11 Things to Do in Denver in May 2025 for a Fun Experience

This May, there’s a lot going on in Denver! From outdoor activities and holiday celebrations to a relaxing spa experience and live music, there’s something for everyone. Below, we’ll share the best things to do in Denver in May.

1. Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens

One of the best outdoor activities in Denver is exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens, especially in May when colorful plants are in bloom. It’s a great way to spend a few hours outside, take pictures, and enjoy a relaxing walk.

There are also special spring exhibits and events, including seasonal tours, outdoor yoga, and flower happy hour.

2. Attend the Cinco de Mayo Festival

Denver’s longest-running Cinco de Mayo Festival is on May 3rd and 4th at Civic Center Park. This massive event is a fun way to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Mexican culture.

The weekend will be filled with live music across three stages, diverse food vendors, and festive parades. There will also be kid-friendly activities. Leashed pets are welcome, too!

3. Enjoy Self-Care at Oakwell Beer Spa

Treat yourself to self-care this May in Denver at Oakwell Beer Spa, a beer-inspired day spa. Oakwell Beer Spa is a craft beer taproom and spa that offers a unique and relaxing experience. Sip on locally brewed craft beer or other refreshing beverages while enjoying your spa day. 

When you book a spa day, you get access to a private spa suite for up to two people, where you can enjoy Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, an Infrared Sauna, and a rain shower. There are various packages to fit your needs, whether you’re planning a spa date, relaxation with a friend, or a spa day for a larger group.

4. Celebrate Mother’s Day

There are many fun ways to celebrate mom, including the following activities and events on Mother’s Day weekend:

• 5K walk or run - May 11th at 9 AM at City Park
• Brunch - May 11th, between 10 am & 4 PM at the Downtown Aquarium
• Cooking class - May 10th or 11th at 11 AM at Stir Cooking School
• Spa experience - May 10th or 11th, between 8:30 am & 9:30 PM at Oakwell Beer Spa
• Jazz and dinner - May 11th at 4:30 or 7 PM at Nocturne Jazz and Supper Club

5. Catch a Colorado Rockies Game at Coors Field

Baseball season is back, and watching a Colorado Rockies game is a great way to enjoy warmer weather this May. Home games are at Coors Field in Downtown Denver with beautiful mountain scenery in the distance.

Catch a Colorado Rockies home game this May on the following dates:

• 6th & 7th at 6:40 PM
• 8th at 1:10 PM
• 9th & 10th at 6:40 PM
• 11th at 1:10 PM
• 19th, 20th, & 21st at 6:40 PM
• 22nd at 1:10 PM
• 23rd at 6:40 PM
• 24th at 2:10 PM
• 25th at 1:10 PM 

6. Go Hiking at Red Rocks Park

While Red Rocks Park is beautiful year-round, May offers the perfect temperature for hiking or running. There are several trails, most of which are easy to moderate and run through beautiful red rock formations, valleys, and meadows. In May, you’ll also find wildflowers in bloom at Red Rocks.

When visiting the park, you can also check out the Trading Post, which has unique Red Rocks souvenirs, apparel, and historical memorabilia. 

7. Listen to Live Music at Red Rocks 

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is also a great place to see live music in Denver. Its iconic open-air amphitheater is a popular spot for notable artists. 

This May, you can see Jason Isbell on May 3rd, Leon Bridges on May 23rd, and Brad Paisley on May 24th, among others throughout the month. There are also comedians performing at Red Rocks this May, including Tina Fey and Amy Poehler on May 1st and Matt Rife on May 4th.

8. See Local Art at the Denver Art Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Denver in May on rainy days or to enjoy the arts, the Denver Art Museum is one of the best places to visit. As one of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago, it’s one of the most popular Denver tourist attractions.

There are over 70,000 diverse works from across the centuries and the world. There are also regular events and tours during May, including free entry on May 13th, 2025.

9. Visit the South Pearl Street Farmers Market

The South Pearl Street Farmers Market opens on May 4th, every Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM. This large market features many local vendors. Shop for fresh produce, prepared foods, handmade goods, and more. You can also enjoy live music while you shop.

10. Bike or Stroll Along the Cherry Creek Regional Trail

Escape the city’s hustle without leaving Denver at the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. The paved trail runs about 50 miles, starting in Downtown Denver. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the warm weather, take in the river views, and go for a peaceful walk, run, or bike ride.

11. Take a Day Trip to Boulder or Golden

If you’re looking to take a day trip this May, Boulder and Golden are both great options less than an hour from Denver. 

Both cities are at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and offer fun hiking, shopping, and brewery experiences. Golden is best for a quiet, smaller-town vibe, while Boulder is larger and has more to do.

Things to Do Denver in May: Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful and are excited to enjoy Denver this May. With so many unique things to do, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re looking to enjoy nature, relax at the spa, or listen to live music.

If you’re in need of self-care and ready to start planning your activities, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa!