10 Things to Do In Denver for an Unforgettable Day in the 303 ⛰️

Denver is known as the Mile High City because it sits exactly one mile above sea level. Which makes it the highest city in the entire United States and can make Denver a really interesting place to stop and visit. But you might be wondering what there is to do in a city that seems like it is so far out of the norm. Well not too worry. If you are planning a trip to Denver and are looking for exciting ways to fill your trip then today’s list is going to be just the thing for you. Because today I have a list of 10 of the most fun things you can do while you are in Denver. And I tried to get some good variety on this list since I know everybody enjoys something a little bit different than everybody else. 

And if you are planning a trip and have a difficult time budgeting the whole thing be sure to check out our convenient GiftYa gift cards. These digital gift cards can be purchased instantly in just a couple of clicks and they are accepted at thousands of retailers and businesses around the country. And since you can just load the balance on the card ahead of time, it means you don’t have to worry about balancing your budget and keeping track of the math the whole time you are supposed to be on vacation.

But I think that’s enough with the introduction, let’s get right to that list of 10 great things to do in Denver that brought you here today. 

1 - Denver Botanic Gardens

One of Denver’s Most Popular Destinations for Travelers

📍 1007 York St | Denver| botanicgardens.org

The Denver Botanic Gardens are one of the most visited botanic gardens in the whole country. And it’s easy to see why. The Denver Botanic Garden offers spectacular displays of all sorts of different plants and polenta of opportunities for lifelong learners. They have a passion for conservation, education, and public events. And what’s amazing is that the whole project was started in 1951 by just a couple of local Denver gardeners who had a real passion for conservation. 

I’m sure they had no idea it would grow to be one of the country's most beloved gardens in such a short amount of time.  So next time you are in Denver you can’t really go wrong with a stop in at the Botanical Gardens.

“Went here on a busy Saturday morning. Got my ticket on TripAdvisor which was easy and quick to check in. These place is worth a visit if you are around Denver downtown or want some leisure walking time. I have visited several botanical gardens in other cities and this has more interesting landscape to see. It is huge place so prepare for some walking. Good customer service. Clean bathroom and you can tell they maintain this place. Definitely worth a visit.” - Yelp Review 

2 - Happy Camper

Don’t Worry, Eat Happy

📍 3211 N Pecos St | Denver | happycamper.pizza

If you came to Denver to have  a damn good time then Happy Camper is going to be just the spot for you. They have the perfect mix of pizza, good booze, and laid backs vibes that are perfect anytime you are in Denver and want to unwind. It’s 21+, but kids can get in before 7PM Monday through Friday as long as they are accompanied by their guardian.

“Super cool vibe! Came here for the first time with a friend for a Monday dinner and it was a great time. Surprisingly still pretty busy too! We ate at a high-top table by the bar, which is technically outside but covered, and we weren't cold at all. I got the Pink Flamingo drink and a BBQ chicken pizza - both were soo good!! I would absolutely come here again.” - Yelp Review 

3 - Liquid Descent

Expert Whitewater Rafting Adventures

📍 1896 Stanley Rd | Idaho Springs | coloradorafting.com

If you are looking for some exciting outdoor fun while you are in Denver then look no further than Liquid Descent. They have expert guides for all sorts of whitewater rafting including everything from advanced to rafters to beginners who are going for the first time. And they have out of this world customer reviews so be sure to check them out if you're hoping to enjoy some of the great outdoors surrounding Denver!

“We had the BEST time rafting today! We booked the advanced trip and it was a great fit for our family. Gino, our guide, was top notch- knowledgeable and friendly we had a great time going down the river with him.

Can't wait to come back and do it again!” - Yelp Review 

4 - Convergence Station - Meow Wolf

Filled With Interactive Art From More Than 110 Local Artists

📍 1338 1st St | Denver | meowwolf.com/visit/denver

If you are looking for something a bit more cultural than rafting on the rapids then be sure to check out Convergence Station next time you are in Denver. This is a performing arts and music venue that has proven to be quite popular with locals and travelers alike. It’s Denver’s premiere immersive art experience so you aren’t going to find a place quite like this anywhere else in the city!

