Denver Travel Guide

Denver is known as the Mile High City—not because marijuana is legal here, but because its elevation is 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level. This picturesque city serves as the state capital of Colorado and boasts the largest population within the state. Enveloped by luxurious hotels, world-class museums, vibrant public murals, and scenic parks, Denver acts as a popular gateway to the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Furthermore, it is proud to host the second-largest performing arts center in the U.S., coming in just after Lincoln Center in New York.

Moreover, sports enthusiasts can indulge in various games, from watching the Denver Broncos play football and the Colorado Rockies play baseball to seeing the Denver Nuggets play basketball. For fans of hockey and soccer, the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Outlaws provide thrilling entertainment. If you’re keen on outdoor adventures, you may consider hiking in the sprawling Rocky Mountains or hitting the slopes during winter.

In addition to outdoor activities, Denver is a beer aficionado’s paradise with an impressive range of craft breweries, including Coors, the world’s largest single-site brewery located just outside the city in Golden. The city also hosts the Great American Beer Festival each year, further solidifying its reputation as a beer town. Additionally, while marijuana is legal in Colorado, visitors will find various recreational marijuana dispensaries throughout Denver.

Time Zone

Mountain Standard Time

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Denver depends on your interests. For instance, May brings festivities like Cinco de Mayo, the Denver Arts Festival, and the Colfax Marathon. Summer months feature events such as PrideFest and the Five Points Jazz Festival in June, as well as a county fair in July. Fall is particularly appealing for food enthusiasts, with events like A Taste of Colorado and the Great American Beer Festival. During winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to the nearby slopes, and the Denver Botanic Gardens hosts a stunning holiday light show throughout the months from November to January, along with the annual National Western Stock Show in January.

Things to Know

While Denver is located near the Rocky Mountains, it is not situated directly in them. In fact, approximately 200 named mountain peaks are visible from the city. Owing to the altitude, alcoholic beverages have a heightened effect; therefore, it is advisable to stay hydrated and pace yourself while consuming drinks.

Recreational marijuana is legal for adults 21 and older, with a maximum possession limit set at one ounce. Visitors interested in cannabis can visit either recreational or medical marijuana dispensaries. Those without a prescription should find a recreational dispensary but should also remember that public consumption remains illegal, as does transporting marijuana across state lines.

How to Get Around

Trains: Denver’s extensive rail network features 12 light and commuter rail lines covering 113 miles, serving more than 50 stations. Notable trains include one that connects the airport to Union Station downtown, making it more affordable compared to high parking costs in downtown Denver.

Buses: With 170 bus routes and over 9,000 local stops across eight counties, local buses are a convenient means of transport, especially within the city center and its suburbs. An express bus connects Denver and Boulder.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available through companies such as Denver Yellow Cab, with service from downtown Denver to the airport costing around $55.

Ride-share: Options like Lyft, Uber, and Migo offer ride-sharing services throughout Denver.

Best Hotels

The Ramble Hotel

Address: 1280 25th St., Denver, CO 80205
Phone: (720) 996-6300

This quaint boutique hotel features just 50 rooms nestled in Denver’s River North Art District, a colorful area filled with jazz bars, delectable restaurants, breweries, and art galleries. Designed for light sleepers, the hotel focuses on minimizing outside noise.

The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton

Address: 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Phone: (303) 572-8000

Pet-friendly and conveniently located near the Denver Art Museum and Colorado Convention Center, this hotel showcases an extensive art collection throughout its property, complete with a rooftop bar and rooms that boast amazing mountain views.

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection

Address: 321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 297-3111

An iconic downtown hotel established as a luxury destination in 1892, the Brown Palace features a stunning lobby, complete with an eight-story atrium and a stained-glass skylight, plus its very own rooftop beehive.

Patterson Inn

Address: 420 E. 11th Ave., Denver, CO 80203
Phone: (303) 955-5142

A National Landmark, Patterson Inn is housed within a charming sandstone building dating back to 1891, offering themed bedrooms along with a cozy atmosphere filled with books and games.

Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn

Address: 1207 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203
Phone: (303) 839-5221

This National Historic Landmark features eight guest rooms named after local wildflowers, providing proximity to the Molly Brown House Museum and the top attractions of Denver.

The Crawford Hotel

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (720) 460-3700

Situated atop Denver’s Union Station, this hotel offers direct train access and a unique design that recreates the essence of rail travel.

The Curtis, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Address: 1405 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 571-0300

This quirky downtown hotel features thematic rooms and is conveniently located across from the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver

Address: 1717 Champa St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 296-1717

This stylish and pet-friendly hotel features a lobby designed to evoke a cozy living room feel while offering luxurious accommodations.

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

Address: 1881 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 312-3800

Known for its spacious rooms with views of the Rocky Mountains, the Ritz-Carlton is equipped with a fitness center and spa, providing guests with plenty of luxury.

Best Restaurants

Root Down

Address: 1600 W. 33rd Ave., Denver, CO 80211
Phone: (303) 993-4200

Featuring a creative menu and vibrant cocktails, Root Down offers delicious brunch and dinner options in a unique atmosphere.

