Is Denver worth visiting in October?

Yes. October brings mild days, crisp nights, and vibrant foliage in the city and nearby foothills. It’s shoulder season, so crowds and hotel rates are lower than summer and ski season. Conditions are great for hiking, patio dining, festivals, and day trips; pack layers for variable weather.

What to do for 3 days in Denver?

Day 1: Explore the RiNo Art District’s murals and breweries, browse Tattered Cover, and unwind in City Park or at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Day 2: Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park for wildlife and fall colors, or spend the day in Boulder’s Pearl Street and nearby trails. Day 3: Antique shop along South Broadway, try Denver Biscuit Co, and add Union Station, a museum, or a local food hall.

How warm is Denver in October?

Average highs reach the mid-60s°F (about 19°C) and lows dip to the upper-30s°F (around 3°C). Expect plenty of sun, large day‑night temperature swings, and the occasional early snowfall.

Where is Oktoberfest in Denver?

The Denver Oktoberfest is usually held on Larimer Street in the Ballpark neighborhood, centered around the 2000–2100 blocks near 21st and Larimer (around 2100 Larimer St). Confirm the exact location and details on the event’s site.

When do fall colors peak near Denver?

Peak color varies by elevation. Above 8,000 feet (areas like Rocky Mountain National Park, Guanella Pass, and Kenosha Pass), the best viewing is typically mid-September to early October. In the foothills and the city, colors often peak late September through mid-October. Go early and on weekdays to avoid traffic.

What should I pack for visiting Denver in the fall?

Dress in layers: breathable base layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a light insulated or rain jacket. Bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), a refillable water bottle, and lip balm. Evenings can be chilly, so consider gloves and a beanie, especially if you’ll visit higher elevations.

Denver Fall Activities & Events: A 2025 Guide

Fall in Denver is one of the best times to experience the Mile High City. From local events to picture-perfect fall foliage, there's something for everyone. Below, Fall in Denver is one of the best times of year. Warm days, cool evenings, and colorful foliage set the stage for the best Denver fall activities — from local festivals and scenic hikes to a relaxing visit to Oakwell Beer Spa.

Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation, this guide makes it easy to enjoy the season. We’ve gathered the top things to do, from markets and concerts to pumpkin patches and seasonal fun, so that you can make the most of Denver in fall.

Highland Farmers Market

When: 9 AM to 1 PM, Sundays through October 12
Where: W 32nd Ave & Lowell Blvd

Fall weekends are perfect for strolling the Highland Farmers Market. Shop local produce, ready-made food, and handmade crafts while enjoying live music. And don’t miss the market bar for a creative seasonal drink.

The tree-lined streets offer a relaxing atmosphere, whether you’re picking up fresh vegetables or browsing the flower stands. Families, couples, and friends can all enjoy this neighborhood favorite.

Sloan’s Lake Fall BAZAAR

When: September 13, 2025
Where: Sloan’s Lake, 1700 Sheridan Blvd, Denver

Sloan’s Lake is one of our favorite parks in Denver because of its large space with beautiful mountain and lake scenery.

During the Fall BAZAAR, the park transforms into a lively marketplace with over 80 craft vendors, food trucks, and live music. You can also enjoy outdoor yoga and bottomless mimosas. The event is free to enter and family- and dog-friendly.

Denver Jazz Festival

When: September 12–14, 2025
Where: Studio Loft at Ellie Caulkins Opera House

Enjoy an intimate weekend of live music at the Denver Jazz Festival. National and local artists perform everything from smooth classics to energetic sets.

The festival is a must for jazz lovers or anyone looking for a memorable evening out. The setting is small, so every performance feels personal and unique.

Sunnyside Music Festival

When: September 13, 2025
Where: Chaffee Park, 43rd & Shoshone

One of the best events for music lovers to do in Denver in September is the Sunnyside Music Festival. Enjoy a day of local bands, food vendors, and craft makers.

This laid-back festival is family-friendly and a great way to connect with Denver’s community vibe. Bring a blanket, grab a snack, and enjoy live music.

High Plains Comedy Festival

When: September 18–20, 2025
Where: Various venues, Baker neighborhood

Laugh your way through fall at the High Plains Comedy Festival. The event brings dozens of comedians to Denver, with shows in bars, theaters, and clubs.

Expect a mix of stand-up, improv, and storytelling. This is the perfect way to enjoy a weekend out with friends.

Chatfield Farms Pumpkin Patch

When: October 10–12, 2025, 9 AM to 4 PM
Where: Chatfield Farms, 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Rd, Littleton

Littleton, just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, hosts one of the most popular fall festivals. The Chatfield Farms Pumpkin Patch offers hayrides, a corn maze, and plenty of kid-friendly fun.

Wander the 10-acre pumpkin patch to find the perfect one for carving. Whether it’s a family outing, a fall date, or a day with friends, this event is a local favorite.

Pumpkin Harvest Festival

When: October 18–19, 2025
Where: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S Forest St, Denver

The Pumpkin Harvest Festival is one of the most popular family-friendly Denver fall events. It’s an award-winning festival featuring blacksmith demos, prairie games, tractor rides, and scarecrow building. Shop local vendors, enjoy live music, and sip seasonal drinks along the festival trail.

