- Fun and Unique Things to Do in Denver
- Top 5 Best Things to Do in Denver
- 5 Fun Things to Do in Denver with Kids
- 5 Romantic Things to Do in Denver for Couples
- 5 Unique Outdoor Things to Do in Denver
- 5 Free Things to Do in Denver
- 5 Family Things to Do in Denver
- 5 Things to Do in Downtown Denver
- Find Storage for All the Things to Do in Denver
What is there to do in Denver, Colorado? The better question may just be what isn’t there to do in the Mile High City?
Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers mountain adventures, scenic parks, live music, museums, food halls, and colorful arts districts. Whether you’re moving to Denver or just visiting for a weekend, we’ve compiled the best things to do in Denver for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fun and Unique Things to Do in Denver
There’s no shortage of things to do in Denver for visitors and residents alike. What do locals do in Denver? A little bit of everything, from outdoor recreation to arts, food, and entertainment. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up 30 fun and unique things to do in Denver.
Top 5 Best Things to Do in Denver
With so many different attractions, deciding what to do in Denver can be overwhelming. If you’re short on time, start with this condensed list of the five top things to do in Denver.
- Watch a concert or hike the towering red rocks at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
- Explore the colorful murals and galleries throughout Denver’s arts districts.
- Bike the scenic Cherry Creek Trail through parks, neighborhoods, and open space.
- Discover wildlife at the Denver Zoo.
- Experience Denver’s acclaimed food scene, from casual neighborhood eateries to Michelin-recognized restaurants.
Overall, what is the number one attraction in Denver? Many locals and visitors would point to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. While the city has plenty of iconic landmarks, Red Rocks stands out for its combination of stunning scenery, hiking trails, and one of the world’s most famous outdoor concert venues—all in one place.
Read on to discover more ideas for what to do in Denver, plus dozens of other local favorites.
5 Fun Things to Do in Denver with Kids
If you’re searching for things to do in Denver with kids, you’ll find plenty of attractions and events to keep them entertained. Here are the top five.
1. See the Wonders of Wildlife at the Denver Zoo
Spanning 80 acres, the Denver Zoo offers an up-close look at over 3,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. The zoo’s seasonal events, camps, and programs also inspire wildlife conservation efforts, which makes it one of the more popular family attractions in the city.
2. Walk Among the Butterflies
Butterfly Pavilion, north of downtown, is a champion of butterfly and insect conservation and a favorite spot among locals. Visitors can see a butterfly emerge from a chrysalis, meet a tarantula, discover underwater invertebrates, and participate in other unique hands-on exhibits.
3. Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
If your kids love dinosaurs, space exploration, and hands-on exhibits, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is definitely worth a visit. There, you can explore massive dinosaur skeletons, learn about ancient civilizations, and see an immersive show in the planetarium.
4. Pet Farm Animals at the Englewood Farm
Families with young children love spending time at Englewood Farm & Train at Belleview Park, just south of the city. Hop aboard the miniature train for a scenic ride before stopping to pet cows, goats, and alpacas at the barns.
5. Watch How Candy Is Made
With a tour of Hammond’s Candies Factory, your kids can learn about the factory’s history and see how some of their favorite sweets get made. Plus, at the end of the tour, you’ll all get to take home a sweet souvenir.
5 Romantic Things to Do in Denver for Couples
If you’re trying to plan a date night or weekend getaway, you’ll find plenty of romantic things to do in Denver.
1. Catch a Concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Few venues are more memorable than Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the number-one spot to visit on our list. If you’re headed there for the live music, make sure to arrive early if you want to explore the trails, enjoy sunset views, and settle in before the show starts.
2. Sip Cocktails with a View
Peaks Lounge, on the 27th floor of the Hyatt Regency Denver, offers handcrafted cocktails and unforgettable views of the Rocky Mountains. It’s the perfect spot for a uniquely Denver date night.
3. Stroll Through the Denver Botanic Gardens
For a more relaxed, quiet day in the city, spend an afternoon at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Its seasonal blooms, stunning art installations, and evening tours can offer up the perfect low-key date night (or day).
4. Spend Saturday Morning at the Farmer’s Market
Pick out the freshest ingredients, artisan goods, and hand-picked bouquets at the award-winning Cherry Creek Fresh Market. Maybe even use the ingredients from your market haul to prepare a romantic, homemade meal later in the day.
5. Visit Oakwell Beer Spa
For something a little different, book a session at the Oakwell Beer Spa, where you can unwind together in beer-infused baths, receive zero-gravity massages, and, of course, enjoy plenty of craft brews.
5 Unique Outdoor Things to Do in Denver
Colorado residents are known for their love of all things outdoors. Whether it’s winter or summer, Denver never misses when it comes to outdoor activities. Here are the top five outdoor things to do in Denver.
1. Camp Under the Stars
Some of the most stunning outdoor experiences are less than an hour away from the city. At Staunton State Park, for instance, you can hike forested trails and set up a tent at one of the many walk-in campsites among the tall pines.
2. Bike the Scenic Cherry Creek Trail
Stretching along the Denver metro, the Cherry Creek Trail offers miles of paved pathways for walkers, joggers, and cyclists to enjoy. The path also connects to Cherry Creek State Park and its scenic reservoir.
