Big Blue Bear, Denver Travel Guide

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Denver's iconic 40-foot-tall blue bear sculpture, 'I See What You Mean,' playfully peeks into the Colorado Convention Center, a must-see landmark.

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Big Blue Bear

The Big Blue Bear, officially titled 'I See What You Mean,' is a 40-foot-tall sculpture by Lawrence Argent, peering playfully into the Colorado Convention Center. A beloved Denver landmark since 2005, it embodies the city's vibrant arts scene and invites curiosity.

A brief summary to Big Blue Bear

750-776 14th St, Denver, Central Business District, Colorado, 80202, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The Big Blue Bear is accessible 24/7 and free to visit.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Denver Zoo

Molly Brown House Museum

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Art Museum

Denver Botanic Gardens

Explore Big Blue Bear on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Big Blue Bear, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Big Blue Bear is located on 14th Street between Stout and California Streets, directly outside the Colorado Convention Center. From the 16th Street Mall, walk south on any cross street to 14th Street. The bear will be visible peering into the Convention Center's glass facade.
Public Transport

The RTD (Regional Transportation District) provides convenient access to the Big Blue Bear. Take any D, F, or H line light rail to the Theatre District/Convention Center Station, which is located right next to the Colorado Convention Center. From Denver Union Station, you can take the line 0 bus to 15th St & Welton St. The Big Blue Bear is a short walk from the bus stop. A 3-hour pass costs $2.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a direct route to the Colorado Convention Center. From Denver Union Station, a taxi ride to the Big Blue Bear typically takes only a few minutes. The estimated fare is $6 - $8. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on traffic and demand.
Parking

The Colorado Convention Center provides an on-site covered parking garage with 772 spaces, but capacity is currently reduced due to expansion. The garage is open 24/7. Rates vary, but expect to pay around $26 for up to 24 hours. Several other parking lots and garages are available near the Convention Center.

Discover more about Big Blue Bear

The Big Blue Bear, also known as "I See What You Mean," is a colossal 40-foot-tall sculpture that has become one of Denver's most recognizable landmarks. Created by the late artist Lawrence Argent and erected in 2005, the sculpture depicts a giant blue bear peering inquisitively into the Colorado Convention Center. Located on 14th Street between California and Stout Streets, the Big Blue Bear is hard to miss. Its playful and curious posture sparks wonder and invites interaction, making it a favorite photo spot for tourists and locals alike. The sculpture has about 4,000 triangles on the surface.Argent drew inspiration from an image of a bear peering into a Colorado home, aiming to capture the curiosity and wonder of encountering wildlife in everyday life. While the original concept involved earth tones to mirror Colorado's natural landscape, a printing error revealed the striking impact of the bear in blue, a color that also represents the Colorado sky. The sculpture was constructed in California in six major sections and then transported to Denver.The Big Blue Bear is more than just a sculpture; it's a symbol of Denver's commitment to public art and its dynamic, forward-thinking spirit. It has captured the hearts of residents and visitors, solidifying its place as a must-see attraction in the Mile High City.