Whether you’ve come to check out the city for your first time, or you’re planning to call Denver your permanent home – here’s our list of things to do on your first visit to Denver.
Related: What To Know About Moving To Denver From NYC
What to Do on Your First Visit Before Moving to Denver
Catch a Rockies Game
Don your finest purple frock – or any purple you have really – and head to Coors Field to catch a lively baseball game with Colorado’s beloved Rockies. Tickets can often be scored for relatively cheap – especially after the game has started. If you don’t care where your seats are (and want to be close to the bar), you can get “Rock Pile” tickets for $4.
According to the Coors Field website, “Rockpile tickets are available for purchase day of game for most home games, beginning two hours prior to game time at the Rockpile Ticket Office located near Gate A.”
Larimer Square
The street “where Denver began.” In the heart of Downtown, this historic block is draped in string lights and colorado flags, and makes a perfect photo-op. Shop around, catch views of the Rocky Mountains, and visit a speakeasy or see the Alley Cats.
Santa Fe Arts District
Situated in the cool, vibrant Baker neighborhood, this nationally recognized art district is home to hundreds of creatives. On each block you’ll find galleries, restaurants, murals, and more. The first Friday of each month brings First Friday Art Walk, where you can spend the evening wandering around, meeting local artists, and dining on authentic international dishes.
Downtown Rooftops
In the summer, there’s nothing better than catching lunch on a rooftop and enjoying the Denver sun and scenery. Especially after a long day of touring, grab a bite at Ignite, Viewhouse, Linger, or Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, to name a few.
Cherry Creek
Home to some of the best luxury shopping in Denver, Cherry Creek is a must-visit. Whether you’re in the market for a designer purse or a delicious meal, this neighborhood is where you’ll find it. Spend your weekend walking through the namesake mall or stroll along the sidewalk of multi-million dollar homes. There. really is plenty to enjoy in this posh district of Denver. You can’t miss our top picks of Cherry Creek restaurants— find them here.
Civic Center Park/Capitol Building
Walk around this expansive downtown park and see the Rocky Mountains rise above the City Council Building, directly across from the State Capitol. There’s no bad time to stop by this park: in the winter the fresh snow is breathtaking, and in the summer the crisp grass is equally inviting.
Molly Brown Museum
For an immersive look at Denver’s history, visit the Molly Brown House Museum, located in Denver’s historic Capitol Hill neighborhood. This house showcases Denver’s turn of the century architecture and explores the life of one of Denver’s first renowned residence— the unsinkable Molly Brown.
Bar Hop at Colfax’s Historic Dives
Colfax Avenue— also known as the Golden Highway— was the main thoroughfare connecting east and west during the gold rush. Now it’s home to dive bars like P.S. Lounge, music venues such as Three Kings, and flashy neon signs— Colfax is a great place to bar hop and meet locals.
Afternoon Tea at the Brown Palace
Complete with pianists, imported Devonshire cream, and ladyfingers – Afternoon Tea is truly an event not to be missed. The Brown Palace is a historic high-end treat that everyone should experience at least once.
Red Rocks
This world famous venue is a must-see for any Denver visitors or new arrivals. Catch any concert here and be totally enveloped in the beauty of the west and an amazing sound experience. Even the nosebleed section has its perks: catch views of Denver’s glittering skyline and the evening moon-rise.
Moving to Denver?
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Abigail is a freelance writer who loves exploring new places - especially in the southwest - and moved into her van full time last fall. When she's not working on writing gigs to support her #vanlife endeavors, she loves packrafting alpine lakes, floating lazy rivers, and trail running.
