Denver is the capital and most populous city in the USA. It is a place where city life meets the beauty of the great outdoors. This city is known as the “Mile High City” because it sits exactly one mile above sea level. Denver is full of energy, color, and natural charm. It is a city famous for many things, like the weather, food, history, mountain views, live music, and art. As a quote by former Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, “Denver is a city whose future will be far more defined than its past.” Denver is emerging as a major city.
Denver is on the banks of the South Platte River, in the proximity of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The significance of the town is that it is a supply hub for new mines in the mountains. Denver offers fun for all kinds of travelers, from its historic streets and trendy neighborhoods to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, all are just a short drive away. You can spend your mornings exploring museums, enjoy delicious food in the afternoon, and take in mountain sunsets in the evening. It’s the kind of city that feels both relaxing and exciting at the same time.
If you’re planning a trip to the United States or exploring new cities across the country, don’t miss out on Denver. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the coolest and most unforgettable things to do in this beautiful Colorado city. You can enjoy many activities here. Here are best and coolest things to do in Denver, Colorado.
Things to do in Denver
This is the list of things to do in Denver during your visit. The city has many amazing and fun activities to do.
1. Expose yourself to the Rockies Air and Space Museum
This museum is for all the aircraft fans out there. This museum is situated in a former Air Force hangar and accommodates around 50 aircraft and space vehicles. It also includes such rarities as the B-18A Bolo, an RF-84K Thunderflash Parasite, a Star Wars X-Wing Fighter, and many more. You are also permitted to try some of their apparatus. Visiting here is undoubtedly a must-do thing if you are exploring Denver with your kids.
2. Learning to climb at the Denver Climbing Company
Learning new things is always fun. Climbing is a skill that you can not learn everywhere. It requires a proper place and guidance. At Denver Climbing Company, you get to learn to climb under the guidance of very professional guides. It does not matter if you are a beginner or a veteran. Kids can also participate. Thus, it is yet another place to visit in Denver with kids. It is also one of the coolest things that you can do in Denver, Colorado.
3. Mount Evans
Tired of bustling in the city? Need peace and calm? Welcome to Mount Evans. Mount Evans is Colorado’s 12th-highest peak. The fantastic views and picturesque landscape will make you fall in love with the place immediately. Apart from the mountains, you can also get to see mountain goats and a fantastic variety of flowers. The area is comparatively less crowded. It is a perfect place for families and couples.
4. Have fun at Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
In Downtown Denver, there is a theme park by the name of Elitch Gardens. It also has water slides to enhance your experience. What’s unique is that Downtown Denver is the only downtown in any US city to have a theme park. The park has many unique rides such as Mind Eraser, Slingshot, and Cannonball Falls.
The place is perfect if you are traveling with kids. They have special arrangements during Halloween, so make sure you visit the park if you are visiting Denver for Halloween.
5. See Denver by Pedicab
This is one of the coolest things to do in Denver. It’s the most unusual way to see the city. A pedicab is an electric tricycle. Very trained guides drive them. You need to sit and enjoy learning about the city.
6. Enjoy delicacies at Larimer Square
This is among some things to do in downtown. Larimer Square is the spot that is associated with the inception of Denver city. Larimer Square is one of the busiest places in Denver. This square is a long street lined with restaurants, boutiques, clubs, bars, and comedy clubs. Every type of food is available from French to Italian. It makes up for a perfect hangout spot with friends and family.
7. Adams Mystery Playhouse
Visit Colorado’s first and only mystery dinner theatre. It’s an interactive and entertaining way to have dinner. During the dinner, you will enjoy comedy sessions by the actors. After you have finished your dinner, a live play of murder happens in which you are the participants. You also receive special prizes for solving the crime.
8. Hike a 14er
Denver is blessed to have 58 mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet. They are known as “Fourteeners” or “14ers”; these peaks can range from easy to severe. They are associated with excellent scenery, wildlife, and ruggedness. The famous Pikes Peak, which inspired the poem “America the Beautiful,” is a 14er. So if you are adventurous enough and dare to climb a 14er, go ahead—a free yet daring activity.
9. Learning about currency minting at Denver Mints
Denver Mint is one of the four places in the USA where the currency is minted. What’s even better is the fact that you get a free of cost 45 minutes tour of the Mint. You will get to learn about the ways currency is printed or minted. The tour is free, but make sure that you register for the trip in advance. One more prerequisite is that children below the age of seven are not allowed in the Mint.
10. Hammond’s candy factory tour
Everyone loves candy, especially children. Another sweet thing is that they also offer a 30-minute free of cost tour. You can come here with your friends or family. Ideal place for bringing kids. Reservations are to be made beforehand. You will get to experience an intimate look into candy preparation. Not only is this a refreshing experience, but also very educational. Plus, you also get to take some candies home.
11. Dikeou Collection
It is one of the most unusual art galleries you would have ever seen. It is located at 16th and California streets in downtown Denver. The gallery stores the works of some of the finest artists on the planet. It is a private collection consisting of photographs, drawings, sculptures, and contemporary art. It is free to the public, making it another good reason to visit.
12. Get inside the Colorado State Capitol
Colorado State Capitol offers a free tour inside the legislative building of Colorado. It is visited by about 300000 visitors annually. This tour is quite popular. Reservations have to be made a calendar year before. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. The building is a must-watch. It is made of red onyx, a rare red marble. The dome is made of gold. Another fantastic feature is that the Capitol Building is located one mile above sea level.
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Denver is a beautiful place to visit. With so much to explore, it is one of the most beautifully situated cities. The best time to visit Denver is from April through May and from September to October.
You can plan to visit Denver for a weekend or plan a longer stay. This vibrant city has plenty to keep you excited and entertained. Denver offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and fun, from outdoor adventures in the Rocky Mountains to relaxing strolls through art districts and gardens. It is a great destination for solo travelers, couples, families, or friends looking for something different.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the coolest things Denver has to offer. You are sure to leave with amazing memories and a strong desire to come back again!
