A Weekend in Denver, Colorado
A Weekend in Denver, Colorado
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
Available for hire
Welcome to the Mile High City, where urban city goers meets mountain adventurers. Denver is full of unique experiences for all visitors to enjoy. This guide includes tons of options to mix and match to build your perfect weekend exploring the town. Our recommendations are mainly geared toward adults with a few good options for families as well.
Over 40 recommendations are included in this guide:
- Where to Stay
- Things to do in Downtown
- Where to Eat & Drink in Denver
- Day Trip Options a Short Drive from Denver
Updated ago
3
Share
Where to Stay
Central Denver offers a great spot to stay where you are just a short walk or drive from so many of the local offerings in the surrounding area. Other great areas to stay in are the LoDo neighborhood and LoHi neighborhood.
the Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
@WeekendPostcards
A unique place to stay where every floor has a different theme. Staff members are super kind and helpful. Parking is available for a fee ($45 a night as of early Dec. 2023).
Add to
Details
Things to Do - Downtown Denver
Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station
@WeekendPostcards
An eclectic, unusual and interactive experience where guests can immerse themselves into the art and get hands on with everything around them.
Add to
Details
Denver Union Station
@WeekendPostcards
A bustling place for travel via train and many small local businesses are located inside the station here.
Add to
Details
Ball Arena
@WeekendPostcards
NHL Arena and special events hub for concerts, large shows, other sporting events and Disney on Ice! There is always something happening here to check out.
Add to
Details
Civic Center Park
@WeekendPostcards
We visited during holiday season when the park hosted the Christkant Market - A holiday German christmas market full of vendors, food, light displays and so much more.
During the year this park is home to many different events and a lovely place to sit and enjoy the sunshine. The state capital building is also located here.
Add to
Details
16th Street Mall
@WeekendPostcards
CURRENTLY the road is under construction but most businesses located along this road are still operating their normal business hours. There is a free shuttle bus that takes people up and down the street.
Add to
Details
Larimer Square
@WeekendPostcards
Wondrous square home to shopping, dining and special events. They have unique stores to make one of a kind purchases to take home with you from your trip. Full of fun all year round.
Add to
Details
Denver: Movement RiNo
@WeekendPostcards
Indoor bouldering gym located in the RiNo neighborhood. Welcoming climbing community here and a great activity for a cold or rainy day.
Add to
Details
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
@WeekendPostcards
Attend a concert or special event here. When not in use, this space is common for people to use as a natural workout space. You will always see people running the stairs or using the steps to workout. There is a music museum that we highly recommend checking out. Additionally there are multiple hiking trails that intertwine the venue space and surrounding area.
Add to
Details
Dairy Block
@WeekendPostcards
During the holiday season there is a hidden pop-up bar in the alley way next to the Dairy Block Space.
Add to
Details
Denver Botanic Gardens
@WeekendPostcards
Outdoor garden space perfect to enjoy on a sunny spring or summer day. Most plants are in bloom during this time but other parts can still be enjoyed at other times of the year.
Add to
Details
The Ten Penny Store
@WeekendPostcards
Super fun vintage clothing and records store. A fun way to spend an afternoon looking through the vintage racks and hopefully finding a new item to add to your personal collection.
Add to
Details
National Ballpark Museum
@WeekendPostcards
A great stop for baseball fans and those who appreciate the sport.
Add to
Details
Tarantula Billiard & Bar
@WeekendPostcards
A billiards hall and bar space but fun way to spend an evening with friends. It does get busy and their tables will fill up quickly so be sure to reserve your spot at the bar. They also offer a limited food menu to enjoy while playing a game.
Add to
Details
Denver Zoo
@WeekendPostcards
A well regarded zoo, it is a great way to spend a day with your kids learning about conservation and the animals who call the Denver Zoo home.
Add to
Details
International Church of Cannabis
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Where to Eat and Drink - Downtown Denver
While you can concur much of Denver in just a weekend, when it comes to quality food spots, you will have to make another trip back to try all of these bites.Â
Breakfast & Brunch Spots
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
@WeekendPostcards
My all time favorite breakfast place. My personal favorite item would be their pancakes and hash browns. Everything they serve is perfection. Space is designed to be very welcoming to all. Booze can be ordered for those of age too.
There is another location in Boulder, CO I would highly recommend as well.
Add to
Details
Morning Story - Denver
@WeekendPostcards
My local Denver friend loves this spot. Really good eats and drinks to start your morning
Add to
Details
Lunch & Dinner Spots
Marco's Coal Fired | Ballpark
@WeekendPostcards
We had the best pizzas here! Staff was super friendly and the place wasn't crazy busy so we were seated quickly. Food was served quickly too. For good vibes and good times, you must add this to your list.
