50 Things To Do In Denver in 2023

What’s special about this place?

Located at 18300 W Alameda Pkwy in Morrison, just under 17 miles west of Denver, is an 868-acre park that stands 6,450 feet above sea level.

A popular venue for concerts and film festivals, the park features an open-air amphitheater built right into a rock structure. The park also features pine tree-speckled hiking trails, unique sandstone monoliths, meadows, a variety of wildlife habitats, and dinosaur fossils!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers of all levels, movie fans, music fans, nature lovers, and anyone with a passion for archaeology and geology!

What to do here?

Explore Red Rocks Park.  Take a walk through its hiking trails, and check out the park’s thriving animal and plant life.

Check out the fossils at Red Rocks, such as dinosaur tracks, ancient mollusks, and remnants of a 40-foot sea serpent. If you’re up for it, attend a concert and/or a film festival held in Red Rocks!

Best time to visit

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is open daily, from 9 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to explore the park on weekdays to avoid large crowds. That said, as it is one of Colorado’s most popular tourist spots, expect it to be at least a little bit busy at all times.

Learn more about Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, the Denver Art Museum is an art museum that features over 70,000 works of global art, including African art, architecture and design, Asian art, modern and contemporary art, and American Indian art.

It is one of the largest museums between Chicago and the West Coast!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Denver Art Museum is ideal for families, artists and art aficionados, and for tourists of all ages who want to immerse themselves in some of the largest collections of American Indian art and Western American art.

What to do here?

Take a self-guided tour through the Denver Art Museum. Check out its current exhibitions, such as The 19th Century in European and American Art exhibit, and Simphiwe Ndzube’s Oracles of the Pink Universe.

Don’t forget to check out the pieces in its permanent collection, such as the objects from the museum’s Indigenous Arts of North America.

Best time to visit

The Denver Art Museum is open daily, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to stop by the museum when it opens at 10 AM, so you have more time to explore the museum’s massive collections!

Learn more about the Denver Art Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1430 Larimer Street in Downtown Denver, Larimer Square is the oldest commercial block in Denver and is known as “the block where Denver began.”

Replete with historic buildings, Larimer Square is also home to some of Denver’s best dining, shopping and nightlife spots!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Larimer Square is ideal for families, foodies, and tourists looking to explore Denver’s downtown history while doing some shopping!

As Denver’s first local historic district, Larimer Square is a great starting point to any tourist’s Denver adventure!

What to do here?

Tour Larimer Square. Check out some of Denver’s best restaurants. Have some contemporary Mediterranean dishes at Rioja, and try the innovative Mexican fare at Tamayo.

Go shopping for souvenirs at Milly Rose, and get your outdoor gear and clothing from Mammut! Don’t forget to take pictures of all the historic buildings in Larimer Square!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Larimer Square largely depends on your itinerary, as store hours may vary. That said, for the full Larimer Square experience, we suggest you tour the historic block both during the day and at night!

Learn more about Larimer Square here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2300 Steele St, the Denver Zoo is an 84-acre zoo. An active member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Denver Zoo houses over 3,500 specimens representing 550 unique species all over the world.

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular paid attractions in the Denver metropolitan area, and is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to the Denver Zoo is ideal for families, wildlife conservationists, and animal lovers of all ages.

The Denver Zoo is committed to providing its guests with an intimate, inspiring and informative first-hand experience with the wonders of nature!

What to do here?

Explore the Denver Zoo. Check out the zoo’s Tropical Discovery and observe Komodo dragons, tree frogs, and crocodiles in their natural environment.

Stop by the zoo’s state-of-the-art Animal Hospital to see how medical care is being administered to the zoo’s animals.

Check out the zoo’s award-winning Predator Ridge, and marvel at the African lions in a five-acre area that evokes the varied landscapes of the African savanna.

Best time to visit

The Denver Zoo is open daily. 8:30 AM to 5 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 8:30 AM to 7 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

While it’s almost always a little busy, it’s best to visit the Denver Zoo during weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Denver Zoo here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1001 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver, the 16th Street Mall is a mile-long pedestrian and transit mall that’s home to over 300 locally owned/chain stores, over 50 restaurants, and the Denver Pavilions.

With a convenient round the clock free shuttle bus service, the 16th Street Mall is one of the best places for shopping in Denver!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

16th Street Mall is ideal for families and tourists looking to do a little shopping. As the mall is frequented by locals and tourists alike, it’s also ideal for tourists who want to do some people watching!

What to do here?

Spend a day at Denver’s 16th Street Mall. Go shopping at the Denver Pavilions. Grab a cup of coffee and a quick bite at the Corner Bakery Cafe.

For lunch, have some of the mouthwatering burgers at 5280 Burger Bar. Have a few beers at Rock Bottom Brewery.

Best time to visit

The 16 Street Mall is open 24/7. As store hours may vary, the best time to visit the mall really depends on your itinerary.

For the full experience, it’s best to spend at least a good half day here!

Learn more about 16th Street Mall here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1701 Bryant St, Empower Field at Mile High is an American football stadium the encompasses a total of 1.8 million square feet!

Home to the Denver Broncos, the Empower Field at Mile High provides unobstructed views for 76,125 fans on five levels of seating, including 8,200 club seats and 144 luxury suites.

While primarily used for football games, the stadium has held several concerts.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to the Empower Field at Mile High is ideal for families and American football fans of all ages. It’s also ideal for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Denver’s sports culture!

What to do here?

Catch a Denver Broncos home game at the Empower Field at Mile High. Take a guided tour through the stadium, and check out the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame and learn about Denver’s rich sports history!

Best time to visit

The Empower Field at Mile High is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

The best time to visit the stadium really depends on what event you’re planning to attend. That said, it’s best to get to the stadium at least an hour before your event starts.

Learn more about the Empower Field here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6715 W Colfax Ave in Lakewood, just under 8 miles west of Denver, Casa Bonita is a Mexican-themed “eatertainment” restaurant that is more amusement park than restaurant.

