Denver Lifestyle
Feb 17, 2023 • 6 min read • By: Polly Clover

17 Fun Things to Do in Denver, Colorado (A Must-Do Guide)

titleBlockImage

17 Fun Things to Do in Denver, Colorado (A Must-Do Guide)

Are you a Denver local looking for something new to do or planning a trip to the Mile High City? If so, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’re going to share the best fun things to do in Denver, Colorado – with something for everyone. From iconic Denver activities like exploring the botanic gardens and visiting the zoo to unique things to do, like DIY crafts at a bar and relaxing at a beer spa, you’re sure to find something perfect for you on this list. We have ideas for families, friends, couples, and solo quality time. We’ll also answer common questions about fun Denver experiences, including what to do for a quick activity and how to spend a fun weekend in the Mile High City.

17 Fun Things to Do in Denver – Something for Everyone!

Denver is filled with fun things to do. Below, we’ll share the 17 best options, with something for everyone.  Here’s a quick list of the most fun things to do in Denver. Keep reading for more details!
  1. Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens
  2. Shop and Eat at Union Station
  3. Take a Guided Craft Beer Tour
  4. Brewery Hop
  5. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa – the best relaxation experience
  6. Hang Out at The Denver Zoo
  7. Explore the City by Scooter or Bike
  8. See a Show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
  9. Do Crafts at Upstairs Circus – a fun date idea
  10. Play Dodgeball at Archery Games Denver
  11. Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway
  12. Go to The Denver Firefighters Museum – a kid-friendly activity
  13. Enjoy Wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem
  14. Visit the Molly Brown House
  15. Go to the Colorado State Capitol
  16. Grab Sweet Treats From Temper Chocolates
  17. Enjoy Drinks and City Views at 54thirty Rooftop

1. Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is known as the most beautiful gardens in Colorado! You can find hundreds of exotic blooms, including rare orchids. There are various theme gardens and an amphitheater, where you can enjoy concerts during summer.  And if you’ve already visited the Denver Botanic Gardens, the gardens offer a different experience every time!

2. Shop and Eat at Union Station

If you haven’t gone to Union Station in Denver, this is a must-visit. It’s a historic railway station known as “Denver’s Living Room” in the bustling downtown area and features various unique shops, restaurants, and bars. Note: You can also book a room at The Crawford Hotel in The Union Station if you’re traveling to Denver and need accommodations.
Terminal Bar at Denver Union Station – fun things to do in Denver
Terminal Bar at Denver Union Station

3. Take a Guided Craft Beer Tour

Are you a beer lover? You’re in luck!  Denver is Colorado’s beer capital, and a guided craft beer tour is easily one of the most fun things to do in Denver. This lets you visit various local breweries, learn more about Denver, explore the most popular neighborhoods, and more. Related read: Beer in Denver: How to Enjoy Denver’s Delicious Beer Scene

4. Brewery Hop

If guided tours aren't your style and you’d rather do your own thing, you can also take your own brewery tour.  Some of our favorite Denver breweries are:
  • Crooked Stave
  • Cerveceria Colorado
  • Ratio Beer Works
  • Novel Strand Brewing Company
  • Denver Beer Co.
  • Spice Trade Brewing
  • Woods Boss Brewing Company
  • Platt Park Brewing Company

5. Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

the best relaxation experience
Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver
Oakwell Beer Spa, Denver, Co, Private Beer Therapy™ Room
Interested in fun and relaxing things to do in Denver? Check out Oakwell Beer Spa! This is the perfect date activity or place to unwind with friends. Oakwell Beer Spa is an award-winning Denver day spa that offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Guests can enjoy local craft beer (and other beverages) and beer-inspired spa treatments, including beer bath hydrotherapy, sauna, and zero gravity massage. Book a spa day here.

6. Hang Out at The Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is a fun place in Denver, Colorado, for almost anyone! This 80-acre zoological garden is also a non-profit that supports providing loving, authentic homes for animals. Be sure to check their website for various events too!

7. Explore the City by Scooter or Bike

Up for an adventure around the Mile High City? You can rent a scooter from rideshare services like Lyft or a bicycle from bike stations around Denver and explore the city.  Cherry Creek North, Four Mile Historic Park, and Washington Park make for excellent stops on your scooter or bike ride.

8. See a Show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

If you’ve never been to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, you’re in for a treat! This iconic open-air amphitheater is built into a rock structure and offers a really incredible atmosphere for live shows from spring through fall. Note: You can also visit Red Rocks Park to enjoy nature and adventure.

9. Do Craft at Upstairs Circus

a fun date idea Enjoy one of the most fun dates in Denver or an outing with family or friends at Upstairs Circus, where DIY meets bar. You can enjoy drinks while getting crafty by choosing your own project, from home decor pieces to jewelry and more.

10. Play Dodgeball at Archery Games Denver

One of the most fun places to go in Denver is Archery Games Denver, where you can play a different kind of dodgeball. Two teams get competitive with bows and foam-tipped arrows; you can go with a group or join teams when you arrive. This is the ideal activity for anyone aged 7 and up. 

11. Drive Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Get adventurous and enjoy picturesque views from the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. This 49-mile byway is just outside Denver and is the highest paved road in North America, just over 14,000 feet above sea level. Note: The byway is open seasonally, usually from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Be sure to confirm its opening before visiting.

12. Go to The Denver Firefighters Museum

a kid-friendly activity The Denver Firefighters Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Denver, especially for children, firefighters, and history buffs. The museum is in downtown Denver and has 4 galleries that feature artifacts, photos, and documents that date back to the 1800s.

13. Enjoy Wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem

We always enjoy having wine at The Infinite Monkey Theorem, a lively and trendy winery and taproom. You can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and regular events.

14. Visit the Molly Brown House

Another interesting museum for history enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys learning experiences is the Molly Brown House. The Victorian house is where Margaret “Molly” Brown lived. Molly is well-known for surviving the Titanic but was also an American philanthropist and activist.

15. Go to the Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol building is another historical site that offers incredible city views. The building is beautiful, and you can climb to the dome for a unique viewpoint of Denver. You can also take free guided tours of the Colorado State Capitol building.
Colorado State Capitol Building
Colorado State Capitol

16. Grab Sweet Treats From Temper Chocolates

If you have a sweet tooth and are looking for fun things to do in Denver, check out Temper Chocolates. Not only do they sell the best gourmet chocolates, but they're also known for selling a unique experience.

17. Enjoy Drinks and City Views at 54thirty Rooftop

When it’s time for a drink, 54thirty Rooftop is the place to go. This is Denver’s highest open-air bar, where visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery. Their cocktails and small bites are also delicious!

Fun Things to Do in Denver: FAQ

Denver is filled with fun! Check out our answers to common questions to ensure you make the most of your experience.

Is there anything fun to do in Denver?

Absolutely! The top 3 fun things to do in Denver are visiting Oakwell Beer Spa, doing crafts at Upstairs Circus, and taking a local craft beer tour.

What are the most fun day trips from Denver?

Not only are there countless fun things to do in Denver, but there are also unforgettable day trips from Denver. Our favorites are Rocky Mountain National Park, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Fort Collins.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
A little more about these day trips from Denver – 
  • Rocky Mountain National Park: a national park unlike any other with high rugged mountains, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and exciting adventures; about 1.5 hours from Denver
  • Pikes Peak: one of Colorado’s highest peaks with stunning scenery; about 2 hours from Denver
  • Garden of the Gods: a natural landmark at the foot of Pikes Peak that’s known for dramatic red rocks; about an hour from Denver
  • Fort Collins: a craft beer hotspot with excellent dining and outdoor experiences too; about an hour from Denver

Where should I go for 2 hours in Denver?

If you only have 2 hours in Denver, we highly recommend visiting Oakwell Beer Spa. You can book an entire day spa treatment, which takes an hour and a half, or walk in to visit the cozy taproom, have a drink, and enjoy a Zero Gravity Massage. 

How can I spend a day in Denver?

The best way to spend 1 day in Denver is to go to Union Station, Confluence Park, River North Art District, Oakwell Beer Spa, and Uptown. This offers the best well-rounded experience with excellent food, nature, history, and relaxation. This 1 day in Denver itinerary allows you to see and do the most fun things in Denver in under 24 hours.

How do people spend 3 days in Denver?

If you’re planning 3 days in Denver, be sure to enjoy sightseeing, relaxing, exploring nature, and dining experiences.  Here’s our go-to 3-day Denver itinerary, which offers everything you need to know for a weekend in Denver!

Fun Things to Do In Denver, Colorado: Final Thoughts

We hope this guide inspired you to explore Denver and enjoy the fun it has to offer! There’s truly something for everyone, from visiting iconic sites to adventuring the city and more. Ready for our favorite Denver activity – a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa? Book your spa day here!

Stay Connected

Join our free email newsletter and be the first to know about new offers and the latest information.

    You're in! Thanks for signing up!