When it comes to cities in the United States, Denver is often overshadowed by other more popular destinations such as New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. However, what many people don’t know is that Denver is a fantastic city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. Denver is the largest city in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, and it’s home to some of the most intriguing and exciting places to visit. Moreover, it’s easy to find rooms for rent if you are planning a long stay. If you’re heading to Denver and wondering what to do, here are the top things to do in Denver that you should consider.
Colorado State Capitol Building
Located in the heart of downtown Denver, the Colorado State Capitol Building is a must-visit landmark. Built in 1894 and designed in a neoclassical style, the building stands out with its stunning architecture and impressive copper dome. Visitors can take free tours of the Capitol, during which they can view the breathtaking murals, portraits, and other artwork that adorn the walls. Make sure to stop by the Rotunda to snap a photo of the “One Mile Above Sea Level” marker, which indicates Denver’s elevation of exactly one mile.
Museum of Nature & Science
The Museum of Nature & Science is a Denver staple located in City Park. It features exhibits on paleontology, geology, wildlife, and space science. Visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits, including a giant-screen theater, planetarium, and an IMAX theater. This museum is perfect for families looking for a fun and educational day trip.
Denver Zoo
Located in City Park, the Denver Zoo houses over 4,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants. You can get up close and personal with the animals by booking a behind-the-scenes tour, attending animal shows and feedings, and touching an array of animals at the Pachyderm Building. The zoo is open all year round, and its exhibits make for great photo opportunities with friends and family.
Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a lush oasis of plants from around the world, spread over 24 acres. The gardens showcase a wide variety of plants, from high-country natives to tropical wonders. The Gardens contain 45 unique gardens and collections ranging from romantic gardens and Japanese gardens to native plants and water gardens. There are also three special exhibitions every year: the Orchid Showcase, the Butterfly Pavilion, and the Holiday Lights extravaganza.
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, and it has a vast collection of artwork from all over the world. The museum features over 70,000 works of art, including Native American art, Western art, and contemporary art. The museum offers guided tours, hands-on workshops, and interactive exhibits that will make you fall in love with art again.
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
For aviation enthusiasts, the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is a must-visit. The museum holds over 50 vintage aircrafts and spacecrafts from World War I to the present day, including fighter jets, bombers, helicopters, and replicas of famous aircrafts like the Wright Flyer and the Apollo Command Module. Visitors can tour the museum, explore the interactive exhibits, participate in virtual missions, and take a ride in a vintage plane!
Coors Field
Baseball fans can’t miss a visit to Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies. Since opening its gates in 1995, the stadium has become a beloved landmark in Denver’s LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood. On game days, Coors Field comes alive with cheering fans, delicious stadium eats, and an array of activities that cater to families and kids. Even if you’re not a big baseball fan, the experience of watching a game in this lovely stadium is one of the top things to do in Denver.
Larimer Square
Larimer Square is a historic district located in downtown Denver. It’s home to some of Denver’s most exciting shopping, dining, and nightlife options. You can find a diverse range of shops and boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and unique bars, making it ideal for those who want to explore the city’s contemporary scene. The square also hosts a variety of events, such as the Denver Chalk Art Festival, Denver County Fair, and Oktoberfest.
Denver Aquarium
The Denver Aquarium is an indoor experience that will delight visitors of all ages. The aquarium features over a million gallons of underwater exhibits, where visitors can see everything from sea turtles and giant octopuses to sharks and fish. The highlight is the interactive Stingray Reef, where visitors can touch and feed stingrays. The aquarium also offers animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
16th Street Mall
A shopping and dining paradise, the 16th Street Mall is a bustling pedestrian promenade located at the heart of downtown Denver. Stretching for a mile from the Union Station to the Civic Center, the street is lined with more than 200 retail shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants. While exploring the 16th Street Mall, you’ll also come across numerous street performers and musicians who add to the lively and festive atmosphere.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Red Rocks Park, and Amphitheater is the crown jewel of Denver parks. With its towering red rocks, stunning views, and world-renowned outdoor Amphitheater, the park offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can hike around the park’s numerous trails, take a yoga class at the Amphitheater, or enjoy a concert under the stars. Make sure to visit the Visitor Center to learn about the history of the park and its unique geological formations.
Conclusion
Denver is a vibrant city filled with endless things to do and explore. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, art museum, baseball game, or shopping extravaganza – there’s something for everyone in Denver! The city offers an array of attractions, from the Denver Art Museum and Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum to Larimer Square and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something memorable in Denver!
