Denver, USA-7-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Denver

Morning: Arrive at Denver International Airport (DIA)
10:00 AM: Pick up rental car or take public transportation (RTD) from the airport
11:00 AM: Check-in to hotel - consider staying in Downtown Denver for easy access to attractions
- Hotel Recommendation: The Oxford Hotel, a historic boutique hotel with modern amenities
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage, a trendy food hall with multiple restaurants and bars
2:00 PM: Visit the Denver Art Museum (DAM), one of the largest art museums in the West
5:00 PM: Explore the vibrant LoDo neighborhood, known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Acorn, a contemporary American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 2: Downtown Denver

9:00 AM: Start the day at Union Station, a historic landmark with upscale shops and restaurants
10:00 AM: Visit the History Colorado Center to learn about the state’s rich history
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant with creative dishes
1:30 PM: Explore the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian shopping street lined with restaurants and shops
3:30 PM: Visit the Colorado State Capitol building and take in the stunning views of the city
6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Beast + Bottle, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

8:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, a unique park featuring stunning red rock formations
10:00 AM: Take a hike at Chautauqua Trail, a moderate hike with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Snooze, an American breakfast chain with creative dishes
2:00 PM: Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city
5:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Populist, a modern American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 4: Breweries and Live Music

10:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to Great Divide Brewing Company, one of Denver’s most iconic breweries
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Source, a food hall featuring multiple restaurants and bars
2:00 PM: Visit the Bluebird Theater, an intimate music venue hosting local and national acts
5:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Bistro Vendôme, a French bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 5: Museums and Galleries

9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, one of the largest museums in the West
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Buckhorn Exchange, a historic saloon serving American comfort food
2:00 PM: Visit the Clyfford Still Museum, dedicated to the life and work of renowned artist Clyfford Still
5:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Fruition Restaurant, a modern American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 6: Day Trip to Boulder

8:00 AM: Take a day trip to Boulder, located just 30 minutes west of Denver
10:00 AM: Visit the Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian shopping street lined with restaurants and shops
12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Med, a farm-to-table restaurant with creative dishes
2:00 PM: Take a hike at Chautauqua Trail, a moderate hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
5:00 PM: Return to Denver and enjoy dinner at Rioja, a modern American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Day 7: Last Day in Denver

9:00 AM: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a neighborhood you haven’t yet visited
12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage, a trendy food hall with multiple restaurants and bars
2:00 PM: Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city
5:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Lobby Lounge, located in the historic Oxford Hotel

Things to Know

Weather: Denver has a semi-arid climate with low humidity and moderate temperatures. Be sure to pack layers for variable weather.
Transportation: Public transportation (RTD) is convenient and affordable, but consider renting a car for easier access to attractions outside of downtown Denver.
Safety: Denver is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Book hotels and restaurants in advance: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Take advantage of free museums and galleries: Many offer free admission on certain days or at specific times.
Explore neighborhoods: Denver has a variety of unique neighborhoods to explore, each with its own character and charm.

Be prepared for altitude sickness: Denver’s high elevation can cause altitude sickness in some people. Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: Denver’s sun can be intense, even during the winter months.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Denver!