Colorado offers an incredible mix of diversity, natural beauty, and breathtaking grandeur. From endless powder-filled slopes and outdoor adventures to unexpectedly cosmopolitan arts and dining scenes, all set against the backdrop of 300 days of sunshine, it’s a destination that never ceases to impress.
As the sun dips low and casts a golden-orange glow over towering red rock formations, and the perfect song echoes through the air, Red Rocks Amphitheatre becomes pure magic—earning its 19th-century nickname, the “Garden of Angels.”
Nestled between 400-foot-high sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks boasts near-perfect acoustics, making it a favorite for artists recording live albums. With over 9,000 seats offering breathtaking views, this natural amphitheater regularly hosts major names during its summer concert series. Watching your favorite performer light up this legendary stage is an unforgettable experience—one that alone justifies a trip to Colorado.
Many visitors drop by during a Denver trip to explore the venue by day. And even in silence, Red Rocks is captivating. It’s part of a 600-acre open-space park open to the public for free during the day, complete with a visitor center, trading post, and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. Hike scenic trails, soak in the views, or climb the 250+ steps to the top of the amphitheater for sweeping panoramas of the park and distant Denver. Popular events like Yoga on the Rocks and Film on the Rocks also bring in hundreds.
A Bit of History
Music at Red Rocks has deep roots. The Ute Tribe once used the area as a sacred gathering site for music and dance. In the early 1900s, concerts were held on makeshift stages until 1936, when the Civilian Conservation Corps built the amphitheater we know today. Initially a venue for classical and military bands, Red Rocks stepped into rock history with none other than The Beatles as its first rock act. Since then, legends like U2, Neil Young, Dave Matthews, and even John Tesh have recorded albums here, thanks to its pristine natural soundscape.
Tickets & Tips
Events run year-round, with schedules and tickets available online. Ticket prices vary by show. While there are two large parking areas, they fill quickly and exiting can be slow—rideshares are a smart alternative. Many locals arrive early with coolers for tailgate picnics, as food inside the venue is often overpriced and underwhelming. You can bring your own food (but no alcohol), and drinks—including beer and wine—are sold inside. Blankets or seat cushions are handy for events like movie nights, while concerts often have people on their feet. Even summer nights can get chilly at this altitude, so bring layers.
Dining & Lodging Near Red Rocks
Lodging and dining near Red Rocks are limited. Morrison, a tiny town just beyond the Hogback rock formation, offers a handful of casual cafes and diners—great for a pre-show bite or post-hike lunch, but don’t expect fine dining.
The only place to stay in town is Cliff House Lodge, a quirky B&B with hot tubs in every cottage and a serene garden to unwind in. The décor might be eclectic, but the charm is undeniable.
Beautifully restored and rich in history, Union Station stands as Denver’s primary transportation hub, connecting the city via RTD light rail, commuter buses, and Amtrak. But it’s far more than a transit point—it’s a vibrant gathering space for locals and visitors alike.
Step inside the grand hall and you’ll find plush leather seating, shuffleboard tables, and free Wi-Fi, making it an inviting place to relax, socialize, or even get some work done. The iconic Tattered Cover Bookstore has a charming mini branch here, and a flower cart brightens the space with fresh seasonal blooms.
Shops, Dining & Hotel Luxury
Inside and around the station, you’ll find stylish restaurants, cozy coffee shops, chic boutiques, and lively bars. One of Denver’s top hotels, The Crawford, is located within the station itself, offering a unique stay steeped in elegance and history.
Summer Vibes
On Saturdays during the summer (9am–2pm), a bustling farmers market takes over the plaza outside, drawing big crowds. Just beyond that, a playful pop-up fountain entertains children and adults alike with splash-worthy fun in the heart of the city.
How to Visit
Union Station is easily accessible by light rail from nearly any part of Denver. Once there, guided tours are offered by The Crawford Hotel—Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 1pm, and most other days at 4pm ($20 per person). You can also simply wander through, enjoy a coffee or cocktail, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the outdoor spaces—they’re just as inviting.
