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Best of Denver

Craft beer, trailheads, and big skies an hour from downtown.

10 daysLocal favorites
Best time to visit: September to October, March to May

Spring and fall are mild with abundant sunshine and thinner crowds. Winter draws skiers to the nearby mountains, while summer afternoons bring quick thunderstorms.

Day 1 · Mile-High City Exploration

  • 1
    Colorado State Capitol Building

    Stand on the 13th step for exactly one mile above sea level.

  • 2
    Denver Art Museum

    Explore a vast collection of Western and Indigenous art.

  • 3
    16th Street Mall

    Stroll this pedestrian mall, grab a bite, and people-watch.

Day 2 · Eclectic Neighborhoods & Craft Brews

  • 1
    RiNo Art District

    Wander through vibrant murals, galleries, and street art.

  • 2
    Great Divide Brewing Co.

    Enjoy a classic Denver craft beer experience.

  • 3
    Larimer Square

    Historic block with Victorian buildings, boutiques, and diverse dining.

  • 4
    Union Station

    A beautifully restored transit hub with shops, restaurants, and bars.

Day 3 · Red Rocks & Golden Views

  • 1
    Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

    Iconic outdoor venue with stunning natural acoustics and geological formations.

  • 2
    Town of Golden

    Charming historic town at the foothills of the Rockies.

  • 3
    Coors Brewery Tour

    Take a tour of the world's largest single-site brewery (reservations recommended).

Day 4 · Mountain Trails & Scenic Drives

  • 1
    Mount Falcon Park

    Enjoy a moderate hike with panoramic views of Denver and the Rockies.

  • 2
    Lariat Loop Scenic Byway

    A historic and scenic drive through the foothills.

  • 3
    Evergreen Lake House

    Rent a paddleboard or kayak, or simply enjoy the serene mountain lake.

Day 5 · Botany & Books

  • 1
    Denver Botanic Gardens

    Explore diverse plant collections and stunning themed gardens.

  • 2
    Tattered Cover Book Store (Colfax Ave)

    A beloved independent bookstore with a cozy atmosphere and vast selection.

  • 3
    Capitol Hill

    Walk through this historic neighborhood with beautiful architecture and local cafes.

Day 6 · Gateway to the Rockies

  • 1
    Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

    Spot bison, deer, and many bird species just outside the city.

  • 2
    Olde Town Arvada

    Historic main street with local shops, restaurants, and breweries.

  • 3
    New Terrain Brewing Company

    Enjoy craft beers with mountain views and a lively outdoor space.

Day 7 · Cherry Creek Charm & Foodie Finds

  • 1
    Cherry Creek Shopping Center

    High-end shopping, but also great for people-watching and window shopping.

  • 2
    Cherry Creek North

    Explore art galleries, boutiques, and upscale dining options.

  • 3
    Avanti F&B, a collective eatery

    A modern food hall with diverse culinary options and great rooftop views.

Day 8 · Sports, Science & Speakeasies

  • 1
    Coors Field

    Catch a Colorado Rockies game (seasonal) or take a stadium tour.

  • 2
    Denver Museum of Nature & Science

    Engaging exhibits on natural history, space, and local ecosystems.

  • 3
    Williams & Graham

    Experience a acclaimed speakeasy for expertly crafted cocktails (reservations essential).

Day 9 · Golden Gate Canyon & Wild West History

  • 1
    Golden Gate Canyon State Park

    Scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife in a peaceful mountain setting.

  • 2
    Clear Creek Canyon Park

    Take a scenic drive or stop for a riverside stroll.

  • 3
    Idaho Springs

    Historic mining town with hot springs and rich Wild West heritage.

Day 10 · Relaxed Departure

  • 1
    The Source Hotel + Market Hall

    Grab a coffee, browse unique shops, or enjoy a final Denver meal.

  • 2
    Hammond's Candies Factory Tour

    A sweet, free tour to see how classic candies are made.

  • 3
    City Park

    Enjoy a leisurely walk, feed the ducks, or just relax in Denver's largest park.

Make it your own

Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.

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