Denver Lifestyle
Sep 20, 2023 • 5 min read • By: Polly Clover

Fall in Denver: Top Things to See and Do (Updated For 2023)

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The Best of Fall in Denver (Updated for 2023)

Fall in Denver is one of the best times to experience the Mile High City. From local events to picture-perfect fall foliage, there's something for everyone. In this article, we'll share the best things to see and do in Denver this fall. Denver is a haven for all things fall, whether you’re a beer-drinking enthusiast, love traditional fall things like pumpkin patches, or unwind at a spa. 

Top Things to See and Do This Fall in Denver

Denver is a hot spot for fall activities. From scary to relaxing, exciting to unforgettable, Denver is a go-to destination for creating a memorable fall experience.  Here’s a quick rundown of activities, and we’ll share more details below, including dates.
  1. Shop at Highlands Farmers Market.
  2. Drink up at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF).
  3. Check out the Fall BAZAAR.
  4. Visit the Denver Zoo for Wild Fall and Trick-or-Treat Trail.
  5. Go to the Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms.
  6. Experience the Pumpkin Harvest Festival.
  7. Kayak on the South Platte River.
  8. Race in the Westy Half & 5K.
  9. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa.
  10. Immerse yourself in art during Denver Arts Week.
  11. Explore Denver Zoo.
  12. Take in the views at Red Rock Amphitheater.
  13. Bike along Cherry Creek.
  14. Get spooked at the Telluride Horror Show.

1. Shop at Highland Farmers Market

Sundays, May 21st - October 15, 2023 Fall brings the perfect weather for shopping and hanging out at the Highland Farmers Market, which takes place every Sunday until October 15th, 2023. Whether you’re looking for fall vegetables or want ready-to-eat, delicious fare, you can find it at this local farmers market. There are endless options for Colorado-grown food and local arts and crafts. You can also enjoy live entertainment. 

2. Drink Up at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF)

Thursday to Saturday, September 21st - 23rd, 2023 If sipping tasty brews sounds like your go-to fall activity, the American Beer Festival at the Colorado Convention Center is well worth checking out. This annual beer event is the largest in the nation and should be on every beer drinker’s bucket list.  This exciting event features hundreds of breweries across the country, over a thousand beer options, and beer judging competitions. You can also enjoy events like karaoke and silent disco.

3. Check Out the Fall BAZAAR

September 23rd & 30th & October 3rd, 2023 Enjoy local festivities at the Fall BAZAAR, which takes place on three different days in various locations throughout Denver.
  • September 23rd: Platte Street Plaza
  • September 30th: Sloan's Lake
  • October 3rd: Belleview Station
Enjoy festive fall activities, live DJs, and local makers and craft vendors. There's also fall food and drinks and much more.

4. Visit the Denver Zoo for Wild Fall and Trick-or-Treat Trail

September 29th - October 31st
Denver Zoo - for fall in Denver
Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of the most visited attractions in all of Denver, Colorado, bringing in visitors from across the country. And this fall in Denver, creatures of your imagination can come to life for a supernatural spectacular. From family-friendly costume contests and creature-carved pumpkins to festive food and drinks to trick-or-treating, there's something for everyone.

5. Go to the Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms

Friday to Sunday, October 6th - 8th, 2023 pumpkins What better way to enjoy fall in Denver than at a pumpkin patch? The pumpkin patch and festival at Chatfield Farms, operated by the Denver Botanic Gardens, is one of the most awaited October events. The 10-acre farm is the ideal setting for bringing all your favorite fall activities in Denver into one spot. At Chatfield Farms, you can enjoy a wide range of fun things to do, from exciting hayrides to kid-friendly face paintings. When you finish checking out all the action, wander through the pumpkin patch and find the perfect pumpkin to take home for carving or decorating. We love this activity because it’s great for anyone to enjoy. It’s the best day date, family outing, or friend get-together.

6. Kayak on the South Platte River

all season long For those who are looking to get their last few water sports activities in before the temperatures drop, look no further than kayaking on the South Platte River. The most popular place to start your adventure is Confluence Park. The South Platte River offers a relaxed vibe with gentle rapids and peaceful scenery. It’s easily one of the best places to enjoy fall in Denver’s pleasant, crisp weather.

7. Race in the Westy Half & 5K

Sunday, October 15th, 2023 Looking to get active and enjoy the season at the same time? The Westy Half & 5K is a half marathon or 5k event (you choose!) that takes place in Westminster, just a few minutes from the city.  Runners and walkers can wear their Halloween costumes and enjoy events after the race. Pets are welcome to join and dress up too!

8. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

all season long Beer Bath Hydrotherapy at Oakwell Beer Spa Fall in Denver offers so many activities, and Oakwell Beer Spa is the perfect place to go when it's time to relax. This unique day spa and craft beer taproom offer rejuvenation like no other. At Oakwell Beer Spa, you can enjoy a bubbly beer bath, an infrared sauna, and zero gravity massage. While you’re indulging in spa treatments, you can also enjoy a delicious beverage. Oakwell Beer Spa’s taproom serves local brews, cider, wine, tea, and kombucha. Book an appointment online or stop in for first-come, first-serve access to a Zero Gravity Massage chair. You can also come in and hang out in the cozy taproom without an appointment.

9. Immerse Yourself in Art During Denver Arts Week

November 3rd – 11th, 2023 If art and culture interest you, Denver Arts Week is a must-do event. This nine-day event offers countless things to see and do.  From exploring colorful arts districts in The Mile High City to watching creative films, there’s something for everyone. Visit art museums, buy your own art, and check out outdoor sculptures. 

10. Take in the Views at Red Rocks Amphitheater 

all season long
Fall in Denver at Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park
Are you looking for day trips that will allow you to get the best of Colorado's fall weather and views? Then, we definitely recommend making a trip to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, one of Colorado's most famous landmarks. Just half an hour from Denver's city center, Red Rocks is well worth a visit. The hiking trails are surrounded by beautiful fall foliage, and the weather is ideal for enjoying a concert. 

11. Bike Along Cherry Creek

all season long Anyone who enjoys biking won’t want to miss the 40-mile Cherry Creek trail during fall. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the fall weather and spend time outdoors before winter. The Cherry Creek Trail is one of our favorite activities because it combines shopping with nature. While biking (or strolling) along this lovely trail, you’ll be met with ample opportunities to stop and check out the local scene.  Whether you want to grab a quick bite at one of the restaurants, check out an art gallery, or shop at one of the luxury shops found in the upscale Cherry Creek Shopping Center, you can do it all when indulging in the Cherry Creek bike trail.

12. Get Spooked at the Telluride Horror Show

Friday to Sunday, October 13th - 15th, 2023 Want to get into the spirit of Halloween? Love horror films? Then, you’ll definitely want to head over to the Telluride Horror Show, a three-day event guaranteed to offer a fright! This film festival has an eclectic blend of movies to choose from, whether you’re looking for something on the gory side or prefer some dark humor. Regardless, you’re sure to enjoy a movie night at this spooktacular festival.

Enjoy Fall in Denver 2023

Denver is fun year-round, but fall brings a special experience! There’s so much to see and do, and we hope you found a few things to enjoy on this list. From beautiful views to the ultimate relaxation, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. Ready to relax in Denver this fall? Book a rejuvenating Oakwell Beer Spa day. By: Polly Clover

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