It was a late afternoon a few weeks back and I was randomly checking skyscanner for cheap destinations. If you didn’t know the way that I decide on a destination is whatever city or country is cheapest at the moment (unless I really really wanna go or if there is an event I wanna go to) I ran across a $120 flight to Denver and impulsively bought the ticket while hearing my bank account cry out at the same time. Now, I don’t recommend to impulsively buy tickets but I just couldn’t pass up on this deal. I buy 97% of my plane tickets via Skyscanner and swear by their deals. Check them out, link below.

Compare prices on flights with Skyscanner

Once I bought the ticket it was time to do some research. When researching I tend to shy from bigger publications and stick to blogs, personal recommendations, and Instagram because bigger publications usually recycle the same 5 places everyone goes to *insert eye roll here*. Not going to lie, researching the Mile High City is a bit overwhelming because there is so much to do! I will definitely be back to do everything I didn’t get a chance to do the first time. Although, I think this time around I did a pretty good job at choosing some cool and unique things to do.  Keep reading to see the top 11 best things to do in Denver, Colorado:

1. Eat Breakfast At Snooze. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and sometimes the tastiest! I know drinking for breakfast is frowned upon but I couldn’t resist trying their “Bacon and Eggs” drink. This particular drink is made up of Bacon Infused Breckenridge Bourbon, House Sour, Frothed Egg White, Bitters & Bacon. Not going to lie, it is very unique tasting but good nonetheless. To eat, I got basic eggs, hash browns, and sausage which weren’t that great they were just okay. The real star of the show though was the pancake. I got the “Peanut Butter Cup” pancake which was hands down D E L I C I O U S. If I could go back I would have ordered the pancake flight which is what I would recommend you all to get.

   

   

   

   

2. Check Out Larimer Square. A lot of areas of Denver are older and very reminiscent of Europe. Larimer Square is the perfect example. This street is full of shops, restaurants, and bars that will run your pockets dry so come prepared!

   

   

3. Visit the Botanic Gardens. While the gardens aren’t free, the ticket that I bought cost about $12-13 bucks and it was worth it. The gardens have amazing exhibits, butterflies, and beautiful plants/flowers. There are two locations: York Street and Chatfield Farms. I went to the York Street location which is open from 9AM to 8PM (perfect for those who spent the day wandering out).

   

   

   

   

4. Red Rocks Amphitheater. Probably one of the more touristy spots that Denver has to offer, but I can see why. I heard that you should add “Seeing a concert at Red Rocks” to your bucket list and I have to agree. Located about 30-40 minutes out of Denver, If you’re not going to see a concert, thats fine too you are able to hike it, wander around, or even work out at the site. Oh, and it makes for a pretty awesome picture.

   

   

   

   

5. Avanti Food & Beverage. Located in the LoHi neighborhood, Avanti is the perfect spot for a city skyline view. Get you a cocktail, beer, and food from one of the vendors of your choice and your night will be pretty solid. I got the carne asada fries from “Borracho Taco” and they didn’t disappoint.

   

6. Paint Mines – Interpretive Park: MY FAVORITE PART OF THE TRIP. Not going to lie, this isn’t exactly Denver but it is SO worth the drive. Located about an hour and a half away from Denver, the scenery is to die for. You may or may not have to drive on an unpaved road for about 30 minutes before getting there but it’s super worth it. Arriving at the Paint Mines I didn’t really know what to expect, I mean photos can be deceiving online. Luckily, the mines exceeded my expectations and the pictures I had seen online. Honestly guys, if you have the chance just go here. Beware, it is a lot of walking so bring your walking shoes and a water bottle! Also, did I mention it’s F R E E?

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

7. Eat Tacos at Machete (wynkoop st location): These were a personal recommendation and I’m so happy I decided to go. If you know me you know Mexican food is my favorite type of food – I mean can you go wrong with tacos & burritos? The answer is NEVER. Walking in your greeted by over dozens of Tequila bottles and a friendly staff. I got three different tacos and they were: The Campechano, The Pollo Rostizado, and The Al Pastor. I thought I was going to have a favorite but they were all delicious. Although, if someone had to make me choose a favorite I would say The Pollo Rostizado. Also, you can’t forget a Margarita on the side with sugar on the rim.

   

   

   

8. Colorado State Capital: Visit the state capital and the surrounding civic center area for a breathe of fresh air. You’ll see people lounging around, food trucks, and the famous “One Mile Above Sea Level” on the steps.

   

   

   

9. Garden of the Gods: An hour outside of Denver but 200% worth it and also free. Garden of the Gods is a national natural landmark thats made up of red rock formations. The giant rock formations are both unbelievably beautiful but also breathtaking. Although the walk isn’t that bad for newbie hikers (you have over 10 trails to choose from) if you are short on time you can drive through the park and get the same jaw dropping experience.

   

   

   

   

   

10. Denver’s Big Blue Bear: Probably the most odd out of all the things. Denver’s Big Blue Bear is an art installation that is situated against the Colorado Convention Center. The artist Lawrence Argent wanted to make an installation that strayed far from Colorado stereotypes. What he came up with was a big blue bear that embodied the curiosity of those driving by the huge Convention Center. The bear also embodies life in Colorado – everyday life with nature at the tip of their fingertips. Can’t like the bear is really interesting and did I mention, huge?

    

    

11. Frosé at Los Chingones: Deemed one of the best rooftop bars in Denver, Los Chingones is located in Denver’s art district RiNo. I stopped by Los Chingones for a margarita (surprise) but was intrigued by their frosé and knew I had to give it a try. I’m not going to tell you how good it was because I ended up ordering 2 more just to give you a hint. I went in the day time but at night time you will get an awesome view of the neighborhood.

    

My ending thoughts are that I LOVE DENVER. Definitely one of my favorite trips in a while and a trip I wouldn’t mind making over and over again. If I did this much in 3 days can you imagine if I were to visit for a week or more? Thankful to have had experienced Denver and can’t wait to go back. If you have any questions about my trip, feel free to reach out.

Until next time!

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