denver colorado holiday travel

12 Fantastically Festive Things To Do In Denver This Holiday Season

From whimsical candlelit ballets to a grand ball that takes you to Regency Era England and dazzling holiday light shows, these activities will guarantee you a festive holiday season.

The holiday season is one of our favorite times of the year. It’s the time where the city lights up in a completely new way, with festive lights dazzling the streets and trees being set up in public plazas. Creative, holiday-themed events hit the city, and it feels like everyone’s in a bit of better spirits. To keep you in the most festive of spirits this holiday season, we rounded up 12 can’t miss, joyous, and fantastically festive things to do in and around Denver this holiday season. Enjoy, and happy holidays!

1. Experience a magical and festive candlelight concert

Picture this: stepping out from a crisp winter evening into a beautiful venue surrounded with flickering candles. Once you take your seat and the performance begins, the venue comes alive with the classical sounds of some of the world’s finest classic composers and contemporary hits played by a talented string quartet. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the globally recognized Candlelight series. This year, the wildly popular series is even hosting a couple of holiday specials, like a ballet special and a performance dedicated to the greatest contemporary hits by Adele.

2. Experience the magic of Shondaland’s Bridgerton  at this immersive, grand ball

The Queen’s Ball is one of the most divine experiences happening now in Denver and the ballroom doors to this extravagant party has already opened its doors. This epic dance party replicating Netflix’s hit show  Bridgerton will have interactive sets, themed libations, and a chance to be crowned the Diamond of the Evening. Make haste and get your tickets today, esteemed Denverites, since the holiday party of the season is only available for a limited time.

3. Hit the ice at one of these awesome ice skating rinks

Downtown Denver is partnering up with Southwest Airlines to bring back the holiday ice skating rink to Skyline Park. Bundle up, don your skates, and enjoy a jolly good time hitting the ice as you’re surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights and ornaments. The rink opens on November 24th at 4pm and is sticking around until February 20th !

4. Go on a wintry road trip to one of these snowy cities

Prepare for snowy season this year by hitting the road and heading to a charming, snowy mountain village. Places like Vail, Aspen, Crested Butte, and Telluride are all waiting for you and your family to hit their slopes, check out their downtowns, and enjoy a beautiful, cozy stay.

5. Take in the beauty of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in your own backyard

For a limited time, you can now explore the stunning details of Michelangelo’s iconic masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel, up close and personal at Cherry Creek Mall in Denver! Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition showcases the awe and wonder of arguably one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements while allowing its visitors to experience this art from an up-close, life-sized, and never-before-seen perspective, so get your tickets before you miss your chance to see it this holiday season.

6. Be dazzled by one of Denver’s Christmas light shows

Some of Denver’s biggest spaces and venues are lighting up for the holidays in spectacular, immersive art installations. Enter these winter wonderlands, be dazzled by millions of twinkling lights, and enjoy the Christmas spirit in style. Some you may have experienced before, some are brand new, and some are bigger and better than ever.

• Denver Zoo Lights
• Denver Botanic Gardens – Blossoms Of Light
• Elitch Gardens – Luminova Holiday

7. Take a ride on the Polar Express

The Polar Express is returning to the Colorado Railroad Museum for another year. From mid-November to December 23rd , take a magical journey, starting out at the Polar Express Pavilion. Sit around the table as a holiday performance of the iconic Polar Express story takes place as you get to nibble on tasty treats. Once the performance is over, head outside to see the arrival of the Polar Express train pull into the station where you’ll climb aboard and meet Santa. Tickets range in price, starting at $80 a person, so check out their website for all the information.

8. Sip Glühwein and shop local at a holiday market

Experience a German holiday market right in your own backyard at Denver’s Christkindlmarket where you can stroll down lanes of enchanted merchants selling artisanal wares and tasty holiday goodies from local and international businesses alike. Or, head over to Cherry Creek for their annual holiday market where they’ve got dazzling light decorations and a rotating list of over 80+ small vendors.

9. Watch a holiday musical or theater performance

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is back this year with an amazingly festival line up! Here’s a few of our favorites below:

• Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer: The Musical (Dec 16-18)
• A Christmas Carol (Nov 16-Dec 24)
• My Fair Lady (Nov 15-27)

10. Enjoy a wild, colorful, and quirky Christmas activity

Get ready for the most over-the-top Camp Christmas since 2019. For 2022, Camp Christmas will be taking place at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park to ensure an amazing venue for this festive’s holiday season. At Camp Christmas you can

• Enjoy a season’s greetings with Santa himself at a safe photo opp
• Drink seasonally-themed cocktails
• Enjoy photo-worthy, immersive light displays

11. Head to Larimer Square for all your holiday needs

Larimer Square has got a whole lot of activities to do this holiday season so if you’re nearby, you can start the festivities off on December 2nd with Lights on Larimer from 6pm-8pm. Watch the tree lighting ceremony and local merchants and enjoy. On December 3rd and December 17th from 12-4pm, Santa will be here in the Square for visits. The He(art) of the Market arrives to Larimer on December 10th from 12-noon with local vendors, holiday goodies, and more. Finally, there’s the Songs & Sights Holiday Experience on December 20th and 23rd from 6-8pm with live music and a beautiful projection mapping across Larimer Square.

12. Enjoy this free tree installation at Denver’s Civic Center

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20 of the Best 2023 Denver Holiday Activities

Wondering what are the best Denver holiday activities in 2023 to fill your December with Rocky Mountain Christmas cheer? Denver, Colorado is one of those winter destinations it’s easy to adore, especially if you love holiday and Christmas activities! We’ve rounded up the best Denver holiday activities in this guide!

There are dozens of holiday activities this year right in downtown Denver or within a 2 hours drive around the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Whether it’s a charming light-strung holiday market or a snowy scenic train ride through the Rocky Mountains, there is a memorable magical holiday adventure for everyone in and around Denver!

Tim and I spent several Decembers in Denver before we moved to Colorado permanently. Was it the Christmas spirit of all the festive holiday activities in Denver that helped us find our dream home? Well, I might be starting to sound like a Hallmark movie, but you’re sure to feel holiday cheer in Denver each December!

Read more below for the best holiday and Christmas activities in and around Denver, Colorado for 2023!

Table of Contents

Denver Holiday Activities

Where to see holiday lights, christmas in color.

2023 Dates: Now through December 30, 2023

Christmas in Color is our top recommendation to everyone spending Christmastime in Colorado. We went in 2022 and saw polar bears, trippy tunnels, and Santa and friends dancing in synchronization to feel-good music. It was delightful in that way that makes you feel like a kid again.

Note that these photos are all from the 2022 displays. 2023 will have different features, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll want to go again!

There are a few reasons why we think Christmas in Color is the number one Denver holiday activity for seeing lights.

First, it’s a drive-thru light show, meaning you experience the entire show from within your own vehicle. Everyone can enjoy the lights, regardless of any mobility limitations. It also means you stay warm and comfy the whole time. All you do is set your car radio to a prescribed station to hear the music in sync with the light animations!

Want more of an open-air experience? While you cannot get out of your vehicle during the show for your safety, here’s a fun idea. We saw a family with a bunch of kids who set up the bed of the truck with loads of blankets. All the kids were bundled up with their hot cocoas enjoying the open-air light spectacular. If you have a truck and can bundle up warmly, this is a great way to immerse in the lights!

Secondly, there are three locations throughout the Denver area (Federal Heights, Aurora, and Morrison), so you can go to the one that is closest to you. We live closest to the Morrison location at the Bandimere Speedway so that’s the one we went to.

Lastly, proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes for chronically and terminally ill children. It’s a wonderful, life-changing cause that brings joy to kids and their families when they need it most.

Christmas in Color is a festival of lights, music, and giving. If that’s not what the Christmas spirit is all about, I don’t know what is!

Christmas in Color has locations in Federal Heights, Aurora, and Morrison, Colorado. Tickets start at $35 per vehicle and are available by reservation online in advance at https://christmasincolor.net/ .

Denver Holiday Lights & Sights Tour 

2023 Dates: Now through December 31, 2023

Denver Free Walking Tours hosts this Denver Holiday Lights and Sights Tours , which visits all the best holiday-themed spots in downtown Denver to see Christmas lights. The two-hour walking tour visits the Denver Christkindlemarket, 16th Street Mall, the Parade of Lights holiday floats, the Mile High Christmas Tree, and more before ending at the festively decorated Union Station. This is a great way to see many Denver holiday highlights in a short amount of time! Plus, the guides are very knowledgeable about all of the sights and about Denver’s history in general, so you are sure to learn a lot while enjoying the holiday magic!

Tours start at Denver’s City & County Building (i.e. City Council Building), 1437 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80202. Tickets are $27 per person. Reserve your spot online in advance at https://www.denverfreewalkingtours.com/holidaylightstour .

Mile High Tree

2023 Dates: November 17 through December 31, 2023

The tallest digital tree in the United States , the Mile High Tree stands 7 stories, about 100 feet, tall, and is illuminated with a dazzling digital light show synced to festive and diverse songs. The music and lights show starts every 15 minutes from 5 pm to 10 pm nightly from mid-November through the end of December. The tree is located in Civic Center Park and is completely free!

While at the Mile High Tree, why not stroll through the Christkindlmarket German Christmas Market ? It’s also in Civic Center Park!

Civic Center Park, 100 W 14th Ave, Denver, CO 80204 . Light show nightly mid-November and December. Free and open to the public without reservations or tickets.

Luminova Holidays at Elitch Gardens

Elitch Gardens amusement park has been a Colorado destination for over a century! In December the theme park transforms into a winter wonderland of over 4 million lights called Luminova Holidays . In addition to rides on limited attractions, there are interactive holiday features like light swings, a candy cane tunnel, and Luminova Glow Train Rides!

Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, 2000 Elitch Circle Denver, CO 80204. Tickets start at $34.99 and should be purchased online in advance to guarantee availability. https://www.elitchgardens.com/

Camp Christmas

2023 Dates: November 16 through December 24, 2023

Camp Christmas is a playful winter wonderland of lights at Stanley Marketplace (in 2022 it was at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park).

We love Camp Christmas because it is kitschy, creative, and diverse in its attractions. You can ride on a carousel, watch as masterful gingerbread house architects create works of art, sip hot chocolate (spiked optional), and tour through houses staged in various festive themes.

It feels like a holiday-themed modern art museum. Kids will love seeing Santa and playing in the life-sized exhibits, while adults will enjoy the elevated artistic creativity and quirkiness.

Tickets start at $24 per person and should be purchased online in advance at https://www.denvercenter.org/tickets-events/camp-christmas/

Denver-Area Botanic Gardens Holiday Displays

There are several options for those who want to see local botanic gardens all lit up for the holidays!

Blossoms of Light

2023 Dates: November 17, 2023 through January 7, 2024

By far, the most popular (and hardest to get tickets for!) is the Denver Botanic Gardens Blossoms of Light at York Street. A classic Denver holiday activity for over 30 years, Blossoms of Light is considered by Fodor’s one of the best holiday light displays in the world. Don’t miss the mesmerizing 100-foot-long light tunnel, magical glowing orbs, tasty holiday sweets, hot chocolate, and more. Most visitors spend between 1 hour and 1.5 hours exploring this winter wonderland.

York Street Location, 1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206. Tickets start at $24 for adults and $20 for kids, with children 2 and under admitted free. Tickets are available online WELL in advance at https://www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/blossoms-light .

Trail of Lights

2023 Dates: November 24, 2023 through January 1, 2024

Denver Botanic Gardens also hosts a Trail of Lights exhibition at Chatfield Farms , south of Denver amidst the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. A meandering walking trail, just under a mile long, weaves its way through cottonwoods, box elders, and pine trees to the 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead. There is also a shorter trail available for those who don’t want to walk as far. Like the Denver Botanic Gardens, Santa also makes an appearance at Chatfield Farms on select evenings and hours.

Chatfield Farms Location, 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Road, Littleton, CO 80128. Tickets start at $16 for Adults and $12 for Kids. Children 2 and under are free. Tickets are available online in advance at https://www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/trail-lights.

A Hudson Christmas

2023 Dates: November 24 through December 31, 2023; Light Up The New Year January 2 through 28, 2024

Lastly, the Hudson Gardens and Event Center also hosts a holiday light experience called A Hudson Christmas . Although the Hudson Gardens is somewhat small, this is a fun garden lights experience with fewer crowds relative to Denver Botanic Gardens. It is also therefore easier to get tickets, although Hudson Gardens also sells out on popular dates. This is the botanic garden we visited. It’s definitely nice, but we spent maybe a half hour there because it is so small. There is hot chocolate available for purchase and scheduled Santa visits as well.

Hudson Gardens and Event Center, 6115 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton, CO 80120 . Tickets start at $15 for Adults and $12 for Kids. Children 3 and under are free. Tickets are available online in advance at https://www.hudsongardens.org/ .

Regardless of which garden holiday light event you choose, we definitely recommend reserving your tickets online in advance. In general, the earlier in December you go, the better your chances of snagging tickets for your preferred date and time. Everyone rushes to these types of winter activities in the week leading up to Christmas when all the tickets are likely already sold out.

Denver Christmas and Winter Markets

Christkindlmarket.

2023 Dates: November 17 through December 23, 2023

The Christkindlemarket authentic German Christmas market has been a Denver holiday activity staple for over 20 years, transforming Civic Center Park into Old World Europe. Wooden stalls sell traditional Christmas tree ornaments and holiday decor, food vendors serve up cozy Eastern European fare and Glühwein, and a festive beer hall has music and dancing.

While you’re at the market, don’t miss the Mile High Christmas Tree, which is also located in Civic Center Park!

Civic Center Park, 100 W 14th Ave, Denver, CO 80204 . Free and open daily from mid-November until December 23.

Dairy Block Holiday Market – Mistletoe Market

2023 Dates: Weekends November 25 through December 17, 2023

A small but charming outdoor market in the alley of Denver’s Dairy Block , the Mistletoe Market has live music performances, festive decor, and stalls of unique gifts and holiday fare. Local businesses lining the alley serve up holiday drinks and food specials. Grab lunch and a beverage before or after your stroll through the market to make an afternoon of it!

Dairy Block, 1800 Wazee Street, Denver, Colorado. Free and open to the public on specific days starting after Thanksgiving and running through mid-December.

Holiday Art Market

2023 Dates: December 1 through December 29, 2023

Held for nearly 50 years at the Foothills Art Center, the Holiday Art Market features 3,000 unique items made by Colorado artists available for purchase. The market hosts an array of artisan crafts, including pottery, jewelry, food, holiday ornaments, greeting cards, and more. The market also stays open for a few days after Christmas, making it one of the few in Denver to do so!

Foothills Art Center, 809 15th Street , Golden, Colorado, 80401. Free and open to the public daily from mid-November to the end of December, except on holidays.

Union Station. 1701 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Colorado. Free and open to the public daily.

Active Denver Holiday Activities

Free ice skating at downtown denver ice rink.

2023 Dates: November 20, 2023, through February 11, 2024

The Downtown Denver Ice Rink has free ice skating starting at the end of November each year. It’s a true Denver holiday activity icon. Over 40,000 people skated here in the 2021-2022 winter season! Skating is completely free, but if you need a pair of skates, you can rent a pair for $11 for adults or $9 for kids 12 and under. If you bring your own pair of ice skates, you are good to skate for absolutely free! Lockers are also available to hold your belongings. If skating isn’t your thing, you can still people-watch and enjoy watching the skaters zip around the ice rink while grabbing a drink or bite to eat at one of the on-site concessions.

Skyline at 1601 Arapahoe St., Denver, CO 80202. Free and open to the public daily. Skate Rentals are available.

Denver Holiday Food and Drink Experiences

Holiday tea at babe’s tea room.

Babe’s Tearoom feels like being in London, decorated with over-the-top floral arrangements and sophisticated, colorful pillows. While you could come in for just a cup of tea, we recommend indulging in the Holiday Afternoon Tea for two people. It’s a perfect date activity. You can choose “bottomless” teas, including their holiday blends, in addition to enjoying a tower of finger sandwiches and cookies. We especially loved the decadent macarons and gingerbread tea. This is a really fun experience and a must-do Denver holiday activity in our opinion! It’ll definitely be a tradition we enjoy from now on!

Reservations are recommended. Even with ours, they were a few minutes delayed in seating us. Babe’s stays quite busy!

Babe’s Tea Room. 2401 15th St, Denver, CO 80202. Make reservations online at https://babestearoom.com/ .

Union Station Holiday Decorations

2023 Dates: November 28 through December 26, 2023

Union Station , in the heart of downtown Denver near the 16th Street Mall, feels like where you might catch a train to Hogwarts, but is actually a real, operating Amtrack train station dating from 1914! The historic building gets dressed up in lights and festive sculptures every December. Inside, a beautiful Christmas tree gives the entire space a beautiful atmosphere. Several restaurants and bars inside Union Station have holiday specials, so take advantage of the festive vibes and people-watching with a bite or drink!

Denver Holiday Performances

The nutcracker presented by the colorado ballet.

2023 Dates: November 26 through December 24, 2023

Another Denver holiday tradition, The Colorado Ballet ‘s annual performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker runs from the end of November through Christmas Eve. You’ll definitely want to buy your tickets in advance of this one, as there are limited performances throughout the holiday season!

Ellie Caulkins Opera House. 1101 13th St, Denver, CO 80204. Performances are Thursdays through Sundays starting in November. Buy your tickets online in advance at https://coloradoballet.org/The-Nutcracker

A Christmas Carol at Denver Center for Performing Arts

2023 Dates: November 17 through December 24, 2023

Another traditional Denver holiday activity is seeing A Christmas Carol at the Denver Center for Performing Arts . The opulent musical adaption of Charles Dickens’s classic novel is a longstanding tradition in Denver for many years. Shows run mid-November through Christmas Eve.

Wolf Theatre. Speer Blvd &, Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80204. Buy your tickets online in advance at https://www.denvercenter.org/.

Holiday Activities Near Denver

Two below zero horse-drawn sleigh ride.

In Frisco, Colorado, you can hop on a horse-drawn sleigh for a 1-hour round-trip ride through the White River National Forest . When we did the hot chocolate sleigh ride in November 2022, there was not yet enough snow on the ground to use the sleighs themselves, so ours was more of a carriage ride. We met at the Frisco Nordic Center to check in with the Two Below Zero team and socialize with the horses before boarding our carriages. They had plush, warm blankets on the wooden seat which is amazing since it can be very cold in Summit County in winter.

After about a half hour, we stopped at a little base camp in the forest where the staff served us hot chocolate with optional peppermint schnapps and cookies. On a small stage surrounded by seating and fire pits, a man sang and played the guitar. A replica Santa sleigh sits picture-perfect with a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains inviting you to take a few photos! Soon, we were back on the sleigh returning to the Nordic Center.

In addition to the hot chocolate sleigh ride, they also offer dinner sleigh rides. You should book your reservation online in advance for either experience. Tours run from mid-November through April.

Frisco Nordic Center. 18454 CO-9, Frisco, CO 80443. Book online in advance at https://dinnersleighrides.com/.

Mountain Town Holiday Parades

Every year, front-range towns like Golden, Idaho Springs, Nederland, Evergreen, and more hold Christmas parades through their downtown areas. Nestled in the mountains, each of these small towns has its own “Main Street, USA” that makes you feel like you’re walking through a bygone Western era. Dates vary every year for each town’s parade, but most are in late November or early December.

2023 Holiday Parades and Festivals:

• Evergreen Holiday Walk: December 1
• Olde Golden Candlelight Walk: December 1
• Nederland Holiday Mountain Market: December 2-3
• Georgetown Christmas Market: December 2-3
• Olde Golden Holiday Parade: December 9
• Jingle on the Avenue: December 16

Georgetown Loop Railroad

2023 Dates: November 10, 2023 through January 7, 2024

Georgetown, Colorado is home to one of the most iconic scenic train rides in the mountain west. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is beautiful year-round, and every winter they hold special holiday and Christmas rides starting in November. During the daytime, Santa’s Rocky Mountain Adventure is a train ride where Santa visits riders while the train rolls through the forest and over the railroad’s iconic 95-foot tall High Bridge. At night, 300,000 lights transform the forest for the Encore Train Lighted Forest rides. Santa will also be on these rides, so the main difference is whether you want to experience a nighttime holiday lights train ride or a snowy aesthetic daytime one! If you can’t decide you can always do both.

Also, don’t worry about being cold on the train. Unlike the open-air cars they use during the summer rides, the winter train rides are enclosed, cozy, and warm!

Be sure to book your train ride online in advance, as they almost always sell out. Tickets start at $35.

Georgetown Loop Railroad Devil’s Gate Depot: 646 Loop Dr. Georgetown, CO 80444. Book tickets online in advance at https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/.

Colorado Railroad Museum – the Polar Express Train Ride

2023 Dates: November 29 through December 23, 2023

Every year, the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden hosts The Polar Express train ride, a magical Christmas holiday activity near Denver. The exact storyline of the show varies each year, but in general, the experience includes a multi-part interactive and theatrical show that ends with a train ride to the North Pole. Tickets for the Polar Express go on sale in October and sell out for the entire season fairly quickly. If you want to put the Colorado Railroad Museum’s Polar Express Train Ride on your Denver holiday activity bucket list, you should definitely plan ahead!

Colorado Railroad Museum. 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, Colorado 80403. Book online in advance at https://coloradorailroadmuseum.org/polar-express/.

Final Thoughts on the Best Denver Holiday Activities

We hope this post on the best Denver holiday activities and Christmas happenings have you feeling festive! There is so much to see and do around Denver at Christmas time, making it a perfect winter wonderland destination for out-of-towners and Coloradans alike.

By the way, while you’re in the Denver area, don’t miss the opportunity to get outside and explore Rocky Mountain National Park just under 2 hours from Denver! Even in winter, it’s a beautiful park (just make sure you pack for the weather!) for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and more. Emerald Lake and Loch Vale are especially beautiful frozen. We hope you’ll check it out!

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This Colorado City Sits One Mile Above Sea Level — and It's a Gateway to the Rocky Mountains

Consider this the only guide to Denver you need.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Denver is known as the Mile High City — not because marijuana is legal here, but because its elevation is 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level.

Denver is Colorado's state capital and the most populous city in the state. Dotted with luxurious hotels , world-class museums, gorgeous public murals, and city parks, it's also a gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Denver is home to the second-largest performing arts center in the U.S., after Lincoln Center in New York, and is frequently cited as a top city for singles.

Sports fans can watch the Denver Broncos play football, the Colorado Rockies play baseball, or the Denver Nuggets play basketball. Prefer hockey or soccer? Check out the Colorado Avalanche or Denver Outlaws. Looking to get some exercise? Take a hike in the Rocky Mountains or hit the nearby ski slopes.

Denver is also a beer town that's home to several craft brewers as well as Coors, the world’s largest single-site brewery, which operates just outside the city in the town of Golden. Denver even hosts the Great American Beer Festival each year. Marijuana is legal in Colorado, and Denver is home to several recreational marijuana dispensaries.

Mountain Standard Time

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Denver depends on what you want to do. In May, Denver celebrates Cinco de Mayo and hosts the Denver Arts Festival and Colfax Marathon. During the summer, Denver hosts PrideFest and the Five Points Jazz Festival in June and a county fair in July. Autumn is the best time for foodies to visit Denver because it's when the city puts on A Taste of Colorado and the Great American Beer Festival. Meanwhile, winter is a popular time for skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes nearby. The Denver Botanic Gardens holds its holiday light show from November through January, and Denver's National Western Stock Show happens each year in January.

Related : 15 Best Places to Travel in March

Things to Know

Denver is located near the Rocky Mountains, not in the Rocky Mountains. About 200 named mountain peaks are visible from Denver.

Alcoholic drinks have a greater effect when you're drinking at a mile above sea level, so be sure to hydrate and pace yourself.

Marijuana is legal in Colorado for adults 21 and older. Adults can possess up to one ounce of retail marijuana. Cannabis is sold through recreational and medical marijuana dispensaries. If you don't have a prescription, head to a recreational dispensary. Just make sure to find a private place to smoke, as marijuana consumption in public is still illegal. It's also illegal to take marijuana across state lines.

How to Get Around

Trains: Denver has 12 light and commuter rail lines covering 113 miles and serving more than 50 stations. Most notably, there’s a train that runs from the airport to Union Station downtown. Parking in downtown can be expensive, making rail the more affordable choice.

Buses: The Denver area has 170 bus routes, with more than 9,000 local stops in eight counties. Local buses are an especially good way to travel around the city center and suburbs. An express bus runs between Denver and Boulder.

Taxis: Taxis are available through companies like Denver Yellow Cab. Expect to pay about $55 for cab service between downtown Denver and the airport.

Ride-share: Lyft, Uber, and Migo are ride-sharing options available in Denver.

Best Hotels

The ramble hotel.

Address: 1280 25th St., Denver, CO 80205 Phone: (720) 996-6300 Book Now

With just 50 rooms, this boutique hotel is nestled into Denver's River North Art District, a neighborhood where old warehouses and factories give way to jazz bars, restaurants, breweries, and art galleries. If you're a light sleeper, this may be the place for you, as the property is designed to minimize outside noise.

The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton

Address: 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 572-8000 Book Now

This pet-friendly downtown hotel is a short walk from the Denver Art Museum and Colorado Convention Center. In fact, it counts more than a half-dozen museums within a 10-minute walk. There's an extensive art collection on display throughout the property, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and some rooms with mountain views.

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection

Address: 321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 297-3111 Book Now

This boutique hotel is an icon of downtown Denver. It was built as a luxury hotel in 1892 and is now operated by Marriott. The lobby is likely to transport you to a different era. The hotel has an eight-story atrium with a stained-glass skylight and six stories of interior balconies. It also has its very own rooftop beehive and an on-site flower shop.

Patterson Inn

Address: 420 E. 11th Ave., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 955-5142 Book Now

The Patterson Inn is a National Landmark housed inside a reddish-orange sandstone building dating to 1891. The hotel offers several themed bedrooms and common areas filled with books, games, and hand-carved wood. It's the kind of mansion that's sure to feel like home from the moment you walk in. The property offers free parking, but doesn't allow pets.

Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn

Address: 1207 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 839-5221 Book Now

The Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is a National Historic Landmark in Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood. The ruby sandstone mansion is just a block from the Molly Brown House Museum and a short walk from several of the city's top attractions. The property has been an inn since 1994 and offers eight guest rooms, each named after a local wildflower. Three rooms come with whirlpool tubs.

The Crawford Hotel

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (720) 460-3700 Book Now

This hotel is perfect for anyone who loves rail travel. It sits atop Denver's Union Station and offers a direct train link to Denver International Airport. If you prefer to catch a ride to the day’s adventure, you can request a ride in one of the hotel’s Teslas. The Crawford Hotel's Pullman guest rooms are designed to recreate the romance of train travel by making you feel like you have a luxe rail car all to yourself.

The Curtis, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Address: 1405 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 571-0300 Book Now

The Curtis is a quirky downtown hotel that sits across the street from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and just a couple of blocks from the 16th Street Mall. The hotel regularly plays cartoons in its retro-chic lobby, operates a store filled with nostalgic treats, and houses The Corner Office Restaurant + Martini Bar. Some rooms have themes inspired by Marge Simpson, Barbies, vintage arcade games, and more.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver

Address: 1717 Champa St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 296-1717 Book Now

This property is pet-friendly and has a lobby that feels like a living room. Its rooms are designed to deliver an artsy vibe with a touch of luxury. The property has a great Italian restaurant, Panzano, and a nightly wine social hour.

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

Address: 1881 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 312-3800 Book Now

The Ritz-Carlton is home to some of Denver's most spacious hotel rooms, several with Rocky Mountain views. The property is located near Capitol Hill and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Rooms include featherbeds, down comforters, and rain forest shower heads. It also features a 2,229-square-foot fitness center that's always open, an expansive spa, and a restaurant whose offerings include private dining.

Best Restaurants

Address: 1600 W. 33rd Ave., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (303) 993-4200 Website

This restaurant is known for its creative menu, brightly colored cocktails, gas station architecture, and quirky decorative items. Root Down serves brunch and dinner with menus that include ricotta gnocchi, 36-hour short ribs, and a dessert you'll never forget — a sweet corn ice cream sandwich. Popular cocktails include the Beet Down and Don Draper.

Address: 2930 Umatilla, Fifth Floor, Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (303) 524-9193 Website

From the team behind Root Down, this restaurant is a penthouse playground with an expansive patio. Its pan-Mediterranean menu includes a selection of tapas you can sample while taking in epic views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountains. Menu items include smoked burrata, harissa eggplant fries, Moroccan lamb sausage, and chocolate baklava.

Address: 2227 W 32nd Ave., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (720) 668-8506 Website

This Italian restaurant comes from Top Chef contestant Carrie Baird, who has since handed the restaurant off to chef Russell Stippich. Its menu offers an elevated take on traditional Italian cuisine, and includes pizzas, pastas, and pork milanese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts are also available.

Denver Biscuit Company

Address: Multiple Locations Website

One of the best brunch spots in the city, the Denver Biscuit Company is the place to go for Southern-style comfort food. The menu here includes several biscuit breakfast sandwiches, biscuit French toast, and, of course, biscuits and gravy. Denver Biscuit Company has also developed its own twist on poutine called Sully's Fries — waffle fries with gravy, pimento cheese, bacon, and green onions. Don't oversleep — the restaurants close at 2 p.m.

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St. #125, Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 534-1970 Website

This Spanish restaurant comes from a team with a track record of opening award-winning restaurants in Denver. That team includes James Beard-recognized chef Jennifer Jasinski. Ultreia is located inside Denver's Union Station and serves tapas inspired by Spain and Portugal. Menu items include bacon-wrapped dates, patatas bravas, and spiced octopus.

Address: 1889 16th St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (720) 605-1889 Website

From the James Beard Award-winning team behind the Frasca Hospitality Group, Tavernetta aims to bring la dolce vita to Denver with fresh handmade pastas and an epic wine list. The restaurant has private heated outdoor seating where it serves a tasting menu. Its regular menu includes Italian staples like pasta al forno and burrata. Tavernatta also makes a tagliatelle with Maine lobster.

The Wolf's Tailor

Address: 4058 Tejon St., Denver, CO 80211 Phone: (720) 456-6705 Website

The Wolf's Tailor is meant to bring together elements of local chef Kelly Whitaker's travels through Europe and Asia. Its multicourse tasting menu, which evolves with the seasons, is a treat.

Things to Do

Rocky mountains.

Denver is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, which stretch from western Canada to New Mexico. Seventy-eight of its 100 highest peaks are located in Colorado, where Rocky Mountain National Park covers 415 square miles and offers more than 300 miles of hiking trails. Echo Mountain, Winter Park, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Vail are ski towns within a couple of hours of Denver by car.

Cannabis Dispensaries

Address: Multiple Locations

Colorado was the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana, and Denver is now dotted with hundreds of cannabis dispensaries. Lucy Sky and The Herbal Cure are a couple of popular options. Euflora is welcoming to first-time visitors and has a location at the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver. It also sells flowers, concentrates, edibles, smoking supplies, and T-shirts.

Brewery Tour

Denver is a beer drinker's dream come true. The city is home to a number of craft breweries, as well as to the world's largest single-site brewery — the Coors Brewery in nearby Golden, Colorado. The Coors Brewery can brew up to 22 million barrels of beer each year and offers self-paced tours. Denver's first brewpub, the Wynkoop Brewing Company, offers tours in downtown Denver.

Denver Art Museum

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Address: 100 W 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (720) 865-5000 Website

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest in the American West. Its collections represent cultures from around the world and include more than 70,000 works of art. The museum sprawls across several buildings, including the Hamilton Building, inspired by the Rocky Mountains and covered in 9,000 titanium panels.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Address: 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206 Phone: (720) 865-3500 Website

An oasis in the heart of the city, the Denver Botanic Gardens is home to North America's largest collection of plants from cold temperate climates. And each winter, the location hosts one of the country's most gorgeous holiday light shows.

Colorado State Capitol

Address: 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 866-2604 Website

The interior of the Colorado State Capitol, which houses the state Senate, House of Representatives, and governor's office, can be experienced on the free guided tours that run throughout the week. Before you leave, get a photo with the building’s gleaming gold dome in the background — the dome was crafted using 200 ounces of gold that were gifted to the state by Colorado gold miners in 1908.

Molly Brown House Museum

Address: 1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 Phone: (303) 832-4092 Website

The Molly Brown House Museum is dedicated to telling the story of American socialite and philanthropist Molly Brown, better known as the Unsinkable Molly Brown. Brown and her husband bought the home that became the museum in 1894. Brown survived the sinking of the Titanic after helping several fellow passengers evacuate the ship. She later organized a survivors' committee to counsel those who lived through the sinking.

Forney Museum of Transportation

Address: 4303 Brighton Blvd., Denver, CO 80216 Phone: (303) 297-1113 Website

If you're fascinated with how to get from point A to point B, this museum is for you. The Forney Museum of Transportation has been open for more than 60 years and houses a collection that includes buggies, motorcycles, steam locomotives, aircraft, and more. Amelia Earhart's 1923 Kissel Gold Bug is among the hundreds of items in its collection.

16th Street Mall

Address: 1001 16th St., Denver, CO 80265 Website

This mile-long thoroughfare is designed for pedestrians and closed to regular automobile traffic. The promenade resembles the skin of a diamondback rattlesnake from above. On the ground, visitors will find dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops. Horse-drawn carriages and pedicabs are generally available after dark.

Larimer Square

Address: 1430 Larimer St., Denver, CO 80202 Website

This block of Victorian buildings is where the modern-day city of Denver got its start. Nowadays, it's home to shops, bars, restaurants, and clubs. It's a great place for people-watching on a pleasant night.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, CO 80465 Phone: (720) 865-2494 Website

This may be one of the most epic places in the world to see a concert or take an outdoor yoga class. Over the years, this venue has hosted artists like Bruce Springsteen and The Beatles against the backdrop of its gorgeous red rocks. Even when there isn't a show, it's a sight to see.

Best Shopping

Rockmount ranch wear.

Address: 1626 Wazee St., Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 629-7777 Website

If you're looking for Western wear, look no further than this family-owned business that's been outfitting Denver since 1946. This store pioneered Western shirts with snaps and has dressed celebrities like Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Robert Redford, Elvis Presley, and David Bowie.

Inspyre Boutique

This chain of boutiques has a mission: Surface incredible clothes, accessories, and gifts while keeping everything under $100. Inspyre Boutique now has four stores in the Denver area. No single item is priced over $100.

Art District on Santa Fe

Address: 525 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (720) 773-2373 Website

This creative art district is home to a number of galleries, boutiques, and vintage shops. Check out Creative Living to spruce up your outdoor space, Abstract Denver for fresh wall art, or Carol Mier Fashion for a new look.

This isn't the traditional enclosed shopping mall you may have in mind — the 16th Street Mall is an outdoor promenade lined with shops and restaurants. It's a great place to buy souvenirs to take back home.

This may have been the block where Denver was born, but these days, it's a haven for boutique shopping. You'll find everything from clothing and gifts to leather goods here.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

Address: 3000 E 1st Ave., Denver, CO 80206 Phone: (303) 388-3900 Website

This upscale shopping center not far from downtown Denver is where you'll find high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co. It's also home to Nordstrom, Macy's, Free People, and an Apple store.

Denver Premium Outlets

Address: 13801 Grant St., Thornton, CO 80023 Phone: (303) 200-3805 Website

This sprawling outlet is a half-hour's drive from Denver, and it includes a number of options to get your favorite brand names for a fraction of the price. Among them: Le Creuset, Ferragamo, Nike, Kate Spade, and Coach.

Neighborhoods to Know

Central Business District: This is a neighborhood that's mostly business, though it's also home to the 16th Street Mall, an outdoor promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and art. You'll also find the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Colorado Convention Center, and a sculpture known as the Big Blue Bear here.

Highlands: Highlands is a laid-back Denver neighborhood with a great selection of restaurants and bars. The neighborhood sits on a hillside overlooking the city and is sometimes called North Denver.

LoDo: LoDo is where downtown Denver parties. This part of the city is known for its nightlife, though it's also home to offices and apartment buildings. LoDo is where you'll find Union Station and Larimer Square — the block where the modern-day city of Denver got its start. It's on the edge of Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies.

Capitol Hill: This is Colorado's most densely populated neighborhood, and it includes the Colorado State Capitol building. Capitol Hill is home to the Molly Brown House Museum and situated just west of the Denver Botanic Gardens. It's an area that's brimming with bars, restaurants, and interesting locals.

Five Points: This neighborhood was once the center of Denver's jazz scene and still hosts an annual jazz festival. Nowadays, it's a hipster haven known for its restaurants, bars, and public art.

Denver summers are hot, while its winters tend to be cold and dry. The temperature rarely dips below 6°F or rises above 96°F. The warmest months are June through early September. The coldest are late November through early March. Expect snow between November and February.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January: 20°F to 49°F February: 21°F to 49°F March: 29°F to 58°F April: 35°F to 65°F May: 45°F to 73°F June: 55°F to 86°F July: 61°F to 92°F August: 59°F to 90°F September: 50°F to 82°F October: 37°F to 68°F November: 27°F to 57°F December: 19°F to 47°F

Apps to Download

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Holiday Events

The holidays in The Mile High City are nothing short of magical. Shop for handmade gifts while you sip hot beverages at arts and crafts bazaars like the annual Denver Christkindl Market. Ring in the season at concerts featuring both classic carols and modern holiday tunes. Thrill to the festive theater and dance performances like “A Christmas Carol,” Colorado Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” and Cleo Parker Robinson Dance’s “Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum.” Bundle up and stroll past millions of twinkling lights at Denver Botanic Gardens ’ Blossoms of Light, Chatfield Farms’ Trail of Lights, and Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo . Take the kids for a ride on The Polar Express at the Colorado Railroad Museum . And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to meet the man himself, Jolly Old Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa!

We strive to post the most current and accurate event information, but changes and cancellations do occur, so please check the official event website to confirm all details before attending.

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Denver and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $352; Family vacation $320; Romantic vacation $477; Luxury vacation $508; Budget vacation $252.

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Denver   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its outdoor offerings, its city life isn't one to pass up. Denver is home to numerous must-sees from museums and galleries to restaurants and breweries. Spend a few hours in Meow Wolf to experience an interactive and

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit in the fall for Glow at the Gardens, a Halloween festival complete with stunning (and spooky) light displays and epic pumpkin art. – Leilani Osmundson

The Denver Botanic Gardens' 24 acres feature a whopping 50 gardens for visitors to explore. This expansive facility in downtown Denver's Cheesman Park treats travelers to a variety of different environments, from a traditional Japanese garden (complete with bonsai trees) to the South African Plaza blooming with exotic plants like asparagus fern and torch lilies. Meanwhile, art aficionados will also appreciate the gardens thanks to the numerous sculptures that grace the grounds; the facility also plays host to touring exhibits that have included works by such artists as Stephen Talasnik and Dale Chihuly.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an essential experience in Denver. There's no such thing as a bad seat, either; in fact, the best views are in the back, where you can see stunning sunset views over the red rocks and city skyline. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

With its excellent views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of hiking trails and cinnamon-hued sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks Park is a big draw for outdoors enthusiasts. Occupying 700-some acres, this impressive park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating geographic transition between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. If you only have a short amount of time here, stretch your legs along the Trading Post Trail; this nearly 1 ½-mile-long path weaves through the rust-colored buttes, making for some spectacular scenery. Before you head out, travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center, which features information on the park’s history and trails.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Denver Museum of Nature & Science

With exhibits featuring everything from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science inspires learning in the young and young at heart. This impressive facility houses artifacts pertaining to a variety of scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology and space science. Some of the more popular displays include the wildlife exhibit, which includes more than 90 habitat scenes containing information on animals from around the world, from Alaska to Australia. Meanwhile, the hands-on Space Odyssey area introduces travelers to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond. 

Recent visitors said the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a great place for families. A few reviewers who were not traveling with children said the museum may not be as engaging for adults as it is for kids because of the elementary nature of the displays. Many recent travelers were particularly impressed with the gems and minerals exhibit, which features artifacts like an 8-pound nugget of crystallized gold discovered in Breckenridge in 1887.

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Denver's Union Station Denver's Union Station free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Have breakfast at Snooze (a local chain), but get there early – there's almost always a line because the food is that good. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Denver's Union Station serves a dual purpose: it's a working public transit station and a highly-praised dining and shopping center. The station was a huge success when it first opened to the public in 1881, providing railroad service until the center of the building caught fire in 1894. The architecture from the 1914 redevelopment remains, and today, it's home to an Amtrak hub and a bus concourse. Located in the hip Lower Downtown neighborhood (aka LoDo), the station also houses multiple dining options and boutiques, as well as  The Crawford Hotel .

Meow Wolf Denver Meow Wolf Denver

U.S. News Insider Tip: Plan to spend several hours (at least two) here if you're hoping to see everything, and remember as you explore that there is an underlying storyline that connects all the exhibits and includes a mystery for visitors to unravel. – Leilani Osmundson

If you’re a fan of immersive art installations, you’ll probably enjoy Meow Wolf Denver, which is best described as a contemporary art museum, a haunted house, an amusement park and a film set all rolled into one 90,000-square-foot space. There are several Meow Wolf locations around the U.S., including Las Vegas and Santa Fe, New Mexico . Denver’s iteration is spread across four stories and features more than 70 distinctive installations that feature colorful lights, sounds and interactive displays. The largest permanent installation is the Convergence Station, a “multiverse transit station.”

Denver Zoo Denver Zoo

Modeled after a Kenyan nature preserve, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including tigers, black rhinos, kangaroos and orangutans. Sprawling across 80 acres of City Park, this impressive facility boasts a number of ways to view our furry, feathered and reptilian friends. Head to Predator Ridge, the recreated African savanna, to see hyenas, lions and African dogs roam, watch monkeys swing from tree branches at Primate Panorama or catch a glimpse of colorful critters like Panamanian golden frogs and green tree pythons at the Tropical Discovery center. You can also overload on cute during a visit to the nursery and take on a ride on the zoo's train and carousel.

While you're here, many travelers highly recommend timing your visit around feeding times, during which staff offers educational lectures about the zoo's residents. Keep in mind that this is a large facility; you'll want to budget plenty of time to see all the animals.

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Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pay attention if you're in the flash flood simulation room – you might get wet! – Leilani Osmundson

Visit the AZA-accredited Downtown Aquarium to see more than 500 species of animals across a variety of ecosystems both underwater and on land (including tigers). In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also boasts a Stingray Reef touch tank, a 4D theater, scuba and snorkel experiences, a shark cage experience, and in-person and virtual animal encounters. Kids can participate in a plethora of activities from a fun overnight stay to a five-day summer camp. Day programs for children include "Marine Biologist for a Day," which includes encounters with exotic species from the deep sea, as well as "Zoologist for a Day," where kids can learn how to handle and train animals that live outside the ocean.

Denver Art Museum Denver Art Museum

With galleries showcasing more than 70,000 works by famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Winslow Homer, the Denver Art Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art between Chicago and the West Coast. Spread across two buildings, the museum's holdings range from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary displays with such mediums as painting  and sculpture represented. One of the highlights of a visit to the Denver Art Museum is its extensive assembly of western American art, which includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper related to the West going back two centuries.

Past visitors raved about the Denver Art Museum, praising its diverse and varied collections, especially its collection of western American art, and the museum's ability to appeal to kids through interactive activities. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that the museum is a popular stop on many of the best Denver tours .

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16th Street Mall 16th Street Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit Skyline Park (located at 15th and Arapahoe streets) in the summer for draft beers at Skyline Beer Garden and the winter for outdoor ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. – Leilani Osmundson

Walk along this mile-long pedestrian mall for restaurants, shops, entertainment and more. Described as "the spine that connects all of downtown," the mall starts with Union Station on the north end and the Colorado State Capitol on the south end, with attractions like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Larimer Square and the Denver Pavilions – a shopping and dining complex with multiple movie theaters and pop-up events – along the way. If you've worked up an appetite walking around, you won't go hungry: There are more than 40 outdoor cafes throughout the mall, as well as plenty of casual, upscale and international eateries.

Coors Field Coors Field

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a seat in row 20 – the only purple row in the stadium – and you'll be sitting exactly one mile above sea level! –  Leilani Osmundson

Named for Denver's famed beer, Coors Field in Denver's LoDo district is home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies. The stadium occupies a whopping 76 acres and has the capacity for more than 50,000 fans. Of course, the main reason to come to Coors Field is to catch a game, but there's more to this stadium than a diamond. Whether you're traveling with children or alone, be sure to spend some time at the Interactive Area, where you can test your skills in the video batting cages and the Speed Pitch area. And if you've left the kids at home, take the opportunity to sample some of Denver's local brews on the Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot platform with fantastic views of the field and downtown Denver. If the weather isn't cooperating, pay a visit to the on-site SandLot brewery instead.

Washington Park Washington Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's not the easiest to find parking in Denver, but don't worry -- Wash Park has plenty of street parking, and it's easy to find a spot even during events. –  Leilani Osmundson

Located south of central Denver, Washington Park is consistently praised by Denverites and visitors alike for its ample facilities and enjoyable atmosphere. Occupying 155 acres, this immense park boasts miles of jogging paths, two massive lakes and two formal gardens, one of which is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon gardens. Wash Park, as it’s called by locals, is a popular weekend hangout spot thanks to the variety of things to do here. You can spend your time simply relaxing on the grass, or you can take advantage of the park's 10 tennis courts, boat rentals and recreation center, which houses a pool and offers scheduled fitness classes and swim lessons.

Larimer Square Larimer Square free

In 1858, a group of settlers struck gold at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Their discovery soon spread back to the East Coast, prompting people to pick up and move west. The site of the original pioneer camp (known back then as Auraria) soon grew into the charming area now known as Larimer Square. Although the city has since expanded, this historic neighborhood remains the heart and soul of the Mile High City, and according to some, it's the place to start your Denver experience thanks to its variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It's also a featured stop on many of the best Denver tours . 

Before venturing to Larimer Square, you may want to pay a visit to the Larimer Square  website . Here, you'll find a listing of all the local businesses and upcoming events, not to mention maps that can help orient where specific dining, shopping and entertainment options are.

Empower Field at Mile High Empower Field at Mile High

Football fans won't want to pass up the chance to spend some time on the Denver Broncos' home turf. Empower Field at Mile High can hold more than 76,000 NFL fans and is notable for its elevation, which sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That, combined with the view of the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east, makes it a unique venue to visit.

