Denver, Colorado Travel Guide

Discover Denver: Where Outdoor Adventure Meets Urban Culture in the Heart of Colorado.

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop and vibrant city life. The city sits exactly one mile above sea level, which gives it its nickname, the Mile-High City. Denver is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban charm, making it a delightful destination for all types of travelers. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in and around Denver. The city boasts over 200 parks and 85 miles of paved trails, perfect for biking, hiking, and jogging. Just a short drive away, the Rocky Mountain National Park offers breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. For those interested in culture and history, Denver has a rich array of museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. The Denver Art Museum houses an extensive collection of Native American art, while the History Colorado Center offers interactive exhibits that bring the state's past to life. The city's historic Union Station, now a hub of activity, features shops, restaurants, and a boutique hotel. Foodies will appreciate Denver's burgeoning culinary scene, which includes everything from gourmet farm-to-table restaurants to casual food trucks. Don't miss the chance to try some local craft beers; Denver is home to a thriving brewery scene with over 150 breweries in the metro area. Shopping enthusiasts can stroll through the 16th Street Mall, an open-air pedestrian promenade lined with shops, cafes, and entertainment options. For a more unique shopping experience, visit the neighborhoods of LoDo (Lower Downtown) and RiNo (River North Art District), known for their boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant street art.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Denver.

Stay hydrated. Denver's high altitude can cause dehydration more quickly than at sea level.
Use sunscreen. The sun is stronger at higher altitudes, so protect your skin even on cloudy days.
Take it easy on arrival. Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude, especially if you plan on engaging in physical activities.
Explore the neighborhoods. Each area of Denver offers a unique vibe and attractions worth exploring.
Check the weather. Denver's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to be prepared for sudden changes.

Neighbourhoods in Denver

Downtown Denver

LoDo (Lower Downtown)

Capitol Hill

RiNo (River North Art District)

Cherry Creek

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Denver

Explore Denver: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Empower Field at Mile High

Explore Empower Field at Mile High, the premier stadium in Denver, where thrilling football games and breathtaking mountain views come together.

4.6

Lair o’ the Bear Park

Explore Lair o' the Bear Park, a stunning natural sanctuary in Colorado, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beauty of nature.

4.8

Colorado Railroad Museum

Discover the rich history of railroads at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, where trains come to life through interactive exhibits and scenic rides.

4.6

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Discover the rich history of the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where adventure and culture meet in stunning Colorado.

4.7

Best landmarks in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Downtown Aquarium

Explore a world of aquatic wonders at the Downtown Aquarium in Denver, where adventure meets education in a stunning marine environment.

4.3

Denver Botanic Gardens

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Denver Botanic Gardens, a stunning oasis of flora, art, and tranquility in the heart of the Mile High City.

4.8

Larimer Square

Explore Larimer Square - Denver's Historic Landmark for Shopping, Dining, and Cultural Experiences in a Vibrant Atmosphere.

4.6

Civic Center Park

Discover the beauty and culture of Civic Center Park, Denver's urban oasis, where history and nature blend seamlessly for a memorable experience.

4.4

Best restaurants in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Atomic Cowboy home of Denver Biscuit Co & Fat Sully's NY Pizza

Experience a culinary gem in Denver with Atomic Cowboy's unique blend of breakfast delights and authentic NY pizza.

4.6

Steuben's Uptown

Discover Steuben's Uptown in Denver: Where classic American comfort food meets vibrant dining experiences.

4.4

Linger

Discover Linger: A unique dining destination blending global street food flavors with stunning views in Denver's Highland neighborhood.

4.5

Buckhorn Exchange

Experience Denver's historic steakhouse offering exquisite game meats and steaks in a rustic setting filled with Western charm.

4.4

Best bars in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Williams & Graham

Discover Williams & Graham, a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar in Denver that offers exquisite drinks and a cozy atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

4.6

Forest Room 5

Discover the enchanting Forest Room 5 in Denver, where art meets mixology in a unique lounge atmosphere perfect for socializing and relaxation.

4.2

Death & Co Denver

Discover exquisite cocktails and a vibrant lounge atmosphere at Death & Co Denver, a must-visit for cocktail aficionados and casual drinkers alike.

4.6

Adrift

Experience the vibrant tiki culture at Adrift, Denver's premier cocktail bar offering exotic drinks and a tropical escape.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

The Black Box

Discover Denver's vibrant nightlife at The Black Box, a premier live music venue and night club featuring electrifying performances and creative cocktails.

4.6

Blue Ice

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Blue Ice, Denver's premier night club, where music, cocktails, and fun collide for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

The Church Nightclub

Discover the unique fusion of historic charm and electrifying nightlife at The Church Nightclub in Denver.

3.6

Milk Bar

Dive into Denver's nightlife at Milk Bar, a vibrant club offering great drinks, music, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.

4.1

Best shops in Denver

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Pearl Street Mall

Discover the lively Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, a pedestrian paradise filled with shops, dining, and local entertainment against the stunning Flatirons backdrop.

4.6

Larimer Square

Explore the historic Larimer Square in Denver, a vibrant shopping and dining destination showcasing the city's rich culture and charming architecture.

4.5

Denver Pavilions

Explore the vibrant shopping and entertainment scene at Denver Pavilions, a must-visit destination in the heart of Denver.

4.4

16th Street Mall

Discover the heart of Denver at the 16th Street Mall, a bustling shopping hub filled with shops, restaurants, and vibrant culture.

4.2

Explore Denver on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Denver, mapped for you.

