One Day in Denver: A Complete Itinerary for a Perfect Day

If you only have one day in Denver, this itinerary will help you enjoy the best of the city with insider tips from locals. From delicious food and a vibrant beer scene to picturesque scenery and relaxing experiences, you’ll discover how to spend 24 hours in Denver the right way.

We’ll also share practical tips on how to get around and where to stay so you can make the most of your Mile High City adventure.

One Day in Denver: A Quick Overview

Morning: Brunch & Explore LoDo

1–2 hours

Start your day in Lower Downtown (LoDo), Denver’s oldest and liveliest neighborhood. Known for its Victorian architecture, trendy shops, and buzzing streets, LoDo is perfect for a morning stroll and photos.

While here, make brunch your first stop. There are so many great brunch places in Denver, with Snooze and Onefold being some of our favorites in LoDo.

Late Morning: Explore Downtown Denver

1-2 hours

Downtown Denver is full of energy, with plenty of attractions within walking distance. Just north is RiNo (River North Arts District), one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, famous for street art, breweries, and creative vibes.

Some of the best places to explore in this area include:

• Union Station – A historic train station with restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes (also great for brunch)
• Denver Botanic Gardens – One of our favorite outdoor activities in Denver for spending time outdoors around beautiful landscapes and seasonal blooms
• Denver Art Museum – One of the largest museums with more than 70,000 diverse works from across the centuries and world
• Dairy Block – A micro-district filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and lively events
• Breweries – Various breweries around downtown to enjoy Denver’s famous craft beer scene

Afternoon: Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

2+ hours

After sightseeing, take time to slow down and recharge at Oakwell Beer Spa. This award-winning spa is located in Five Points, just a few minutes from downtown and RiNo. 

At Oakwell Beer Spa, you can:

• Sip locally brewed craft beer, wine, cider, or tea in the cozy taproom
• Enjoy signature spa treatments like Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, an Infrared Sauna, and a Zero Gravity Massage
• Freshen up in the vanity room before heading out for the night

Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun activity with friends, or some solo self-care, Oakwell Beer Spa has various spa packages for the perfect experience.

Evening: Dinner & Night Out in Uptown

2+ hours

End your day in Uptown (North Capitol Hill), about 1.5 miles from Oakwell Beer Spa. Uptown is known for Restaurant Row along 17th Avenue, where you’ll find a mix of trendy restaurants, cocktail lounges, dive bars, and performing arts centers.

Some of the best spots in Uptown include Wildflower for an upscale dinner, Curious Theatre Company for a show, and Retrograde for craft cocktails.

How to Get Around Denver

It’s easy to get around during your day in Denver, with plenty of transportation options:

• Walking – Many neighborhoods like LoDo, RiNo, and Uptown are pedestrian-friendly
• Biking or scooters – Rent an e-bike or scooter for quick trips around the city
• Public transportation – The RTD light rail and buses are affordable ways to travel between neighborhoods and to/from the airport.
• Driving or rideshare – Uber, Lyft, or a rental car make exploring beyond downtown easy

Where to Stay in Denver

If you’re planning to spend the night in Denver, there are plenty of accommodations for every style and budget.

Our top picks include The Crawford Hotel and Halcyon. The Crawford Hotel is inside Union Station, close to downtown restaurants, shops, and attractions. Halcyon is in Cherry Creek’s upscale shopping district and features a rooftop pool and cozy, home-like vibe.

Enjoy Your Perfect Day in Denver

Denver is one of the best cities for both fun and relaxation. From delicious food and a lively beer scene to unique shops and beautiful outdoor spaces, there’s something for everyone.

We hope this itinerary inspires your next trip or even a Denver staycation! When you’re ready to plan your day, don’t forget to book your Oakwell Beer Spa experience for the perfect blend of self-care and adventure.