Denver, the vibrant capital of Colorado, is a city that beautifully blends urban sophistication with natural beauty.
Known as the Mile High City due to its elevation of exactly one mile above sea level, Denver offers a wide array of attractions that cater to diverse interests.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore the nearby Rocky Mountains, a history buff interested in the city’s rich cultural heritage, or a foodie looking to indulge in the local culinary scene, there are plenty of places to visit in Denver that promise a memorable experience.
From world-class museums and beautiful gardens to exciting sports venues and awe-inspiring natural formations, Denver has something for everyone.
Best Places to Visit in Denver
This guide highlights some of the best places to visit in Denver, ensuring that your trip to this dynamic city is both enjoyable and enriching.
1. Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a serene oasis located in the heart of the city. Spanning 23 acres, the gardens showcase a stunning array of plants from around the world, beautifully arranged in various themed gardens.
Highlights include the Japanese Garden, the Tropical Conservatory, and the Rock Alpine Garden.
The gardens also host seasonal events, art exhibitions, and educational programs for all ages.
With its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, the Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the top places to visit in Denver for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, United States.
2. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a premier cultural institution renowned for its extensive and diverse art collections.
The museum’s striking architecture, including the Frederic C. Hamilton Building designed by Daniel Libeskind, is a work of art in itself.
The museum houses over 70,000 works of art, spanning various periods and cultures.
Highlights include the American Indian Art collection, contemporary art, and impressive exhibitions of Western American art.
The Denver Art Museum also offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, making it one of the best places to visit in Denver for art enthusiasts and families alike.
Location: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204, United States.
3. Garden of the Gods
While not located directly in Denver, the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is a must-visit destination easily accessible from the city.
This stunning public park is known for its dramatic red rock formations, which provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.
The park features numerous trails that cater to all fitness levels, offering spectacular views of the unique geological formations and the surrounding landscape.
The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center provides educational exhibits and guided tours, enhancing the experience.
As one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit near Denver, the Garden of the Gods is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Location: Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States.
4. Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo, located in City Park, is one of the most popular family attractions in Denver.
Home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 450 species, the zoo offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Highlights include the Toyota Elephant Passage, Predator Ridge, and Tropical Discovery.
The zoo also features interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and educational programs that provide insights into wildlife conservation.
With its diverse animal collection and engaging activities, the Denver Zoo is one of the top places to visit in Denver for a day of family fun.
Location: 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205, United States.
5. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a fascinating destination that offers a wide range of exhibits on natural history, science, and technology.
Located in City Park, the museum features permanent exhibits on topics such as dinosaurs, space exploration, ancient cultures, and the human body.
Highlights include the Dinosaur Hall, the Space Odyssey exhibit, and the Egyptian Mummies exhibit.
The museum also houses an IMAX theater and a planetarium, providing immersive educational experiences.
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the best places to visit in Denver for curious minds and lifelong learners.
Location: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205, United States.
6. Coors Field
Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies, is a must-visit destination for baseball fans and sports enthusiasts.
Located in the Lower Downtown (LoDo) area, the stadium is known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and its lively game-day atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy a Rockies game, take a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, and explore the interactive exhibits at the on-site Colorado Rockies Hall of Fame.
With its exciting sports action and vibrant ambiance, Coors Field is one of the top places to visit in Denver for an unforgettable baseball experience.
Location: 2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205, Amerika Serikat.
7. Molly Brown House Museum
The Molly Brown House Museum, located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Margaret “Molly” Brown, a prominent socialite, philanthropist, and survivor of the Titanic disaster.
The beautifully restored Victorian home, built in the 1880s, showcases period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of Molly Brown’s extraordinary life and legacy.
Guided tours provide insights into her contributions to society, her involvement in the women’s suffrage movement, and her adventures.
The Molly Brown House Museum is one of the best places to visit in Denver for history enthusiasts and those interested in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: 1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203, United States.
8. Denver Immersive Art Museum
The Denver Immersive Art Museum, also known as Meow Wolf Denver: Convergence Station, is an innovative and interactive art experience that transports visitors into a fantastical world of creativity and imagination.
The museum features a series of interconnected rooms and exhibits designed by a collective of artists, blending elements of sculpture, painting, digital art, and performance.
Each room offers a unique, immersive experience that engages all the senses and encourages exploration and discovery.
The Denver Immersive Art Museum is one of the top places to visit in Denver for art lovers and those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.
Location: 3900 Elati St, Denver, CO 80216, United States.
9. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, located just west of Denver in Morrison, is a world-renowned natural amphitheater set among stunning red rock formations.
The venue is famous for its exceptional acoustics and breathtaking views, making it a premier destination for concerts and events.
In addition to its musical offerings, Red Rocks Park features hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
Visitors can explore the park’s geological wonders, take in a concert under the stars, or enjoy a workout on the amphitheater’s iconic steps.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is one of the must-visit places near Denver for outdoor enthusiasts and music lovers.
Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States.
10. Empower Field at Mile High
Empower Field at Mile High, home to the Denver Broncos, is a state-of-the-art stadium that offers an exciting experience for football fans and sports enthusiasts.
Located in the heart of Denver, the stadium features modern amenities, stunning views of the city skyline, and a vibrant game-day atmosphere.
Visitors can attend a Broncos game, take a guided tour of the stadium, and explore the Denver Broncos Hall of Fame, which showcases the team’s history and achievements.
Empower Field at Mile High is one of the top places to visit in Denver for an unforgettable sports experience.
Location: 1701 Bryant St, Denver, CO 80204, United States.
11. Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium, located in the Central Platte Valley, offers an immersive and educational journey through diverse aquatic ecosystems.
The aquarium features over a million gallons of exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish.