If you can swing it, try to catch a home game. Ticket prices vary by game and availability, and you'll want to purchase your seats well in advance to ensure availability. If you can't make it to a game, you can tag along on a guided tour of the stadium. Led by employees from the on-site Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum (one of the stops on the tour), these 75- to 90-minute tours take participants to the visiting teams' locker rooms, the end zone as well as into the network television production compound and the TV and radio broadcast facilities. Recent visitors described the tour experience as incredible thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

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Molly Brown House Museum Molly Brown House Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Though you can explore the museum on your own, a guided tour is vastly more educational. Register for a late morning tour and then walk to The Corner Beet after for tasty juices and brunch options. – Leilani Osmundson

Nestled among the contemporary architecture of the Capitol Hill district is the Molly Brown House Museum, an eccentric example of Victorian life and design that no history buff should miss. Once the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown (Kathy Bates' character in the film, "Titanic,"), this museum offers a glimpse into Denver's history and the life of one of its most fascinating residents. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about Brown's experience aboard the Titanic, as well as her role in the women's suffrage movement and her endeavors in Colorado's mining industry.

Elitch Gardens Elitch Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the park in winter for its Luminova Holidays event and don't forget to bring your camera; there are plenty of beautiful holiday light displays for photo opportunities, and some rides are open as well. – Leilani Osmundson

Open first as actual gardens as well as a zoological park in 1890, the long-running Elitch Gardens now boasts a theme park, a water park, entertainment and more. At the theme park, fly 17 stories above Denver on the Star Flyer swing ride, or dive and spin at 50 mph speeds on the Mind Eraser coaster. If thrills aren't your thing, you'll find plenty of more relaxing rides and activities in both the theme and water park, such as the Commotion Ocean wave pool and Castaway Creek lazy river.

United States Mint United States Mint free

Even if you hate the sound of excess change rattling around your pockets, you'll find a tour of the Denver branch of the United States Mint to be an interesting way to spend an hour or so. Having opened in 1863, its purpose was to transform the Gold Rush's findings into coinage. Today, the U.S. Mint in Denver can produce up to 50 million coins a day.

A free guided tour of the U.S. Mint in Denver will allow you the opportunity to learn more about each stage of coin production, from the design and sculpting of each piece to the cutting of each type of coin. Some recent visitors marveled at the coin-making machines, but say that not all travelers will likely find it enthralling.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Housed in a hangar on the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, this museum has more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space that explores the history of the base's role in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War. A variety of iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts and military uniforms are on display. The collection includes bombers from World War II, reconnaissance aircraft and commercial planes. One of the most iconic symbols of the Vietnam War – the Bell UH-1M Iroquois “Huey” – is among the displays. 

Past visitors enjoyed seeing the variety of aircraft and especially the replicas of “Star Wars” spacecraft. About 20 miles south of the museum is its sister location, the Exploration of Flight, which offers visitors a more immersive experience. They include a pilot simulator and actual flights in vintage and modern aircraft. The 15-acre site is located at Centennial Field, about 20 miles south of downtown Denver.

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The Best Christmas Lights In Denver, Colorado

• Activities and Interests
• Christmas Markets
• Destinations
• Holiday Travel
• Seasonal Travel
• United States

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than to admire a dazzling display of holiday lights? The Mile High City pulls out all the stops when it comes to brightening up the chilly winter season with all sorts of outdoor light shows, hotel decorations, and brilliantly lit Christmas trees. 

Bundle up and take a gander at some of Denver’s coolest (pun intended) holiday light displays for some festive fun.

Blossoms Of Light At Denver Botanic Gardens

Blossoms of Light is an annual holiday light extravaganza that transforms the Denver Botanic Gardens into a shimmering wonderland with a 360-degree immersive light experience at its York Street location. Or consider Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms, also affiliated with the Denver Botanic Gardens , where you walk along a countryside path illuminated with trees. Tickets for each of these events must be purchased ahead of time; there are no on-site ticket sales. 

The Mile High Christmas Tree Presented By Xfinity

The Mile High Christmas Tree in front of Denver’s City & County Building is composed of 60,000 LED lights that twinkle in sync with holiday songs for a choreographed show. It’s a brilliantly lit, seven-story, 110-foot cone of colored lights that’s 10 feet taller than New York City’s Rockefeller Center tree.

The tree towers over downtown’s Civic Center Park and is situated near the annual Denver Christkindl Market — a miniature German village with live music, holiday shopping, and food vendors serving traditional European Christmas market specialties such as gingerbread biscuits, grilled sausages, and belly-warming gluhwein.

Hudson Holidays

Walk through a grove of dancing Christmas trees and a multi-colored forest of giant snowmen during Hudson Holidays at Hudson Gardens & Event Center in Littleton, just south of Denver proper. Santa is also on hand for free family photo ops. This is a fee-based ticketed event.

Luminova Holidays At Elitch Gardens

Head to downtown’s Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park to check out more than 4 million lights, walk through a 300-foot candy cane tunnel, and snap pictures of the 65-foot Christmas tree, 25-foot snowmen, and 16-foot wrapped gifts. Yes, the sights are all huge at Luminova Holidays ! Ticket entry includes the park’s thrill rides that are open seasonally.

Denver Zoo Lights

A beloved holiday tradition for more than 30 years, Denver Zoo Lights features more than 3 million lights that sparkle over 80 acres. See animated ice sculptures, live ice carving exhibitions, and of course, the animals that make their home at this popular zoo in Denver’s City Park. This is a timed, ticketed event. 

Camp Christmas

Dubbed the area’s “campiest, quirkiest holiday tradition,” Camp Christmas transforms Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace into a “360-degree kaleidoscope of yuletide cheer.” Head-scratching displays, “punny” trees, kitschy photo ops, visits with Santa, and creative cocktails are all on tap in this 15,000-square-foot venue. This is a ticketed activity.

Denver Neighborhood Holiday Lights

Lights shine bright in commercial neighborhoods throughout Denver. Just put on your walking shoes to stroll along sidewalks lined with lights, giant ornaments, and other festive decorations. 

Cherry Creek North

Part of the Winter Wanderland celebration in chic Cherry Creek North, Saturday Night Lights features more than 600 illuminated and musical trees, plus free hot cocoa and entertainment. Dance on a lighted floor while a DJ spins tunes, walk through a tunnel of lights, and pose in an Instagram-worthy photo booth.

Dairy Block

Don’t miss the holiday-themed “activated alleyway” in Denver’s LoDo. In this partially covered passageway on the Dairy Block , walk under strung lights and hanging baubles, then dip into Milk Market — a gourmet food hall — to fuel more strolling downtown.

Union Station

Denver’s venerable train station is stunning all year round, but especially so during the holidays. Festive designs are projected on the facade of the 19th-century building. A 40-foot-tall Christmas tree with 7,000 lights welcomes visitors to Union Station and the surrounding shops, restaurants, and hotels, including The Crawford Hotel , located inside the station.

Denver Hotel Holiday Lights

Here are a couple of hotels that are tricked out with over-the-top décor during Denver Christmas holidays:

The Brown Palace

The atrium lobby of The Brown Palace is full of festive cheer, with a 25-foot sparkly chandelier, more than 4,000 holiday ornaments, 250,000 crystal beads, and garlands and bows galore. Tickets go quickly for Holiday Tea; if there are still some available, be sure to snag them for delectable treats amid an ultra-festive backdrop.

Gaylord Rockies

Gaylord Rockies showcases dazzling lights outside as well as throughout the indoor public spaces of this sprawling resort. Don’t miss the giant Christmas tree in the multi-story lobby, and for chilly fun, buy tickets to “ ICE! Featuring A Christmas Story ,” with more than 2 million pounds of colored ice displays, including tunnels and slides.

More Holiday Lights Further Afield In Colorado

If your winter travels take you outside of Denver this festive season, check out these glittering displays in statewide cities:

Colorado Springs

The pretty lake at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs shimmers with all the white lights that twinkle throughout the resort property. Inside, the themed gingerbread display takes center stage, but the classic “Old World” elegance of the hotel’s public spaces, featuring tons of garland and dozens of Christmas trees, is equally jaw-dropping. Non-overnight guests are invited to visit the grounds on specific days throughout the season.

Glenwood Springs

More than 500,000 lights adorn the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs , where the exterior of the historic building and its courtyard are brilliantly lit with plenty of red and green every night through the holiday season. The property has been wowing visitors with festive events since 1893.

Winter Wonderlights is a captivating free light show with over 200,000 lights, live reindeer, ice sculpting, music, and dance performances in Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra in Loveland. For more entertainment in this northern Colorado city, check out holiday lighting along 4th Street downtown, part of Loveland’s Festival of Lights , as well as the Christmas Walk in the Woods .

Fort Collins

Old Town Fort Collins sparkles with millions of sustainable LED lights that remain activated nightly through Valentine’s Day. Buy your tickets for the Garden of Lights at The Gardens on Spring Creek — Fort Collins’s community botanic garden — for a holiday light stroll and evening entertainment including carolers and a dressed-up dog troupe.

In her editorial career spanning more than 30 years, Kara Williams has served as a magazine editor, newspaper reporter, corporate copy editor, and proofreader. Currently, as a freelance writer, Kara focuses on all things travel, from sublime spas and upscale hotels to RV camping and outdoor adventures. National parks, romantic escapes, and tropical destinations are other favorite travel topics she covers. Kara has won Lowell Thomas, SATW Western Chapter, and NATJA awards for her work. An empty nester, she makes her home in the Colorado mountains with her husband and writes about her travels at her blog, Life Here & There . Learn more about Kara on her portfolio website .

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Guide to denver holiday events, lights and christmas fun 2023.

MORE FUN IDEAS!  If you’re lucky, we’ll have a white Christmas so don’t miss our  Ultimate guide to outdoor skating  in Colorado and  30 places to go sledding in Colorado . And if you need some inspiration with your shopping, check out our  Colorado Holiday Gift Guide with 50+ ideas ,   Denver’s best holiday markets and the  7 Best Christmas tree farms in Denver .  

DRESS IT UP!  Do you want to light up your activities even more? Don’t waste your money at the events on glow sticks. This  6-pack holiday Christmas LED light-up bulb necklace  is the perfect accessory or get a laugh with these  5 piece Christmas hats and headbands  that include Santa Pants, an elf and more. 

Holiday Lights in Denver

Cherry creek north winter wanderland, giving machines & more.

WHEN: Nov. 16–Dec. 24, 2023 WHERE: Cherry Creek North A collection of free holiday offerings throughout the neighborhood, Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland festivities include a dazzling display of nearly one million twinkling lights on more than 600 trees spread throughout the walkable neighborhood. Picture this: Vending machines that don’t dispense snacks or drinks, but instead, they offer something even more nourishing to the soul – the chance to make a positive impact. This holiday season, as lights twinkle and carols fill the air, the Giving Machines invite you to #LightTheWorld in a truly meaningful way.   cherrycreeknorth.com

The Mile High Tree

WHEN: Nov. 17–Dec. 31, 2023 WHERE: Civic Center Park Join in the free festivities at this festive holiday attraction, the  Mile High Tree . It’s a brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation that provides a dazzling lights-and-music show.   denver.org

Blossoms of Light

WHEN: Nov. 17, 2023–Jan. 7, 2024 (Closed Nov. 23 and Dec. 25, 2023) WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens  is proud to host  Blossoms of Light,  an annual family-friendly event that has become a tradition for people across Colorado. Come interact with incredible light displays — a large field of sound-reactive, animated LED lights — and sip warm drinks and nibble on tasty treats as you stroll. Pre-purchased timed tickets and masks covering the face and nose are required.  botanicgardens.org

Christmas at Gaylord Rockies

WHEN: Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024 WHERE: Gaylord Rockies There’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by gathering your family for Christmas at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado. Step inside a holiday showplace like no other as you wind your way through the larger-than-life sculptures of ICE! featuring A Christmas Story™, zoom down thrilling frozen slides, and traverse awe-inspiring tunnels. Escape to Gaylord Rockies to enjoy the splendor of the holiday season. . christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com

WHEN: December 2, 2023–Jan. 7, 2024 WHERE: Denver Zoo

2023 Annual Light the Lights

WHEN: Nov. 23, 2023–Jan. 22, 2024; 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m each night WHERE: City & County of Denver​ Building The annual Light the Lights celebration kicked off a schedule of daily holiday light and music shows at Denver’s City and County Building. The 8-minute, choreographed light and music show continues to run every night* at 5:45 pm and 6:45 pm from Nov 23 through Jan 22 except for the following days/dates. The City and County Building will showcase a festive,  static light display before, between, and after the two nightly shows, until 10:45 pm.  denver.org

Luminova Holidays

A Hudson Christmas: Extravaganza of Lights

WHEN: Nov. 24–December 31, 2023 WHERE: Hudson Gardens & Events Center

Hudson Gardens & Event Center will dazzle you with two brand-new, spectacular light shows. Kick off your holiday season with Hudson Holidays , featuring never-before-seen light installations like a cathedral comprised of thousands of LED lights. Ring in the new year with us as the exhibit transforms into the  Light Up the New Year  show that includes vibrant displays, a laser garden, and upbeat music. hudsongardens.org

Christmas in Color

WHEN: November 18, 2023 –January 1, 2024 WHERE: Bandimere Speedway, Water World, Araphoe County Fairgrounds Drive through millions of lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music you’ll hear right through your radio. Drive-by giant candy canes, snowmen, arched pathways and more. Take your time enjoying this lighting extravaganza – we won’t judge you if you join the kids with your face pressed against the window!  christmasincolor.net

Grand Illumination–Merry & Bright Lights Show

WHEN: Nov. 24, 2023 WHERE: Denver Union Station The annual Grand Illumination event will feature performances of classic holiday hits by the Denver Dolls, a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus, and the grand highlight of the evening—the lighting of the station’s outdoor 40-foot-tall Christmas tree that features more than 7,000 holiday lights. The Merry & Bright Lights show will run until 10:00 p.m., every evening through December 30th. denverunionstation.com

Dairy Block

WHEN: Nov. 25-Dec 17, 2023 WHERE: Dairy Block Dairy Block is excited to celebrate the magic of the season with  Holiday   on the Block,  an extensive line-up of festive events including a local makers market, Who-ligan entertainment, live music and carols winter art installations and more. The Mistletoe Market will be select weekends in November and December. Who-ligan Holiday Entertainment will be on select days in December and will include free photo opportunities with favorite holiday characters. See dairyblock.com for the full lineup. 

Parade of Lights

WHEN: Dec. 2, 2023; 6 p.m. WHERE: Throughout downtown This free holiday spectacular features extravagantly illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, magnificent marching bands, traditional equestrian units, and vibrant cultural displays. And of course, special appearances by Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa! The parade begins at 14th and Bannock Streets where you can purchase grandstand seating in front of the City and County Building. Spectators can view the parade for free along the two-mile route on Tremont Street between 14th and 17th Streets, on 17th Street from Tremont to Arapahoe Street, on Arapahoe between 17th and 15th Streets, and on 15th Street from Arapahoe to Glenarm. For more information, see the  9NEWS Parade of Lights .  

