Fun Things to Do in Denver, Co (2024 Events and Activities)

As one of the best cities in the world, Denver is full of memorable things to see and do. In this article, we'll share fun activities in Denver, Colorado, for a great experience.

From off-the-beaten-path attractions like a beer spa to popular activities like exploring Red Rocks Park, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Mile High City, you’re sure to at least find a few items below to add to your bucket list.

We’ll also answer common questions, including what the city is famous for and how to spend a Denver vacation.

Denver: What to Do for a Memorable Experience

In this Denver travel guide, we’ll discover the best of the Mile High City for families, friends, couples, and solo explorers. We'll also share a few day trip experiences for those looking to escape the city.

Graffiti Art Tour

One of the most remarkable ways to see Denver is by taking the Graffiti Art Tour around the River North Art District (RiNo).

On this 2-hour walking tour, you can discover Denver’s best street art and learn stories behind the artwork and neighborhoods. You can also learn more about local historical, political, and social contexts for an authentic experience.

The end of your tour takes you to the iconic Denver Central Market.

Denver Central Market

Whether you stop here after the Graffiti Art Tour or visit on your own, the Denver Central Market is easily one of the most fun things to do in Denver.

Denver Central Market is a gourmet food hall and marketplace where you can eat, drink, socialize, and shop. The vibe is like no other, and there are countless photo ops with a trendy atmosphere and food that looks as good as it tastes!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most iconic Denver activities.

This massive, incredible national park is well worth the hour-and-a-half drive from Denver. It covers 415 square miles and boasts meadows, lakes, mountain peaks, trails, and wildlife.

Every season offers a different, unforgettable experience. This is the ideal day trip from the city, with ample opportunity to enjoy nature.

Oakwell Beer Spa

Oakwell Beer Spa is an award-winning day spa and offers one of Denver’s most unique and relaxing activities. It’s the perfect place to kick back and indulge in self-care while enjoying local beer and treating yourself to wellness benefits.

Guests can enjoy a cozy taproom oasis that serves local craft beer and other beverages, a private Beer Bath Hydrotherapy room, and a Relaxation Lounge with massage chairs.

Oakwell Beer Spa welcomes walk-in guests to hang out in the taproom and Relaxation Lounge, or you can book a spa day online for a rejuvenating experience like no other.

Molly Brown House Museum

If you enjoy history, the Molly Brown House Museum is a must-visit. It’s dedicated to showcasing Denver’s identity by telling the story of Margaret (Molly) Brown’s activism, philanthropy, and passion through educational programs, exhibits, and stewardship.

Molly Brown was a Titanic survivor and so much more. She's also known for promoting women's rights, being the first woman to run for congress, and other admirable feats, which visitors can learn during a tour at the Molly Brown House Museum.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is considered one of the best gardens in the nation. It offers a remarkable experience for just about anyone, even if you've already been. 

You can expect a different atmosphere each season, with plenty to see and do throughout the Denver Botanic Gardens. There are various gardens spanning over 23 acres with different themes, many of which have vibrant colors year-round. 

The Denver Botanic Gardens also has a family-friendly concert series from June through August during summer. There are also other regular events, educational programs, and live performances. 

Pikes Peak

If you’re a nature enthusiast, Pikes Peak or “America’s Mountain” is a must-visit. It’s just over an hour from Denver near Colorado Springs and is one of Colorado’s most picture-perfect destinations.

Pikes Peak is the highest summit of the southern front range of the Rocky Mountains. Spend the day driving towards the top and exploring picture-perfect sites. From sledding to hiking and biking, there’s something to do all year long in the Pikes Peak region.

Pikes Peak is open year-round, weather permitting, and you need reservations if you visit during summer. There are also shuttles available in June and July for easy exploration.

Red Rocks Park

The iconic Red Rocks Park is a paradise for nature lovers just 10 miles west of Denver.

Red Rocks Park has almost a thousand acres of meadows, wildlife habitats, and dinosaur fossils to discover. There are also various trails throughout the park for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

The park has free admission and is open year-round from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunrise.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, also located at Red Rocks Park, is an open-air theater built into a rock structure. It’s one of the most magical places in the United States to see a show. 

Concerts and comedy shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are usually from early April through October. 2024 shows include Jason Isbell, Lord Huron, and Matt Rife.

You can also do "Yoga on the Rocks" every Saturday morning during summer.

The Infinite Monkey Theorem

If you’re wondering what to do in Denver while enjoying local wine, be sure to check out The Infinite Monkey Theorem.

This industrial-chic wine bar is a fun spot for tasting delicious local wine in a unique atmosphere. There are also regular events at The Infinite Monkey Theorem, including comedy shows, trivia, and yoga with wine. 

16th Street Mall

If you enjoy shopping and dining, 16th Street Mall is the place to go. It’s in the heart of Denver's downtown and has a mile-long pedestrian promenade with over 250 shops, restaurants, and bars. You can stroll to explore or hop on the complimentary shuttle that goes from one end to the other.

Meow Wolf

One of the most fun things to do in Denver is to visit Meow Wolf, a 4-story immersive walk-through art exhibition. 

At Meow Wolf, you can explore interactive rooms, eccentric sculptures, and a story arc. Have your camera ready for this art museum unlike any other!

You’ll need to book your visit ahead of time. We recommend spending up to a few hours at Meow Wolf.

Colorado Sports Hall of Fame

Sports fans can’t miss a visit to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. This hall of fame and museum honors Colorado athletes through various recognitions and exhibits. 

You can also take a guided tour of the Mile High Stadium.

Coors Field Sports Game or Concert

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or not, Coors Field always offers a fun time. Coors Field is a baseball stadium in downtown Denver and the home field for the Colorado Rockies baseball team. 

You can enjoy baseball from March through September at Coors Field. The stadium also hosts concerts. 2024 concerts include:

• Billy Joel on July 12th
• Kane Brown on September 6th
• Green Day on September 7th
• Def Leppard & Journey on September 8th

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Driving along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the best Denver activities outside the city. It’s about half an hour away and is perfect for enjoying nature.

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a 49-mile National Forest Scenic Highway and Colorado’s highest paved road. It takes you 7,000 feet above sea level and past some of Colorado’s most picturesque scenery. 

On your drive, you can stop and enjoy the views – mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and glacier valleys. You might also see mountain goats, sheep herds, uncommon birds, and stunning wildflowers.

Due to weather, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is usually closed from Labor Day to Memorial Day.

Colorado State Capitol

Whether you’re a history buff or want to see stunning city views, the Colorado State Capitol is well worth checking out.

Guests can take free guided tours of this beautifully designed historic building that was built in the 1800s. Be sure to climb to the dome to catch the views! 

Denver Milk Market

Foodies love the delicious experience at the Denver Milk Market. This vibrant venue hosts various dine-in and take-out vendors 7 days a week, morning, day, and night.
The Denver Milk Market serves local and global cuisine, including pizza, bao buns, and burgers. You can also shop and drink at the market. There’s something for everyone!

Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States, with some of the best live shows in Colorado.

There are 10 performance spaces for concerts, plays, and other events, with multiple shows on most days in 2024. The Denver Performing Arts Complex also has dining options, from casual eateries to upscale fine dining.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Get away from the city and step into nature just a few miles northeast of downtown Denver at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It’s free to visit and covers almost 16,000 acres of National Wildlife Refuge.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal is a hidden gem and one of the best places in Colorado to explore nature. It’s home to bison, deer, songbirds, prairie dogs, and more. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs

Although it might seem like an unassuming hotdog joint, Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs is one of Denver’s most unique restaurants. It even made an appearance on celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain’s travel food show, No Reservations.

Enjoy biker vibes, distinctive hot dogs, and microbrews at Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs. It’s open daily for lunch and dinner and is one of the best late-night food spots in Denver.

Kaladi Coffee Roasters

If you like coffee, we can’t suggest visiting Kaladi Coffee Roasters enough.

It’s a lively roastery that serves delicious organically-grown coffee roasted in-house. Kaladi is the perfect spot to appreciate a simple vibe with diverse drinks and tasty snacks.

Tattered Cover Book Store

Tattered Cover is the largest independent bookstore in Colorado and a book lover’s favorite spot. There are eight locations in the Denver area. Two of Denver's most popular stores are at Union Station and next to City Park.

You can find new and used books, apparel, gifts, and more at Tattered Cover.

Craft Beer Tour

Denver is a beer hub, and a craft beer tour is easily one of the most fun ways to explore the best beer in Denver.

You can book a guided tour with a local guide like Denver Microbrew, or you can take yourself on a tour to explore the best of Denver’s beer scene. Some of our favorites are Crooked Stave, Odell Brewing Brewhouse, and Oakwell Beer Spa. 