A designated historical Lakewood landmark, it features strolling mariachis, a small puppet theater, a 30-foot waterfall with cliff divers, and a magic theater.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Considered by some locals as Denver’s little Disneyland, Casa Bonita is ideal for families and tourists travelling with children. As it is frequently featured in the hit show South Park, a trip to Casa Bonita is also ideal for fans of the show!

What to do here?

Take a guided tour through Casa Bonita. Check out the 52,000-square-foot facility and learn about the history and urban legends connected to Casa Bonita.

Check out the facility’s quasi-Mexican, Spanish and Moorish architecture in all its glory. Don’t forget to try some of their food and famous margaritas!

Best time to visit

As of this writing, Casa Bonita’s restaurant is closed due to the COVID crisis (with plans of reopening by September 2021).

That said, Casa Bonita is currently offering free guided tours of their facility. It’s best to inquire as to the tour schedules ahead of time and plan your Denver trip itinerary accordingly!

Learn more about Casa Bonita here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1000 Osage St, The Buckhorn Exchange is a historic steakhouse and American frontier museum. Having opened in 1893, it is Denver’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.

The Buckhorn houses a variety of Old West memorabilia, such as a rare 500-piece collection of mounted animals and trophy heads, and a 125-piece gun collection.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Buckhorn Exchange is ideal for American history nerds, and tourists who want to get a feel of what Denver was like in its early days.

Known for their exotic menu items such as rattlesnake and Rocky Mountain oysters (deep-fried bull testicles), The Buckhorn Exchange is also ideal for adventurous foodies!

What to do here?

Try some of The Buckhorn Exchange’s specials, such as their Big Steak and High Plains Buffalo Prime Rib.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the exotic items on their menu, such as their Rocky Mountain Oysters, their Boneless Rattlesnake, and their Fried Alligator Tail.

Don’t forget to check out the restaurant’s unique collection of trophy heads that line its walls!

Best time to visit

The Buckhorn Exchange is open daily. 5 PM to 9 PM Monday through Thursday, and 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM Friday through Sunday. To make sure you get a table, it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time!

Learn more about The Buckhorn Exchange here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2999 Co Rd 53 in Keenesburg, just over 40 miles northeast of Denver, The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a 789-acre animal sanctuary.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary specializes in rescuing and caring for large predators which are being ill-treated, for which their owners can no longer care, or which might otherwise be euthanized.

The sanctuary is currently home to over 550 lions, tigers, bears, wolves and other rescued animals!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, animal lovers of all ages, and tourists looking for an animal shelter/sanctuary that is focused on caring for large predators.

What to do here?

Explore the 789-acre facility. Catch a tiger splashing in a pool. Watch mountain lions, coyotes and jaguars lounging in open grasslands. Have a picnic at the sanctuary’s observation decks, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is open daily, from 9 AM to 7 PM. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the sanctuary on Sundays and Mondays.

Moreover, if you’re visiting during the summer months, it’s best to stop by the sanctuary late in the afternoon, as in the summer, most of the animals tend to sleep during the day!

Learn more about The Wild Animal Sanctuary here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at S. Downing St. & E. Louisiana Ave., Washington Park is a 155-acre urban park.

It features ten tennis courts, a number of hiking and biking trails, two playgrounds, two lakes, two flower gardens, and a recreation center. Washington Park serves as a center for all kinds of social activities, and is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Washington Park is ideal for families, joggers, bicyclists, fitness enthusiasts of all ages, nature lovers, and tourists who want to escape downtown Denver’s hustle and bustle.

What to do here?

Spend a day at Washington Park. Go hiking/biking through some of its trails. Rent out a boathouse at Washington Park’s Smith Lake. Check out the park’s floral gardens that feature over 15,000 flower varieties, and don’t forget to take pictures.

Best time to visit

Washington Park is open daily, from sunrise to sunset. The best time to visit the park largely depends on your itinerary. It’s generally recommended to spend at least a few hours here!

What’s special about this place?

One of Denver’s largest and most vibrant transit and transportation hubs, South Broadway, or SoBo, as locals affectionately call it, is a historic Denver neighborhood.

SoBo features an eclectic mix of boutique shops, unique eateries, clothing stores, bookstores. It is also home to Denver’s famous Antique Row and Green Mile. Some of the attractions in SoBo are mentioned separately on this list.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

SoBo is one of Denver’s best shopping destinations, especially if you’re into antiques and quirky souvenirs.

It’s ideal for families and tourists looking for a more offbeat shopping experience. It’s also great for tourists looking to explore Denver’s cannabis culture.

What to do here?

Tour the entire South Broadway neighborhood. Browse its quirky shops and art galleries. Stop by for a few drinks at SoBo’s Declaration Brewing Company, and check out vintage clothing stores like Regal Vintage.

If you’re up for it, take a walk through the neighborhood’s Green Mile and check out some of Denver’s best dispensaries.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood depends on your itinerary and how thoroughly you want to explore SoBo.

If you want to hunt for the best bargains, it’s best to start your trip early and spend at least a few hours in the neighborhood!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1701 Wynkoop St in the mezzanine of Denver’s Union Station, The Cooper Lounge is an upscale bar that pays homage to the era of chic cocktail lounges.

The Cooper Lounge features a collection of unique cocktails and an extensive wine list, as well as inspiring views of downtown Denver!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Cooper Lounge is ideal for tourists traveling with friends and tourists looking for a more upscale drinking experience in Denver. Like most drinking spots, it also provides a great way for tourists to mingle with locals.

What to do here?

Imbibe in style and try some of The Cooper Lounge’s signature cocktails, such as the Cooper Lounge 50:50 Gin Martini and the Cooper Lounge House Old Fashioned.

Enjoy the view of downtown Denver and Union Station’s Great Hall, and if you’re up for it, try and mingle with the locals and/or fellow tourists at the bar!

Best time to visit

The Cooper Lounge is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 4 PM to 12 AM. To make sure you and your friends are accommodated, it’s best to make a reservation at least a week ahead of time!

Learn more about The Cooper Lounge here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2001 Colorado Blvd within Denver’s City Park, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a 716,000-square-foot municipal natural history and science museum.

