Denver, Colorado, the Mile High City, is a vibrant metropolis at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic urban life, Denver offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of your trip to Denver, including travel tips, must-see attractions, dining recommendations, and essential advice.

Planning Your Trip to Denver

Best Time to Visit

Denver is a year-round destination with distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences:

• Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and numerous festivals. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s parks and gardens.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season, with warm temperatures perfect for hiking, biking, and attending outdoor concerts. However, be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
• Fall (September to November): Fall is arguably the best time to visit, with crisp air, vibrant fall foliage, and fewer crowds. It’s perfect for hiking, enjoying scenic drives, and participating in harvest festivals.
• Winter (December to February): Winter attracts visitors for its proximity to world-class ski resorts. Denver itself offers winter events, ice skating, and a festive atmosphere.

Getting There

Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, making it a convenient entry point for domestic and international travelers.

• Transportation from the Airport: The RTD A Line train offers a quick and affordable 37-minute ride from the airport to Union Station in downtown Denver. Taxis, ride-shares, and shuttle services are also available.

Getting Around

Denver’s transportation system is efficient and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate the city.

• Public Transit: The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates buses, light rail, and commuter trains throughout Denver and its suburbs. It’s a cost-effective way to get around, especially in the downtown area.
• Biking: Denver is a bike-friendly city with extensive bike lanes and trails. The city also offers bike-sharing programs like Denver B-cycle, which provide convenient short-term rentals.
• Walking: Downtown Denver is highly walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach.
• Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available for convenient and flexible transportation.

Where to Stay in Denver

Luxury Hotels

• The Ritz-Carlton, Denver: Located in the heart of downtown, The Ritz-Carl

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, offers luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and exquisite dining at ELWAY’S Downtown. It’s perfect for those seeking comfort and top-notch service.

• The Crawford Hotel: Situated within Union Station, The Crawford Hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy direct access to dining and shopping options right within the station.

Mid-Range Hotels

• The Maven Hotel: Located in the Dairy Block, The Maven Hotel features stylish accommodations with a vibrant atmosphere. It’s close to major attractions and offers easy access to dining and entertainment.
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver: This boutique hotel offers eclectic decor, a nightly wine hour, and pet-friendly policies. Its central location makes it an excellent choice for exploring downtown.

Budget Accommodations

• Hostel Fish: A trendy hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, Hostel Fish provides a lively social environment in downtown Denver. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to meet others.
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Denver Central: Offering comfortable rooms and free breakfast, this budget-friendly hotel is near Coors Field and provides easy access to downtown attractions.

Top Attractions in Denver

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum (DAM) is renowned for its vast collection of Native American art, contemporary works, and European masterpieces. The museum’s architecture, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is a stunning piece of art itself.

• Exhibits: Explore diverse collections ranging from indigenous artifacts to modern art.
• Special Exhibitions: DAM frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that offer fresh perspectives on various art forms and historical periods.

Union Station

Union Station is more than a transit hub; it’s a vibrant gathering place featuring restaurants, bars, shops, and the Crawford Hotel.

• Dining: Enjoy a meal at Mercantile Dining & Provision or a coffee at Pigtrain Coffee Co.
• Shopping: Browse unique shops like Tattered Cover Bookstore and 5 Green Boxes.
• Events: Check the schedule for local events, live music, and markets held in and around the station.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Located just outside Denver, Red Rocks Park is famous for its stunning red sandstone formations and world-renowned amphitheater.

• Hiking: Trails like Trading Post Trail and Red Rocks Trail offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the unique geology.
• Concerts: Experience a concert at the amphitheater, which hosts major music acts in a beautiful natural setting.
• Visitor Center: Learn about the history and geology of Red Rocks at the Visitor Center.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens provide a peaceful escape with beautiful gardens and conservatories.

• Exhibits: Explore themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden and the Tropical Conservatory.
• Events: Attend seasonal events like the Spring Plant Sale or Blossoms of Light during the holiday season.
• Education: Participate in workshops and classes on gardening, art, and wellness.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

This museum offers engaging exhibits on natural history, science, and space exploration.

• Dinosaurs: Discover impressive dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.
• Space Odyssey: Explore space science with hands-on exhibits and a planetarium.
• IMAX Theater: Enjoy educational films on a giant screen for an immersive experience.

Coors Field

Home to the Colorado Rockies, Coors Field is a must-visit for baseball fans.

• Tours: Take a behind-the-scenes tour to see the field, dugout, and clubhouse.
• Games: Catch a game during the MLB season and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Rooftop: Visit The Rooftop, a popular spot for socializing and enjoying views of the field and the city.

Exploring Denver’s Neighborhoods

LoDo (Lower Downtown)

LoDo is Denver’s oldest neighborhood, known for its historic buildings, lively nightlife, and bustling food scene.

• Larimer Square: This historic block features Victorian buildings housing shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Union Station: A central hub for dining, shopping, and transportation.
• Nightlife: Enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and clubs in the area.

