Winter in Denver, CO, offers so many fun things to do. Whether you're a local or planning a Denver vacation, there's something for everyone to enjoy this winter!

Below, we'll share the best outdoor adventures, holiday celebrations, relaxing experiences, and family-friendly activities.

Go Ice Skating at the Downtown Denver Rink

One of the most exciting things to do in Denver in winter for anyone is ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. The rink is in the large Civic Center Park and is only open during winter, from November 21st, 2024, through February 11th, 2025.

The rink is free, but you can rent skate gear and buy food and drinks.

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens for a Winter Event

While the Denver Botanic Gardens is beautiful and fun to visit all year, winter offers a unique experience at the gardens. 

Winter-themed events at the Denver Botanic Gardens include the following:

• Children and Family Make and Take: Harvest Wreaths - December 14th & 15th, 2024, at 10 AM and 1 PM
• Blossoms of Light - November 20th, 2024 – January 12th, from 4:30-9 PM (closed 11/28 & 12/25)
• Trail of Lights - November 29th – January 1st, various evenings, from 5-8:30 PM (closed 12/25)

Hang Out at The Infinite Monkey Theorem

The Infinite Monkey Theorem is a unique winery in a cool space. You can relax in their cozy space or join a tour or tasting. During winter, the winery also holds several special events, including comedy nights, trivia, and an ornament-making class.

Enjoy Winter on the Rocks at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

One of the best things to do in winter is visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Park just outside of Denver. Live shows pause for winter at Red Rocks, so you can enjoy a peaceful vibe and stunning views from the amphitheater and while exploring the park.

Get Warm and Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

If you’re looking for the perfect way to relax this winter in Denver, CO, look no further than Oakwell Beer Spa. This award-winning, unique day spa offers an incredible experience where you can unwind with beer-inspired treatments and enjoy local craft beer and other beverages. It's perfect for a date night or spending time with friends.

The signature spa treatment, Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, is the perfect way to warm up during winter. Other spa services include an Infrared Sauna and Zero Gravity Massage Experience.

Along with the standard spa day packages you can enjoy any day, Oakwell Beer Spa also has New Year’s and Valentine’s Day spa packages.

Enjoy Local Craft Beer on a Heated Patio

One of our favorite ways to get cozy and enjoy Denver's winter season is sipping local craft beer on a heated patio.

Denver’s thriving beer scene makes it easy to find a brewery. A few spots we enjoy with patio heaters are Great Divide Brewing Barrel Bar, Odell Brewing (in Five Points), and Wynkoop Brewing Company.

Attend the National Western Stock Show

The annual National Western Stock Show is one of Denver’s most unique winter events that takes place every January – this year from January 11th to 26th, 2025.

The National Western Stock Show's goal is to invest in future generations with livestock and equestrian education, innovations, entertainment, and competition. This event is great for youth and adults.

Watch the Parade of Lights

If you’re looking for free Denver winter activities, the Parade of Lights is one of the best! This family event will be in downtown Denver on December 7th, 2024, starting at 6 PM.

The parade will feature 40 floats, balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, and cultural displays. Santa and Major Waddles the Penguin will also make special guest appearances.

Explore Denver Union Station

The Denver Union Station, also known as “Denver’s Living Room,” is a historic landmark located in the vibrant lower downtown area. It’s the perfect place to get warm, dine, drink, and shop for the holidays.

Denver Union Station also hosts special winter events, including the Grand Illumination on November 29th, 2024, at 4 PM and Santa at the Station on December 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd, 2024, from 11 AM to 4 PM.

Experience Winter Wonderland at Cherry Creek North.

Winter Wonderland at Cherry Creek North takes place from November 14th to December 29th, 2024. Enjoy the ultimate holiday experience, with close to a million twinkling lights illuminating the entire neighborhood. There's also a collection of winter events, holiday shopping, and festive food.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Temper Chocolates and Confections

What’s a holiday season without delicious treats? Whether you want to satisfy a sweet tooth, need a last-minute gift, or want some desserts for a holiday party, Temper Chocolates and Confections is the place to go.

While you're there, explore the area known as River North Art District (RiNo) for dining, drinking, and shopping.

Take a Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, about an hour and a half from Denver, to enjoy a winter wonderland experience. During winter, the park is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, and wildlife in the snow. Best of all, there are fewer crowds at the park during this time of year, so you can enjoy a peaceful experience!

Watch a Live Sports Game

If you’re a sports fan, head to the Ball Arena in downtown Denver for a Denver Nuggets basketball game or a Colorado Avalanche hockey game.

The Denver Broncos also have home games at Empower Field at Mile High on November 17th and December 2nd and 15th, 2025.

Celebrate the New Year at a NYE Event

There are so many fun events in Denver for New Year's Eve! From a fireworks show and an annual bar crawl to a unique spa experience and an upscale cocktail party, there's something for everyone!

Winter in Denver, CO: FAQs

Enjoy the best things to do in Denver in winter with answers to common questions.

What is the winter season in Denver?

Denver’s winter season is typically from early November to late March. This is when you can experience winter activities, cold weather, and snow. However, the season could start sooner or last longer.

What is Denver’s snowiest month?

March is usually Denver's snowiest month, with an average of 11.5 inches of snow. It's been known to snow in Denver from October to April, so it's best to stay prepared. 

Is Denver worth visiting in the winter?

Denver is well worth visiting during winter if you enjoy cold weather and fun winter activities. The snow is beautiful, and there are many fun things to bundle up and do to enjoy the winter season. 

If you don’t prefer cold weather, we recommend visiting Denver during summer or fall.

Enjoy Winter in Denver, CO

We hope this article inspired you to experience the best things to do in Denver in winter!

Denver has some of the best winter experiences, with our favorites being relaxing at a cozy spa day, enjoying local craft beer, and going to holiday events.

Are you ready to start beating the winter blues and planning fun activities? Book a relaxing spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa, where you can treat yourself to the ultimate self-care while enjoying delicious craft beer or other beverages.