things to do in denver area
Denver is a beautiful city surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, offering plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and entertainment options. Here are some things to do in the Denver area:
Outdoor Activities:
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Only an hour and a half from Denver, this national park offers hiking, camping, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Garden of the Gods: A free public park featuring unique red rock formations, hiking trails, and stunning views.
- Mount Evans: Drive to the top of Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s 54 fourteeners (peaks above 14,000 feet).
- Cherry Creek Bike Path: A scenic bike path along Cherry Creek, perfect for a leisurely ride or jog.
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, about an hour and a half from Denver.
Cultural Attractions:
- Denver Art Museum: One of the largest art museums in the West, featuring an impressive collection of American Indian art.
- History Colorado Center: Learn about Colorado’s rich history, from dinosaurs to modern-day culture.
- Molly Brown House Museum: Explore the historic home of Margaret "Molly" Brown, a legendary figure in Denver’s history.
- Larimer Square: Upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of downtown Denver.
- Denver Zoo: Home to over 4,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species.
Entertainment:
- Coors Field: Catch a Colorado Rockies baseball game at this iconic stadium.
- Sports Authority Field at Mile High: Watch the Denver Broncos (football) or Colorado Rapids (soccer) at this state-of-the-art stadium.
- Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park: A popular theme park with roller coasters, water slides, and other attractions.
- Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Enjoy live theater, music, and dance performances.
- Brewery Tours: Discover Denver’s craft beer scene with guided tours of local breweries.
Day Trips:
- Boulder: A charming college town with a vibrant downtown area, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.
- Golden: Visit the Coors Brewery, explore the historic downtown, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and whitewater rafting.
- Georgetown: A picturesque mountain town with historic architecture, shopping, and dining.
- Estes Park: Located at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers outdoor recreation, shopping, and wildlife viewing.
- Central City: A historic mining town with live theater, museums, and outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
These are just a few of the many things to do in the Denver area. The city and its surroundings offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and entertainment.