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Denver isn’t always considered as a top travel destination, but it has so much to offer to meet the interests of almost everyone! I spent 3 days exploring the city and surrounding areas and still feel there was much more I could have seen. If you are visiting the mile-high city for a few days, use this 3-day Denver itinerary to really experience the city and surrounding areas to its fullest.
Denver Itinerary: Day 1
RiNo Art District
River North (RiNo) art district is a perfect way to start your visit to Denver to give you a taste of what makes the city unique. Start at Denver City Market, and roam the streets stopping at whatever street murals speak to you. The murals change often, so don’t expect to always find the same ones that you may see online. You can see some of my favorites below.
Tattered Bookstore
If you are a bibliophile or just looking for a new book to read, Tattered Bookstore is a great option to add to your Denver itinerary. You could spend hours wandering the aisles or sitting in a corner skimming a good read.
City Park
City Park is right across the street from Tattered Bookstore and is a good option to stroll around in nature. They also have street markets or food trucks out there from time to time, so be sure to check out their calendar here:
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver’s Botanic Gardens are one of the top-rated gardens in the U.S. Depending on how much you enjoy botanic gardens, you can spend anywhere from a couple hours to an entire day here. I am not usually one for botanic gardens, but I spent three hours strolling through the gardens without getting bored.
Stanley Marketplace
Stanley Marketplace is foodie’s heaven with options of all sorts to choose from. Two of my favorite stops in the market were Chi Lin and Sweet Cow.
Art Exhibit
When I visited Denver, we went to the Van Gogh Immersive Exhibit held in Stanley Marketplace. While this was a temporary exhibition, other options can often be found for art exhibits around the city.
Larimer Square
A Denver itinerary wouldn’t be complete without Larimer Square, a lively outdoor street in downtown Denver. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. One of my favorite stops is Garage Sale Vintage; it’s a thrift store with a bar in it. So much fun! Larimer Square is also home to art galleries, live music performances, and theatrical productions. It makes it the perfect place to end your first day in Denver.
Denver Itinerary: Day 2
Rocky Mountain National Park
This may be a Denver itinerary, but day 2 will take you a little outside the city. I recommend dedicating most of your second day to experiencing nature at Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is full of breathtaking views, incredible wildlife, and plenty of activities. When planning your visit, check out the park’s website for up-to-date information on hours, fees, and if you need reservations (I did when I visited in 2021).
Downtown Boulder
After a full day of exploring the park, be sure stop in downtown Boulder on your way back to Denver. There’s some neat shops, and great restaurants making it the perfect place to spend some time in the evening. If you like Italian, Pasta Jays is a great choice for dinner. Don’t miss the spinach and artichoke appetizer… it’s to die for.
Day 3:
Antique shopping on South Broadway St.
Do you like antique shopping? Or are like me and like window shopping at antique stores? Make your way over to South Broadway St. to start your third day in Denver. There are plenty of unique antique stores to look at. Make sure not to miss the Odditorium; it’s one of the most interesting stores I’ve seen.
Lunch at Denver Biscuit Co. (South Broadway location)
Denver Biscuit Co. is like an institution and is the perfect brunch spot. Their South Broadway location is close to the antique stores and has the most delicious biscuit sandwiches. Their food is a great combination of savory and cheesy goodness. I recommend it if you’re looking for something delicious and filling to give you energy for the day.
International Church of Cannabis
Yes, I am recommending a church of cannabis. No, I am not encouraging you to do drugs. The International Church of Cannabis is one of Denver’s top tourist attractions, even for those who don’t partake in smoking of marijuana. The real draw to this unconventional church is the artwork inside the church and the approximately 20-minute light show. The stellar show goes on display every hour (at 20 past the hour). The Beyond Guided Mediation and Laser Light Experience is open every day of the week, and tickets are $25 (discounts are available for students and children). If you arrive at the church early, there are board games, video games, and even skee ball to keep you entertained while you wait! Not only is the meditation and light show interesting, but it is also fascinating learning about the story and beliefs behind the church.
Retrograde Speakeasy
I’ve heard of speakeasies and always wanted to go to one, so Denver was my chance. Retrograde was a perfect first experience for a speakeasy. You can find the speakeasy behind an ice cream shop called Frozen Matter. Once you enter the ice cream shop, make your way to the freezer door to the back left of the ice cream case. To the left of the door, you will see a switch. Flip the switch to get the light to turn on, and wait until someone comes from the inside to open the door and let you in.
Once inside, you’ll feel like you stepped into another world. The ambiance makes it feel like a party, and the cocktails will help you feel like it too.
Happy camper for pizza
Good pizza and good vibes, what more can you ask for? Happy Camper is a crowd favorite due to it’s ambiance and delicious food. Happy Camper is MY favorite due to the ambiance, delicious food, AND pitchers of margaritas!
William and Graham Speakeasy
William and Graham is a more upscale speakeasy that makes you feel like you stepped back in time to the Prohibition. To find the speakeasy, all you have to do is go to the William and Graham bookstore. Unlike other hidden speakeasies, William and Graham doesn’t have an operational business in the front. You simply walk into the building where you will come to a small entry room with bookshelves lines with books. It mimics a bookstore front but is not operational. The person behind the counter will welcome you and pull on of the bookshelves open revealing the door to the bar.
Aside from the delicious cocktails, be sure to order their ice cream and brownie dessert. They use Little Man Ice Cream. This means you can try their famous ice cream without waiting in the ridiculously long line outside their storefront location.
So, have I convinced you to visit Denver yet? The city has something for everyone, and this 3-day Denver itinerary helps you get a taste of a little bit of everything Denver has to offer.
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