12 Top Things To Do In Denver Colorado, Where To Stay, Dine and Explore
From exploring the Rocky Mountains to the best city tours, our guide has the top things to do in Denver, along with the best Denver hotels and restaurant recommendations.
Located on the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Denver has a reputation for friendliness and for giving visitors a good time. From exploring its buzzing food and craft beer scene to discovering world-class museums, lively neighbourhoods and outdoor adventures, there is no shortage of things to do in Denver. You can spend your morning strolling through art districts and your afternoon hiking in the foothills, before catching live music or a game in the evening.
Not only is Denver an ideal city break destination, but its proximity to four national parks, 29 ski resorts, and countless hiking trails makes it a superb base for a wider adventure through Colorado or neighbouring Utah and Wyoming.
Read: Ultimate Utah Road Trip, best places to stay, dine and explore
Whether you are visiting for a few days or using it as a base to explore the further afield, multi-award-winning travel journalist Isabel Conway shares her favourite things about the Mile High City in this Denver travel guide. During her visit, she explored many of the top things to do in Denver, sampled some of the city’s best restaurants, and gathered a selection of insider tips to help you visit the top Denver attractions.
About Denver
Adrenaline flows as I adjust to being one mile above sea level, marvelling at the majestic Rocky mountains on Denver’s doorstep. One of the fastest growing cities in the US, Mile High’s compact downtown and other neighbourhoods are fun and vibrant, bursting with restaurants and bars, Indie music hang outs and plenty of culture too.
Denver enjoys up to 300 days of brilliant sunshine annually – more than Miami and San Diego! That was news to me, hitting the former frontier town, founded by pioneers who came in search of gold that proudly guards memories of her colourful past, from the Denver Art Museum’s fabulous collection of Western art to Buffalo Bill’s last resting place.
The one-time rough and tumble centre of mining was a mecca throughout the 1800’s for prospectors and pioneers who travelled west in search of land, gold and new opportunity. That early spirit of adventure and ‘can do’ lives on in one of America’s most go-ahead cities. A laid back, liberal quality of life has enticed younger well-heeled ‘blow ins’ from across the States and who give the city her ‘chill yet driven’ vibe.
Top things to do in Denver
1. Taste the best brunch in Denver
There’s no better way to tackle jet lag and adjust to Denver’s altitude than with a hearty breakfast/brunch. The transportation hub, Union Station’s beaux-arts building lies at the heart of bustling downtown LoDo (short for Lower Down Town) district, crammed with restaurants and trendy shopping.
Snooze at Gate B 4 of the station serves the best breakfast and brunch in town and is one of the many fun things to do in Denver.
American breakfast menus make for delectable, if confusing reading. I was about to order pancakes with blue berries when the waiter recommended the Denver Sandwich. The city’s signature breakfast dish, it’s an omelette made with cage free eggs, red bell peppers and cheddar cheese, locked between two slices of toast and hash browns on the side. Delicious and just a little less calorific than other choices.
2. Discover Denver with a food, bike or walking tour
When planning what to do in Denver, a guided tour on your first day is the best way for discovering both the main sights and lesser-known spots.
I have listed the most highly rated tours below, which include the famous Beer and Bikes tour – two of Denverites’ favorite things! Sarah did a similar tour in Chicago and loved it. A nine-mile ride will take you down riverside paths, through downtown and Denver’s many neighbourhoods, bringing you to a local bar at the end of the tour.
If cycling is not your thing, the top-rated, two-hour Denver walking tour offers a great introduction to the city and is priced from just €35, while the three-hour food tour has over 1700 5 star reviews and is a must do in Denver for food lovers.
3. Visit the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum has 70,000 displayed works, headlined by the indigenous arts of North America collection, and is one of the top things to see in Denver. Entrance is included with the Denver City Pass which offers deals on transportation and discounts for major attractions and is a recommended purchase if you are planning on visiting the top attractions in Denver.
You can also browse for a genuine once off piece of high quality native art, from jewellery to pottery and beaded garments to baskets, sourced directly from artists which are for sale. The museum restaurant The Ponti is a good lunch choice presenting a locally sourced, seasonally inspired menu which is very affordable so worth checking out.
The neighbourhood art district of RiNO (river North) where old warehouses and factories have been transformed into an arts district, is also a must visit in Denver for art lovers.
4. Don’t Miss The Molly Brown House
Unmissable is an afternoon in the company of ‘Unsinkable Molly Brown’, who heroically helped others into lifeboats whilst the Titanic sank.
Molly’s parents emigrated from Cork, poor and uneducated and settled out west. At 18, Molly moved to Leadville, Colorado, hoping to marry a rich gentleman, but instead fell for Jim Brown, a poor miner who went from rags to riches after devising a smart method to dig gold mines deeper, which turned them into millionaires.
She used her new-found wealth wisely, educating herself, learning languages, championing the fight for women’s rights and child labour causes. Molly’s heroism helping others into lifeboats whilst the Titanic sank, only abandoning ship herself at the last minute, brought her worldwide fame afterwards in books and a dedicated musical.
