Things to do in Denver
Late spring and early fall bring mild days, low humidity, and Denver's famous 300 days of sun. Summer is warm with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; winter is cold and snowy but bright.
Best months: May, June, September, October
What is worth your time in Denver
Red Rocks Park and AmphitheatreDo not miss
A natural sandstone amphitheatre and park with trails and one of the world's most stunning concert venues.
Nature · 2.3 hr4.9
Denver Botanic GardensDo not miss
24 acres of themed gardens, a tropical conservatory, and a celebrated alpine collection in the heart of the city.
Park · 2 hr4.8
Clyfford Still MuseumDo not miss
An intimate, light-filled museum devoted entirely to one Abstract Expressionist master, next to the Art Museum.
Museum · 1.4 hr4.7
Denver Art MuseumDo not miss
A landmark museum with a renowned Indigenous Arts collection in two striking buildings by Gio Ponti and Daniel Libeskind.
Museum · 2.8 hr4.7
Denver Museum of Nature and ScienceDo not miss
Dinosaurs, an IMAX, a planetarium, and a top-floor terrace with a sweeping view of the Rockies over City Park.
Museum · 3.3 hr4.7
Colorado State CapitolDo not miss
Climb to the gold-leaf dome and stand on the step that is exactly one mile high above sea level.
Landmark · 1.1 hr4.6
RiNo Art DistrictDo not miss
River North's warehouse district bursts with massive murals, breweries, food halls, and the city's best street art.
Neighborhood · 2.3 hr4.6
Larimer SquareDo not miss
Denver's oldest and most charming block of Victorian storefronts, string lights, restaurants, and boutiques.
Historic Site · 1.1 hr4.5
16th Street MallDo not miss
A mile-long pedestrian promenade with a free shuttle, shops, cafes, and the spine of downtown.
Neighborhood · 1.1 hr4.2
Denver Union StationDo not miss
A beautifully restored 1914 Beaux-Arts hall that is now Denver's living room, with bars, dining, and the airport train.
Historic Site · 1.4 hr
Denver Performing Arts Complex
One of the largest performing-arts centers in the country, under a soaring glass galleria.
Cultural Experience · 2.3 hr4.8
Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art
A jewel-box of mid-century modern design and decorative arts, salon-hung floor to ceiling.
Museum · 1.3 hr4.8
Big Blue Bear (I See What You Mean)
The 40-foot blue bear peering into the convention center, Denver's most photographed sculpture.
Landmark · 20 min4.7
Confluence Park
Where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte, Denver's birthplace, now a spot for tubing, wading, and trails.
Park · 53 min4.7
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Denver sits at 5,280 feet; hydrate well and ease into altitude before strenuous hikes.
- The 16th Street Mall shuttle and the A-Line train from the airport make the core car-free.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; plan outdoor stops for the morning.
- The sun is intense at altitude even in winter; wear sunscreen year-round.