Located amongst the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Denver, CO, often steals the spotlight with its well-known attractions like the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Denver Art Museum. Beyond these iconic landmarks, you’ll find a plethora of unique experiences that truly showcase the city’s culture and spirit.
From charming local shops to off-the-beaten-path adventures, life in Denver offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to purchase a home in the city, looking for an apartment to rent, or seeking a rental home, join us as we explore some of the most unique things to do in Denver, CO.
1. See live performances
The Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, offering an impressive range of performances including theater, opera, ballet, and concerts. Located in downtown Denver, it features renowned venues like the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and the Buell Theatre. Celebrating local talent and world-class productions, it’s a vital part of Denver’s artistic scene and a must-visit destination.
For a full day of enjoyment, head to The Nickel for dinner before catching a show at the arts complex. Their menu highlights bold flavors that capture the essence of Denver’s vibrant culinary scene, paired with craft cocktails that are sure to steal the spotlight. It’s the perfect pre-performance meal to kick off an unforgettable night in the Mile High City.
2. Spend the day at Denver Union Station
Denver Union Station is a beautifully restored historic landmark that serves as a center for transportation and socializing. It first opened in 1881, and today it’s not just a transportation hub; it features restaurants, shops, and bars, all set within its iconic Great Hall. Whether you’re catching a train or enjoying a meal, this treasured spot couples history with modern charm.
“I highly recommend visiting Denver Union Station,” says travel and lifestyle content creator Iyana Parham. “It’s not only a major transportation hub, but there are also so many yummy food options in the area. I love Jax Fish House and Urban Farmer for a nice sit-down dinner. If you want a fun gastropub vibe, I recommend Thirsty Lion.”
For a perfect way to cap off your trip to Denver Union Station, try visiting local shops like The Vintage Label, a lifestyle boutique just steps away. They provide an unforgettable shopping experience offering a curated selection of modern clothing, luxury brand vintage, accessories, jewelry, beauty products, and MCM barware. Find that special item to enhance your wardrobe, personalize a hat from their BeSpoke Hat Bar, or find the perfect holiday gift.
3. Explore an immersive art exhibition
You can’t miss Denver’s premier interactive art venue and immersive experience, Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station. It’s the first multiversal transit station serving Earth and home to one of Denver’s most unique performance and event venues. 90,000 square feet of art, imagination, and portals of possibility, Meow Wolf Denver is a fun place to explore for all age groups. Solve the mysteries of The Convergence and become immersed in the excitement of Meow Wolf’s four worlds, events, or creative workshops.
Photo Courtesy of Meow Wolf Denver
4. Admire Denver’s beautiful murals
The River North Art District, or RiNo, is a neighborhood known for its lively arts scene and unique character. Once industrial, it now includes colorful murals, galleries, and studios featuring local artists. With a mix of breweries, trendy restaurants, and food halls, RiNo is a prime destination for capturing Denver’s spirit.
“There are many unique neighborhoods in the Denver area to explore when visiting the city,” says blogger and party planner Kaitlin Moss from The Every Hostess. “One of my favorites being RiNo, a cool industrial neighborhood filled with many eclectic restaurants, shops, and bars. If you’re looking for a memorable experience check out Noble Riot. Their extensive natural wine menu pairs perfectly with their buckets of fried chicken.”
Cooking enthusiasts should visit Carbon Knife Co. “As a chef and restaurateur, I’m always looking for the hidden gems of novel ingredients, techniques, and preparations,” explains Chef Jen Jasinski from the Denver-based Mediterranean restaurant, Rioja. “Carbon Knife Co. is such a gem in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. Proprietor Tina Chon cooked with me at Rioja and her store is like a chef’s dream. Hand forged knives, one-of-a-kind chef tools, aprons, vintage kitchenware; They’ve got it all, along with the chef know-how that helps with tough decisions.”
5. Visit the Santa Fe Arts District
The Santa Fe Arts District is a vibrant part of Denver, celebrated for its artistic talent and creative energy. The district is packed with galleries and studios that showcase the local artists’ work. On the first Friday of every month, the district comes alive with an art walk, where visitors can check out new exhibitions, chat with artists, and enjoy live music. It’s also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it an ideal place to spend the day.
Experience a variety of contemporary art
Whether you’re a first-time art buyer or a seasoned collector, you’ll be captivated by the wide array of creations from professional artists at D’art Gallery. Visit this vibrant hub in the heart of the Santa Fe Arts District to explore a diverse selection of artistic mediums, all crafted by local talent at their collective: D’Art Gallery, D’Art 360, East/West Galleries, D’Art Collection, and D’Art Studios.
Support Denver’s artists with disabilities
Celebrating 20 years in the arts district, Access Gallery is home to Denver’s only Progressive Art Studio for artists with disabilities. Through rotating exhibitions, classes, open studio times, and a career track, this nonprofit organization provides creative outlets for 50 artists to create, share, and sell their work. From hosting Denver’s first ArtOMat machine, to doing full blown corporate commissions, Access Gallery can do it all.
6. Experience art throughout the city
Beyond the Santa Fe Arts District, Denver is home to many art galleries that highlight the city’s creative talent. With a mix of contemporary and classic works, the galleries regularly feature local artists, making Denver a haven for art lovers.
William Havu Gallery
Established in Aspen, CO in 1973, the William Havu Gallery is engaged in an ongoing dialogue through its seven exhibitions annually. With a strong emphasis on mid-career, established artists, the gallery also showcases emerging regional artists in an AIA award-winning building. The gallery has been in the framing business since its inception, and continues to offer framing services to their clients. With 50 years in the business of mounting exhibits worthy of critical review, the William Havu Gallery continues to acquire artists of regional importance and national acclaim.
CU Denver Experience Gallery
Another gallery to visit is CU Denver Experience Gallery, a cutting edge interactive and immersive art gallery located in the heart of the Denver Performing Arts Complex. A collaboration between the University of Colorado Denver and Denver Arts and Venues, Experience Gallery partners with celebrated artists and cultural institutions to explore the creative technologies and important art of our time. Located across from the Buell Theater, this art gallery offers a free immersive gallery experience.
Photo courtesy of CU Denver Experience Gallery
7. Explore the Clyfford Still Museum
Enjoy one of the best places to spend an hour in Denver, the Clyfford Still Museum. Explore immersive art and stunning architecture during a museum experience that won’t take up your entire day. Guests can unleash their creativity with a hands-on art creation studio and attend events for all ages (children 17 and under are free), including meditation, music programs, tours, family workshops, infant art crawls, pay-what-you-wish, free days, and more.
“The Clyfford Still Museum is one of my favorite art experiences here in Denver,” says the team at the Denver-based shop, Miller Lane Mercantile. “It includes over 3,000 abstract expressionist works by the artist, all showcased in a beautiful, light-filled space. I could get lost here for hours, enjoying not only Still’s body of work, but the impressive architecture of the museum itself.”
8. Spend an evening in Larimer Square
Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest block, is rich with charm and character. With beautifully restored Victorian buildings, this area features trendy boutiques, delicious restaurants, and fun bars. The twinkling overhead lights create an inviting evening atmosphere, making it ideal for shopping or dining on a patio while capturing the blend of Denver’s historic roots and modern vibe.
“Denver is incredibly multifaceted, with city life and the mountains just a drive away. This reminds me of The Regular x The Guest, a duo of restaurants under one roof,” says Haley Paez from the blog, Mile High and Hungry. “At The Regular, you can enjoy beautifully presented spritz in glass milk cartons for happy hour and oysters with added freshness from parsley and thyme. As the sun sets, savor a Peruvian-inspired meal using local ingredients to compliment it. For an added bonus, the hidden door to the left is the gateway to one of the most elevated dining experiences in town,” continues Haley. “The Guest makes you feel like the most important person in the room with a 20 course menu composed by Chef Brian De Souza and Syd Youngreen. It’s a blend of many different experiences, just like Denver.”