Trail of Lights

December Delights

WHEN: Dec. 8, 9, 15, 2023 WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park

Join Four Mile Historic Park for December Delights as we explore Victorian holiday traditions with an immersive experience in the Four Mile House. New this year, guests will be entertained by holiday classics from the Colorado Caroling Company as they wander the Park, and the Dapper Brass Band performing in Grant Hall. Don’t forget to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Bee House or shop for that perfect gift from curated local vendors in the Holiday Marketplace.  fourmilepark.org/december-delights

Night Lights Denver

WHEN: Permanent installation Tuesday and Sunday evenings WHERE: Daniels & Fisher Tower Night Lights Denver  features rotating content designed by local artists and the community and projected on the Arapahoe Street side of the Daniels & Fisher Tower every Tuesday through Sunday evening.  nightlightsdenver.com

Electric Safari

WHEN: December 1-3; 8-23, 25-January 1, 2024 WHERE: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the only place in Colorado Springs where you can see over 85 one-of-a-kind light sculptures, take a picture with Santa and visit your favorite animals! Electric Safari tickets are temporarily not available for purchase by non-members or reservations by members.  cmzoo.org

Chanukah Celebration

WHEN: December 10, 2023, at 5 p.m. WHERE: Cherry Creek North Celebrate the first night of Chanukah with Chabad of Cherry Creek. Families and guests of all ages will enjoy what is truly a festival of lights with face painting, fire juggling, festive treats and crafts.  cherrycreeknorth.com

Denver Tree Lightings and Lights 2023

Castle rock starlighting.

WHEN: Nov. 18, 2023 WHERE: 300 Second Street, Castle Rock Step into a Norman Rockwell scene at Starlighting, an annual traditional community ceremony that includes lighting the star on top of Castle Rock followed by a fireworks display. Festivities include caroling, dancing, ice skating, visiting with Santa Claus, kids activities, nonprofit booths, food vendors, hot chocolate, and the iconic chili supper at the Firehouse. castlerock.org/castle-rock-starlighting/

Olde Town Arvada Annual Tree Lighting

WHEN: Nov. 25, 2023 WHERE: 5726 Olde Wadsworth Blvd Arvada, CO 80002 Festivities kick off at 4:00 p.m. with a lively pop-up makers’ market, bars, and skating in the square. The evening’s musical enchantment begins with a festive march led by the talented brass band, Guerrilla Fanfare. Watch as local businesses illuminate their spaces with holiday lights, starting at 5:00 p.m. at Carly’s Boutique (7401 Grandview Ave). Guerrilla Fanfare will guide us back to the square, where delightful holiday activities will commence before the grand tree lighting at 6:00 p.m.! Following the magical moment, revel in the melodious tunes of The bFlatirons and explore our Holiday Pop-up Market for unique shopping experiences. oldetownarvada.org

Farolito Lighting & Pinecone Ceremony

Lakewood Lights

WHEN:  Dec. 1, 2023; 5–8 p.m. WHERE: Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, Lakewood Gather your friends, family and neighbors for this annual celebration! Join Lakewood Mayor and City Council for a lighting ceremony, then enjoy a stroll among the light displays, listen to festive live music and warm up with hot cocoa. Meet with jolly old Santa Claus or craft an ornament to commemorate this happy holiday lakewood.org

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

WHEN: Dec. 5, 2023 WHERE: Aurora Municipal Center, Aurora Witness the illumination of thousands of strands of lights. This event will have holiday-themed activities, treats, live entertainment and a visit from a special guest in a jolly red suit.  auroragov.org/

Family-Friendly Denver Holiday Events & Activities 

The polar express train ride.

Olde Golden Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 1-24, 2023 WHERE: Olde Town Golden

Golden’s beloved  Candlelight Walk  returned on Dec. 1 with holiday revelers strolling Washington Avenue holding candles and singing carols.  Golden’s Holiday Parade returns Dec. 9 with marching bands, floats, horses, Victorian carolers, elves, fire trucks, and, of course, Santa. Return for a magical day in Golden meeting and mingling with family favorite holiday characters along Washington Avenue on December 16 during the Jingle On the Avenue.  visitgolden.com

Rudolph Ramble 5K

WHEN: Dec. 3, 2023 WHERE: City Park Then one sunny Denver day, Santa came to say, “will you help me with your running shoes, and find Rudolph so he can guide my sleigh”? Well, will you help Santa? Rudolph loves to Ramble around Colorado! So grab your running or walking shoes and join the Rudolph Search & Rescue Team as we help Santa reunite with Rudolph just in time for Christmas. rundenverseries.com/

Winterfest 2023

WHEN Dec. 8-10, 2023 WHERE: Chautauqua, 900 Baseline Rd, Boulder Chautauqua’s beloved holiday tradition is back. Bring your friends and family and ring in the season with a tree lighting ceremony, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa’s Cottage, a historic cottage tour, holiday market and more! chautauqua.com/winterfest-2023

Visit the Village

WHEN: Dec. 9, 2023 WHERE: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds Celebrate the holiday season at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. It’s a family fun day with something for everyone—from shopping with local vendors, to make-and-take craft activities, Santa meet-and-greet, petting farm, horse-drawn rides, model train display, train rides, free hot chocolate and s’mores, face painting, food trucks, and tons of FUN! arapahoecountyeventcenter.com

Charlie Brown Goes to the Nutcracker

WHEN: Dec. 9, 16, 23, 2023 WHERE: St. Julien Hotel & Spa

“Charlie Brown” meets “The Nutcracker” during this annual music tradition hosted by  St Julien Hotel & Spa , and performed by Boulder’s own Ron LeGault Trio. This complimentary performance, which blends the music from “Charlie Brown Christmas” show, composed by Vince Guaraldi, with the jazz versions of “The Nutcracker,” written by Duke Ellington, features the Ron LeGault Trio. Curl up by the fireplace in the lobby, sip a seasonal cocktail and spread holiday cheer.    stjulien.com/

Santa’s Flight Academy

WHEN: Nov. 10–Dec. 24, 2023 WHERE: Cherry Creek Shopping Center Your little ones can step inside a 22-foot-tall sleigh and experience the magical snowfall. They can also have their photos taken with Santa.  Reservations  are recommended.  shopcherrycreek.com

Cherry Creek North Holiday Market and Winter Wonderland

WHEN: Nov. 16–Dec. 24, 2023 WHERE: Cherry Creek North The free  Cherry Creek North Holiday Market  at Fillmore Plaza features 30 local artisan vendors, live music, and festive drinks and decor.  Festivities include a dazzling display of nearly one million twinkling lights on more than 600 trees spread throughout the walkable neighborhood, the domino effect art installation, Chanukah celebration, Saturday Night Lights and more.   cherrycreeknorth.com

Denver Christkindlmarket

WHEN: Nov. 17–Dec. 23, 2023 WHERE: Civic Center Park101 West 14th Avenue, Denver

This outdoor event brings the most beloved elements of an authentic German holiday experience to The Mile High City. Stroll through a European village decorated for the holiday season as you shop for finely crafted artisan gifts and treats at charming wooden huts. Fuel your shopping with authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine), German Biers and hot chocolate, and nosh on Bavarian-style pretzels, fresh smoked salmon, Knödel, Goulasch, Nürnberger Sausages, pastries, caramels and European chocolates. This year’s market will include a “Kinder Wunderland” with s’more-making stations, yard games and age-appropriate activities.  christkindlmarketdenver.com

Four Mile Historic Park: December Delights

Join Four Mile Historic Park for December Delights as we explore Victorian holiday traditions with an immersive experience in the Four Mile House. New this year, guests will be entertained by holiday classics from the Colorado Caroling Company as they wander the Park, and the Dapper Brass Band performing in Grant Hall. Don’t forget to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Bee House or shop for that perfect gift from curated local vendors in the Holiday Marketplace.  www.fourmilepark.org.

Downtown Denver Rink

Music & Performing Arts 

A christmas carol.

The Nutcracker by the Colorado Conservatory of Dance

WHEN: Dec. 9, 10, 16, 17, 2023 WHERE: Performing Arts Complex at PCS

The CCD production, presented yearly since 1993, boasts gorgeous sets and costumes, stunning choreography, and professional guest artists from around the country. Following each performance, CCD is the only one in the Denver metro area that allows children to learn choreography from the ballet, while in their seats. This year, audience members will also have the opportunity to take socially-distanced photos with the Nutcracker Prince, Clara, and other characters from the ballet to complete the magical experience.  Note: Dec. 15 is a sensory-friendly performance.  ccdance.org/performances

Colorado Ballet Presents ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Nov. 25–Dec. 24, 2023 WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one’s ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for  Colorado Ballet . A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever.  coloradoballet.org/The-Nutcracker

Home Alone Concert

WHEN: Nov. 24-25, 2023 WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex Celebrate this modern holiday classic featuring John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live as the film is screened for your enjoyment! Hilarious and heartwarming,  Home Alone  is holiday fun for the entire family.  tickets.coloradosymphony.org

Beauty and the Beast

WHEN: Nov. 25-Dec. 31, 2023 WHERE: Arvada Center

Be our guest this holiday season with a tale as old as time! When a prince is transformed into a Beast by a spell that can only be broken by true love, it’s up to the bookworm Belle to not only accept his love – but truly love him in return.  arvadacenter.org

Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum

WHEN: Dec. 2-17, 2023 WHERE: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum is a multicultural celebration that touches the hearts of people of all backgrounds, kindling the wonderment and magic shared across the winter holiday season. Each year, Granny highlights new stories from her rich life dancing around the world, making way for new twists and scenes for an artistically fresh production every time. No wonder it’s one of the city’s most beloved family traditions inspiring audiences both young and old through the universal language of dance!  cleoparkerdance.org/

A Colorado Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 8-10, 2023 WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex The warm sounds of the holidays fill the Hall with festive seasonal favorites! This family-friendly evening features Devin DeSantis and Christine Mild, with traditional Christmas carols, your favorite new winter tunes, and even some newly arranged surprises! coloradosymphony.org

Home for the Holidays

WHEN: Dec. 14-23, 2022 WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center There’s something for everyone in this holiday spectacular: dancers, singers, holiday songs, and, of course, celebrity appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. With an updated storyline for 2023 and a few spectacular surprises, Home for the Holidays is sure to delight and put you in the holiday spirit. After 10 years, Home for the Holidays will be going on a break—don’t miss your last chance to see this beloved holiday tradition. lonetreeartscenter.org

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. While clicking these links won’t cost you extra money, they help us keep this site up and running. See our  disclosure  policy. 

Author: Mile High Mamas

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Holidays in Denver

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Most popular denver flight and hotel deals, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a holiday in denver, tips for finding cheap holiday packages denver.

• There are loads of types of holidays in Denver and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travellers: Top holiday £288; Family holiday £239; Romantic holiday £434; Luxury holiday £510; Budget holiday £191.

Denver holidays: top tips

Since Denver enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year, you have a lot of choice as for when to visit for pleasant weather. The best times to visit for warmer weather are between April and October. The city is also popular from November through to March as well though, as those taking ski holidays flock to the city. Denver International Airport serves the city and from there you can take public transport, hotel shuttles or taxis to your accommodation. Getting around the city is easy by bike, bus or light rail, and to travel to surrounding areas you could hire a car. The time zone in Denver is GMT -7.

What to do on your Denver holidays

There are countless activities and attractions for holiday-makers in Denver. Why not fill your Denver holidays with trips to some of the city's many parks, with their flower gardens and lakes? Cheesman Park offers unbeatable views of Denver's skyline. The Denever Art Museum is a must for art history enthusiasts, and the Molly Brown House Museum will satisfy history buffs as it's the former Victorian house of Titanic survivor and labour reformist Margaret Brown. For those on holiday with kids, Lakeside and Waterworld are two amusement parks with rollercoasters and waterslides. Every month there is a new festival in town as well, such as Buffalo Bill's Birthday Party in February and Denver Beer Fest in September.

Where to stay in Denver

Denver holiday information, other popular package holiday destinations.

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Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

15 Unique Weekend Trips from Denver with Killer Scenery

• December 9, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by foxintheforest

Travel like a local, not a tourist with this list of weekend trips from Denver. Catering to everyone from the hardcore outdoor adventurer to the casual weekend getaway from Denver, you’ll have it all.

I’ve lived here for over 15 years and I write about Colorado for a living folks. Not to mention, I spent 12 years living in Denver and traveling every weekend to explore everything that Colorado and the surrounding areas have to offer.

Having personally traveled to every location on this list, multiple times, you can know that you’re getting the best list of weekend trips on the web!

Hands down.

From the unbelievable mountain views of the San Juan Range to the family-friendly streets of Breckenridge and Steamboat, there is a weekend trip from Denver for everyone.

The Best Weekend Trips from Denver within a 3-Hour Drive

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, then this lineup of places to visit within a 3-hour drive of Denver is for you.

Typically we opt to stay within 3 hours of Denver if we are going for a regular weekend and don’t have an extra day to spare. This has become more true now that we have a toddler in tow!

Local Tip: I-70 traffic is NUTS! Plan to add 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to your journey if you head westbound on Friday from 12 pm to 5 pm or Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm. Add 1 hour to your journey if you plan to head eastbound from 11:30 am to 4 pm on a Sunday.

1. Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

Okay, so if you live in Denver I’m not positive you’re going to want to spend a weekend in RMNP and Estes, but we’ve done it a few times. Typically we will just spend the day in Rocky Mountain National Park. Or we head there for one particular thing.

But, locals might want to scope out the fall here. The crowds of summer are gone and things get a little bit quieter – especially after the leaves have turned.

If you’re visiting from out of town, then looking at Estes Park as a weekend trip is an excellent idea. For a quieter experience, you can also stay at Grand Lake or Granby, which puts you on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Another popular – yet worthy – way to spend your weekend in Estes is to explore Rocky Mountain National Park . Littered with incredible things to do, Rocky Mountain is a must-see any time of year. Don’t miss some of the other beautiful hikes in Estes Park like Sky Pond , Emerald Lake , and Gem Lake!

For a quieter experience, visit the nearby Indian Peaks Wilderness for a few fantastic views and even more beautiful trails.

Wildlife is everywhere here. Don’t miss the fall elk rut. Or go for an early morning drive along Trail Ridge Road, one of the best scenic drives near Denver to spot the ram in the high alpine – a great activity if you don’t want to hike.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Virtually all of the hiking trail parking lots in Rocky Mountain National Park fill up before 6 am, especially on weekends (you’ll need a permit to enter Rocky ).

Distance from Denver: 1.5 hours, 65 miles Best for: Families with school-aged children, national park enthusiasts, visitors to Colorado, those who like to check off best-of lists, hikers, wildlife photographers, mountaineers, and climbers. When to go: Late June through October. Highlights: RMNP, Peak-to-Peak scenic byway, Indian Peaks Wilderness, Trail Ridge Road Lowlights : BIG crowds, traffic, timed entry requirements for RMNP Family-friendly? Yes, but if you are coming from out of town, be aware of the altitude, especially with babies!

2. Skip the Crowds at Breckenridge and Head to Frisco Instead

Frisco often gets overlooked in favor of Silverthorn and Breckenridge. However, not exploring this small town at the base of the Tenmile Range is a huge mistake.

Hot take here, but Breckenridge is COMPLETELY over-run and has not much to write home about aside from traffic and over-priced, mediocre food. Not to mention, you can easily get to Breck or Vail from Frisco, making it an ideal choice for a home base (and one that we locals prefer).

Reservoir access gives you tons of options for water-based recreation. While the bike path literally goes through town. You can road bike on paved trails all over the I-70 corridor. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of Vail Pass (keep going – the ride down is AWESOME!)

Hikers will love the easy access to simple hikes right from their lodging. If you’re a sport climber, then rope up and climb the Royal Flush (5.9, 7 pitches) for an alpine climbing-like experience to the top of Mount Royal.

There are plenty of cool things to do for families, such as riding the bike path toward Breck and hanging out at the creek, playground, or rec center right along the path.

