Fora’s Take
Denver, centrally located and close to many beautiful mountain towns, is an ideal starting point for an adventurous vacation. The city's unique charm and vibrant atmosphere make it a favorite for both locals and visitors. This guide highlights some of Denver's top spots, offering insights into what makes this city so special.
The Fora Difference
Book with our team of advisors to unlock exclusive perks and discover hidden gems.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Denver, Colorado
Unlock perks by contacting our team of advisors to book your trip.
Things to do in Denver, Colorado
Denver Botanic Gardens: 24 acres showcasing plants from around the world. In the summer, enjoy "Music at the Gardens" as well as year round events and exhibits. Tickets can be purchased online here.
Breweries: Denver is known for it's beer! There are endless breweries and tours to hit. Head out to Golden, CO (~25 mins from Denver) to visit Coors. Or, hang out in Denver's RiNo neighborhood. Highlights: Ratio Beer Works and Our Mutual Friend Brewing
Art: The Denver Art Museum is a must hit for art lovers. You can view current exhibitions/buy tickets online here. The Sante Fe Arts district is a great area to bop between galleries.
Concerts: If timing works out, Denver is home to some awesome music venues and music-lovers alike. Look for shows at Red Rocks, Mission Ballroom and Bluebird Theater.
Parks: Sloan's Lake, Washington Park, City Park, and Cheeseman Park are awesome spots to enjoy the greenery in Denver. If you have a dog, check out Cherry Creek State Park (~25 mins from Denver ... where there are 107 fenced-in acres of land for dogs to roam without a leash.
Day trips
Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park (~90 min drive from Denver) and/or Boulder (~40 min drive). Estes Park is the home of the famous Stanley Hotel. You can stop in Boulder on the way to walk along Pearl Street.
Summer: Hit up Golden Colorado and tube down the river! You can rent tubes but the cheapest option is buying your own from Walmart or Target.
Red Rocks: Morrison Colorado. Whether you're seeing a show or just checking out the grounds, this iconic amphitheater is a must visit. Anyone can access the concert venue when there is not a show and you'll often see locals using the steps for exercise on the weekends.
Places to eat & drink in Denver, Colorado
Coffee/Breakfast
The Weathervane Cafe - Try: The chickpea wrap and the chai latte with oat milk, add orange blossom syrup (iced or hot.)
Queen's Eleven - Try: Iced oat milk latte (the best!)
Thump Coffee - Try: The smashed avocado on an everything bagel.
Rosenberg's Bagels - NYC style! Try their scallion cream cheese.
Honey Hill - Try: the lattes!
Brunch/Lunch:
Blue Moon Brewery - Try: The grilled cheese with tomato soup and the pretzel bites.
Stueben's Uptown for brunch, make sure to get the crispy smashed potatoes and the Wake Up & Rage breakfast cocktail.
Root Down - Try: Carrot cake french toast, the lamb burger, and the veggie burger slider.
Marczyk Fine Foods - Specialty grocery store - head to the deli counter for delicious sandwiches and prepared foods.
Dinner
Daughter Thai Kitchen & Bar - Try: Pad See Moa and the vegetarian crispy roll.
Ash'Kara - Try: whipped feta and the chocolate tahini brownie.
Linger - Try: chili garlic edamame, the carrot falafel plate and the bao buns.
Postino Wine Bar -Try: The Boards and the grilled cheese.
Pizza
Redeemer Pizza - Best for slices! Rotating specialty slices available daily.
Blue Pan Pizza - Award-winning Detroit style, thicker crust.
White Pie - Options include New Haven style crust (thin, similar to a flatbread) and Sicilian style (thicker, square pan pizza.)
Cocktail bars
Lady Jane - Try: Chai Town or Blood Magic.
Run for the Roses. Let the bartenders help you decide!Room for Milly - Try: The SS City of Paris or Top Sid.
Honey Elixir Bar -Try: Honey Bear or RiNo Shrub.
The Tatarian - Try: The Senator or Saturn.
The Modern Travel Agency
Fora
Reach out to a Fora Advisor.
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience with a Fora Advisor. Or, to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Fora within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Denver. Looking for more travel inspo? Check out Fora Advisor Brittany Heyward's trip report, Weekend at Thompson Denver.