Where to Stay
The Crawford Hotel is Union Station’s crown jewel. Housed within the station, it blends historic charm with modern luxury—think high ceilings, clawfoot tubs, art deco touches, and top-notch service. The hotel even offers a Tesla shuttle within a 2-mile radius and is steps from the airport light rail for maximum convenience.
Where to Eat & Drink
Whether you’re craving gourmet meals or casual bites, Union Station delivers.
Snooze is the go-to brunch spot, known for its fun atmosphere and epic pancakes.
For cocktails, The Terminal Bar and The Cooper Lounge serve drinks with style.
Foodies will love Ultreia, Stoic & Genuine, and Mercantile, offering award-winning menus with a global flair.
Quick options like sandwich shops, pizza joints, and an artisan coffee bar round out the offerings—perfect for meals on the move.
At the meeting point of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River lies Confluence Park—a lively hub of Denver’s outdoor-loving lifestyle. When summer temperatures soar, this is where locals come to unwind, cool off, and embrace the sunshine.
Tubing & Kayaking
With its scenic backdrop, Confluence Park is the perfect place for a riverside picnic. Adventure-seekers can enjoy a short white-water run ideal for tubing or kayaking. No gear? No problem. Confluence Kayaks, located just across from the Downtown Aquarium, offers rentals and expert advice from friendly, easygoing staff. Beginners can even take lessons, either in their indoor pool or at Chatfield Reservoir.
For families, a shallow water zone and sandy beach area offer a safe, fun space for kids to splash and build sandcastles.
Hiking & Biking Trails
Confluence Park is also a gateway to some of Denver’s most popular trails.
Head south along Cherry Creek Trail to reach Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Go southwest on the Platte Trail for a longer ride to Chatfield Reservoir.
Travel north to connect with Clear Creek Trail, which leads to Golden.
Too hot to bike or hike? Hop aboard the Denver Trolley for a relaxed, scenic ride along the river.
Shopping & Dining Nearby
A pleasant walk along Cherry Creek Trail brings you to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Denver’s upscale retail destination. Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tiffany & Co., and Ralph Lauren line the stylish corridors, anchored by Neiman Marcus.
The mall also offers an air-conditioned escape with a movie theater and indoor play area for kids. Dining options cover all preferences—from quick bites at Panda Express to refined Tuscan cuisine at Brio, where white tablecloths and rich flavors create a relaxed yet elegant dining experience.
The Denver Art Museum (DAM) is renowned for housing one of the most extensive collections of Native American art in the United States. But that’s just the beginning. Its rotating multimedia exhibitions span everything from classic British masterpieces to iconic Star Wars costumes. The Western American Art section in the permanent collection is a standout favorite, drawing praise from art lovers and historians alike.
This isn’t your typical, stuffy museum—DAM is dynamic, modern, and incredibly interactive. Kids especially love the hands-on exhibits, where they’re encouraged to explore, create, and play.
The Hamilton Building: A Modern Marvel
The museum’s most iconic feature is the striking Frederic C. Hamilton Building, a $110-million architectural wonder designed by Daniel Libeskind. Whether you see jagged crystal formations, abstract mountains, or just a bold expression of contemporary design, one thing’s certain—it’s unforgettable.
Inside, the visual intrigue continues. As you move through the space, natural light and shifting angles create a sense of movement and surprise at every turn. Children will love the engaging play zones on each floor, along with interactive features like treasure hunts and DIY postcard stations.
Planning Your Visit
Admission: $13 for adults; free for visitors under 18.
Advance booking is recommended to avoid lines or sold-out exhibits.
Free Days: Offered throughout the year—check the museum’s website for the latest dates.
Want a preview before you go? The DAM offers virtual tours of past and current exhibitions online, along with custom audio tours tailored to specific exhibits for in-person visits.
Dedicated solely to the work and legacy of 20th-century American abstract expressionist Clyfford Still, this unique museum houses an extraordinary collection—over 2,400 pieces, representing 95% of the artist’s total output. Known for his powerful and uncompromising style (and personality), Still’s work is presented through carefully curated rotating exhibitions that highlight different themes and phases of his career.
