10 Things You Need To Do In Denver
Denver, the Mile High City, is an outdoor city known for its food, history, art, culture and sports located in the Rocky Mountains. There is so much adventure to be had in and outside of this Colorado city! With a surprising 300 days of sunshine per year, it makes exploring on foot convenient and easy.
My advice? Get inspired, explore the different neighborhoods, go for a hike, listen to live music, and eat and drink your way through Denver. Don’t worry though if you’re wondering where to start. I’ve put together a list of my top 10 things you need to do in Denver to help make your next trip a memorable experience!
Red Rock Amphitheater
Arguably one of the most iconic places to visit when in Denver is the Red Rock Amphitheater. A short drive outside of Downtown, the Amphitheater is located within the Red Rocks Park. It’s a geologically formed, open-air amphitheater, created completely by Mother Nature and is indeed something that you won’t find anywhere else in the world! Shows and concerts are hosted there, but you can also visit the Tradiing Post and Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
Pro tip: I suggest wearing comfortable shoes – you might be walking up some steep inclines!
Free Walking Tour
If you’ve been following along for awhile, you will know of my obvious love of a good walking tour! This free tour is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the city of Denver. Beginning on the steps of the Colorado State Capital, you’ll wander through the heart of downtown Denver learning about its history, unique sites and visiting its famous landmarks. Make sure to check out Denver Walking Tours to schedule yours!
Red Rocks Park and Scenic Views
Red Rocks Park is best known for its Amphitheater, but did you know there is so much more to the Parks? You can also go hiking or my personal favorite, take in the most scenic drive on your way there. Filled with beautiful red sandstone rock formations, they’ll surely take your breath away!
Infinite Monkey Theorem
A fun and unique little winery, we had the best time during our wine tasting! Located in the RiNo Arts district, it’s a woman run and operated winery focusing on making city made wine.
Fun fact: they serve bottled, kegged and canned wines.
Denver Beer Company
There are 5 locations where you can grab a pint at the Denver Beer Company. This craft brewery has specialized artisan and seasonal varieties of ales and lagers, as well as non-alcoholic and gluten free beverages as well.
Larimer Square
The iconic Larimer Square is Denver’s shopping district. Filled with Victorian buildings turned specialty boutiques and unique restaurants, it was the city’s first block. Originally laid out by William E. Larimer in 1858, it’s now the beating heart of Downtown Denver.
16th Street for Retail Therapy
Denver’s 16th street mall is a mile long pedestrian-friendly filled with shopping, restaurants, and fun attractions. Additionally, there are free shuttle buses that will take you up and down the mall, making hopping off (or on!) super convenient.
Eat at Yard House
Located inside the Sheraton Downtown, the Yard House is where we found ourselves EVERY night during our trip. We loved our server, the food, and the atmosphere!
Visit Denver Union Station
One of the most historic landmarks in Downtown Denver, Denver’s Union Station offers so much more than just being a pretty old building. First opened in 1881, surprisingly it’s a place where you can eat, shop, travel, and sleep in the luxurious Crawford Hotel.
Wynkoop Brewing Company
Rounding out my 10 things you need to do in Denver is visiting another brewery, Wynkoop Brewing Company. Located across the street from Union Station, this restaurant and brewery is a must eat at spot. As Colorado’s first Brewpub, you can take a private tour and learn more and see where the magic happens!
Have you visited Denver? Tell me in the comments if there is anything you believe I’m missing off my list!