Things to Do in Denver, CO

Denver is one of those cities where weekends fill up fast, in the best possible way. You might start your Saturday with coffee in Capitol Hill, spend the afternoon biking along the Cherry Creek Trail, and finish the day at a concert under the stars at Red Rocks. For anyone considering a move here, exploring the variety of things to do in Denver is the clearest window into what makes this city so magnetic.

One of the first things newcomers notice is how much green space Denver has for a city its size. Washington Park, often called “Wash Park” by locals, is a favorite with its two lakes, colorful flower gardens, and miles of paths filled with runners, cyclists, and strollers. On any sunny day, you’ll see volleyball nets set up, kids on paddleboats, and families camped out for picnics.

City Park, Denver’s largest urban park, adds even more variety with its sprawling lawns, walking trails, and paddleboat-friendly lake. It’s also home to the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science, making it a go-to spot for families and school field trips. With the city skyline framed by the Rockies in the distance, it’s one of the most photographed views in Denver.

Over on the west side, Sloan’s Lake offers mountain reflections that make it just as popular for morning jogs as it is for sunset walks. For a bigger escape without leaving the metro area, Cherry Creek State Park delivers with its massive reservoir for boating, swimming, and fishing, plus trails and campgrounds that feel like a weekend getaway. And even if you live downtown, the Cherry Creek Trail winds right through the city, connecting neighborhoods while giving you a scenic route to commute or unwind.

Locals will tell you that your first concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is unforgettable. Carved into towering sandstone formations, the venue delivers acoustics you can’t find anywhere else and a view of Denver twinkling in the distance. However, residents know that the best part of Red Rocks is that it isn’t just for concerts.

During the day, people hike the surrounding trails or climb the amphitheater steps for a workout that doubles as a bragging right. In the summer, the venue hosts community favorites like Yoga on the Rocks, where hundreds gather for sunrise sessions, and Movies on the Rocks, which transforms the stage into an outdoor theater under the stars. For Denverites, Red Rocks isn’t just a destination; it’s part of the lifestyle, whether you’re catching a legendary show, joining a yoga class, or simply watching the sun come up over the city.

Denver’s art scene is just as lively as its outdoor culture. The Denver Art Museum stands out with its striking architecture and diverse collections, but the creative energy doesn’t stop there. On First Fridays, galleries in the Santa Fe Arts District open their doors for an evening of live music, food trucks, and local art that spills out onto the streets.

In RiNo (River North Arts District), massive murals turn warehouse walls into canvases, while inside you’ll find breweries and galleries that double as gathering spaces. Adding to the city’s creative reputation is Meow Wolf Denver: Convergence Station, an immersive art experience that blends large-scale installations, storytelling, and interactive design into a surreal adventure for all ages. Exploring Denver’s art districts and attractions feels less like a formal outing and more like stepping into a constantly evolving neighborhood party.

If you live here long enough, you’ll notice that sports are woven into the fabric of the city. On fall Sundays, the entire city seems to turn orange and blue as fans head to Empower Field at Mile High to cheer on the Broncos. Baseball at Coors Field is more relaxed; great seats, skyline views, and summer evenings that beg for a cold drink.

The Nuggets and Avalanche pack Ball Arena, and even soccer has a strong following with the Rapids playing at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just enjoy the energy of game day, Denver makes it easy to get swept up in the excitement.

Denver makes it easy for families to fill their calendars with activities that appeal to both kids and adults. The Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science are perennial favorites, offering hands-on learning, special exhibits, and plenty of space for kids to explore. Summers bring another layer of excitement with Elitch Gardens and Water World, the downtown amusement and water park that’s been entertaining Denver families for generations. Year-round, the Downtown Aquarium draws visitors with interactive exhibits, a restaurant surrounded by giant tanks, and even the chance to feed stingrays.

On weekends, farmers markets pop up across the metro, turning grocery runs into family outings. Parents browse local produce and baked goods while kids enjoy live music, food trucks, and open spaces to play. Taken together, these experiences reflect what family life in Denver is all about: active, social, and seamlessly connected to both the city and the outdoors.

What makes Denver special isn’t just the individual attractions; it’s how they come together to create a lifestyle that feels balanced. You can work downtown, walk to a brewery after hours, spend your Saturday on a trail, and catch a concert on Sunday night. The variety of things to do in Denver means there’s always something new to explore, but it also means you’ll quickly find a rhythm that feels like home.

From Red Rocks concerts to Wash Park picnics, Denver’s energy isn’t just for visitors; it’s part of everyday life for residents. If you’re ready to explore neighborhoods that put you close to Denver’s best attractions, The Denver Group can help. With deep local knowledge and a personal approach, they’ll guide you to a home that matches your lifestyle, so you can start enjoying everything the city has to offer. Reach out now to get started.