El Five

Address: 2930 Umatilla, Fifth Floor, Denver, CO 80211
Phone: (303) 524-9193

With its rooftop patio providing stunning views, El Five specializes in pan-Mediterranean tapas, making it an ideal spot for social dining.

Bar Dough

Address: 2227 W 32nd Ave., Denver, CO 80211
Phone: (720) 668-8506

With an Italian menu offering elevated traditional dishes, Bar Dough excels in pizza, pasta, and seasonal specials.

Denver Biscuit Company

Address: Multiple Locations

This beloved brunch spot serves up delicious Southern-style comfort food, including biscuit sandwiches and tasty sides.

Ultreia

Address: 1701 Wynkoop St. #125, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 534-1970

Known for tapas inspired by Spain and Portugal, Ultreia provides a delightful dining experience within Denver’s Union Station.

Tavernetta

Address: 1889 16th St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (720) 605-1889

With a focus on handmade pasta and an extensive wine list, Tavernetta offers an exceptional Italian dining experience.

The Wolf’s Tailor

Address: 4058 Tejon St., Denver, CO 80211
Phone: (720) 456-6705

Blending local and international influences, The Wolf’s Tailor features a seasonal multicourse tasting menu that promises a memorable dining experience.

Things to Do

Rocky Mountains

Denver serves as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, renowned for their breathtaking scenery and adventure opportunities. With numerous hiking trails and skiing destinations, the Rockies are a must-visit.

Cannabis Dispensaries

Denver is filled with numerous cannabis dispensaries, making it easy to explore Colorado’s legal marijuana scene. Euflora and The Herbal Cure are among the popular choices for both first-timers and seasoned users.

Brewery Tour

Catering to beer lovers, Denver is a home to many craft breweries, including the Coors Brewery. Explore these local brewing establishments and sample their finest offerings during brewery tours.

Denver Art Museum

One of the largest art museums in the American West, the Denver Art Museum boasts a vast collection from cultures around the globe, set within stunning architectural spaces.

Denver Botanic Gardens

A peaceful retreat full of diverse plant collections, the Denver Botanic Gardens provides a tranquil atmosphere, with seasonal light displays during the winter holidays.

Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol offers free guided tours where visitors can learn about the architecture and history, including its magnificent gold dome.

Molly Brown House Museum

Dedicated to socialite and philanthropist Molly Brown, this museum tells the captivating story of “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” and features historical exhibits.

Forney Museum of Transportation

Fascination with transportation history comes alive at the Forney Museum, showcasing various vehicles, including steam locomotives and classic cars.

16th Street Mall

This pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous shops and restaurants, making it a lively destination for shopping and dining.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks is famed for its concerts and outdoor events, making it one of the most popular venues for music lovers.

Best Shopping

Rockmount Ranch Wear

Address: 1626 Wazee St., Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 629-7777

This iconic store offers authentic Western wear with a historical significance, having outfitted many celebrities over the years.

Inspyre Boutique

Address: Multiple Locations

Dedicated to affordability and style, Inspyre Boutique offers trendy clothing and accessories priced under $100.

Art District on Santa Fe

Address: 525 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, CO 80204
Phone: (720) 773-2373

This artistic neighborhood is home to numerous galleries and vintage shops that cater to art enthusiasts and treasure hunters.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

Address: 3000 E 1st Ave., Denver, CO 80206
Phone: (303) 388-3900

An upscale shopping destination, Cherry Creek features luxury brands and high-end retailers.

Denver Premium Outlets

Address: 13801 Grant St., Thornton, CO 80023
Phone: (303) 200-3805

Located a short drive from Denver, this outlet offers significant discounts on many popular brand-name items.

Neighborhoods to Know

Central Business District: Home to the 16th Street Mall, this area features numerous restaurants, shops, and the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

Highlands: A relaxed neighborhood with great food options, Highlands also offers panoramic views of Denver.

LoDo: Known for its energetic nightlife, LoDo features Union Station, Larimer Square, and a host of lively establishments.

Capitol Hill: A densely populated area filled with bars and restaurants, Capitol Hill is also home to the prominent Molly Brown House Museum.

Five Points: Once the cultural hub for jazz, today it is a trendy neighborhood celebrated for its vibrant arts and culinary scene.

Weather

Denver experiences hot summers and cold, dry winters, with temperatures seldom dropping below 6°F or exceeding 96°F. Snow occurs primarily between November and February.

The following highlights the average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month:

• January: 20°F to 49°F
• February: 21°F to 49°F
• March: 29°F to 58°F
• April: 35°F to 65°F
• May: 45°F to 73°F
• June: 55°F to 86°F
• July: 61°F to 92°F
• August: 59°F to 90°F
• September: 50°F to 82°F
• October: 37°F to 68°F
• November: 27°F to 57°F
• December: 19°F to 47°F

Apps to Download

• RTD: Mobile tickets for trains and buses. iOS | Android
• ParkMobile: Pay for local parking. iOS | Android
• Colorado Trail Explorer: Hiking information and trail maps. iOS | Android

For more tips on exploring Denver, check out resources specific to each destination you plan to visit.