Denver Travel Itinerary Guide

Travel guide: It’s all here in Denver — find out things to do, where to stay, when and where!`

Not Sure What To Do In Denver?

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Denver, CO / USA: 5/8/2020 – Denver International Airport security gates at summer
Denver International Airport security gates at summer

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a vibrant city nestled against the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Known as the Mile High City for its elevation of exactly one mile above sea level, Denver is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, visitors can enjoy the city’s parks, trails, and recreational activities like hiking, biking, skiing and whitewater rafting nearby. 

Keywords like outdoor activities, Rocky Mountains, and Mile High City relate to Denver’s identity and draw for adventure seekers. As an urban cultural hub, Denver offers museums, performing arts, professional sports, craft breweries, and a dynamic food scene. Visitors can explore the Denver Art Museum which has a collection of American Indian art, or see a Broadway touring production at the Denver Center for Performing Arts.

Denver Colorado, USA - Dancing Statute In Front of Denver Performing Art Complex, Denver, Colorado.
Denver Colorado, USA - The 16th Street Mall of Denver at early morning. The Mall is a pedestrian and transit mall in Denver, Colorado, USA.

Sports fans can catch a game at the home of the Broncos, Coors Field. Hip neighborhoods like River North Art District (RiNo) and LoDo feature local breweries and a farm-to-table restaurant boom. Phrases like museums, performing arts, food scene, craft breweries showcase Denver’s vibrant city atmosphere.

Enjoy a day trip from Denver to Red Rocks amphitheater or Red Rocks amphitheatre to Denver! With its combination of natural beauty and urban amenities, it’s easy to see why Denver is consistently ranked as one of America’s best places to live and visit. Keywords like best places to live, best resorts in Colorado for skiing, and best places to visit help summarize Denver’s broad appeal that makes it a popular travel destination.

Where to stay

where to stay in Denver?

Discover our top picks for Denver hotels, a collection of our favorite hotels in Denver that we’re excited to share with you. Each hotel in Denver has been handpicked for a unique reason – whether it’s lavish amenities or unbeatable locations.

Ready to plan your Denver vacation? Connect with our Denver travel agency and get in touch with a travel artist who’s brimming with expert Denver advice on making your journey truly memorable. Your dream vacation in Denver awaits – let our savvy luxury travel advisors in Denver be your guide to a memorable Denver vacation.

If you’re looking for something different, use our exclusive partnership with booking.com to book hotels in Denver on your own, or get in touch with us to handle all of your hotel bookings in Denver for you! We are a full-service travel agency here to ensure your Denver vacation is memorable!

Hotel accomodation

Looking For Top Budget Friendly Hotels in Denver?

Here are top 3 budget hotels as per Budget Traveler’s Choice.

Avid Hotels - Denver Airport Area, an IHG Hotel
Providing basic accommodations near Denver International Airport, this affordable IHG hotel features fast free Wi-Fi, 24/7 fitness center, and is pet friendly for airport travelers. Located close to Anschutz Medical Campus and the Denver Tech Center, downtown attractions like Coors Field and Union Station are a quick drive away.
Home2 Suites By Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center
Offering all-suite accommodations with fully equipped kitchens in downtown Denver, this extended stay hotel features free breakfast and is a quick walk to the Convention Center. Located in the heart of downtown near attractions like the 16th Street Mall, Union Station, and Larimer Square, guests enjoy great access to Denver’s top sights.
Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station
Connected to historic Union Station in downtown Denver, this hotel features modern rooms, free WiFi, a fitness center, and on-site restaurant near public transportation. Steps from Coors Field and LoDo nightlife, the location provides easy access to major downtown Denver attractions and shopping.

Looking For Top Luxury Hotels in Denver?

Here are top 3 budget hotels as per Luxury Traveler’s Choice.

