How To Spend A Day In Denver
Fondly referred to as the “Mile-High City”, Denver has just about everything to offer catering to all factions of the population. From scenic drives along Mount Evans to museums, galleries, restaurants, from catering to adventure sports fanatics to having a killer music scene, Denver is a true cultural capital that screams Metropolis with a Wild Western charm. If you have a day to spare in this city, make sure you check off some of the following from your to-do list.
Larimer Square
Many locals recommend starting your Denver experience at this historic neighborhood that is always abuzz with activity and life. You will surely bump into something new and interesting as it hosts plenty of festivals and street performances all year-round.
Coors Brewery
This is a must-see destination for those interested in testing out the “As cold as the Rockies” phrase used to advertise Coors beer. You can take a self-guided tour through the brewery and learn the intricacies of how the beer is malted, brewed, bottled and packaged. The added bonus is the three free beer taster samples during the tour.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
As they say, it’s not the destination but the journey that matters the most. This saying holds true for a drive-up Mount Evans. Providing an absolutely picturesque view of the Rocky Mountains, this 15- mile drive on the “Road into the Sky” is something that you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
Apart from offering fabulous views of the Rockies and several miles of trails for the hiker, this park is a treat to the eyes of the geologist. You’d be lucky if your visit coincides with a show at the naturally acoustic amphitheater. Nevertheless, the theater geologically formed by rocks is a perfect photo stop.
Denver Botanic Gardens
This is one of the first botanical gardens in the States that focuses primarily on native plants. It has seven unique gardens and the largest collection of plants from arid regions all over the world. It also has several visiting exhibits and a concert ready sunken amphitheater. This historical garden is a must-see for those who honestly believe that the earth laughs in plants and flowers.
Denver Art Museum
This museum houses over 68,000 works of art ranging from contemporary designs to Columbian artifacts. Showcasing the works of famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, and Georgia O’Keefe. It also houses an immense collection of Western American Art like “The Cheyenne” and the “Herd of Buffalo”.
16th Street Mall
Located in downtown Denver, this is a mile-long pedestrian friendly mall that is a promenade with shops, restaurants and movie theaters. The outdoor cafes offer the best people watching opportunities besides grabbing a bite.
Denver Street Art
If thought-provoking wall murals and street art are what tickle your fancy, you are sure to stumble across several surprises along the way. Denver’s neighborhoods from building exteriors, garage doors and alleyways are all bustling with graffiti and art.
RINO, East Coflax and Confluence Park
These parks are some of the places around the city where you will encounter expressive and visual masterpieces.So, there you have it! Denver has something for everyone. We hope this will help you plan an itinerary for your one day trip or layover. Breathe in all that Denver has to offer and we promise that you won’t be disappointed.