17 Fun Things to Do in Denver, Colorado (Must-Do Activities)

Whether you’re a local or planning a Denver vacation looking for fun activities, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share the most fun things to do in Denver, Colorado, with something for everyone.

From iconic Denver activities like exploring the botanic gardens and visiting the zoo to unique things to do, like DIY crafts at a bar and taking a spa day beer bath, you’re sure to find something perfect for you below.

We have ideas for families, friends, couples, and solo quality time. We’ll also answer common questions about fun Denver experiences, including what to do for a quick activity and how to spend a fun weekend in the Mile High City.

1. Stroll Around the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is known as the most beautiful gardens in Colorado and one of the best in the country. It’s ideal for a family-friendly activity or a day date.

It’s easy to spend a couple of hours exploring hundreds of exotic blooms, including rare orchids. There are multiple theme gardens and an amphitheater, where you can enjoy concerts during summer. 

2. Shop and Eat at Denver Union Station

If you haven’t been to Denver Union Station, it’s a must-visit! It’s a historic railway station known as “Denver’s Living Room” in the bustling downtown area. It has various unique shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s also a cool place to take pictures.

If you’re visiting Denver, you can also book a room at The Crawford Hotel in The Union Station for a lively atmosphere and unique accommodation.

3. Enjoy the Beer Scene

Denver is Colorado’s beer capital, and its beer scene is one of the best in the country. There are over a hundred breweries and taprooms around metro Denver.

You can take a guided brewery tour or explore on your own. River North Art District (RiNo) is ideal for walking around and visiting different breweries and other fun attractions.

Some of our favorite Denver breweries are:

• Crooked Stave
• Cerveceria Colorado
• Wynkoop Brewing Company
• Novel Strand Brewing Company
• Oskar Blues Grill & Brew
• Great Divide Brewing Company
• Woods Boss Brewing Company
• Platt Park Brewing Company

4. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

Another cool way to experience Denver’s delicious beer with a mix of relaxation is enjoying a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa, an award-winning Denver day spa. 

This is easily one of the most fun things to do in Denver if you want to treat yourself to self-care, create a new memory with your partner or friends, and enjoy local craft beer. 

Oakwell Beer Spa has a cozy taproom that serves beer, wine, kombucha, tea, and cider. You can also enjoy unique spa treatments, including Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, an Infrared Sauna, and a Zero Gravity Massage.

5. Explore Street Art

Denver has some of the most unique murals and street art throughout the city. Walking around different areas is one of the best ways to appreciate the art, take pictures, and see the city.

Walk around these areas to explore colorful street art:

• Art District on Santa Fe - A small area with art museums and galleries that’s nationally recognized for its art and cultural scene 
• Confluence Park - A smaller part of Lower Downtown (LoDo) and a pet-friendly area
• River North Art District (RiNo) Denver’s trendiest neighborhood with art, food, drinks, and shops
• Five Points - A laid-back neighborhood close to RiNo
• Sunnyside - A charming neighborhood with cafes, restaurants, and street art

6. Hang Out at the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most fun places to go in Denver for almost anyone. It covers 80 acres of a zoological garden with many unique animals, including fish, penguins, and llamas.

The zoo is a non-profit and provides authentic homes for animals. You can also attend daily demonstrations and talks.

7. See the City by Scooter or Bike

If you’re up for an adventure around the Mile High City, you can rent a scooter from rideshare services like Lyft or a bicycle from bike stations around the city. Some of our favorite areas to explore are Cherry Creek North, Four Mile Historic Park, and Washington Park.

8. Go to a Show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

If you’ve never been to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, you’re in for a treat. This iconic open-air amphitheater is built into a rock structure, which you can see at any time, even when there isn’t a show. 

If you can, see a live performance during spring, summer, or fall for one of the most unique experiences in Denver. You can also visit Red Rocks Park to explore nature trails and appreciate the incredible scenery. 

9. Do Crafts at Upstairs Circus

DIY crafts at Upstairs Circus is one of our favorite girls or date night activities in Denver. You can enjoy drinks while getting crafty. Upstairs Circus has fun crafts you can choose from, including home decor, jewelry, and pet accessories.

10. Play Dodgeball at Archery Games Denver

One of the most fun things to do in Denver if you’re competitive is play dodgeball with a twist at Archery Games Denver. Two teams get competitive with bows and foam-tipped arrows for a unique game of dodgeball.

You can go to Archery Games Denver with a group or join teams when you arrive. Kids over seven years old equally enjoy Archery Games Denver just as much as the adults do!

11. Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Get adventurous and enjoy picturesque views from the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. This 49-mile byway is just outside Denver and is the highest paved road in North America, just over 14,000 feet above sea level. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty while staying close to Denver.

12. Visit the Denver Firefighters Museum

The Denver Firefighters Museum is one of the most fun places to go in Denver, especially for children, firefighters, and history buffs. The museum is in downtown Denver and has four galleries that feature artifacts, photos, and documents that date back to the 1800s. There are also regular events, classes, and activities.

13. Enjoy Wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem

We always love having wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem, a lively and trendy winery and taproom. The winery offers daily wine tastings and tours. There are also regular events, including comedy, yoga, and trivia.

14. Go to the Molly Brown House

The Molly Brown House is another interesting museum for history enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys learning experiences. It’s a Victorian-style home where Margaret “Molly” Brown lived. Molly is well-known for surviving the Titanic but was also an American philanthropist and activist.

15. Go to the Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol building is another historical site that offers beautiful city views. The building and grounds are immaculate, and you can climb to the dome for a unique viewpoint of Denver. You can take a self-guided or free guided tour of the Colorado State Capitol.

16. Grab Sweet Treats From Temper Chocolates

If you have a sweet tooth while enjoying fun things to do in Denver, be sure to check out Temper Chocolates. Not only do they sell the best gourmet chocolates, but they’re located in The Denver Central Market, which is a unique marketplace in the RiNo district.

17. Enjoy Drinks and Views at 54thirty Rooftop

When it’s time for a drink, 54thirty Rooftop is the place to go. This is Denver’s highest open-air bar, where you can enjoy picturesque views of Denver’s skyline. Their cocktails and small bites are also delicious!

Fun Things to Do in Denver: FAQs

Make the most of your experience with answers to common questions about Denver’s fun activities!

What is the most fun thing in Denver for kids?

The Denver Zoo and the Denver Firefighters Museum are fun activities for kids. Not only do they both have kid-friendly activities, but they’re also interesting for the grown-ups.

What are the most fun adult activities in Denver?

Our go-to fun activities for adults in Denver are brewery hopping, relaxing at Oakwell Beer Spa, and exploring Red Rocks Park.

Does Denver have a nightlife?

There are so many fun things to do in Denver at night, from dinner and drinks to comedy shows and nightclubs. We enjoy having dinner and drinks in RiNo, then heading to Comedy Works or having more drinks in Larimer Square or LoDo.

Fun Things to Do In Denver: Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful and are excited to enjoy fun activities in Denver. From visiting unique museums and exploring trendy neighborhoods to relaxing at a beer spa and spending time outdoors, there’s something for everyone in the Mile High City!

If you want to enjoy a fun spa experience in Denver, book your spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa.