Denver

Denver, Colorado, known as the Mile High City, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its picturesque surroundings and urban charm, Denver is an excellent destination for a short getaway. From historic districts to modern attractions, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city.

Top Attractions and Activities in Denver

Parks and Nature

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Just 15 miles west of Denver, this outdoor venue is renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning red rock surroundings. Beyond concerts, visitors can hike the trails, explore the visitor center, and enjoy panoramic views.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: A serene escape in the heart of the city, these gardens feature 45 distinct gardens and one of the nation’s top 10 conservatories. Highlights include the Japanese Garden, the Tropical Conservatory, and the Water Garden.
• City Park: A vast urban park offering a picturesque setting with views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains. The park features walking trails, a lake with paddle boating, and the Denver Zoo.
• Washington Park: A favorite among locals, this park provides wide-open spaces, a large lake, and well-maintained gardens. It’s ideal for picnics, jogging, or a leisurely stroll.
• Cherry Creek Trail: This scenic trail stretches for over 22 miles along the Cherry Creek, perfect for biking, running, or walking. It connects various parks and offers beautiful city and natural views.

Landmarks and Buildings

• Union Station: This historic 1914 train terminal in LoDo has been revitalized into a vibrant hub of dining, shopping, and entertainment. The Grand Hall, with its long wooden benches and leather armchairs, offers a charming space to relax and people-watch.
• Colorado State Capitol Building: Recognizable by its gleaming dome, this building is a must-see. Take a free tour to learn about Colorado’s history and enjoy the view from the 13th step, precisely one mile above sea level.
• Brown Palace Hotel: This iconic hotel, known for its Art Deco style and historic charm, offers a glimpse into Denver’s past. Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea or explore the luxurious interior.
• Molly Brown House Museum: The former home of the ‘Unsinkable’ Molly Brown, a Titanic survivor, this Victorian house offers insights into her life and the early 20th century.

Museums

• Denver Art Museum: Located in the Civic Center area, this museum stands out for its Native American art collections and its unique architecture, covered in 9,000 titanium panels. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
• Clyfford Still Museum: Dedicated to Abstract Expressionist artist Clyfford Still, this museum houses an extensive collection of his work, which was kept from the public for decades.
• History Colorado Center: This museum delves into Colorado’s past with engaging exhibits on gold mining, skiing, and the indigenous Ute tribes. Notable displays include the ‘Written on the Land’ exhibition and a look at Colorado’s role in innovation, such as the invention of Crocs.
• Museo de las Américas: This museum focuses on the art and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean, showcasing both ancient and contemporary works.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: A family-friendly museum featuring interactive exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and natural history, including an impressive IMAX theater and a space for children’s activities.

Arts and Culture

• RiNo Art District: A former industrial area now transformed into a vibrant creative district, RiNo is renowned for its street art, galleries, and microbreweries. Highlights include colorful murals and unique installations throughout the neighborhood.
• Tattered Cover Bookstore: An independent bookstore with a rich history, located at 1701 Wynkoop Street. It’s a haven for book lovers and offers a cozy atmosphere for browsing and reading.
• Denver Performing Arts Complex: One of the largest performing arts centers in the country, offering a variety of performances including Broadway shows, symphony concerts, and ballet.

Dining

• Mercantile Dining and Provision: Located inside Union Station, this restaurant offers a variety of seasonally-inspired dishes. Try the avocado quinoa toast with smoked mackerel or enjoy a coffee flight.
• Central Market: Situated in RiNo, this gourmet food hall features diverse options, from pizza to vegan curry. It’s a great place to sample local flavors.
• El Five: An urban hotspot in LoHi, El Five serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes with stunning city views, ideal for a sunset dinner.

When to Visit

Denver enjoys 300 days of sunshine per year and sits a mile above sea level. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Be prepared for higher temperatures and use sunscreen to protect against altitude sickness.

Getting Around

Denver is easy to navigate with a combination of public transport, rideshares, and walking:

• Public Transport: Use the free MallRide shuttle along 16th Street Mall, Denver’s light rail service, or buses for convenient travel.
• Airport Transfer: The direct rail service from Denver International Airport to Union Station takes about 37 minutes and costs $10.50 each way.

Accommodation

• Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel: Centrally located with amenities such as a heated rooftop pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Morning: Arrive and settle into your hotel. Enjoy breakfast at Mercantile Dining and Provision.
• Afternoon: Explore Union Station, then take an eTuk tour of Denver’s highlights, including Larimer Square and the Brown Palace Hotel.
• Evening: Dine at El Five with panoramic views, and end the night with gelato at Little Man Ice Cream Parlor.

Day 2: Museums and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Denver Art Museum and Clyfford Still Museum.
• Afternoon: Head to the History Colorado Center and Colorado State Capitol Building. Lunch at 16th Street Mall.
• Evening: Discover RiNo’s street art and enjoy a craft beer or wine at a local brewery.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning: Take a trip to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a hike and exploration.
• Afternoon: Relax at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel before heading to the airport.

Travel Tips

• Altitude: Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen to prevent altitude sickness.
• Public Transport: Utilize free shuttles and light rail for efficient travel around the city.
• Advance Booking: Make reservations for popular restaurants and tours in advance to ensure availability.