Highlights include the Under the Sea exhibit, the interactive Stingray Reef, and the Mystic Mermaids show.
The aquarium also houses a restaurant with floor-to-ceiling aquarium views, providing a unique dining experience.
The Downtown Aquarium is one of the best places to visit in Denver for families and marine life enthusiasts.
Location: 700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211, United States.
12. Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, located in the historic Lowry Air Force Base, is a fascinating destination for aviation and space enthusiasts.
The museum features an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and aviation artifacts, spanning from the early days of flight to modern space exploration.
Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame.
Highlights include the B-52 Stratofortress, the Star Wars X-Wing Starfighter, and the Apollo Command Module.
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is one of the top places to visit in Denver for an engaging and educational experience.
Location: 7711 E Academy Blvd, Denver, CO 80230, United States
13. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, located just an hour and a half drive from Denver, offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States.
The park encompasses over 415 square miles of majestic mountains, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the country, offers breathtaking views of the park’s peaks and valleys.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the must-visit places near Denver for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors.
Location: Colorado, United States.
14. Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens, located in downtown Denver, is a beloved amusement park that offers a wide variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
The park features thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and a water park with slides and wave pools.
In addition to the rides, Elitch Gardens hosts live shows, concerts, and special events throughout the year.
The park’s central location and diverse offerings make it one of the best places to visit in Denver for a fun-filled day of excitement and adventure.
Location: 2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204, Amerika Serikat.
15. Larimer Square
Larimer Square is Denver’s oldest and most historic block, located in the heart of downtown.
This charming area is known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, which house a vibrant mix of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Visitors can explore unique shops, dine at some of Denver’s best restaurants, and enjoy live music and nightlife.
Larimer Square is especially enchanting at night when the street is lit up with twinkling lights.
It is one of the top places to visit in Denver for a taste of the city’s historic charm and modern vibrancy.
Location: 1430 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States.
16. History Colorado Center
The History Colorado Center, located in Denver’s Golden Triangle Museum District, offers an interactive and engaging look at the history and culture of Colorado.
The museum features a variety of exhibits that explore the state’s past, from its indigenous peoples and early settlers to its role in the modern West.
Highlights include the Time Machine exhibit, which allows visitors to “travel” through different eras of Colorado’s history, and the Destination Colorado exhibit, which recreates a 1920s farming town.
The History Colorado Center is one of the best places to visit in Denver for history enthusiasts and families.
Location: 1200 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203, United States.
17. Lakeside Amusement Park
Lakeside Amusement Park, located in the northwest part of Denver, is a classic amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1908.
The park features a variety of rides and attractions, including historic wooden roller coasters, a scenic lakefront, and charming vintage rides.
The park’s nostalgic atmosphere, combined with its affordable pricing, makes it a favorite destination for families and those looking to enjoy a piece of Denver’s past.
Lakeside Amusement Park is one of the top places to visit in Denver for a fun and retro amusement park experience.
Location: 4601 Sheridan Boulevard, Lakeside, CO 80212, United States.
18. Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, known as “America’s Mountain,” is one of Colorado’s most famous and accessible peaks.
Located about an hour and a half drive from Denver, the mountain offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities.
Visitors can drive the Pikes Peak Highway, take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or hike the Barr Trail to reach the 14,115-foot summit.
The views from the top are truly spectacular, encompassing the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, and the city of Colorado Springs below.
Pikes Peak is one of the must-visit places near Denver for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: Colorado 80809, United States.
19. Confluence Park
Confluence Park, located at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, is an urban oasis in the heart of Denver.
The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking.
Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, enjoy a picnic, or explore the scenic trails that connect to the larger Denver trail system.
The park is also home to the REI flagship store, which offers outdoor gear and adventure classes.
Confluence Park is one of the best places to visit in Denver for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the city.
Location: 2250 15th St, Denver, CO 80202, United States.
20. Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park, located southeast of Denver, is a large natural area that offers a wide range of recreational activities.
The park features a 880-acre reservoir, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.
There are also miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as picnic areas and campgrounds.
Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and spotting local wildlife in the park’s diverse habitats.
Cherry Creek State Park is one of the top places to visit in Denver for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.
Location: 4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014, United States.
21. Georgetown Loop Railroad
The Georgetown Loop Railroad, located about an hour west of Denver, offers a scenic and historic train ride through the Rocky Mountains.
This narrow-gauge railroad, originally completed in 1884, takes passengers on a journey between the towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes and over impressive bridges.
The train ride includes guided tours of the Lebanon Silver Mine, providing insights into Colorado’s mining history.
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is one of the best places to visit near Denver for a memorable and educational adventure.
Location: 646 Loop Dr, Georgetown, CO 80444, United States.
22. The Wild Animal Sanctuary
The Wild Animal Sanctuary, located in Keenesburg, about an hour northeast of Denver, is a unique and expansive wildlife refuge that provides a home for rescued lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other exotic animals.
The sanctuary spans over 10,000 acres, making it the largest carnivore sanctuary in the world.
Visitors can walk along the elevated walkway, which provides a safe and unobtrusive way to observe the animals in their naturalistic habitats.
The sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals from abusive or illegal situations, and it offers educational programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the top places to visit near Denver for animal lovers and those interested in wildlife protection.
Location: 2999 Co Rd 53, Keenesburg, CO 80643, United States.
In conclusion, Denver offers a rich array of attractions that cater to diverse interests and ages.
From its beautiful gardens and world-class museums to its exciting sports venues and breathtaking natural landscapes, there are countless places to visit in Denver that promise a memorable and enriching experience.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s cultural heritage, enjoying its outdoor beauty, or delving into its scientific wonders, Denver provides a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural tranquility, making it a top destination for travelers.