The museum features a variety of permanent exhibits, a 125-seat planetarium, and an IMAX theater. The museum also houses over 4.3 million artifacts and specimens, and less than 1 percent of this are on display!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is ideal for families, nature and natural science lovers of all ages, and tourists who are eager to learn about Denver’s and the Colorado region’s natural history.

What to do here?

Explore the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Check out its permanent exhibits. Check out dinosaur fossils at the Prehistoric Journey exhibit, and check out the exquisite gem sculptures of Vasily Konovalenko at the museum’s Konovalenko: Gem Carvings of Russian Folk Life exhibit.

Catch a film or two at the museum’s IMAX theater, and try to search for some of the museum’s famous hidden “treasures.”

Best time to visit

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is open daily. 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday through Thursday, and 9 AM to 9 PM on Fridays. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the museum on weekdays!

Learn more about the Denver Museum of Nature and Science here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1007 York St in Denver’s Cheesman Park neighborhood, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a 23-acre public botanical garden.

Divided into three locations (one in Chatfield and one in Mt. Goliath), the botanical garden’s main location in York Street features a conservatory, a variety of themed gardens and a sunken amphitheater.

Moreover, the Denver Botanic Gardens features North America’s largest collection of plants from cold temperate climates around the world!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Denver Botanic Gardens is ideal for families, horticulturists, aspiring botanists, and nature lovers of all ages.

With seven diverse gardens that feature plants from Colorado and its neighboring states, the Denver Botanic Gardens is also ideal for nature photographers who want to capture Colorado’s diverse plant life, without the hassle of leaving Denver.

What to do here?

Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens. Check out the Denver Botanic Gardens’ art exhibitions. Check out some of the plants in the garden’s Living Plant Collections.

Stop by the garden’s Tropical Collection as well as the garden’s Alpine Collection, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Denver Botanic Gardens is open daily, from 9 AM to 8 PM. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the garden on weekday afternoons, preferably any time after 1 PM!

Learn more about the Denver Botanic Gardens here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1487 S Pearl St, Sushi Den is an award-winning sushi restaurant. Sushi Den offers authentic sushi made from fish that’s flown in daily from Tokyo.

That said, Sushi Den is consistently rated as one of the best sushi places not just in Denver, but in all of Colorado!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Sushi Den is ideal for foodies and tourists looking for high quality sushi in landlocked Denver. While the restaurant is almost always packed, it’s also one of the best places in Denver to bring a date!

What to do here?

Try some of Sushi Den’s bestsellers. For appetizers, try Sushi Den’s Taste of Sashimi and Miso Black Cod. Sushi Den’s Maguro and Ebi nigiri are particularly good as well.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try Sushi Den’s Chef’s Table Dinners and leave your menu in the capable hands of the chef!

Best time to visit

Sushi Den is open daily. 4:30 PM to 9 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

As of this writing, the restaurant has temporarily suspended taking reservations. That said, it’s best to get to the restaurant at least an hour before it opens to make sure you get a table!

Learn more about Sushi Den here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1874 S Broadway, Fifty-Two 80’s is an 80’s-themed collectibles shop. While they primarily sell toys, collectibles, and memorabilia from the 80’s, the store also features vintage items from the 70’s and 90’s.

Basically, it’s a Gen Xer’s paradise!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

As mentioned above, Fifty-Two 80’s appeals primarily to Gen Xers. That said, the 80’s is a magical time that is loved even by those who’ve never experienced it. The same is true for all 80’s memorabilia.

So really, it’s ideal for tourists of all ages who want to explore/relive the 80’s!

What to do here?

Explore Fifty-Two 80’s. Check out their collection of 80’s memorabilia–from Atari games, 80’s movie posters, to Care Bears, to He-Man figures, to iconic 80’s outfits!

The store also offers vintage Denver Bronco merch, so be sure to check those out, too!

Best time to visit

Fifty-Two 80’s is open Wednesday through Sunday. 12 PM to 6 PM Wednesday through Friday, 12 PM to 5 PM on Saturdays, and 12 PM to 4 PM on Sundays. It’s best to stop by the store on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Fifty-Two 80’s here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1700 North Sheridan Boulevard, Sloan’s Lake Park is a 290-acre park that features the eponymous Sloan’s Lake.

The park also features a number of basketball and tennis courts, multi-use trails, picnic areas, and two playgrounds. The park is the second largest park in Denver, and is home to a variety of birds, fish and other wildlife.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Sloan’s Lake Park is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and tourists looking to do some boating and water skiing. Sloan’s Lake Park is also ideal for avid birdwatchers as it is home to a seasonal and year-round variety of birds.

What to do here?

Explore all 290 acres of Sloan’s Lake Park. Go on a hike through some of its multi-use trails. Have a relaxing picnic by the lake and spend the day birdwatching and observing the park’s wildlife. Go boating and fishing at Sloan’s Lake!

Best time to visit

Sloan’s Lake Park is open daily, from 5 AM to 11 PM. It’s best to visit the park on weekdays, preferably early in the morning until around noon. That said, if you want to do some people watching, the park is busiest during weekends!

What’s special about this?

As the first metropolis to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, it stands to reason that Denver has an incredible cannabis culture.

Hosting more than 3000 marijuana businesses, Denver offers some of the most extensive weed tours in the country, and regardless if you’re a cannabis user or not, a cannabis tour offers a unique experience that ultimately adds another layer to your Denver trip!

Who’ll enjoy this?

A cannabis tour is ideal for avid cannabis users and cannabis enthusiasts. As mentioned above, a cannabis tour is also ideal for tourists who are curious as to the business side of cannabis, Denver’s cannabis culture, and cannabis in general.

What to do here?

Take a Denver cannabis tour. Depending on your Denver trip itinerary and budget, some of these tours may be more suited to you than others.

There are a variety of tours to choose from. Seed & Smith offers a 45-minute “Seed-to-Sale Tour” for those looking to explore the business side of cannabis. Puff, Pass & Paint on the other hand, offers cannabis-infused creative classes.

