15 Fun Things to Do in Denver, Colorado
Colorado’s capital is framed by snow-capped peaks, setting the stage for urban adventures that never really stop.
These 15 fun things to do in Denver will show you exactly why the Mile High City deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
View this post on Instagram
1. Visit the Denver Zoo to See a Wide Variety of Animals
The Denver Zoo houses over 4,000 animals from more than 700 species. Expect to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, gorillas, and tigers all in one trip.
Stingray Cove lets you safely touch and feed stingrays for a surprisingly fun encounter. Indoors, there’s a parade of exotic birds, reptiles, and tropical fish, even when it’s snowing outside.
Why It’s a Must: See thousands of fascinating animals from every continent, all in Denver’s backyard.
2. Explore the Denver Art Museum’s Impressive Collections
The Denver Art Museum features over 80,000 works in 13 collections, making it Colorado’s go-to art spot.
There’s contemporary art, ancient artifacts, and plenty of surprises tucked into some pretty striking buildings.
With the Kirkland collection now part of the mix, the galleries feel even more packed with treasures.
You might get lost—happily—among American Indian art, bold modern pieces, and international works you’ll want to linger over.
Why It’s a Must: Art from every era, jaw-dropping architecture, and a downtown location that makes it easy to pop in for inspiration.
View this post on Instagram
3. Hike or Bike the Trails at City Park
City Park sits right in Denver and gives you 330 acres to roam. The perimeter loop trail is perfect for a walk or bike ride, and you’ll pass the Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature and Science along the way.
Mix up your route—there are plenty of paths crisscrossing the park. The trails connect to Denver’s sprawling network of paved bike trails, so you can keep going if you’re feeling adventurous.
Why It’s a Must: Trails, zoo views, museum stops, and paddle boats—all wrapped up in one scenic park.
4. Catch a Concert at the Iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is tucked between two giant sandstone monoliths about 15 miles west of Denver.
The sound here is unreal. Every concert feels bigger, somehow, with those red cliffs looming around you.
Red Rocks has hosted legends like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and The Grateful Dead. These days, you’ll catch everything from EDM to indie rock under the stars.
Why It’s a Must: Natural acoustics, dramatic scenery, and a lineup that’s always worth the drive.
View this post on Instagram
5. Spend an Afternoon at the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens covers 24 acres of themed gardens, showing off plants from every corner of the globe.
Wander through a Japanese Garden, desert landscapes, and whatever’s blooming that season.
The conservatory keeps things lush year-round with tropical plants and orchids. Sculptures pop up along the paths, adding a bit of art to your stroll.
Educational programs offer everything from art classes to wellness workshops. There’s something here for anyone who likes to get their hands dirty—or just wants to chill among the flowers.
Why It’s a Must: Gorgeous gardens, creative classes, and a peaceful spot to unwind right in the city.
6. Tour the Coors Brewery in Nearby Golden
Just a short drive from Denver, the Coors Brewery in Golden gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the largest single brewery in the world. Beer’s been brewing here since 1873.
The 90-minute tour covers malting, brewing, and packaging. Vintage neon, old beer cans, and memorabilia fill the halls for a little nostalgia.
Why It’s a Must: Free beer samples with the tour, brewing history, and mountain views—what’s not to like?
View this post on Instagram
7. Local History at the Molly Brown House Museum
The Molly Brown House Museum lets you step into the 1889 Victorian home of Denver’s famous Titanic survivor.
Margaret “Molly” Brown was an activist and philanthropist who fought hard for women’s rights.
The rooms are beautifully restored, giving you a glimpse into her world. The self-guided tour is packed with stories about Denver’s mining days and Molly’s larger-than-life personality.
Why It’s a Must: Walk through Denver history and meet one of its most inspiring residents in her own home.
8. Enjoy Craft Beers at Oakwell Beer Spa
Denver’s quirkiest spa, Oakwell Beer Spa, blends craft beer with wellness in ways you probably never imagined.
Hop into hydrotherapy tubs filled with hops, barley, and seasonal herbs while sipping local brews.
