7 Days in Denver Itinerary: Exploring Mile High City

Welcome to Denver, Colorado – a city that captures the adventurous spirit of the American West with its stunning landscape, vibrant culture, and rich history. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll take you through an unforgettable journey across The Mile High City, ensuring you experience its top attractions, hidden gems, and culinary delights. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, art aficionado, or history buff, Denver promises an array of experiences to fill your diary with memorable stories.

Day 1: Dive into Denver’s Downtown Delights

Start your Denver adventure by exploring the heart of the city – Downtown. Here’s how to make the most of your first day:

• Morning: Begin with a breakfast feast at Snooze An A.M. Eatery, known for its vibrant atmosphere and inventive pancakes. Energized, head towards Larimer Square to glimpse Denver’s Victorian buildings and chic boutiques.
• Afternoon: Visit the Denver Art Museum, an architectural marvel housing a vast collection of indigenous and global art. Don’t miss the Clyfford Still Museum nearby, dedicated to the work of this pioneering abstract expressionist.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Union Station’s The Cooper Lounge, offering both sophistication and a taste of Denver’s local ingredients. Conclude your night with a stroll along the illuminated 16th Street Mall.

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park Adventure

On your second day, venture out to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, a playground for nature lovers and adventurers alike:

• Morning: Start early and drive to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Grab a quick breakfast and coffee at Kind Coffee before entering the park.
• All Day: Hike along the park’s numerous trails, such as Bear Lake or Alberta Falls, for breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes. Keep an eye out for wildlife including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose.
• Evening: Return to Denver and unwind with a casual dinner at Avanti F&B, a modern food hall featuring an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars with a rooftop offering city skyline views.

Day 3: Arts, Culture, and Brews

Denver’s artistic and culinary scenes shine bright today:

• Morning: Begin at the Denver Botanic Gardens, where themed gardens and exotic plant collections promise a serene start to your day.
• Afternoon: Explore the River North Art District (RiNo), renowned for its street art, galleries, and craft breweries. Enjoy a local beer and lunch at one of the innovative food halls.
• Evening: Dine at Mercantile Dining & Provision inside Union Station, experiencing farm-to-table excellence that encapsulates Denver’s food revolution.

Day 4: Historical Pursuits and Parkside Repose

Today, delve into Denver’s rich history before unwinding in one of its famous parks:

• Morning: Tour the Colorado State Capitol and marvel at its architectural grandeur. Don’t miss the opportunity to stand on the 13th step, exactly one mile above sea level.
• Afternoon: Relax at Washington Park, offering paddle boating, scenic jogging paths, and picnic spots amidst lush greenery and flower gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy global cuisine at Onefold with comforting dishes that bring a world of flavors to Denver’s doorstep.

Day 5: Mountain Escapes and Spa Relaxation

Embark on an excursion to the mountains for breathtaking landscapes and serene relaxation:

• Day: Drive to the quaint town of Boulder, just 30 minutes away. Explore the local shops, hike the Flatirons, and indulge in the town’s vibrant food scene. Visit the renowned Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch.
• Evening: Return to Denver and pamper yourself at the The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon, offering a range of treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind after a day of exploration.

Day 6: Sports, Leisure, and Shopping

Get a taste of Denver’s leisure and entertainment offerings:

• Morning: Tour Coors Field and possibly catch a Colorado Rockies baseball game, embracing the local sports culture.
• Afternoon: Shop and stroll through Cherry Creek Shopping Center, home to both high-end retailers and unique local boutiques.
• Evening: Savor the creative cocktails and dinner in the downtown, blending live music with a delightful dining experience.

Day 7: Departure with Denver Delicacies

On your final day, immerse yourself in Denver’s food scene before departing:

• Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at the Denver Biscuit Company, renowned for its gigantic biscuit sandwiches.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through Larimer Square for last-minute shopping and enjoy a farewell lunch at Rioja, known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Exploring Denver’s Culinary Landscape

Denver’s culinary scene is a dynamic blend of traditional flavors and innovative dining experiences. It’s a city where you can start your day with a classic Denver omelet, enjoy an authentic Mexican lunch, and end with a farm-to-table feast that showcases the best of Colorado’s local produce. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of the city’s famed breweries and taprooms to sample a range of craft beers that Denver is renowned for.

Denver’s Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities

Denver is not just a city; it’s a gateway to the great outdoors. With over 200 parks within the city limits and the Rocky Mountains at its doorstep, Denver offers endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Spend an afternoon kayaking on the South Platte River or explore the extensive network of bike trails. For a more leisurely day, pack a picnic and enjoy the serene settings of City Park or Cheesman Park, both offering stunning views and a chance to unwind amidst nature.

A Night Out in Denver

As the sun sets, Denver comes alive with a vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes. The city boasts an impressive array of entertainment options, from jazz bars and dance clubs to rooftop lounges and speakeasies. The South Broadway district, known locally as SoBo, is a hotspot for live music and eclectic bars, while LoDo (Lower Downtown) offers stylish cocktail bars and breweries set among historic buildings. Experience Denver’s thriving night scene and make your evenings as adventurous as your days.

Denver’s Art and Culture

Denver harbors a rich tapestry of art and culture, visible in its diverse museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The Denver Art Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver are must-visits for art lovers, while history enthusiasts will appreciate the stories told at the History Colorado Center. The city’s cultural vibrancy is also evidenced through its numerous festivals, live music performances, and street art that adorn many of Denver’s neighborhoods.