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Come for the mountains and stay for the food, culture, sights and this top 10 list.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why visit Denver?” you’ll be happy to know that the Mile High City has tons to offer! Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or culinary experiences, Denver has something for everyone. From its vibrant local scene to its mild year-round climate and majestic Rocky Mountains, here are the Top 10 reasons why you should visit Denver Colorado:
1. Animal Encounters.
Denver is home to some amazing wildlife, including bison, elk, mule deer, and even mountain lions. You can take one of the many Denver tours and attractions to get up-close and personal with the local wildlife. We totally recommend a visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary, even if you only have an hour or two.
2. Shopping.
With dozens of malls, boutiques, and shopping centers, Denver is a shopper’s paradise. In addition to the major stores, there are plenty of unique local vendors offering handmade items, vintage clothing, souvenirs, and more. Check out Denver Pavilions if you’re downtown, the Cherry Creek Mall for the largest number of stores, or for a unique experience, checkout the small, local shops in the eclectic, art-filled Milk Market activated alleyway.
3. Arts and Culture.
Denver is full of amazing artwork, performances, and cultural events. From museums and music venues to galleries and theater performances, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the First Friday ArtWalk in the RiNo Arts District and the Denver Street Art + Graffiti Tour with their chocolate tasting and beer garden visit.
4. Food Scene.
Denver’s thriving culinary scene has something for everyone, from upscale restaurants to farm-to-table eateries, to more food halls with small, local chefs than we can count and then there’s some of the most innovative food trucks at weekly events like Civic Center Eats. The city’s craft beer scene is unrivaled, featuring over 200 local breweries.
5. Great Weather.
Despite its reputation for being a cold, snowy city, Denver has a mild climate and plenty of sunshine. The city averages over 300 sunny days a year (more than Miami Beach) and each year there are days I the winter hitting 60+ degrees F, making it ideal for enjoying all of Denver’s outdoor activities, regardless of the time of year.
6. Local Downtown Scene.
Denver’s bustling downtown area is full of great restaurants, bars, and pubs. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a quiet evening, you’ll find something to do, including numerous Denver tours and attractions, in downtown Denver that you can easily walk to.
7. Denver Like a Local.
One of the best ways to get to know the city is to just explore it. Take a walk around the neighborhood with the Denver Walking Tours crew to get a feel for the city and be sure to check out the iconic downtown sights along the way. Weather not ideal for walking the day you want to see the city? No worries, just book a spot on the Discover Denver bus to see it all.
8. Outdoor Activities.
With its easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a great place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing, skiing, and more, there are plenty of ways to get outside and explore nature. Our top picks are these three experiences:
9. Nightlife.
There are plenty of ways to have a great time in Denver after the sun goes down. From clubs and bars to music venues and comedy clubs, there’s something for everyone. Dress code in Denver is really casual unless your plans will take you to a night club.
10. Colorado Springs.
Located just an hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a great day trip for visitors looking for a taste of the Rocky Mountains. With plenty of trails, waterfalls, and amazing views, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, it’s home to the iconic Garden of the Gods, a must-see and if you don’t want to drive, this tour will take you to Garden of the Gods AND to Pikes Peak.
So, if you’re wondering why visit Denver, that’s a wrap! From outdoor activities and vibrant culture to great food and nightlife, Denver has something for you and for everyone. Start planning your visit today and explore Denver like a local.