Denver is located exactly 1,609 meters above sea level, proudly earning the nickname The Mile High City. Due to this elevation, the thinner air might take some getting used to initially. However, it usually doesn’t take long before you can fully enjoy everything this unique American city has to offer.
While Denver is primarily known as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, the city itself is just as intriguing. You’ll find colorful street art, vibrant neighborhoods, surprising museums, and an impressive craft beer scene. Moreover, nature and city are remarkably close here.
Whether you’re strolling through Downtown Denver, discovering local restaurants and breweries, or heading from the city towards the mountains, there’s plenty to experience. The attractions of Denver make the city much more than just a stopover on the way to the Rocky Mountains.
At a glance: what to do in Denver?
- Explore the colorful neighborhoods of RiNo, Capitol Hill, and LoDo
- Admire art and architecture at the Denver Art Museum
- Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
- Taste local craft beers at one of the many breweries
- Dive into Colorado’s history at the History Colorado Center
- Escape the city bustle in Washington Park or City Park
- Go shopping and discover great restaurants in the Highland neighborhood
- Visit Union Station, the historic station in the heart of Denver
Why Denver is different than you think
Many people see Denver primarily as a stopover on the way to the Rocky Mountains. However, this underestimates the city. Denver has its own unique character, where history, nature, and a modern lifestyle come together.
The city grew significantly during the gold rush of 1859, when thousands of fortune seekers flocked to Colorado. That pioneering spirit is still palpable today. Old warehouses have made way for restaurants and art galleries, while former industrial neighborhoods have transformed into vibrant urban areas.
Additionally, Denver is known for its dry and sunny climate. Although it often snows in winter, the snow doesn’t linger long due to the abundant sunshine. Summers, on the other hand, are warm and relatively dry. Moreover, the high altitude ensures clear days where the skyline stands out beautifully against the Rocky Mountains.
At the same time, Denver feels surprisingly young and energetic. This is evident in the many breweries, restaurants, street art, and creative initiatives. As a result, the city combines the relaxed outdoor lifestyle of Colorado with the vibrancy of a modern American city.
The most beautiful attractions of Denver
Denver has enough attractions to keep you busy for several days. Moreover, the offerings are surprisingly varied: from modern art and local history to green city parks and colorful neighborhoods. Here are some places you don’t want to miss.
| Attraction | Why visit? | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Denver Art Museum | The striking architecture alone is worth a visit. Inside, you’ll find art from Indigenous creators, contemporary art, photography, fashion, and design. | Allocate about 2 to 3 hours for your visit. |
| Clyfford Still Museum | A unique museum almost entirely dedicated to the work of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still, offering a great insight into his development as an artist. | Located near the Denver Art Museum, making it easy to combine visits. |
| History Colorado Center | Discover how Colorado has evolved in an interactive way, from the original inhabitants and mining to migration and modern Denver. | A great choice if you want more background on the city and state. |
| Union Station | The historic train station from 1881 is now much more than a transportation hub. You’ll find restaurants, cafés, and an impressive station hall. | Located in the heart of LoDo, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring Downtown Denver. |
| City Park | A large city park where locals walk, exercise, and relax. Additionally, you can enjoy views of the skyline and mountains from various spots. | Perfect for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. |
| Washington Park | A beloved green space with lakes, walking paths, and plenty of room to relax. | Especially enjoyable on a sunny morning or afternoon. |
| RiNo Art District | Former industrial buildings, street art, galleries, restaurants, and breweries give this neighborhood a creative character. | Wander through the district without a fixed route and let yourself be surprised along the way. |
Explore The Mile High City by bike with Baja Bikes
Want to truly get to know Denver? Hop on a bike. During the Denver Highlights Bike Tour with Baja Bikes, you’ll spend three hours with a local guide. As you cycle through various neighborhoods, you’ll hear stories about the city, its history, and daily life in The Mile High City.
You start in Five Points and quickly pedal into the colorful RiNo Art District. Here, all you need to do is look around: former industrial buildings have been transformed into massive artworks, and new murals pop up everywhere. You’ll also pass by well-known spots like Coors Field, Dairy Block, Union Station, and Millennium Bridge. Larimer Square, the Colorado State Capitol, and Cheesman Park are also on the route.
Along the way, you’ll stop at Denver Central Market for a short break. It’s a great time to look around before hopping back on your bike. In total, you’ll cover about 25 kilometers, but with frequent stops for explanations, it won’t feel like you’re just clocking up miles.
