Travel Guide: Denver Vacation + Trip Ideas

For years, Denver was best known as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, a stopover on the way to Colorado’s iconic ski areas. Yet this former railroa... Read More

For years, Denver was best known as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, a stopover on the way to Colorado’s iconic ski areas. Yet this former railroad town warrants much more than a quick pass-through. With a booming restaurant scene and a thriving arts community, Denver is worth a visit on its own.

Denver’s allure comes from a mix of everything the city has to offer: a brisk morning run through tree-lined Washington Park, a tour of the internationally renowned Clyfford Still Museum, craft beers on one of the city’s many patios, and a concert under the stars at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Even though Denver is famous for its chill vibe, its residents take the Great Outdoors very seriously—even the most laid-back visitors will find that a side effect of Denver travel is an overwhelming urge to get active, as the city offers scenic trails and parks perfect for hiking and mountain biking.T+L’s Denver Travel Guide dives deep on these attractions and much more.

If you haven’t been to Denver in the past few decades, some parts of the city may be unrecognizable. The hot Highlands neighborhoods to the west continue to house some of the city’s best boutiques and restaurants, Cherry Creek—one of the city’s top shopping districts—is regaining its trendy status, and to the north of the city, the industrial and still rough-around-the-edges RiNo neighborhood is a mecca of dining and public art. At the heart of the city lies LoDo, home to a revitalized Union Station and the new train connecting downtown to the airport. Walk the streets of Denver on a Friday afternoon and there’s an energy that’s hard to pin down. The restaurants are bustling, the galleries are full, and the people are friendly.

So whether it’s your first time or your tenth, add Denver to your travel list. There’s never been a better time to be in the Mile High City.

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Visit Denver

Best Time To Go

Denver tends to have two peak seasons: winter, when it's a stop en route to ski resorts, and summer, when the long days and cool evenings make it a great escape from hotter and steamier parts of the United States. Weather-wise, summer is the optimal time to make Denver travel plans, but you may find better deals on hotels at other times of the year. In winter, the city is known to have heavy snowfalls.

Transportation

Denver’s walkable downtown is easily accessed by the A-Line train ($9 one way), about a 37-minute ride from Denver International Airport. The free 16th Street Mall Shuttle, the city’s bike sharing system (B-cycle), and pedicabs allow you to cover more ground.

Weather

July is the hottest month, with an average high of 88°F (31°C). January is the coldest month, with an average high of 44°F (7°C).

Know Before You Go

With Denver’s varying weather, it can be 75 degrees one day and snowing the next. Pack layers, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and don’t forget the sunscreen. The city sits at 5,280 feet—hence the Mile High nickname—so slow down on the cocktails; alcohol packs an extra punch at altitude.