A 23-acre park filled with themed gardens, a tropical rainforest, and a sunken amphitheater that hosts summer concert series.

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers. Spread over 23 acres, the park features a conservatory, a variety of themed gardens, and a sunken amphitheater. The gardens are home to a diverse range of plants, including many rare and endangered species. The conservatory houses tropical and subtropical species. /n The sunken amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts during the summer, providing a unique setting for music and performance art. The gardens also host regular events, including art exhibitions, plant sales, and educational programs. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Denver Botanic Gardens has something to offer.

A 23-acre park featuring a conservatory, a variety of themed gardens and a sunken amphitheater.

One of the largest art museums in the West, featuring a vast collection of American Indian Art.

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago. It is renowned for its collection of American Indian Art, which is one of the most comprehensive in the world. The museum also houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, European and American painting and sculpture, and a variety of rotating special exhibitions. /n The museum's architecture is a work of art in itself, with its angular, titanium-clad structure standing as a modern icon in Denver's skyline. Inside, the museum's vast collection spans every continent and spans thousands of years, providing visitors with a unique look into the world's diverse cultures and artistic traditions. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Denver Art Museum offers a rich, immersive experience.

One of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago, known for its collection of American Indian Art.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a large performing arts complex in Denver, Colorado. It offers a variety of shows and performances, including Broadway tours, local productions, and more.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a large performing arts complex in Denver, Colorado. It offers a variety of shows and performances, including Broadway tours, local productions, and more. The center is home to several resident companies, including the Denver Center Theatre Company and the Denver Center Attractions. /n The center also offers educational programs and workshops for aspiring artists and performers. With its diverse lineup of performances and its commitment to the arts, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural hub in Denver.

A large performing arts complex offering a variety of shows and performances.

One of the most popular zoos in the United States, Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including rare amur leopards, okapi, black rhinoceros, elephants, vampire bats, orangutan, and Komodo dragons.

The Denver Zoo is a world-class zoo located in City Park of Denver. Spread over 80 acres, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals representing 600 species. From African elephants to Asian rhinos, the zoo offers a chance to see a wide range of animals from around the world. /n The zoo is divided into several themed areas, including Predator Ridge, Tropical Discovery, and Primate Panorama. Each area is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it a fun and informative destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or looking for a fun family outing, the Denver Zoo is a must-visit.

An 80-acre zoo located in City Park of Denver, home to over 4,000 animals representing 600 species.

A museum that offers a wide range of exhibits, from dinosaurs to space exploration.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a leading resource for informal science education in the Rocky Mountain region. Located in City Park of Denver, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits covering various scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology, and space science. /n The museum's exhibits are interactive, making learning fun and engaging for visitors of all ages. The museum also houses an IMAX theater and a planetarium, offering immersive experiences that transport visitors to different worlds. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just curious about the world around you, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science offers a wealth of knowledge and fun.

A museum in City Park of Denver that provides natural history and science exhibits.

The Denver Christkindl Market is a traditional German Christmas market located in downtown Denver. It features vendors selling a variety of crafts, food, and drinks, offering a unique holiday shopping and dining experience.

The Denver Christkindl Market is a beloved holiday tradition in Denver, Colorado. Every year, the market brings a taste of old-world Germany to downtown Denver, with vendors selling a variety of traditional crafts, food, and drinks. The market is set up like a traditional German Christmas market, with wooden huts decorated with festive lights and garlands. /n Visitors can browse the market's wide selection of unique gifts, from handcrafted ornaments and jewelry to traditional German food and drink. The market also features live music and entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere. Whether you're looking for the perfect holiday gift, a delicious treat, or just a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season, the Denver Christkindl Market has something for everyone.

A traditional German Christmas market in downtown Denver. Features vendors selling crafts, food, and drinks.

The Colorado State Capitol is a historic building in Denver, Colorado. It houses the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

The Colorado State Capitol is a historic building in Denver, Colorado. It houses the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. The building is made of Colorado white granite, and its distinctive gold dome consists of real gold leaf, commemorating the Colorado Gold Rush. /n The building is open to the public for tours, offering a glimpse into the state's legislative process and its history. The capitol's steps are also known for marking exactly one mile above sea level.

Historic building housing the Colorado General Assembly.

A museum that offers exhibits and programs about the history of Colorado.

The History Colorado Center is a state-of-the-art museum located in Denver. It showcases Colorado's rich history and culture through a variety of interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the state's early Native American inhabitants to its role in the Gold Rush and beyond. /n In addition to its exhibits, the History Colorado Center also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include lectures, workshops, and guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Colorado's history. With its engaging exhibits and educational programs, the History Colorado Center is a must-visit destination for history buffs visiting Denver.

A state-of-the-art museum showcasing Colorado's rich history and culture.

The Denver Pavilions' Holiday Carousel is a popular attraction during the holiday season. It offers a variety of holiday-themed rides and entertainment for all ages.

The Denver Pavilions' Holiday Carousel is a must-visit attraction during the holiday season. It offers a variety of holiday-themed rides and entertainment for all ages. The carousel is beautifully decorated with festive lights and ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates both children and adults. /n In addition to the carousel rides, there are also various entertainment options available. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, meet Santa Claus, and participate in holiday crafts. The Denver Pavilions' Holiday Carousel is not just a ride, but a complete holiday experience that brings joy and cheer to everyone.

A festive attraction offering holiday-themed rides and entertainment.

The Denver Mint is a branch of the United States Mint that produces coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce.

The Denver Mint is a branch of the United States Mint that produces coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce. The Denver Mint is one of the largest and busiest mints in the world, and it offers tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the coin production process. /n The tours are free, but they are popular and space is limited, so it's recommended to reserve a spot in advance. The Denver Mint is a fascinating place to learn about the history of money and the role of the mint in the U.S. economy.

One of the U.S. Mint facilities, offering tours to the public.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is a leading venue for contemporary art exhibitions. It also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is a leading venue for contemporary art exhibitions. It showcases a wide range of artworks from local, national, and international artists. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and multimedia works. /n In addition to the exhibitions, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include guided tours, workshops, lectures, and special events. The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is not just a place to see art, but also a place to learn about and engage with contemporary art.

A leading venue for contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs.

The Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is a popular holiday event in Denver, offering a magical, outdoor light display. It's a part of the Denver Botanic Gardens, providing a unique blend of nature and festive cheer.

The Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is a must-visit holiday attraction in Denver, Colorado. As part of the Denver Botanic Gardens, Chatfield Farms transforms into a winter wonderland each year, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. /n The trail winds through the farm, illuminating the various gardens and natural areas. Visitors can enjoy the spectacle on foot or from the comfort of a warm, open-air wagon. Along the way, there are opportunities to warm up by a fire, enjoy hot chocolate, and even meet Santa Claus. The event typically runs from late November through early January, making it a perfect addition to any holiday itinerary. /n In addition to the light display, Chatfield Farms is home to a variety of plants and wildlife. The farm is a conservation site, dedicated to preserving Colorado's native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the various gardens, including a lavender garden, a deer-resistant garden, and a butterfly house. There's also a working farm, complete with farm animals and a historic homestead. Whether you're a nature lover, a garden enthusiast, or simply looking for a festive outing, the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is a Denver highlight not to be missed.

A festive, outdoor light display at Denver Botanic Gardens' Chatfield Farms during the holiday season.

A unique outdoor concert venue set amongst stunning red rock formations.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a natural wonder and entertainment venue in Denver. It's known for its stunning red rock formations and its amphitheater, which hosts concerts and other events. /n The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails, and the amphitheater is a popular venue for concerts, with a variety of artists performing there throughout the year. The park also offers stunning views of the Denver skyline and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for photography and sightseeing.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a natural wonder and entertainment venue in Denver.

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is a museum dedicated to the life and times of Buffalo Bill. It features a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to his life and career.

