Best Things to Do in Denver: Top 10 Bucket List Experiences

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Denver, you’re in for a treat. The Mile High City is the perfect mix of natural beauty, unique activities, and laid-back local charm.

Denver offers everything from mountain views and live music to relaxing wellness experiences and delicious craft beer. With so many options, there’s something fun for everyone.

This guide highlights 10 Denver bucket list experiences — from must-see attractions to one-of-a-kind adventures. Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation, these are the top Denver must-do activities.

Denver Union Station

Denver Union Station is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see stop for snapping pictures or hanging out. This renovated historic train station features shops, award-winning restaurants, and bars in the heart of downtown. Cozy seating areas create a relaxed, living room feel — perfect for hanging out or people-watching.

Start your day here with a delicious brunch at Snooze, then explore the surrounding LoDo neighborhood. If you visit in summer or during the holidays, you’ll likely find a market, live music, or another local event in the plaza. 

A Live Sports Game

Attending a game is one of the most unique things to do in Denver for sports lovers. It’s also one of the best ways to experience the city’s fun energy.

Here’s a quick guide to local teams and where they play:

Oakwell Beer Spa

If you’re looking for a cool and relaxing experience you can’t find anywhere else, Oakwell Beer Spa is a must-visit. This award-winning day spa offers an incredibly unique blend of wellness and craft beer.

At Oakwell Beer Spa, you can enjoy local brews, cider, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks in a cozy taproom before unwinding in a private spa suite. Each room is created for up to two people to enjoy a bubbly beer bath, infrared sauna, and rain shower for the ultimate self-care session — or you can book and join multiple rooms for larger groups. You can also add a Zero Gravity Massage to your spa day for extra rejuvenation.

Oakwell Beer Spa has two convenient locations in Five Points and Highlands Ranch, making it easy to fit into your itinerary. Whether you’re planning a date night, a spa day with friends, or a solo activity, Oakwell Beer Spa is the place to go.

Denver Beer Trail

The Denver Beer Trail is one of the best ways to experience the city’s iconic beer scene. This self-guided tour takes you through some of the city’s top breweries, brewpubs, and taprooms — from long-time favorites to new up-and-coming spots.

Popular areas to explore include RiNo, LoDo, and Highlands, where you can find countless local breweries with delicious beer and a fun atmosphere.

End your adventure at Oakwell Beer Spa to relax after a day of tasting with a beer bath and a local brew in hand. It’s the perfect way to combine two of the best experiences in Denver — beer and relaxation.

Local Art Galleries

Denver’s art scene is one of the best in Colorado, with countless art galleries to visit and creative pieces to check out. 

There are several distinct areas in Denver where you can explore local galleries, including:

• RiNo Art District - A vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, murals, and street art
• Art District on Santa Fe - A stretch of dozens of galleries and studios showcasing local and international artists
• Golden Triangle Creative District - Close to the Denver Art Museum, featuring diverse art spaces and design studios

Michelin Star Restaurants 

Foodies love exploring Denver’s award-winning culinary scene. The city’s Michelin Star restaurants have everything from inventive tasting menus to refined takes on global cuisine.

Here are a few Michelin Star spots to add to your Denver bucket list experiences:

• The Wolf’s Tailor - Creative tasting menus inspired by global influences with a focus on sustainability
• Alma Fonda Fina - Upscale Mexican cuisine made with local ingredients and bold flavors
• Beckon - An intimate, multi-course dining experience with unique options for each season
• Bruto - A wood-fired, chef’s counter restaurant focusing on local and regional ingredients
• Kizaki - Upscale sushi and Japanese cuisine known for precision and freshness
• Margot - A chic yet casual dining experience with a delicious European flair
• Mezcaleria Alma - A fun, lively spot specializing in modern Mexican dishes and mezcal cocktails

Red Rocks Amphitheatre & Park

One of the best things to do in Denver for music lovers is to catch a live show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This iconic venue is surrounded by towering red rock formations and hosts some of the world’s best musicians and comedians. You can also check out other events like Yoga on the Rocks and Film on the Rocks.

While most shows take place from spring through fall, you can also visit in the off-season to explore the park, hiking trails, and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. 

Colorado Symphony 

For a sophisticated night out in Denver, check out the Colorado Symphony. This is one of the top orchestras in the country, made up of 80 talented musicians performing more than 150 concerts each year.

Performances are held at Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex (DPAC) — one of the largest performing arts centers in the U.S. Concerts usually last about two hours with a short intermission. There are also shorter family-friendly performances that are perfect for kids, too.

DPAC’s central location also makes it easy to grab dinner or go shopping nearby before or after the show. 

Great American Beer Festival

The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) is one of the largest indoor beer festivals in the world and takes place each fall in Denver. Hundreds of breweries come together to pour thousands of craft beers — a true bucket list event for beer lovers.

Along with endless tastings, you can enjoy food pairings, live music, games, and fun events all weekend long.

A Day Trip Adventure

When you’re ready to change up the pace from the city, take advantage of how close Denver is to incredible outdoor destinations. Whether you’re looking for mountain scenery, hiking trails, or small-town charm, these day trips are all within easy driving distance:

• Rocky Mountain National Park - A must-see for wildlife, alpine lakes, and stunning hikes
• Roxborough State Park - Known for dramatic red rock formations and peaceful trails.
• Colorado Springs - Home to the iconic Garden of the Gods and a charming downtown area
• Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway - A breathtaking drive with panoramic views and wildlife
• Breckenridge - Famous for skiing, snowboarding, and the quirky Breckenridge Troll sculpture

Best Things to Do in Denver: Conclusion

From live music and art to local beer and mountain views, Denver has no shortage of unforgettable experiences. 

If you only have time for one truly unique activity, Oakwell Beer Spa is a must-visit. It captures the best of Denver — relaxation, craft beer culture, and the charm of a locally owned small business.

Book a spa day for the ultimate relaxation or stop by for a beer and massage.