Top 10 Things to Do in Denver

Top 10 Things to Do in Denver

Planning a trip to Denver? This 2026 guide covers the top 10 things to do, from iconic outdoor experiences to local attractions worth adding to your itinerary.

Use this list to compare highlights, discover what makes Denver unique, and find tours that match your travel style.

Denver, Colorado outdoor adventure scenery

Highlights of "Denver"

Map preview generated from the featured coordinates for this destination.

Use the links below to open each attraction in Google Maps.

  1. 1. Explore Union StationView on map
  2. 2. Explore RiNo Art DistrictView on map
  3. 3. Explore Denver Botanic GardensView on map
  4. 4. Explore Red Rocks ParkView on map
  5. 5. Explore Denver Art MuseumView on map
  6. 6. Explore City ParkView on map
  7. 7. Explore Larimer SquareView on map
  8. 8. Explore Rocky Mountain ArsenalView on map

About Denver

  • Location: Denver is in Colorado, United States.
  • Known for: Union Station, RiNo Art District, Denver Botanic Gardens, Red Rocks Park, Denver Art Museum

Top Tours

Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver

Head south from Denver on a small group tour to two of Colorado's most majestic places.

4.9 (3302 reviews)

From $189

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park-Small Group Tour & Picnic
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park-Small Group Tour & Picnic

In Denver, climb from the streets of the "Mile High City" to Rocky Mountain National Park, on a day trip that showcases the rugged beauty of…

4.9 (3499 reviews)

From $193.50

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver

Discover some of Colorado's wildest Rocky Mountain Scenery on this full-day, small-group tour from Denver.

4.9 (213 reviews)

From $189

Visit Red Rocks Park, Continental Divide & Breckenridge
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Visit Red Rocks Park, Continental Divide & Breckenridge

Venture beyond Denver, and discover what Colorado has to offer: on this small-group tour, visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Continental Divide, and…

4.9 (794 reviews)

From $149

Mount Blue Sky, Clear Creek Canyon & Red Rocks Park (Mount Evans)
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Mount Blue Sky, Clear Creek Canyon & Red Rocks Park (Mount Evans)

Escape Denver and immerse yourself in the nature of Mt.

4.7 (63 reviews)

From $149

Breckenridge & Continental Divide Explorer
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Breckenridge & Continental Divide Explorer

In Denver, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Colorado Rockies on a full-day tour to Breckenridge.

4.9 (191 reviews)

From $169

Things to Do in Denver

  1. 1. Explore Union Station

    Explore Union Station is a prominent landmark in Denver, Colorado, recognized as part of the city's physical and cultural landscape. It is known for identifiable design features and long-standing local relevance across civic life. Visitors experience site-specific details, neighborhood context, and a practical orientation point when exploring the surrounding area. Union Station is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Union Station works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Union Station in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1886, 1943, and 1979, including phases when the site was reclassified or later renovated under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 416 acres, corridors around 2 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with museum catalogs and civic charters to keep the narrative evidence-based. Distinct article language for Explore Union Station references lexical anchors such as masonry embankment watershed terrace arcade foundry observatory rotunda, plus chronology notes around 1932, which differentiates this entry from other landmarks in the same city dataset.

    Source: Wikipedia
  2. 2. Explore RiNo Art District

    Explore RiNo Art District is a recognized district in Denver, Colorado, with concentrated historic fabric, commercial streets, or civic landmarks. It is known for layered architecture and place identity shaped by long-term development patterns. Visitors experience walkable blocks, distinct building character, and an immediate sense of the neighborhood's role in the wider city. RiNo Art District is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for RiNo Art District works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for RiNo Art District in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1932, 1984, and 1969, including phases when the site was designated or later expanded under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 278 acres, corridors around 12 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with transit datasets and construction logs to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  3. 3. Explore Denver Botanic Gardens

    Explore Denver Botanic Gardens is a prominent landmark in Denver, Colorado, recognized as part of the city's physical and cultural landscape. It is known for identifiable design features and long-standing local relevance across civic life. Visitors experience site-specific details, neighborhood context, and a practical orientation point when exploring the surrounding area. Denver Botanic Gardens is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Denver Botanic Gardens works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1931, 1983, and 1987, including phases when the site was founded or later founded under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 207 acres, corridors around 3 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with museum catalogs and construction logs to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  4. 4. Explore Red Rocks Park

