Denver, USA

Denver Travel Guide

Welcome to Denver, the Mile High City! Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, art, food, or sports, Denver has something for everyone.

Places to Go

Natural Attractions

  • Rocky Mountain National Park: Just an hour and a half west of Denver, this stunning national park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
  • Mount Evans: Take a scenic drive to the highest paved road in North America (14,265 feet) for panoramic views of the Rockies.
  • Chautauqua Trail: Explore the beautiful gardens and scenic trail at this historic site.

City Landmarks

  • Union Station: This stunning Beaux-Arts building is now home to upscale shops, restaurants, and bars. Catch a movie or live music performance here.
  • Denver Art Museum: With its striking architecture and diverse art collection, this museum is a must-visit for any art lover.
  • Larimer Square: Take a stroll through this charming historic district and enjoy shopping, dining, and street performers.

Neighborhoods

  • LoDo (Lower Downtown): Explore the vibrant streets of LoDo, with its trendy shops, restaurants, and bars.
  • Highland: This eclectic neighborhood is home to many artists, musicians, and foodies. Check out the lively atmosphere and unique shops.
  • Capitol Hill: Visit the Colorado State Capitol building and explore the surrounding neighborhood for shopping and dining.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking: Denver has over 200 miles of hiking trails within the city limits. Explore the beautiful parks, forests, and foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Mountain Biking: With numerous parks and trails nearby, Denver is a mountain biker’s paradise.
  • Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the nearby Clear Creek or Arkansas River.

Cultural Experiences

  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Explore exhibits on science, nature, and culture at this world-class museum.
  • History Colorado Center: Learn about the state’s rich history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • Concerts and Festivals: Enjoy live music performances and festivals throughout the year at venues like Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.

Where to Eat

Breakfast Spots

  • Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: This popular breakfast spot serves up creative dishes in a fun atmosphere.
  • The Breakfast King: Try their famous breakfast burritos or other morning favorites.
  • Moe’s Bagel Cafe: Enjoy freshly baked bagels and pastries in a cozy setting.

Lunch and Dinner

  • Avanti Food & Beverage: This innovative food hall features multiple restaurants, bars, and shops under one roof.
  • Bistro Vendôme: Savor French-inspired cuisine in an intimate atmosphere.
  • Los Chingones: Try authentic Mexican street food with a modern twist.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Brown Palace: This historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations and upscale amenities.
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Denver: Enjoy opulent rooms and a rooftop pool with stunning city views.
  • The Four Seasons Hotel Denver: Experience unparalleled luxury and service at this 5-star hotel.

Boutique Hotels

  • Hotel Teatro: Discover unique rooms and a vintage theater feel in the heart of downtown.
  • Hotel Born: Enjoy stylish accommodations and a lively atmosphere near Union Station.
  • The Oxford Hotel: This historic hotel offers cozy rooms, a rooftop bar, and a relaxed vibe.

Things to Know

Weather

  • High Altitude: Denver is located at 5,280 feet above sea level. Be prepared for dry air and potential altitude sickness.
  • Weather Extremes: Denver experiences rapid weather changes, with snow in winter and warm temperatures in spring.

Transportation

  • Denver International Airport (DEN): Fly into DEN, which offers easy access to the city via light rail or shuttle.
  • Public Transit: Use RTD buses and trains to get around town or explore nearby attractions.
  • Ride-sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in Denver for convenient transportation.

Tips

Safety

  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Respect Neighborhoods: Be considerate of local residents and avoid loud noise or disruptions.

Tourist Information

  • Visit the Official Denver Tourism Website: Find information on attractions, events, and travel tips at visitdenver.com.
  • Get a Visitor Guide: Pick up a free visitor guide at various locations throughout the city for insider knowledge and maps.

Bonus Recommendations

Hidden Gems

  • The 1-Up Barcade: Experience retro gaming, craft beer, and a fun atmosphere.
  • City Park’s Lakeside Cafe: Enjoy waterfront dining with scenic views of City Park.
  • The Denver Book Club: Join this monthly book club for literary discussions and socializing.

Insider Tips

  • Take a Brewery Tour: Visit the numerous breweries in Denver to sample local craft beers.
  • Explore Street Art: Discover vibrant street art murals throughout the city, especially in the LoDo neighborhood.
  • Attend a Sporting Event: Catch a Broncos football game or Rockies baseball game at Mile High Stadium.

We hope you enjoy your time exploring Denver! Remember to always be respectful of the city’s history and culture, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from locals. Happy travels!