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If you’re planning your first trip to Denver, you’ve got your choice of attractions. Our Mile High City, nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, is the perfect blend of stunning scenery, rich history, and a thriving cultural scene. So, grab your walking shoes—or hop on a guided bus tour if you’d rather sit back and relax—and let’s explore my top five must-see Mile High City attractions!
1. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Kicking things off with a true must-see/must-visit—Red Rocks! Just a 20-25 minute drive from downtown, this iconic spot is famous for its stunning red rock formations and legendary concert venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music.
Walk the trails, take in the views, check out the free Music Museum, grab a bite or drink at the café and don’t forget to snap a few pics of the Denver skyline. If you’re up for it, a sunrise hike here is pure magic. And if you can snag tickets, catching a live performance under the stars? Absolutely unforgettable.
2. Denver Botanic Gardens
Next up, an urban oasis—the Denver Botanic Gardens. This 23-acre paradise is home to thousands of plants, serene walking paths, and colorful seasonal displays. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you’ll love wandering through themed gardens that showcase plants from around the world (The Japanese Gardens and Chihuly sculpture are our faves).
Depending on when you visit, you might catch the seasonal displays of blooming flora that can make even the toughest plant parent feel inadequate!
The gardens aren't just for plant lovers; they also host concerts, art exhibits, and seasonal events that cater to all interests. If you need a bit of tranquility after all the sightseeing, this is the perfect spot to unwind and soak in some natural beauty.
3. Denver Art Museum
Art lovers, this one's for you! The Denver Art Museum is a cultural powerhouse with over 70,000 works, spanning everything from Native American art to contemporary masterpieces.
The museum’s stunning architecture, with its innovative designs, make the building itself a work of art. They often host special exhibitions, so be sure to check their calendar. You can easily spend a few hours getting lost among the galleries—and trust me, you’ll leave feeling inspired and possibly sketching a few doodles in your notebook!
4. Union Station
No trip to Denver is complete without a stop at Union Station. This beautifully restored train station is more than a transit hub; it’s a lively gathering place packed with restaurants, shops & cozy cafés.
Grab a coffee, people-watch, or just soak in the gorgeous Beaux-Arts architecture. Plus, since it’s in the heart of LoDo (Lower Downtown), it’s the perfect starting point for even more exploring.
Grab a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes, wander through the shops, people-watch or simply take in the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of this iconic landmark. Plus, if you’re looking for a perfect spot to stretch your legs after exploring, the station is part of the charming LoDo (Lower Downtown) District, where you can find even more attractions and it’s the perfect starting point for even more exploring.
5. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Last but definitely not least, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a must-visit for curious minds of all ages and our favorite Denver museum. From towering dinosaur skeletons to mind-blowing space exhibits, it’s hands-on, experiential learning at its best and you’ll be like a kid in a candy store!
Don’t miss the IMAX theater and the planetarium—perfect for a fun break from the outdoor adventures. It’s a great place to inspire the little (or big!) scientist in you, and trust me, you might find yourself lingering longer than planned because there’s just so much to see and do.
Final Thoughts
That's a wrap—five must-see attractions for your first Denver adventure! Whether you're chasing mountain views, soaking up culture, or diving into history, get out there and start exploring!
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