3. Picnic in Washington Park
Denver’s beloved Washington Park is home to flower gardens, walking trails, tennis courts, and plenty of open green space, perfect for picnicking or relaxing by one of its two lakes.
4. Boat or Paddle on Barr Lake
The calm waters at Barr Lake are ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply enjoying a lazy day on the boat. Plus, views of the shoreline can offer a great opportunity to spot some wildlife.
5. Snowboard or Ski Echo Mountain
One of Denver’s biggest perks is its easy access to the mountains. Within a few hours, you can reach more than a dozen major ski resorts. If you’re looking for the quickest way to hit the slopes, Echo Mountain is just 36 miles away.
Tip: If your garage is filled with seasonal equipment, use our guide to learn how to store summer vacation gear and outdoor equipment to help keep everything organized year-round.
5 Free Things to Do in Denver
You can enjoy the city without having to spend anything. Here are our favorite free things to do in Denver.
1. Tour the Colorado State Capitol Building
The Colorado State Capitol offers free guided tours that include access to the Dome Observation Area, where you can take in 360-degree views of Downtown Denver and the Front Range.
2. Attend a First Friday Art Walk
Each month, check out the First Friday celebration at the Art District on Santa Fe. You can explore open galleries, watch live artist demonstrations, enjoy live music, and meet the local, talented creatives.
3. Enjoy a City Park Jazz Concert
City Park Jazz puts on a series of free concerts in Downtown Denver every summer. To make the most of it, pack a blanket, bring some food, and enjoy the music alongside friends, family, and fellow Denverites.
4. Reserve Free Museum Passes with a Library Card
If you have a Denver Public Library card, you can reserve free passes to the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, the Molly Brown House Museum, and several other popular cultural institutions throughout the city.
5. Hike North Table Mountain
Just west of Denver, North Table Mountain Park is known for its scenic hiking trails and panoramic Front Range views. The relatively short but rewarding climb takes you to the mesa’s top, where you’ll find wide-open landscapes, wildflowers (in the spring), and some of the best views near the city.
5 Family Things to Do in Denver
Planning a trip with kids or teens? These family things to do in Denver will keep everyone entertained.
1. Catch a Show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is one of the largest non-profit theatre organizations in the country and hosts both Broadway hits and family-friendly productions. It’s a great way to introduce kids to live theatre while enjoying a memorable night out together.
2. Seek Thrills at Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park has roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment all in one location. With attractions for younger kids as well as thrill rides for older teens, it’s the perfect place for a full-day family outing.
3. Cheer on the Rockies at Coors Field
Watching Denver’s MLB team, the Colorado Rockies, play at Coors Field is a classic local experience. Families can enjoy stadium snacks, skyline views, and the high energy of Major League Baseball.
4. Immerse Yourself in the Meow Wolf Denver Exhibit
Meow Wolf Denver is an immersive, sci-fi art experience unlike anything else in the city. The whole family can explore surreal installations, discover hidden passages, and work through clues and interactive puzzles.
5. Enjoy a Fantasy Escape at Wizard’s Chest
The Wizard’s Chest has expanded beyond a toy store into a whimsical, fantasy castle that’s easy to get lost in, with stacks of games for teens and young adults. It also has an escape room where the whole family can test their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
5 Things to Do in Downtown Denver
There are seemingly endless opportunities for fun in Downtown Denver, but here are our top picks to add to your weekend plans.
1. Explore Denver Union Station
Denver Union Station is still a place to catch a train, but it’s also a popular gathering spot right in the heart of Downtown Denver. Inside, you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, cocktail bars, and beautifully restored architecture that make it worth a visit even if you’re not traveling.
2. Dine at Denver’s Award-Winning Restaurants
The best restaurants in Denver span casual burger joints to unforgettable Michelin-starred restaurants. If you’re looking for something more elevated near downtown, try Beckon in the River North (RiNo) Art District. With just 18 seats at the chef counter, eating here is an intimate experience with rotating tasting menus that highlight the best flavors of each season.
3. Share Some Laughs at Comedy Works
Considered one of the top five comedy clubs in the country, Comedy Works has brought top comedians to Denver for over 45 years. You’ll find both local comedians and bigger celebrities on the club’s calendar.
4. Explore Historic Denver in Larimer Square
Larimer Square is Denver’s oldest block, but this historic neighborhood still manages to feel modern and lively. With its famous string lights, historic buildings, local boutiques, and great restaurants, it’s an easy place to spend a relaxed afternoon or a fun night downtown.
5. Take the Denver Graffiti Tour
The Denver Graffiti Tour is considered one of the coolest ways to see the city. This guided walk takes you past the colorful murals and street art that have transformed some of the best neighborhoods in Denver, like North RiNo, into open-air galleries.
Find Storage for All the Things to Do in Denver
From art, entertainment, and standout dining to epic outdoor adventures, Denver truly has something for everyone. Make room for all the gear that comes with living here by using CubeSmart Denver self-storage. Whether you need space for bikes, kayaks, ski gear, or camping equipment, we’ve got storage options to fit your lifestyle. Find a CubeSmart storage facility near you.
