Denver
· US

Denver

Denver, Colorado, United States

Denver: Where Urban Excitement Meets Rocky Mountain Majesty Denver, the Mile High City, is more than just a gateway to the Rockies; it's a vibrant metropolis brimming with craft breweries, award-winning restaurants, and …

#City#Capital#Mountains#Outdoor activities#Craft beer
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Denver.

Top Hotels in Denver

Top Flights to Denver

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Denver.

Tours

Visit the Denver Art Museum

Discover artworks from around the world in this vibrant and architecturally stunning museum.

Visit Denver Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a vast array of plants and themed gardens in a beautiful urban location.

Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Engage with exhibits ranging from the age of dinosaurs to space exploration.

Visit the Molly Brown House Museum

Tour the historical home of the 'Unsinkable' Molly Brown, famous Titanic survivor.

Shopping

Shop and Dine at Larimer Square

Denver's oldest and most historic block, known for its shopping and dining experience.

Shop at the 16th Street Mall

A bustling pedestrian mall offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Experience the stunning natural acoustics and breathtaking views of this historic outdoor venue.

Hike the Rocky Mountain Arsenal

A unique destination for hiking and observing wildlife near the city.

Bike along Cherry Creek Trail

A scenic bike trail ideal for cyclists of all skill levels running through Denver.

Go Mountain Biking in Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Enjoy thrilling mountain biking trails with scenic views near Denver.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Denver.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Denver, Colorado is '2.9 million'.
Languages
English, Spanish
Average weather
Denver
Jan
cold
7°-8°
Feb
cold
8°-7°
Mar
cold
12°-3°
Apr
clear
16°1°
May
sun
21°6°
Jun
sun
27°11°
Jul
hot
30°15°
Aug
hot
29°14°
Sep
sun
24°9°
Oct
clear
17°2°
Nov
cold
10°-4°
Dec
cold
7°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Denver.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Denver, Colorado:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Denver is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.

  2. Outdoor Recreation: Denver is known for its outdoor lifestyle, with numerous parks, gardens, and recreational areas to explore. You can visit the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Botanic Gardens, or take a stroll along the Cherry Creek Trail.

  3. Craft Beer Scene: Denver has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and brewpubs to visit. You can take a brewery tour, attend a beer festival, or simply enjoy a pint at one of the many local establishments.

  4. Cultural Attractions: Denver has a rich cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and performing arts venues to explore. You can visit the Denver Art Museum, catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, or learn about the history of the region at the History Colorado Center.

  5. Food Scene: Denver has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. You can sample local favorites such as green chili, bison burgers, or Colorado craft cuisine.

  6. Gateway to the Rockies: Denver serves as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, making it a great starting point for exploring the region. You can take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, go white-water rafting on the Colorado River, or explore historic mining towns like Georgetown and Central City.

Overall, Denver offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Colorado.

What to know

Traveling to Denver, Colorado, like any destination, has its drawbacks. Here are some potential cons of traveling to Denver:

  1. Altitude sickness: Denver is known as the "Mile-High City" because it sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level. Some visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. It's important to stay hydrated and acclimate slowly to the higher altitude to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

  2. Weather variability: Denver's weather can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack layers to accommodate temperature fluctuations.

  3. Traffic congestion: Denver is a bustling city with a growing population, which can lead to traffic congestion during peak hours. Navigating the city by car can be challenging, especially during rush hour, so visitors may want to consider using public transportation or ridesharing services to get around.

  4. High cost of living: Denver has a relatively high cost of living compared to other cities in the United States, which can make accommodations, dining, and entertainment more expensive for travelers. Budget-conscious visitors may need to plan accordingly to manage their expenses while visiting Denver.

  5. Limited public transportation options: While Denver does have a public transportation system, including buses and light rail, the coverage may not be as extensive as in some other major cities. Depending on where you plan to stay and visit, you may need to rely on alternative transportation methods or consider renting a car.

Overall, while Denver is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors, it's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks and plan accordingly to make the most of your trip.

Denver, the capital city of Colorado in the United States, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1858. Here is a detailed history of Denver, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

  1. Founding and Early History: Denver was founded in 1858 during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. A group of prospectors arrived in the area and established a mining town along the South Platte River. Originally named Denver City in honor of Kansas Territorial Governor James W. Denver, the city quickly grew as more settlers and fortune-seekers arrived in search of gold and silver.

  2. Denver Becomes the Capital: In 1867, Denver became the capital of the newly formed Colorado Territory. The city's strategic location along the transcontinental railroad and its booming economy solidified its position as a major urban center in the region.

  3. Key Historical Figures: Prominent historical figures associated with Denver include Horace Tabor, a silver magnate and former mayor of Denver, known for his role in the state's mining industry. Molly Brown, known as "The Unsinkable Molly Brown," was another notable figure who survived the sinking of the Titanic and was a prominent socialite and philanthropist in Denver.

  4. Significant Events: Denver has been the site of several significant events throughout its history. In 1908, the Democratic National Convention was held in Denver, marking the first time a major political party held its convention in the city. The city also hosted the 1976 Winter Olympics, becoming the only city to reject hosting the games after being awarded them.

  5. Important Landmarks:

    • Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Located just outside of Denver, Red Rocks is a natural amphitheater known for its acoustics and stunning natural surroundings. It has hosted many famous musicians and events over the years.
    • Denver Union Station: Originally built in 1881, Denver Union Station is a historic transportation hub that underwent a major renovation in the early 2000s. It now serves as a bustling transportation center, dining destination, and hotel.
    • Colorado State Capitol: The Colorado State Capitol building in Denver is a prominent landmark with its distinctive gold dome. Visitors can take tours of the building and visit the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.
    • 16th Street Mall: This pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district in downtown Denver is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Overall, Denver's history is characterized by its origins as a mining town, its growth into a major urban center, and its vibrant cultural scene and outdoor recreation opportunities. Today, Denver continues to thrive as a dynamic city with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.