The Best Travel Guide to Denver, Colorado

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Denver

Provided by: Visit Denver

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North America United States Denver, Colorado

Overview

Denver, Colorado The guide was updated: 2023-10-12

Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a city brimming with life. With 300 annual days of sunshine, the Mile High City is a year-round destination that seamlessly blends a rich Western heritage and passion for the outdoors with urban excitement. Downtown Denver is home to an array of chef-owned restaurants, brewpubs, professional sports, shops, and family-friendly attractions. Additionally, Denver serves as the premier gateway to the most breathtaking national parks in the Western USA, including Mesa Verde, one of Colorado's four national parks, as well as Wyoming's Yellowstone and Utah's Canyonlands.

Facts

Population:	Metro area: 2.93 million (2023)
Currency:	1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Emergency numbers:	Ambulance, Fire, and Police: 911 Denver Police Department: +1 720 913 2000
Newspapers:	The Denver Post — www.denverpost.com The Advocate (print only) The Clarion — duclarion.com Colorado Politics — www.coloradopolitics.com Denver Business Journal — www.bizjournals.com/denver
Website:	www.denver.org
Opening hours:	General opening hours for shops are 10 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday, and noon to 6pm on Sundays.
Tourist information:	Tourist Information Center at Denver Union Station 1701 Wynkoop Street, Denver Open Wed–Sat 9am–4pm +1 303 519 2388

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Section in Denver, Colorado

As a city crafted among the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains and High Plains, much of Denver’s appeal resides in exploring its ethereal beauty. It possesses a rich cultural and geographical history, both of which are created via Denver's plethora of museums and natural trails. Denver offers attractions for all ages: the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, with its dinosaur exhibits, Space Odyssey, a digital planetarium, and IMAX theater; the Denver Performing Arts Complex, home to 10 venues offering theater, opera, symphony, ballet, and Broadway touring shows; History Colorado Center, telling the stories of the past through people and places; Denver Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis in the middle of the city; the Denver Art Museum, with its acclaimed American Indian and Western art collections; and the Clyfford Still Museum, showcasing the work of this American abstract expressionist.

Mount Evans

Mount Evans

Mount Evans is Denver’s biggest natural attraction, drawing people from all over the country to scale its Scenic Byway and catch glimpses of everything from stunning wildlife to a wonderful view of the cityscape and skyline. Just 60 miles west of Denver, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is nearly 9,000 feet of adrenaline-fueled elevation gain. It extends from the High Plains all the way to the Mount Evans summit—which lifts to a spectacular 14,000 feet. Native to Mount Evans are birds, mountain goats, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, marmots, and alpine wildflowers; three different hiking trails will give you the opportunity to see them: the Walter Pesman Trail, the Walter Pesman Alpine Garden Loop, and the Summit Trail.

Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo

An impressive home to over 3,500 animals of over 650 species, the Denver Zoo is certainly worth a visit. In addition to exhibits like Bird World, Tropical Discovery, Primate Panorama, and Dragons of Komodo, the zoo has added the new Predator Ridge exhibit, which showcases 14 African species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. There is no shortage of astonishment and lasting experiences.

Cherry Creek Bike Trail

Cherry Creek Bike Trail

Stretching across 40 miles, the Cherry Creek Regional Trail is a scenic pathway that meanders from Franktown in Douglas County to Confluence Park in Downtown Denver, marking the site where the city was founded after a gold discovery in 1858. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride while taking in the sights or a rigorous workout, the trail is a perfect choice. Along the way, don't miss the Cherry Creek Shopping District and Four Mile House, and Historic Park, where you can discover the stories of Denver's early pioneers. Plus, you don't have to limit yourself to biking—the trail is also open to walkers and inline skaters.

Lower Downtown Denver

Lower Downtown Denver

Referred to as “LoDo” by the locals, Lower Downtown Denver is a markedly stylish area of the city. Its charm is garnished by historical brick buildings and the Union Station, while the happening Wazee Street boasts art galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafés. Lower Downtown’s nightlife is second to none. Bars and clubs can be found on Market Street—14th to 20th Street to be exact—which close at 2 in the morning.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens and its satellite locations are a Shakespearean sonnet that come to life. Four gardens with four distinctive identities are available for leisure, education, or play. The gardens at York Street serve as a testament to Denver’s Western heritage, the gardens at Chatfield possess a rustic peace, the Mount Goliath gardens offer subalpine, alpine, and mountain vistas of Denver while the Mordecai Children’s Garden is a land of exploration for kids and families through the seasons.

Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Take a day to watch your kids go “ooo” and “ahh” in amazement at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. Open to kids from newborn to age 8, this museum has established itself as an institution within which special activities and events help children learn in a fun way. Interactive “Playscapes,” daily programs, and educational exhibits have all been designed for the little ones.

Empower Field at Mile High

Empower Field at Mile High

Home to the National Football League’s Denver Broncos, Empower Field at Mile High is a newly revamped stadium that impresses even visiting teams. During the months of June, July, and August, public tours are conducted Tuesday through Saturday, and Thursday through Saturday during the remaining months.

Molly Brown House Museum

Molly Brown House Museum

With a mission "to inspire courage, conviction and proactive change in the spirit of Margaret Brown,” this museum provides a fascinating view into the life of Titanic survivor Maggie “Molly” Brown. As one of only several national sites that explore a woman’s story, this Victorian Mansion has been restored and maintained to keep a part of Denver’s history alive and well.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

This performing arts center features the Tony Award-winning Denver Center Theatre Company, which takes the stage to world premiers, revivals, and classic favorites. Cabaret and musical tours can be found with the Denver Center Attractions. Backstage tours and even acting classes are held, and the Seawell Grand Ballroom holds galas and receptions.

Denver Art Museum (DAM)

Denver Art Museum (DAM)

Immerse yourself in art from all corners of the globe at this enchanting art museum. With over 70,000 diverse works spanning centuries and continents, the DAM stands as one of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago. Delve into a range of artistic styles, from European classics to modern masterpieces, South and Central American treasures, and Native American artifacts. And don't miss the design, architecture, graphics, textile, and fashion galleries. Be sure to check out the museum's upcoming exhibitions and special events.

Washington Park

Washington Park

Washington Park is characterized by extensive green areas, which make the park a great option for a day out. Make this walk in the park a bit special by renting a two-seater recumbent bike and seeing the park from a different perspective. There are many different activities to be found here, but sometimes just bringing a nice picnic is enough.

Stranahan's Whiskey Distillery

Stranahan's Whiskey Distillery

Embark on a tour of Stranahan's Whiskey Distillery and experience the delicious and smooth American single malt whiskey, crafted in the heart of Colorado. Discover the intricate and fascinating process behind whiskey production through an entertaining and informative tour. You will also have the chance to sample a variety of their products, including delightful whiskey-based cocktails.

Clyfford Still Museum

Clyfford Still Museum

Visitors to this museum are in for a treat, as it offers a truly unique opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of Clyfford Still, an artist whose work has long been shrouded in mystery and kept hidden from public view. With this award-winning museum, you can finally gain insight into what inspired him and explore his art from a fresh perspective. It houses an extensive collection of nearly everything Clyfford Still created, allowing you to experience the full range of his creativity. Immerse yourself in nine stunning galleries of Still's art and discover more about this groundbreaking artist who forged his own distinctive style of painting.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the city's premier destination for all things natural history and science. With a wide range of exhibitions, a planetarium, and lectures, this museum invites visitors to delve into the fascinating world of science. Experience the wonders of the cosmos, marvel at dazzling gems and minerals, catch an IMAX film, and be awed by a planetarium show. If you're feeling brave, get up close to a T-Rex and witness its sheer power and majesty. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the world around us, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is sure to captivate and inspire.

Colorado State Capitol

Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol Building is the home of the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the Governor of Colorado and Lieutenant Governor of Colorado. An interesting fact about the building is that its interior is adorned with what is believed to be the entire known supply of Colorado Rose Onyx, a rare rose marble from a quarry near Beulah, Colorado. If you're interested in exploring the Colorado State Capitol building, free guided tours are available on weekdays at 10am, 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. However, please note that Capitol tours are limited to 20 people and operate on a first come, first served basis.

Forney Museum of Transportation

Forney Museum of Transportation

The Forney Museum of Transportation is home to a priceless and unique collection of more than 600 artifacts relating to historical transportation, including vintage cars, motorcycles, trains, and bicycles.

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