Denver Itinerary Day 2
Wake up, its day two in Denver! Hopefully, youre well-rested for another jam-packed day of exciting Denver happenings.
Boozy Brunch
If theres anything that consistently brings Denverites out in drovesthat thing is brunch. Are we late sleepers, or early drinkers?
Cant say for certain, but brunch is so popular in Denver that you can easily wait upwards of an hour just to get seated during peak times.
But lucky for you, I have been doing years of independent field research on brunch in Denver. And I have narrowed it down to simply thebest brunch spots Denver has to offer .
Explore the RiNo Art District
Once an industrial up and coming neighborhood, River North has now officially arrived. Its downtown adjacent but offers more of that hipster / industrial-chic vibe.
This neighborhood is full of arts, culture, craft breweries, amazing restaurants, and more.
So what exactly should you do with your time here? Take a stroll and admire the beautifully colored street art pieces.
Or you can pop in and out of the many art galleries. But be sure and time lunch to coincide with checking out Denvers new food hall and gourmet market scene. In RiNo, you have your choice between Denver Central Market or The Source.
And if you didnt get enough beer yesterday, or mimosas this morning, there are plenty of amazing watering holes in RiNo as well. You can visit craft breweries like Great Divide or Epic Brewing. Or you can check out Denvers urban winery, Infinite Monkey Theorem.
Th Annual Denver Tattoo Arts Convention
When: July 8 10
Where: Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St., Denver
Cost: $25 $43 at entry
The Lowdown: The 5th Annual Denver Tattoo Arts Convention is back in the city. You can celebrate the wild world of tattooing by exploring artists from around the world, meeting experts and maybe even getting your own tattoo.
Lunch At 16th Street Mall
16th Street Mall is a mile-long pedestrian promenade packed with eateries, cafes and shops. Choose from one of 42 open-air cafes for lunch and check out the shops. Use the free shuttle bus that runs the length of the street and stops at all the intersections which will help make the most of your time.
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Denver Museum Of Nature And Science
Also accessible from City Park is the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
The museum gained notoriety in the 1920s after the discovery of the Folsom points in Folsom, New Mexico.
This discovery proved that humans lived in North America 10,000 years ago, much earlier than previously thought.
Since then, the museum has continued to be at the forefront of archeological discovery, and now has many exhibits and an IMAX theater.
How Much Time In Denver
I would say 2-3 nights would be sufficient, especially if you only plan to explore the city of Denver and the surrounding metro, such as Boulder or Golden. Depending on the season, this gives you plenty of time to enjoy both what the city and the outdoors has to offer you. If you do want to spend some time in the outdoors , then I would extend your trip by a night or two to fully experience the beautiful mountains and National Parks nearby.
You can check out these itineraries to get more ideas when visiting Denver:
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Dinner Society With Andrea Murdoch From Four Directions Cuisine
When: July 9, 6 p.m.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St., Denver
Cost: $175, get tickets here
The Lowdown: Museum of Contemporary Art Denver hosts a Dinner Society with Andrea Murdoch of Four Directions Cuisine. You can delight in bites created by Chef Andrea Murcdoch while imbibing in beverages from Atst and Dos Luces Brewery.
American Museum Of Western Art
If you love history but dont want to deal with overcrowded museums, the American Museum of Western Art is one of the best places to visit so much so that you should drop in if youre near Denver.
The building itself began its life in 1880, where it was used as a school for women known as the Brinker Collegiate Institute.
After that closed down, it was, surprisingly, turned into a brothel, which could be entered via a secret tunnel underground.
Eventually, William Foxley purchased the building, and he used a huge amount of money to turn it into the museum we know now.
The museums primary goal is promoting Western life, spanning from the early 1800s all the way to modern living.
A wide range of different collections provides insights into more than just Colorado, especially through the Anschutz Collection.
Tours are also available, through which you can get in-depth examinations of over 200 pieces.
Address: 1727 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Exploring other parts of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Breckenridge & some of the things to do in Boulder?
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More Than 2 Days In Denver
When it comes down to it, two days in Denver is simply just NOT enough time to really dig into the local scene. So, if you find yourself with more than two daysfantastic! Here are a few additional items to beef up your Denver itinerary:
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
Of all the attractions in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is certainly up there in terms of popularity. I havent personally crunched the numbers but with four million annual visitors a yearI think its safe to say its pretty darn popular.
