8 Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

Are you looking for a great list of things to do in Denver, Colorado? We hope this guide to Denver things to do will help you plan your trip.

Updated: November 2020. Originally published: August 2014.

About Visiting Denver, Colorado

Denver, the largest city in Colorado, is known for its world-class cultural attractions, thriving beer scene, excellent dining experience, and exciting outdoor adventure.

Also called Mile High City for sitting exactly one mile above sea level, this multifaceted metropolis has something for every tourist. Geek out in countless art, history, and science museums, drink like a local in the guided brewery tours, appreciate nature in the numerous hiking and biking trails, or spoil yourself with the unlimited shopping options!

Even without a car, you can go around Denver by taking the bus, train, MallRide (a local hybrid vehicle), or pedicab; renting a bike or a scooter; or even riding in style with horse-drawn carriage.

Exploring Denver on foot is also a great alternative as it is one of the most walkable cities in the US!

Just remember to wear your coat in winter as it gets chilly, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit in December. Summer is the opposite, with July averaging 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Our First Denver Visit

Our Rockies road trip provided my first visit to Denver. Jedd had been once, fifteen years earlier, with his high school volleyball team from Hawaii. (It was kind of funny how his teenage memory of the city differed from the reality of Denver that we encountered!)

We’re fortunate to have several friends in Denver who gave us local tips.

8 Things to Do in Denver Colorado

Let’s dive in!

1. Explore Denver Bike Paths

Denver is the perfect city for cycling aficionados or those who simply love to travel on two wheels! Home to numerous bike parks and on-street bike lanes, trails stretch west from the city all the way to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater (see more on that below).

One of the highlights of the bike trails is Cherry Creek, one of Denver’s main cycling routes, where you can find a vibrant shopping scene and numerous dining options.

Another biking path worth traversing in Denver is the South Platte River Trail which extends from Brighton to Chatfield State Park. You can discover some of the city’s history with signages along the trail explaining the human and natural history of the land, its geology, and wildlife inhabitants.

We rented B Cycles (now closed) one morning to explore along the South Platte River and the Cherry Creek bike paths from downtown. 

2. Visit Denver’s Union Station

The historic Union Station in downtown Denver is 100 years old. Recently renovated, the station now provides a bright, shiny home to Amtrak, metro, and bus transit as well as some great restaurants and retail outlets.

The beautiful space is now touted as “Denver’s Living Room.” With its hip eateries and shops, I definitely would not mind a long lay-over there.

 3. Find great reads at Tattered Cover Book Store

Another Denver icon is the Tattered Cover Bookstore, an independently owned enterprise which has expanded to multiple locations in Denver (plus satellite stores in the airport and Union Station).

This Denver icon has been around since 1971. In today’s world of big box and online retailers, it’s nice to see a classic bookstore that’s still around. 

4. Experience Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater is a one-of-a-kind music venue that was crafted into the rust-colored landscape back in the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps and Work Projects Administration.

Just half an hour from downtown, this open-air amphitheater is open to the public during the day. When we visited, there were a bunch of people using the amphitheater to exercise – running, jumping, or climbing up and down the steps, which actually looked like fun.

The Red Rock Visitor Center has interactive educational displays, a short film on its geologic and musical history, and a Hall of Fame of the performers who have played at the venue.

5. Explore Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaur Ridge is a National Natural Landmark just outside of Denver. We didn’t even realize it until we showed up at Red Rocks Amphitheater but we were literally across the street from Dinosaur Ridge.

Well-known dinosaurs were first discovered on this site in 1877. Later, dinosaur tracks from the Cretaceous Period were uncovered nearby.

Today, there’s a trail where you can see these various dinosaur excavation sites. The parks offers guided bus tours and walking tours as well a visitors center.

We decided to go by foot on our own. It’s crazy to see real dinosaur remains in person and also to think that archeologists or scientists can determine what’s what from so little.

6. Enjoy 16th Street Pedestrian Mall

Located in Downtown Denver, the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall has been the go-to place of both locals and tourists since the ‘80s. With countless retail stores, restaurants, bars, and year-round special events, you’ll never run out of things to do in this mall!

Free shuttle rides are available to bring you to every corner of the promenade.

7. Shop at Larimar Square

Tagged as Denver’s first historic district, Larimer Square is another shopping and dining destination in Denver.

This beautiful group of Victorian houses gives off a vibrant and festive atmosphere that goes well with the specialty stores, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and unique Colorado finds. The nightlife in this district is an experience on its own too.

Larimer Square has actually found itself on the National Trust for Historic Place’s list of “most endangered historic places.” At the time of this writing, it is up for sale, though tenants are still operating the shops and restaurants.

8. Dine Out in Denver

Of course, any great Denver trip includes enjoying the incredible food this city has to offer! Our friend, Jessica, founded Delicious Denver Food Tours if you’re looking for a great foodie experience.

Read on for top Denver restaurant recommendations.

Where to Eat in Denver

Denver Biscuit Company – $$ – Everything at this popular brunch spot comes on a fresh biscuit, from breakfast sandwiches to strawberry shortcake and cinnamon rolls. Worth the wait!
3237 E Colfax Ave. 

Cafe Miriam – $ – The charming restaurant serves authentic French and Moroccan dishes like crêpes, kabab, hummus, cheese, and breads. They also offer imported coffee, tea, and ice cream that are best paired with their European-style pastries.
2217 E. 21st Ave. in City Park West 

Tokyo Premium Bakery – $ – This Denver bakery offers a wide variety of freshly baked Japanese-style bread and pastries with tasty drinks to boot!
1540 S Pearl Street 

Taqueria La Familia – $ Feel right at home with this restaurant’s authentic Mexican food! Everything is made from scratch and with lots of love.
2642 W 32nd Ave

Turtle Boat – $$ – Indulge in filling but guilt-free meals with this restaurant’s personalized salads dressed with locally- and sustainably-sourced ingredients. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and soy-free options are also available.
2231 S Broadway 

Yahya’s Mediterranean Grill and Pastries – $$ – Discover exciting new flavors with this restaurant’s Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired recipes set in fine casual dining!
2207 E Colfax Ave 

The Duffeyroll Cafe – $ – Bring your family to any of this restaurant’s three locations where you can satisfy your sweet tooth with their legendary cinnamon rolls, start your day at any time with their all-day breakfast, or grab a quick bite with their hearty sandwich!
1290 S Pearl St.; 4994 East Hampden Ave.; or 5198 S. Broadway

My Brother’s Bar – $ – The oldest bar in Denver, this place really gives you the old-fashioned feel with a hearty, American menu and classic decor. Food is great and reasonably priced.

(The current restaurant owner ran a similar establishment where our Denver friends used to live in Detroit about 40 years ago!)