15 Fun Things to Do When Traveling to Denver
Denver, the Mile High City, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and culture buffs alike.
Here are 15 fun things to do next time you travel to Denver.
Visit the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Located in the heart of Denver, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a must-see for any traveler. The museum is home to a wide variety of exhibits, including an IMAX theater, a planetarium, and a hands-on science exhibit for kids. The museum also hosts a number of special events and programs throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and film screenings. For more information, visit their website at https://www.dmns.org/.
Take a Hike in the Rocky Mountains
Denver is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities in the nearby Rocky Mountains. There are a number of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging, so you can find one that's right for your fitness level. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top of a 14,000-foot peak! For more information on trails and hikes in the area, visit https://www.colorado.com/hiking-trails.
Explore the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is home to an impressive collection of art, including works by American, European, and Native American artists. The museum's collection spans a wide range of styles and periods, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts a number of special exhibitions and events throughout the year. For more information, visit their website at https://www.denverartmuseum.org/.
Visit the Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals from all over the world, including lions, gorillas, and polar bears. The zoo is also home to a number of conservation and research programs, so you can learn about the work being done to protect animals and their habitats. In addition to the animals, the zoo also has a number of interactive exhibits, such as a petting zoo and a behind-the-scenes tour. For more information, visit their website at https://www.denverzoo.org/.
Take a brewery tour
Denver is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with more than 200 breweries in the metro area. There are a number of brewery tours available, which will take you to some of the city's best breweries and allow you to sample a variety of beers. Some tours focus on specific neighborhoods or breweries, while others offer a more general overview of the city's beer scene. For more information on brewery tours in Denver, visit https://www.colorado.com/articles/denver-brewery-tours.
Go shopping at the Cherry Creek Mall
The Cherry Creek Mall is one of the premier shopping destinations in Denver, with more than 160 stores and restaurants. The mall is home to a mix of high-end retailers and more affordable options, so you can find something to suit your budget. In addition to the shopping, the mall also has a number of dining options, ranging from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. For more information, visit their website at https://www.shopcherrycreek.com/.
Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with more than 45 acres of gardens and outdoor exhibits to explore. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants, including rare and exotic species, and there are also a number of special events and programs throughout the year. Some of the gardens' highlights include the Japanese Garden, the Rock Alpine Garden, and the Tropical Conservatory. For more information, visit their website at https://www.botanicgardens.org/.
Check out the Denver Art District
The Denver Art District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, studios, and creative spaces. The district is home to a thriving arts community, and you can find everything from traditional fine art to contemporary installations. Be sure to check out the First Friday Art Walk, when galleries and studios stay open late and offer special events and exhibitions. For more information on the Denver Art District, visit https://www.denverartdistrict.org/.
Go skiing or snowboarding in the Rocky Mountains
Denver is just a short drive from some of the best ski resorts in the country, so you can hit the slopes during your visit. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier or snowboarder, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Some of the popular ski resorts near Denver include Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Breckenridge. For more information on ski resorts in the area, visit https://www.colorado.com/ski-resorts.
Visit the Denver Mint
The Denver Mint is one of the largest and most technologically advanced mints in the world, and it's open for tours. The tours take you behind the scenes to see how coins are made and learn about the history of the mint. For more information, visit their website at https://www.usmint.gov/mint_tours/?action=denver.
Check out the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art
The Denver Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-see for art lovers, with a collection that focuses on contemporary art and design. The museum hosts a number of special exhibitions and events throughout the year, ranging from solo shows by emerging artists to large-scale installations. In addition to the exhibitions, the museum also has a number of educational programs and workshops for visitors. For more information, visit their website at https://www.mcnicholsbuilding.com/museums/denver-museum-of-contemporary-art.
Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms
The Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms is a beautiful outdoor space located in the nearby suburb of Littleton. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of walking trails and nature areas to explore. The gardens also host a number of special events and programs throughout the year, including workshops, classes, and festivals. For more information, visit their website at https://www.botanicgardens.org/gardens/denver-botanic-gardens-at-chatfield-farms.
Visit the Denver Aquarium
The Denver Aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The aquarium also has a number of interactive exhibits, including a touch tank where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals. In addition to the aquarium, the facility also has a number of special events and programs, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.
Take a stroll through Washington Park
Washington Park is a beautiful green space located in the heart of Denver, with a large lake, walking trails, and a number of sports courts and fields. The park is a popular spot for picnics, Frisbee, and other outdoor activities, and it's also home to a number of special events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the park's highlights include the Boathouse, the Rose Garden, and the Washington Park Grille. For more information, visit https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denver-parks-and-recreation/parks/parks-and-facilities/washington-park.html.
Go on a food tour
Denver is home to a thriving culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants and food options to choose from. There are a number of food tours available that will take you to some of the city's best restaurants and allow you to sample a variety of dishes. From artisanal cheeses and craft beer to locally-sourced produce and gourmet chocolates, there's something for every foodie in Denver. Some popular food tours in the city include the Denver Food and Cultural Tour, the Denver Craft Brews and Bites Tour, and the Denver Foodie Tour. For more information, visit https://www.colorado.com/articles/food-tours-denver.
Denver is a city with something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers to foodies and culture buffs. Whether you want to explore the Rocky Mountains, visit museums and galleries, or sample the city's culinary delights, you'll find plenty of fun things to do in Denver. With a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife, Denver is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
I hope these suggestions help you plan your trip to Denver and have a fun and enjoyable time!
