In Colorado's Mile High City, Denver, you will find a vibrant urban metropolis situated side by side with the tranquility of the great outdoors. The city's impressive skyline, abundance of parks and open spaces, and creative spirit are hard to resist. Denver sits 1,609 meters (5,280 feet) above sea level earning it its mile-high reputation. With a multitude of landmarks and attractions, from historic neighborhoods to inventive, immersive art, Denver offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: Fly into Denver International Airport (DIA), one of the world's busiest and most interconnected airports. You'll find frequent nonstop flights from major U.S. cities and direct international flights from many destinations around the globe. From the airport, the A Line commuter train conveniently takes you to the heart of downtown Denver in about 37 minutes.
• Getting Around: The Denver public transportation system includes light rail and buses and is efficient and user-friendly. Alternatively, bicycles are a popular mode of transportation and can be rented - ideal for navigating the city's extensive network of bike lanes and paths.
• Where to Stay: Stay in Downtown Denver with its upscale hotels and trendy neighborhoods to be near all major attractions. Capitol Hill, rich in history and local culture, and RiNo, brimming with street art and culinary innovation, are great for those seeking immersive cultural experiences. Cherry Creek is an appealing choice for a quiet, upscale setting with easy access to shopping and outdoor activities.
• How Long to Visit: In 3-5 days, you have plenty of time to explore Denver's most famous attractions. However, you can explore even further on a week-long visit, including day trips to the neighboring Rocky Mountains.
• When to Visit: Denver is a year-round destination. The weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the parks in summer. At the same time, winter, though colder, gives the city a festive glow and attracts skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
• Similar Destinations: Consider visiting destinations like Portland, Oregon, with its eclectic arts and food scene, or Austin, Texas, famous for its live music scene and outdoor activities.

Highlights:

16th Street Mall:

The 16th Street Mall in Denver is a bustling main strip that stretches more than a mile through the heart of downtown. Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, this pedestrian-friendly promenade is uniquely patterned with granite and teems with shopping, dining and entertainment options. Street performers add to the dynamic atmosphere, and free shuttle rides up and down the mall provide easy access to numerous attractions. 16th Street Mall also serves as a stage for frequent public concerts and events. And on summer weekends, in particular, a variety of food vendors and local craft markets add to the vibrancy of the promenade.

Larimer Square:

Larimer Square, Denver's oldest block, exudes historic charm with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. It offers various upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Special events, including outdoor markets and festivals, regularly bring this landmark to life. The illuminated string canopy that spans the street adds to the magical atmosphere, especially at night.

Meow Wolf:

For an immersive art experience unlike any other, Denver's Meow Wolf is a must-see. This large-scale, interactive exhibit invites you into a surreal, vibrant world where you can let your imagination run wild. Wander through the unusual rooms and hidden portals of this labyrinth of creativity and become part of the story. Artists from various disciplines have contributed to these mind-bending spaces, creating an unparalleled experience.

Union Station:

Denver's iconic 100-year-old train station, Union Station, is both a transit hub and a destination. The station's Great Hall is worth a visit for its historical value and architectural beauty. Beyond its practical purposes, Union Station has become a social hotspot with several restaurants and bars and frequently hosts community events.

United States Mint:

Take a tour of the United States Mint in Denver for a fascinating look at the coin-making process. This working facility produces billions of coins each year. On the tour, you will get a unique perspective on the art and science of minting, from initial design to final production.

Colorado State Capitol:

The Colorado State Capitol stands proudly on Denver's skyline and is an architectural marvel crowned with a gold-plated dome. Take the chance to stand on the building's 13th step, which marks the city's exact elevation of one mile above sea level. From the open-air deck on top of the Capitol, you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the city and the majestic Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Parks:

Denver's park system is truly expansive and includes many parks, each with its own charm. Confluence Park, at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, is an urban oasis perfect for biking and water sports like kayaking. It's also the center of Denver's 85-mile network of bike trails. Then there's Washington Park, a quintessential Denver landmark. Its vast green lawns, beautiful flower gardens, two tranquil lakes and historic boathouse are popular with the locals, offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. City Park, Denver's largest, is home to a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, including the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, as well as sports fields and picnic areas for recreation for all ages. In the Denver Botanical Gardens, diverse plant life from around the world is displayed in more than 40 individual gardens. And finally, for thrill-seekers, Elitch Gardens Theme & Waterpark features exhilarating roller coasters and waterslides and regularly hosts concerts.