The park consists of over 400 square miles of mountain environments, world-class hiking, camping, climbing, and more. Its clear to see why its so popular!
If youre a person who loves the outdoors, your Denver itinerary will love the addition of a day trip to RMNP. It really is one of the best Denver day trips and an essential place to visit when there!
While not too far from Denver, this is one where you will need a car to visit. The drive takes about 90 minutes, and the fee to enter the park is $25 per vehicle, per day.
Hit the Slopes
With the Rocky Mountain range in our backyard, it should come as no shock that Colorado has some really killer options for outdoor winter recreation.
And while you have to get out of Denver proper in order to enjoy the mountains , its 100% worth it.
However, if the slopes are calling your name, here are some of the best options near Denver:
Catch a Concert at Red Rocks
Envision: You Garden Party
When: July 23, 4 7 p.m.
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St., Denver
Cost: $75 $500, get tickets here
The Lowdown: Support the local LGBTQ+ community during an Envision:You Garden Party. You can join in on a fabulous summer soiree, watch live entertainment, and more throughout the afternoon in the gorgeous Denver Botanic Gardens.
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Best Free & Affordable Attractions In Denver Colorado
Denver is a cultural and economic center in the Rocky Mountains region, famed for its historic 19th-century buildings in neighborhoods such as Larimer Square and its prestigious Denver Art Museum, which offers select free admission days throughout the year. Urban and state parks abound, including the beautiful City Park and the sprawling nearby Cherry Creek State Park. Some attractions are free only on certain days please check before you go. Be sure to call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.
Discover The Street Art In Denver
The River North Art District started out as a clutch of galleries in reclaimed warehouses. Its now one of Denvers most vibrant neighbourhoods packed full of stunning street art, creative spaces and performance venues. Wineries and craft breweries are two a penny.
Epic street art in RiNo adorns the sides of buildings, walls and lock-ups. Its even on the roads. Just head out from Central Market and follow your feet down the streets and alleyways. You wont have to look far.
Check the alley at the back of Denver Central Market for cool street art
Look closely and youll see these are four different murals on four different walls
You could easily spend a whole day seeking out Denvers street art. Travel blogger Julianna from The Discoveries Of, was also on our trip and has written an excellent guide to Denvers murals with a self-guided walking map which is well worth checking out.
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Avanti Summer Movie Series
When: July 14, 9 11 p.m.
Where: Avanti F& B, a collective eatery, 3200 Pecos St., Denver
Cost: Free admission
The Lowdown: Grab a lawn chair or bring a blanket for the Avanti Summer Movie Series. You can imbibe in a free beer from New Belgium Brewing Company and delight in bites from Del Mar while relaxing to watch Black Panther on a 30-foot projector.
Cathedral Basilica Of The Immaculate Conception
Address: 1530 Logan St, Denver, CO 80203 | Website
The main cathedral for Colorado Catholics is worth a quick visit even if youre not an adherent for the beautiful soaring interior and stunning stained glass work. The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is located in the downtown area near The Brown Palace, and is open to visitors for short periods most evenings .
Address: 2669 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205 | Website
Denver Central Market is located right in the middle of the uber-hip RiNo art district. Inside a shared roof youll find 11 artisan vendors serving up everything from chocolates to pizza to ice cream.
In true River North spirit, the building and the alley behind it are adorned in head to toe street art. Its a great place to stop in for a break while touring the district by foot, or to start youre evening before hitting the areas lively nightlife.
Are You a Foodie? Then dont miss Denvers super popular small group foodie tour, which takes you sampling through the citys top culinary spots.
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Red Rocks Park And Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is centered around the famed outdoor Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which has showcased classical and popular music performances for more than a century and has hosted world-renowned acts such as the Beatles, U2, and the Grateful Dead. Visitors may explore the nearly 10,000-seat historic amphitheatre at their leisure, which has become a popular workout spot for joggers and athletes due to its high elevation and rock stair seating. Two pedestrian trails are offered at the surrounding Red Rocks Park, with sections available for use by mountain bikers and horseback riders. Other free public attractions at the park and amphitheatre include the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, which honors the state’s notable musicians, and the Red Rocks Visitor Center, which details the amphitheatre’s history through interactive exhibits.
18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465, Phone: 720-865-2494
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Things To Do In Denver
If youre looking for the best list of things to do in Denver, you just hit the jackpot. Bookmark this post, and youll never wonder what to do in Denver again.