Distance from Denver: 1.5 hours, 69 miles Best for: Water sports, mountain biking, road biking, hiking. When to go: Early June through October. Ski season: best from January to mid-March. Highlights: Lots of hiking within walking distance to town, developed bike paths, free shuttle busses that go to Breck and Vail, marina, and some campgrounds. Lowlights : Limited lodging options, parking can be challenging, and you are very close to I70 noise. Family-friendly? Yes!

3. Soak in the Hot Springs at Glenwood Springs

I’m always up for a quick escape to Glenwood Springs with our little family. This is a really manageable way to spend the weekend immersed in beautiful scenery with young kids. The hot springs are great and there are a few active attractions worth seeing.

You can also hop over to nearby Carbondale, one of my absolute favorite weekend getaways for a quiet escape into the mountains.

You should visit Glenwood Springs at least once. Nearby you’ll find a cool (and kid-friendly) adventure park and a gondola there’s plenty for families here.

Don’t miss the iconic Hanging Lake hike , an easy hike. It also happens to be one of the most unique hikes in Colorado . You’ll need to make a reservation for a $12 permit, but it’s worth it.

The town of Glenwood Springs offers plenty of entertainment, with lovely local eating options and a charm that welcomes you with open arms to the great Centennial State.

Local Tip: Couples will also enjoy visiting Iron Mountain Hot Springs!

Distance from Denver: 2 hrs 45 mins, 157 miles Best for: Families with babies and young kids, road trippers, first-time visitors, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and hot springs enthusiasts. When to go: Year-round Highlights: Lots of hot springs, easy access from I-70, different lodgings options and various prices, access to Aspen and Carbondale. Lowlights : Can be very busy during the summer, does not have a “mountain town” feel, and you are very close to I70 noise. Family-friendly? Yes, probably the most family-friendly location on this list!

4. Enjoy Solitude in Carbondale

I always love the time I spend in Carbondale. Honestly, if it weren’t for the need for my spouse to be near a metro area for work, we would live here.

It’s a lovely, laid-back place that has quick and easy access to nearby hot spots Aspen and Glenwood Springs. The restaurants here are really delicious and the local nature of the place provides an awesome weekend escape from Denver’s hustle and bustle. Not to mention, Mt Sopris is so pretty to look at!

Think of it as the local getaway, where many people come to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Elk Mountain Range without the pretentious mindset that you’ll find in Aspen.

The first Friday of the month features a budding art scene – where downtown Carbondale turns into a hot spot for local artists. Head up Mt Sopris or go for a gravel bike ride in the mountains to soak in the beautiful scenery.

After a long day outdoors, skinny dip in the Penny Hot Springs for a real local experience.

Local Tip: Carbondale is a bit pricey compared to Glenwood Springs and traffic heading to/from Aspen can be a nightmare, so head that way early!

Distance from Denver: 3 hours, 170 miles Best for: Hikers looking for a base to explore the Elks and Maroon Bells Wilderness, those looking for a quiet escape. When to go: Mid-June through September. Highlights: Great local food, bike paths, some quieter hikes, great if you want to split your time between Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Lowlights : Expensive, not any best-of Colorado things in the immediate vicinity, can feel really sleepy if you’re looking for a lot of action. Family-friendly? Yes

5. Ski and Relax in Steamboat Springs

Steamboat is a pretty sweet spot to spend the weekend. Most people come here for the skiing, but there is plenty to do in the summer too!

Oh ya, and there’s a ski resort that has some of the best tree skiing in the country.

As one of the few places in Colorado where you can ride on dedicated snowmobile trails, you’ll want to book a rental or tour for this classic Colorado winter activity .

During the summer be sure to check out the Zirkle Wilderness, Rabbit Ears Pass (lots of ATVing), and Fish Creek Falls!

After a day of high-adrenaline fun, hit up Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a natural soak. This is THE hot springs to visit in Colorado , so don’t miss out!

Local Tip: You will need an advanced reservation to visit Strawberry Park and they sell out quickly! It can be slick and there isn’t a lot of privacy for changing, so come prepared!

Distance from Denver: 3 hours, 156 miles Best for: Skiiers, ATVers, snowmobilers, and some hiking, but not a ton. When to go: Mid-June through September and January through March Highlights: Lots to do in the village, top hot spring in Colorado, tours and rentals of ATVs/snowmobiles. Great hunting out here too. Lowlights : Expensive, mountain scenery isn’t too dramatic Family-friendly? Yes

Escape to These Scenic Locales 3-6 Hours from Denver

So I would personally recommend these Denver getaways if you have a long weekend, just because they are quite a drive. However, if you’re a road warrior, certainly get after it.

If you are coming from out of town, you may want to consider bundling a few of these locations for a Colorado road trip , as a quick weekend will feel like a lot of driving.

6. Telluride: Denver’s Best Weekend Getaway for Mountain Lovers

I love any opportunity I get to come to the San Juans and Telluride is a special treat! It’s one of the more expensive locales on this list, but it’s nestled in a stunning mountain valley with insane views at every turn.

We love to go 4×4 driving in and out of Telluride and stay in nearby Ouray. This is an excellent option if you have more than a weekend.

But if you want luxury accommodation and picture-perfect mountain scenes right outside of your doorstep, then this is the spot to be!

Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this charming mountain locale has everything: waterfall hikes, some of the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado , great eats, an adventurous Telluride via Ferrata , and more.

In the winter, you’ll be treated to world-class skiing at Telluride Resort and you can even hop over to Ouray for a day at the ice climbing park (no experience required).

It’s easy to spend a lifetime here indulging in Telluride’s best hikes and tackling on some of the most scenic dirt roads in the state. You’ll for sure want a vehicle with some clearance and 4WD to make the most of your stay here.

Local Tip: There is only one road in and out of Telluride – making it a pain to access. If you’re only here for a weekend, it’s best to just stick to activities in the immediate vicinity to avoid a long 1-hour drive in and out of town.

Distance from Denver: 6.5 hours, 327 miles Best for: 4×4 road drivers, skiers, luxury travelers, and hikers (most hikes are challenging due to the steep surrounding terrain). When to go: Mid-June through September and January through March. Highlights: Picture-perfect town, waterfalls, via Ferrata, Blue Lake hike, 4×4 roads in and out of town, great for road trips along the San Juan Scenic Byway. Lowlights : Expensive, food isn’t great and over-priced, isolated, difficult to get around town by car. Family-friendly? Not as much as other places on the list. Suitable for older children.

7. The Switzerland of America: Ouray

A little ways past the turnoff for Telluride you’ll find Ouray, Colorado. Dubbed “the Switzerland of America” this jaw-dropping mountain town got its start with mining. Nearby you’ll find the famous Million Dollar Highway – the most scenic drive in Colorado.

This is my all-time favorite mountain in Colorado. I can’t get enough of this place. It’s a stretch for a weekend, simply because there’s so much to do nearby. I’d recommend spending at least 3 full days here, but I included it because it’s just that stunning!

Ice Lake Basin is a world-famous hike nearby. Not to mention there are plenty of 4×4 trails, fishing opportunities, and drool-worthy vistas to keep you occupied for a weekend getaway from Denver.

The town itself boasts plenty of adorable shops and delicious eats. A must-do weekend trip from Denver for sure!

Distance from Denver: 5.5 hours, 301 miles Best for: 4×4 road drivers, hikers (most hikes are challenging due to the steep surrounding terrain), ice climbers, via Ferrata enthusiasts, scenic drives, great camping options When to go: Year-round, but it’s best from mid-June through September. Winters are lovely, but the weather can close the roads. Highlights : Beautiful town that’s easy to access, right along the famous Million Dollar Highway, lots of hiking, Ouray Adventure Park offers ice climbing and via Ferrata for free, and ATVing options. Lowlights : Windy driving on roads without guardrails can be intimidating for the uninitiated, not a lot of beginner-friendly hikes (and trails can be crowded), best if you have a 4Runner, Jeep, or equivalent. Family-friendly? Great for school-age kids and up. Challenging for toddlers and babies.

Local Tip: July is prime time to see the wildflowers blooming in the mountains. Coupled with dramatic views of red-capped peaks, this place is unbelievable.

8. Mountain Bike and Hike the Deserts of Fruita and Grand Junction

We visit Fruita and Grand Junction Fall through Spring multiple times a year. It helps that we have family out here, but it’s also a great place to get outside when it’s not quite warm enough in the mountains.

The feel in Grand Junction and nearby Fruita (15 minutes down the road) is more of a red rock desert. We love to come here for a quick escape into the desert without committing to southern Utah.

Fruita is a budding little hipster town on the western slope is best known for some of the best mountain biking trails in Colorado.

After you’re finished with single-track riding, check out some incredible hikes in the Colorado National Monument .

You’ll feel like you’re in Moab with these stunning sandstone canyons. Don’t forget to check out hikes like Devil’s Canyon Loop Trail just outside the park too.

Afterward, snag a slice at the Hot Tomato, an amazing pizza joint in town!

Grand Junction is a great nearby home base if you want more options for dining or you’d like to be close to the wine country in nearby Palisade. But realistically you’ll be within arms reach of all the amazing things to do at either Fruita or Grand Junction.

Local Tip: If the weather looks yucky in the rest of the state, definitely give Fruita and Grand Junction a peep, you may find that you can skirt the storms!

Distance from Denver: 4 hours, 254 miles Best for: mountain biking, wine tasting, desert scenery. When to go: Mid-October through early May. Highlights : Famous mountain biking trails, Palisade wine country is nearby, The Colorado National Monument (views, hikes, intrepid rock climbing, and camping) Lowlights : It does not have any classic mountain views, realllllly hot in the summer Family-friendly? Yes! Although it’s not as geared towards children as other places on this list (think cliffs, cacti, and you’ll need some stamina to bike!)

9. Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison

One of my first experiences in Colorado was hiking to the bottom of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison . I can’t say I recommend that for first-timers with little hiking experience (I got left at the bottom), but either way this place is impressive.

Here you’ll find sweeping views of 1,000-plus foot black granite walls. Super impressive views can be found here!

It’s often often overlooked in favor of other Colorado national parks in the state, but that’s a mistake. It’s so quiet and super beautiful here.

Now I come to climb these cliff walls (yes, you can climb here and it’s just as intense as it looks). But I always love soaking up a sunset at one of the many overlooks.

There isn’t a ton to do for the average visitor, which means a weekend is perfect here.

Camp along the rim of the national park and enjoy easy rim hikes, a challenging hike to the bottom of the canyon, or explore the rad climbs in the area.

You can also see the canyon by boat – a really unique way to grasp just how large this canyon system is.

Relax in the nearby town of Gunnison, known for its classic ranching charm. Eat at High Alpine Brewing for some post-canyon noshing.

Distance from Denver: 5 hrs, 262 miles Best for: National Park lovers, photographers, experienced hikers or leisurely hikers, great camping. When to go: Spring and fall. This park closes its gates in the winter. Summers are scorching. Highlights : Unique views, unique hikes, great camping, and very difficult trad climbing. Lowlights : Not a whole lot to do compared to other places on this list, difficult to access the North Rim of the park, not a lot of infrastructure nearby. Family-friendly? No. You can take your kiddo here, but there are very few guardrails and not a lot of things to do for children.

Local Tip : An America the Beautiful Parks Pass gets you into all 4 of Colorado’s National Parks , and many more scenic Colorado hot spots.

10. Enjoy the Fall Colors of Crested Butte

Crested Butte is my second favorite mountain town next to Ouray.

I’ve been here a LOT over the years. There’s always something to do in Crested Butte from stunning wildflower blooms to skiing. But my personal favorite is coming to Crested Butte to check out the fall color displays.

Okay, so you can certainly visit Crested Butte year-round, but the best time to visit has to be in the fall.

Kebler Pass is the most amazing place to view the aspens. In fact, it’s got one of the largest aspen groves in the world. Did you know that each grove is a single tree? How’s that for some local know-how?

The winters are an excellent time to ski Mount Crested Butte, Colorado’s favorite local mountain. While the summer is prime time for mountain biking – a Colorado hot spot.

The town of Crested Butte is the Colorado mountain town you dream about. Uber-cute boutique shopping is everywhere and Teocalli Tamale serves up an excellent breakfast burrito.

Enjoy that post-hike hunger at the Secret Stash a pizzeria serving up unique flavors with attitude.

Distance from Denver: 4.5 hours, 228 miles Best for: Mountain bikers, skiers, hikers (although not as dramatic as other hiking areas). When to go: Year-round. Highlights : Stunning wildflower displays, incredible fall colors, and great skiing Lowlights : Gotten pricier over the years, a bit isolated, and can be very busy. Family-friendly? Yes.

11. Pamper Yourself in Aspen

Personally, I’m not a huge fan of the town of Aspen. It’s mostly rich people from Texas with their mega-mansions. The traffic is awful, parking sucks, and everything is overpriced.

BUT, it has a few redeeming qualities. First, being seen in designerwear in the mountains might be your jam. And the restaurants are quite good here.

However, the BIGGEST reason to check out Aspen is the nearby Maroon Bells Wilderness.

I pop up for a weekend here not to enjoy the town, but to go backpacking or trail running these stunning mountains.

It is also home to one of the most iconic scenes in Colorado – the Maroon Bells Scenic Area – and it is worth checking out. But I personally only recommend coming to Aspen if you’re looking for an overpriced luxury experience OR to spend time sleeping in the backcountry.

Local Tip : Permits and parking for the Maroon Bells Wilderness sell out almost immediately. Plan well in advance!

Distance from Denver: 3.5 hours, 198 miles Best for: Photographers, hikers, backpackers, and uber-luxury travelers. When to go: Late June through September and January through March (skiing only) Highlights : Amazing mountain scenery, some of the best backpacking and hiking in the state, advanced 14er summits, and designer shops. Lowlights : CROWDED with lots of traffic, difficult to plan a trip here, extremely expensive, even backcountry trips are busy. Family-friendly? No. Older kids may enjoy backpacking.

12. Camp with the Kiddos at the Great Sand Dunes National Park

If you’re looking for the ultimate kid-friendly weekend away, look no further than the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

We’ve been camping here with our daughter, and pretty much the entire campground was families with kids. And it makes sense, who DOESN’T want to play on nature’s biggest sand castle?

Did you know that the largest sand dunes in North America are in Southern Colorado? These mega-dunes create one of the best weekend trips from Denver.

The sand bubbles up from a spring (considered sacred to many Native Americans in the area) and creates a natural masterpiece.

With backdrops of the Sangre de Cristo Range, this picture-perfect landscape is ripe with opportunities for enjoyment.

Make your reservations in advance to camp at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Drive a 4×4 road, park at the dunes, and play in the sand, or take on a type 2 fun hike up Star Dune.

During late spring, there is a stream that traverses the dunes, making it an ideal place for kids and dogs to play.

Don’t forget to bring your camera. Sunsets from the campground are incredible. Not to mention the park is in designated Dark Sky Territory.

Distance from Denver: 3 hrs 30 min, 230 miles Best for: Campers, families with kids, photographers When to go: June through September Highlights : Great campground, 4×4 driving, ATVing (not in the park but nearby), accessible sand dunes. Lowlights : Campground reservations sell out immediately, not a lot of infrastructure around, and mosquitos can be really intense. Family-friendly? YES! This place is very popular with families.

Weekend Getaways from Denver that Are in Other States

Getting out of Denver sometimes means crossing the state lines. I know, we live in the best state ever, but our neighbors also have a TON of cool scenes to check out.

Spring and Fall are great times to head to the desert of southern Utah. While Wyoming occasionally avoids those pesky summer storms that take up your entire weekend.

These are a few of my favorite out-of-state spots to check out in just a weekend.

13. Climb, Camp, and Hike in Laramie, Wyoming

Whenever the weather sucks over a summer weekend, I always peep the forecast in Laramie. We love to come here to climb, but there are other things on the table too. This is a great spot to look when we get a stormy weekend across the Rockies.

Known as “Laradise” by locals, this quirky, western college town has a lot on offer.

Nearby Vedauwoo is something from another planet. Hiking trails and camping are abundant (and accessible) through these huge, lumpy rock pillars. Trad climbers flock here to try their luck at the brutal off-width climbing.

After a day of exploring head to Laramie for endless food options, quirky bars, and fun shopping.

Don’t forget to go for a hike in the Medicine Bow National Forest!

Distance from Denver: 2 hrs 15 mins, 129 miles Best for: Climbers, BLM camping, easy forested hikes, and some mountain biking. When to go: May through September Highlights : Vedauwoo, Medicine Bow National Forest, not on I-70 corridor. Lowlights : Not a ton going on here. Family-friendly? For older kids sure, bringing a baby here was tough.

14. Visit Moab Moab: Utah’s Adventure Capital

I cannot count how many times I’ve been to Moab. It’s my go-to weekend getaway location. Now that I live about 40 minutes closer, I go even more.

I’ve been here countless times fall through spring and spent several Christmases here – Moab in winter is absolute magic if you can stomach the cold. I’ve done everything from climbing the famous Castleton Tower to hiking in Arches with my toddler.

What makes it great is that you can extend your camping season by months! The scenery here is other-worldly and there’s lots of it to uncover!

There are SO MANY things to do in Moab , you’ll find yourself coming back again and again. Here are just a few of the activities on offer:

• Rock climbing near Moab
• Hiking in Arches National Park – hello Delicate Arch !
• Mountain biking
• Checking out Moab’s most scenic drives
• Backpacking in Canyonlands
• 4×4 driving on the White Rim Road

Distance from Denver: 5.5 hours, 355 miles Best for: National park enthusiasts, mountain bikers, hikers, campers, climbers, 4×4 drivers, photographers, and families. When to go: October through April Highlights : Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, 4×4 drives, world-class mountain biking, Dead Horse Point State Park , desert scenery galore! Lowlights : It can be very crowded. Avoid travel here during Easter Jeep Week. Advanced planning for permits and timed entry in national parks is required. Camping is highly restricted. Family-friendly? Moab can be as family-friendly or as rugged as you want it to be. My daughter has been here plenty and I’ve been here multiple times while pregnant.

Local Tip: Avoid this place in the summer. It’s chock full of obnoxious tourists. Visit in November through March for the slowest season.

15. Go for a Swim in Lake McConaughy, Nebraska

I’ve been coming to Lake McConaughy (or Lake Mac) for the better part of a decade. My spouse’s dad lives on the lake.

This place offers up a lot of swimming, beach camping (reservation required), and a totally different vibe than anything you’ll get near Denver.

Sick of the mountains? Head east. Okay, so before you knock me for putting a flatland locale on this list, Lake McConaughy is actually pretty unique.

It’s the largest (think speed boats, jet skis, kayaks, and spearfishing) lake within a weekend trip from Denver. 

It’s huge, the water is warm (unlike the icy alpine lakes of the Rockies), and you’ll find incredible beach-front camping.

The sand here is like being on a Caribbean beach. Fishing and camping permits are available and you can pitch your tent – or, more popular – RV right on the water’s edge. 

Come for the sand, stay for the sunsets.

Distance from Denver: 3.5 hours, 209 miles Best for: Families, boating, camping on the beach, spending time on the water. When to go: May through September Highlights : Beach camping, boating activities, fishing. Lowlights : It can be very crowded during the holidays. The nearest large town is quite far. Family-friendly? Yes!

Additional Colorado Travel Resources

Tired of playing the tourist? Get local, real advice about how to see Colorado like a local.

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Colorado
• The Only 4-day Road Trip Itinerary in Colorado You’ll Ever Need
• Your Guide to Camping in Colorado

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Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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• 12 Exciting Things To Do In Denver On Your Vacation In Colorado, The USA, In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Acknowledged as the Mile High City in the United States, Denver nestles at an elevation of exactly one mile above the sea level. Encompassed by the beautiful range of the Rocky Mountains, Denver rests in the river valley of South Platte. This capital city of Colorado is a haven with several galleries, museums, and eateries for people to enjoy. Denver is loaded with a medley of sightseeing places and offers plenty of opportunities and things to do in Denver so that one can experience an energetic holiday in the USA.

12 Fun Things To Do In Denver

Whether you are wandering shopping malls, strolling through zoos, or merging into exciting ventures, the to-do list in Denver never stops from astonishing you. Here is a complete list of the top things to do in Denver, Colorado for your trip.

1. Confluence Park – Ride The Man-made Kayaks

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Confluence is a three-acre park positioned on a picturesque mountain that is accompanied by the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek. This place is popular for kayaking on man-made slides over the currents of South Platte River. This park can be visited by both families with kids owing to the kid-friendly kayak experience here.

Opening hours: 10 AM – 8 PM Location: 2301 7th St, Denver, CO 80211, United States Nearby places to visit: Downtown Aquarium, Coors Field, Molly Brown House Museum

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2. Ride A Bicycle Across The Town

One of the most popular fun things to do in Denver is to explore the city’s pathways by riding rented by-cycles with your buddies and cherish the scenic momentum of the emerging rocky mountains under the azure sun-soaked sky. You can contact the Denver B-cycle agency which has a wide range of shiny red bikes and allows the visitors easy picking-dropping amenities in exchange for a small membership fee.

Location: Larimer St A, Denver, CO 80205, United States Nearby places to visit: Cherry Creek Trail, Washington Park, Aurora Village, Sloan’s Lake Park, and High Line Canal Trail

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3. City Parks Trail – Take A Stroll

City Park, the premier regional park features a 3.1-mile route named Mile High Trail that draws with 5280 contour line of Denver City. Hold your beloved’s hand and walk along on this beautiful train and appreciate the mountain beauty. When here, you can visit the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum, watch movies at Denver City Garden IMAX, play sports like tennis, baseball, soccer, horseshoes, and even witness ancient monuments and statues.

Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM Location: 1440 Kearney St, Denver, CO 80220, United States Nearby places to visit: Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado State Capitol, Larimer Square, Saint John’s Cathedral

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4. Colorado Convention Center – Ride A Scooter

Enjoy the local beauty of Denver with your buddies or beloved by riding on a scooter through the beautiful roads of the city. Denver has plenty of agencies that offer scooters on rent to explore the city. You can contact ScooTour Denver that offers Vespa-style scooters along with helmet, goggles, fuel and insurance and training. The paper works only takes 2-3 hours and the client must have their driving license along with them.

Location: 1417 California St., Denver, CO 80202 Suggested starting point: Colorado Convention Center

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5. Denver Skatepark – Go Skating

Image Credit: Lylie King for Pexels

Denver Skateparking offers 60,000 feet2 of skateable premises made of concrete perfect for bladers, bikers, skaters, and boarders. Participants have to bring their own gear and equipment since there is no rental available. There is no entry charge for skating or rollerblading at this park and the park is open till midnight.

Location: 20th Raven St, Denver, CO 80202 Opening hours: 5 AM – 12 AM Nearby places to visit: Elyria Johnson Park, Green Valley Ranch, Stapleton Greenway Park, Aurora Park

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6. Smith Lake – Try Paddle Boating

One of the free things to do in Denver is floating across the beautiful Smith Lake on an easy-to-use pedal boat that can be easily received from a rental service in Denver itself. Admission to this enormous park is free of cost and you can have fun experiences like fishing, strolling around the lake, picnicking with children, or just watching them play in the large playground.

Opening hours: 5 AM – 10 PM Location: S. Downing St. & E. Louisiana Ave, Denver, CO 80209

Suggested Read: 12 Places To Visit In California: A Short Trip To Experience Miniature America

7. Downtown Aquarium – See The Marine Life

Downtown Aquarium is one of the most visited tourist spots in Denver and located in the center of Downtown. The aquarium center is a reservation of a variety of marine species including 15000 variety of fishes, plants, mammals, stingrays, eels, tiger sharks, turtles, and guitarfish. Enjoying the Marine life at Downtown Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Denver at night. You can also take a peek at the underwater marine life through the thick transparent glass. Other than this, you can also go snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming here.

Opening hours: 10 AM – 9 PM Location: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, United States Entry fee: $21.99

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Mexico: 10 Romantic Ideas To Try

8. Japanese Garden – Explore This Lush Marvel

Denver Botanic garden, also known as the Japanese Garden, preaches a tranquil environment where the whole family, groups of friends, and newlyweds can explore the scenic beauty of mother nature along while indulging in various recreational activities. The place is rich in biological diversity and has nature trails leading to the wildlife section, an ancient far, one-room schoolhouse built in the 19th century. The recreational activities here include picnicking, climbing Rock Alpine Garden, playing at Mordecai Children’s Park, and visiting Deer Creek Discovery playground.

Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, United States Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM

Suggested Read: 15 Largest Zoos In The World Where You Can Spot The Rarest Fauna & Have Ultimate Fun!

9. Red Rocks Park – Go Mountain Biking

Red Rocks Park, also an Amphitheatre, comprises of gorgeous rock formations, open meadow, and lush valleys. The list of popular things to do in Denver complements hiking at this beautiful destination. Here you also can opt for mountain biking through the Red Rocks Trail connecting to Dakota Ridge Trail.

Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States Best nearby eateries: Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, The Cookery at Myrtle Hill, Watercourse Foods, Sushi Den

Suggested Read: 5 Top Cruises In Los Angeles That Are Worth Every Dime For Your Next Sailing Adventure

10. Rocky Arsenal Wildlife Refuge – Birdwatching And Forest Safari

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is an extensive reservation of wildlife varieties. More than 330 species variety including deer, black-footed ferrets, owls, bison, etc is to be found here. In the list of best things to do in Denver includes jungle safari and bird watching at this beautiful wildlife conservation area of the rocky mountains. Other activities that you can try here are fishing and hiking.

Opening hours: 9 AM – 4 PM Location: 6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022, United States Entry fee: $3

Suggested Read: 6 Cruises in Orlando For An Astonishing Journey Through The Sea!

11. Rocky Mountain – Hot Air Balloon Ride

Feel Turkish adventure in the land of Denver with your partner, family or friends by riding Hot Air balloons over the sky touching peaks of Rock Mountain and appreciate the Beautiful Vista of Colorado’s Mountain Landscape. This is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Denver with kids that will stay in their memories forever! You can contact Fair Winds Hot Air Balloon Rides agency when you’re here for a fun ride in the air at economical rates.

Launch site: 10538 Arapahoe Rd., Lafayette, CO 8002

Suggested Read: Top Cruises In New York To Visit For A Romantic Time With Your Loved Ones

12. Idaho Springs Creek – White Water Rafting

Image Courtesy: goodfreephotos.com

If posses a brave spirit then you must try whitewater rafting through Idaho spring leading to the Arkansas River near Colorado Springs. This bone-chilling experience is one of the hottest ventures to accomplish in the land of Denver. You can contact Raft Masters and Clear Creek Rafting Co. agency when you’re here for a fun river rafting experience.

Best time for white water rafting: May to September

Further Read: 10 Best American Road Trips For An Unforgettable Journey In The Land Of Enchanting Sceneries!

If you are preparing your next vacation to the mile-high city of Colorado, don’t forget to add these aforementioned opportunities to the list of things to do in Denver as well. Wishing you a happy and exhilarating holiday in the US !

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Denver

What is Denver famous for?

Denver is famous for its outstanding plethora of tourist magnetism, ancient structures, luxury hotels, and restaurants. It is also famous for vast opportunities for adventure and recreational activities, tasty cuisines, and its geographical location as it is positioned on the exact one mile up from the sea level.

What food is Denver most famous for?

The most famous foods in Denver is – Palisade Peaches, Colorado Craft Beer, Green Chili / Pueblo Chilies, Rocky Ford Cantaloupe, Rocky Mountain Oysters, and Bison short ribs.

Where can I walk around in Denver?

Denver has lots of places where you can roam, stroll, walk, trek, hike, and even drive. The most popular places to walk around Denver are Cheesman Park, Rocky Mountain Lake Park, Millennium Bridge, Cherry Creek Trail, Denver Botanic Gardens, and High Line Canal Trail.

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Fun Day Trips From Denver for Epic Colorado Adventures

Denver features iconic mountain views of the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the Mile High City is the perfect homebase to get out and experience more of Colorado’s Front Range. Need some inspiration? Read on for our suggestions on the best day trips from Denver, from the urban corridor to mountain adventures.

I’ve lived in metro Denver for almost four decades now, and my favorite thing about my city is all the possible adventures you can experience within an hour or two. While there are so many fun things to do in downtown Denver , you don’t want to miss these day trips from Denver to make even more memories in Colorado.

Read More:   Fun Things to Do in the Summer in Colorado . If you have more time, 12 Best Colorado Road Trips

One Hour or Less: Day Trips From Denver

These quick Denver day trips are perfect year-round getaways, no matter the time of year.

Arvada, Colorado: 20 minutes from Denver

I might be biased as I live in Arvada, but this urban city is a hidden gem. And travelers won’t have to drive to get here. Instead, take the G-line light rail at Denver’s Union Station, and let the conductor take you directly to Arvada. Here’s what to do in town:

• Olde Town Arvada maintains its small-town feel with its Olde Town Square, the heart of the city and where the Sunday Farmer’s Market takes place. In the summer months, kids can cool off here in the splash pad fountain.  
• Stroll the pedestrian-only streets where boutique shops sell handmade pottery, jewelry, and clothing, including our favorite, Carly’s Boutique.
• Dining options include burgers and pizza, Asian and Mexican cuisine with breweries and taverns as well.
• The grandkids never miss a chance to stop at the old-fashioned candy and ice cream shop, Scrumptious.
• Feeling creative? Stop at Into the Fire Pottery  and paint your own pottery. Firing takes 3-7 days, so be sure you have time to stop back to pick it up.
• Bring your walking shoes as Arvada is also home to 125 miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  If driving yourself, visit the Majestic View Park and Nature Cente r , with hands-on displays wildlife exhibits, kid’s activity area, and outdoor space to stretch your legs.

Golden, Colorado: 20 Minute Drive from Denver

Another family favorite is the small town of Golden, 15 miles west of Denver and part of the Front Range Urban Corridor. Golden offers a wide range of activities for all ages. These include hiking trails, biking trails, kayaking, tubing, shopping, cultural attractions, and breweries.

• Drive the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway , a 40-mile loop connecting the towns of Golden, Morrison, and Evergreen. Stop at Lookout Mountain to see Buffalo Bill’s Grave.
• Another stop on the Lariat Loop is the famous Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater with its over 250 million years old Red Rocks sandstone formations, standing 300 feet high. Hike the 1.4-mile trail for some of the best early morning views.
• Summer in Golden is the perfect time to dip your toes in Clear Creek, which runs through the town. Enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, fly fishing, and tubing.
• Self-guided walking art tours are a fun way to experience the town’s public art.
• Downtown Golden features multiple restaurants, boutique shops, and brewpubs.
• Take the Coors Brewery  tour. Book well in advance, as these guided tours sell out quickly.
• The Colorado Railroad Museum  is a kid-friendly museum for train fans of all ages.
• The rooftop patio of the Golden Mill serves up delicious food options, brews, wines, and cocktails. It also offers views of Clear Creek and Coors Brewing Company .

SheBuysTravel Tip:  The Golden Gate Canyon State Park  is perfect for an overnight camping adventure with hiking trails and fishing. On more than 12,000 acres of forest, rocky peaks, mountain views, meadows, and lakes, it is located 16 miles from Golden, featuring mountain views, and wildlife. It’s close enough to Denver to get a taste of the mountains without the long drive. It also boasts 100 miles of the Continental Divide.