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is a museum dedicated to the life and times of Buffalo Bill, one of the most famous figures of the American West. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to his life and career, including personal belongings, photographs, and memorabilia. /n The museum is located on the site of Buffalo Bill's grave, offering visitors a chance to pay their respects to this iconic figure. In addition to the museum, the site also features a gift shop and a picnic area with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave offers a fascinating insight into the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in American history.

A museum dedicated to the life and times of Buffalo Bill.

The Georgetown Christmas Market is a traditional European-style Christmas market. It features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, food, and holiday decorations.

The Georgetown Christmas Market is a traditional European-style Christmas market located in the historic town of Georgetown. The market features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, food, and holiday decorations. Visitors can find unique gifts, sample delicious food, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. /n The market is set up in the town's charming downtown area, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets providing a picturesque backdrop. In addition to shopping, the market also offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits from Santa Claus. The Georgetown Christmas Market is a wonderful place to celebrate the holiday season and experience a bit of European tradition in the heart of Colorado.

A traditional European-style Christmas market in Georgetown.

Discover Denver, Colorado, the "Mile High City" nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Denver offers a blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Explore the Denver Art Museum, catch a game at Coors Field, or stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Indulge in world-class dining and shopping in Larimer Square. For nature lovers, the city is a gateway to some of the world's best skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Don't miss the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a natural rock formation turned concert venue. Denver's craft beer culture is a must-experience, with numerous local breweries offering tours and tastings. With 300 days of sunshine, Denver is an exciting year-round destination.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Art Museum

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Start your day with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street. Enjoy the winter-themed displays and the Blossoms of Light event, a holiday lights extravaganza that illuminates the gardens with thousands of LED lights.

Enjoy a hearty lunch in one of the restaurants in the Cherry Creek North district, known for its diverse culinary scene.

After lunch, head to the Denver Art Museum. Don't miss the Western American Art collection and the contemporary art exhibits.

Have dinner in the Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, which offers a variety of dining options.

End your day by attending a performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of shows, including holiday-themed performances.

Exploring Denver's Gardens, Art, and Performing Arts

Denver Zoo

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Christkindl Market

Begin your day at the Denver Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and enjoy the Zoo Lights event, a holiday tradition featuring illuminated animal sculptures.

Have lunch in the City Park neighborhood, which has a variety of dining options.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which features exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration.

Enjoy dinner in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, known for its eclectic dining scene.

End your day with a visit to the Denver Christkindl Market, a traditional German Christmas market with vendors selling crafts, food, and holiday gifts.

A Day at the Zoo, Museum, and Christmas Market

Colorado State Capitol

History Colorado Center

Denver Pavilions' Holiday Carousel

Start your day with a visit to the Colorado State Capitol, where you can take a tour of the building and enjoy panoramic views of Denver and the Rocky Mountains from the dome.

Have lunch in the Golden Triangle Creative District, which offers a variety of dining options.

Spend your afternoon at the History Colorado Center, where you can learn about the state's history through interactive exhibits.

Enjoy dinner in the Uptown neighborhood, known for its diverse culinary scene.

End your day with a visit to the Denver Pavilions' Holiday Carousel, a festive attraction that offers rides and holiday music.

Discovering Colorado's History and Holiday Carousel

Denver Mint

Museum of Contemporary Art Denver

Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms

Begin your day at the Denver Mint, where you can take a tour and learn about the coin production process.

Have lunch in the Larimer Square district, which offers a variety of dining options.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, which features rotating exhibits of contemporary art.

Enjoy dinner in the Highlands neighborhood, known for its innovative dining scene.

End your day with a visit to the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms, a holiday lights display set in the beautiful surroundings of the Denver Botanic Gardens' Chatfield Farms.

Mint Visit, Contemporary Art, and Holiday Lights

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Georgetown Christmas Market

Start your day with a visit to the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and take a tour of the famous concert venue.

Have lunch in the Morrison town, which offers a variety of dining options.

Spend your afternoon at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where you can learn about the life and legacy of the famous Wild West showman.

Enjoy dinner in the Golden town, known for its historic charm and diverse dining scene.

