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Best of Denver

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

3 daysLocal gems
Trip length
3-day5-day7-day10-day
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·Downtown Delights & Golden Hour Views

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  1. Sightseeing

    Union Station

    Start your day at this beautifully restored historic train station, now a hub for dining and shopping.

  2. Shopping

    16th Street Mall

    Stroll this mile-long pedestrian mall, great for people-watching and window shopping.

  3. Shopping

    Rockmount Ranch Wear

    Browse authentic Western snap-button shirts at the birthplace of this iconic style.

  4. Food

    Avanti F&B, a modern food hall

    Enjoy diverse food options and stunning rooftop views of the city skyline and mountains.

  5. Sightseeing

    Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

    Catch a sunset here for breathtaking views of Denver framed by the iconic red rock formations.

Day 2·Mile-High Culture & Craft Brews

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  1. Sightseeing

    Denver Art Museum

    Immerse yourself in a diverse collection, particularly strong in Western and Indigenous art.

  2. Sightseeing

    Clyfford Still Museum

    Explore the abstract expressionist's powerful works in a striking architectural setting.

  3. Food

    Great Divide Brewing Co.

    Sample some of Denver's renowned craft beers at one of its oldest and most respected breweries.

  4. Sightseeing

    RiNo Art District

    Wander through colorful murals, art galleries, and industrial-chic breweries in this vibrant neighborhood.

  5. Food

    Stem Ciders

    Taste innovative hard ciders in a lively RiNo taproom, often with food trucks nearby.

Day 3·Foothills & Farewell Flavors

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  1. Activity

    Mount Falcon Park

    Hike scenic trails with panoramic views of the Rockies and the Denver skyline.

  2. Activity

    Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey Distillery

    Take a tour and enjoy a tasting at this pioneering Colorado whiskey distillery.

  3. Shopping

    Tattered Cover Book Store (Colfax Avenue)

    Browse the extensive collection at this beloved independent bookstore, a local institution.

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.

Or plan your own Denver trip