A Complete Guide To Denver, Colorado
Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, it’s known for its breathtaking mountain views, thriving craft beer scene, and a laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to historic western charm, world-class hiking trails, or Denver’s unique mix of culture and creativity, there’s something here for every traveler.
In this ultimate Denver travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting - including the best neighborhoods, must-see attractions, where to stay, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time in Colorado’s capital city.
This post may contain affiliate links - if you purchase a tour or hotel via Daisies Abroad we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you
About Denver
Safety - Denver is not the safest major city in the United States. Due to gang violence parts of Denver can be a bit unsafe. Avoid Montbello, Park Hill, Belcaro, Capitol Hill, and Five Points these areas are known to be a bit unsafe. Overall Dever is a safe tourist destination, just steer clear of the areas I listed and you will be fine.
History - Denver was first inhabited by indigenous tribes (Apaches, Utes, Cheyennes, Comanches, and Arapahoes.) In 1858 Denver was established by people from Georgia who found gold in the area. The Denver Gold Rush lasted a year from 1858 - 1859. Read more about the history of Denver in this article.
Best Denver Hotels
Where I Stayed In Denver
The Ritz Carlton Denver - Perfectly located in the heart of the city, the hotel is just a short walk from some of Denver’s best shops, restaurants, and attractions. From the moment I arrived, everything felt elevated. The rooms are spacious and elegant, offering a perfect mix of comfort and style.
Luxury Denver Hotels
Four Seasons Denver - The Four Seasons Denver offers luxurious accommodations. At The Four Seasons Denver you will find an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, a gym, a restaurant, and more.
The Kimpton Hotel - The Kimpton Denver is located right by the famous Union Station and is home to opulence accommodations. At The Kimpton Hotel you will find a restaurant, spacious rooms, a gym, breakfast served daily, a bar, and more.
Middle Range Denver Hotels
The Brown Palace Hotel - The Brown Palace Hotel is a Marriott hotel by Autograph Collection. I stayed at an Autograph hotel in Richmond and loved it. At The Brown Palace Hotel you will be met with three restaurants, a spa, a bar, a gym, and more.
The Ramble Hotel - The Ramble Hotel is located right by Coors field and is a lovely hotel if you a looking for a boutique hotel in Denver. The highly rated Ramble Hotel is beautifully decorated and offers cozy rooms, a gorgeous bar, three restaurants, and more.
Budget Denver Hotels
The Life House - The Life House Hotel is situated in the trendy River North neighborhood and offers affordable, yet stylish accommodations. At The Life House you will be met with a restaurant, a bar, family rooms, and more.
Populous - Located in the heart of Denver you will find the amazing Populous Hotel. This boutique hotel is so cool! Next time I visit Denver I will definitely be staying at Populous. They almost never have rooms here so book ahead!
What To Do In Denver
Union Station
Visiting Union Station is easily one of the most popular things to do in Denver. Located in LODO (Lower Downtown), Union Station is more than just a train station. You will find shops, restaurants, a hotel, and of course, trains at Unions Station. Union Station opened its doors in 1881 and since has developed into Denver's crowned jewel.
For more information on Union Station visit the Union Station website here.
Coors Field
Situated a quick walks away from Union Station, Coors Field is home to the Colorado Rockies. If you are a baseball fan catch a game at Coors Field. Even if you are not into baseball, Coors Field is still worth a visit. Coors Field is a great place to do a tour of. We did this one and we also got to see the game.
⚾Book Here - Tour of Coors Field
Go Thrifting
One thing that took me by surprise in Denver was all of the thrift and vintage shops. You can find unique shops all over the city. Some of my favorites include The Common Collective, Garage Sale Vintage, and The Ten Penny Store. If you are lucky, you may come across some old western cowboy boots!
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
No guide to Denver is complete without the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. This iconic landmark is possibly the best concert venue in the world. You can also do hiking in the Red Rocks Park if you are a fellow nature lover. To make planning you trip to the Red Rocks easier - do this tour. You can see the amphitheatre and do hiking with a local guide all in one day!
🥾Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Tour
Larimer Square
Larimer Square is a lovely place to do any shopping or dining. Located in LoDo (Lower Downtown) and within walking distance of the Ritz Carlton, Larimer Square is lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and all of your favorite shops. You will also find fairy lights stretching from one side of the square to another. My favorite spots in Larimer Square include Dog Savvy, Milly Rose, Garage Sale Vintage, and Bao Brewhouse.
For more information on the shops and dining options is Larimer Square, visit their website here.
Rocky Mountains National Park
Do a day trip to the Rocky Mountains National Park from Denver. We did this full day trip and had a blast! It is perfect if you are short on time and only have a day to explore the Rocky Mountains. We had the opportunity to visit Horseshoe Park, Trail Ridge Road, Many Parks Curve Lookout, and more on this tour. The Rocky Mountains are a must visit while in Colorado. I wish I had more time to explore them.