End your trip with a visit to the Georgetown Christmas Market, a traditional holiday market set in the historic town of Georgetown.

Red Rocks, Wild West History, and Christmas Market

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note: the 50 united states cover six time zones

UTC-5

Denver's RTD Light Rail is a convenient way to travel around the city. It connects downtown Denver with its outlying areas and suburbs. The Light Rail operates on several lines, each designated by a different color. It's a great option for avoiding traffic and parking hassles.

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) also operates an extensive bus network that covers Denver and its surrounding areas. Buses run regularly and cover many routes that the Light Rail doesn't. It's a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to get around the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Denver. These services are convenient for direct trips and can be cheaper than taxis, especially if you're traveling with a group. They can be hailed from anywhere using a smartphone app.

Denver's citywide bike-sharing program, B-cycle, is a great way to get around if you prefer a more active mode of transportation. There are numerous B-cycle stations around the city where you can pick up or drop off a bike.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to visit places outside of Denver or if you prefer to have your own vehicle. Most major car rental companies have locations at Denver International Airport and around the city.

Taxis are readily available in Denver, especially in the downtown area. They can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked in advance. It's a convenient option, but can be more expensive than other methods.

Denver is a very walkable city, especially in areas like downtown, Cherry Creek, and the Highlands. There are plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city and take in the sights.

Electric scooters are a fun and quick way to get around Denver. Companies like Lime and Bird have scooters available for rent throughout the city. You can rent one using a smartphone app.

Car sharing services like Car2Go and Zipcar are available in Denver. These services allow you to rent a car for a few hours or a whole day, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

A unique delicacy in Denver, these are actually deep-fried bull testicles, often served with a side of cocktail sauce.

Rocky Mountain Oysters

A spicy stew made with pork, tomatoes, and green chilies. It's a staple in Denver and can be found in many local restaurants.

Colorado Green Chili

A hearty breakfast dish made with ham, onions, bell peppers, and cheese. It's named after the city itself.

Denver Omelette

Bison is a lean and flavorful meat that's popular in Denver. It's often grilled and served as a steak.

Bison Steak

These juicy, sweet peaches are grown in Palisade, a town on the Western Slope of Colorado. They're often used in desserts or eaten fresh.

Palisade Peaches

Colorado is known for its high-quality lamb, which is often roasted or grilled and served with a variety of sides.

Colorado Lamb

Elk is a common game meat in Colorado, and it's often made into a flavorful sausage.

Elk Sausage

Trout is a popular fish in Colorado, often caught fresh from local rivers and lakes. It's typically grilled or pan-fried.

Trout

Denver is known for its thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a wide range of styles.

Colorado Craft Beer

Colorado's high altitude and pure mountain water make it an ideal place for whiskey distillation. There are several local distilleries producing high-quality whiskey.

Colorado Whiskey

A popular dish in Denver's Mexican restaurants, it's a large chili pepper stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried, and served with tomato sauce.

Chile Relleno

Colorado's high altitude vineyards produce a variety of wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling.

Colorado Wine

New Year's Day

New Year's Day (substitute)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day (substitute)

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

Known for its outdoor activities and vibrant arts scene, Boulder is home to the University of Colorado.

Boulder

Historic town known for Coors Brewery and the Colorado School of Mines.

Golden

Famous national park offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning mountain views.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Colorado Springs

Known for Colorado State University and a thriving craft beer scene.

Fort Collins

The capital of Wyoming, offering a rich history of the American West.

Cheyenne

Famous mountain town known for world-class skiing.

Vail

Known for its casinos and historic downtown.

Black Hawk

Famous for its outlet shopping and the namesake rock formation.

Castle Rock

Known for the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum.

Pueblo

Aspen

Grand Junction

Cherry Creek Shopping and Dining District

Denver is known as the 'Mile High City' because it is exactly one mile (5,280 feet or 1.6 kilometers) above sea level.

The city has a semi-arid, four-season climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average high temperature in summer is around 88°F (31°C), while in winter it's around 45°F (7°C).

Denver is very sunny, boasting over 300 days of sunshine a year, more than San Diego or Miami Beach.

The city is very dry, so it's important to stay hydrated, especially because the altitude can exacerbate the effects of dehydration.

Due to the high altitude, alcohol can have a stronger effect. It's recommended to drink in moderation until you know how your body reacts.

Denver is a very walkable city, with a compact downtown area. However, if you prefer, the city also has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and light rail.

Denver is a very bike-friendly city, with numerous bike rental stations and dedicated bike lanes.

The city is a foodie paradise, with a diverse food scene that includes everything from food trucks to high-end restaurants.

Denver has a thriving craft beer scene, with more than 100 breweries in the metro area.

The city is also known for its love of the arts, with a vibrant arts scene that includes numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Denver is a sports-loving city, home to four major sports teams: the Denver Broncos (NFL), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Denver Nuggets (NBA), and Colorado Avalanche (NHL).

The city is very environmentally conscious, with numerous parks, bike lanes, and recycling programs.

Denver is located near the Rocky Mountains, making it a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

The city has a high cost of living compared to the national average, so budget accordingly.

Denver's population is very diverse, with a large Hispanic community and a growing number of Asian and African American residents.

The city is very casual, so there's no need to pack formal wear unless you plan on attending a special event.

Denver is in the Mountain Time Zone and does observe Daylight Saving Time.

The city has a low crime rate compared to other major U.S. cities, but like any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Denver has a high altitude and it's common for visitors to experience some symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and shortness of breath. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

The city has a strong commitment to accessibility, with many wheelchair-accessible attractions and accommodations.

January is Denver's coldest month, with frequent snowfall and chilly temperatures. Dress warmly and enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but snowfall is still common. It's a great time for winter activities and exploring indoor attractions.

March brings warmer temperatures and less snowfall. It's a transitional month, with winter sports still available and spring activities beginning.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.

May marks the beginning of summer with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for outdoor adventures and exploring the city.

June is a hot month with long, sunny days. It's an excellent time for water activities, picnics, and enjoying Denver's parks.

July is the hottest month in Denver, with high temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's a great time for water sports, festivals, and outdoor concerts.

August is still hot but slightly cooler than July. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, visit the Rocky Mountains, and explore Denver's nightlife.

September brings cooler temperatures and the start of fall. It's a beautiful time to visit for leaf-peeping and hiking in the Rocky Mountains.

October is a crisp, cool month with beautiful fall colors. It's a great time for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying Denver's breweries.

November marks the start of winter with cooler temperatures and the first snowfalls. It's a good time for indoor activities and early winter sports.

December is a cold, snowy month, perfect for enjoying winter sports and holiday festivities. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter wonderland.

Denver, Colorado, also known as the "Mile High City," is known for its unpredictable weather patterns. It's not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day, so it's essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.

In general, Denver experiences a semi-arid, four-season climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city receives a lot of sunshine, averaging over 300 sunny days per year. However, it's also known for its sudden weather changes, so always check the forecast before heading out.

During the winter months (December to February), temperatures can range from 45°F (7°C) during the day to 18°F (-8°C) at night. Snowfall is common, but it usually melts quickly due to the frequent sunny days. If you're planning to visit during this time, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Snow boots are also a good idea, especially if you plan to venture into the mountains.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are transitional seasons in Denver, with temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 75°F (24°C). These seasons can bring anything from snow to warm, sunny days, so it's best to pack layers.

Summers (June to August) in Denver are warm but not overly hot, with average high temperatures around 85°F (29°C) and lows around 60°F (16°C). Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons, so pack a rain jacket or umbrella.

Regardless of the season, Denver's high altitude can lead to intense sun and rapid dehydration. Always carry a water bottle, apply sunscreen regularly, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Lastly, if you're planning to visit the mountains, be aware that weather conditions can be drastically different from those in the city. Temperatures can be much colder, and snow can fall at any time of the year. Always check the local forecast and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

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5-Day Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Denver, Colorado

About Denver, Colorado