The 10 Coolest Things To See And Do In Denver Colorado

Most tourists envision cowboy hats and craft beer when they think of Denver, and while neither is in short supply there, is a lot more to the Mile High City. We list our our 10 favorite things to see and do when you’re in this Colorado city.

Coors Field

A trip to Denver isn’t complete without seeing a Rockies Game at Coors Field, and even folks who don’t like baseball will have a good time here. Blue Moon Brewing Co. is set up inside the stadium, as is the Helton Burger shack. Get to the game early and head up to the Rooftop, a new feature on the upper right field deck that houses premium bars and places to eat, and offers guests a panoramic view of downtown Denver.

2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205 (303) 292-0200

1. The Source

Market

The Source

Bring an empty stomach and a full wallet for your trip to The Source. Housed in a brick foundry built in the 1880s, The Source is an artisanal market for specialty restaurants and vendors. The vendors are diverse but the one thing that keeps all of the Source’s shops in common is that they’re very trendy and exciting to explore.

3350 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216 (720) 443-1135

2. Cherry Creek Trail

Cherry Creek Trail

Biking or walking the Cherry Creek Trail is a fun way to see downtown Denver. The trail begins in Confluence Park and heads out of Denver into Douglas and Arapahoe counties. Along the way, stop at the Cherry Creek Shopping District for a quick bite and perhaps some souvenir shopping. Also on the path is the Four Mile House and Historic Park, which celebrates the pioneer days and Denver’s beginnings. For those who want to spend a day hiking, the trail eventually runs through Cherry Creek State Park, home to several good trails.

2250 15th St, Denver, CO 80202

3. Larimer Square

Larimer Square

Larimer Square is the shopping and dining center of Denver, and it is also the oldest section of the city. The square is truly an intersection of the past and present. Some shops pay homage to Denver’s past, such as the Crybaby Ranch, a retailer devoted to cowboy boots and hats. Others, such as Blue Ruby, focus on the latest fashion trends, sourcing clothes from local artisans and international designers. While there, grab a bite or a drink at any of the fine bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Larimer Square 1430 Larimer, No. 200 Denver, Colorado, 80202

4. Clyfford Still Museum

Museum

Clyfford Still is considered one of the most important painters of the 20th century, and this museum does a good job of proving why. Still wrote into his will that his whole estate be given to an American city willing to build a museum dedicated solely to his work, and in 2004, Denver decided to be that city. Completed in 2011, the museum house approximately 3,125 seminal works by Still.

5. Elitch Gardens

Park

Elitch Gardens

Most amusement parks are located outside of the city, but Denver’s Elitch Gardens are in the heart of Downtown. Elitch Gardens has two parks, one amusement and one water, so bring your swimsuit. The park hosts 12 thrill rides and plenty of options for tinier visitors and their adult companions. Enjoy a truly unique experience and go to a “Dive-In” movie at the water park. Guests can float around on rafts or splash around in the pool while enjoying a movie.

2000 Elitch Cir Denver, CO 80204 (303) 595-4386

6. Children's Museum

Bridge, Building, Museum, Park

Children’s Museum

If you take your family to Denver, visiting the Children’s Museum is an absolute must. The exhibits change frequently, but regardless of what’s going on at the museum, the kids will have a good time. Activities include building a wooden bridge to cross the the creek at Joy Park or experimenting with bubbles in the lab.

2121 Children’s Museum Drive Denver, CO 80211 303-433-7444

7. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

Concert Hall, Music Venue, Park, Theater

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a drive outside of Denver, but while you are in the Mile High City, it is worth taking the trip. The amphitheater is quite literally carved out of the Red Rocks, and at night the stars are almost enough of a light show to accompany that the historic bands who’ve played there. Even if you can’t see a concert, you should have lunch at the Ship Rock Grill or simply explore the amphitheater, which is open to the public as long as a concert isn’t going on.

8. Buffalo Bill's Museum and Grave

Museum, Park

Buffalo Bill’s Museum and Grave

Buffalo Bill’s Museum and Grave are right on the outskirts of Denver, and make for a great stop on the way to Red Rocks Park. The site of his grave is the main attraction; he requested to be buried at Lookout Mountain, which is a great place to snap a few photos of the surrounding Rockies. On display in the museum are exhibits that document the history of Buffalo Bill’s performances and Bill’s relationship with Native Americans.

987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Road, Golden, CO 80401 (303) 526-0744

A photo of the interior of Union Station

9. Union Station

Hotel

Union Station

Union Station stays true to Denver’s trend of blending the old with the new. The station is over 100 years old and was recently remodeled. However, this destination is much more than a transportation hub; it also houses a collection of restaurants and bars. If you really love the station you can book a room at the Crawford Hotel, which is also inside the station.

1701 Wynkoop Denver, CO 80202

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.