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

Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation, there are many fun things to do in Denver. This guide shares the best things to do in Denver, from iconic landmarks like Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Union Station to offbeat experiences like immersive art and an award-winning spa. You’ll also find day trip ideas for exploring nearby mountain scenery.

From family-friendly and romantic activities to things to do solo or with friends, there’s something fun for everyone in Denver. 

1. Stroll Around the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is known as the most beautiful gardens in Colorado and among 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 themed gardens and an amphitheater, where you can enjoy concerts during the summer. 

2. Shop and Eat at Denver Union Station

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

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 accommodations.

3. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

One of the most relaxing and fun things to do in Denver is a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa. This award-winning day spa combines craft beer with total relaxation. You can enjoy a cozy taproom and a private spa room, where you can soak in a warm, therapeutic bath and detox in an infrared sauna. You can also add a zero-gravity massage to your experience. 

There are various packages to choose from, making it easy to plan the perfect experience for self-care, a special date, or fun with friends. There’s also a self-serve taproom where you can enjoy local craft beer, wine, cider, tea, or kombucha before, during, or after your spa day.

4. Enjoy the Beer Scene

With over a hundred breweries and taprooms, Denver’s beer scene is one of the best in Colorado. You can take a guided brewery tour or explore on your own. 

Neighborhoods like the River North Art District (RiNo) are perfect for brewery hopping while enjoying street art, food halls, and boutiques. For the ultimate Denver beer experience, pair an afternoon of brewery tastings with a relaxing visit to Oakwell Beer Spa.

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 things to do in Denver with kids and as adults. 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 safe homes for animals. 

There are also daily demonstrations and talks to add to the experience. 

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 stunning rock structure, which is visible 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. Children over seven years old equally enjoy Archery Games Denver as much as adults do!

11. Drive Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

Drive the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (formerly Mount Evans Scenic Byway) for incredible alpine views. This 49-mile route is the highest paved road in North America, reaching over 14,000 feet above sea level. 

Typically open from late May to early October, this is an unforgettable way to experience Colorado’s natural beauty near 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 located in downtown Denver and features four galleries that showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents dating back to the 1800s. There are also regular events, classes, and activities.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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 for gourmet candy. Temper Chocolates is located in The Denver Central Market, a unique marketplace in the RiNo district.

16. 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!

17. Meow Wolf

One of the most fun activities in Denver is visiting Meow Wolf, a 4-story immersive walk-through art exhibition. 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 in advance. We recommend spending up to a few hours at Meow Wolf.

18. 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 Empower Field at Mile High.

19. 16th Street Mall

If you enjoy shopping and dining, the 16th Street Mall is worth checking out. It’s located in the heart of Denver's downtown area 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, which runs from one end to the other.

20. Coors Field Baseball 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 during the summer.

21. 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 the summer, you can also enjoy jazz concerts.

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

22. Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re looking to take a fun day trip, check out Rocky Mountain National Park. This massive 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, especially if you want to get outdoors and enjoy nature.

23. Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, or “America’s Mountain,” is another fun day trip from Denver. It’s just over an hour away 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 reservations are required for summer visits. There are also shuttles available in June and July for easy exploration.

Fun Things to Do In Denver: Conclusion

From iconic music venues and historic landmarks to unique spas, museums, and nearby mountains, Denver offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a long stay, you’ll find countless ways to enjoy the Mile High City. For a memorable experience, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa.