating programs about ecosystems and plant life.

History buffs will appreciate the stories behind the Molly Brown House Museum and Four Mile Historic Park, Denver's oldest standing structure. More unique experiences await at Hammond's Candies, where free tours reveal the sweet science of candy-making, and at the Denver Trolley, where historic rides showcase the city's transportation evolution. Many venues offer free admission for youth, making educational adventures accessible to all families seeking to expand their horizons.

Outdoor Adventures

Denver's outdoor adventures begin with the majestic Rocky Mountains, where visitors can explore miles of scenic trails while spotting elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots along the way. The iconic Red Rocks Park offers both challenging and leisurely hiking options, with the Trading Post Trail providing spectacular views of towering sandstone formations that have drawn nature enthusiasts for generations. For those seeking guided experiences, mountain wildlife viewing tours through Rocky Mountain National Park and the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge offer intimate encounters with native species, including herds of roaming bison and deer, in their natural habitat.

Hiking The Rocky Mountains

The majestic Rocky Mountains offer some of Colorado's most spectacular hiking opportunities, with Rocky Mountain National Park serving as the crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a 90-minute drive from Denver, the park's network of trails beckons adventurers to explore its stunning wilderness, while proper mountain safety and trail etiquette guarantee everyone can enjoy these natural wonders responsibly.

For an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience, consider these must-try hikes:

1. Bear Lake to Emerald Lake Trail: A perfect introduction to alpine hiking, featuring three pristine mountain lakes and breathtaking views of Longs Peak
2. The Loch via Glacier Gorge: A moderate trek rewarding hikers with a spectacular subalpine lake framed by dramatic peaks
3. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge: An challenging adventure past waterfalls and alpine terrain, culminating at one of the park's most dramatic destinations

Remember to secure your timed entry permit during peak season (May-October) and start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. The park's shuttle service makes it easy to access popular trailheads, while the variety of trails guarantees there's something for every skill level, from casual wanderers to seasoned mountaineers.

Red Rocks Trail Adventures

Nestled among towering sandstone monoliths, Red Rocks Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a diverse 6-mile loop through one of Colorado's most iconic landscapes. Whether you're an experienced hiker or seeking a moderate adventure, this trail delivers breathtaking scenic viewpoints and connections to several neighboring paths, including the challenging Dakota Ridge Trail.

For the freedom-seeking explorer, Red Rocks Trail serves as a perfect escape, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders throughout the year. Starting from the Lower North Lot, you'll wind through spectacular rock formations while keeping trail safety in mind, especially during variable weather conditions. Don't forget to bring your four-legged friend – dogs are welcome on leash!

Want to mix it up? The park offers several alternative trails, like the easier 1.4-mile Trading Post loop or the short-but-sweet Geological Overlook Trail. Just remember to check the concert schedule before planning your visit, as the park can get busy during events. Pro tip: pack extra water and hit the trail early to avoid exercise groups, especially on weekends. The complete loop takes about three hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in those remarkable red rock views.

Mountain Wildlife Viewing Tours

Beyond the striking geology of Red Rocks lies another enchanting outdoor experience: encountering Colorado's diverse mountain wildlife in its natural habitat. Professional guides lead immersive tours through Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, where wildlife photography enthusiasts can capture everything from majestic elk to elusive black bears. These adventures combine conservation education with the thrill of spotting native species in their natural environment.

For the ultimate wildlife viewing experience, consider these popular options:

1. Take the 8-hour Rocky Mountain National Park tour, where early morning light creates perfect conditions for spotting moose and bighorn sheep
2. Explore the 11-mile Wildlife Drive at Rocky Mountain Arsenal, a fantastic spot for viewing beavers and coyotes at their most active
3. Join a specialized guided hiking tour equipped with professional-grade Swarovski binoculars for up-close observation of mountain wildlife

Whether you're traversing Trail Ridge Road or exploring the wetlands around Lake Mary, expert guides share fascinating insights about local ecosystems while ensuring responsible viewing practices. The combination of high-altitude tundra and diverse terrain creates countless opportunities to witness Colorado's remarkable wildlife in action.

Historical Landmarks

Denver's rich historical fabric comes alive through dozens of well-preserved landmarks scattered throughout the city and surrounding areas. The city's commitment to historic preservation shines through in iconic structures like the Brown Palace Hotel, which has welcomed countless celebrities and dignitaries through its doors. The architectural significance of Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, with its beautifully restored 19th-century buildings and the recently revitalized Union Station, offers visitors a glimpse into Denver's pioneering past.

For history enthusiasts seeking unique experiences, the Denver Mint stands as the world's largest coin producer, while the Molly Brown House tells the fascinating tale of the "Unsinkable" Titanic survivor. The Four Mile House, the oldest standing residential building in the metro area, provides an authentic window into early settler life. Don't miss Larimer Square, where preserved Victorian architecture houses modern restaurants and boutiques. For a deeper understanding of Colorado's diverse heritage, visit the Black American West Museum or explore Sakura Square, the historic heart of Denver's Japanese community. The History Colorado Center brings the state's past to life through interactive exhibits that'll make you feel like a time traveler.

Evening Entertainment

As the sun sets over the Mile High City, a vibrant nightlife scene emerges to entertain both locals and visitors. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where live music echoes against natural rock formations, to the bustling streets of LoDo, Denver's entertainment options are endless. You'll find everything from intimate comedy clubs showcasing both local talent and national acts to sophisticated venues perfect for a memorable night out.

For those seeking an unconventional evening, Denver delivers with unique experiences that set it apart from other cities:

1. Try your hand at axe throwing while sipping craft cocktails at Axe Whooping
2. Race go-karts under the stars at Unser Karting
3. Learn salsa dancing at La Rumba, where Latin rhythms keep the energy high

The RiNo Art District pulses with creative energy, offering a mix of art galleries, breweries, and performance spaces. Comedy enthusiasts can catch shows at RISE Comedy Club or the renowned Comedy Works, while theater lovers will appreciate the variety of productions at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Whether you're dancing at The Grizzly Rose or enjoying champagne at Corridor 44, Denver's nightlife scene offers something for every taste.