5-Day Denver Itinerary: Family Sightseeing & Shopping For Locals
Denver, Colorado
5 days
About Denver, Colorado
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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Gardens, Shopping, and Ghosts in Cherry Creek and LoDo
Morning
Begin your day at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Explore the various gardens, including the Japanese Garden and the Tropical Rainforest.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant in the Cherry Creek neighborhood, known for its upscale dining options.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon shopping at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, home to over 160 stores, including high-end retailers.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) district, known for its historic architecture and vibrant dining scene.
Evening
Take a family-friendly ghost tour in the LoDo district, exploring some of Denver's most haunted locations.
Day 3
Art, History, and Performances in the Civic Center and Golden Triangle
Morning
Start your day at the Denver Art Museum, home to a vast collection of art from around the world.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in a restaurant in the Golden Triangle Creative District, known for its artsy vibe and eclectic dining options.
Afternoon
Visit the History Colorado Center in the afternoon. The museum offers interactive exhibits that tell the story of Colorado's history.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant in the Uptown neighborhood, known for its trendy eateries.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Check their schedule for family-friendly performances.
Day 4
Miniatures, Books, and Art in City Park West and RiNo
Morning
Begin your day at the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys. The museum features a collection of over 20,000 objects.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant in the Highlands neighborhood, known for its vibrant dining scene.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Tattered Cover Book Store, one of the largest independent bookstores in the U.S.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the RiNo (River North Art District) neighborhood, known for its innovative culinary scene.
Evening
Take a family-friendly art tour in the RiNo district, known for its colorful street art and murals.
Day 5
Children's Fun, Aquarium Visit, and Union Station in Central Platte Valley and Downtown
Morning
Start your day at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. The museum offers interactive exhibits designed for kids of all ages.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in a restaurant in the Larimer Square neighborhood, known for its historic charm and diverse dining options.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Downtown Aquarium. The aquarium features over 500 species of animals and an interactive Stingray Reef touch tank.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant in the Union Station neighborhood, known for its bustling dining scene.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Denver Union Station. The historic train station offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Attractions in Itinerary (14)
1Denver Zoo
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.
2Denver Museum of Nature & Science
A museum that offers a wide range of exhibits, from dinosaurs to space exploration.
316th Street Mall
A mile-long pedestrian promenade in the heart of Denver, filled with shopping, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
4Denver Botanic Gardens
A 23-acre park filled with themed gardens, a tropical rainforest, and a sunken amphitheater that hosts summer concert series.
5Denver Art Museum
One of the largest art museums in the West, featuring a vast collection of American Indian Art.
6History Colorado Center
A museum that offers exhibits and programs about the history of Colorado.
7Denver Center for the Performing Arts
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.
8Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys
The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys is a unique cultural institution that houses an extensive collection of miniatures, dolls, and toys from various periods and cultures.
9Tattered Cover Book Store
Tattered Cover Book Store is a Denver institution, known for its vast selection of books, cozy atmosphere, and excellent customer service.
10Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
The Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is a dynamic, interactive space where children can explore, learn, and play.
11Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is a family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of marine and freshwater species, interactive exhibits, and a restaurant.
12Denver Union Station
Denver Union Station is a historic landmark that serves as a transportation hub and a destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
13LoDo Ghost Tour
The LoDo Ghost Tour is a popular choice for those interested in the supernatural. It takes you through Denver's oldest and most haunted neighborhood, LoDo.
14RiNo Art Tour
The RiNo Art Tour takes you through Denver's River North Art District, showcasing the area's vibrant street art and local galleries.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Rocky Mountain Oysters
A unique delicacy in Denver, these are actually deep-fried bull testicles, often served with a side of cocktail sauce.
Colorado Green Chili
A spicy stew made with pork, tomatoes, and green chilies. It's a staple in Denver and can be found in many local restaurants.
Denver Omelette
A hearty breakfast dish made with ham, onions, bell peppers, and cheese. It's named after the city itself.
Bison Steak
Bison is a lean and flavorful meat that's popular in Denver. It's often grilled and served as a steak.
Palisade Peaches
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.
Colorado Lamb
Colorado is known for its high-quality lamb, which is often roasted or grilled and served with a variety of sides.
Elk Sausage
Elk is a common game meat in Colorado, and it's often made into a flavorful sausage.
Trout
Trout is a popular fish in Colorado, often caught fresh from local rivers and lakes. It's typically grilled or pan-fried.
Colorado Craft Beer
Denver is known for its thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a wide range of styles.
Colorado Whiskey
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.
Chile Relleno
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.
Colorado Wine
Colorado's high altitude vineyards produce a variety of wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Denver, Colorado is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and city parks are in full bloom. This is also the peak season for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping. However, if you're interested in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, the best time to visit would be from December to March. Denver also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, so it might be worth checking those out when planning your trip.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Light Rail
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.
Bus
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
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.
B-cycle
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.
Car Rental
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.
Taxi
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.
Pedestrian
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.
Scooters
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
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.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Denver, Colorado as a first time visitor
1
Denver is known as the 'Mile High City' because it is exactly one mile (5,280 feet or 1.6 kilometers) above sea level.
2
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).
3
Denver is very sunny, boasting over 300 days of sunshine a year, more than San Diego or Miami Beach.
4
The city is very dry, so it's important to stay hydrated, especially because the altitude can exacerbate the effects of dehydration.
5
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.
6
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.
7
Denver is a very bike-friendly city, with numerous bike rental stations and dedicated bike lanes.
8
The city is a foodie paradise, with a diverse food scene that includes everything from food trucks to high-end restaurants.
9
Denver has a thriving craft beer scene, with more than 100 breweries in the metro area.
10
The city is also known for its love of the arts, with a vibrant arts scene that includes numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.
11
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).
12
The city is very environmentally conscious, with numerous parks, bike lanes, and recycling programs.
13
Denver is located near the Rocky Mountains, making it a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
14
The city has a high cost of living compared to the national average, so budget accordingly.
15
Denver's population is very diverse, with a large Hispanic community and a growing number of Asian and African American residents.
16
The city is very casual, so there's no need to pack formal wear unless you plan on attending a special event.
17
Denver is in the Mountain Time Zone and does observe Daylight Saving Time.
18
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.
19
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.
20
The city has a strong commitment to accessibility, with many wheelchair-accessible attractions and accommodations.
Packing List
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing for layering
Warm jacket or sweater
Rain jacket or umbrella
Swimsuit (for hotel pool)
Socks and underwear
Sleepwear
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Lip balm
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Valid ID or passport
Flight tickets or e-tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Car rental documents (if applicable)
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash (in local currency)
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones or earbuds
Camera and charger
Laptop or tablet (if necessary) and charger
Travel adapter (if necessary)
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel guide and map
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Hand sanitizer
Tissues or wet wipes
Weather Conditions
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.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 7° / -9° | January is Denver's coldest month, with frequent snowfall and chilly temperatures. Dress warmly and enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. |
February | 11° / -8° | 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 | 13° / -5° | March brings warmer temperatures and less snowfall. It's a transitional month, with winter sports still available and spring activities beginning. |
April | 17° / -1° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. |
May | 24° / 4° | May marks the beginning of summer with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for outdoor adventures and exploring the city. |
June | 29° / 9° | June is a hot month with long, sunny days. It's an excellent time for water activities, picnics, and enjoying Denver's parks. |
July | 32° / 12° | 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 | 31° / 11° | 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 | 27° / 7° | 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 | 21° / 1° | October is a crisp, cool month with beautiful fall colors. It's a great time for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying Denver's breweries. |
November | 13° / -3° | 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 | 7° / -7° | December is a cold, snowy month, perfect for enjoying winter sports and holiday festivities. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter wonderland. |
Did you know?
Places near by Denver, Colorado
Boulder
Known for its outdoor activities and vibrant arts scene, Boulder is home to the University of Colorado.
Golden
Historic town known for Coors Brewery and the Colorado School of Mines.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Famous national park offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning mountain views.
Colorado Springs
Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Fort Collins
Known for Colorado State University and a thriving craft beer scene.
Cheyenne
The capital of Wyoming, offering a rich history of the American West.
Vail
Famous mountain town known for world-class skiing.
Black Hawk
Known for its casinos and historic downtown.
Castle Rock
Famous for its outlet shopping and the namesake rock formation.
Pueblo
Known for the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum.