Best time to do this

The best time to take a cannabis tour really depends on your itinerary. That said, it’s best to allot at least half a day on your trip for a cannabis tour.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1340 Pennsylvania St, the Molly Brown House Museum is a historic house/museum that was the former home of famous activist and RMS Titanic survivor, Molly Brown.

The house is a designated Denver Landmark, and is considered an enduring symbol of the turn of the 20th century in Denver.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to the Molly Brown House Museum is ideal for families, American history buffs, and tourists who want to learn more about Victorian era Denver, and how the wealthy few lived during those times.

What to do here?

Take a self-guided tour or a private guided tour through the Molly Brown House Museum.

Explore Denver in the early 1900’s. Get your camera ready and take pictures of the historic house. Check out the house’s architecture and its unique furnishings.

Best time to visit

The Molly Brown House Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The museum can only accommodate up to 12 guests at a time, so it’s best to get to the museum early. That said, it’s best to allot at least an hour for the tour.

Learn more about the Molly Brown House Museum here!

What’s special about this?

Located at 2415 16th St, near Highline Pedestrian Bridge, National Velvet is an art installation created by Denver visual artist John McEnroe.

It’s a 20 feet tall sculpture that looks like a cross between a tower made of jelly beans stacked on top of each other, and a tower made of human intestines.

Nobody knows what it is exactly, but it’s one of the most popular public art pieces in Denver!

Who’ll enjoy this?

The “National Velvet” is ideal for all kinds of creatives, modern art enthusiasts, fans of John McEnroe, and tourists who want to immerse themselves in Denver’s art scene.

What to do here?

Get your camera ready and take pictures of the popular artwork. Observe National Velvet’s odd shape and think about what it is, and/or what it represents. It’s modern art, so basically, there’s no wrong answers, probably.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit National Velvet really depends on your itinerary. As it’s a very popular piece of public art, expect the area to be a little crowded at all times. That said, taking pictures of the art installation shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

Learn more about the National Velvet here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3500 Larimer St, Hop Alley is a modern Chinese restaurant that features a wide selection of craft beers, cider, and cocktails.

Named after Denver’s old 19th century Chinatown, Hop Alley pays homage to Denver’s Chinese heritage.

Featuring authentic modern Chinese fare, it has been consistently rated among the best restaurants in Denver ever since it opened in 2015!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Hop Alley is ideal for families, adventurous foodies, and tourists looking for the some of the best Chinese food in Denver.

As they serve their best menu items in large portions, Hop Alley is particularly ideal for tourists traveling with a group!

What to do here?

Try some of Hop Alley’s best dishes. Try their Fried chicken with Sichuan pepper, and their salt-and-pepper soft-shell crab. Don’t forget to wash down your meal with Hop Alley’s unique cocktails, like their Fire cocktail, and their legendary Daiquiri in a Porron!

Best time to visit

Hop Alley is open Monday through Saturday, from 5 PM to 10 PM. To avoid large crowds and to make sure you and your friends are accommodated, it’s best to stop by the restaurant on weekdays, preferably before Friday!

Learn more about Hop Alley here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1250 Bannock St, the Clyfford Still Museum is an award-winning minimalist art museum dedicated to the Abstract Expressionist works of Clyfford Still.

The museum is home to almost everything Clyfford Still ever created, and features nine beautiful galleries of Still’s art, historic photos, objects and letters from the Clyfford Still archives, a gift shop, and a hands-on art creation studio!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Clyfford Still Museum is ideal for artists, art aficionados (especially those who are fans of Still’s work), and tourists who are eager to learn about Abstract Expressionism.

What to do here?

Walk through the minimalist art museum and check out the large-scale paintings and archives of Clyfford Still.

Check out all nine of the museum’s galleries, and immerse yourself in Clyfford Still’s work. Don’t forget to stop by the museum’s hands-on art creation studio!

Best time to visit

The Clyfford Still Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. As the museum is just a 2-minute walk from the Denver Art Museum, it’s best to stop by the museum before or after a trip to the Denver Art Museum!

Learn more about the Clyfford Still Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 700 Water St, Denver’s Downtown Aquarium is one of Denver’s most popular entertainment complexes.

The Downtown Aquarium features a public aquarium that houses over 500 species of animals from all over the world, a full-service restaurant, an upscale bar, and a fully equipped ballroom!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

With a little bit of everything, Downtown Aquarium is ideal for families and all kinds of tourists. Whether you’re a serious marine conservationist or a casual tourist looking for a one-stop tourist experience, there’s something for everyone here!

What to do here?

Spend a day at Denver’s Downtown Aquarium and check out its state-of-the-art aquarium.

Go on a self-guided tour through the aquarium’s Aquarium Adventure Exhibit. Check out the aquarium’s In The Desert exhibit and Coral Lagoon exhibit.

Stop by the aquarium’s interactive Stingray Reef touch tank. Grab a quick bite at the aquarium’s restaurant, and try some of the cocktails at the aquarium’s Dive Lounge!

Best time to visit

The Downtown Aquarium is open daily. 10 AM to 9 PM Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 9 AM to 9 PM on Sundays. It’s best to visit the Downtown Aquarium on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Denver’s Downtown Aquarium here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1450 Cherokee St, the Denver Mint is a historic branch of the United States Mint. The Denver Mint is the single largest producer of coins in the world, and has been in operation since the early 1900s!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Part historical landmark, part art gallery, the Denver Mint is ideal for American history buffs, artists of all ages, and tourists who want to learn about the coin-making process!

What to do here?

Go on a free tour through the Denver Mint. Learn about how coins and pennies are made from raw pieces of metal, and the history of the Denver Mint. Stop by their gift shop for souvenirs and collector’s items, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

As of this writing, the Denver Mint is currently closed due to the COVID crisis. It’s best to check their website for updates on their reopening. That said, once they do open, it’s best to get a ticket in advance!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2250 15th St, at the joining of Cherry Creek and South Platte River, Confluence Park is a 4-acre urban park connected to a 42-acre greenway and park system.

The park features baseball and soccer fields, a dog park, and a number of riverside trails!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

With a variety of trails that run along Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, Confluence Park is ideal for all kinds of outdoor recreationists and nature lovers.