Each private suite features an infrared sauna, rain shower, and lounge deck—total relaxation, Denver style.
The taproom keeps things cozy, with plenty of new beers to try between treatments. Oakwell opened in 2021 and quickly racked up five-star reviews all over the place.
Why It’s a Must: Beer-infused baths, local brews, and a spa experience you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
View this post on Instagram
9. Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park brings roller coasters, water slides, and live shows right to downtown Denver.
Colorado’s only combo theme and water park keeps things lively from spring through fall.
With over 50 rides and attractions, including the infamous Slingshot, there’s something for every adrenaline level. KiddieLand’s got the little ones covered, while thrill rides challenge the brave.
Why It’s a Must: Easy downtown access, heart-pounding rides, and water fun to keep the summer heat at bay.
10. Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station
Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station is four wild worlds of mind-bending art. Over 70 interactive installations mix storytelling with hands-on weirdness.
Here, you crawl through secret passages, touch glowing sculptures, and piece together mysteries as you wander between dimensions.
Local artists helped build this massive indoor adventure, and every room has a surprise or two.
Why It’s a Must: Interactive art, wild stories, and a chance to lose yourself in 70+ rooms you can touch and explore.
View this post on Instagram
11. Watch a Rockies Game at Coors Field
Coors Field is baseball with a Rocky Mountain backdrop. The stadium’s right downtown, so dinner before the game? Easy.
The rooftop deck is the spot for craft beer and sunset views. Stadium tours are available if you want to peek behind the scenes between games.
The crowd energy is contagious, and with the purple everywhere, you’ll want a photo.
Why It’s a Must: Downtown stadium, mountain views, and high-flying baseball action that’s always a good time.
12. Explore Larimer Square’s Shops and Restaurants
Larimer Square stands as Denver’s most cherished landmark downtown. Victorian buildings house a mix of modern retail and dining that feels just right.
Boutique shops line the block, offering unique finds and Colorado-made crafts. Shopping here feels more like treasure hunting than running errands.
The dining scene is stacked with top-rated restaurants, from classic steakhouses to Mediterranean spots you’ll want to come back to.
Why It’s a Must: Historic charm, one-of-a-kind shopping, and some of Denver’s best eats all packed into a single, walkable block.
View this post on Instagram
13. Relax at Washington Park
Washington Park is the city’s go-to green escape, with peaceful lakes and plenty of space to spread out. Bring a blanket, grab lunch, and people-watch as locals jog and bike the loop.
Paddle boats are available for rent on Smith Lake, so you can get out on the water for a bit of fun and a fresh view of the park.
Why It’s a Must: Perfect mix of relaxation, lake views, and outdoor activities in one of Denver’s favorite neighborhoods.
14. Check Out the Quirky Cruise Room Bar for Cocktails
The Cruise Room at the Oxford Hotel is pure vintage Denver. This art deco icon opened the day after Prohibition ended in 1933, making it the city’s oldest bar.
The place channels Queen Mary cruise ship vibes with moody red lighting and cozy black booths.
Order a craft cocktail, settle in, and let the jazz music set the mood—it’s a solid spot for date night or catching up with friends.
Why It’s a Must: Prohibition-era cocktails, 1930s glamour, and a bar with stories to tell.
View this post on Instagram
15. Browse the Denver Central Market’s Local Food Vendors
The Denver Central Market brings together 10 handpicked vendors inside a restored 14,000-square-foot space.
Artisan chocolates from Temper Chocolate? Check. Fresh seafood at Tammen’s Fish Market? Absolutely—plus a bunch more local flavors waiting to be discovered.
Tucked in Denver’s ever-evolving RiNo district, the food hall sports high ceilings and a cool industrial feel.
Grab a woodfired pizza from Vero Italian, or just give in to a scoop (or two) from High Point Creamery.
Specialty shops like Izzio serve up fresh bread, while Butchers at RiNo stocks premium meats for anyone craving something extra.
Why It’s a Must: Try a bunch of local eats in one spot and get a real taste of Denver’s food scene.
