Top Things to Do in Denver On Any Budget for Visitors

Welcome to one of the best travel destinations in the USA, often called as the Mile High City. Denver, a great place located in the beautiful backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. This place is a perfect blend of city life with nature’s beauty. Here you can explore world-class museums, great food and craft beer with an outstanding view of nearby mountains. Well, no matter whether you are a food lover, an art lover or an adventure lover. This place has something for everyone. So, if you are planning to visit then keep reading this blog till the end to know some of the best things to do in Denver and have enough information about it. 

What Makes Denver Best Travel Destination?

Denver is considered as one of the best travel destinations in US. Because, visiting here will stun you. No matter whether you are a nature lover, an adventure lover or a city life explorer. This place has something for everyone. Also, this city is famous for its world-class craft beer, delicious local food, and outstanding art and crafts. While enjoying city life if you get bored then you can escape to the mountains and get a very calm and peaceful vibe. 

Best Things To Do In Denver

There are various things you can do in Denver. Mainly depends on what your preferences are. No matter if you are visiting with your partner, family, friends or alone, this place will never disappoint you. For every need this place has something. Let’s have a detailed view of it. 

Best Free Things to Do in Denver

If you are planning a budget-friendly trip then don’t worry. With a minimum budget, you can also explore Denver without any problem. Only you need to plan perfectly.

Explore Free Museums & Cultural Spots

• U.S. Mint Tour: In this tour you will see and understand the live coin-making procedure.  
• Denver Art Museum: This place is famous for its outstanding art collection. Well, not only art but it’s also famous for its unique architecture. 
• CSU Spur: This is a public campus where you can have fun, see interactive exhibits, a live veterinary clinic, and exciting research. 
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: In this museum you get to see dinosaur fossils, space exhibits and also get a chance to explore the planetarium.

Walking Tours & Historic Places

• Colorado State Capitol: It’s an old historic building in Denver famous for its gold dome and Mile High Steps.
• Denver Millennium Bridge: This is an iconic bridge famous for its crescent shaped designed. Also, this bridge connects river front park with LoDo.
• Denver Union Station: A great historic but vibrant place is Denver. Here you can explore various shops, foods and many more. 

Explore Street Arts & Vibrant Neighbourhood

• RiNo (River North) Art District: This is a super vibrant neighbourhood of Denver. It has been famous because of street art, cool galleries and beautiful cafes. 
• First Friday Art Walks: The first Friday of every month the art galleries and studios are open till late night for people to explore. Also there are live music performances with awesome food stalls.

Explore Parks, Views & Outdoor Music

• Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge: A big nature and wildlife reserve near Denver. Here you can see deer, bison and eagles. Also, famous for its safaris.  
• City Park Jazz: This is the iconic summer music festival. Here you can enjoy delicious food with amazing live music. 

Things to Do in Denver for Food Lovers

Famous Foods To Try

• Colorado Mountain Pie: This is a thick-crust pizza with heavy edges. The edges are meant to be eaten with honey at the end. 
• Colorado Green Chile: A spicy thick stew made from roasted chillies, pork, and tomato. 
• The Denver Omelet: This is the classic breakfast of Denver. In this, diced ham, green bell peppers, onions, and lots of cheese are used. 
• The Mexican Hamburger: This is a bean and meat burrito with a burger patty, green chile stew and lots of cheese. 
• Sopapillas: This is a deep-fried puffy pastry served with honey as dessert. 
• The Denver Omelet: This is the classic breakfast of Denver. In this, diced ham, green bell peppers, onions, and lots of cheese are used. 
• Rocky Mountain Oysters: Oysters is only in name. Actually these are testicles of bulls, sheep, or pigs. Deeply fried and served as an appetizer. 

Best Restaurants In Denver

• Alma Fonda Fina (LoHi): Here you can have authentic Mexican food. Also, a good place for hanging out. 
• Annette (Aurora / Stanley Marketplace): This is a cozy type of place that serves fresh seasonal American dishes. Make sure to try wood-fired food here. 
• Beckon (RiNo): This is a premium restaurant where you get a multicourse seasonal menu with amazing presentation. 
• Hop Alley (RiNo): If you love modern Chinese food then this place is for you. Enjoy your food with beautiful live music. 
• Uchiko (Cherry Creek): Here you can try authentic Japanese food like sushi with real flavours. 
• El Five (LoHi): This place serves delicious Mediterranean tapas. While enjoying your food you get a beautiful rooftop view of the Denver skyline. 
• Blue Pan Pizza (West Highlands & Congress Park): Pizza lovers need to visit. Here you can have authentic Detroit-style pizza with a thick crunchy crust and cheesy corners. 
• Spuntino (LoHi): A must-visit restaurant in Denver. Here you can get amazing Italian food with an Indian touch. 

