Denver, the capital city of Colorado, is a vibrant and charming destination that offers visitors a wealth of experiences and attractions. The downtown area, with its numerous zip codes, is the heart of the city and a hub of activity. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, Denver has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Union Station
Union Station, the city’s historic train station, has been transformed into a bustling transportation hub and entertainment destination. Visitors can grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or bars, shop at local boutiques, or take a train to explore the surrounding areas.
Larimer Square
Larimer Square is a charming block of historic buildings that has been transformed into a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can explore local boutiques or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that offer everything from farm-to-table cuisine to classic pub fare.
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a world-class museum that showcases a diverse collection of art from around the world. Visitors can explore galleries filled with everything from contemporary art to ancient artifacts and sculptures.
Hidden Gems
City Park
City Park is a hidden oasis in the heart of downtown Denver. The park covers over 300 acres and features a lake, playgrounds, tennis courts, and picnic areas. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
The Money Museum
The Money Museum, located in the Denver Federal Reserve Bank, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a fascinating look at the history of money. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of currency, learn about counterfeiting, and even see a real gold bar.
The Molly Brown House Museum
The Molly Brown House Museum is a historic home that was once owned by Margaret “Molly” Brown, a survivor of the Titanic. Visitors can take a tour of the beautifully restored home and learn about the life of this fascinating woman.
Food Scene
Mercantile Dining & Provision
Mercantile Dining & Provision is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also features a market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut is a quirky doughnut shop that offers a wide variety of unique flavors, including the famous Bacon Maple Bar. The shop is open 24 hours a day and is a must-visit for any doughnut lover.
The Kitchen
The Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a menu of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also features a community bar where visitors can enjoy craft cocktails and local beers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Many of Denver’s museums offer free admission on certain days of the week. The Denver Art Museum, for example, is free on the first Saturday of every month.
B-cycle
B-cycle is Denver’s bike-sharing program that allows visitors to rent bikes for a small fee. The program has over 80 stations throughout the city, making it easy to explore Denver on two wheels.
Happy Hour
Many of Denver’s restaurants and bars offer happy hour specials that can help visitors save money on food and drinks. Check out local favorites like Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen or Rioja for great deals.
Outdoor Adventures
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning natural wonder located just a short drive from Denver. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, take a scenic drive, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many picnic areas.
Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park is a beautiful park that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can swim, boat, fish, or hike along the park’s many trails.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is a beautiful park that features stunning red rock formations and a world-famous outdoor amphitheater. Visitors can hike through the park or catch a concert at the amphitheater.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Children’s Museum of Denver
The Children’s Museum of Denver is a fun and interactive museum that offers a wide range of exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. From a bubble room to a fire station exhibit, there’s something for everyone.
The Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is a fun and educational destination that offers visitors a chance to see a wide range of animals from around the world. From tigers to penguins, there’s something for everyone at the zoo.
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park is a fun-filled destination that offers a wide range of rides and attractions for the whole family. From roller coasters to water slides, there’s something for everyone.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city that features a wide range of plants and flowers from around the world. Visitors can explore the Gardens on their own or take a guided tour.
The Molly Brown Summer House
The Molly Brown Summer House is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to explore the summer home of Margaret “Molly” Brown. The house is located just a short drive from Denver and is a great way to escape the city for a few hours.
The Tattered Cover Bookstore
The Tattered Cover Bookstore is a beloved Denver institution that offers visitors a chance to browse through an extensive collection of books and enjoy a cup of coffee in the cozy cafe.
Natural Wonders
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a stunning natural wonder located just a short drive from Denver. The park features towering red rock formations and numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique and beautiful destination that features towering sand dunes and stunning mountain views. Visitors can hike through the dunes or enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many picnic areas.
The Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two stunning peaks located just a short drive from Denver. Visitors can hike to the top of the peaks or enjoy a picnic in the surrounding landscape.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Cruise Room
The Cruise Room is a historic bar located in the Oxford Hotel that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and enjoy a classic cocktail in an Art Deco setting.
Avanti Food & Beverage
Avanti Food & Beverage is a unique food hall that features a wide range of local vendors and a rooftop patio that offers stunning views of the city.
The 1up
The 1up is a fun-filled arcade bar that offers visitors a chance to play classic arcade games while enjoying a cold beer or cocktail.
Local Markets
The Denver Central Market
The Denver Central Market is a food hall that features a wide range of local vendors and a cozy seating area where visitors can enjoy their food.
The Cherry Creek Farmers Market
The Cherry Creek Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The market features a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
The South Pearl Street Farmers Market
The South Pearl Street Farmers Market is a fun and lively market that features a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visitors can also enjoy live music and other entertainment.
Beaches and Mountains
Boulder Creek
Boulder Creek is a beautiful destination located just a short drive from Denver. The creek offers visitors a chance to swim, fish, or simply relax in the beautiful mountain setting.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is a stunning destination located just a short drive from Denver. The park features beautiful mountain views and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Bear Creek Lake Park
Bear Creek Lake Park is a beautiful park located just a short drive from Denver. The park features a lake where visitors can swim, boat, or fish, as well as numerous hiking and biking trails.
Cultural Immersion
The Denver Botanic
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