Disclosure: This website may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support is appreciated!
SHARE
Many of the best things to do in Denver involve getting outside.
pawel.gaul/Getty Images
As someone who has lived in Colorado for years, I know of lots of great things to do in Denver.
I recommend checking out Denver’s many concert venues, museums, and restaurants.
If you’re staying in the city, I suggest taking a day trip to Colorado Springs for great hiking.
As someone who has lived in Colorado for five years, I know Denver is more than just a place to fly in and out of on your way to the mountains. Colorado’s capital city represents a lot of what makes this state so special.
Here are the best things to do in Denver for first-time visitors.
Spend time wandering around the Denver Botanic Gardens.
I love visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Zanny Merullo Steffgen
The Denver Botanic Gardens are a true oasis in the middle of the city. It’s easy to spend a few hours wandering the grounds. Here, visitors can find themed gardens, seasonal events, and both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Each section feels completely unique — my favorite is the peaceful Japanese garden.
Check out Denver’s museums and indoor attractions.
There’s so much to do at the Denver Downtown Aquarium.
AlessandraRC/Shutterstock
One of my favorite ways to spend a chilly or rainy day in the city is by visiting museums and indoor attractions.
For example, the immersive Meow Wolf experience is a breathtaking multi-media exhibit that brings visitors into a dream world of interactive art.
For a unique experience, visit the Museum of Illusions for holograms, stereograms, and optical illusions of all kinds. If you’re looking for a more traditional museum experience, I recommend checking out the Denver Art Museum.
Another great indoor option is the Denver Downtown Aquarium. Here, visitors can eat in a restaurant surrounded by fish tanks, learn about local and international marine life, snorkel or scuba dive with sharks, and catch a mermaid performance.
See a show at one of Denver’s many concert venues.
Ball arena is a great place to see a show.
Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock
Denver has some amazing concert venues like the historic Paramount Theatre and the Mission Ballroom, which was decorated by local artists.
Big-name musicians and comedians come to venues like the Ball Arena (where the Denver Nuggets play) or the Bellco Theater, which is inside the Denver Convention Center.
In the summer, attending a concert at the nearby Red Rocks Amphitheater is a must.
Take in the art in the RiNo district.
The River North (RiNo) Arts District has lots of galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Juli Scalzi/Shutterstock
The River North (RiNo) Arts District is a great place to spend an afternoon in Denver.
Each alleyway in this neighborhood has its own street art, and there are plenty of galleries, shops, restaurants, and events to check out.
The first Friday of each month in RiNo is especially fun with gallery openings, live music, and lots of local art for sale.
Hang out at the newly renovated Union Station.
Union Station is home to shops, restaurants, and bars.
Gerald A. DeBoer/Shutterstock
Denver’s Union Station was originally constructed in the 20th century, but some recent renovations have completely transformed the building.
Now, it’s one of the coolest places to hang out in the city, complete with an open-seating area, shops, restaurants, bars, and, of course, the train.
Take a day trip to Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods is a stunning free park in Colorado Springs.
Oleg Kovtun Hydrobio/Shutterstock
There are many great options for day trips from Denver, but my favorite is probably Colorado Springs, which is about an hour south of the city.
While in Colorado Springs for the day, visitors can hike or drive up Pikes Peak, visit the striking (and free) Garden of the Gods national natural landmark, or check out the well-preserved Old Colorado City.
Spend the day in City Park.
There’s so much to do in City Park.
miroslav_1/Getty Images
Denver’s City Park is no ordinary urban green space — it offers some of the best skyline and mountain views in Denver.
It’s also home to the Denver Zoo and the family-friendly Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
While in the park, you can wander past pretty lakes or even play a round of golf. Lots of Denver residents hang out here when the weather is nice.
This article was originally published by Zanny Merullo Steffgen at All Content from Business Insider – Read this article and more at (https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-denver-first-time-visitors-from-colorado-local).
General Content Disclaimer
The content on this website, including articles generated by artificial intelligence or syndicated from third-party sources, is provided for informational purposes only. We do not own the rights to all images and have not independently verified the accuracy of all information presented. Opinions expressed are those of the original authors and do not necessarily reflect our views. Reader discretion is advised, as some content may contain sensitive, controversial, or unverified information. We are not responsible for user-generated content, technical issues, or the accuracy of external links. Some content may be sponsored or contain affiliate links, which will be identified accordingly. By using this website, you agree to our privacy policy. For concerns, including copyright infringement (DMCA) notices, contact us at info@texasnews.app.
