Denver Top 10 BEST Places, Colorado: A Must-Visit Destination

BEST Places, Colorado

Denver, the capital city of Colorado, is a great destination for those who love the outdoors, art, and culture. With stunning mountain views, diverse neighborhoods, and a vibrant food and drink scene, Denver has something for everyone. In this article, we'll take a look at the top 10 must-visit places in Denver.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
3. Denver Art Museum
4. Larimer Square
5. Coors Field
6. Denver Botanic Gardens
7. Denver Zoo
8. Colorado State Capitol
9. Union Station
10. 16th Street Mall
11. Conclusion
12. FAQs

1. Introduction

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. But the city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, museums, and food and drink options. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 must-visit places in Denver, from beautiful parks to historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.

2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

If you love music and outdoor activities, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a must-visit destination in Denver. The park is located just 15 miles west of the city and features natural rock formations and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an iconic outdoor venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from The Beatles to U2.

3. Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The museum's collection includes more than 70,000 works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary. The museum's architecture is also impressive, with unique buildings designed by world-renowned architects. The Denver Art Museum is located in Denver, Colorado, in the United States. It is a large art museum that has a diverse collection of artworks from around the world, including African, American Indian, Asian, European, and contemporary art. The museum has over 70,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to textiles and photographs.

The museum is known for its unique architecture, with two buildings designed by different architects. The older building, designed by Italian architect Gio Ponti, was completed in 1971 and features a distinctive, triangular shape. The newer building, designed by American architect Daniel Libeskind, was completed in 2006 and is known for its sharp angles and titanium panels.

The Denver Art Museum offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and events throughout the year. It also has a gift shop and several dining options, including a café and a restaurant.

If you're interested in visiting the Denver Art Museum, you can find more information on its website, including hours of operation, admission prices, and current exhibitions.

4. Larimer Square

If you're looking for a charming and historic neighborhood, Larimer Square is a must-visit destination. The area is home to some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The historic buildings and cobblestone streets give the neighborhood a unique and charming atmosphere.  Larimer Square Originally built in the mid-1800s, Larimer Square was once a bustling commercial district. However, by the mid-20th century, many of the buildings had fallen into disrepair and the area had become run down. In the 1960s, a local businesswoman named Dana Crawford spearheaded a restoration project that transformed the area into the vibrant destination it is today.

Today, Larimer Square is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is home to a wide range of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. It is also known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. In the summer months, Larimer Square hosts a variety of events, including concerts, outdoor movies, and festivals.

Larimer Square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of Denver's most iconic landmarks. If you're visiting Denver, a stroll through Larimer Square is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

5. Coors Field

Sports fans won't want to miss Coors Field, the home of the Colorado Rockies. The stadium is located in the heart of downtown Denver and offers stunning views of the city skyline and mountains. Whether you're a baseball fan or not, the stadium's unique design and atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. The stadium was opened in 1995 and has a seating capacity of over 50,000 people. 

It is named after Coors Brewing Company, a local brewery that is also the team's official beer sponsor. The stadium is known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and for being one of the most hitter-friendly ballparks in the league due to the high altitude of Denver.

In addition to hosting regular season games, Coors Field has also hosted several Major League Baseball events, including the All-Star Game in 1998 and the World Series in 2007.

The stadium features a variety of amenities for fans, including multiple levels of seating, luxury suites, and a rooftop deck with views of the city and the mountains. There are also several restaurants and bars located within the stadium, offering a variety of food and drink options

6. Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers from around the world, as well as art installations and events throughout the year. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination. The gardens are divided into several themed areas, including the Japanese Garden, the Mordecai Children's Garden, and the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory. The gardens also feature an extensive collection of native plants from the Rocky Mountain region, as well as a variety of exotic plants from other parts of the world.

In addition to the gardens, the Denver Botanic Gardens also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including guided tours, classes, and workshops. The gardens are also home to a variety of art installations and exhibitions throughout the year.

If you're visiting Denver and love nature, the Denver Botanic Gardens is definitely worth a visit. You can find more information about hours of operation, admission prices, and upcoming events on their website.

7. Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. The zoo covers over 80 acres and features a variety of exhibits showcasing animals in their natural habitats. Some of the popular exhibits include the Predator Ridge, Tropical Discovery, and Elephant Passage. The zoo is also home to several endangered species, including the Amur leopard, Sumatran tiger, and black rhinoceros.

In addition to the animal exhibits, the Denver Zoo offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. These include guided tours, animal encounters, and summer camps for kids. The zoo also has several dining options, including a café and several food carts throughout the park.

The Denver Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is committed to conservation efforts both at the zoo and in the wild. If you're visiting Denver and love animals, the Denver Zoo is definitely worth a visit. You can find more information about hours of operation, admission prices, and upcoming events on their website.

8. Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The building's stunning gold dome is a symbol of the state's history and heritage. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about the state's history and government. The capitol building was constructed in the late 1800s and is known for its distinctive gold dome, which is covered in 200 ounces of pure gold. The building is made of Colorado white granite and features classical architecture, including columns, pediments, and a grand staircase.

Visitors to the Colorado State Capitol can take a free tour of the building, which includes a visit to the rotunda, the legislative chambers, and the Governor's office. The tour also provides a history of Colorado's government and the building itself

The capitol building is surrounded by a park-like setting with views of the Rocky Mountains and features several monuments, including the Colorado Veterans Monument and the Civil War Monument. The building is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you're interested in history or government, a visit to the Colorado State Capitol is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. The tours are informative and free, and the building itself is a beautiful example of Colorado's rich history and culture.

9. Union Station

Union Station is a historic transportation hub that has been restored and transformed into a modern entertainment and dining destination. Union Station is a historic transportation hub located in downtown Denver, Colorado, in the United States. It was originally built in 1881 as the primary railway station in Denver, and it has since been restored and renovated into a vibrant public space that includes a hotel, restaurants, and shops.

The station's stunning Beaux-Arts architecture has been preserved and restored, and visitors can enjoy the building's grand hall, which features a 65-foot-high ceiling and massive windows that let in natural light. The station also features a train hall, where travelers can catch Amtrak and commuter rail lines, including the University of Colorado A Line, which connects the station to Denver International Airport.

In addition to its transportation functions, Union Station is also a popular destination for dining and shopping. The station features a variety of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, as well as several boutique retailers and a bookstore.

Union Station is also home to several public spaces, including the Terminal Bar, which is housed in the station's original ticketing office, and the Crawford Hotel, which occupies the upper floors of the building and offers luxurious accommodations.

If you're visiting Denver, a stop at Union Station is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. The building's history and architecture make it a must-see destination, and the dining and shopping options make it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

10. 16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-only street that runs through the heart of downtown Denver. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can also take a free shuttle along the street to explore the area.

11. Conclusion

Denver is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. From stunning outdoor scenery to world-class museums and historic neighborhoods, there's something for everyone in Denver. The top 10 must-visit places in Denver are just a few examples of the city's many offerings.

12. FAQs

• What is the best time to visit Denver?

The best time to visit Denver is from April to October when the weather is mild and sunny.

• Is Denver a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Denver is generally a safe city for tourists. However, visitors should still take common safety precautions, such as staying aware of their surroundings and avoiding unfamiliar areas at night.

• What is the altitude of Denver?

Denver is known as the "Mile High City" because it sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level.

• What is the best way to get around Denver?

The best way to get around Denver is by public transportation, including buses and light rail. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services or rent a car.

• What is the food scene like in Denver?

Denver has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with options ranging from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors.

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