“This place is a lot of fun! It's great for kids and adults but Crystal and I also appreciate the specific adult nights they have. Everyone here has always been kind and friendly and very helpful and it is always such a great! We have enjoyed our passes and the discount that comes with the store items foods and drinks with the pass which we definitely recommend!” - Yelp Review 

5 - International Church Of Cannabis

A Sanctuary for Those Who Find Spiritual Fulfillment Through the Sacrament of Cannabis

📍 400 S Logan St | Denver | elevationists.org

If you are looking to partake in the 420 lifestyle while you are in Denver then look no further than the International Church of Cannabis. They have a world famous guided meditation and a 360 degrees laser light show. So no matter what kind of vibe you are trying to have when you are unwinding in Denver the International Church of Cannabis will have you covered!

“Our first time in Denver, Colorado, and we had to check out the church considering it was Sunday. Definitely an amazing place to visit. I loved the idea behind the church and what it took to make it. 10 out of 10 experience” - Yelp Review 

6 - Upstairs Circus Lower Downtown - LoDo

Craft Cocktails, Craft Beer, Craft Crafts

📍 1500 Wynkoop St | Denver | upstairscircus.com

Upstairs CIrcus is a place in Denver where you and your friends can gather to create unique D.I.Y. art and design products. Upstairs Circus gives you all the supplies you will need. Along with plenty of great drinks and cocktails to help get your imagination flowing 

“Yes yes and YESSSS!!! What a fun morning!! Mimosas we're bottomless for $9.00 and the ability to create a random assortment of crafts is at your fingertips!I did the cement tray and I thought they were gonna hand me one.. oh no I GOT TO MAKE my OWN!! How cool is that!!!!

This place rocks!!” - Yelp Review 

7 - Puttshack - Denver

A Denver Favorite For Families and Groups of Friends

📍 2813 Blake St | Denver | puttshack.com/locations/denver

If you are looking to do something fun with the whole family the next time you are in Denver then be sure to check out Puttshack. It is Denver’s number one destination for mini-golf. It’s actually the world’s very first tech-infused mini-golf experience and they even offer incredible food and drinks to really round out the experience. You won’t want to miss out on this one next time you are in Denver.

“This is a wonderful spot for the family, friends, or co-workers! We took our family here right before Thanksgiving and it was a great time. The mini-golf course was very fun. We loved that the score is automatically counted. And the food was really good. Our service was also very good. This is such a fun spot to enjoy. I'd go back for great food and entertainment.” - Yelp Review 

8 - Museum of Illusions

A Truly Unique Experience That Will Leave You In Awe

📍 951 16th St Mall | Denver | moidenver.com

The Museum of Illusions is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It is a whole museum dedicated to the most famous illusions known to man. I think anybody could have a pretty fun afternoon here. Whether you are on your own, or need something to entertain the whole family, the Museum of Illusions won’t let you down.

“Get ready for a mighty museum experience despite its small size! I had an amazing time at the museum! Every corner brought a new mind-blowing illusion, some of which I recognized from movies and magic shows.” - Yelp Review 

9 - Denver Selfie Museum

First Space Creatively Designed for This Purpose

📍 1531 Stout St | Denver | denverselfiemuseum.com

The Denver Selfie Museum is really less of a museum and more an installation that offers countless unique and inspiring places to snap a photo of yourself or your group. It’s truly one of the most unique museums you can find and if you are the kind of person who loves to document your vacations and trips on social media then you absolutely won't want to miss out on this one!

“What a great little spot to take pictures downtown. Me and my boyfriend loved it. They had a great variety of options. The worker was very nice and welcoming. It was just like the pictures I seen online. I'll definitely have to come back and bring my friends.” - Yelp Review 

10 - Lookout Mountain Park

Breathtaking Scenic Views and Fresh Mountain Air

📍

987 Lookout Mountain Rd | Golden | denvergov.org/Mountain-Parks

If you are looking to get out of the city and enjoy some fresh air and breathtaking views, then you're surely going to want to check out Lookout Mountain Park. This park offers absolutely stunning views of the natural landscape surrounding Denver and really gives you a sense of serenity and calmness out in the fresh mountain air!

“I love this Mountain...breathing it all in, was mesmerizing. This is a Beautiful view. The fact that you can see 4 States from the view is amazing. We really enjoyed our time here. There's plenty of telescopes which, cost .25 to look through” - Yelp Review 

And There You Have A List of 10 Great Things to Do Next Time You Are In Denver!

I hope something on the list today looked like the perfect activity for you to enjoy the next time you are visiting Denver. I tried to get a little bit of variety on the list since everybody enjoys something a little different. So hopefully something caught your eye whether you’re traveling alone, visiting with friends, or taking the whole family with you.