New Year's Package is now available. Come and celebrate New Year's at Oakwell Beer Spa!
New Year's Package is now available. Come and celebrate New Year's at Oakwell Beer Spa!
New Year's Package is now available. Come and celebrate New Year's at Oakwell Beer Spa!
New Year's Package is now available. Come and celebrate New Year's at Oakwell Beer Spa!

Denver, Colorado Vacation: How to Have a Memorable Experience

Are you planning a Denver, Colorado vacation and hoping to have an unforgettable experience? If so, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’re going to share everything you need to know about taking an amazing trip to the Mile High City. We’ll go over the best places to stay, must-see and do activities, and answer a few common questions about visiting Denver. This beautiful city is home to some of the most breathtaking views, incredible weather, and exciting activities. Whether you love to be adventurous and explore the great outdoors, or you prefer to sit back, relax, and enjoy a cold drink – you can find it in this city that’s truly got it all. You might also be interested in reading: 3 Days in Denver: How to Spend a Weekend in Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado Vacation: Where to Stay

One of our favorite things about Denver is how many incredible places there are to stay. No matter your budget or travel style, there are endless hotels and vacation rental options. We especially recommend checking out The Crawford Hotel or the Halcyon Hotel.

The Crawford Hotel

Situated above the Denver Union Station, known to locals as Denver’s Living Room, The Crawford Hotel is an experience rather than a hotel. It showcases impressive historical details, and the rooms are elegant and cozy. Denver, Colorado vacation - Denver Union Station The Crawford Hotel is an excellent place for visitors who like to be close to the hustle. It’s conveniently surrounded by places to eat, shop, and hang out. The hotel also has a destination amenity package for guests to discover the best of Denver.

Thompson Hotel

The Thompson Hotel is perfect if you want a luxurious mixed with casual experience. This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Lower Downtown (LoDo), an easy walk to countless activities. Guests love the on-site restaurant and the opportunity for a free 15-massage at Oakwell Beer Spa (if you have an appointment booked).

Denver, Colorado Vacation: Things to Do

Denver offers some of the best things to see and do. It’s easy to stay busy from sunrise to sunset, and there’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. While there are countless activities, these are the ones we always recommend to visitors:
  • Check out the Denver Union Station.
  • Go brewery hopping.
  • Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa.
  • Visit Temper Chocolates.
  • Taste wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem.

Check Out the Denver Union Station

The Denver Union Station is a must-visit during your Denver, Colorado, vacation. It’s a historical landmark located in the heart of downtown Denver, providing exceptional food at world-renowned restaurants and charming boutique shopping. Whether you visit day or night, there’s so much to check out at the Denver Union Station.

Go Brewery Hopping

If you enjoy drinking beer, you’re in luck! Denver is known for its unmatched beer scene and is home to over 100 craft breweries, making it a hot spot for any beer lover to explore.  Even if you aren’t usually a beer drinker, Denver makes trying new things fun! You can either use this guide to give yourself a brewery tour or join a guided Denver beer tour.

Relax at the Oakwell Beer Spa

The best way to relax in Denver is at Oakwell Beer Spa. This unique day spa offers unforgettable spa treatments, including beer bath hydrotherapy, an infrared sauna, and a zero gravity massage. [caption id="attachment_4909" align="aligncenter" width="580"]Oakwell Beer Spa's Zero Gravity Massage Chair Oakwell Beer Spa's Zero Gravity Massage Chair[/caption] Oakwell Beer Spa also has a cozy craft beer taproom, where you can self-serve local craft beer or enjoy wine, cider, or kombucha.

Visit Temper Chocolates

When it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to visit Temper Chocolates, a delicious chocolate and confection shop that sells experiences. While you can make a quick stop at Temper Chocolates, it’s conveniently located in The Denver Central Market, where you can also find other vendors.