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver
Situated in the celebrated 1909 Beaux-Arts landmark building that was one of the city’s first skyscrapers, this 5-star hotel offers elegant accommodations with sweeping mountain views, a luxurious spa, fitness center, and the acclaimed Elway’s Downtown steakhouse. Steps from the Denver Performing Arts Complex, the Victorian architecture of Larimer Square, bustling Union Station, and the 16th Street pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall, the prime downtown location places guests near major Denver attractions like the Colorado State Capitol and the United States Mint.
Halcyon - A Hotel in Cherry Creek
Housed in a historic 1915 building in the exclusive Cherry Creek North shopping district, this contemporary upscale Denver hotel features chic modern rooms with luxury amenities like rainfall showers and Nespresso machines alongside a hip rooftop lounge with views of the Rocky Mountains. Guests are surrounded by premier shopping at Cherry Creek Mall, art galleries, chef-driven restaurants, and lively nightlife while staying at this boutique hotel just outside downtown near the Country Club neighborhood.
Four Seasons Hotel Denver
Rising 22 stories offering panoramic vistas in downtown’s Colorado State Capitol district, this AAA five diamond hotel offers Rocky Mountain-inspired luxury with an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and the highly acclaimed EDGE Restaurant and Bar. Located blocks from the landmark Denver City and County Building, the Denver Performing Arts Complex, History Colorado Center, and the shopping on the 16th Street Mall, guests enjoy convenience in an upscale sophisticated setting minutes from Coors Field and Pepsi Center.
Where to eat?

where to eat in Denver?

Uncover the best restaurants in Denver. We have researched three of the best places to eat in Denver. These made our list for a number of reasons: they could have delicious food in Denver, be awesome Instagrammable restaurants in Denver, or be a high-end restaurant in Denver that can’t be missed!

Obviously, the culinary scene in Denver is second-to-none, and we can’t include all restaurants in this list so if you want other restaurant recommendations in Denver, contact one of our luxury travel artists (luxury travel advisors for Denver) to help plan your full vacation itinerary in Denver. We are a travel agency dedicated to providing memorable experiences in Denver.

Where to eat

Top three Restaurants in Denver: Journey Connected Expert’s Choice

El Five Restaurant
Perched on the fifth floor overlooking downtown, this modern Mexican restaurant offers incredible views through floor-to-ceiling windows paired with creative south of the border dishes and cocktails. The sleek, contemporary interior provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying housemade moles, ceviches, and tapas alongside unique margaritas and mezcals.
Located downtown in the historic Oxford Hotel, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu focused on quality ingredients and technique for a refined rustic cuisine. The dining room features warm rock walls, leather booths, and a bustling open kitchen where dishes are prepared on a wood-burning grill and rotisserie.
urbanfarmersteakhouse
riojadenver
Housed in a converted 19th century building in Larimer Square, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers an extensive tapas menu and Spanish wines in a lively and energetic setting. Diners can sample traditional dishes like paella and pisto alongside inventive plates blending Spanish flavors with local ingredients.
What to see?

what to see in Denver?

Discover our top picks for city attractions and activities, a curated selection of our favorite experiences in city that we’re excited to share with you. Each one has been carefully chosen for its unique charm and cultural significance.

Ready to plan your city adventureConnect with our experienced travel experts who are brimming with insider knowledge on making your journey truly unforgettable. Your dream vacation in city awaits – let our savvy city travel advisors be your guide to a memorable city holiday. As a trusted city Travel Agency, we’re here for you!

If you’re seeking something different, take advantage of our exclusive partnerships to book attractions and activities in city independently, or simply get in touch with us, and we’ll handle all of your city itinerary planning for you! These are the top five things to do in City. Use our travel concierge Denver to book a custom Denver itinerary for your next trip to Denver!

top things to do in Denver

Here are top three recommended activities by our travel experts

Denver, Colorado
This guided 8 hour small-group tour departs from Denver and visits Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Continental Divide, and the town of Breckenridge. Traveling by comfortable vehicle, the tour makes several scenic stops along the way for photos and to take in the dramatic mountain views. Highlights include exploring the famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre outside Denver and driving over Loveland Pass on the Continental Divide. There is also free time to wander, shop, and eat lunch on your own in the charming ski town of Breckenridge. With hotel pickup in Denver included, this tour offers a convenient and personalized way to see top attractions near Denver in just one day.
from $149.00
Denver, Colorado
This 3 hour guided zipline tour is located in the Rocky Mountains just outside of Denver. Riders soar over the treetops on a series of 6 ziplines totaling more than 6,000 feet in length, including some of the longest ziplines in Colorado. As riders zip along cables at speeds up to 60 mph, they can take in spectacular views of the surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape. Between ziplines, guides lead short hikes through the forest terrain. With lines reaching heights up to 100 feet in the air, this zipline adventure offers thrills along with panoramic mountain scenery and is suitable for beginners as well as experienced zipline riders.
from $151.19
Denver, Colorado
This 8.5 hour private tour departs from Denver and includes roundtrip transportation to Colorado Springs. With a private guide, guests can customize their tour and commentary to their interests as they explore top attractions like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, the U.S. Air Force Academy and more. Having roundtrip transport from Denver allows guests to relax and take in the scenic views along the way. In Colorado Springs, the guide provides informative and engaging commentary tailored to what the group wants to see and learn about. With hotel pickup in Denver, transportation, guide, plus snacks and water included, this private tour offers a customized and comprehensive Colorado Springs experience.
from $425.00
Denver, Colorado
This guided 8 hour small-group tour departs from Denver to visit two iconic Colorado attractions: Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. The tour begins by exploring the unique red rock formations of Garden of the Gods before driving up Pikes Peak, which inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” There is free time in the mountain town of Manitou Springs to shop, eat lunch, and explore on your own. Snacks, bottled water, and entrance fees are included. With no more than 14 people, the small group size ensures a personalized Colorado Springs experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Denver add convenience to this tour highlighting two of Colorado’s most scenic landmarks.
from $159.00
Denver, Colorado
This 2.5-3 hour guided walking tour visits 4 craft breweries in Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood. An expert guide leads the small group to local breweries to sample over 10 different beers and learn about the craft brewing process. Guests gain insight into Denver’s emergence as a major hub of craft beer in the West. At each stop, 4-5 ounce beer samples are included along with a souvenir tasting glass to take home. As the tour walks between breweries, guests learn about the history, architecture and culture of LoDo. For beer lovers looking to experience Denver’s thriving craft beer scene, this tour provides tastings and insight into the city’s top microbreweries.
from $58.00

You can book these things to do in Denver, Colorado from Journey Connected Travel Agency in Denver, browse all Viator Denver attractions, or let one of our travel planners take care of the booking for you!

What to use for transportation?

Denver transportation

Denver Ground Transportation and Denver Airport Shuttle Service

Whether you need a ride to the Denver airport or transportation after your flight, these are our recommendations for Denver airport shuttle service and airport cars that provide convenient and reliable ground transportation in Denver. These Denver car services have drivers that will pick you and drive you directly to the airport terminal or hotel and take you to Red Rocks amphitheatre from Denver and everywhere in between.

These are the best Denver airport taxi and Uber services to get you to the airport in Denver on time with no stress. These Denver shuttle services and ‘transportation near me’ help avoid the hassle of parking and expensive parking fees; book these Denver airport shuttle service in advance. Contact us today to schedule Denver airport shuttle near you and relax on your next trip or click the links below to book on your Denver airport transfers on your own from the DEN airport, Red Rocks from Denver, or downtown Denver!

Private Transfer to Red Rocks

Private Departure Transfer to Denver Airport (DEN)

Private Arrival Transfer - from Denver Airport (DEN)

Private Departure Transfer to Denver Airport (DEN)

Private Departure Transfer to Denver Airport (DEN)
How to plan?

plan a Denver vacation

Help Planning A Vacation to Denver With A Top Denver Travel Agency

Journey Connected proudly presents a free three-day Denver travelguide, meticulously curated to showcase the finest attractions in Denver and the best Denver experiences from Denver to the Red Rocks of Colorado. Unveil the magic of one of the world’s most visited cities, exploring top landmarks in Denver and delving into hidden gems.

Indulge in the Denver culinary scene with recommendations for the best restaurants in Denver, enhancing your journey through this enchanting destination. From Denver in the summer to the festive allure of Denver in the winter, this guide captures Denver seasonal delights. Embark on a seamless adventure in one of the best cities to visit in the world, leaving no top things to see and do in Denver unexplored. Your vacation to Denver awaits – an epitome of the best places to visit in the world. Use our Denver travel guide or contact our luxury travel agency Denver, and let us plan your next Denver vacation!

Download our travel guide for planning a trip to Denver.

Are you tired of travel plans that don’t live up to your dreams?​

Elevate your next journey with expert vacation planning that turns every trip into an unforgettable adventure! Stop wasting time and money—trust our professionals to book your travel and create the perfect, personalized itinerary just for you.

Tired of travel plans that fall short?

Elevate your journey with expert, personalized vacation planning for an unforgettable adventure.

What are latest blog posts?

Denver travel blogs

Enjoy our Denver Travel Blogs Full of Denver Travel Information

Our Denver travel blogs offer insider tips, inspiring stories, and helpful Denver advice to make your next vacation in Denver the best one yet. Written by our team of passionate Denver travel experts, our blogs cover a range of information about traveling in Denver and must-do activities in Denver. You’ll discover new places to explore in Denver and learn insider secrets about old favorites.

Our travel writers and Denver travel advisors provide detailed Denver guides with Denver recommendations on where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to get around in Denver. Whether you are an expert on Denver or just starting to plan your vacation to Denver, let our travel guides and blogs be a partner to you. You’ll find engaging articles, beautiful Denver photos, and practical information in our collection of fun and informative travel blogs. Reading our Denver blogs is the next best thing to being there yourself!

When you’re ready to plan your Denver vacation, contact one of our expert Denver travel advisors and let Journey Connected travel agency provide you a custom Denver travel itinerary for your vacation!

Glowing tents of DIA at sunrise. Denver International Airport well known for peaked roof. Design of roof is reflecting snow-capped mountains.
Top FAQs

Denver FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Denver

Yes, Denver is an excellent destination for a solo trip! Known as the Mile-High City, it offers a blend of outdoor adventure, urban culture, and welcoming vibes, making it a great choice for solo travelers. Here’s why Denver is perfect for exploring on your own:

1. Outdoor Adventures

Denver is a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, or just enjoying the breathtaking scenery. You can easily take a solo day trip to Red Rocks Park, Boulder, or Rocky Mountain National Park for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

2. Walkable Downtown and Great Transit

The downtown area is walkable and full of attractions like Union Station, 16th Street Mall, and the Denver Art Museum. The city also has a reliable public transit system, making it easy to navigate without a car.

3. Friendly Atmosphere

Denver locals are known for being friendly and approachable, which makes solo travel feel less daunting. You’ll find many opportunities to meet people at breweries, coffee shops, or group tours.

4. Food and Craft Beer Scene

Denver’s food scene is diverse and solo-dining-friendly. You can enjoy everything from farm-to-table restaurants to casual spots serving classic Rocky Mountain fare. Don’t miss the city’s renowned craft beer scene—tasting rooms and brewery tours are welcoming for solo travelers.

5. Activities for All Interests

  • For nature lovers: Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens or take a stroll through City Park.
  • For history buffs: Explore Larimer Square or the History Colorado Center.
  • For relaxation: Enjoy a yoga class, a cozy bookstore, or a quiet afternoon in one of Denver’s many parks.

6. Safety and Comfort

Denver is generally safe for solo travelers. Staying aware of your surroundings, especially in the evenings, will ensure a smooth experience. The city also has many solo-friendly accommodations, including hostels, boutique hotels, and Airbnb options.

Journey Connected can help you design a personalized itinerary for your Denver solo trip, arranging activities, accommodations, and even day trips to nearby attractions. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or just some peaceful exploration, we’ll ensure your solo journey is perfectly tailored to your needs.

