Denver in Spring: Unique Activities and Events for 2023
Trade in snow-capped mountains for colorful foliage as you spend time in Denver, CO this spring. In this guide, we’re going to share unique things to do in Denver in April and May to help you plan an exciting experience.
While it’s incredible all year long, Denver in spring is a tourist hot spot due to ideal temperatures and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re planning a Spring Break in Denver with your best friends, looking for family-friendly activities, or planning a date night, there’s something for everyone!
What is there to do in Denver in Spring?
So many things! Whether you’re a local looking to enjoy your city or traveling to Denver in Spring, we’ve got the best suggestions for your itinerary. While there are seemingly endless possibilities to enjoy Denver, Colorado in April and May, here are our top picks.
Cherry Creek Regional Trail
There aren’t many better ways to appreciate Denver’s fantastic spring weather than on the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. This picture-perfect trail is 40-miles long and begins in Downtown Denver. Most of the trail is paved, while some areas are gravel. All parts are surrounded by Colorado beauty.
Outdoor enthusiasts love this slice of Colorado paradise as you can experience urban landscapes, local parks, and the suburbs surrounding the trail. There are also some campgrounds and recreational activities as you make your way to the Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Civic Center Eats
Foodies unite every Thursday at the Civic Center Park from May through October. This delicious event aims to take over typical lunchtime ruts with some of Denver’s most mouthwatering fare.
With an impressive 70 different Denver local cuisines, you can find exactly what you’re craving at the Civic Center Eats. Not only that, but you get to appreciate the historical and iconic views at this local park.
Fun fact: The Civic Center Park is a National Historic Landmark in Denver, Colorado.
Denver Zoo
Are you looking for something the kids will love while hanging out in Denver this spring? Look no further than the Denver Zoo! This remarkable 84-acre zoo has over 3,500 animals, including the African Lion and Northern White-cheeked Gibbon.
And, since you’re visiting Denver in Spring, you can take advantage of the “BFF Days” held on 3/27, 4/16, 5/22, and 6/11. Denver Zoo members can bring a friend along for free on these dates. You can also enter the Denver Zoo Free Days raffle to see if you get lucky!
Denver Botanic Gardens
While the Denver May weather gets warm, you definitely want to spend some time outdoors at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Enjoy strolling through 23 acres of beauty that’s filled with color during spring.
You can find thousands of theme gardens with various plant species, diverse educational opportunities, and picture-perfect scenery. It’s no wonder the Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the most popular Denver attractions!
Cinco de Mayo Denver
If you’re interested in one of the most fun experiences in Denver in spring, it’s celebrating Cinco De Mayo at the Cinco de Mayo “Celebrate Culture” Festival. Embrace the Latino culture at this massive festival in a fun-filled, memorable way.
The event includes two giant stages, where a blend of Latin music is displayed, including salsa and Cumbia. While the beautiful music will leave you dancing the day away, there are also a ton of activities to enjoy, including a taco-eating contest and the infamous lowrider car show.
Denver Day of Rock
This one’s for music and culture lovers! The Denver Day of Rock supports local non-profits while giving you a glimpse into Denver’s colorful culture. This fun, family-friendly festival takes place on June 3rd, 2023, in LoDo/Downtown Denver.
This experience unites locals and tourists to gather and enjoy musicians from across the globe. Genres vary, and you can also find other activities like food vendors and trucks, crafts for kids, and a silent disco.
Denver Climbing Company
If you’re a thrill-seeker itching to get your heart rate pumping, we recommend visiting the Denver Climbing Company. There are climbing sessions for beginners and advanced users alike.
Regardless of your skill level, one thing’s for sure: you’re bound to have the time of your life exploring Denver, Colorado, in an enthralling way at Denver Climbing Company.
If you don’t mind hanging from the side of a mountain while enjoying the crisp Denver April weather, you’re sure to appreciate this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Oakwell Beer Spa
If you’re looking to unwind, be sure to check out Oakwell Beer Spa! This unique day spa is the perfect place to kick back and relax.
Enjoy local craft beer (and other beverages) while you indulge in luxury spa amenities. Oakwell Beer Spa’s brew-inspired treatments are perfect for anyone interested in a memorable experience and spa day benefits.
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is one of the best things to do in Denver for thrill-seekers looking for an out-of-the-box adventure. This four-story-high building brings 79 artistic collections from over 110 Colorado natives. The entirety of the building is covered in neon exhibits, from pizza parlor recreations to alien bodegas and so much more.
This experience goes beyond traditional “art museum” vibes. Visitors come face to face with a slew of exotic situations, including crawl spaces, steep stairways, strobe lights, and fog effects. Oh, and don’t forget the magnetic music!
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Collectively deemed as “one of the most beautiful outdoor venues across the US,” the Red Rocks Amphitheater is a must for anyone’s bucket list while exploring Denver in Spring. Although it’s about half an hour from Downtown Denver, it’s well worth the drive!
This beautifully-designed amphitheater features striking sandstone jetting out from both sides of the main stage, where you can enjoy various concerts. Can’t make it to a show? Red Rocks Amphitheater is still worth visiting, especially during the gorgeous Denver April weather. And, it’s an excellent photo-op!
Denver Pub Crawl
If you’re looking for a fun experience for your evening out or Spring Break in Denver, add the Denver Pub Crawl to your itinerary. You can partake in themed crawls every Friday and Saturday in spring (and year-round!).
Explore Downtown Denver, enjoy drink specials, meet new people, and play fun games at every stop.
Farmers Market
While most Denver farmers markets aren’t open in spring, the Southwest Plaza Farmers Market begins on April 30th. It’s also about half an hour from Denver, and it’s a great spot to visit if you also plan to check out the amphitheater.
Enjoy the lovely spring weather as you shop for local produce, cheese curds, kombucha, and more.
Beyond Laser Light Experience
Who said ravers had to have all of the fun? If you’re a fan of bedazzling lights and want to enjoy an illuminating voyage, consider checking out the Beyond Laser Light Experience in Denver.
This impressive one-hour light show combines lasers, music, and accompanying guided meditation to ensure the space is a realm of positivity, relaxation, and rejuvenation. It’s even been ranked the #1 thing to do in Denver!
This vibrant light show is safe, effective, and fun for anyone, including children. Kids and adults can enjoy the fun arcade and media room when the show is over.
Denver Food Tour
Discover Denver “one bite at a time” with a Denver food tour. The Mile High City’s food scene is unlike any other, and this guided tour takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey to award-winning local restaurants.
As you eat your way through Denver, you can also learn about local history, come across vibrant street art, and explore unique architecture.
Enjoy Denver in Spring!
With fantastic weather, colorful blooms, and exciting activities, it’s easy to appreciate all that Denver has to offer in spring. Whether you’re a local or a vacationer looking for things to do in Denver, there’s something for everyone in The Mile High City.
Interested in tips on how to spend the perfect day in Denver? Check out this 24-hour itinerary!
