Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a beautiful city near the mountains. It has been nicknamed the “Mile High City” because its elevation level is exactly 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level.
With scenic panoramic mountain peak views from the city, the beauty (not just the high elevation) really does take your breath away!
The city is known for its breweries, marijuana dispensaries, and for being a paradise for outdoor adventure lovers, making Denver the perfect place for a fun weekend getaway.
If you have time, consider venturing out of the city to visit the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park nearby. It’s less than a two-hour drive from Denver so I highly recommend it.
Make sure to read my 10 Essential Tips for Your Road Trip before hitting the road.
Here is my ultimate guide to Denver in a weekend!
Hang out at Union Station
Union Station is the prettiest train station that I have ever seen! Known as “Denver’s Living Room,” it is clear why so many people come to relax or to grab a drink at the bar and catch up with friends, not just to use it as a transportation hub. The interior is beautiful and it’s very clean and well kept.
Inside you will find plenty of seating, a hotel, bar, shops, and places to eat.
There aren’t a TON of food options, but if you’re hungry I highly recommend having brunch at Snooze, an AM Eatery.
In a hurry? Walk over to Pigtrain Coffee Co for a quick cup of coffee. Try the Dirty Horchata!
Address: 1701 Wynkoop St Denver, CO 80202
Visit the State Capitol
Snap a picture on the 15th step on the west side of the Colorado State Capitol Building. It is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level – one mile high.
Although the State Capitol building isn’t as impressive as the the one in Austin (in my humble opinion) it is still worth taking a peek inside to learn some interesting facts about Colorado. If you’re visiting during the warmer summer months, it will also provide a nice little break from the heat!
Address: 200 E. Colfax Ave. Denver, CO 80203
Take a Stroll through Dairy Block
One of my favorite things to do in Denver, or any city I visit, is to wander around fun and unique neighborhoods.
Dairy Block is a fun alley with a food hall (the Milk Market), bars, a hotel, shops, restaurants, and some cool street art.
The little milk bottle string of lights floating overhead is so adorable! It’s a good place to check out, especially if you’re looking for a date night idea or a hangout spot.
Address: 1800 Wazee St, Denver, CO 80202
Have Lunch at a Food hall
A food hall is the best solution when you and your friends can’t decide on what to eat!
Avanti Food & Beverage has many delicious food vendor options and a rooftop outdoor patio area with a chill vibe.
If you want to make your taste buds happy, head over to “Quiero Arepas.”
Address: 3200 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
What to order: Pabellon arepa with passion fruit juice
Explore the RiNo District
The River North Art District, known as RiNo, was one of the neighborhood’s that I was most excited to explore over the weekend in Denver. It is home to tons of street murals, food halls, and breweries and it’s a fun, artsy neighborhood in Denver to explore!
If you’re hungry, check out Denver Central Market, a food hall with a lot of dining options. Afterward, head to the back alley to snap photos of the street murals.
Address: 2669 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Have a Drink at a Brewery
Colorado ranks #4 for the state with the most craft breweries, which means you have to visit a brewery!
If you happen to be in The River North Art District, known as RiNo district, when you get a little thirsty, step inside of Our Mutual Friend brewery. It’s a small place with good music, good vibes, and good beer.
Address: 2810 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
What to order: For a light refreshing beer, order the Inner Light or the Memory Log.
Catch a Colorado Rockies game
If you’re a baseball fan, you can’t visit Colorado and not catch a Colorado Rockies game when they are playing!
With both day and night game options at the Coors Field baseball stadium, you have a good chance of fitting a game into your fun weekend of things to do in Denver.
Address: 2001 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205
Have an Ice Cream at Little Man Ice Cream
Oh. my. god.
Do yourself a favor and head to Little Man Ice Cream for a late-night snack.
Be prepared for a wait, but do not let the long line scare you away. I thought that by going on a Wednesday night, around 10pmish, I would somehow get lucky and not have to wait in line. Well, that didn’t happen. But, the line moved SUPER fast.
So stick around and do not miss out on this incredible ice cream!
Address: 2620 16th St, Denver, CO 80211
What to order: Salted Oreo and Chocolate flavors
See a Concert at Red Rocks
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a beautiful world-famous outdoor concert venue nestled among two huge red rock formations.
Although it’s technically not in Denver, it is a quick 30-minute drive that will not disappoint!
Red Rocks is also a popular spot to watch the sunrise or for exercise activities. Many people do yoga, walk, run, and push-up their way through the seating section! There are many hiking trails in the area, as well.
Tip: Try to park as high as you can for the shortest amount of hiking and a less strenuous walk.
Address: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
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