Welcome to Denver, Colorado! Start your trip by checking into one of the city's fabulous hotels. Use Kayak to find the best hotel deals. In the morning, take a stroll along the vibrant 16th Street Mall, lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. In the afternoon, visit the Denver Art Museum, known for its extensive collection of American Indian art. As the evening approaches, head to Larimer Square, a historic district filled with trendy boutiques, eateries, and nightlife.
16th Street Mall: Free, 2 hours
Denver Art Museum: $20 per person, 3 hours
Larimer Square: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Snooze an A.M. Eatery, a popular brunch spot known for their creative twist on classic breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, try Denver Biscuit Company, where you can enjoy delicious biscuits served with a variety of toppings and fillings. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, visit El Five, a Mediterranean restaurant with stunning views of the city. Indulge in their flavorful small plates and enjoy a unique dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about $35 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Natural Wonders of Denver
Embrace the natural beauty of Denver today. Start your morning with a visit to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, where you can admire stunning rock formations and enjoy scenic hiking trails. In the afternoon, explore the Denver Botanic Gardens, home to a wide variety of plants and themed gardens. Wrap up the day by witnessing the panoramic views from Mount Evans Scenic Byway, a picturesque drive that takes you to the top of the highest paved road in North America.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Free, 3 hours
Denver Botanic Gardens: $15 per person, 2 hours
Mount Evans Scenic Byway: Free, 4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery, known for their creative twists on classic breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head to Linger, a trendy eatery that offers a global-inspired menu and stunning rooftop views of downtown Denver. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Capital Grille, a fine dining restaurant specializing in dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood. Average cost for a meal is about $60 per person.
Monday, October 2: Historic Denver
Discover the rich history of Denver today. Begin your morning at the Denver Union Station, a beautifully restored transportation hub. Enjoy breakfast at one of the station's charming cafes. In the afternoon, explore the Colorado State Capitol and take a guided tour to learn about the state's history and government. As the evening unfolds, visit the Molly Brown House Museum, the former home of the famous socialite and Titanic survivor. Take a stroll through the nearby Historic Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, filled with preserved Victorian buildings, trendy bars, and restaurants.
Denver Union Station: Free, 2 hours
Colorado State Capitol: Free, 1 hour
Molly Brown House Museum: $12 per person, 2 hours
Historic Lower Downtown (LoDo): Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery. This popular spot offers creative twists on traditional breakfast dishes, such as their famous pineapple upside-down pancakes. Expect to pay around $15 per person for a meal.
For lunch, head over to Mercantile Dining & Provision, a farm-to-table restaurant located inside Denver Union Station. Enjoy seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Average cost for a meal here is about $20 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Rioja, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in LoDo. With a menu featuring dishes like grilled lamb and saffron risotto, Rioja offers a unique dining experience. Expect to spend around $40 per person for a meal here.
Tuesday, October 3: Outdoor Adventure
Get ready for an exciting day of outdoor activities in and around Denver. Start your morning with a hike in the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from the city. Explore the park's trails and marvel at the breathtaking mountain scenery. In the afternoon, head to Confluence Park, where the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet. Enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the park's waterways. As the sun begins to set, visit the Denver Mountain Parks, offering picturesque views and opportunities for hiking or picnicking.
Rocky Mountain National Park: $25 per vehicle, 4 hours
Confluence Park: Free, 2 hours
Denver Mountain Parks: Free, 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery. This hip spot is known for their creative twists on classic breakfast dishes like pancakes and eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head to Denver Biscuit Company. Indulge in their mouthwatering biscuits and southern-inspired dishes like fried chicken sandwiches and savory pot pies. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try Guard and Grace, a modern steakhouse offering high-quality meats and seafood. Their elegant ambiance and expertly prepared dishes make it a perfect spot for a special occasion. Average cost for a meal is about $60 per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Cultural Delights
Immerse yourself in Denver's cultural scene today. Start your morning at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and more. In the afternoon, visit the trendy RiNo Art District, known for its vibrant street art and galleries. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the district's hip eateries. As the evening approaches, catch a performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, a renowned venue hosting theater, ballet, and opera.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: $20 per person, 3 hours
RiNo Art District: Free, 2 hours
Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Ticket prices vary, 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning at The Delectable Diner, a cozy breakfast spot with a charming atmosphere. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes and delicious omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to The Local Fare, a popular eatery in the RiNo Art District. Enjoy their farm-to-table menu featuring fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, and artisanal pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at The Culinary Canvas. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of flavors in their creative dishes, accompanied by an extensive wine list. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Denver, make sure to visit some off the beaten path attractions and experience local favorites. Head to the Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms, a picturesque location perfect for a peaceful stroll. Enjoy the unique exhibits and events at the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art. Indulge in the city's craft beer scene by visiting the Great Divide Brewing Company or Denver Beer Co. Finally, take a trip to the quirky and eclectic Tattered Cover Bookstore, a beloved local institution for book lovers.