14 Days of Adventure and Culture in Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado, often referred to as the "Mile High City," is a vibrant metropolis that offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving arts scene, and a burgeoning culinary landscape. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it's a perfect destination for those who love the great outdoors and cultural exploration.
The city's history is rich and varied, from its origins as a mining town during the Gold Rush to its current status as a hub for innovation and creativity. Denver's neighborhoods each have their own distinct character, from the historic charm of LoDo (Lower Downtown) to the trendy vibes of RiNo (River North Art District). Visitors can explore world-class museums, catch a game at Coors Field, or enjoy a concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Denver's culinary scene is equally impressive, with a focus on farm-to-table dining and craft breweries. The city is home to a diverse array of restaurants, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Denver has something to offer everyone.
Before diving into the itinerary, consider booking your flights to Denver through Trip.com for the best deals.
Denver at a Glance
- Best Things to Do: Explore the Denver Art Museum, visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, and take a stroll through the historic Larimer Square.
- Best Sights to See: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Union Station, and the Colorado State Capitol.
- Best Places to Eat or Drink: Try the local brews at Wynkoop Brewing Company, enjoy a meal at Mercantile Dining & Provision, and savor the flavors at Root Down.
- Fun Fact: Denver brews more beer than any other city in the U.S., with over 200 different beers brewed daily.
For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.
Day 1: Arrival in Denver
Afternoon: Arrive in Denver and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around your neighborhood to get a feel for the city.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Root Down, a converted gas station offering globally influenced seasonal cuisine. Try their famous lamb sliders or the vegan-friendly roasted beet salad.
Day 2: Exploring Downtown Denver
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of Native American art and contemporary works.
Afternoon: Head to Union Station for lunch at Mercantile Dining & Provision, known for its farm-to-table dishes. Afterward, explore the shops and historic architecture of Larimer Square.
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of LoDo with a visit to Wynkoop Brewing Company, Denver's first craft brewery.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Embark on a Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods for breathtaking views and stunning rock formations.

Afternoon: Return to Denver and relax at the Denver Botanic Gardens, a 23-acre oasis in the city.
Evening: Dine at Acorn, located in The Source, a former foundry turned artisan market. Enjoy their wood-fired dishes and creative cocktails.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion
Morning: Visit the Molly Brown House Museum to learn about the "Unsinkable" Molly Brown, a Titanic survivor and Denver socialite.
Afternoon: Explore the RiNo Art District, known for its street art and galleries. Stop by The Source for lunch and browse the local shops.
Evening: Attend a performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, one of the largest performing arts centers in the U.S.
Day 5: Day Trip to Boulder
Morning: Take a short drive to Boulder, a charming city at the base of the Flatirons. Start your day with a hike at Chautauqua Park.
Afternoon: Explore the shops and cafes on Pearl Street Mall. Enjoy lunch at The Kitchen, a community bistro known for its sustainable practices.
Evening: Return to Denver and unwind with a craft cocktail at Williams & Graham, a speakeasy-style bar in the Highlands neighborhood.
Day 6: Rocky Mountain National Park
Morning: Set out on a Discover Rocky Mountain National Park tour for a day of hiking and wildlife spotting.

Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning mountain scenery.
Evening: Return to Denver and have dinner at El Five, offering Mediterranean tapas and panoramic views of the city.
Day 7: Red Rocks & Beyond
Morning: Join a Red Rocks & Beyond tour to explore the famous amphitheater and surrounding areas.

Afternoon: Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for a glimpse into the life of the legendary showman.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at Avanti Food & Beverage, a collective eatery with a variety of food stalls and rooftop views.
Day 8: Food and History
Morning: Embark on a Downtown Denver Food Tour to sample local delicacies and learn about the city's culinary history.

Afternoon: Visit the History Colorado Center for interactive exhibits on the state's past.
Evening: Dine at Fruition Restaurant, known for its innovative farm-to-table dishes.
Day 9: Art and Innovation
Morning: Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, featuring exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and more.
Afternoon: Visit Meow Wolf's Convergence Station, an immersive art experience that defies description.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at ChoLon Modern Asian Bistro, where you can savor creative takes on traditional Asian dishes.
Day 10: Day Trip to Colorado Springs
Morning: Travel to Colorado Springs to visit the stunning Garden of the Gods and take in the views of Pikes Peak.
Afternoon: Explore the charming town of Manitou Springs and enjoy lunch at a local cafe.
Evening: Return to Denver and relax with a drink at Death & Co, a stylish cocktail bar in the Ramble Hotel.
Day 11: Shopping and Relaxation
Morning: Spend the morning shopping at Cherry Creek Shopping Center, home to a variety of high-end stores and boutiques.
Afternoon: Unwind with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens or enjoy a spa treatment at one of the city's luxury spas.
Evening: Have dinner at Guard and Grace, a modern steakhouse known for its prime cuts and elegant atmosphere.
Day 12: Adventure and Exploration
Morning: Experience the thrill of a Rocky Mountain 4-Zipline Adventure for an adrenaline-pumping morning.

Afternoon: Visit the Denver Zoo to see a wide variety of animals from around the world.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at City O' City, a vegetarian restaurant with creative dishes and a laid-back vibe.
Day 13: Final Day in Denver
Morning: Take a leisurely stroll through Washington Park, a beautiful urban park with walking trails and gardens.
Afternoon: Visit the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art for a dose of modern art and culture.
Evening: Celebrate your last night in Denver with dinner at Beast + Bottle, a farm-to-fork restaurant known for its seasonal dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Day 14: Departure
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, famous for its creative pancakes and breakfast cocktails.
Afternoon: Depart Denver with memories of an unforgettable trip filled with adventure, culture, and culinary delights.
Denver offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you're exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods, hiking in the Rockies, or savoring local cuisine, this 14-day itinerary ensures you'll experience the best of what Denver has to offer. Safe travels!