First Date Ideas in Denver for a Memorable Experience

Planning a first date should be fun, not stressful. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorite first date ideas in Denver.

Whether you're looking for romantic things to do, relaxed vibes, or something adventurous, Denver's got it all. We'll share the best first dates, including a unique spa experience and outdoor activities.

Go Indoor Rock Climbing

There are a couple of rock climbing gyms in Denver, which are perfect for getting active together and potentially trying something new. 

Two popular spots are Übergrippen Indoor Climbing Crag and The Spot Bouldering Gym, both of which have opportunities for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re new to climbing or a pro, this is a fun way to spend time together on a date.

Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens

One of the easiest ways to get to know each other is strolling around the Denver Botanic Gardens and chatting. This is on of the best low-pressure Denver first date ideas because you can explore and chat about the gardens while other conversation comes up naturally.

The gardens cover 32 acres and has various themed gardens, a sunken amphitheater, and a conservatory, so it’s easy to spend a few hours here. There are also regular events like yoga in the gardens and plant shows if you want to plan a special activity.

Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

If you’re looking for romantic first date ideas in Denver, where you can also enjoy the local beer scene, Oakwell Beer Spa is perfect.

Oakwell Beer Spa is a beer-inspired spa in an atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and get to know each other. It's also one of the most unique experiences and a sure way to impress your date.

When you book the couple's spa package, you get access to a private spa suite with a beer bath, infrared sauna, and rain shower. You can enjoy the experience in a swimsuit with drinks in hand. There's also a self-serve taproom, where you can sip on beer, wine, cider, tea, or kombucha before or after the spa experience.

Take a Cooking Class

One of the best ways to connect with someone is by cooking together. We love guided activities like this because they can take away from potentially awkward moments that can happen on first dates.

Denver Cooking Classes offers in-home cooking classes led by a professional chef. Or you can go to Stir Cooking School for guided cooking classes.

Hang Out at Lakeside Amusement Park

Having fun at an amusement Park is the classic date idea, and Lakeside Amusement Park is the perfect place for this in Denver. Enjoy games and food while you have a good time hanging out and getting to know each other.

Lakeside Amusement Park is generally open from early May through mid-August.

Go on a Coffee Date

Coffee dates are one of the easiest and best ways to spend time with someone new. Denver makes this easy with so many great coffee shops all over the city.

Some of our favorites are:

• Dandy Lion Coffee Co. - A trendy coffee shop with a plant shop in the Park Hill Neighborhood
• Steam Espresso Bar - A spacious cafe with indoor and outdoor seating in the Sunnyside Neighborhood
• Queens Eleven - A dark and moody cafe with coffee, cocktails, and speak-easy vibes in River North Art District (RiNo)

Watch Live Music Together

Live music is one of the most fun but easiest first date ideas in Denver. Whether you want to go to a concert at one of the many venues or keep it more casual at a bar or brewery, you can find live music most nights of the week. Some of our favorite spots are Ogden Theatre, Nocturne Jazz Club, Red Rock Amphitheatre, and Ratio Beerworks.

Go to Brunch

Who doesn’t love a good brunch? Change up the traditional dinner date and have a brunch first date instead. Denver has endless delicious brunch spots, including these incredible options:

• Bacon Social House - a popular spot with a bacon-inspired menu
• Snooze, an A.M. Eatery - Denver’s iconic brunch spot in a retro setting
• FIRE at the ART Hotel - A trendy restaurant for a fancier bunch date

Sip on Beers

With more than 150 breweries, having beer together is one of our favorite first date ideas in Denver. You can find a brewery in just about every part of the city, with several in RiNo and Downtown. You might even take a self-guided brewery tour together to check a few out.

Oakwell Beer Spa is also a fun spot to try locally-brewed craft beer, whether you check out the self-serve taproom or book a spa experience.

Explore Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe

Denver's Art District on Santa Fe is a hidden gem and one of the most unique first date ideas for art lovers.

This vibrant area has galleries, studies, and some of Denver’s best street art. It’s fun to walk around and explore the area while chatting and appreciating art together.

The Best First Date Ideas in Denver: Conclusion

We hope you’re excited to plan a memorable first date in Denver and found the perfect activity or two. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or a bit of both, there are many fun ways to spend time with someone new!

If you want to plan a unique, relaxing date, book a spa experience at Oakwell Beer Spa.