Boulder, Colorado: 30 minutes from Denver

Another perfect day trip from Denver is Boulder, with its own quirky personality. Boulder also offers access to Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Downtown Boulder’s Pearl Street is its famous pedestrian mall and part of the Downtown Historic City, with unique shopping, street performers, and other activities. Be sure to visit the candy store, Rocket Fizz.
• Home to plenty of hiking and biking trails, including at the 1898 Chautauqua Park with trail access to the Flatirons.
• Boulder is also home to Celestial Seasonings, a well-known tea company. For just $5, take a behind-the-scenes tour  of the manufacturing facility.
• For a unique playground experience that also gives back to the community, stop in at Junkyard Social Club , located on East Pearl Street. This unique rebel museum, adventure playground, and cafe offers 3,500 square feet of indoor space and 6,00 square feet of fenced outdoor space. The play structures are funky art installations, including an antique airplane and giant junkyard giraffe created from rescued junkyard pieces, swing sets, and murals. To see how fun this really is, check out this Facebook Reel.

Central City & Black Hawk: 38 miles

Founded in 1859 by miners, Central City and Black Hawk are historic towns, a short scenic drive from Denver.

• Stroll the streets with many original buildings, architecture, and gold mines.
• Fans of ghosts, ghouls, and history will want to join in on the annual cemetery crawl, which starts toward the end of August, strolling through Central City’s 11 cemeteries.
• Book the Creepy Crawl during Halloween for more spooky history.
• For an adult-themed day trip, try your luck at the casinos in Central City and Black Hawk.

Idaho Springs: 40 minutes from Denver

As the closest town to Mount Evans in Clear Creek County, Idaho Springs is a scenic drive on I-70 and another of Colorado’s historic mining towns.

One of the state’s 58 fourteeners, Mt. Evans is west of Denver with access from Idaho Springs. Stretching 14,200 feet above sea level, the road to its peak is a 14-mile climb on North America’s highest paved road. Timed entry reservations  are required to access Mount Evans.

• The Mount Evans Scenic and Historic Byway (Highway 5) is usually open all the way to the summit Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and weather permitting partially open through early October. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, marmots, and other wildlife.
• On this byway, stop at the beautiful Echo Lake, part of Denver’s mountain park system, located 10,600 feet above sea level and 40 miles from Denver, and stop at the 1926 Echo Lake Lodge with a fireplace, restaurant, bar, and gift shop. The restaurant is known for its pan-fried trout.
• We often stop in Idaho Springs at one of their many restaurants when I-70 is a traffic jam. Our favorite restaurants are: Beau Jo’s, serving its famous Colorado pizza pies, and Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub, great bar food and beer.
• Learn about the city’s mining history at the family-owned Phoenix Gold Mine. Take a mine tour at Argo Mill and Tunnel. Stop by the Heritage Museum and Visitor Center, located at the beginning of Mt. Evans Scenic Byway.
• Visit to the Indiana Hot Springs Lodge (or book a room!) and soak in the healing waters of this indoor hot springs pool and cave baths.
• Make it a family adventure by booking a zipline tour and skytrek aerial course .

All Aboard: Mining Town of Georgetown, 50 minutes from Denver

Known for its Wild West and mining past, historic Georgetown, Colorado, is 45 miles west of Denver on I-70 at Exit #228, Georgetown offers the perfect mountain backdrop for a modern train ride with the Old West flavor just a short road trip away from Denver.

Known as the Silver Queen of the Rockies, this mountain town was found during the mining boom, as one of Colorado’s original mining towns.

• Explore the town, a National Historic Landmark District. The “village” offers shops, restaurants, and Victorian-era architecture.
• All aboard! Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad, one of Colorado’s first attractions way back in 1884.  Get the whole scoop here: tips for taking the kids on the Georgetown Loop .

One- to Two-Hour Day Trips from Denver

Denver day trip to rocky mountain national park & estes park.

While visiting Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park could easily turn into a 2-3 day adventure, either can be done as a day trip from Denver.

• Once you’ve visited Rocky Mountain National Park,  you’ll understand why this is America’s favorite park. It’s so popular that the reservations are required  to enter the park.
• Trail Ridge Road is known as the “highway to the sky,” and the highest continuous road in the United States. Travel the 48 miles and climb 4,000 feet in minutes across and through Rocky Mountain National Park. Fuel up in Estes Park, Colorado, and head east to Grand Lake, Colorado in the west (or vice versa). Allow 3 hours or more (depending on how often you stop).
• A year-round destination and the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is home to the haunted Stanley Hotel  and a long list of things to do. Here you’ll discover bicycle and hiking trails, shopping, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries. Check out this article for more tips on things to do in Estes Park .

SheBuysTravel Tip:  This 3-day Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary includes insider tips on how to beat the crowds and skip the NPS timed entry requirement.  

Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak Region: 90 Minutes From Denver

Colorado springs and manitou springs.

Always a popular day trip, Colorado Springs is located 70 miles south of downtown Denver. With many must-see attractions, this beautiful city is home to the Pikes Peak region including Manitou Springs and Canon City.

• Open year-round, our favorite zoo is still Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , the highest-altitude zoo in the United States.
• Perhaps the most popular attraction is Garden of the Gods , with its 300-foot rock formations with a backdrop of Pikes Peak, hiking trails, and horseback riding.
• Explore nearby historic Manitou Springs with. Stroll Manitou Avenue (Main Street) lined with boutique shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants.
• All aboard Pikes Peak Cog Railroad with a ride up, up, up to 14,000+ feet of Pikes Peak.
• Prefer to drive? Buckle up for mountain views beyond comparison and a road trip you’ll not forget.
• The littles will love a stop at The North Pole, Home to Santa’s Workshop , located at the foot of Pikes Peak. This all-season amusement park, featuring the jolly old man himself, Santa Claus.

Read More:   Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs in the Winter

Pikes Peak Region: Canon City

A day trip to Canon City will be a fun-filled and adventure-packed day, but to truly enjoy this Colorado city, an overnight stay might be warranted. From adventures at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and whitewater rafting to dinosaurs and wine tasting, be sure to add Canon City to your must-see Colorado destinations.

• Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas,” the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is located 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Home to one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, it also includes an amusement park with rides, playground, and other adventures including ziplining.
• For a different view of the Royal Gorge Bridge, ride the 1950s-era Royal Gorge Railroad underneath the bridge.
• Whitewater rafting with Echo Canyon River Expeditions is an adventure for all ages. My recent experience was a family float with my 4-year-old granddaughter, but they have rafting for all ages.
• Drive Skyline Drive, a narrow one-way-only road and a short detour, with the reward of a mountain vistas and Canon City below.
• Add wine tasting at the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, located on the ground of historic Holy Cross Abbey.

Ski Resort Towns: Day Trips from Denver

Adding ski resort towns to your day trips from Denver will add more year-round adventures to your Colorado itinerary. Interested in extending your stay in ski country? There are many fab and family-friendly ski resorts in the area.

Breckenridge, Colorado: 90 Minutes from Denver

Located in Summit County, this ski resort mountain town is called “Breck” by locals and offers year-round activities.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Breckenridge in the Summer

Vail, Colorado: 100 minutes from Denver

Winter or summer. Hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, or snowboarding. No matter the season, Vail is your ticket to an epic mountain adventure.

• Here are our tips for 15 things to do with Kids in Vail, Colorado in the Summer  including Epic Discovery, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, white water rafting, fishing, and more.
• If yours is a winter adventure, read our 18+ Fun Things to do in the Winter in Vail.

Winter Park, Colorado: 80 Minutes from Denver

Families often choose Winter Park as one of their favorite winter playgrounds, and one of the main reasons is that it’s a short drive from Denver.

Read more : Winter Park Family Friendly Place to Ski and Play

Grand Lake, Colorado: 2 Hours from Denver

Topping our family’s list of best mountain resort towns is Grand Lake and Grand County; we visit at least once a year. Whether for summer camping or winter skiing or snowboarding, this four-season destination is just two hours from Denver with affordable winter sports, scenic hikes, family-friendly restaurants, and so much more.

• As the “Western Gateway” to Rocky Mountain National Park, access the park from Grand Lake for another park adventure.
• Historic boardwalks are the first introduction to the lakeside town of Grand Lake with more than 60 shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Grand Lake offers kayaking, boat tours, fishing, and more.

Read more: 17 Fun Things to Do in Grand Lake, Colorado

Cheyenne, Wyoming: 101 Miles From Denver

Expand your Colorado adventure into Wyoming with a worthwhile day trip from Denver. Pack your cowboy boots and hat and get ready for a true Western experience. From Bison Ranch to gunslingers and rodeos, Cheyenne is a 2-hour driver and western adventure not soon forgotten.

Read all about it here:   Fun Things to Do in Cheyenne

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Denver and Colorado Holidays

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Denver holidays from

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Discover snowy peaks and LoDo treats

Virtual year-round sunshine, wide-open skies and powder-tipped peaks form an impressive frame for the mile-high city of Denver. Sitting in the highland heart of America’s Rocky Mountains, the city doesn’t just promise a gateway to adventure – with stellar skiing, cycling and hiking all within in easy reach – but serves a delicious menu of culture. From chef-own restaurants and indie breweries to a burgeoning arts scene, you’ll find it all served up within Denver’s playful urban vibe.

It may not be a surprise that Denver’s first building wasn’t a church or a house, but a saloon. The city that wears its badge as beer capital of the US, is also perhaps, one of the hippest.

Take RiNo (River North) where you’ll be tripping over – perhaps literally – its baffling collection of breweries offering anything from sours and stouts to ‘Beer Therapy’ at its Beer Spa. It’s also a sweet spot for art lovers and creative types. For a truly hipster hangout, head to the LoHi (Lower Highlands) for funky boutiques or a spot of lunch at Linger – once a mortuary, now, a restaurant. As the evening draws in, head for its buzzing centre (LoDo) where you’ll find Union Station’s chef-driven treats, bars and more.

Carefully selected Denver hotels

Best hotels in denver for all types of traveller.

Embrace the urban vibe and stay in Denver’s hotels within the beating heart of the city’s downtown. Here you’ll find the Hilton Denver City Center or the luxurious Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel , offering a year-round heated rooftop pool and easy access to nightlife on the pedestrianised 16th Street Mall. Offering sumptuous styling with dark woods and pops of marble is The Ritz-Carlton, Denver – the city’s longest running AAA Five-Diamond hotel, near to the hip Larimer Square. 

Take a drive out to Colorado’s impressive Rockies. The award-winning Viceroy Snowmass sets a palatial scene among the ski areas of Aspen, and includes a nursery, gym, year-round heated pool, and direct slope access. For families, the four-star Viewline Resort Snowmass Autograph Collection sits in the heart of Snowmass Village, close to Aspen, and offers ski in/ski out convenience.

Three-star hotels

Four-star hotels, five-star hotels.

Hilton Denver City Center

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Halcyon Hotel

£ 1069 pp

GRAND HYATT DENVER

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Denver holiday FAQs

Make the most of your denver holiday.

Whether you’re breathing in the mountain air, imbibing its array of walking or cycling trails, skiing its majestic slopes or hitting the vibe of the city’s arts and culture scene, Denver and Colorado present the best of urban and rural adventures – and a few surprises too.

What are the best things to do in Denver?

• Visit the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. This one-of-a-kind concert venue is an amphitheatre cut out of the landscape in this city park. Carved from a Martian-red backdrop of craggy cliffs the concert venue is 16 miles west of the city. Enjoy concerts under the stars from every seat of this near-10,000 capacity space.
• What’s brewing in Denver? There are more craft ales, breweries and ale appreciators here than in any other American city. The oldest, Tivoli Brewing Company, opened in 1859, while Wynkoop Brewing Company is notorious for experimenting with everything from roasted bull testicles to spicy ancho peppers, if you please. After that you might well be ready for some on-tap therapy at Denver’s Beer Spa. Visit in autumn for the annual giant Great American Beer Festival (GABF), one of the largest in the world.
• Big, brash and undeniably bold, the Rockies are one of the world’s most iconic ranges. Some peaks rise 4,000 metres, and you’ll find anything from rivers, waterfalls, alpine fields and snow-capped peaks. Take the high road to Trail Ridge Road (up to 3,600 metres) or if you prefer, you can walk with a ranger to spot elks, moose and bears. Colorado Springs is where you’ll find the stunning formations of the Garden of the Gods Park or head to Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, offering cave tours and a zip line. Seven Falls offers an impressive 55-metre waterfall or hop on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for panoramic views.
• In recent years, the arts and cultural scene in Denver has blossomed and thrived, and has seen many major hubs created. The impressive Denver Art Museum and the MCA - Museum of Contemporary Art are in the heart of downtown. The MCA was designed by British architect David Adjaye, and is an eco-friendly space for worldwide artists. Denver's creative scene is huge, with several neighbourhoods dedicated to art and creativity. See a lot of Latino influence (colourful murals and Mexican culture) in the Art District On Santa Fe, while the RiNo Art District is more aligned with contemporary galleries and street art. Don’t miss Colfax Avenue for live music and hipster culture, arthouse cinema and eclectic record and book stores.
• Aside from its red-rock amphitheatre, there’s plenty: see the Denver Center for the Performing Arts – the second-largest complex of its sort in the whole US to the November-based Denver Film Festival, displaying some 250 plus films from indies to hits. By night, explore the historic and bohemian vibe of Larimer Square, which becomes a sassy spot for dinner, local bands or stellar live performances at Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox.
• Union Station’s facelift has been so effective you’d never guess it’s 150 plus years old. Revamped in 2014, it now forms one of the city’s central bustling bases with its 12,000-square-feet atrium adorned with cocktail bars, boutiques, restaurants, indie bookstores and shops. You’ll find it in the city’s buzzing LoDo area.
• Denver’s denizens love two wheels. It’s impossible to miss them, what with 85 miles of cycling trails stretching around the city, decent bike-sharing schemes and bike hire stations generously dotted about. It’s a great and green way to explore the city’s colourful and cool districts.

What is the best ski resort to stay in near Denver?

Ski resorts in Aspen – well-heeled (or should that be well-ski booted) fans of this former Victorian mining town are often lured by its charming setting, its unashamed opulence and the chance of spotting a celebrity or two. The ski region certainly offers some challenging runs too and is made up of four main ski areas all linked by free shuttle bus: Ajax, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk (best for beginners) and Snowmass. Collectively, it’s known as Aspen Snowmass.

Ski resorts in Breckenridge – one of the more beginner-friendly areas, Breckenridge is divided into five sectors. It offers a long, sweeping nursery slope to rival many others, and the ski schools are among the best known. Its 2,908 acres of slopes offer lots to intermediates and experts too, with steeper runs above the tree line.

Its 3,000m-high resort has a Victorian-style charm (you may need to acclimatise a little) and offers bags of bars and restaurants.

Ski resorts in Vail – having turned 60 in 2022, this pensioner packs a punch as another upmarket resort. Prices for lift passes can be as steep as the slopes, but you can save by buying in advance to take advantage of being in one of the best-connected, most-varied ski areas in the US. Swish your way to its coveted north slopes for a good chance of powder snow. The resort village is vast but there’s a free shuttle, and you can experience anything from its Tirolean-style Vail village to the modern Lionshead. It offers lively apres ski and is family friendly, too.

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Low online deposits

Book early and secure your dream holiday with just a small online deposit.

24-hour helpline

We have a dedicated team on hand 24 hours a day in case of any issues.

ATOL protected

All our holidays are ATOL protected to give you complete peace of mind.

Discover more

We’ve rounded up the best destinations for your summer holidays.

Where to go this summer