For Italian cuisine lovers, Jovanina’s Broken Italian is a must-try. Located in lower downtown, the restaurant features fresh vegetable-forward dishes, handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and more. The most unique part is the Sotto Voce, situated downstairs. This dimly lit, intimate subterranean dates back to 1880 and a portion of the former Prohibition tunnel has been preserved and offers an intimate semi-private dining experience. There, guests can also enjoy signature libations, a curated wine list, and the full menu.
Photo courtesy of Jovanina’s Broken Italian
9. Relax in the LoHi neighborhood
The Lower Highlands (LoHi) is one of Denver’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its eclectic culture and cuisine. Just across the river from downtown, it offers stunning skyline and mountain views. With trendy restaurants, unique shops, and lively parks, LoHi’s laid-back vibe makes it ideal for exploring on foot and enjoying Denver’s culinary scene.
An elevated shopping and dining experience
Don’t miss The Bindery, a stylish restaurant that blends a European-inspired market and bakery with elevated fine dining. An embodiment of the LoHi community, the sustainably designed, timeless, and romantic restaurant has attracted a critical following as a neighborhood gathering place and destination for its airy ambiance and ambitious menus. Enjoy a charming escape with all-day dining, brunch-time appeal, a curated wine list, and craft cocktails in this charming neighborhood spot.
The beauty of Mexican culture through food
Alma Fonda Fina is another LoHi neighborhood staple. Having recently opened in December 2023, the restaurant is Chef Johnny Curiel’s take on authentic cuisine that pays homage to his culturally rich heritage and decades of experiences in his home country of Mexico. This charming corner spot feels like home with its warm pooled lighting and an intimate Chef’s Counter.
10. Wine and dine
In Denver, wine lovers can immerse themselves in a diverse selection of urban wineries. Balistreri Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery in Denver, dedicated to producing natural wines. Here, visitors can experience an extensive wine tasting of their award winning wines, tour the wine cellar, and take photos amongst the barrels. Be sure to stay for a delicious meal from their full service kitchen.
Photo courtesy of Balistreri Vineyards
11. Try Denver’s breweries
Denver is a craft beer lover’s paradise, boasting over 150 breweries, from small family-run spots to larger establishments. Many offer taprooms to sample both classic brews and seasonal creations, providing a unique experience across the city.
Platt Park Neighborhood
Monolith Brewing, a new brewery in the Platt Park Neighborhood, features craft beer, food, wine, and a full cocktail program. They host weekly events, including Monday Bike Club, Tuesday Jazz Jam, and Wednesday Jackbox. Notably it’s Denver’s only establishment with Feather Bowling, a bar game that combines Bocce, Curling, and Shuffleboard. Committed to sustainability and community engagement, they are a paperless company with 1% of sales going toward their Brew Like a Girl Scholarship Fund, supporting women accepted or enrolled in brewing science programs.
Central Park Neighborhood
If you want one of the best views of the Rocky Mountains, you can hike up the 11 flights of stairs at the former Stapleton Air Traffic Control Tower, which now houses FlyteCo Brewing. You can even raise a toast with a complimentary beer shot at the end of the tour. Afterwards, enjoy bowling, golf simulators, axe throwing, 18 holes of minigolf, ping pong, a full arcade, and more throughout the three floors of fun.
Photo courtesy of FlyteCo Brewing
12. Shop at a Japanese market
Pacific Mercantile is a Japanese specialty grocery store in Denver, CO, featuring a mix of local and international products. From gourmet snacks to fine tea sets, it’s the perfect spot for exploring new flavors.
“One of my favorite markets in Denver is Pacific Mercantile, located near Coors Field in Sakura Square. The market has been family-owned and operated for four generations, and specializes in Japanese food products, although they have a range of other Asian ingredients as well,” explains the team at Noisette Restaurant & Bakery. “I love wandering the aisles looking for fun food items, and they have a cute section of the store with Japanese gifts and household items. I almost always leave with some of their house-made sushi rolls for lunch.”