Taste Wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem

When hanging out in the bustling Larimer Square district, which we definitely recommend checking out, The Infinite Monkey Theorem is a must-visit. This industrial, chic winery and taproom is a fun spot to enjoy various local wines. You can also enjoy fun events at the winery, like comedy night and trivia. Other noteworthy things to do during Your Denver, Colorado vacation: Depending on how long you have in Denver, you may want to add a few more unforgettable experiences to your bucket list.
  • See a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater.
  • Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens.
  • Go shopping at 16th Street Mall.
  • Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Appreciate the arts at the Denver Art Museum.
  • Grab some dessert at the iconic Little Man Ice Cream.
[caption id="attachment_4910" align="aligncenter" width="580"]Denver, Colorado vacation - Rocky Mountain National Park Rocky Mountain National Park[/caption] Related read: Top 10 Things to Do in Denver [The Ultimate Bucket List]

Denver, Colorado Vacation: How to Get Around

One of the perks of choosing Denver as your vacation spot is that it’s easy to get around. After all, it’s a bustling city with plenty of transportation options. Whether you drive to Denver or come in through the Denver International Airport, there are plenty of convenient ways to get around, including driving, walking, public transportation, or biking.

Driving

The simplest way to get around Denver, Colorado, is by car (your own car, a rented car, or a rideshare car from Uber, Lyft, etc.). However, keep in mind that some areas are better enjoyed on foot. For instance, it’s best to walk around downtown Denver to explore.

Walking

Speaking of walking, many areas in Denver are pedestrian-friendly. In fact, some neighborhoods, including downtown, Cherry Creek, and Larimer Square, are very walkable. Parking nearby and then walking around to explore allows you to fully appreciate these locations.

Public Transportation

If you’re looking for an authentic city-life experience, you might want to use Denver’s extensive public transportation system, whether the light rail or the bus.

Bicycling or Scootering

Denver offers bike and scooter rentals if you’re looking for an exciting adventure through the city. It’s fun to bike or scoot around to hang out in the city and in nature at parks like Washington and Confluence Park.

Denver, Colorado Vacation FAQ

Have a few more questions about your Denver vacation? We have the answers!

What is there to do in Denver? 

There’s so much to do in Denver, from spending time in nature and eating delicious food to enjoying the craft beer scene and relaxing at a beer spa. One of the reasons we love Denver so much is that there are countless things to do. You could visit many times or live here for years and probably never get bored! [caption id="attachment_4911" align="aligncenter" width="580"]Oakwell Beer Spa - beer bath hydrotherapy Oakwell Beer Spa's Beer Bath Hydrotherapy[/caption]

How many days do you need to visit Denver?

Honestly, Denver is great for a day or a week. While there’s enough to do for an entire week or two, you can also have an amazing Denver day trip.

What is the best month to visit Denver?

While spring and fall tend to be the best times for a Denver, Colorado vacation, it’s an incredible place any time of year. You can enjoy pleasant temperatures and gorgeous scenery during April, May, September, and October. Denver also has fun local events during spring and fall. Winter is another great time to visit if you enjoy cold weather and snow activities. Denver’s gorgeous during winter! Summer months in Denver are the busiest, and while you’ll be met with warm temperatures and fun things to do, you’ll also see more extensive crowds and higher prices. It’s well worth it, though! To learn more, check out these seasonal Denver guides:

Where should I stay in Denver?

The Crawford Hotel and the Thompson Hotel are always our go-to choices. With that said, there are so many options. You can also consider what area you prefer to stay in.
  • Cherry Creek: a high-end area with many dining and shopping opportunities
  • Five Points/River North (RiNo): a bustling area, known for its fun nightlife scene
  • Union Station/Lower Downtown (LoDo): a lively area bursting with shops, restaurants, and bars; where The Crawford Hotel and Thompson Hotel are located
  • Capitol Hill: a quieter residential area, conveniently located near downtown Denver & other popular attractions

Enjoy Your Denver, Colorado Vacation!

There you have it – how you can enjoy an amazing vacation in Denver! Whether you’re exploring the famous Union Station or relaxing at Oakwell Beer Spa, you’re sure to enjoy all that Denver has to offer. You might also be interested in reading: 10 Fun & Unique Things to Do in Denver, Colorado