Best Outdoor Activities in Denver With Something For Everyone

There are so many fun things to do in Denver, especially outside. Denver’s scenery is beautiful, and there are relaxing and exciting ways to explore its nature. In this article, we’ve compiled the best outdoor activities in Denver with insider tips from locals. 

While there are many iconic things to see and do, like visiting the Botanic Gardens, we’re also sharing hidden gems, including where to see the best street art and sunset. Whether you want to relax, hike, or explore the Mile High City, there’s something for everyone, including children, families, and adults.

Continue reading for insider tips on the best outdoor activities from our team at Oakwell Beer Spa, an award-winning day spa in Denver.

Hang Out at Confluence Park

Confluence Park is an urban space in Lower Downtown. It's the perfect place to walk and see Cherry Creek and Platt Park River. It's also nice for unwinding while sitting by the water, listening to nature, and people-watching. 

There are also many great restaurants and breweries near Confluence Park. We love Cerveceria Colorado, a fun brewery with delicious, Mexican-inspired beers.

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Denver, and for good reason. It’s one of the most diverse gardens in the nation, with 24 acres of beautiful plants year-round.

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful place to walk around and take pictures. There are also events at the gardens for people of all ages, including yoga, kid-friendly activities, and holiday displays. The summer concerts are also really fun, and you can bring a picnic and drinks with you.

Rent a Swan Pedal Boat at City Park

City Park is one of the best parks in Denver if you're looking for a lot to do. It has large green spaces, picnic areas, and lakeside trails. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo are at City Park, so it's easy to spend a day here.

One of the most exciting things to do at City Park is to rent a swan pedal boat, which makes for a memorable, family-friendly activity or date experience. Boat rentals are available during the day and at night, and we highly recommend a sunset swan boat ride for picture-perfect scenery!

Go on a Bike Bar Tour

A Bike Bar Tour is one of Denver's most fun adult activities when the weather is warm. You'll take a pedal-powered bar around Denver to explore some of the best bars and breweries.

The tour will either take you through Lower Downtown (LoDo) or River North Arts District (RiNo), both of which are popular areas in Denver. You can bring food and drinks with you, but you'll also make several stops along the way.

Whether you’re looking for a unique way to see Denver or planning an exciting bachelor or bachelorette party, a Bike Bar Tour is a must-try!

Have a Picnic at Cheesman Park

Cheesman Park is another beautiful park in Denver. The park offers a peaceful getaway from the city, and its large space with grassy areas and benches is perfect for a picnic.

The park is also conveniently located close to coffee shops, restaurants, and cocktail bars, making it a great place to hang out for the day.

Explore the Street Art

Exploring the unique street art is easily one of our favorite Denver outdoor activities. It’s fun to walk around, see the art, and take pictures while stopping along the way at shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

You can find colorful murals and art throughout most of the city, including these areas:

• Confluence Park: a pet-friendly area in LoDo
• RiNo: a lively, trendy district
• Five Points: a laid-back neighborhood in RiNo, where you can also stop for a beer or spa treatment at Oakwell Beer Spa
• Art District on Santa Fe: a nationally recognized art and cultural scene 
• Sunnyside: a charming neighborhood and ideal place to stay for a Denver vacation

Watch Baseball at Coors Field

One of the most classic outdoor activities in Denver is watching a baseball game at Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies. The Rockies play from March through September, so it's the perfect spring and summer activity.

The stadium is conveniently located in downtown Denver, so it’s easy to explore the city before or after the game. 

Go to Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an iconic, open-air theater with a park. It’s just outside of Denver in Morrison, Colorado, and it’s one of the best places to see live music or comedy during late spring, summer, or fall. 

You can also explore Red Rocks Park for a free outdoor activity year-round. The park has various hiking trails and is surrounded by magical red rock formations. 

You can also see the unique theater space and the Red Rocks Hall of Fame at no cost, whether or not you’re attending a show.

See a Live Show at Fiddler’s Green

Fiddler’s Green is the largest outdoor amphitheater in metro Denver and one of the best places to see music in Colorado. From May through September, you can enjoy live music and some of the biggest names at Fiddler’s Green. The 18,000-person capacity space has tons of seating, grassy slopes, and stunning mountain views. 

Go White Water Rafting in Idaho Springs

If you're an adventure enthusiast looking to get away from the city, we highly recommend whitewater rafting in Idaho Springs, about half an hour from Denver.

Colorado Adventure Center offers fun whitewater rafting experiences from early May to late August. There are different opportunities for all experience levels and ages seven years and older, from scenic floats to adventurous rafting excursions. 

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of our favorite day trips from Denver. It’s the perfect place to spend time outdoors any time of year. It’s a 415-square-mile park with meadows, mountains, and alpine lakes.

No matter what time of year you go, there’s always something to do at Rocky Mountain National Park, including hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and even snow sports during winter.

If you're going to the park during winter, check for road closures, as some roads' accessibility is weather-dependent.

Best Outdoor Activities in Denver, Conclusion

We hope this article has inspired you to explore the best outdoor things to do in Denver. We love getting outside, and Denver has no shortage of fun activities, from picnics in the park and exploring street art to outdoor concerts and adventures.

When you’re ready to go indoors for relaxation, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa.