Denver, capital of Colorado , home to Coors and the Denver Broncos, located at the doorstep of the majestic Rocky Mountain and at the western edge of the vast Great Plains.
I just pretty much made it obvious that you can expect lots of activities in and around Denver . Let’s take a more detailed look, shall we?
Best Things to Do in Denver
Colorado State Capitol
The Colorado State Capitol with its golden dome, located at precisely one mile above sea level, can be visited on free self-guided and guided tours. From the dome it is possible to see 200 named Rocky Mountain peaks.
Coors Field and Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Denver is a sports-mad city and catching a game is an essential part of any visit to the city. Coors Fields is the home base of the Colorado Rockies baseball team, while Sports Authority Field at Mile High is where the Denver Broncos football team plays its home games. Tours of both stadiums are available, too.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Although not as big as other natural history museums in the U.S., the Denver Museum of Nature and Science does deserve your time. It covers various scientific areas, such as zoology, anthropology, paleontology and space exploration. Highlights range from dinosaur skeletons to Egyptian mummies.
16th Street Mall
This is a mile-long pedestrian boulevard that’s lined with stores, entertainment venues and restaurants. This is arguably the best place to people-watch in Denver. If you don’t feel like walking, you can hop on the free shuttle bus that travels from end to end.
Coors Brewery
Probably the most famous of all American beers – that doesn’t mean it’s the best though! – Coors is brewed with water that comes straight from the Rocky Mountains. Tours show visitors how the beer is brewed, bottled and packed. As is the case on most brewery tours, a couple of samples wait at the end.
Larimer Square
Historic Larimer Square is the location of an original pioneer and gold rush camp. This peaceful and vibrant neighborhood is the heart and soul of Denver and is home to numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
Denver Art Museum
Housing one of the most impressive art collections in the western United States, the Denver Art Museum is absolutely worth a visit. Highlights include works by Dali, O’Keeffe and Van Gogh, and an extensive collection of western American art.
Washington Park
Enormous Washington Park is situated south of central Denver and consists of beautiful gardens, two huge lakes, jogging tracks, ten tennis courts and plenty of other facilities. Locals compare it to Central Park or the Boston Common.
Denver Zoo
Located in City Park, Denver Zoo is home to no less than 4,000 animals , including kangaroos, tigers, rhinos and orangutans. It’s a truly massive zoo, so be sure to allow enough time – a day or so – to see everything.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
Of all the best things to do in Denver and surroundings, this is arguably the greatest one. Made up of red sandstone pillars and cliffs and home to many miles of hiking trails, this large area is excellent for outdoor activities. The main highlight, however, is the magnificent natural amphitheater that is used for outdoor concerts. Artists that have played there include Bruce Springsteen, the Beatles and John Denver. It’s a fantastic spot!
