5-Day Adventure and Relaxation on a Shoestring Budget in Denver, Colorado

Day 1: Explore Downtown

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring delicious biscuit sandwiches that are a local favorite.
Walk from your accommodation if downtown, or take the light rail to the nearest station.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Denver Art Museum

Explore an impressive collection of Native American art and contemporary pieces in this stunning downtown venue.
Walk to the museum which is a short distance from breakfast.
USD13, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs

Grab a tasty gourmet hot dog paired with unique toppings that reflect Denver’s culinary innovation.
Take a short walk from the museum.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through City Park

Relax at this beautiful park where you can enjoy the scenery and perhaps do some people watching.
Take the number 32 bus from downtown to City Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens

Wander through the exquisite gardens that showcase Colorado's diverse plant life.
Take the number 15 bus from City Park to the gardens.
USD12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa Bonita

Experience the fun and quirky atmosphere of this famous restaurant while enjoying budget-friendly Mexican eats.
Use rideshare to reach Casa Bonita.
USD20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll on 16th Street Mall

Wind down with a casual walk down this pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops and street performers.
Use rideshare or take the mall shuttle back to downtown.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature Adventure

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

6:30AM

Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park

Start early for a scenic drive to the storied park known for its breathtaking landscapes.
Rent a car and drive, approximately 1.5 hours from Denver.
USD20 (rental share), 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Picnic Area

Pack some granola bars and fruit for a convenient breakfast amidst stunning mountain views.
Find a picnic spot after entering the park.
USD5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Bear Lake

Embark on an easy hike around Bear Lake and take in the mesmerizing scenery.
Drive to the Bear Lake trailhead inside the park.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Park's Snack Bar

Refuel with a quick bite at the snack bar that offers sandwiches and drinks.
Visit the nearby snack bar after hiking.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Scenic Drive along Trail Ridge Road

Experience the breathtaking drives over the highest paved road in North America.
Resume driving along Trail Ridge Road for stunning views.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Wildlife Viewing at Alpine Visitor Center

Look out for elk and other wildlife while enjoying the alpine scenery.
Stop at the visitor center during your scenic drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The View Restaurant

Dine within the park at a budget-friendly restaurant that offers beautiful views.
Enjoy a meal at The View Restaurant before heading back to Denver.
USD25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Drive back to Denver

Return to Denver as you descend from the mountains, reflecting on the day's natural beauty.
Drive back to Denver, about 1.5 hours.
Included in earlier rental share., 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Discoveries

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner Beet

Revitalize with organic breakfast items at this cozy café known for healthy options.
Walk or take a short bus ride downtown.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the History Colorado Center

Explore Colorado's past through engaging exhibits that tell the story of the state's heritage.
Take the 16 bus to the museum.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Market

Enjoy a farm-to-table experience with local ingredients at this vibrant spot in Larimer Square.
Walk to Larimer Square from the museum.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Union Station

Wander through this beautifully restored train station filled with shops and eateries.
A short walk from Larimer Square.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Dive into fascinating exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration.
Take the number 15 bus from Union Station to the museum.
USD15, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sam's No. 3

Indulge in a classic diner experience with delicious hearty meals, perfect for your budget.
Take the same bus back downtown.
USD15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Catch a Local Live Music Show

Experience Denver's vibrant live music scene at a local venue or bar.
Check out venues near your accommodation.
USD10 (entry cost), 2 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Golden

Golden, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Golden Diner

Start your day with a classic American breakfast at this beloved local diner.
Use rideshare to get to Golden.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Coors Brewery

Take a free tour of the iconic brewery and enjoy complimentary samples.
Walk to the brewery from the diner.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike at Lookout Mountain

Experience beautiful trails with panoramic views of the area; a perfect way to immerse in nature.
A short drive to Lookout Mountain from the brewery.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Golden City Brewery

Enjoy the local brew and food trucks that typically gather here for a laid-back lunch experience.
Drive or rideshare back to Golden downtown.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Golden History Museum

Learn about Gold Rush days and the region’s history in a fascinating little museum.
Short walk from the brewery.
USD10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll along Clear Creek

Take a peaceful walk along the creekside, enjoying the natural beauty and maybe a snack from a local vendor.
Walk to Clear Creek from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Woody's Woodfired Pizza

Savor a delicious pizza in a family-friendly atmosphere before heading back to Denver.
Rideshare or drive back to the pizza place.
USD20, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Denver

Head back to Denver relaxed and filled with new experiences.
Use rideshare to return to your accommodation.
Included in earlier rideshares., 1 hour
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Day 5: Final Relaxation Day

Denver, Colorado

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Denver Omelette

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast spot known for its traditional omelets and welcoming atmosphere.
Walk from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of aviation and space exploration.
Take the number 3 bus from downtown.
USD12, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at 3 Margaritas

Dig into traditional Mexican cuisine at this affordable local joint for a satisfying lunch.
Bus back towards downtown for options.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Washington Park

Unwind in one of Denver's best parks, perfect for strolling or enjoying a book under the trees.
Use the number 11 bus to get to Washington Park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Cherry Creek Shopping District

Explore this charming district for some window shopping or affordable souvenirs.
Take the light rail from Washington Park to Cherry Creek.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Cherry Cricket

Close your trip with a taste of Denver’s famous burgers in a lively atmosphere.
Short walk from your last destination.
USD20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Final Stroll in Civic Center Park

Take a leisurely walk around the park to reflect on your journey and enjoy the evening ambiance.
Walk back towards downtown to Civic Center Park.
Free, 1 hour
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