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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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