Denver a week

A beautifully restored Beaux-Arts train station, now a vibrant hub with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a perfect starting point to soak in the city's atmosphere.

• Grab a coffee at Pigtrain Coffee Co.
• Check out the historic Great Hall architecture.

Denver's oldest block, featuring Victorian buildings, independent boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants. It's particularly charming in the evening when the historic string lights are illuminated.

• Browse the unique shops.
• Consider dinner here for a romantic evening.

Home to the Colorado General Assembly, this building offers free tours and panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains from its dome. Look for the 'Mile High' marker on the 15th step.

• Tours are available on weekdays.
• The view from the top is spectacular on a clear day.

A modern food hall with multiple culinary concepts and a rooftop bar offering great city views. It's a lively spot to sample diverse cuisines.

• Try different vendors for a varied meal.
• Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop patio.

Explore diverse collections spanning global art, Indigenous arts of North America, and modern and contemporary works. The distinctive architecture of the Hamilton Building is a sight in itself.

• Check for special exhibitions.
• Allow ample time for the extensive permanent collections.

Dedicated to the work of one of the 20th century's most important abstract expressionists, Clyfford Still. The museum's architecture is designed to perfectly display his challenging and monumental art.

• Located adjacent to the Denver Art Museum.
• Focuses exclusively on one artist's profound legacy.

A beautiful urban park surrounded by key city landmarks including the Denver Art Museum, City and County Building, and the Denver Public Library. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

An upscale Mediterranean restaurant offering creative small plates and stunning panoramic views of the Denver skyline and mountains. Reservations are highly recommended.

• Book a table with a view well in advance.
• The tapas-style dining is perfect for sharing.

Embark on a scenic drive to this iconic national park, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Trail Ridge Road offers unparalleled views (typically open late May to mid-October).

• Check the park's website for timed entry requirements and road status.
• Pack layers as weather can change rapidly.
• Look for elk, deer, and marmots.

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning natural beauty of the park. Popular spots include Sprague Lake or Bear Lake picnic areas.

Take a relatively easy, flat loop around Bear Lake, or opt for more challenging trails nearby like Emerald Lake or Sky Pond for more adventurous hikers. The scenery is consistently spectacular.

After returning from the park, enjoy a casual dinner and local craft beer in Estes Park. It's a relaxed atmosphere with hearty pub fare.

• Sample a flight of their different brews.
• Try the elk sausage if available.

Visit the iconic geological formation and world-renowned outdoor concert venue. Explore the visitor center, walk among the massive sandstone monoliths, and imagine a concert experience.

• Check the schedule for concerts or events that might restrict access.
• Hike the Trading Post Trail for great views of the amphitheater.

Just west of Red Rocks, explore one of the world's richest fossil sites. Walk the Dinosaur Trail to see numerous dinosaur track sites and fossil displays.

• The site is outdoors, wear comfortable shoes.
• Guided tours are available for a deeper understanding.

Explore the charming historic downtown of Golden, situated along the Clear Creek. Visit the Coors Brewery (tours may have specific times and require booking) or the Colorado School of Mines geology museum.

• Walk along Clear Creek.
• Coors Brewery tours are popular, book ahead.

Enjoy local craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere in this popular Golden brewery. They often have food trucks on-site or allow outside food.

• Check their social media for food truck schedules.
• Great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

A mile-long pedestrian mall in downtown Denver, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The free MallRide shuttle makes it easy to traverse.

A vibrant food hall housed in a historic building, offering a curated selection of local vendors serving everything from pizza and tacos to ice cream and coffee. It's a great spot for a casual and diverse lunch.

• Plenty of options to satisfy different cravings.
• Good for groups with varied tastes.

Located at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, this urban park offers walking paths, a playground, and is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting in warmer months.

This popular eatery in the trendy LoHi neighborhood offers globally inspired street food with a focus on small plates, served in a unique setting (formerly a mortuary). Reservations are essential.

• The rooftop patio offers great city views.
• Be adventurous with the menu – all dishes are meant for sharing.

Wander through diverse themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, a tropical conservatory, and a children's garden. It's a peaceful escape with stunning plant collections.

• Check for seasonal exhibits or events.
• The Mordecai Children's Garden is fun for all ages.

Denver's largest urban park, home to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo. Enjoy the walking trails, Ferril Lake, and city skyline views.

Explore exhibits on dinosaurs, space, wildlife, and human origins. The planetarium and IMAX theatre offer immersive experiences.

• Allow at least 3 hours to see the highlights.
• Great for all ages, especially families.

Explore the vibrant River North (RiNo) Art District, known for its street art and numerous craft breweries. Visit a couple of spots like Ratio Beerworks or Our Mutual Friend Brewing.

• Take time to admire the murals throughout the district.
• Many breweries offer food trucks or allow outside food.

Drive a portion of the highest paved road in North America for incredible alpine scenery and panoramic views. Even driving partway offers spectacular vistas and a sense of high-altitude wonder. Note: The full road is typically open from Memorial Day to mid-October.

• Check road status and operating dates before visiting.
• Altitude sickness is possible; take it easy and stay hydrated.
• Look for mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

Enjoy a hearty, unique Colorado-style pizza with a thick, braided crust, perfect for refueling after a mountain drive. It's a local institution.

• The honey-dipped crust is a must-try.
• Pizzas are large and great for sharing.

Allow ample time for your departure from Denver International Airport. Explore its unique art installations and architecture before your flight.