Things to do in Denver

Denver packs a lot into a mile-high city, from sprawling parks and family museums to a bar scene that stays open late.

Denver packs a lot into a mile-high city, from sprawling parks and family museums to a bar scene that stays open late. You can catch a Rockies game at Coors Field, wander through Meow Wolf's surreal art maze, or simply grab a booth at a classic diner like Sam's No. 3. The mix keeps things lively.

Outdoors are a big draw here. Washington Park and Sloan's Lake Park offer jogging loops and grassy spots, while Denver Botanic Gardens brings rare plants into the city. For kids, the Denver Zoo, Lakeside Amusement Park, and Urban Air Trampoline Park are solid choices. When the sun goes down, live music venues like The Mission Ballroom and the historic Ogden Theatre host touring acts, and nightclubs like The Church keep dancing going until late. Food ranges from the Denver Central Market's food stalls to Irish pub grub at Moonlight Diner, and Union Station's bars and eateries make a good starting point for an evening out.

Frequently asked questions about Denver

What are the best outdoor spots in Denver?

Denver has plenty of green space. Washington Park and Sloan's Lake Park both have running paths and places to relax, while Confluence Park offers riverside trails and a kayak run. Denver Botanic Gardens is a good pick for plant lovers, and Civic Center Park sits right downtown with fountains and statues.

Are there good things to do with kids in Denver?

Yes. The Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science both have exhibits that appeal to children. For active play, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park has open jump and dodgeball, and Lakeside Amusement Park brings old-school roller coasters and funnel cakes. Many parks, like Paco Sánchez Park, also have playgrounds.

Where can I hear live music in Denver?

You have a lot of options. The Mission Ballroom features a moving stage that adapts to the crowd, while the Ogden Theatre is a historic venue from 1919 that still hosts touring bands. For country music, The Grizzly Rose offers line dancing and a mechanical bull, and Ophelia's Electric Soapbox mixes live bands with a restaurant menu.

What is there to do at night in Denver?

Nightlife ranges from laid-back lounges to high-energy clubs. The Black Box is a DJ-driven dance club with a smoking patio, and Temple Nightclub features touring DJs and bottle service. If you prefer something calmer, Peaks Lounge sits atop a 27-story hotel with panoramic views, and Forest Room 5 has fire pits and a creek in its outdoor area.

Where can I shop and eat in Denver?

Denver Pavilions and 16th Street both offer shopping and outdoor cafes. The Denver Central Market has meat and fish counters, a bakery, and a pizzeria under one roof. For a unique stop, The Wizard's Chest is a toy and costume store with hands-on displays. Union Station also has several bars and eateries with patios.

Things to do in Denver

American RestaurantPhoto of Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Lively outpost of a Southern franchise serving up fried chicken, po' boys, mint juleps, and more.

Denver, CO|4
BarPhoto of 54thirty Rooftop — Bar

54thirty Rooftop

On the 20th-floor roof of Le Méridien hotel, this open-air lounge offers panoramas & fire pits.

Denver, CO|5
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of Snooze, an A.M. Eatery — Breakfast Restaurantvia Google Maps

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Vibrant, retro chain serving a seasonal menu of creative breakfast & lunch fare, plus cocktails.

Denver, CO|5
BarPhoto of The 1up Arcade Bar - LoDo — Barvia Google Maps

The 1up Arcade Bar - LoDo

Retro arcade & pinball games in a bustling, no-frills basement bar with pub food & a jukebox.

Denver, CO|4
Historical LandmarkPhoto of Denver Union Station — Historical Landmarkvia Google Maps

Denver Union Station

Classic bars & eateries with communal seating areas & patios in a stately train station from 1881.

Denver, CO|5
Tapas RestaurantPhoto of El Five — Tapas Restaurant

El Five

Spanish and Eastern Mediterranean small plates and drinks served in a funky, buzzy top-floor penthouse.

Denver, CO|5
American RestaurantPhoto of 5280 Burger Bar — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

5280 Burger Bar

Serves creatively topped burgers, housemade ice creams, and craft beer in a casual, contemporary setup.

Denver, CO|4
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Angelo’s Taverna — Italian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Angelo’s Taverna

Casual Italian plates, oysters, and a full bar featured in homey surroundings.

Denver, CO|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Bear Valley Shopping Center — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Bear Valley Shopping Center

Large shopping enclave with a variety of chain eateries, retail shops & everyday services.

Denver, CO|4
StorePhoto of The Wizard's Chest — Storevia Google Maps

The Wizard's Chest

A wizard sculpture greet customers at this unique toy & costume store with hands-on displays.

Denver, CO|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Stout Street Social — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Stout Street Social

Hip setting for an eclectic & far-flung menu, including New England clam chowder & sushi rolls.

Denver, CO|4
Chinese RestaurantPhoto of Star Kitchen — Chinese Restaurantvia Google Maps

Star Kitchen

Big, busy Chinese fixture known for its vast variety of dim sum dishes for lunch & other classics.

Denver, CO|4
Photo of National Western Stock Showvia Google Maps

National Western Stock Show

Denver, CO|5
Beer GardenPhoto of Green Valley Ranch Beer Garden — Beer Garden

Green Valley Ranch Beer Garden

Shopping mall with a mix of stores, restaurants & services, including healthcare & spa treatments.

Denver, CO|4
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Salt Water Social — Seafood Restaurant

Salt Water Social

Denver, CO|5
Amusement ParkPhoto of Lakeside Amusement Park — Amusement Park

Lakeside Amusement Park

Circa-1908 fun park that's a time warp to the past with wooden roller coasters, funnel cakes & more.

Denver, CO|4
Live Music VenuePhoto of The Grizzly Rose — Live Music Venue

The Grizzly Rose

Kicking spot for country music concerts, line dancing, beers & a mechanical bull. Age limits vary.

Denver, CO|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Henry's Tavern — American Restaurant

Henry's Tavern

Denver, CO|4
Barbecue RestaurantPhoto of Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que — Barbecue Restaurant

Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que

Outlet of a BBQ chain serving wood-smoked meats & sides in an American West-themed space.

Denver, CO|4
Brunch RestaurantPhoto of Four Friends Kitchen — Brunch Restaurantvia Google Maps

Four Friends Kitchen

Southern-style breakfast, brunch & lunch fare in a cool, contemporary atmosphere with a full bar.

Denver, CO|5