Key Takeaways:
- Denver offers a wide variety of year-round activities, making it the perfect destination for all types of travelers.
- Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or local food, Denver has something for everyone throughout the year.
- From stunning parks and museums to the lively downtown area and surrounding natural beauty, Denver is a vibrant city for all seasons.
Table of Contents:
- Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens
- Visit the Denver Art Museum
- Stroll Around City Park and the Denver Zoo
- Discover the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
- Enjoy a Day in Washington Park
- Attend a Concert or Event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
- Walk Through the LoDo District
- Take a Brewery Tour in Denver
- Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
- Experience the Denver Public Library
Denver, Colorado, often called the “Mile-High City,” is known for its stunning scenery, thriving arts scene, and vibrant culture. Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the city blends urban life with easy access to the outdoors. Whether you love hiking, music, art, or simply exploring local neighborhoods, Denver offers year-round activities for all interests. The city is famous for its craft beer scene, expansive parks, and unique cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure or relaxation in a city surrounded by natural beauty.
1. Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a peaceful and beautiful 23-acre garden located in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of plant species, from native Colorado plants to exotic species from around the world. The garden also features stunning landscapes, including water features, sculptures, and walking paths, making it a perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Throughout the year, the gardens host seasonal events, such as plant sales, educational workshops, and seasonal light displays.
Beyond the beauty of the plants and flowers, the Botanic Gardens also offers a chance to learn about horticulture, sustainability, and conservation efforts. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and families alike to spend time outdoors while appreciating the diversity of plants in a serene environment. Whether you’re there to admire the beauty of the flowers in bloom or to attend one of its many events, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a great place to visit year-round.
2. Visit the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city, offering a collection that spans thousands of years of art history. The museum is home to more than 70,000 works of art, including Native American art, contemporary pieces, and international art collections. Its iconic architecture and rotating exhibits ensure that there’s always something new and exciting to explore. The museum is also known for its interactive exhibits, which encourage visitors to engage with the art in a fun and educational way.
With its central location and diverse collection, the Denver Art Museum is an ideal destination for art lovers. The museum also offers art classes, special events, and lectures, making it an excellent spot for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of art and culture. Whether you’re a long-time art enthusiast or just beginning to explore the art world, the Denver Art Museum provides a memorable experience for all.
3. Stroll Around City Park and the Denver Zoo
City Park is one of Denver’s largest and most beloved parks, offering a great space for outdoor activities and relaxation. It features a beautiful lake, scenic walking paths, and expansive green spaces, perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park also houses the Denver Zoo, one of the oldest and most visited zoos in the country. Home to over 3,500 animals, the Denver Zoo offers a chance to get up close to wildlife from around the world, including elephants, lions, and endangered species.
City Park also provides a variety of recreational opportunities, such as paddle boating, bike rentals, and tennis courts. The park’s wide open spaces make it ideal for outdoor sports, while the lake provides a peaceful setting for relaxing or watching the sunset. Whether you’re visiting the zoo, enjoying a sunny day in the park, or simply exploring the green spaces, City Park is a great place to spend the day year-round.
4. Discover the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is an educational and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. The museum features exhibits on a wide range of topics, from dinosaurs and space exploration to human biology and ancient cultures. Kids will especially enjoy the hands-on exhibits, where they can participate in interactive activities and learn about science through play. The museum is also home to an IMAX theater and a planetarium, offering opportunities to catch science-themed films and shows.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science hosts traveling exhibits and educational programs that keep things fresh and exciting for returning visitors. Whether you’re exploring the depths of space or walking through a dinosaur exhibit, the museum provides a fascinating look at the natural world and our place in it. It’s an ideal place for families to learn and have fun while engaging with science.
5. Enjoy a Day in Washington Park
Washington Park, or “Wash Park,” is another of Denver’s premier parks, offering a mix of outdoor activities, gardens, and walking paths. The park is home to beautiful flower gardens, scenic lakes, and several sports facilities, including tennis courts and baseball fields. Visitors can rent pedal boats on the park’s lake, enjoy a relaxing walk or jog around the park’s trails, or simply relax on the expansive lawns. The park is popular year-round, with people enjoying the outdoors no matter the season.
The park also has two large and beautiful gardens, including a sunken garden filled with colorful flowers and a large, well-maintained area for picnics. Whether you’re out for a leisurely afternoon, participating in a fitness class, or attending a community event, Washington Park is a great place to connect with nature in the middle of the city. The park’s diverse offerings make it a year-round favorite for both locals and visitors.
6. Attend a Concert or Event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic and scenic live music venues in the world. Located just outside of Denver, this open-air amphitheater is set against breathtaking red rock formations, creating a unique backdrop for concerts, festivals, and events. Known for its excellent acoustics and stunning views, Red Rocks hosts a variety of performances year-round, from major concerts by famous artists to yoga sessions and film screenings. Whether you’re attending a show or simply exploring the area, the beauty of the venue and surrounding landscape makes it a must-see.