Denver Breweries and Craft Beer Tours

• Denver Beer Co. (LoHi): This is a great place to hang out with friends. Here you can have amazing local craft beers. 
• Bierstadt Lagerhaus (RiNo): If you love classic German beers then make sure to have Slow Pour Pilsner here. Also, the big hall and games vibe will give an outstanding experience here.
• Platte River Brewery E-Bike Tour: Enjoy riding E- bike near the Platte River with craft beer in nearby craft beer breweries. 
• Wynkoop Brewing Company (LoDo): This is the first brewpub in Denver. They serve amazing beer and delicious food so don’t forget to visit here and try.
• Great Divide Brewing Company (Five Points/RiNo): A must-visit spot for craft beer lovers. Also, famous for strong beers like Yeti Imperial Stout. 
• Denver Microbrew Tour: This is a walkable tour. In this tour you get to know about Denver’s beer history and explore various breweries. 

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Denver

• Denver Zoo: Here you see exotic animals and interactive exhibits. A perfect place for family hangouts with children. 
• Interactive Museums for Kids: Denver Children’s Museum and the Museum of nature and science are perfect places for them. Here they can learn a lot through games and activities. 
• Downtown Aquarium: This place is mostly loved by kids. Here you can see about 500 types of marine species and a big shark tank. 
• Outdoor Activities for Families: You can have a picnic in the city park or hike on the nearby trails. Also you can enjoy bike riding. 

Romantic Things to Do in Denver for Couples

Scenic Sunset Spots 

• Mount Falcon Park: Here you can have great biking and hiking experience. Rather than this you get a beautiful view of sunset and Denver skyline. 
• Inspiration Point Park: One of the best places in Denver to see sunset. Also from this hilltop park you can get an amazing view of city and Rocky Mountains.  
• City of Kunming Park: This is a small and quiet park where you can see a beautiful sunset. It gives you a calm and relaxing vibe. 
• Sloan’s Lake Park: This is the biggest lake park in Denver famous for boating, jogging and picnics. Here you see a great combination of city and sunset view. 

Romantic Restaurants

• Olivia: This is a famous Michelin recommended restaurant. Their handmade pasta and unique cocktails are a must-try  
• Barolo Grill: This is a premium dining restaurant, best for its Northern Italian cuisine and wine. 
• Odyssey Italian Restaurant: This is a cozy romantic restaurant that offers old-school Italian food with outstanding wines. 
• La Forêt: This is a forest-themed rustic French restaurant and cocktail bar. It’s famous for classic Italian dishes and outstanding cocktails. 

Couple Activities and Date Ideas

• Relax at the Oakwell Beer Spa: Enjoy beer infused hydrotherapy baths and massages while sipping craft beer. 
• Golden Hour at Lookout Mountain: This is a great place for romantic dates. During sunset you get an outstanding view of denver skyline and mountains
• Hike to an Alpine Lake: You can hike nearby to alpine lakes and get a calm and peaceful vibe with an outstanding scenic view.
• A Night at the Drive-In: Enjoy a movie in a retro style while sitting in your car. A great place for romantic date night.

Denver Nightlife and Entertainment

Rooftop Bars in Denver

• 54thirty Rooftop: This is the highest open-air rooftop bar in Denver. You can enjoy amazing cocktails with a great of city and mountains. 
• Departure at The Maven: This place is designed in an aviation theme. Here you can try modern asian cuisine with innovative drinks. 
• Linger: This place is famous for serving global street food. Also famous for its outstanding view of city from the rooftop. 
• Avanti F&B: This is a modern food hall where you get various food stalls, bars and amazing rooftop patio. 

Live Music Venues

• The Mission Ballroom: This is a modern concert venue famous for its state of the art sound system and adjustable stage. You get a next level experience here. 
• Bluebird Theater:  This is one of the historic venues of Denver. The local artists meet here to have some energetic concerts. 
• Ogden Theatre: This is also one of the historic venues in Denver. Here you can enjoy listening to rock, pop and electronic artists. 

Comedy Clubs and Theaters

• Paramount Theatre: This is a historic downtown theatre where big comedy shows and concerts are performed. 
• Denver Comedy Lounge: This is one of the best spots in Denver to experience stand-up comedy. With that you can enjoy great food and drinks. 
• RISE Comedy: If you love watching improv, sketch comedy or stand-up then this is a great place for it. Also one of the best places for a night out. 
• The Denver Center for the Performing Arts: This is the biggest cultural hub in Denver. Here you can see world-class plays, top-tier musical and theatrical performances.

Insider Tip: Knowing best events are important in Denver. For that you can go to DCPA Tickets & Events Website to checkout upcoming events and book tickets.