Adrift Tiki Bar

If you like cool cocktail bars, Adrift is one of the best in Denver. It’s a tropical-themed tiki bar that serves rum-centric, island-style drinks and Polynesian-inspired food.

Adrift is a fun place to go on a date or with a group of friends. Its stylish decor makes it one of Denver's top Instagrammable spots.

Union Station for Shopping and Dining

Union Station, a historic railway station, is one of the most popular places in Denver. It's known as "Denver's Living Room" and offers a fun experience for anyone who enjoys shopping and eating. There are various restaurants, bars, and shops at Union Station. 

Denver's Union Station is in the heart of LoDo (lower downtown) and has a hotel, The Crawford Hotel, ideal for visitors who want to stay in the city center.

Denver Zoo

Almost everyone loves visiting the Denver Zoo, and it’s the perfect activity for families, friends, and couples.

The Denver Zoo is an 80-acre zoological garden and non-profit organization that helps provide loving, authentic homes for animals. There are also regular events, including “Animal Talks” and “BFF Days.”

There’s a daily limit on visitors, so be sure to purchase your tickets online before you go.

City Park Jazz in the Summer

City Park is one of Denver’s most popular spots, where you can enjoy green spaces, a beautiful

lake, and a museum. And during summer, you can also enjoy jazz concerts.

Head to City Park on Sunday evenings during June, July, and August for a free jazz concert.

Five Points Jazz Festival (June 8th, 2024)

Keep the jazz going at the Five Points Jazz Festival on June 8th, 2024.

The annual Five Points Jazz Festival has taken place for the last 20 years and is one of our favorite cultural events in Denver. It's the perfect time and place to appreciate art, music, and culture. Best of all, it's free!

Holidays in Denver

Some of the most memorable and fun things to do happen during the holiday season and winter in Denver. From local events to unique holiday celebrations, there's something for everyone.

Some of our favorite things to do in Denver during the holidays include:

• Ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink
• Going to the Winter Wonderland at Cherry Creek North
• Relaxing in a warm beer bath at Oakwell Beer Spa
• Snowboarding at the Ruby Hill Rail Yard
• Taking a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

Denver: What to Do (FAQs)

Make the most of fun things to do in Denver with answers to common questions.

Are there fun activities in Denver?

There are many fun things to do in Denver. With so many popular and lesser-known activities and sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the most fun things to do in Denver include:

• Explore the park or watch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
• Enjoy an interactive art experience at Meow Wolf.
• Relax and enjoy local beer at The Beer Spa.
• Eat unique and delicious food at the Denver Milk Park.
• Take a drive on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
• Experience Denver’s beer scene with a brewery tour.

Is Denver famous for anything?

Denver is famous for its award-winning breweries, a rare combination of city and nature, and many historical landmarks. There are many things to see and do in Denver, which is one of its most appealing attractions.

How can I spend 3 days in Denver?

There are many ways to spend 3 days in Denver, but we recommend taking time to appreciate nature, explore the city, and relax.

You can use this 3-day Denver itinerary to plan your trip:

• Day 1: Go sightseeing around the city (Cherry Creek North, Four Mile Historic Park, and Washington Park).
• Day 2: Explore nature on the Loveland Pass or at Red Rocks Park. Then, enjoy your evening in Larimer Square.
• Day 3: Hang out in downtown Denver, then relax at Oakwell Beer Spa.

What to do in Denver in 2 days?

If you only have 2 days in Denver, spend one day exploring the city and nature at various parks, and check out downtown Denver and Oakwell Beer Spa on your second day. This allows you to make the most of your time and appreciate the scenery, local culture, popular attractions, and hidden gems.

Rent a scooter or bike through rideshare services for a fun way to see Denver.

What to do if you have a day in Denver?

The best way to make the most of one day in Denver is by eating and hanging out at and near Union Station, then enjoying a rejuvenating spa day and local craft beer at Oakwell Beer Spa. If you have time in the evening, go to dinner in Uptown Denver.

Denver: What to Do (Conclusion)

We hope this article inspires you to explore the best Denver activities and events.

There are countless attractions you can’t find anywhere else, including Meow Wolf, Oakwell Beer Spa, and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.

If you’re ready to plan your next memorable experience in Denver, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa, where you can enjoy beer-inspired spa treatments.