The Molly Brown House is a beautifully preserved mansion, and traces her remarkable life and times.
5. Step into the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum
Denver cherishes the legacy of Buffalo Bill and a visit to the Buffalo Bill Museum is one of top things to do in Denver. Over half a million visitors stop by annually, enjoying the awesome views from Lookout Mountain where the legendary buffalo hunter, army scout and Indian fighter is laid to rest.
Amid rumours of body snatching and conspiracy stories, claiming that his body was stolen, Buffalo Bill Cody, is honoured in museum exhibits and artefacts. His wild west circus show extravaganza, co-starring Annie Oakley, Pawnie Bill and other colourful characters had once been one of America’s foremost attractions.
6. Visit Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and amphitheatre is a must visit in Colorado and is located just 20 minutes drive from Denver. It one of the world’s best open air music venues, where all the greats from Johnny Cash to U2 performed and whose natural acoustics and cliffs which turn golden at sunset, are extraordinary to behold.
I have linked one of the most top-rated small group tours below, which is priced at just €95 for four hours, and includes visits to Red Rocks Amphitheater, Lookout Mountain and the scenic Lariat Loop.
Top Tip: Check out concert dates before you book your flights, you might be able to coincide your Denver holiday with a concert at Red Rocks.
7. Discover Rocky Mountain National Park
A visit to the Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best day trips from Denver. There are many ways to get to Colorado’s majestic mountains, but if you don’t have a car, I suggest booking a full day tour to maximise your experience.
You will visit Colorado’s small, historic towns, drive over alpine passes, and have the opportunity to spot mountain wildlife such as elk, black bears, or moose, all with the assistance of an expert guide.
8. Go White Water Rafting on the Colorado River
A whitewater rafting experience on the Colorado river, with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, is one of the best things to do in Denver for families. Sarah did a similar experience with her family on the Colorado river in Utah and loved it.
Read: Ultimate Utah Road Trip, best places to stay, dine and explore
This thrilling adventure starts with a beginner’s run but you should encounter class I-II rapids along the 90 minute journey.
9. Sample Denver’s famous craft beer
No trip to Denver is complete without sampling the city’s craft beers. Dubbed the ’Napa Valley of Beer’ there’s a mind boggling tally of around 150 brewpubs, tasting rooms and breweries in the nation’s craft beer capital.
To start at the beginning I took myself down to Wynkoop Brewery on 18th street which was Colorado’s first brew pub. Claiming to have tried most of the city’s craft beers, one of the boozers I met in Denver said it had included a beer from Wynkoop, reputedly flavoured with bulls testicles!
Another great way to discover Denver’s craft beer scene is to book a small-group beer tour through the historic Lower Downtown (LoDo) district. This tour brings you to four local breweries to taste more than 10 samples of Colorado craft beer, all for just €50 for 2 and a half hours!
10. Marvel at the Meow Wolf Convergence Station
The Meow Wolf Convergence Station is where art and technology collide in an immersive, other worldly encounter called a ‘multiversal transit station’. The art installation includes kaleidoscopic works spanning four floors, which promises a surreal, interdimensional experience.
It’s an immersive playground that enters alien worlds, joined together “in a rare cosmic event as you explore their vast multiversal landscapes”. In truth I was more interested in the executive travel lounge featuring a handcrafted cocktail and snacks, but if you are looking for stuff to do in Denver with kids, this is a good shout.
11. Look like a cowboy at Rockmount Ranch Wear
Snap up a button cowboy shirt from legendary Rockmount Ranch Wear. German immigrant Jack Weil invented easy dressing for cowboys by way of the snap front button. His grandson Steve told me that Jack, who was 107 when he died, worked in the company past his 100th birthday.
The shop is a cornucopia of terrific western wear, housing a vast array of boots, belts and cowboy hats. I couldn’t resist a black and turquoise Annie Oakley style snap button shirt for myself and a chequered Hank Williams style one for my brother. The Denver based brand was loved by Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Elton John among others and is one of the fun activities in Denver that I suggest you don’t miss.
12. Explore Denver after Dark
The Mile High City knows how to party, from chic cocktail bars and hip hop clubs to live jazz venues and honky-tonks. I even joined in some late night table dancing at Coyote Ugly, part of a festive saloon chain. Dancing in bare feet and on stiletto heels are banned for safety reasons, but patrons in crazy fancy dress are welcome.
The Mile High Spirits Distillery serves up great cocktail classes and after dark it turns into a hip club on with live music.
Where to stay in Denver
Denver offers stays for all types of traveller, from great value budget stays to luxury five star hotels. LoDo or Lower Downtown is the best place to stay in Denver for first time visitors, with Larimer Square and Union Station being good reference points.
I have selected some of the most top-rated hotels below, along with personal recommendations to help you choose the best hotels in Denver to suit your budget and travel style.
Top Rated Budget Hotels in Denver
The 3 star Hilton Garden Inn at Union Station is hard to beat for location and value. The reviews on TripAdvisor are enough to know that if you are looking for one of the best cheap hotels in Denver, that is well located and of a good standard – this is the one to choose!
The 3 Star Hyatt Place Denver Downtown is another super choice for couples or families on a budget. One of the few reasonably priced hotels in Denver with indoor pool, you will also find a fitness centre, bar and free WiFi here. Plus its located just 500 metres from the Denver Art Museum.
4 Star Hotels in Denver
The Crawford Hotel above Union Station is known as the Crown Jewel of Denver. The landmark boutique hotel has restaurants and the famous Terminal Bar and offers a wealth of history and character in re-purposed rooms from Victorian offices of the railway company. When I return to Denver, this is where I would like to stay!
I stayed at the family friendly Sheraton Downtown, which is close to great shopping and restaurants in a lively area on pedestrianised 16th street.
The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block boasts a prime location just 4 minutes walk from Union Station. It is top-rated on TripAdvisor and is good value considering its superb location and amenities including fitness centre, restaurant and bar.
5 Star Hotels in Denver
The Oxford Hotel is a historic hotel located Downtown, just steps from Union Station and 10 minutes walk to Larimer Square. This is a great option for a luxury stay in the city and guests can enjoy spa facilities, a fitness centre with yoga classes, restaurant, and a bar.
If money is no object and you are looking for the best hotel in Denver, then look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel. With a rooftop pool, spa and wellness centre and superb dining and cocktails at the famous Edge Bar, this hotel is without a doubt a luxury Denver hotel.
A free shuttle service is also offered to destinations within 4.8 km of the Hotel, although with its central location, you may not need it.
Family Hotels in Denver
The 3 Star Hampton Inn and Suites Denver Downtown offers superb value for a family hotel in Denver. Kids stay for free and complimentary breakfast is also included. The reviews on TripAdvisor are enough to tempt me, giving it an excellent rating for a family stay in Denver Downtown.
The Homewood Suites is another great choice and offers self catering facilities which are always welcomed by families. Breakfast is also included in your stay here, and it has the added bonus of an indoor pool, hot tub and fitness centre. They also offer rooms with disability access.
The 4 star Kasa Union Station offers two-bedroom suites in a prime city centre location. If you are visiting during the summer time, this is the hotel to choose! With a sun terrace, garden, and outdoor swimming pool, as well as an outdoor fireplace, seating and picnic area, this is the place to take in the views!
Restaurant recommendations in Denver
Denver’s culinary scene, centred around Larimer street and other districts, can be checked out on one of the city’s many food tours or by trying one of umpteen tasting menus. I have selected some of my personal restaurant recommendations below, but don’t forget my brunch recommendation above!
Tamayo Mexican Restaurant
I am crazy about Mexican food and Denver has a great array of Mexican restaurants. I highly recommend Tamayo in Larimer Square, open for lunch and dinner which serves upscale Mexican fare whose lunchtime lomo empanada of beef tenderloin, creamy guajillo sauce and truffle cheese set me back $18. A companion opted for pricier shrimp and crab enchiladas, served with baby greens she deemed a new and delicious take on this Mexican favourite.
Buckhorn Exchange
A classic taste of Colorado is found at Buckhorn Exchange which dates back to 1893, keeping the spirit of the old West alive. The restaurant at 1,000 Osage Street brought in cattlemen, miners, silver barons, railroad people and Indian chiefs. The Exchange got its name because customers could cash in their pay cheques for gold. The steakhouse serves up cuts of beef bigger than a dinner plate and also features specialities like elk steaks.
If you are looking for fine dining restaurants in Denver, you can choose between its five Michelin-starred restaurants. The Wolf’s Tailor holds two stars, while Kizaki, Margot, Mezcaleria Alma, and Alma Fonda Fina hold one star.
How to get to Denver and Getting Around the City
There are many direct flights from Europe including flights from Dublin to Denver with a flight time between 9-10 hours.
Denver’s so called ’living room’, Union Station, is on the train link from the International airport. Take the Colorado A-Line train which is 40 minutes and costs just $9. You can chill out in its plush armchairs, enjoying the Art Deco splendour of the most comfortable train station in the US.
Navigating Mile High City is easy and efficient with train and bus connections to major attractions and districts with RTD, who operate public transport in Denver, and it is very affordable.
Single tickets and passes are available at station kiosks or can be purchased online. The official RTD ticketing app RTD MyRide lets you buy tickets on your smart phone, or you can purchase in cash (with exact change) on the bus.
Final Tip: Remember if you are on the look-out for a ‘pharmacy’, a ’wellness centre’ or a ‘dispensary’ around the city best be aware that some signs are code for legal marijuana shops which sell a large variety of cannabis products. Colorado was one of the first US States to legalise Cannabis for recreational use.
Isabel
Multi-award-winning travel Writer Isabel Conway is one of Ireland’s leading travel journalists. Isabel was the 2022 long haul winner at the Ireland Travel Extra Travel Journalist of the Year Awards and has also been both a winner and commended in the annual awards of the British Guild of Travel Writers.
Read Isabel’s other guides here: Top things to do in Pittsburgh and where to stay
I hope you enjoyed this travel guide on Denver things to do and it will inspire you to book a trip soon. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, accommodation facilities and attractions are subject to change.
Note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
