Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and adventure. With its stunning mountain views, world-class restaurants, and plentiful outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this Mile High City. From visiting the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre to exploring the city’s many museums, here are the top 20 places to see in Denver.
1. Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic places to visit in Denver. Located just outside the city, the amphitheatre is carved into the side of a mountain and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The venue is renowned for its incredible acoustics and has hosted some of the world’s biggest music acts, including the Beatles, U2, and Bruce Springsteen.
2. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in the United States. It houses a wide variety of art from around the world, including works from the Renaissance, Impressionism, and modern art. The museum also features several special exhibitions throughout the year.
3. Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. It is home to more than 4,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and tigers, and features several interactive exhibits. There are also a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
4. Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. It features more than 45 acres of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a children’s garden, and a rose garden. The gardens are also home to several sculptures and art installations.
5. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the top science museums in the country. It features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a planetarium, a human body exhibit, and a dinosaur exhibit. The museum also offers several educational programs and activities for visitors.
6. Denver Union Station
Denver Union Station is a historic building located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1881 and is now home to several restaurants, shops, and bars. The station also offers guided tours and is a popular place to take photos.
7. Coors Field
Coors Field is the home of the Colorado Rockies baseball team. It is one of the most famous stadiums in the country and offers a great atmosphere for watching a game. The stadium also features several restaurants and bars, as well as a museum and a gift shop.
8. 16th Street Mall
The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-friendly area in downtown Denver. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a movie theater and a bowling alley. The mall also features several public art installations and is a great place to take a stroll.
9. Denver Capitol Building
The Denver Capitol Building is the state capitol of Colorado. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city and is a popular place to take photos. The building also offers guided tours and is home to several government offices.
10. Larimer Square
Larimer Square is one of the oldest and most historic areas in Denver. It is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as several art galleries and museums. The area is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year.
11. Denver Public Library
The Denver Public Library is the largest library in the city. It houses more than 2 million books and features several special collections, including a rare book collection and a genealogy collection. The library also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
12. Cherry Creek Shopping Center
The Cherry Creek Shopping Center is one of the largest shopping centers in the city. It features more than 200 stores, including high-end designer boutiques, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars. The center also hosts several events throughout the year.
13. Denver Aquarium
The Denver Aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. It is home to more than 500 species of fish, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as several interactive exhibits. The aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors.
14. Denver Mint
The Denver Mint is one of the oldest and most famous mints in the United States. It is home to the world’s largest gold depository and offers guided tours of the facility. The mint also features a gift shop and a museum.
15. Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
The Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield is a beautiful outdoor oasis located in the suburbs of Denver. It features more than 700 acres of gardens, including a wildflower meadow, a children’s garden, and a butterfly garden. The gardens also offer several educational programs and activities.
16. Denver Performing Arts Complex
The Denver Performing Arts Complex is the largest performing arts center in the city. It is home to several theaters, including the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and the Buell Theatre, as well as several restaurants and bars. The complex also hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
17. Denver City Park
Denver City Park is one of the largest parks in the city. It features more than 300 acres of trails, open spaces, and gardens, as well as a lake and several playgrounds. The park also offers several educational programs and activities for visitors.
18. Denver International Airport
The Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It is home to several restaurants, shops, and bars, as well as an observation deck with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The airport also features several art installations and is a popular place to take photos.
19. Denver Union Station Neighborhood
The Denver Union Station Neighborhood is a vibrant area located near the historic train station. It is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as several art galleries and museums. The area also hosts several events throughout the year.
20. Washington Park
Washington Park is one of the most popular parks in Denver. It features more than 165 acres of open spaces, trails, and gardens, as well as several playgrounds and a lake. The park also offers several educational programs and activities for visitors.