Summary of Free Activities in Denver
The Mile High City offers plenty of free things to do all year long. Enjoy Denver without spending a dime with this comprehensive list of the top free Denver activities, ranging from scenic parks to historical sites across the metro area.
Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colo., is a key part of the Denver Mountain Parks system. Admission to the park is free, although tickets are required for outdoor concerts and movie screenings held in the natural amphitheater. The park boasts numerous trails and a visitor’s center that highlights decades of concerts held at Red Rocks. It is open daily from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset, though early closures may occur for concerts. Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash.
Colorado State Capitol
The Colorado State Capitol provides 45-minute guided tours at no cost from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can also opt for a free self-guided tour when the building is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Visitors need to pass through security to enter the capitol, located at 200 E. Colfax Ave. Note that the Colorado State Capitol is closed on state holidays, with exceptions for Martin Luther King Day and Presidents’ Day.
United States Mint in Denver
The United States Mint in Denver, located at 320 West Colfax Ave., offers free tours of its manufacturing facility that produces U.S. coins, such as quarters. Reservations are necessary for the tours, which are conducted every hour from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Please be aware that purses, bags, cameras, food, and weapons are prohibited on the tours.
Coors Brewery
The Coors Brewery in Golden, Colo., provides free tours from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Thursday through Monday, and 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The brewery, established in 1873 by German immigrant Adolph Coors, is closed for tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The tours end with two complimentary glasses of beer for visitors over 21 years old. Many locals enjoy the “express tour,” which allows them to bypass the brewing process for immediate access to the bar.
Washington Park
Washington Park, affectionately referred to as “Wash Park” by locals, is a popular spot situated at the intersection of S. Downing St. and E. Louisiana Ave. The park features well-maintained running and bike paths, making it ideal for exercise and people-watching. Visitors can fish in the park’s lakes, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully designed flower gardens. Additionally, tennis and basketball courts are available for fitness enthusiasts. During weekends, expect lively volleyball games to join in on.
City Park
Denver’s City Park, located at 17th Ave. and York St., hosts several top attractions such as the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Situated within the park is a public golf course too. City Park Jazz occurs in the summer, offering free concerts, along with festivals like the Denver Black Arts Festival in July. The park is home to numerous scenic trails, typically less crowded compared to Washington Park.
Four Mile Historic Park
Visitors can explore the grounds of Four Mile Historic Park at 715 S. Forest St. for free, although there is an admission fee for entering the museum. This historic site on the banks of Cherry Creek was once a wagon stop during the frontier era. The park is open from 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Friday, and 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For further information, contact 720-865-0800.
Free Days at Denver Museums
The Scientific & Cultural Facilities District tax of 0.1% supports free admission for Colorado residents on selected days at Denver museums. For instance, the Denver Art Museum offers free entry on the first Saturday of every month, while the Four Mile Historic Park is free the first Friday each month. Other free museum days, including those at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo, vary by month. Colorado residents should present a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID to gain entry.
Free Denver Festivals
Throughout the year, Denver hosts numerous free festivals that celebrate the community. Notable events include the People’s Fair in June and A Taste of Colorado each September during Labor Day weekend. Most festivals offer free entry and entertainment, though visitors may be inclined to spend on food and drink vendors.
City Park Jazz
Every Sunday from June to August, City Park hosts free jazz concerts, where picnickers and music enthusiasts gather around the bandstand near Ferril Lake at 6 p.m.