As with most urban parks featuring a variety of activities, it’s also ideal for families and tourists traveling with children!

What to do here?

Go biking/hiking at Confluence Park’s trails. Go fishing at the South Platte River. Rent out a kayak or a tube and ride the waters of Confluence Park. If you’re not into fishing or kayaking or hiking, Confluence Park is also great for picnics!

Best time to visit

Confluence Park is open daily, from 5 AM to 11 PM. As it’s one of the most urban parks in Denver, expect the park to be at least a little busy at all times. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to go to the park on weekdays, preferably early in the morning!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3455 Ringsby Ct#105, Comal Heritage Food Incubator, or simply Comal, is a lunch restaurant and training program that serves primarily Latin American dishes.

Comal is a non-profit restaurant dedicated to helping immigrants and refugees by providing an industrial kitchen and training under a seasoned chef.

Comal features a small, rotating lunch menu that consists mainly of Latin American dishes, with the occasional Middle Eastern fare!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Comal is ideal for families and tourists looking for a more exotic dining experience. It’s ideal for adventurous foodies looking for authentic Latin American food made with the freshest local ingredients!

What to do here?

Stop by Comal and try some of their best offerings. Strike up a conversation with the refugees and immigrants serving your food and learn about their stories and the stories behind their recipes!

Best time to visit

Comal is open Tuesday through Friday, from 11 AM to 3 PM. There’s really no bad time to visit Comal, but it’s best to get there around 11 AM to make sure you get a table!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1485 Delgany St, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is a contemporary art museum. The museum is dedicated to advancing 21st century art by welcoming all audiences and celebrating all voices.

That said, there are no permanent exhibits in the Museum of Contemporary Art, and exhibitions are rotated about 3-4 times a year. The building features 5 galleries, dedicated education spaces, a gift shop, a library, and a rooftop cafe!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Museum of Contemporary Art is ideal for artists, art enthusiasts, and tourists looking to learn about Denver’s burgeoning contemporary art scene, as well as contemporary art in general.

What to do here?

Explore the 27,000-square foot building. Check out the museum’s architecture. Check out the museum’s major exhibits, and if you’re up for it, take part in some of the museum’s events and lectures. Don’t forget to stop by the museum’s gift shop for souvenirs!

Best time to visit

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is open Tuesday through Sunday. 12 PM to 7 PM Tuesday through Thursday, 12 PM to 9 PM on Fridays, and 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

As the museum is fairly modest, it’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Denver’s Museum of Contemporary Art here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1477 Monroe St, Cerebral Brewing is an award-winning craft brewery. The brewery is dedicated to combining the science of brewing with an artistic viewpoint to create extremely drinkable beers spanning a broad spectrum of styles.

Consistently rated as one of the best breweries in Denver, we think it’s fair to say Cerebral Brewing has mostly succeeded in its mission!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Cerebral Brewing, despite its conceit as a science-focused brewery, is ideal for all kinds of beer lovers. Whether you consider the craft of brewing as an art, a science, a sport, or all three at the same time, there’s something for everyone here!

What to do here?

Bring all your friends and try some of Cerebral Brewing’s best brews! Their craft IPA’s are some of the best in Denver.

Try their Ripe Trait house IPA, and their Eclectic Potion – Phantasm triple IPA. For non-drinkers, Cerebral Brewing also offers non-alcoholic options, such as cold brew coffee!

Best time to visit

Cerebral Brewing is open daily. 12 PM to 6 PM on Mondays, 2 PM to 8 PM on Tuesdays, 12 PM to 10 PM Wednesday through Saturday, and 12 PM to 8 PM on Sundays.

There’s really no bad time to get a few drinks, so the best time to visit the brewery largely depends on your itinerary.

Learn more about Cerebral Brewing here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1299 W Littleton Blvd in Littleton, just over 11 miles south of Denver, the Denver Flotation Center – Lucid Dreams is a retreat center that provides restricted environmental stimulation therapy with a sensory deprivation tank.

The sensory deprivation tank creates an environment free of distractions, enabling the body to fully relax!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Denver Flotation Center is ideal for adventurous tourists looking for a new way to relax after a long day of exploring Denver.

While it may seem like a claustrophobic nightmare on paper, it’s a completely safe experience, and you always have the option of ending your session early if things get too intense!

What to do here?

Book a session at the Denver Flotation Center – Lucid Dreams and immerse yourself in a sensory deprivation tank. Try to relax and allow the water to carry your body, and don’t forget to enjoy the experience.

For first-timers, it’s best to approach this experience with an open mind.

Best time to visit

The Denver Flotation Center – Lucid Dreams is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 10 PM. It’s best to book a session ahead of time to make sure you get an appointment!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2637 Wellton St, Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom & Cervantes’ Other Side is a live music venue. This unique venue has two rooms that offer live music simultaneously, Cervantes’ and The Other Side.

Cervantes’ has a capacity of 900 people, while The Other Side can hold 500 people. Each room operates independently from each other, but patrons can venture back and forth between each room!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom & Cervantes’ Other Side is ideal for music lovers and tourists looking for a quirky place to enjoy live music. Cervantes’ is one of the best live music venues in Denver, and is one of the best places to immerse oneself in Denver’s music scene!

What to do here?

Catch a show at Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom and check out some of Denver’s best up and coming bands and performers. Enjoy the venue’s top of the line sound system, and try to mingle with some of the local patrons!

Best time to visit

Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom & Cervantes’ Other Side is open Monday through Saturday. 10 AM to 3 PM Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 11 PM on Fridays, and 12 PM to 11 PM on Saturdays.

While the best time to visit Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom largely depends on your itinerary and the shows you plan to attend, it’s best to get to the venue at least an hour before your show starts!

Learn more about the Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1201 Bannock St, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is a two-story art museum.

The museum houses three principal collections that includes a retrospective of Colorado’s distinguished painter, Vance Kirkland.

Containing over 30,000 works by more than 1,500 artists and designers, the museum allows visitors to time travel through 150 years of art!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is ideal for artists, designers, art enthusiasts, and tourists looking to check out the works of Vance Kirkland, as well as the works of other Colorado and regional artists.

