From the breathtaking peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vibrant arts scene in LoDo, Denver is a city where adventure meets urban sophistication. Whether you seek outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, these top things to do in Denver blend Western heritage with modern innovation. Here are the best things to do in Denver for an unforgettable experience in the Mile High City.
Here are the best things to do in Denver for an unforgettable experience in the Mile High City.
Why Visit Denver for Adventure & Culture?
Denver’s diverse attractions offer:
🏔️ World-class mountain scenery minutes from the city
🍻 Craft breweries with innovative local flavors
🎨 Renowned museums and art installations
🚂 Historic railroads and gold rush tours
🌮 Award-winning food tours and culinary scenes
Best Things to Do in Denver
1. Discover Rocky Mountain National Park
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with guided tours that showcase alpine lakes, wildlife, and stunning mountain vistas. This is one of the most spectacular things to do in Denver for nature lovers.
- Duration: Full Day
- Highlights: Trail Ridge Road, alpine wildlife, scenic overlooks
- Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts and photographers
2. Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods
This comprehensive Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods tour takes you to two of Colorado’s most iconic natural wonders, offering breathtaking views and geological marvels.
- Duration: Full Day
- Highlights: Pikes Peak summit, Garden of the Gods rock formations
- Perfect for: First-time visitors and nature lovers
3. Best of Denver Bus Tour: Highlights, Views & Local Favorites
Discover the heart of the city with the Best of Denver Bus Tour, covering major landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and local favorites. This comprehensive tour is perfect for getting oriented with things to do in Denver.
- Duration: 3-4 Hours
- Highlights: City Park, Capitol Hill, LoDo historic district
- Perfect for: First-time visitors and city explorers
4. Red Rocks & Beyond Tour
Explore the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and surrounding areas with this guided tour that showcases one of Colorado’s most iconic natural music venues and geological wonders.
- Duration: Half Day
- Highlights: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, dinosaur ridge, mountain views
- Perfect for: Music lovers and geology enthusiasts
5. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum features an extensive collection of American Indian art and other world-class exhibits housed in architecturally stunning buildings. It’s a cultural highlight among things to do in Denver.
- Location: Civic Center
- Highlights: Native American collection, modern art, family activities
- Perfect for: Art enthusiasts and cultural explorers
6. Explore Denver by E-bike Guided Tour
Discover the city’s highlights effortlessly with an E-bike guided tour that covers more ground than walking tours while enjoying the fresh Colorado air.
- Duration: 2-3 Hours
- Highlights: City parks, river paths, urban landmarks
- Perfect for: Active travelers and adventure seekers
7. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science offers fascinating exhibits on Colorado’s natural history, space exploration, and ancient cultures, making it one of the most educational things to do in Denver.
- Location: City Park
- Highlights: Dinosaur exhibits, planetarium, Egyptian mummies
- Perfect for: Families and science enthusiasts
8. Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver
Experience the charm of a classic Colorado mountain town with this Breckenridge day trip that takes you through stunning mountain scenery to one of Colorado’s most beloved ski towns.
- Duration: Full Day
- Highlights: Mountain pass views, historic mining town, shopping
- Perfect for: Mountain lovers and day trippers
9. Denver Craft Beer Tour in Lower Downtown
Sample the best of Colorado’s craft beer scene with a LoDo beer tour that takes you to multiple breweries in Denver’s historic Lower Downtown district.
- Duration: 3-4 Hours
- Highlights: Local breweries, beer tasting, historic district
- Perfect for: Beer enthusiasts and social travelers
10. Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens offers 24 acres of beautiful gardens featuring plants from around the world, making it one of the most peaceful things to do in Denver.
- Location: Cheesman Park
- Highlights: Japanese garden, conservatory, summer concerts
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and relaxation seekers
11. Downtown Denver Food Tour
Discover Denver’s culinary scene with a downtown food tour that showcases the city’s diverse restaurants and local flavors.
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Highlights: Local cuisine, chef interactions, culinary history
- Perfect for: Foodies and culinary explorers
12. Twilight Ghost Tour
Explore Denver’s haunted history with a twilight ghost tour that reveals the city’s spooky past and paranormal activity.
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Highlights: Historic sites, ghost stories, paranormal investigations
- Perfect for: History buffs and thrill seekers
13. 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver
Discover the history of Denver’s Lower Downtown district with a guided walking tour through the city’s most historic neighborhood.
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Highlights: Victorian architecture, historic sites, urban development
- Perfect for: History enthusiasts and architecture lovers
14. Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station in Denver
Experience the mind-bending immersive art installation at Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station, one of the most unique and creative things to do in Denver.
- Location: Sun Valley
- Highlights: Interactive exhibits, otherworldly environments, art exploration
- Perfect for: Art lovers and immersive experience seekers
15. Molly Brown House Museum
Visit the historic Molly Brown House Museum to learn about the life of the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, Titanic survivor, and social activist.
- Location: Capitol Hill
- Highlights: Victorian architecture, Titanic history, women’s rights
- Perfect for: History buffs and Titanic enthusiasts
FAQs About Things to Do in Denver
Final Tips for Your Denver Visit
– Book mountain tours in advance during peak seasons
– Dress in layers for changing mountain weather
– Stay hydrated at high altitudes
– Use public transportation for downtown activities
– Check for combination tickets for multiple attractions
Whether you choose outdoor adventures in the Rockies or cultural experiences in the city, these things to do in Denver promise an unforgettable experience in Colorado’s vibrant capital. From natural wonders to urban explorations, Denver offers diverse activities for every type of traveler.