13. Grab dinner at sắp sửa
Located in the East Colfax neighborhood, sắp sửa is the first brick-and-mortar restaurant from Chefs Ni and Anna Nguyen. Sắp sửa’s mission is to share non-traditional Vietnamese food inspired by the flavors of Ni’s childhood. As a first-generation Vietnamese American, Chef Ni merges Vietnamese classics with childhood food memories to create a menu that is rich with nostalgia, no matter your background.
“Sắp sửa is a ‘non-traditional’ Vietnamese restaurant that has quickly become a favorite among Denver food aficionados,” says Dulcie Wilcox from the Colorado gift shop, Colorado Crafted. “The flavors are adventurous, the ambiance and service are ideal, and the location is great. Sắp sửa is right next to the beloved bookstore Tattered Cover, the record store Twist & Shout, and the SIE FilmCenter. You could easily spend an entire day on this single block.”
14. Delight in French patisseries
Denver’s French bakeries bring a taste of Paris with flaky croissants, rich tarts, and delightful éclairs, all crafted with traditional techniques. If you’re looking to grab breakfast or treat yourself to something sweet, these spots offer a delicious, Parisian escape.
La Fillette Bakery is a French inspired bakery and full service brunch spot on the East side of Denver. Everything from the bread, pastries, and braised meats are all made from scratch in-house. The bakery strives for consistency, and a fun, upbeat atmosphere to build the Mayfair neighborhood community.
If you happen to be near the Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street, try grabbing pastries or charcuterie at Le Clare’s Patisserie or SAME Cafe. They support all things local, and specialize in sweet and savory eclairs, as well as layered desserts and macarons. The bakery also offers charcuterie, fruit and veggie boxes, and can accommodate vegan and gluten-free folks.
Photo Courtesy of Le Clare’s Patisserie
15. Have Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist
Ace Eat Serve, situated in Denver’s Uptown neighborhood, presents a distinctive dining experience. Embark on a culinary journey with an array of Asian-inspired dishes, finely concocted cocktails, and invigorating beverages. Their artisanal cocktails are exceptional and complement the tableside chef-carved Peking Duck flawlessly. Beyond savoring a contemporary twist on Asian cuisine, patrons can engage in friendly Ping Pong matches or relax in the Lucky Cat Lounge.
Photo courtesy of Ace Eat Serve
16. Support Denver’s music talent
Denver has a thriving music scene with incredible live performances. “Hazel Miller is the best singer in Colorado in my opinion,” says Kathy Mullen, co-owner of the Denver-based artisan bakery, Grateful Bread Company. “Don’t miss the chance to see Hazel Miller perform live. After her car broke down en route from Kentucky to California in the 1980s, she made Denver her home, and has since captivated audiences with her signature mix of jazz, R&B, blues, pop, and gospel. KUVOJazz declared that ‘her voice charges the songs with a primal dose of genuine soul.’ Hazel was inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, and her shows are lively, heart-warming events.”
17. Capture your memories with a photo session
For a beautiful aesthetic for your creative project, visit the Denver Photo Collective, one of the city’s best natural light and commercial studios. Their spacious venue is perfect for photo sessions, creative collaborations, and events. “You’re in for a treat with the local neighbors,” says Stephanie Marilee Tucker, a Denver-based photographer. “After your photo session, there’s Egg Belly just steps away, which serves up the best Banh Mi tacos and burgers. They share space with Crooked Stave Denver Taproom and their delicious craft beers are the perfect way to unwind. This is a great trio of businesses that you can enjoy together.”
Unique things to do in Denver, CO: final thoughts
Denver is a city rich in character and diverse offerings. With everything from local breweries and art districts to stunning parks and hidden gems, there’s always something fun to experience. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, you’ll quickly realize that Denver, CO is a great place to live.
