5 Reasons Why Denver is Your Next Destination

If you've been daydreaming about your next adventure, the Mile High City has everything to offer explorers. Check out these 5 reasons why Denver should be at the top of your travel list this year and what makes this vibrant city so unique. 

1. The Great Outdoors at Your Fingertips

If you love the great outdoors, the Mile High City has it all. There are a variety of hiking trails, skiing spots, and beautiful parks that are just a stone’s throw away, which can be seen by the visible Rocky Mountains behind the city. Thanks to the mild winters, hiking and exploring aren't limited to the warmer months, making Denver the perfect launchpad for outdoor adventures all year round.

Whether you’re up for some intense mountain biking or prefer a leisurely stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens, you’ll find something that suits your vibe.

2. Foodie Paradise: From Brews to Bites

The best way to a traveler’s heart is through their stomach. Denver’s food scene is sizzling, and you can expect a ton of deliciousness to grace your plate. The city is bursting with craft breweries, trendy restaurants, mouthwatering food trucks, and artisanal coffee shops. If you’re feeling fancy, check out the local Michelin-starred restaurants. A few of them were the very first in the state reognized by Michelin!

The best part about Denver’s food scene? Many eateries are embracing farm-to-table practices, so you know you’re getting the freshest ingredients straight from Colorado's farms.

3. Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Denver is home to a huge arts scene that celebrates creativity in all its forms. First, join the Discover Denver Tours Team for a Denver Street Art & Graffiti Tours: RiNo's Murals, Hidden Alleyways & the Stories Behind Them tour. Named Denver’s Art District in 2005, the River North District (RiNo) is the best way to immerse yourself in the local art scene. The Discover Denver Tours' guides will take you through street views, alleyways, and more to find hidden art and learn the stories behind them. If you head into RiNo on the first Friday of the month, you’ll get to see where the art districts come alive with gallery openings, street performances, and local artists showcasing their talents.

Additional must-see stops on your trip are the Denver Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection that will make you appreciate art from a whole new perspective and Meow Wolf, an interactive art installation that joined Denver in 2021.

If art is not your priority but culture is, join the Discover Denver Tours Team for a Denver Free Walking Tour or Twisted History Tour. Each tour explores the rich history of the city and strolls through LoDo (Lower Downtown) to take you back in time to Denver’s start.

4. A Hub for Unique Festivals and Events

One of the coolest things about visiting Denver is getting a chance to experience the city’s unique festivals. From the Denver Film Festival to the Great American Beer Festival, there’s always something happening. 

Love music? Denver is the place for you. With large and well-known concert venues like Red Rocks, Mission Ballroom, Larimer Lounge, The Ogden Theater, Cervantes, and more, you get to enjoy great tunes from all different genres. 

Fun fact: In the Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Community, Denver is considered the “bass capital” of the U.S. Many DJs have transplanted to Denver from all over the country to get their start and end up as a Red Rocks headliner. 

If you’re looking to explore Red Rocks in the daytime before a concert, check out the Discover Denver Tours Red Rocks Express Tour. 

5. Proximity to Unforgettable Day Trips

One of Denver's biggest perks? Its proximity to some seriously breathtaking locations. If you're looking to explore beyond the city, there are plenty of stunning day trips waiting for you. Just a short drive away, you can find yourself in Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can hike, bike, or just soak in the beautiful scenery.

Another close stop is the charming town of Golden, known for its history and access to the stunning Coors Brewery. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, learning about mining history, or just wandering around quaint towns, you'll want to carve out time for these unforgettable excursions.

While these are five reasons to make Denver your next destination, this city has it all. From stunning natural landscapes to a buzzing culinary scene and rich cultural offerings, there is an activity for everyone. So if you haven't already, pop The Mile High City on your to-visit list and start planning that dream trip. 

Happy travels, and see you in Denver!