What to do here?

Explore the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art. Check out its three main exhibits. Check out its International Decorative Arts Collection that features examples of every major design period from the 1870s to the present.

Check out its Colorado/Regional Collection, as well as its famous Kirkland Retrospective!

Best time to visit

The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is open Tuesday through Sunday. 11 AM to 5 PM Tuesday through Saturday, and 12 PM to 5 PM on Sundays.

As the museum is a 3-minute walk from the Denver Art Museum, it’s best to stop by the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art before and/or after your trip to the Denver Art Museum!

Learn more about the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art here!

What’s special about this place?

Located just 60 miles west of Denver, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America.

The byway is 45 kilometers in length, and climbs through nearly 9,000 feet of elevation gain, from the high plains of Denver through five climate zones to the 14,264-foot summit of Mount Evans.

The summit offers scenic views of the entire Front Range–some of the best views in Colorado!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is ideal for all tourists, and is a must-visit, especially for first-timers.

It offers some of the best views of Colorado’s Front Range, with alpine lakes, massive granite walls and strands of ancient bristlecone pine!

What to do here?

Begin at the Idaho Springs Visitor Center. Take Exit 241 off Interstate 70 for 1 mile. Stop at the Visitor Center for information, then continue to Miner Street to 13th Avenue. Pass through State Highway 5 through a corridor between the Mount Evans Wilderness where it ends near the summit of Mount Evans.

There are plenty of great stops along the way, so make as many stops as you want!

Best time to visit

The best time for a trip to the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is anytime from late May to early September, when weather conditions are optimal, and snow doesn’t cover a good portion of the road.

That said, it’s still advisable to consult a local ranger before going on this trip!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3301 Tejon St, Señor Bear is a Latin-inspired restaurant and bar. It marries the culinary traditions of Latin America with contemporary cooking techniques.

Don’t let the gimmicky name fool you, Señor Bear is an incredible restaurant that offers authentic modern Latin American cuisine!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Señor Bear is ideal for families, foodies, and tourists looking for great Pan-Latin food in a relaxed setting. With its impeccable food and casual atmosphere, it’s also a great place for dates!

What to do here?

Try some of Señor Bear’s bestsellers. Try their best Happy Hour menu items, like their Empanada and their Seafood Tostada. For dinner, try their Chorizo Parillero and Pollo a la Brasa.

Wash that all down with their signature cocktails, like their De La Casa Margarita and Bear’s Limonada.

Best time to visit

Señor Bear is open daily. 3 PM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, 3 PM to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 AM to 10 PM on Sundays.

Señor Bear is almost always packed, so it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time to avoid a long wait!

Learn more about Señor Bear here!

What’s special about this place?

Roughly bordered by Downing Street, York Street, Colfax Avenue, and 8th Avenue, Cheesman Park is an urban park and neighborhood in central Denver. The park features 80 acres of lush green space planted with 1,880 trees from over 57 different species.

The park also contains the Denver Botanic Gardens. Although it’s generally considered one of Denver’s greenest parks, it is also one of Denver’s spookiest attractions, as it sits on what was once Denver’s Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Cheesman Park, like most of the other parks mentioned on this list, is ideal for families, nature lovers, and tourists looking to escape the Denver metro’s hustle and bustle.

That said, due to the park’s past, it’s also ideal for thrill seekers, wannabe paranormal investigators, and ghost hunters!

What to do here?

Explore Cheesman Park. Check out its hiking trails and take a nice stroll through its large open space.

If you’re up for it, join a ghost hunting tour and learn about the history of Denver’s Prospect Hill Cemetery. It is said that up to 2,000 bodies were buried here in the 19th century, and that their restless spirits still roam the park grounds!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cheesman Park depends on your itinerary. If you’re planning to take a nice little stroll in the park, it’s best to visit the park early in the morning. If you plan on getting into a bit of ghost hunting, though, it’s best to visit the park at night!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4058 Tejon St, The Wolf’s Tailor is a contemporary restaurant that features a mix of Italian and Japanese cuisine made with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients!

The Wolf’s Tailor expertly weaves these seemingly disparate cuisines into one cohesive Omakase menu.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Wolf’s Tailor is ideal for serious foodies and adventurous tourists who are willing to splurge a bit on food. As one of the best restaurants in Denver, it’s also a great place for dates!

What to do here?

As the Wolf’s Tailor features an Omakase menu, there really isn’t much to do here except to come early, come hungry, and enjoy the food and the expertly curated alcohol pairings!

Best time to visit

The Wolf’s Tailor is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 5 PM to 9 PM. Although reservations aren’t required, it’s strongly recommended to make a reservation ahead of time to make sure you get a table!

Learn more about The Wolf’s Tailor here!

What’s special about this place?

Located just north of downtown Denver, the River North Art District, affectionately called RiNo, is a historic Denver neighborhood.

RiNo features historic warehouses and factories that now house swanky jazz bars, restaurants, brewpubs, art galleries and working studios. The neighborhood is also home to a number of innovative street art murals!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The River North Art District is the place to be for all kinds of creatives and tourists looking to immerse themselves in Denver’s music and arts scene.

It’s not just one of Denver’s most artsy neighborhoods, it’s one of the most artsy neighborhoods in the U.S.

What to do here?

Take a walking tour through the historic district. Check out the unique graffiti and street art on almost every corner of the neighborhood. Listen to some live jazz music at Nocturne, and check out the numerous brewpubs within the neighborhood!

Best time to visit

The best time to tour RiNo really depends on your itinerary. With a variety of attractions, it’s best to spend at least a good half day here to get the full experience!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2030 W 30th Ave, Denver’s Linger Eatuary is an iconic Denver restaurant that features a sustainable, responsibly-sourced, vegetable-forward menu.

Oh, and the restaurant is housed in what was once the historic Olinger Mortuaries that held the remains of Buffalo Bill himself!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Linger Eatuary is ideal for foodies, history buffs, and tourists looking for a bit of a macabre twist to their dining experience.