The venue is not only famous for its music performances but also for its hiking opportunities. There are several trails around the amphitheater that offer incredible views of the surrounding plains and mountains, making it a great spot to explore on foot. Red Rocks is an essential destination for any visitor to Denver, offering the perfect combination of natural beauty and entertainment.
7. Walk Through the LoDo District
The Lower Downtown (LoDo) District is one of Denver’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods, filled with beautiful architecture, trendy shops, restaurants, and bars. Known for its cobblestone streets and restored 19th-century buildings, LoDo offers a unique mix of old and new, where visitors can enjoy a range of activities year-round. Whether you’re strolling through the area, dining at a local restaurant, or exploring art galleries, LoDo is a lively place to visit.
LoDo is also home to Coors Field, where you can catch a baseball game during the season, and Union Station, a beautifully restored landmark that now houses restaurants, shops, and a boutique hotel. With its charming atmosphere, historic buildings, and lively nightlife, LoDo offers a fantastic glimpse into Denver’s past and present. It’s the perfect place to walk around, grab a bite, and take in the energy of the city.
8. Take a Brewery Tour in Denver
Denver is known as the “Napa Valley of Beer,” thanks to its thriving craft beer scene. The city boasts over 150 breweries, offering a diverse selection of beers ranging from lagers and stouts to IPAs and sour ales. A brewery tour is a fun and informative way to explore the city’s beer culture, where you can sample local brews, learn about the brewing process, and visit iconic breweries such as Wynkoop Brewing Company and Great Divide Brewing Co.
Many breweries offer guided tours, tastings, and food pairings, giving visitors the chance to learn about the art of brewing while enjoying some of the best beers in the country. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply enjoy trying new things, a brewery tour in Denver provides an authentic taste of the city’s craft beer culture. It’s an experience that’s perfect for beer lovers and a fun way to explore the city’s local scene.
9. Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
The Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is a fascinating destination for those interested in aviation and space exploration. Located at the former Lowry Air Force Base, the museum features an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and aviation artifacts. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including historic warplanes, military jets, and a replica of the Apollo 11 command module. The museum also offers interactive displays that give visitors a hands-on experience with aviation technology and history.
Beyond the aircraft exhibits, the museum also hosts educational programs, special events, and guest speakers, making it an excellent stop for anyone interested in learning more about the science and history of flight. With its impressive collection and immersive experiences, Wings Over the Rockies is a great way to explore Denver’s connection to the world of aviation. It’s a perfect family-friendly attraction that brings both history and science to life.
10. Experience the Denver Public Library
The Denver Public Library is a cultural hub and a fantastic destination for visitors looking to engage with local history and culture. The library offers a variety of exhibits, events, and public programs throughout the year, including author talks, workshops, and children’s story hours. The library’s main branch, located in the heart of downtown, is housed in a stunning building designed by architect Michael Graves, with an inviting interior that encourages exploration.
The library also has an impressive collection of books, archives, and historical resources that focus on the city’s history, culture, and development. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read, attending a public event, or exploring the library’s exhibits, it’s a great place to connect with the community and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings. The Denver Public Library provides a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages and interests, making it a unique and enriching stop during your visit.
What to Do if You Have Kids?
Denver is a family-friendly city with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained year-round. The Denver Zoo and Denver Botanic Gardens are both fantastic destinations for families, offering opportunities to explore nature and wildlife. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science provides interactive exhibits that engage young minds, while the Children’s Museum of Denver offers hands-on exhibits and creative play spaces. If your kids love outdoor adventure, visit Washington Park or take a stroll through the many city trails and parks. Denver’s diverse attractions make it an ideal place to create family memories and offer fun for all ages.
Where Can I Find Free Events in Denver Colorado Taking Place This Weekend?
If you’re looking for free events in Denver this weekend, be sure to check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. This tool helps you discover free local events happening around the city, from outdoor concerts and public art exhibitions to community festivals and farmers’ markets. Whether you want to explore local culture, enjoy live music, or participate in outdoor activities, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to find free events and activities happening in Denver.
Using this tool, you can easily plan your weekend around the many free offerings in the city, ensuring a fun and budget-friendly experience. With so many exciting events taking place throughout the year, Denver has no shortage of free things to enjoy, whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a local.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Denver
Denver is a city that offers something for everyone, from its breathtaking outdoor spaces and scenic trails to its vibrant arts and cultural scene. Whether you’re hiking through the Rockies, enjoying a local brewery, or experiencing the city’s museums and parks, Denver has a diverse range of attractions that can be enjoyed year-round. With its perfect combination of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and friendly atmosphere, Denver is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore a dynamic and welcoming city. Whether you’re spending a weekend or a week, Denver guarantees an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