Add to
Details
Toro
@WeekendPostcards
Toro offers Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner options! Higher end restaurant with Latin-American dishes mixed with Asian influences. The vibes and the food are immaculate here.
Add to
Details
My Neighbor Felix LoHi
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Perdida
@WeekendPostcards
Located just a bit south of central downtown, but this dining spot is not to be skipped. Delicious food and great staff!
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Afternoon & Evening Drinks
The Front Porch
@WeekendPostcards
Super cute bar space with fun daily deals. On wednesday's they do a coin flip toss to do a drink discount if you win. Often will do "Name of the Day" discounts as well. Staff is friendly, atmosphere is unique and feels like you are sitting on your neighbors front porch.
Add to
Details
Roosevelt
@WeekendPostcards
Highly regarded by many friends in Denver, the Roosevelt has a high end vibe making it a great place to spend your evening with friends.
Add to
Details
Our Mutual Friend Brewing
@WeekendPostcards
A great place for local brews but note they do not serve food directly at OMF. Their next door neighbor PIT FIEND BBQ is a great place to check out for your BBQ food needs while in the area.
Add to
Details
Postino Broadway
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Charlie's Denver
@WeekendPostcards
A fun place to get drinks and see a show on certain evenings. We did line-dancing here while in town. Very welcoming environment for all to enjoy.
Add to
Details
Death & Co Denver
@WeekendPostcards
One of those very instagramable spots with fun drinks. Great for a ladies night out
Add to
Details
Coffee & Desserts
Milkbox Ice Creamery
@WeekendPostcards
Treat yourself to delicious ice cream at the Milkbox located inside the Union Station.
Add to
Details
Method Coffee Roasters LoHi
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Pinwheel Coffee
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Three Saints Revival
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Ultreia
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Short Day Trips From Denver
Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and Pikes Peak
Colorado Springs
@WeekendPostcards
A top destination for the outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Home to a U.S. Olympic Training Site, it is a prime spot for athletes too.
Add to
Details
Pikes Peak
@WeekendPostcards
You can drive up to the top of Pikes Peak or take a train up (pending weather and time of year). The elevation is HIGH and altitude sickness/light headedness is possible. Bring water with you and take your hikes at the top easy.
A small gift shop, snack space and restrooms are available at the summit. In the winter, it is VERY cold and windy at the summit. Be sure to dress appropriately.
Reservations are required and tickets can be purchased online and are PER person. There is a discount rate per carload up to 5 passengers. Rates vary depending on the time of year. You will need to use LOW gear to descend the mountain.
National Park and State Park passes are not valid here.
Add to
Details
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
@WeekendPostcards
Unique and interesting to see while not being far from Colorado Springs. These cliff dwellings give a brief look into the past native members who lived on this land.
Add to
Details
The Incline
@WeekendPostcards
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED!
VERY INTENSE incline hike not for the faint of heart. Would NOT recommend for anyone with injuries, knee or ankle pain, or who may have a medical condition. This incline is STEAP. Bring plenty of water and a hot. Check weather ahead of time to come prepared. Adhear to all posted signs on site. Do not park in the lot for the other nearby trail or pikes peak train. They will tow you.
Add to
Details
Garden of the Gods
@WeekendPostcards
A wonderful, FREE park to explore. Hiking trails are relatively easy and many are paved through the park. You can also take a leisure drive through and marvel at the natural red rock color.
Add to
Details
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
@WeekendPostcards
Great for guests of all ages to enjoy the interactive museum. Not open everyday so always plan your trips ahead. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival.
Add to
Details
World Figure Skating Museum
@WeekendPostcards
An interesting and informational museum highlighting many of the top U.S. Figure Skating skaters as well as feature costumes from around the world, and medals from olympic champions. Set aside about 30-45 minutes to throughly enjoy all of the information and exhibitions on display.
U.S. Figure Skating members get FREE access. There is an entrance fee for NON USFS members.
Add to
Details
The Broadmoor Seven Falls
@WeekendPostcards
Only open seasonally, the Seven Falls provides a fun outdoor experience. This site includes a massive stair climb.
Add to
Details
Golden Bee
@WeekendPostcards
Located just outside the Broadmoor hotel, the Golden Bee has been around for awhile and is a favorite spot for an evening dinner and drinks.
Add to
Details
The Broadmoor World Arena
@WeekendPostcards
Home the the Broadmoor Skating Club, the World Arena is a huge venue and they host multiple concerts, special events and more each year. Check out their website to see what is coming up soon!
Add to
Details
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Garden of the Gods Market and Cafe
@WeekendPostcards
We stopped in for lunch after spending the morning at Pikes Peak and the food was delicious. A little more on the pricey side but well worth it. We went just before the lunch rush but it did take a little bit to be served our food. You may need to make reservations if going at a busy serving time.
Add to
Details
Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
If you'd like to expand your day trip from Denver into an overnight, here are some sleeping accommodations that are great in the area.Â
Estes Park
@WeekendPostcards
Cute little mountain town located just outside the gates of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is the perfect getaway destination for relaxing, and enjoying the nature around you. I've visited about 5 times now and I love coming back each time.
Add to
Details
WorldMark Estes Park
@WeekendPostcards
Lovely little cabins to stay in for both short and long term. Good for groups of people. Located along a river for great scenery, there are other top quality amenities like a pool and playground for kids to enjoy.
Add to
Details
Stanley Hotel
@WeekendPostcards
Both a hotel and a historical point of interest in Estes Park. It inspired part of the movie The Shining.
Add to
Details
Rocky Mountain National Park
@WeekendPostcards
Great national park to visit anytime of year. Always check weather reports ahead of your trip. Many roads are closed during the winter season and won't open until the following May. In the summer, entrance reservations may be required. Check out all regulations for your trip at the National Park service website and recreation.gov
Add to
Details
Coffee on the Rocks
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
THE BARREL
@WeekendPostcards
Beer hall that does NOT have food inside. A taco food truck is on-site in the outdoor seating area. Patrons are also welcome to order outside food and bring it in. They often host fun game nights like Bingo and Cornhole for free. Super fun experience.
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Golden, Colorado
Lookout Mountain Park
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Loved Denver and ready to plan your next trip? Check out some of our other guides:
Welcome to the Windy City, located along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan. Chicago is a hustling and bustling city full of over 70 unique & charming neighborhoods, amazing food and iconic landmarks. Chicago has so much to offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Fun fact: Chicago is NOT the capital of Illinois, even though it is the most well known city in Illinois (We see you Springfield).
This guide includes everything from popular tourist destinations to local stops by neighborhood and tons of restaurants to try. While this is not an all inclusive list of what to do in Chicago, but its a pretty good way to start with over 150 options and tons of personal favorites! Get ready to plan your weekend of fun in Chicago depending on what neighborhood you're located in. Get ready to put on your walking shoes, as you are sure to get plenty of steps in walking around the city. Immerse yourself in the melting pot of cultures.
If you're searching for a specific day-to-day itinerary for Chicago, set up a call and I will help craft the perfect trip based on your needs. Even if you only have a day (which only would begin to scratch the surface) it is absolutely worth it to make a trip to downtown Chicago.
Car-free • Family • Female Solo • Groups • LGBTQ+ • Couples • Digital Nomads • Business • Plus Size • Art • Coffee • Foodie • People & Culture • Shopping
$5.00
Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is known as the cultural and entertainment center of the upcountry. Located about halfway between Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC, this makes Greenville the perfect place to escape to enjoy time away from the metropolis, just steps from nature. Sprinkled with its southern charm, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Greenville.
Included in this guide you will find:
- How to get there & get around town
- Places to stay
- Where to eat
- Things to do, see, & shopping
- Family friendly activities
- A few day trip options from Greenville
Female Solo • Groups • Digital Nomads • Family • Couples • Shopping • Slow Travel • Adventure • Coffee • Foodie • Road Trip
Free
What better way to experience a city, than to be guided by a local resident. Join us as we dive into Berlin to experience street art, architecture and a world of history. The city offers expansive options making it easy to extend your trip for longer than just a weekend.
This ultimate Berlin city guide includes:
- Transportation options around Berlin
- Famous spots to see
- Things to do
- Where to eat
- Special Events
- Trip Inspiration
We had the unique experience to explore town while Germany is hosting the 2024 European Soccer Championship. A few spots have been closed due to their fan zone that would normally be open during the year. This has made it a fun way to experience the people and culture of Germany.
Berlin is well known for their eclectic and lively nightlife scene. While this is not something we did much with, it makes for a great way to spend the evening for those 18 and older.
Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • Plus Size • Female Solo • Groups • Adventure • Architecture • Slow Travel • History • People & Culture
Free
* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
Available for hire
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:đź“ŤLouisiana, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Lakeland, FL & Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
----------
Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon, visit all 50 U.S. states, and someday be on the Amazing Race with my sister.
—
Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
Send A Tip
Support Nikki | Weekend Postcards’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Explore related destinations
Read more about places in this guide
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Nikki | Weekend Postcards 2024 • Help • Privacy • Terms • Copyright • Become a Seller • Seller Academy • About • Careers • Blog • Explore Places