🥾Rocky Mountains National Park Day Tour
Denver Botanical Gardens
I'll be honest, Botanical Gardens have always board me. However, the Denver Botanical Garden may have changed my attitude towards these gardens. At the Denver Botanical Garden situated in the Capitol Hill area you will find an array of different plants and flowers, water features, wildlife, and classes. You can visit the Botanical Gardens and purchase your ticket there or online.
Explore The River North Neighborhood
The River North neighborhood (also known as RiNo) is considered Denver's art district. While in the cool and trendy part of Denver make sure to visit the Denver Central Market, Alto Gallery, RiNo Art Park, Arkins Promenade, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.
Visit Casa Bonita
The only reason I wanted to visit Casa Bonita in the first place was because my one of favorite South Park episode is titled Casa Bonita. I had to check it out for myself. It is definitely worth visiting - especially of you have kids. At Casa Bonita you will find amazing mexican food, live music, a waterfall, and more.
Get your tickets online here.
Dairy Block
Dairy Block is located right next to Union Station and is home to tons of food. You will find cuisines from all different nationalities at this grab and go street food market. Dairy Block is a great place to go any time of day. You can find coffee shops, bars, an ice cream parlor, and more here. In the evening there is sometimes live music as well.
More on Dairy Block here.
16th Street Mall
16th Street Mall is located in downtown Denver. This sunning outdoor mall is lined with shops, restaurants and cafes. During the holidays you will find festival decor all along the street and the mile high christmas tree. For more information on 16th Street Mall check out their website here.
Best Tours To Take In Denver
Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver - If you are looking for a hiking day trip from Denver this tour of Pikes Peak is perfect for you. You will have the opportunity to get in the Colorado's world famous nature and learn all about the Garden of the Gods.
Downtown Denver Food Tour - The best way to see any city is by doing a food tour. This Downtown Denver food tour will take you to all of the best spots in downtown Denver.
Zip Lining Adventure - Colorado is a great place to do zip lining. The picturesque mountains and forest make zip lining in Colorado unforgettable. On this zip lining tour you will have the opportunity to ride two of the longest zip lines in Colorado.
Denver Walking Tour - Walking tours are a fun and inexpensive way to see any city. This Denver Walking Tour will take you to all of the cities highlights in just two hours.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal Safari - This Rocky Mountains safari is probably one of the coolest and most unique tours to take out of Denver. On this tour you will have the opportunity to see wild Bison and other amazing animals up close and tour the beautiful Rocky Mountains with a guide!
Best Restaurants In Denver
Best Denver Coffee Shops
Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters - Located in Lakewood, Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters, is easily one of the best coffee shop in Denver. At Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters you will find carefully curated coffee, amazing pastries, and tons of places to sit and do work.
Huckleberry Roasters - Huckleberry Roasters is located right in downtown Denver. At the trendy Huckleberry Roasters you will find amazing coffee, breakfast food, pastries, and more.
Corvus Coffee Roasters - Located on the outskirts of Denver, Corvus Coffee Roasters takes coffee seriously. At Corvus Coffee Roasters you will be met with outstanding service and some of the best coffee you will ever have!
Best Denver Restaurants
Guard and Grace - Guard and Grace is a fancy steakhouse located in the downtown area. I think this may have been one of the most luxurious restaurants I have been to. Everything was perfect - the atmosphere, the food, the drinks, the staff.
Bodega Denver - Bodega Denver is perfect if you are looking for something a bit more casual. Serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner this iconic sandwich joint is a must visit in Denver. Bodega Denver also serves amazing coffee!
Work & Class - Work & Class is a wonderful restaurant if you are looking for a laid back spot in the heart of the Five Points neighborhood. At Work & Class you will find american classics for a great price.
Spuntino - Spuntino is one of Denver's best Italian restaurants. At Spuntino you will be met with incredible Italian food, a lovely bar, great service, and more!
How To Get Around Denver
Denver is one of the most walkable cities in the United States. I didn't use any public transportation in Denver - walking is the best way to see a city!
Denver does have a metro if you need it. You can find stations all over the city. For more information on Denver Public Transportation visit their website here.
When To Visit Denver
You can visit Denver year round! Denver is most popular in the early spring and winter for skiing and the summer. In the winter Denver doesn't get too cold. Coming from Boston it felt mild. I visited in February and was able to walk outside with a light jacket and be comfortable. If you are just exploring Denver you can visit anytime of year, but summer is the most comfortable. If you are wanting to do some hiking - visit in the fall or summer. For skiing Colorado is best in the winter and early spring.
A Complete Guide To Denver Wrap Up
The mile high city is a great place for a USA city break. While Denver isn't as popular as New York, Miami, or Los Angeles it is totally worth adding to your USA itinerary. I hope that this complete guide to Denver helps you plan the perfect trip to Colorado. If you liked this post we think you will love our Locals Guide To Boston, our Complete Guide To New York City, The Best Guide To Miami, and 24 hours in Denver.
Happy Travels,
Daisy
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