Yes, 3 days in Denver is enough to experience many of the city’s highlights and enjoy a taste of its vibrant culture and outdoor beauty. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit:


Day 1: Explore Downtown Denver

  • Union Station: Start at this beautifully restored hub, featuring shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
  • 16th Street Mall: Walk along this pedestrian-friendly area, great for shopping and people-watching.
  • Denver Art Museum: Explore world-class exhibits and stunning architecture.
  • Larimer Square: End the day with dinner and drinks in this historic district filled with trendy eateries and bars.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Nearby Attractions

  • Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Visit this iconic outdoor venue for breathtaking views and hiking trails.
  • Golden, Colorado: Stop in this charming town to tour the Coors Brewery or explore its quaint shops.
  • Rocky Mountain Day Trip (Optional): If you’re up for more adventure, take a drive to Rocky Mountain National Park for a scenic day surrounded by nature.

Day 3: Local Culture and Relaxation

  • Denver Botanic Gardens: Stroll through these beautiful gardens filled with native and exotic plants.
  • RiNo Art District: Explore street art, galleries, and unique breweries in this trendy neighborhood.
  • Craft Breweries: Denver is known for its craft beer scene, so wrap up your trip with a tasting at local breweries like Great Divide or Odell Brewing.

3 Days is Perfect If You Plan Ahead

Three days gives you a solid introduction to Denver, balancing urban exploration and outdoor activities. If you have extra time, consider adding nearby attractions like Boulder or a longer drive to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Journey Connected can design a customized 3-day Denver itinerary that ensures you experience the best of the city while making the most of your time. From booking accommodations to organizing day trips, we’ll help you enjoy a stress-free and memorable visit.

Need Contenta

Getting to the Rocky Mountains from Denver is straightforward and takes about 1 to 2 hours by car, depending on your destination. The most popular spot, Rocky Mountain National Park, is about 70 miles northwest of Denver, accessible via US-36 W through Boulder. Other beautiful areas like Estes Park or Red Rocks Park are also nearby. For a scenic experience, consider driving the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for stunning mountain views.

If you don’t have a car, guided tours and shuttles are available, offering stress-free transportation and expert guidance to help you explore the area.

Journey Connected can arrange everything from car rentals and guided tours to a fully customized itinerary that ensures you experience the best of Denver and the Rocky Mountains. Let our travel experts handle the details while you enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

Denver is famous for its unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Known as the “Mile High City”because it sits exactly one mile above sea level, Denver offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. The city is renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, diverse cultural attractions like the Denver Art Museum and Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and historic landmarks such as Union Station. Denver is also a gateway to world-class skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

To fully experience what makes Denver special, let Journey Connected handle your travel arrangements. We offer full-service travel bookings and specialize in designing customized itineraries worldwide, crafted by experts. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, culinary delights, or mountain adventures, we’ll create the perfect Denver itinerary tailored just for you.

Downtown Denver is generally safe at night, especially in well-populated areas like LoDo and the 16th Street Mall, which are active and well-lit. However, it’s advisable to avoid less populated areas and alleys after dark.

 

Safety Tips:

  • Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stick to main streets and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your belongings secure and stay alert.
  • Use Transportation Options: If alone at night, consider using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi.

By following these precautions, you can enjoy Denver’s nightlife safely.

For a seamless travel experience, Journey Connected offers comprehensive travel bookings and customized itineraries worldwide, crafted by experts. Let us handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Are you tired of travel plans that don’t live up to your dreams?​

Elevate your next journey with expert vacation planning that turns every trip into an unforgettable adventure! Stop wasting time and money—trust our professionals to book your travel and create the perfect, personalized itinerary just for you.

Tired of travel plans that fall short?

Elevate your journey with expert, personalized vacation planning for an unforgettable adventure.

Download Free Denver Travel Guide

Our travel expert prepared a special 30 pages Denver guide (Valued $399) for you. It’s free, fast and secure.

 

Experience the ease of booking Denver hotels via our connection with Booking.com, one of the best Denver resorts booking sites. Whether you're searching for last-minute resorts in Denver or planning ahead, we’re proud to offer our hotel room bookings on an easy DIY platform.