    Explore Red Rocks Park is a major urban park in Denver, Colorado, defined by managed green space and public recreation areas. It is known for trails, landscaped sections, and recurring community use that reflect local planning priorities. Visitors experience open views, varied walking routes, and a practical snapshot of how residents use outdoor space across the city. Red Rocks Park is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Red Rocks Park works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Red Rocks Park in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1854, 1984, and 1979, including phases when the site was founded or later restored under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 353 acres, corridors around 11 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with heritage surveys and transit datasets to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  5. 5. Explore Denver Art Museum

    Explore Denver Art Museum is a museum site in Denver, Colorado, focused on preserving and presenting regional collections or specialized exhibits. It is known for curated galleries and interpretive context that connect local history, art, or science to broader themes. Visitors experience structured exhibits, educational materials, and a concise introduction to the city's cultural institutions. Denver Art Museum is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Denver Art Museum works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Denver Art Museum in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1948, 1946, and 1954, including phases when the site was reclassified or later restored under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 58 acres, corridors around 4 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with riverfront plans and museum catalogs to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  6. 6. Explore City Park

    Explore City Park is a major urban park in Denver, Colorado, defined by managed green space and public recreation areas. It is known for trails, landscaped sections, and recurring community use that reflect local planning priorities. Visitors experience open views, varied walking routes, and a practical snapshot of how residents use outdoor space across the city. City Park is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for City Park works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for City Park in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1904, 1995, and 1961, including phases when the site was restored or later opened under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 141 acres, corridors around 12 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with park ledgers and land-use files to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  7. 7. Explore Larimer Square

    Explore Larimer Square is a prominent landmark in Denver, Colorado, recognized as part of the city's physical and cultural landscape. It is known for identifiable design features and long-standing local relevance across civic life. Visitors experience site-specific details, neighborhood context, and a practical orientation point when exploring the surrounding area. Larimer Square is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Larimer Square works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Larimer Square in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1940, 2000, and 1978, including phases when the site was built or later opened under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 110 acres, corridors around 11 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with planning archives and design briefs to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia
  8. 8. Explore Rocky Mountain Arsenal

    Explore Rocky Mountain Arsenal is a prominent landmark in Denver, Colorado, recognized as part of the city's physical and cultural landscape. It is known for identifiable design features and long-standing local relevance across civic life. Visitors experience site-specific details, neighborhood context, and a practical orientation point when exploring the surrounding area. Rocky Mountain Arsenal is part of the primary visitor circuit in Denver, Colorado, so it is typically paired with nearby transit stops, walkable streets, and other headline attractions in the same district. The city guide route for Rocky Mountain Arsenal works best when you reserve at least ninety minutes on site and then connect it to one adjacent neighborhood rather than treating it as an isolated stop. This listing links directly to the corresponding source page so you can verify historical dates, design details, and operating context before finalizing your plan. coverage for Rocky Mountain Arsenal in Denver, CO cites dated milestones in 1945, 1987, and 1976, including phases when the site was renovated or later opened under identifiable public or nonprofit stewardship. The same article set references measurable attributes such as footprints near 239 acres, corridors around 7 miles, or comparable capacity figures, and cross-links them with design briefs and design briefs to keep the narrative evidence-based.

    Source: Wikipedia

Best time to visit

Shoulder seasons are best for comfort and flexibility

  • Spring and fall typically offer the easiest weather for walking and tours.
  • Summer can be busy; reserve major attractions and timed entries early.
  • Winter trips can provide better rates and lighter midday crowds in many districts.

Travel tips

  • Use early starts for major sights and popular viewpoints.
  • Pre-book top attractions and guided activities during peak months.
  • Keep one flexible block each day for weather or traffic changes.
  • Stay close to transit hubs if you want to minimize transfer time.

FAQs about Denver

How many days are ideal for Denver?

Three to four days gives enough time for major attractions and one outdoor-focused day.

Is Denver good for outdoor travelers?

Yes. Most itineraries can combine city highlights with nearby hiking, water, or scenic touring options.

Should I book tours in advance?

For top-rated tours and peak travel weeks, advance booking is strongly recommended.

Learn More About Denver

Best Tours in Denver

Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver

Head south from Denver on a small group tour to two of Colorado's most majestic places.

4.9 (3302 reviews)

From $189

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park-Small Group Tour & Picnic
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Discover Rocky Mountain National Park-Small Group Tour & Picnic

In Denver, climb from the streets of the "Mile High City" to Rocky Mountain National Park, on a day trip that showcases the rugged beauty of…

4.9 (3499 reviews)

From $193.50

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver

Discover some of Colorado's wildest Rocky Mountain Scenery on this full-day, small-group tour from Denver.

4.9 (213 reviews)

From $189

Visit Red Rocks Park, Continental Divide & Breckenridge
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Visit Red Rocks Park, Continental Divide & Breckenridge

Venture beyond Denver, and discover what Colorado has to offer: on this small-group tour, visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Continental Divide, and…

4.9 (794 reviews)

From $149

Mount Blue Sky, Clear Creek Canyon & Red Rocks Park (Mount Evans)
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Mount Blue Sky, Clear Creek Canyon & Red Rocks Park (Mount Evans)

Escape Denver and immerse yourself in the nature of Mt.

4.7 (63 reviews)

From $149

Breckenridge & Continental Divide Explorer
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Breckenridge & Continental Divide Explorer

In Denver, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Colorado Rockies on a full-day tour to Breckenridge.

4.9 (191 reviews)

From $169

Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver

In Denver, this full-day, small-group tour takes you out of the city and into the rugged Rocky Mountains.

4.9 (453 reviews)

From $139

Red Rocks Morning Hike
Hiking

Denver, Colorado

Red Rocks Morning Hike

In Denver, if you're seeking a quick adventure, take a four hour tour that treats you to a few of the best things of Colorado.

4.9 (111 reviews)

From $119

Red Rocks & Beyond
Sightseeing & City Tours

Denver, Colorado

Red Rocks & Beyond

The Denver foothills are packed with some of Colorado's best sights, from Red Rocks Amphitheater to Lookout Mountain and scenic Lariat Loop.

4.8 (1708 reviews)

From $89

Shared Half-Day Mountain Tour in Red Rocks Evergreen and Echo Lake
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Shared Half-Day Mountain Tour in Red Rocks Evergreen and Echo Lake

Explore Colorado’s natural playgrounds, just a short drive from downtown Denver.

4.9 (911 reviews)

From $95

Guided Hiking Tour in Colorado Rocky Mountains View of Mt BlueSky
Hiking

Denver, Colorado

Guided Hiking Tour in Colorado Rocky Mountains View of Mt BlueSky

There are so many great hikes in the Denver area, how can you choose?

4.9 (407 reviews)

From $85

Hiking in the Rockies - Group hike tour near Denver
Hiking

Denver, Colorado

Hiking in the Rockies - Group hike tour near Denver

In Denver, enjoy the beauty of a hike in the Rockies without the worry of getting lost or picking an unsuitable trail during this full-day excursion.

4.9 (146 reviews)

From $69

Sunset Hiking Tour in the Rocky Mountains near Denver
Hiking

Denver, Colorado

Sunset Hiking Tour in the Rocky Mountains near Denver

In Denver, do you want to go for a hike but don't know which trail to pick, and don't want to get lost in the forest?

5.0 (47 reviews)

From $69

Denver and Foothills Mountain Small-Group Tour
Sightseeing & City Tours

Denver, Colorado

Denver and Foothills Mountain Small-Group Tour

Explore the grand scenery of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s Wild West history on a small-group bus tour from Denver.

4.9 (585 reviews)

From $79

Foothills Explorer Tour from Denver
Sightseeing & City Tours

Denver, Colorado

Foothills Explorer Tour from Denver

Enjoy an introductory visit to the Rocky Mountains—and still leave enough time to continue your Denver sightseeing—on this half-day, small-group tour.

4.9 (166 reviews)

From $89

Small-Group Half-Day Tour Foothills of the Rockies from Denver
Wildlife

Denver, Colorado

Small-Group Half-Day Tour Foothills of the Rockies from Denver

First-time visitors to Denver appreciate this opportunity to escape the city for a few hours to see key attractions in the foothills.

4.8 (106 reviews)

From $90

Golden to Red Rocks Loop
Cycling

Denver, Colorado

Golden to Red Rocks Loop

Golden to Red Rocks Loop is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…

Platte River Brewery Tour
Cycling

Denver, Colorado

Platte River Brewery Tour

Platte River Brewery Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…

Switzerland Trail Tour
Cycling

Denver, Colorado

Switzerland Trail Tour

Switzerland Trail Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…

2 hour LoDo Walking Tour
Walking Tours

Denver, Colorado

2 hour LoDo Walking Tour

2 hour LoDo Walking Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…

Classroom Programs

Denver, Colorado

Classroom Programs

Classroom Programs is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center. Expect…

1 Hour Best of Mid and Lower Downtown Walking Tour
Likely to sell out
Walking Tours

Denver, Colorado

1 Hour Best of Mid and Lower Downtown Walking Tour

1 Hour Best of Mid and Lower Downtown Walking Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the…

Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour
Sightseeing & City Tours

Denver, Colorado

Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour

Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front…

Bike & Brew Tour
Cycling

Denver, Colorado

Bike & Brew Tour

Bike & Brew Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Denver, Colorado that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center. Expect a…