A Museum Built to His Vision
Fulfilling the artist’s will, which stated his work should be displayed in one dedicated space, the city of Denver commissioned architect Brad Cloepfil to bring that vision to life. The result: a striking concrete building with 9,000 square feet of gallery space. The entrance is intentionally dim, creating a sensory contrast that enhances the dramatic use of light throughout the galleries—offering visitors a more immersive experience.
Visiting the Museum
Admission: $10 for adults; free for visitors under 17 (ticket still required).
Tours: Free guided tours are available throughout the week—check the museum’s website for the current schedule.
While the museum is quieter and more contemplative than the nearby Denver Art Museum, it offers a kid-friendly scavenger hunt that adds a playful element for younger visitors.
This stunning stretch of red sandstone, dating back nearly 290 million years, can be found in several places along Colorado’s Front Range—but nowhere is it as breathtaking as at Garden of the Gods. Here, dramatic cathedral-like spires rise against a backdrop of rugged mountains, creating one of the state’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes.
Explore the park’s network of paved and unpaved trails, perfect for hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the scenery. Bring a picnic, keep an eye out for wildlife, and watch climbers navigate the often delicate, flaky rock.
Signature Formations
Look out for famous rock formations such as Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and the towering Cathedral Spires. While climbing or scrambling without proper gear is prohibited, those with experience can apply for a free climbing permit through the city’s website or visitor center.
Visitor Info & Activities
Before you hit the trails, stop at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, where you can learn about the geology, wildlife, and history of the area. If you’re looking to explore on horseback or take part in guided tours, the center is the place to arrange it.
Nearby, Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site offers a fascinating look into the lives of Native Americans, early settlers, and 19th-century ranchers. Costumed interpreters and living history exhibits make it especially engaging for families.
Getting Around
During the busy summer months, traffic within the park can be heavy. Fortunately, a free shuttle runs from Rock Ledge Ranch to the visitor center and main trailheads. Biking is also a fantastic way to get around and enjoy the views without the crowds.
Set at the base of Boulder’s breathtaking Flatirons, Chautauqua Park is a beloved landmark and the starting point for some of the area’s most scenic trails. Its wide, grassy lawn invites picnicking families, sunbathers, Frisbee players, and CU students to relax and soak up the sunshine, while the nearby trails attract hikers, trail runners, and climbers year-round.
Due to its popularity, parking can be tricky, especially on weekends. Luckily, during the summer months, the City of Boulder offers a free weekend shuttle from downtown and designated satellite lots. For details, visit parktopark.org.
Family-Friendly Hiking Tip
If you’re exploring with kids, don’t miss a stop at the Ranger Cottage, where you can borrow a free nature discovery pack. Each pack includes binoculars, field guides, and kid-friendly activities—perfect for turning a simple walk into an engaging outdoor adventure.
A Historic Legacy
Originally the site of a rural education movement known as the Chautauqua Movement, the park still honors that legacy. Today, it’s home to historic cottages, a charming restaurant, and a summer performance series in the auditorium that features world-class music, dance, and theater.
This is one of Denver’s most popular attractions for families—and for good reason. Kids go wild for the three-story enclosed climbing structure (helmets provided), while the hands-on teaching kitchen, 2,300-square-foot art studio, maker space, and life-sized marble run offer hours of creative play. Outside, the expansive playground is a paradise of climbing, digging, and splashing zones that invite open-ended exploration.
Toddlers aren’t left out—there’s a dedicated area designed specifically for crawlers and early walkers, filled with age-appropriate fun.
Don’t Miss: Adventure Forest
The museum’s outdoor showstopper is the Adventure Forest, a 500-foot-long aerial adventure course that looks like it could be Peter Pan’s jungle hideout. High above the ground, it’s perfect for kids who love a challenge—and don’t mind a little height.
Plan Your Visit
Free admission is offered on the first Tuesday of each month, from 4pm to 8pm.
Ideal for kids of all ages, but especially engaging for ages 1–10.
Located in the heart of the Riverfront area near downtown, with easy access and parking.