While the concept seems odd on paper, it does make sense to convert a mortuary into a restaurant space (as both spaces are used to hold dead bodies). Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the food and drinks are top notch.

What to do here?

Try some of Linger’s bestsellers. Try Linger’s Wagyu Sliders and Yellowfin Tuna Poke Bowl. Their Pad Thai and Colorado Lamb Sausage Pita Wrap are particularly good as well.

Wash that all down with some of their signature cocktails, like their Corpse Reviver #2!

Best time to visit

Linger is open Tuesday through Sunday. 5 PM to 9 PM Tuesday through Thursday, 5 PM to 11 PM on Fridays, 10 AM to 2:30 PM and 5 PM to 11 PM on Saturdays, and 10 AM to 2:30 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM on Sundays.

It’s best to make a reservation ahead of time to make sure you and your party get a table!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6249 S Turkey Creek Rd in Morrison, just over 17 miles west of Denver, Tiny Town & Railroad is a mini village that features kid sized buildings, a real railroad, and a playground.

Tiny Town features more than 100 1/6 scale buildings, along with a 15-inch gauge miniature railway!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Tiny Town & Railroad is ideal for families and tourists who want to experience what Gulliver experienced in the fictional island of Lilliput (sans the Lilliputians, of course). The town offers a fun little getaway that’s suited for tourists of all ages!

What to do here?

Take a tour through the whole Tiny Town. Go on a train ride and check out parts of the park that are not accessible any other way. Go on a nice little picnic in one of the town’s picnic areas. As always, don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

Tiny Town & Railroad is open daily, from late spring through summer. Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends.

It’s best to visit Tiny Town on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Tiny Town here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4303 Brighton Blvd, the Forney Museum of Transportation is a one-of-a-kind museum that houses over 600 artifacts relating to historical transportation.

The museum’s attractions include Amelia Earhart’s 1923 Kissel ‘Gold Bug’, Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’ Locomotive #4005, and a Forney locomotive!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Forney Museum of Transportation is ideal for families, transportation history buffs, and tourists looking to learn more about the history of transportation and automobiles!

What to do here?

Tour the Forney Museum of Transportation. Check out the highlights of their collection.

Check out the Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’ Locomotive and take pictures of Amelia Earhart’s 1923 Kissel ‘Gold Bug’. Check out their 1913-53 Indian Motorcycle Collection, as well as their 1923 Case Steam Tractor!

Best time to visit

The Forney Museum of Transportation is open Thursday through Monday. 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and 12 PM to 5 PM on Sundays. It’s best to visit the museum on Mondays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the Forney Museum of Transportation here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 110 Broadway between First and Second Avenues, the Mayan Theater is a historic movie house that opened in 1930. A historic landmark, the Mayan Theater is one of the country’s three remaining theaters designed in the Art Deco Mayan Revival style.

The Mayan Theatre is also one of the best places in Denver to watch independent films and foreign language films!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Mayan Theatre is ideal for families, cinephiles, and tourists looking to watch an indie film in Denver. It’s also ideal for tourists who just want to pass the time before heading to the next stop in their Denver adventure!

What to do here?

Watch an arthouse film or two at the Mayan Theatre. Check out its Art Deco Mayan Revival architecture, and check out its well-preserved interior.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Mayan Theater largely depends on your itinerary and the film you plan on watching. It’s best to get to the theater at least 15 minutes before your movie starts!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1727 Tremont Pl, the American Museum of Western Art–the Anschutz Collection is an art museum that features American Western Art from the early 19th century to the present day.

The museum houses early American expeditionary paintings, Hudson River School and Rocky Mountain School landscapes, 19th-century American narrative paintings, early American modernist paintings, and even Abstract Expressionist pieces!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The American Museum of Western Art is ideal for artists, art lovers, and tourists looking to educate themselves on the art and history of the American West.

What to do here?

Explore the American Museum of Western Art. Check out the museum’s Anschutz Collection, featuring over 600 paintings, drawings, and sculptures representing more than 180 artists! Check out its California Painters exhibit, as well as its Narrative Artists exhibit!

Best time to visit

The American Museum of Western Art is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. The museum is almost always a little busy, but if you want to avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the museum on Wednesdays!

Learn more about the American Museum of Western Art here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1635 Platte St, Cerveceria Colorado is a brewery that specializes in utilizing traditional Mexican ingredients, flavors, and processes to create innovative styles of beer.

Cerveceria Colorado features a wide selection of Mexican-style brews that include Mexican Lagers, wheat beer made with nopal, and beer aged in Tequila barrels!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Cerveceria Colorado is ideal for beer enthusiasts and tourists looking to try traditional Mexican cerveza. As beer is best enjoyed with company, Cerveceria Colorado is also ideal for tourists traveling with friends.

What to do here?

Try Cerveceria Colorado’s unique cervezas!

Try their Poblano Pils, a Mexican Lage aged with fresh poblano peppers.

Try their Nopalito Wheat, a wheat beer made with nopal; and don’t forget to try their famous Venga Mexican Lager, a traditional Mexican Lager!

Best time to visit

Cerveceria Colorado is open Tuesday through Sunday. 11 AM to 10 PM Tuesday through Thursday, 11 AM to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 AM to 9 PM on Sundays. The best time to visit the brewery largely depends on your itinerary.

Learn more about Cerveceria Colorado here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4601 Sheridan Boulevard, Lakeside Amusement Park is a historic family-owned amusement park. The amusement park offers a variety of Big Rides and Little Rides, some of which have been in operation since 1940.

It is the oldest running amusement park in Colorado, and one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Lakeside Amusement Park is ideal for families, thrill-seekers, tourists traveling with children, and tourists looking to take part in one of Denver’s oldest institutions.

What to do here?

Tour Lakeside Amusement Park. Check out some of its best rides. Ride the Cyclone, Lakeside Amusement Park’s Ed Vettel-designed shallow wooden coaster, and try riding the park’s iconic Orient Express, a miniature railway.

