As a first-time visitor to Denver, you’ll want a basic itinerary that includes main attractions without overwhelming you. This 3-day itinerary for things to do in Denver combines cultural experiences with natural attractions and fun activities. I’ve drawn on my personal travel experiences in this city to add useful advice about when to visit, how to get around, and handling different weather conditions. Your trip will blend city sights with Denver outdoor experiences to create lasting memories. The first part of each day includes essential tasks you can modify based on your needs. The following guide provides an efficient way to hit the highlights.
Day 1: Downtown and Culture
Start your Denver adventure in the heart of the city. Downtown offers a great intro to the Mile High City’s vibe. The morning atmosphere in this place gives me energy because it’s still pretty empty.
Denver Art Museum Visit
The Denver Art Museum marks the beginning of this journey. The museum stands out as a top Denver attraction because of its distinctive building design and wide range of exhibits. It opens at 10 a.m. daily; aim to arrive early. Spend about two hours exploring exhibits from American Indian art to modern pieces. Adult entry is $18, but check for free admission days (source).
The Hamilton Building’s design stands as its own reason to visit according to my personal experience. The structure resembles a titanium vessel. Photography enthusiasts can take outdoor photos without buying tickets.
Larimer Square Stroll
Next, walk over to Larimer Square. This historic block features various shops, cafes, and street art for an authentic experience. Grab lunch at the Market at Larimer Square. Stroll for an hour or so, window-shopping or people-watching.
Pro tip: The heat requires you to enter air-conditioned boutiques for relief. Denver summers can reach 90 deg F (32 deg C), so drink plenty of water (NOAA climate data).
Head to Union Station in the afternoon for free events. End your day with dinner downtown. Total walking: about 2 miles.
Transport options: Rideshares like Uber work well here. The free 16th Street Mall shuttle provides a convenient way to move between locations.
Transport Options Comparison
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (e.g., Uber) | Flexible, door-to-door | Can be pricey during peaks |
| Light Rail | Affordable, scenic | Limited routes |
| Free Shuttle | No cost, frequent | Downtown only |
| Car Rental | Full flexibility for day trips | Parking hassles |
Day 2: Nature and Science
Today focuses on science and animals. These Denver spots offer educational experiences for curious visitors.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Head to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science in City Park. It’s a leading choice for things to do in Denver, with space exhibits, dinosaur displays, and gem collections. Plan for three hours; it’s engaging for all ages.
I stay for the planetarium shows because they create a mesmerizing experience. Entry is about $23 for adults (source); it’s less busy on weekdays.
Denver Zoo Exploration
The Denver Zoo is right next door. It offers a peaceful afternoon with its 3,000 animals. Walk the paths, catch a feeding demo, and enjoy the shaded areas. Allow two to three hours.
From field notes: The zoo requires sunscreen because its 80-acre site has extensive open spaces. It’s great for families or solo travelers.
Both spots have indoor areas accessible during rain. Evening: Picnic in City Park or dine nearby. It’s 4 miles from downtown via car or light rail.
Decision point: If it’s cold (below 40 deg F in winter), prioritize indoor exhibits first.
Day 3: Day Trip to Surrounds
Wrap up with a Denver outdoor escape. The short car journey exposed me to stunning scenery that contrasted with city life.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Hike
Drive to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, about 15 miles west. It combines music history with hiking trails. Hike the Trading Post Trail – it’s 1.4 miles round trip, easy to moderate.
I’ve hiked here at sunrise; the red rock formations glow. Park entrance is free, but concerts may require tickets (source). Elevation is 6,450 feet, so bring sturdy shoes and water. Check out our hiking gear checklist for tips.
Spend the morning exploring, then relax with views of the Rockies.
Getting There and Back
Rent a car for flexibility, or join a guided tour. Drive time is 30 minutes each way. Public transport is limited, so plan ahead.
If time allows, visit Golden for craft beer or a museum in the afternoon.
Return to Denver in the evening to reflect on your journey. This day adds adventure to your list of things to do in Denver. For more hikes, see our Pikes Peak guide.
General Planning Advice
Denver sits at 5,280 feet, so drink extra water to prevent altitude sickness. I got a headache on my first visit. Acclimate by taking it easy on day one.
Weather varies: Summers are dry and hot, winters freezing with snow. Check forecasts; December can bring 20 deg F days with holiday lights.
Transport: Airport light rail gets you downtown quickly. Rideshares and rentals beat buses for excursions.
Budget: Expect moderate costs for attractions and meals. Look for combo tickets to save.
Safety: Streets are walkable, but avoid unlit areas at night. Follow Leave No Trace on hikes – pack out trash.
Pitfalls: Overpacking your schedule. Build in downtime. Consider swapping zoo for botanic gardens if preferred.
Seasonal note: Fall is great for leaf-peeping drives. In winter, ski resorts are a day trip away, but book early.
This itinerary covers fundamental Denver activities with room for changes. Adjust based on your energy and interests. Safe travels – Denver’s charm will hook you.
FAQ
How to spend 3 days in Denver?
Follow a balanced plan: Day 1 for downtown culture, Day 2 for museums and zoo, Day 3 for outdoor hikes like Red Rocks. Add flexibility for weather and pack water to handle elevation; check Chautauqua Park guide for similar ideas.
What to do with one day in Denver?
Focus on downtown highlights – visit the Art Museum, stroll Larimer Square, and end with Union Station vibes. It’s walkable and fun; grab a free shuttle to save steps.
Is there anything fun to do in Denver for a short trip?
Yes, mix urban fun like street art walks with quick nature spots in City Park for an enjoyable brief visit. Try people-watching in Larimer Square for a low-key vibe.
What day trips from Denver are worth it?
Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers great hikes and views, just 30 minutes away – perfect for scenery lovers. Bring trekking poles for the trails.
How does elevation affect things to do in Denver?
At 5,280 feet, stay hydrated and pace yourself to avoid fatigue, especially on outdoor activities. Ease into hikes and drink extra water daily.
