Gateway to the Rocky Mountains and known as the Mile High City, Denver is bursting with culture, unforgettable food, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor adventures.
Denver is the perfect starting point for a weekend of discovery and exploration; it’s a destination where modern city life seems to blend seamlessly with the call of the wild.
Imagine sipping coffee in a stylish neighbourhood whilst gazing at the mountainous peaks just beyond the city’s iconic skyline!
Whether you want to spend your time exploring world-class museums and discovering foodie hotspots, or you’d prefer to hike red rock trails and make your way through leafy parks in search of serenity and nature, Denver can cater to your every whim.
In this post, I’ll highlight how you can spend an unforgettable weekend in Denver, Colorado. Read on to find out more.
Make the Most of Your Weekend By Renting a Car
While every visitor to this beautiful part of the world is unique and will have their own idea of what makes a great weekend getaway, one thing is sure: renting a car during your trip simply makes sense.
While public transport in Denver is generally pretty good, car rental from Denver airport will provide you with easy access to both the major city attractions and the hikes and trails in the mountains.
Hiring a car gives you convenience and complete flexibility, which is much more laid back and fun than trying to get a seat on a bus with all your hiking gear during rush hour!
When you hire a car, you can take day trips out to places like Boulder, just a short 30-minute drive away, or the Rocky Mountain National Park, with just a 90-minute drive from the city.
Having access to your own car means there’s a greater chance for spontaneity, so pulling over at a hidden gem for a coffee and the best Denver omelet you’ve ever had is more likely!
Saturday in Denver
Your first day in Denver should be filled with culture, coffee, and the irresistible flavours of the city.
Why not head to the Denver Art Museum and take in the striking architecture and the impressive collections of both Western and Indigenous art?
Or if street art and murals are more your thing, head to the RiNo (River North Art District), where you can wander past colourful street murals and soak up the creative vibe.
If you’re feeling hungry, then hang around in RiNo and check out the cafe scene there.
If you’re not quite ready for a full outdoor adventure, then don’t worry, you can spend the afternoon strolling through City Park or the much-loved Washington Park, a great green space loved by locals and visitors.
For those desperate for adventure, jump in your hire car and drive out to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre for short hikes and jaw-dropping scenery!
When it comes to your evening meal, you’ll probably be peckish after all that fresh air! Luckily, Denver’s food scene comes alive at night, and you’ll find a plethora of high-end restaurants, quick eat diners, or laid-back eateries that all champion Denver’s farm-to-table ethos.
Locations like Union Station have a great variety of restaurants to choose from, including international options.
Sunday in Denver
You had a busy day yesterday, so why not ease into Sunday with a hearty and mouthwateringly delicious lunch from a Denver favourite like Snooze or a farm-fresh cafe?
If you’re hoping to do a little shopping during your trip, then now is the perfect time. After your brunch, head to 16th Street Mall, where you can find mainstream shops, or head to Cherry Creek North if you’re hoping to explore some chic boutiques whilst surrounded by local art and galleries.
If you’re visiting on the right weekend, pop into a local artisan market for handmade gifts and unique souvenirs.
Once the afternoon hits, you’re going to need to make the most of your last outdoor adventure and take in Colorado’s natural beauty before you think about heading home.
Take a drive up to Lookout Mountain, where you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking panoramic views of the city below and the Rocky Mountains – it’s the perfect opportunity to grab some Insta-worthy pictures for your grid and stories.
Bonus things to See and Do Before you Head Home
There’s so much to see and do in this wonderful city, a weekend probably isn’t enough!
To help you make the most of your trip, check out some of my other bonus suggestions:
- Union Station (by day): Denver’s historic train station is more than just a transport hub. It’s been beautifully renovated and now houses stylish cafés, boutique shops, and even a hotel.
- Colorado State Capitol: A striking gold-domed building that offers free tours on weekdays.
- Denver Zoo: Located within City Park, the zoo is home to animals from around the world, from lions to sea lions. It’s a family-friendly attraction that pairs nicely with a visit to the neighbouring Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
- Craft Beer Tours: Denver is often called the “Napa Valley of Beer” thanks to its thriving brewery scene. You can join a guided walking tour through areas like LoDo or RiNo to sample a variety of local brews!
- Rocky Mountain National Park: It’s only about 90 minutes away, which will be straightforward enough in your hire car. Here you’ll find unforgettable mountain scenery and wildlife spotting in abundance.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re flying in from another state or a visit to Denver is part of your international trip, cities like Denver are a perfect example of how you can spend a full weekend somewhere new and enjoy the destination and its variety of activities and attractions to the fullest.
From its buzzing art districts and world-class museums to its mountain views and outdoor escapes, the Mile High City offers a little bit of everything!
Renting a car during your trip is certainly the best way to ensure you get to see as much of the Mile High City as possible. What would you want to see first?
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