Best time to visit

Lakeside Amusement Park is open Friday through Sunday. 7 PM to 11:30 PM on Fridays, 2 PM to 11:30 PM on Saturdays, 2 PM to 11 PM on Sundays, and 2 PM to 10:30 PM on Mondays.

It’s best to visit the amusement park on Mondays and Fridays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Lakeside Amusement Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6550 Gateway Rd in Commerce City, just under 13 miles northeast of Denver, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a 15,988-acre national wildlife refuge that is home to more than 330 species of wildlife!

The refuge features more than 20 miles of hiking trails, a wildlife drive, and an archery range!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, avid hikers, and tourists looking to get away from the Denver urban jungle.

What to do here?

Explore the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Hike through the refuge’s hiking trails. Get your binoculars ready and try to spot some of the animals that live in the refuge.

Do some catch-and-release fishing at Lakes Mary and Ladora; and, if you’re up for it, try your hand at archery at the refuge’s archery range!

Best time to visit

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is open daily, from sunrise to sunset. It’s best to visit the refuge on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1801 Blake St #10, Run For the Roses is an underground Denver cocktail bar. Run For the Roses offers a wide variety of craft cocktails, rare spirits, and elevated snacks in a cozy yet sociable setting!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Run For the Roses is ideal for tourists looking to grab a few drinks in a cozy and intimate setting, away from most of Denver’s hustle and bustle. This underground lounge is perfect for shy drinkers who just want to enjoy their drinks in peace.

What to do here?

Try some of Run For the Roses best craft cocktails, such as their Demons Be Gone and Impeachment.

They also serve some great craft beers like 4 Noses Perfect Drift Pilsner and Deschutes Fresh Haze IPA. If you’re looking to grab a quick bite, try the bar’s famous Breakfast Sammy!

Best time to visit

Run For the Roses is open Thursday through Sunday, from 5 PM to 12 AM. It’s best to stop by this swanky speakeasy on Thursdays and Sundays to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Run For the Roses here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 801 S Wadsworth Blvd, at the center of Lakewood City, just under 8 miles west of Denver, Belmar Park is a 132-acre park and neighborhood.

The park features nearly two miles of paved trails, unpaved walking trails, over 17 acres of water, picnic areas, and a nice playground!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to Belmar Park is ideal for families, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and tourists looking for a nice park that’s more peaceful than some of Denver’s urban parks.

What to do here?

Explore Belmar Park. Go hiking through some of its paved and unpaved hiking trails. Get your binoculars ready and go birdwatching near the park’s creek.

Go biking on the park’s bicycle trails, and check out Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park and check out the park’s historic buildings!

Best time to visit

Belmar Park is open daily, from 8 AM to 4 PM. It’s best to visit the park on weekdays to avoid large crowds. If you can’t help it, though, try to visit early in the morning, before 12 noon!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 830 Kipling St in Lakewood, the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys is a private, non-profit museum.

The museum houses over 20,000 objects that range from vintage Star Wars toys, to artisan dollhouses, to antique dolls! The museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Colorado’s childhood.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys is ideal for families, collectors and hobbyists of all ages, and tourists traveling with children.

It’s also ideal for history nerds who want to look at Colorado’s history through the objects in the museum.

What to do here?

Visit the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys. Check out its current exhibits that include the largest dollhouses in the museum’s collection, such as The Someday House and the Santa Fe House. Check out the museum’s artisan miniatures, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Learn more about the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys here!

What’s special about this place?

Starting from Denver’s Confluence Park, Cherry Creek Trail is a 40.9 heavily trafficked trail that features a river and is suitable for all skill levels.

The trail is one of the many beautiful Denver trails that highlight the charms of the great outdoor city and introduces tourists to the area’s distinctive suburbs!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Exploring Cherry Creek Trail is ideal for families, hikers and runners of all levels, cyclists, nature lovers, and bird watchers. The Cherry Creek Trail offers tourists a great way to explore a whole new Denver!

What to do here?

Go hiking and/or cycling through the Cherry Creek Trail. Check out some of the attractions along the trail, such as the Four Mile Historic Park, Cherry Creek Mall, and the Denver Country Club.

Get your binoculars and camera ready and do some bird watching along the trail!

Best time to visit

The best time to explore the Cherry Creek Trail is during the spring and summer months, when weather conditions are optimal.

That said, the trail is way more crowded during the summer months, so it’s best to explore the trail during spring to avoid large crowds.

What’s special about this place?

Located within the Federal Center Building at Lakewood, the National Ice Core Lab is the primary repository for ice cores collected by the United States.

The National Ice Core Lab is dedicated to storing, curating, and studying meteoric ice cores from glaciated regions of the world.

Housing over 17,000 meters of ice cores collected from Antarctica and Greenland, the facility is one of the world’s best resources for climate research!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The National Ice Core Lab is ideal for aspiring environmental scientists, and tourists curious as to how climate change is being studied on a global scale and the role that ice cores play in global climate research.

What to do here?

Dress appropriately and book a tour through the National Ice Core Lab. Check out the lab’s collection of ice cores from all over the world and learn about ice cores and their role in climate research.

Best time to visit

While the National Ice Core Lab is open on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM, bookings are required to tour the facility. It’s best to book a tour a few months ahead of time to make sure you get a slot!

Learn more about the National Ice Core Lab here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at the William F Hayden Green Mountain Park in Lakewood, the Green Mountain Trail is a 10.3 kilometer heavily trafficked loop that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate.

William F. Hayden Park is the second largest park in Lakewood, and the summit of the Green Mountain Trail offers some of the best views of the Denver metropolitan area!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Green Mountain Trail is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, avid hikers, and nature lovers. While the trail is rated as moderate, the views from Green Mountain’s summit is well worth the trek!

What to do here?

Start your trek early and make sure to dress appropriately. There’s no shade along the trail, so make sure to bring water and sunscreen.

Get your camera ready and take pictures of the wildflowers along the trail. Once you reach the summit, enjoy the view!

Best time to visit

The Green Mountain Trail is accessible all year round, but it’s best to go on the trail during the spring and summer months for optimal weather conditions. That said, it’s still advisable to consult a local ranger before you go on this trip!