Hiking Trails

Fall is the perfect season to hike in Denver with cooler temps, colorful scenery, and fewer crowds on the trails.

Some of the best hikes in Denver include:

Greenway Trail – This 15-mile out-and-back route along the Platte River offers wide paved paths and picnic spots, ideal for walkers, cyclists, and families.
Washington Park Loop – Take a shorter, peaceful walk around this 2.3-mile loop around a scenic lake in central Denver
Bear Creek Trail – Enjoy beautiful mountain and skyline scenery along nine miles of creekside paths in Bear Creek Lake Park
William Frederick Hayden Park – Just 20 minutes from Denver, this park offers 2,400 acres of trails ranging from easy to challenging

Westy Half & 5K

When: October 12, 2025
Where: 10600 Westminster Blvd, Westminster

The Westy Half & 5K is a great event if you’re looking for active Denver fall activities. October’s cool weather makes it perfect for a race, whether you choose the half-marathon or 5K.

All participants receive a race t-shirt, and finishers earn a medal. Post-race festivities add to the fun. Leashed pets are also welcome to join.

Oakwell Beer Spa

When: Daily, 8 AM to 10:30 PM
Where: 3004 N Downing St (Five Points) & 6660 Timberline Rd #100 (Highlands Ranch)

If you’re looking to relax between your fall festivities, unwind at Oakwell Beer Spa. This award-winning spa offers various packages, whether you want a solo spa day, a unique date, or a fun experience with friends.

Enjoy a beer bath, infrared sauna, and zero-gravity massage — all paired with delicious craft beverages. The cozy taproom also serves local beer, cider, tea, and kombucha. You can book spa services online or stop in for a drink.

Couple taking a beer bath at Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver — *Beer Bath Hydrotherapy at Oakwell Beer Spa*

Great American Beer Festival

When: October 9–11, 2025
Where: Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St, Denver

One of the best things to do in Denver in October is attend the Great American Beer Festival. It’s the largest beer event in the U.S., with hundreds of breweries and thousands of tastings. The event also features beer competitions, karaoke, and a silent disco for a weekend full of fun.

Single and multi-day tickets are available. You can also get a designated driver ticket at a lower cost if you aren’t drinking alcohol.

Autumn Art Fest

When: November 8, 2025
Where: Globeville Riverfront Art Center, 888 E 50th Ave, Denver

Celebrate Denver Arts Week at the Autumn Art Fest. Over 75 artists open their studios for demos, shopping, and gallery shows. It’s a free event and a great way to support local creators and do some early holiday shopping.

The Denver Zoo

When: Dates vary by event
Where: 2300 Steele St, Denver

The Denver Zoo is one of the city’s most popular attractions, with over 3,000 animals across 84 acres. Fall events make it even better:

Fall at DZCA (9/26–10/31) - Seasonal fun with animal encounters, pumpkin carving, and costumed characters
Boo at the Zoo (10/3–10/26) - A family-friendly trick-or-treating event with candy stations and seasonal snacks
Monster Masquerade (10/30) - An adult night out with music, drinks, and costume contests
Boo at the Zoo Sensory Friendly (10/31) - Designed for guests with sensory sensitivities, with reduced crowds and quiet spaces

Red Rocks Amphitheater & Park

When: Park open daily, sunrise to sunset; concert dates vary
Where: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison (30 minutes from Denver)

Red Roc k s is a must-see in the fall. Just a short drive from Denver, the park offers stunning hiking trails surrounded by colorful foliage and magical red rock formations.

The amphitheater is also one of the best places to see live music in Denver. The open-air theater offers incredible scenery and hosts concerts through October and into November.

Denver Fall Weather

Denver’s fall weather varies by month, from warm September days to chilly temperatures in November.

Month	Average high	Average low	Average rain	Average snow
September	83°F	50°F	1.1 in	0 in
October	68°F	37°F	1 in	2.3 in
November	57°F	27°F	0.5 in	3.8 in

Source: NOAA

Denver Fall Activities: FAQs

Make the most of your time in Denver this fall with answers to common questions below.

What is Denver like in the fall?

Fall is one of the best times of year in Denver. Early fall brings mild weather and colorful foliage, while late fall can be chilly and even snowy. You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and plenty of Denver fall festivals.

Is Denver fun in October?

October is one of Denver’s most fun months. There are many events with something for everyone, including the Great American Beer Festival, Chatfield Farms Pumpkin Patch, and Boo at the Zoo.

When to see fall colors in Denver, Colorado?

Mid to late September is the best time to see fall colors in Denver. Sometimes, fall foliage lasts into early October.

Some of the best places to enjoy fall colors in Denver are local parks, including Wash and City Park. We also love taking a short drive to Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Springs for beautiful fall foliage.

Denver Fall Activities: Conclusion

Denver in fall is full of outdoor fun, seasonal festivals, and cozy activities. From pumpkin patches to concerts at Red Rocks, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking to treat yourself to relaxation this fall, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa.