If you’re looking for something unique, Meow Wolf Denver is a large-scale interactive art experience featuring dozens of rooms created by different artists. The space includes surreal environments, hidden corridors and optional story elements you can follow using clues throughout the exhibit. Plan for about 2 hours, and note that it can be busy on weekends.
Denver Art Museum offers a broad collection that includes Western American art, modern and contemporary pieces and rotating special exhibitions. The campus features two main buildings connected by a walkway, each with a different layout and style. Expect to spend a couple of hours, depending on your pace.
Mile High Comics is one of the largest comic book stores in the country, with a MASSIVE warehouse-style space filled with new and vintage comics, graphic novels, toys and collectibles. If you're feeling nostalgic for the 80s and 90s, this is the place for you.
If you’re looking for something outdoors, Denver Botanic Gardens offers a mix of landscaped gardens, walking paths, and rotating seasonal exhibits. Highlights include water features, shaded areas, and a variety of plant collections suited to Colorado’s climate. It’s a relaxed way to spend a couple of hours.
If you’re interested in beer or local history, Coors Brewery Tour provides a look inside one of the largest breweries in the world. The experience includes a mix of self-guided sections and informational displays, with tastings at the end for those of age. It’s a popular stop, so expect some foot traffic. It's also in downtown Golden, which is also a good time.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is the spot to catch the sunrise, with open views of the surrounding foothills and city in the distance. Visitors can walk the trails or sit in the amphitheater seating as the sun comes up. Plan to arrive early, as it’s a well-known and frequently visited location.
Bastien's Restaurant is a classic Denver steakhouse known for its signature sugar steak (I know, sounds weird, but it is delicious) and old-school atmosphere. The menu focuses on steaks, seafood, and traditional sides, and the setting has a vintage, mid-century feel. The sunken bar makes delicious and incredibly stylish cocktails. It’s a popular dinner spot, so reservations are recommended.
Butcher Block Cafe is a no-frills diner known for classic breakfast and lunch options. The menu includes eggs, pancakes, breakfast burritos, burgers and daily specials. It’s a local favorite for a quick, super affordable meal. Their cinnamon rolls are an absolute must. Have one there, take one to go.
Denver Central Market is a food hall in the RiNo neighborhood with a variety of vendors offering everything from coffee and pastries to pizza, sandwiches, sushi, and desserts. It’s a flexible option where groups can split up and choose different spots to eat. Seating is shared and casual.
Call Your Mother Deli is a casual bagel shop known for its breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and coffee. The menu leans deli-style, with options like egg sandwiches, pastrami, and house-made spreads. It’s a quick, counter-service spot that’s popular in the morning. They have a location inside Denver Central Market.
Atomic Cowboy serves pizza, sandwiches, and bar food, with a full bar with a neighborhood vibe. During the day, it overlaps with Denver Biscuit Company, offering breakfast options. The biscuit sandwiches are where it's at for DBC, the Cubano is the star of the show. Their biscuit cinnamon roll is a real banger, get some bacon on that bad boy too!