Denver Essentials

Denver is accessible via Denver International Airport (DEN), which is one of the largest airports in the United States. The airport is well-connected with major cities in the U.S. and international destinations. From the airport, you can take the A Line commuter rail to Union Station in downtown Denver. Alternatively, taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses are available for transportation to the city.
Denver has an extensive public transportation system managed by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), including buses, light rail, and commuter rail. The light rail system is particularly useful for getting around downtown and the surrounding areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also popular. For a more eco-friendly option, Denver B-cycle, a bike-sharing program, is available throughout the city. Renting a car is another convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas like the Rocky Mountains.
The official currency in Denver is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and most establishments accept digital payments such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
Denver is generally a safe city, but it's important to exercise standard precautions. Areas like Five Points and Colfax Avenue have higher crime rates, so it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Downtown and tourist areas are usually safe, but it's always good to be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Denver Health Medical Center is the main hospital in the city and provides emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies, including craft beers and Rocky Mountain oysters. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Denver like a local, visit the neighborhoods of RiNo (River North Art District) and LoDo (Lower Downtown) for art galleries, breweries, and unique dining experiences. Attend a live music event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. For outdoor enthusiasts, take advantage of the numerous hiking and biking trails around the city and nearby mountains. Lastly, don't miss the Denver Union Station, which has been transformed into a vibrant hub with shops, restaurants, and bars.

When is the best time to visit Denver?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Denver

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Denver. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [h-ow-d-ee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [s-ee y-ah]
- YesYup
  [y-uh-p]
- NoNah
  [n-ah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pl-ee-z/n-oh w-ur-ee-z]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-ang-ks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [p-ah-r-d-uhn m-ee/m-ahy b-ad]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [h-ow-z ih-t g-oh-ing]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [g-oo-d. y-oo]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [y-oo sp-ee-k ih-ng-g-lish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [ai d-oh-nt g-eh-t ih-t]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [k-ah-n ai ch-eh-k aw-t dh-uh m-eh-n-y-oo]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [n-oh m-ee-t f-er m-ee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [ch-ee-r-z]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now
  [ai-l pe-iy n-ow]
- Help!Help!
  [h-eh-l-p]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [g-eh-t l-aw-s-t]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [k-ah-l dh-uh k-aa-p-s]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [g-eh-t ah d-aa-k]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ai-m l-oh-s-t]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ai-m s-ih-k]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ai w-aa-n-ah b-ah-iy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [j-ah-st b-r-ow-z-ih-ng]
- How much is it?How much?
  [h-ow m-ah-ch]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [t-oo pr-ai-s-iy]
- Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [k-ah-n y-oo dr-aa-p dh-uh pr-ay-s]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wh-ah-t-s dh-uh t-ay-m]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ih-ts w-ah-n]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [h-ah-f t-eh-n]
- MorningMorning
  [m-oh-r-n-ih-ng]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [aa-f-t-er-n-uw-n]
- EveningEvening
  [iy-v-n-ih-ng]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [y-eh-s-t-er-d-ay]
- TodayToday
  [t-uh-d-ay]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [t-ah-m-aw-r-oh]
- 1One
  [w-ah-n]
- 2Two
  [t-uw]
- 3Three
  [th-r-iy]
- 4Four
  [f-oh-r]
- 5Five
  [f-ay-v]
- 6Six
  [s-ih-k-s]
- 7Seven
  [s-eh-v-eh-n]
- 8Eight
  [ey-t]
- 9Nine
  [n-ay-n]
- 10Ten
  [t-eh-n]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wh-eh-r-s dh-uh]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wh-ah-t-s dh-uh a-d-r-eh-s]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?
  [k-ah-n y-oo sh-ow m-ee aw-n dh-uh m-ae-p]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wh-eh-n-s dh-uh n-eh-k-s-t b-ah-s]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ey t-ih-k-ih-t (t-uw ....)]

History of Denver

Denver was founded in November 1858 as a mining town during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. Originally named Denver City, it was established by a group of prospectors from Kansas Territory. The name 'Denver' was chosen to honor Kansas Territorial Governor James W. Denver, in the hope of gaining political favor.
In 1861, the Colorado Territory was established, and Denver City became the territorial capital. This period saw rapid growth as miners and settlers flocked to the area, and Denver developed into a supply hub for the surrounding mining camps.
On April 19, 1863, a significant fire broke out in Denver, destroying much of the city's business district. Despite the devastation, the community quickly rebuilt, this time using brick and stone, which led to more permanent structures and helped shape the modern cityscape.
The arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1870 marked a pivotal moment in Denver's history. The Denver Pacific Railway connected Denver to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and the Kansas Pacific Railroad, further integrating the city into the national economy and spurring rapid growth and development.
The discovery of silver in Leadville in the late 1870s brought wealth and prosperity to Denver. Known as the Silver Boom, this era led to significant economic growth, new architectural developments, and an influx of immigrants and settlers seeking fortune.
The economic downturn known as the Denver Depression of 1893 was triggered by the collapse of the silver market after the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act. This event led to widespread economic hardship, but it also marked a turning point as Denver diversified its economy beyond mining.
During the 1920s, Denver experienced the highs of the Roaring Twenties, characterized by economic prosperity and cultural dynamism. However, the era of Prohibition also brought challenges, including the rise of bootlegging and organized crime in the city.
In the mid-20th century, Denver underwent significant urban renewal efforts, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. These efforts aimed to modernize the city by replacing old and deteriorating buildings with new infrastructure, though they also led to the loss of some historic neighborhoods.
Today, Denver is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and a thriving music and food scene. The city celebrates its diverse heritage with events like the annual Cinco de Mayo festival and the Denver PrideFest.
The legalization of recreational cannabis in Colorado in 2012 has had a significant impact on Denver's economy and culture. The city has become a center for cannabis tourism and industry innovation, contributing to its reputation as a progressive and forward-thinking urban center.