Best Areas for Nightlife

• LoHi (Lower Highland): This place is famous for its rooftops and outstanding cocktails. A great spot for hangouts.
• LoDo (Lower Downtown) & Union Station: It’s the main nightlife hub of Denver. Here you can explore amazing bars, parties and dance clubs. 
• RiNo (River North Art District): This is a place with a creative environment. Here you can explore craft breweries, cideries and live music venues. 
• South Broadway (SoBo) & Baker: This area is filled with dive bars, vintage shops and indie music spots. If you want to have a new experience then visit this place. 
• East Colfax & Capitol Hill: This is a famous place for late-night parties. Here you can explore iconic music theaters and late-night diners. 

Best Attractions in Denver for First-Time Visitors

Visit Denver Botanic Gardens

Main Highlight: Science Pyramid and Chihuly glass artwork. 

This is a great spot for spending the afternoon. Here you’ll be surrounded by lush foliage, vibrant exotic plants and various themed gardens. It’s the ultimate nature lover’s destination and a photographer’s paradise.

Walk Through Larimer Square

Main Highlight: Beautiful Victorian Buildings and overhead canopy lights. 

Walking here feels very calm and cozy. So, while having a walk you can explore local culture and food here. Also, this place offers great boutique shopping experience, dining at top-rated restaurants and open-air cafes. However during nighttime this place becomes more beautiful. 

Explore Union Station

Main Highlight: The stunning Great Wall, often called as the living room of Denver. 

Visiting here will be a lively and happening experience for you. This place is best for hangouts. Here you can explore various boutique shops and award-winning restaurants or else you can just chill in the Crawford Hotel’s bar. 

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Main Highlight: Natural acoustic environment surrounded by two giant red sandstone formations. 

Visiting here will be a magical experience for you. No matter whether you are enjoying a concert at night or hiking in the early morning. The spectacular view of the city is what makes people go crazy. Also, this is the only place in the world where you can see a naturally occurring amphitheatre. 

Discover Art at the Denver Art Museum

Main Highlight: Hamilton Building, famous for its futuristic titanium design and Indigenous Arts of North America. 

Well, it’s not like a regular boring museum. This place offers something for every age group and makes people understand art which is quite interesting. Also, here you can see its unique architecture and make sure to go to the top floor and see the beautiful Denver skyline view. 

Hidden Gems in Denver Most Tourists Miss

Lakeside Amusement Park

This is a classic and historic amusement park in Denver. It has been running since 1908 and here you can explore wooden roller coaster of that time. Also, from here you get a beautiful scenic from Lake Rhoda. Well, it’s a very affordable place and one of the best places to spend your evening with friends and family. 

Dikeou Collection

This is a unique contemporary art collection in downtown Denver. If you want to have something different from conventional museums then definitely visit this place. Coming here you see various international sculptures, avant-garde art and many out of the box things. Well, this place is owned by a private family trust and the best part is that entry is free for all. 

The Cruise Room

This is Denver’s first post-prohibition lounge running since 1993 inside the Oxford Hotel. The design done here is inspired by the famous Queen Mary ship. Well, here you can see stunning art decor, iconic chrome bar, dim red lighting and classic martinis. Coming here will give you an old and vintage vibe. 

Roxborough State Park

A great place located near Denver famous for its big red stone formations. If you want an escape-type place and a peaceful vibe then surely visit this place. Here you can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The quiet environment and beautiful natural surroundings are what make this place special. 

Best Time to Visit Denver

The best time you can visit Denver is during the shoulder season. From April to May and September to October. During that time the weather is mild and the crowd is much less which makes it easy to explore. Also the stays are cheaper and easily available. So, if you are fond of skiing and snow activities then December to March will be a great time for you to visit. Or if you are here for hiking and outdoor activities then June to August is the best time. However its the peak time and almost everything is quite expensive. 

How Many Days Do You Need in Denver?

Well 4 to 5 days are enough if you plan perfectly. Try to cover the city life in the first two days, explore Denver art museums, local craft breweries,  and other city things. After that in the next two days you can peacefully explore the mountains, visit Rocky Mountain National Park and have a great hiking experience. 

Travel Tips

• Pack clothes for all seasons.
• Use sunscreen daily.
• Always carry water and stay hydrated to avoid high altitude sickness
• To avoid transportation tension book a charter bus rental in Colorado and explore peacefully throughout the trip.
• Always keep an eye on the weather forecast. Sudden thunderstorms are quite common in this place. 
• Book everything in advance if visiting in peak season.
• If you are consuming alcohol then consume as little as possible because at higher altitude alcohol hits faster. 

Final Thoughts

Overall Denver is a type of place where almost no one bores. Whether you are a nature lover or a city explorer, this place has something for everyone. Visiting here can never be a bad choice for you. The perfect blend of nature with modern times is what makes people visit here. So, without further delay plan your trip, have fun and make beautiful memories.