Discovering Denver, CO: Exploring the Mile High City's Urban Charms and Rocky Mountain Adventures

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Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

  • Denver

  • Colorado

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Outdoors

  • Mountains

  • Hiking

  • Entertainment

A view of the Denver skyline from above.
Curator’s statement

Welcome to Denver, Colorado, the vibrant Mile High City nestled at the base of the majestic Rocky Mountains. With its bustling downtown, thriving arts scene and easy access to outdoor adventures, Denver offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the diverse attractions and experiences that make Denver a top destination for travelers seeking excitement, culture and exploration in the heart of the American West.

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Where to stay in Denver, CO

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Things to do in Denver, CO

A large rock formation with a city skyline in the distance.

Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater: Marvel at the stunning natural rock formations and catch a concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, known for its breathtaking views and acoustics.

Visit the Denver Art Museum: Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Denver Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of works spanning various periods and styles, including Native American art and contemporary masterpieces.

Stroll along the 16th Street Mall: Wander down the pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall, lined with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, and hop on the free MallRide shuttle for easy transportation.

Tour the Colorado State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the Colorado State Capitol building, where you can learn about the state's history, politics and architecture, and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens: Escape to nature at the Denver Botanic Gardens, featuring diverse gardens, outdoor art installations and special events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.

Catch a game at Coors Field: Experience the excitement of America's favorite pastime at Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies baseball team, and cheer on the home team while enjoying views of the Rocky Mountains.

Explore Union Station: Discover Denver's historic Union Station, a bustling transportation hub transformed into a vibrant gathering place with restaurants, bars, shops and a hotel.

Hike or bike along Cherry Creek Trail: Enjoy outdoor recreation along the scenic Cherry Creek Trail, which stretches for miles through Denver and offers opportunities for hiking, biking and picnicking.

Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Delve into the wonders of science and nature at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, featuring interactive exhibits, IMAX films and a planetarium.

Shop and dine in LoDo: Explore Denver's lively Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood, known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, breweries and award-winning restaurants.

Experience nightlife in RiNo: Discover Denver's vibrant River North (RiNo) Arts District, filled with galleries, breweries, distilleries and live music venues, offering a lively nightlife scene and creative energy.

Day Trips:

Rocky Mountain National Park: Embark on a scenic drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, located just one and a half hours northwest of Denver. Explore the park's breathtaking landscapes, including towering peaks, alpine lakes and lush forests. Hike along pristine trails, spot wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep and marvel at the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Boulder: Venture to the nearby city of Boulder, located just 30 miles northwest of Denver. Explore the charming downtown area with its pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall, boutique shops and farm-to-table restaurants. Hike in the Flatirons, visit the University of Colorado campus or explore the vibrant arts scene in this lively college town.

Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods: Take a day trip to Colorado Springs, situated about 70 miles south of Denver. Explore the stunning rock formations and scenic vistas of Garden of the Gods, a natural park with hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities and panoramic views of Pikes Peak. Visit the historic town of Manitou Springs, ride the cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak or tour the United States Air Force Academy.

Places to eat & drink in Denver, CO

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Fruition Restaurant: Indulge in contemporary American cuisine with French influences at Fruition Restaurant, a cozy eatery known for its inventive dishes and warm hospitality.

Mercantile Dining & Provision: Experience farm-to-table dining at Mercantile Dining & Provision, located in Denver's historic Union Station, offering a diverse menu of locally sourced dishes and house-cured meats.

Root Down: Savor globally inspired cuisine made with organic, locally sourced ingredients at Root Down, a popular restaurant housed in a converted gas station in the vibrant Highland neighborhood.

Linger: Dine in style at Linger, a unique restaurant located in a former mortuary offering globally inspired street food and panoramic views of the city skyline from its rooftop patio.

Rioja: Treat yourself to Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Rioja, an award-winning restaurant in downtown Denver known for its inventive flavors, extensive wine list and elegant ambiance.

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, where you can enjoy creative twists on classic morning dishes in a fun and lively atmosphere.

Steuben's: Dive into comfort food classics at Steuben's, a retro-inspired diner serving up American favorites like burgers, mac 'n' cheese and fried chicken in a nostalgic setting.

El Five: Experience elevated Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views of downtown Denver at El Five, a rooftop restaurant offering shareable plates, craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

ChoLon: Explore modern Asian cuisine at ChoLon, where Chef Lon Symensma serves up innovative dishes inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia in a stylish and sophisticated setting.

Work & Class: Enjoy hearty, Latin-inspired dishes at Work & Class, a casual eatery known for its welcoming atmosphere and flavorful fare, including grilled meats, seafood and seasonal vegetables.

Guard and Grace: Indulge in premium steaks and seafood at Guard and Grace, a contemporary steakhouse in downtown Denver known for its impressive selection of meats, extensive wine list and sleek, modern decor.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Alexandra Farrington’s trip report, Top Ski Lodges Across Colorado. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Denver.