RiNo (River North Art District)

RiNo is a hub for art, culture, and innovation, known for its vibrant street art and creative spaces.

• Art Galleries: Explore contemporary art at galleries like RedLine and Robischon Gallery.
• Street Art: Wander the streets to see colorful murals and graffiti.
• Breweries: Visit local breweries like Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks.

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a diverse and eclectic neighborhood, home to historic landmarks, museums, and parks.

• Denver Capitol Building: Tour the Colorado State Capitol and its stunning golden dome.
• Molly Brown House Museum: Learn about the life of Titanic survivor Molly Brown in her historic home.
• Cheesman Park: Relax in this expansive urban park, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.

Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek is an upscale neighborhood known for its high-end shopping, dining, and art galleries.

• Cherry Creek Shopping Center: Shop at luxury stores like Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., and Nordstrom.
• Cherry Creek North: Explore 16 blocks of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
• Cherry Creek Trail: Enjoy biking or walking along this scenic trail that follows Cherry Creek.

Dining in Denver

Must-Try Local Foods

Denver’s culinary scene is diverse, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative dishes.

• Rocky Mountain Oysters: Try this local delicacy, which is actually deep-fried bull testicles, often served with dipping sauce.
• Green Chili: A staple in Colorado cuisine, green chili is typically made with pork, tomatoes, and roasted green chilies.
• Bison Burger: Enjoy a juicy bison burger, which is leaner and richer in flavor than beef.

Top Restaurants

Mercantile Dining & Provision

Located in Union Station, Mercantile offers farm-to-table dishes crafted by Chef Alex Seidel. The menu features seasonal ingredients and innovative preparations.

Root Down

This sustainable eatery in LoHi (Lower Highlands) serves globally inspired cuisine with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The eclectic menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Acorn

Situated in the hip RiNo district, Acorn offers a menu of shared plates and creative cocktails in a stylish industrial setting. The dishes are prepared using a wood-fired grill for unique flavors.

Food Markets

Nestled in Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood, the Denver Central Market beckons food enthusiasts with its lively atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings. This bustling food hall is a haven for gastronomes, boasting an eclectic mix of vendors dishing out everything from fresh seafood and gourmet sandwiches to artisanal chocolates and craft cocktails. Meanwhile, just a stone’s throw away, the Union Station Farmers Market springs to life every Saturday during the summer months, showcasing the bounty of Colorado’s local harvest. Here, visitors can peruse stalls brimming with fresh produce, local meats, and artisanal products, indulging in the region’s flavors while mingling with the farmers and producers behind the goods. Whether you’re craving a culinary adventure or seeking to savor the essence of Denver’s food scene, both the Denver Central Market and Union Station Farmers Market promise a delectable experience for all who visit.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking and Biking

Situated at the edge of the Rocky Mountains, Denver serves as an excellent starting point for numerous outdoor adventures. Mount Falcon Park, a brief drive from downtown, provides hikers with trails that offer stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the city skyline, along with historical sites and serene picnic areas. Cherry Creek State Park is another expansive natural haven, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. Its extensive trail system, including the Cherry Creek Trail, is ideal for both biking and walking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors.

City Parks

Washington Park, affectionately known as “Wash Park,” is a beloved urban oasis featuring beautiful gardens, serene lakes, and extensive walking trails. It’s a perfect spot for picnics, jogging, and paddle boating, offering a tranquil escape within the city. Similarly, City Park provides ample green space for a variety of outdoor activities. Home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, this park also boasts a scenic lake and a golf course, making it a hub for both recreation and relaxation.

Winter Sports

Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it an excellent base for winter sports enthusiasts. The region boasts world-class ski resorts that offer skiing, snowboarding, and a variety of other winter activities, all within a short drive from the city. Additionally, during the winter months, outdoor ice skating rinks pop up around Denver, providing festive and fun opportunities for skating, including a popular rink at Skyline Park.

Cultural Experiences

Performing Arts

The Denver Performing Arts Complex, one of the nation’s largest performing arts centers, is a haven for culture enthusiasts. It regularly features an array of performances, including Broadway shows, ballet, opera, and symphony concerts, making it a vital stop for anyone seeking a rich cultural experience. Another exceptional venue, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, provides a unique setting for concerts and events year-round. Known for its stunning natural acoustics and breathtaking views, it offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Museums

In addition to its extensive permanent collection, the Denver Art Museum regularly hosts traveling exhibitions and special events.Dedicated to the works of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still, this museum offers a deep dive into his life and art.

Festivals

Held annually in the fall, the Denver Film Festival showcases a wide array of films, from indie gems to international hits.Beer lovers flock to Denver each fall for the Great American Beer Festival, which features thousands of brews from across the country.

Essential Tips for Visiting Denver

Altitude Adjustment

Denver’s high altitude can affect visitors, particularly those coming from lower elevations. Here are some tips to help you adjust:

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Pace Yourself: Take it easy on your first day to allow your body to acclimate.
• Sunscreen: The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes, so apply sunscreen regularly.