Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Known for its scenic beauty, friendly locals, and thriving arts and music scenes, Denver has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, food and drinks, shopping, accommodation, and transportation options in Denver.
History and Culture in Denver
Denver has a rich history and culture that make it one of the most interesting cities in the United States. Founded in 1858 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, Denver quickly became a hub for miners, settlers, and entrepreneurs seeking their fortunes in the Old West.
The city has come a long way since those early days, and its growth and development are reflected in its architecture and landmarks. One of the most iconic of these is the Colorado State Capitol, which boasts stunning architecture and offers panoramic views of the city from its dome. The Capitol’s interior is equally impressive, with marble floors, soaring ceilings, and intricate murals.
Denver’s history is also celebrated in numerous museums and galleries. The Denver Art Museum houses an impressive collection of American Indian and Western art, while the Molly Brown House Museum offers a glimpse into the life of Titanic survivor and socialite Margaret Brown. The Black American West Museum and Heritage Center is another must-visit destination, which celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the settling of the West.
But Denver’s culture is more than just its history. The city is also known for its thriving arts and music scenes. The Denver Performing Arts Complex is the second-largest performing arts center in the world, hosting a wide range of theater, dance, and music performances throughout the year. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre, located just outside the city, is a natural amphitheater that has hosted some of the biggest names in music since the 1940s.
Top Attractions
Denver is a city full of top attractions that will make your visit truly memorable. Here are some of the most popular and must-see attractions in the Mile High City:
- Denver Botanic Gardens: This 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city boasts a stunning collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, see outdoor art exhibits, and attend seasonal events.
- Union Station: This beautifully restored historic train station is now a hub of activity, featuring top-notch restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s also the starting point for the Denver Microbrew Tour, a popular walking tour of some of the city’s best craft breweries.
- Denver Zoo: Home to over 4,000 animals from 600 species, the Denver Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers of all ages. Highlights include the Predator Ridge exhibit, the Tropical Discovery rainforest exhibit, and the interactive Giraffe Encounter.
- Coors Field: Catching a game at this iconic baseball stadium is a must-do for sports fans. Located in the heart of the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood, Coors Field offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and an energetic atmosphere.
- Mount Evans Scenic Byway: A drive along this scenic byway is a truly unforgettable experience. The highest paved road in North America, it takes visitors up to the summit of Mount Evans, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Located just outside of Denver, this natural amphitheater is renowned for its stunning acoustics and has hosted some of the biggest names in music since the 1940s. The park itself also offers numerous hiking trails and picnic areas.
Food and Drinks
Denver’s food and drink scene is thriving, with a wide range of options that will satisfy any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining, casual eats, or craft beer, Denver has it all. Here are some of the top options for food and drink in the Mile High City:
- Craft Beer: Denver is known as the “Napa Valley of Beer” for good reason. With over 100 breweries in the area, there’s no shortage of top-notch craft beer to sample. Some of the most popular breweries include Great Divide Brewing Co., New Belgium Brewing Co., and Odell Brewing Co.
- Farm-to-Table: Denver’s emphasis on local, sustainable food has made it a haven for farm-to-table restaurants. One of the most popular is Mercantile Dining & Provision, which sources ingredients from local farms and offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently. Other popular farm-to-table options include Root Down and The Kitchen.
- International Cuisine: Denver’s diverse population has brought a wide range of international cuisines to the city. Some of the best options include Safta, which serves up modern Israeli cuisine, Sushi Den, which offers some of the best sushi in the city, and Rioja, which serves up delicious Spanish-inspired dishes.
- Food Halls: If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, Denver’s food halls are a great option. The Denver Central Market is a popular destination for foodies, with vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to artisanal ice cream. Other great food halls include Avanti Food & Beverage and Zeppelin Station.
- Distilleries: Denver’s craft spirits scene is also booming, with a number of distilleries offering tours and tastings. Some of the most popular options include Leopold Bros., Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey, and Peach Street Distillers.
Shopping
Denver offers a wide variety of shopping options that cater to every taste and budget. From high-end boutiques to vintage stores, there’s something for everyone in the Mile High City. Here are some of the top shopping destinations in Denver:
- Cherry Creek Shopping Center: This upscale shopping center features over 160 stores, including high-end brands like Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. There are also numerous dining options and a movie theater on site.
- 16th Street Mall: This pedestrian mall in the heart of downtown Denver is home to over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to stroll, shop, and people-watch.
- Larimer Square: This historic block of Victorian buildings has been transformed into a trendy shopping and dining destination. It’s home to boutiques, art galleries, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
- South Broadway: This eclectic neighborhood is known for its vintage stores, record shops, and independent boutiques. It’s a great place to find unique, one-of-a-kind items.
- Union Station Neighborhood: The area around Union Station has undergone a revitalization in recent years, with a number of new shops and restaurants opening up. It’s a great place to shop for gifts and souvenirs.
- Cherry Creek North: This neighborhood north of Cherry Creek Shopping Center is home to over 300 independently owned boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to find unique, locally made items.
Accommodation
Finding the right accommodation in Denver can make or break your trip. Luckily, the Mile High City offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Denver:
- Luxury Hotels: Denver is home to a number of luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities and service. Some of the most popular options include The Ritz-Carlton, The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, and Four Seasons Hotel Denver. These hotels offer everything from world-class spas to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Boutique Hotels: For a more unique and personalized experience, consider staying at one of Denver’s boutique hotels. Some of the top options include The Maven Hotel, The Crawford Hotel, and The Ramble Hotel. These hotels offer stylish accommodations and amenities like on-site bars and restaurants.
- Budget-Friendly Hotels: If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in Denver. Some of the best options include Motel 6 Denver Central, La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Denver Central, and Days Inn by Wyndham Denver Downtown. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price.
- Vacation Rentals: For a more homey experience, consider renting a vacation home or apartment in Denver. Sites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment or a spacious house.
Getting Around
Getting around in Denver is easy and convenient, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system and numerous other options. Here are some of the best ways to get around in Denver:
- Public Transportation: Denver’s public transportation system, RTD, includes buses and light rail trains that serve the city and surrounding areas. The light rail is a great option for getting to and from Denver International Airport, as well as for traveling around the city. Fares are reasonable and the system is easy to use.
- Biking: Denver is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing programs around the city, such as B-Cycle or Lime. Biking is a great way to explore Denver’s many neighborhoods and parks.
- Walking: Denver is a very walkable city, with numerous pedestrian-friendly streets and neighborhoods. Walking is a great way to see the city’s sights and stay active on vacation.
- Ride-Sharing: If you don’t want to deal with parking or public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Denver. They’re a great option for getting around the city quickly and conveniently.
- Car Rental: If you want to explore the city and surrounding areas on your own schedule, renting a car is a good option. There are numerous car rental companies to choose from, and parking is generally plentiful and affordable.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has given you a good idea of all the amazing things that Denver has to offer. From its fascinating history and culture to its incredible outdoor spaces and bustling city life, Denver truly has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and get ready to experience all the excitement and beauty of the Mile High City!
READ MORE HERE: Things to Do in Denver, Colorado