Heres the deal: Im a Denver local who travels the world full time and writes online travel guides. Its a dream job. And I take as much pride in my work as I do in being from Denver.
This post is my magnum opus . Its the product of months of work, and a lifetime of local knowledge. Its also never finished. I update it regularly .
I hope I can help you enjoy and love the Mile High City as much as I do. So lets dive in:
Prefer watching a video to reading a post? Click to play a 5-minute video by Abigail rounding up her 14 favorite things from this list :
PS We literally JUST made this Denver video this week. Were pretty new to Youtube. Could you help us out by watching the whole video and giving it a like for the algorithm?
Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. Thank you!
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National Avocado Toast Day
When: July 21 31
Where: All Snooze, an A.M. Eatery locations
Cost: Free admission
The Lowdown: Dive into a savory breakfast or brunch during National Avocado Toast Day at Snooze. You can delight in Snoozes Bravocado Toast which offers smashed avocado, house-made red onion honey jam and sunny-side up eggs.
The Room Of Lost Things
The Room Of Lost Things
With such a unique name, you would hope that The Room Of Lost Things would live up to the expectations it has set for itself.
And thankfully, it does.
Located in the Sante Fe Arts Districts, this shop is themed on the macabre and the strange.
If oddities are your thing, then you need to put visiting this shop on your list of things to do in Denver today.
Check out the mummified Prairie dogs lining the shelves, or buy a fossil to bring home as a souvenir.
If youre struggling to identify what it is thats caught your attention, the employees and artists within are more than happy to help you out.
Address: 987 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, United States
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Beer And Charcuterie Pairing
When: June 29, 5 9 p.m.
Where: All Denver Beer Co. Locations
Cost: $40, get tickets here
The Lowdown: Denver Beer Co. partners with Cheese Meat Board for a Beer and Charcuterie Pairing. You can delight in an array of delectable meats, cheese and accouterments with a flight of five four-ounce brews for a tasty afternoon.
Where To Stay In Denver The Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
The Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
Downtown is the perfect place to base yourself for discovering Denver. We stayed at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. Its a great location for visiting the museums, RiNo, Larimer Square and, of course, downtown. Some of the best things to do in Denver are just a short stroll away.
The Sheraton is a modern hotel and one of Denvers largest. Theres a cool bar, a choice of restaurants, cafes and a heated rooftop pool with fabulous views.
Check rates and availability at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
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Go On The Denver Foothills Tour To See Red Rocks Amphitheatre
One of the best things to do near Denver Colorado is going on the Denver Foothills Tour, of which a visit to the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a highlight. Also enjoyed on this trip is a breathtaking view from Lookout Mountain, which is also where the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is located. Next will be a stop at peaceful Evergreen Lake.
Regardless, the time spent at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, arguably the most beautiful amphitheatre in the world, is what many remember most from this journey. Those who fill its 9,525 seats get to enjoy live music and other live performances while being able to also gaze up at the large rock formation that stretches from behind the stage to high above the seating area to the left of the spectators.
Denver Museum Of Nature & Science
A visit to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is another of the top things to do in Denver for people who enjoy educating themselves as it is a great resource for those who want to learn more about the natural history of the Centennial State, the world and the universe. One of the best ways to do the latter is to take a visit to its 125-seat Gates Planetarium. Also in the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a 440-seat Phipps IMAX Theater.
Its exhibits include dinosaur bones dating hundreds of millions of years and Egyptian mummies that are thousands of years old. It also has a wildlife exhibit that provides information on animals that are based throughout the world. Overall, it touches upon anthropology, geology, health sciences, space sciences, paleontology and zoology.
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Denver Performing Arts Complex
Address: 1400 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80204 | Website
The Denver Performing Arts Complex is a large downtown campus hosting several different performance venues, the most prominent of which are the excellent Buelle Theatre and the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.
During non-pandemic times, programming included touring plays, concerts, performances, and art exhibits. The Lion King and Hamilton are currently slated to return in early 2022. Check the official website for the latest information.
Empower Field At Mile High
Address: 1701 Bryant St, Denver, CO 80204 | Website
I still remember how sad my family was when the Denver Broncos moved in 2000 from their prior home in the storied Mile High Stadium to what is now named Empower Field. But today I appreciate the new venue, as not one of the 76,125 seats at Empower Field offers a bad view.
In addition to hosting the Broncos, Empower Field also frequently hosts concerts from A-list performers . Tours of the stadium are offered through the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame , with tickets costing $25 per person.
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