Plus, you’ll be cycling in a small group of up to 8 participants. This allows plenty of room for questions and you’ll receive personal tips from your guide along the way. The bike, helmet, and local guide are included, and the minimum age for this tour is 13 years.
Taste Denver: from green chile to craft beer
Denver also has plenty to offer in terms of cuisine. Mexican influences, American classics, great coffee, and especially a lot of locally brewed beer come together here. Want to know what to try and where? Here are a few great spots:
| Where? | What to try? | Why it’s great? |
|---|---|---|
| My Brother’s Bar | Burger and green chile | A true Denver classic with a long history and a relaxed, local vibe. |
| Great Divide Brewing Company | Craft beer | A renowned Denver brewery and a fun place to try various local beers. |
| The Source | From small dishes to drinks | Various dining and drinking spots under one roof, making it easy to try multiple things. |
| Novo Coffee | Local coffee | Perfect for a quiet start to your day with good coffee. |
| Little Owl Coffee | Espresso or cappuccino | A small coffee shop perfect for a pit stop while exploring the city. |
And don’t forget green chile. This spicy sauce made from green peppers, often combined with pork and spices, is found everywhere in Denver. It’s served over burritos, eggs, and fries, for example. Each kitchen gives it its own twist, so you actually have a good excuse to try it multiple times.
Best time to visit Denver
Denver experiences four distinct seasons, and the city looks different throughout the year. From warm summer days to a wintery Denver with snow-capped mountains in the background, each season has its charm. See below for the best time that suits you.
| Season | Weather | Advantages | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Cool to pleasant, variable | Quieter and nature comes back to life | Snow is still possible, especially early in spring |
| Summer (June–August) | Warm and sunny | Long days and plenty of outdoor activities | Busier and chance of afternoon thunderstorms |
| Fall (September–November) | Pleasant to cool, often sunny | Beautiful fall colors and less crowded | Especially later in the season, evenings can get quite cold |
| Winter (December–February) | Cold with regular snow | Ideal for combining a city trip with winter sports in the Rockies | Be prepared for winter conditions and temperature variations |
In our opinion, September and early October are wonderful months to visit Denver. During the day, temperatures are often still pleasant, while the peak summer crowds have subsided. Moreover, the trees in and around Denver slowly turn yellow, gold, and orange. Combined with the Rocky Mountains in the background, this creates a stunning picture.
Plan your visit to Denver
Denver is one of those cities where you might find yourself staying longer than planned. Ideally, set aside two to three days to explore the city. Start in Downtown with Union Station and the museums, then explore the colorful neighborhoods of RiNo and LoDo. If you have the time, reserve a third day for nature. After all, the Rocky Mountains are practically just around the corner.
When planning, keep Denver’s unique location in mind. The city sits at about 1,609 meters above sea level, so you might find yourself a bit short of breath on the first day. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and even in summer, bring an extra layer. Once the sun sets, it can get quite chilly.
Don’t feel the need to plan everything out. Stroll through a neighborhood that piques your interest, relax on a terrace, or sample a local beer at one of the many breweries. It’s the combination of city life, a relaxed atmosphere, and stunning nature that makes Denver such a delightful destination.
And after that? Perhaps the Rocky Mountains are calling again… 🏔️
Frequently asked questions about Denver attractions
How many days do you need for Denver?
With two to three days, you’ll have enough time to discover Denver’s main attractions. For example, dedicate one day to Downtown and the museums, and use a second day to explore neighborhoods like RiNo and LoDo. If you want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, plan for at least one extra day.
Is Denver expensive?
Denver is not a cheap American destination. Accommodations in and around Downtown can be quite pricey. Costs for restaurants, museums, and activities can also add up quickly. You can save by staying outside the city center, using public transportation, and visiting local markets and food halls.
How do I get from the airport to downtown Denver?
From Denver International Airport, you can easily take the A Line to Union Station in Downtown Denver. The train ride takes about 37 minutes, making it a convenient way to reach the city center without a rental car or taxi.
Is Denver suitable for cycling?
Yes, Denver is a great city to explore by bike. There is an extensive network of bike paths and routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. You can easily combine different neighborhoods. RiNo, LoDo, and the green areas around the city parks are especially enjoyable to explore by bike.
What should you eat in Denver?
Be sure to try a dish with green chile during your visit. This spicy sauce made from green peppers is an integral part of the local cuisine and is served with burritos and egg dishes, among others. Denver is also known for its craft beer, so visiting a local brewery is a must.