24 Hours In Denver

Every year, thousands of travelers pass through Denver - whether it's for a quick layover or a stop on the way to Colorado’s iconic mountains. Known as the gateway to the Rockies, Denver is surrounded by some of the best skiing and hiking in the country. But while the real adventure lies just beyond the city, Denver itself has plenty to offer. From vibrant neighborhoods to scenic parks and local eats, this 24-hour itinerary will help you make the most of a day in the Mile High City.

This post is all about 24 hours in Denver

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About Denver

The mile high city, Denver is literally one mile above sea level. Denver is known for there hippies, museums, and being the birthplace of Chipotle. Denver is not in the mountains, like most people think, but near mountains - which makes it a top destination for nature lovers, hikers, and skiers. Denver is also becoming a highly sought after place to reside as it is now the 19th most popular city in the United States and growing.

When To Visit Denver

Denver is a great place to visit year round.

The winters of course have the amazing skiing. It also does not get too cold in Colorado during the winters. Still cold but very manageable.

The summer is the best time to visit if you love to hike or if you just want to explore the city. Warm weather is always the best when exploring a city. Denver also does not get too hot in the summers. Usually 70s and 80s fahrenheit.

Fall is great for hikers who want to see the fall foliage. The fall foliage in the Rocky Mountains is so gorgeous. Fall is such a great time to visit Colorado because it is the best temperature and so beautiful.

Where to Stay In Denver

The top neighborhoods to stay in Denver are Capitol Hill, Uptown, Highlands, Sloans Lake, Baker, Cherry Creek, Downtown - CBD, Downtown - LoDo, Five Points, Washington Park and Golden Triangle.

The Best Denver Hotels

$ - The Source

$$ - The Flora House

$$$ - Limelight

$$$$ - The Ritz Carlton

How To Get Around Denver

Denver is one of the most walkable cities in the United States. You can seriously walk anywhere. If you are wanting to go the Rocky Mountains you can easily rent a car at the airport. Or if you just want to do one day at the Rocky Mountains you can do a tour.

24 Hours In Denver

Start Your Day With Breakfast + Coffee In Denver

I loved Sunny's on my trip to Denver. Sunny's is a sustainable diner with Peruvian influence. The place itself looks like your typical American diner, but the food is next level and super unique.

I also really enjoyed Stowaway Kitchen. The menu is a bit intimidating when you first see it but once you order you will be stocked at how good your meal is. I recommend the black rice porridge.

For an on the go bite to eat Rosenbergs Bagels is the way to go. You can order rosenbergs online and pick them up. Rosenbergs is so good and perfect if you are on a tight schedule. I got the Frenchie (because I have Frenchies at home) and it was insanely good.

Visit River North

River North is a neighborhood covered in street art and lined with some of the best food in the city. River North is home to the Denver Central Market. Denver Central Market is full of gourmet food and art. Be sure to check it out while in the River North neighborhood.

Also in River North is Mestizo - Curtis Park. Mestizo - Curtis Park is Denver's oldest park. It's a great place to walk around and admire the sights. You could have picnic in Mestizo - Curtis Park as well!

Book Here - River North Walking Tour

Lower Downtown

Next stop on your 24 hours in Denver is LoDo (Lower Downtown). LoDo is the oldest part of Denver. While in LoDo Be sure to check out Larimer Square. Larimer Square is a no car square with shops and restaurants. There are a ton of super cool thrift shops. Be sure to look in a old western store were they sell cowboy boots and leather jackets.

The next thing you can do in LoDo is the Museum of Contemporary Art. Only $10 for adults to enter along with a student and military discount.

Best Places For Lunch In Denver

At this point you are probably a bit hungry for lunch.

Since you are in LoDo this is your perfect opportunity to get Ultreia. Ultreia is located in the historical Union Station. Another one of my favorite restaurants in Denver. The Green Tomato Sandwich is insanely good.

If you are in the mood for some asian food check out Cholon. Cholon is located in Lower Downtown. You could come here for lunch or dinner. The Miso Glazed Salmon is delicious!

Union Station

Union Station is not just a train station. Union Station is home to some of the best restaurants and shops in Denver! You can also stay at the Crawford in Union Station. You have to go to Union Station. It is easy to get to in the city and it is so fun.

Book Here - Union Station Walking Tour

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Garden is one of the best botanic gardens I've been to. There are features of ecosystems from around the world. My favorites were Japan and South Africa. You could spend up to three hours in the Denver Botanic Gardens and not be board. I would set aside at least an hour here. The Denver Botanic Garden is definitely worth adding to your 24 hours in Denver itinerary.

Book Here - Denver Botanical Gardens General Admission

The Best Restaurants in Denver

Frasca Food and Wine was super fancy so if you have kids maybe don't go here. The food is absolutely divine. Make sure to budget for Frasca because this place is not cheap.

Another place that I loved was Tocabe. Tocade is a super casual take out place so if you are tried and just want to eat at the hotel this place is for you. Tocabe is Indian American Food.

Best Tours To Take In Denver

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre - If you have extra time in Denver try to get over to the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Try to get ticket to a concert here it's such a cool experience. If you can't get ticket to a concert it is still totally worth visiting.

Mount Evans - If you have an extra day in Denver spend it at the close by Mount Evans.

The Rocky Mountain - If you are less of a city person and more of a nature person maybe opt out of this 24 hours in Denver and instead go to the Rocky Mountains for a day.

Coors Field - Catch a baseball game at Coors Field. Grab some of the famous Denver beer and enjoy the game.

24 Hours In Denver Wrap Up

You would be surprised at how much you can see in a city in just 24 hours! I hope this 24 hours in Denver helps you plan a great day in the mile high city. This guide highlights all of the best parts of Denver. If you liked this post we think you will also like our east coast road trip and my Nantucket itinerary.

Happy Travels,

Daisy