Denver Lifestyle
Jun 02, 2023 • 5 min read • By: Polly Clover

Denver in Summer: Fun Activities and Events for 2023

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The Best of Denver in Summer (With Something for Everyone)

The summertime in Denver offers many fun events and unique things to do. If you’re considering visiting Denver this summer or you're a local looking for fun activities and events, you’re in luck. In this guide, we'll share the best of Denver in summer.

Is Denver worth visiting in the summer?

Denver is an excellent place to visit during summer because of its incredible climate and countless activities. Whether you're planning a day trip or a summer vacation, Denver, Colorado, offers a memorable experience. You might also be interested in reading: 3 Days in Denver: How to Spend a Weekend in Denver, CO

What is Denver like in the summer?

Denver's summertime is lively, scenic, and warm. It's the peak season for travelers, so you can expect an energetic atmosphere, fun for everyone, and sunny weather. There are countless events, things to enjoy indoors and outdoors, delicious food, and much more. Note: Because Denver in the summer is busy, accommodations tend to be more pricey. If you plan to spend the night, we recommend checking out The Crawford Hotel or the Halcyon Hotel for special offers and packages.

Denver in Summer: Activities and Events

From annual festivals and local markets to a relaxing day spa and outdoor adventures, we’ve got something for everyone this summer in Denver, Colorado. Related read: The Perfect Day in Denver: A Complete Itinerary

Farmers’ Markets

One of the most authentic things to do in Denver in summer is visiting a local Farmers' Market. There are various markets throughout the city on Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays.  Local vendors sell produce, sweet treats, and plants. If you’re visiting Denver and want some gifts to take home, you can find local artwork, handmade jewelry and soaps, and custom home decor. denver in summer - farmers market

Father's Day at Oakwell Beer Spa

June 18th, 2023 If you're looking for a cool way to celebrate Dad this summer in Denver for Father's Day, check out Oakwell Beer Spa. Dads can kick back and enjoy a unique beer-inspired spa day. Father's Day at Oakwell Beer Spa offers a VIP experience for two with complimentary drinks, a private spa suite, a zero gravity massage experience, and a charcuterie board paired with gourmet chocolates. Book an unforgettable Father's Day experience at Oakwell Beer Spa.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival

July 1st - 3rd, 2023 Support Colorado’s local arts by attending the Cherry Creek Arts Festival this July. This festival is organized by CherryArts, a local non-profit. Denver's streets become a venue for a creative outdoor art show during this special event. Cherry Creek Arts Festival will have over 250 exhibitors. Activities include crafts for adults and children, an art auction, food and drinks, and more.

Colorado Dragon Boat Festival

July 22nd & 23rd, 2023 Immerse yourself in Colorado's Asian and Asian American heritage at the United States' largest dragon boat festival. The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most remarkable things to do in Denver in July. The event is at Sloan's Lake Park and features almost 50 teams competing in the dragon boat race. Watch the boats, enjoy food vendors, and see live performances. There's also a children's area to keep the little ones entertained.

Cherry Creek Regional Trail System

We highly recommend exploring the Cherry Creek Regional Trail System if you want to enjoy Denver's warm summer climate. This 40-mile, primarily paved trail runs through the city but is slightly tucked away for a peaceful atmosphere. It offers various access points with all parts offering unique scenery. Stroll, bike, or walk your dog along the path. Various attractions dot the Cherry Creek Regional Trail System, like shady picnic spots, gardens, and The Mile High City's popular districts just off the trail. You can access the trail just about anywhere downtown on Speer Boulevard, including from Confluence Park and Sunken Gardens Park.

Denver Botanic Gardens

One of the best Denver summer things to do is visit the Denver Botanic Gardens. The area boasts 23 acres of incredibly stunning gardens during this time of year, with diverse plants and unique plant species. There are also various programs for adults and children to explore and learn more about the natural world.   The Denver Botanic Gardens also holds a summer concert series, with 10 concert evenings in the garden during June, July, and August. There’s also an Evening al Fresco event on select Mondays and Wednesdays during summer. 

Confluence Park

Escape the city's hustle while still staying in the city at Confluence Park. The park sits along the South Platte River, which is excellent for kayaking and tubing during summer. You can also explore walking and biking trails and relax in grassy spaces at the park. To rent bikes or river equipment like tubes and kayaks, check out Confluence Kayak & Ski, located right by the park.

Oakwell Beer Spa

When you’re ready to escape the outdoors and unwind, visit Oakwell Beer Spa. This unique, award-winning Denver day spa is the perfect place to relax differently with rejuvenating spa treatments. Oakwell Beer Spa is combined with a taproom that offers local craft beverages. Enjoy a chilled drink alongside spa services, including Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, an Infrared Sauna, and a Zero Gravity Massage.  Book your appointment at Oakwell Beer Spa.
Beer Therapy Room at Oakwell Beer Spa
Beer Therapy Room at Oakwell Beer Spa

Outdoor Concerts

Along with live music at some places mentioned above, you can also enjoy summer concerts at these Denver locations:

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

This summer in Denver, take a day trip just 60 miles from the city center. Drive along one of Colorado's most breathtaking roads, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and enjoy picturesque views. This 49-mile National Forest Byway isn't open all year due to Colorado snow. However, you can appreciate unique views and fun stops during summer. The road winds past vast lakes, fields of wildflowers, and rugged mountains. There are also viewpoints along the way, making for the perfect photo ops.

Denver Union Station

While the Denver Union Station is an incredible place to visit and hang out all year, it's even better during summer. This space offers a lively atmosphere where you can shop, dine, and enjoy fun gatherings. During summer in Denver, Union Station has various events and activities. Here are a few free ones you can enjoy:
  • Great Hall Live Music Sessions: May 17th - June 28th, every Wednesday from 5-7 pm
  • Fitness on the Plaza: June - September, select Saturdays at 8 am
  • Farmers Market: June 3rd - September 16th, every Saturday from 9 am - 1 pm

Coors Field

One of the most iconic Denver summer activities is watching baseball at Coors Field. This baseball stadium is located in Downtown Denver and is the home field for the Colorado Rockies.  coors field

Dine and Drink

Denver's food and drink scene is impressive, especially during summer on some of the city’s best patios. We recommend checking out these spots, which offer indoor and outdoor seating.

Denver Microbrew Tour

Enjoy Denver’s diverse beer scene while cooling off with a cold beer or a few. The Denver Microbrew Tour takes you through Denver's most unique areas while you learn more about the history of beer and local facts while enjoying delicious brews. Different options are available, whether you're interested in exploring beer and graffiti in River North Art District (RiNo) or checking out the bustling Lower Downtown (LoDo). You can also book a private Denver Microbrew Tour for a personalized experience.

Rocky Mountain National Park

If you're up for a day trip, head to Rocky Mountain National Park, about an hour and a half from Denver. Summer is the best time to visit this stunning national park because there's so much to see and do, and the views are breathtaking. At Rocky Mountain National Park, you can hike various trails, stroll around the lakes, explore viewpoints, and chase waterfalls.

Enjoy Denver in Summer!

We hope you’re excited about experiencing the best Denver summer activities and events. It’s one of the most beautiful, energetic, and fun cities during summer, with something for everyone to enjoy.  Start planning your summer in Denver and book a relaxing spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa. By: Polly Clover

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