Things to Do in Denver

A mile-long pedestrian promenade running through the center of downtown Denver. Lined with shops, restaurants, street performers, and a free shuttle bus that runs end-to-end. A great place to stretch your legs between sessions.

Denver's oldest and most celebrated block, lined with historic Victorian buildings, independently owned restaurants, boutiques, and rooftop bars. A great first stop for dinner or an evening out.

Denver's museum district, home to the Denver Art Museum, History Colorado Center, and the Clyfford Still Museum. A walkable cluster of world-class institutions tucked between the Capitol and downtown.

One of the largest natural history museums in the United States. Highlights include a world-class gem and mineral collection, a space sciences gallery, ancient Egypt exhibits, and the Gates Planetarium, which runs immersive dome shows on topics ranging from black holes to aurora borealis. The IMAX theater is also on-site. Excellent for adults with deep collections and thoughtful scientific curation.

A stunning 24-acre garden in the heart of Capitol Hill, with collections spanning alpine tundra, tropical cloud forest, and high-desert ecosystems. In April, tulips and early spring plantings are in full bloom. The horticultural science on display is exceptional; the Chatfield Farms satellite campus, a short drive away, offers a wilder experience.

America's first standalone invertebrate zoo and a surprisingly compelling experience for science-minded adults. Walk through a tropical conservatory with free-flying butterflies, explore arthropod exhibits with live tarantulas and giant millipedes, and engage with hands-on invertebrate science. Unusual and genuinely fascinating if you're curious about biology.

NREL (the U.S. Department of Energy's primary renewable energy research lab) operates a free public visitor center in Golden, CO. Exhibits cover solar, wind, hydrogen, and grid technology, with live energy production data from the campus on display. A uniquely interesting stop for anyone working in the physical sciences or with an interest in energy systems.

A sprawling food hall in the historic Dairy Block, featuring 16 local concepts under one roof, from fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza to craft cocktails and gelato. One of the easiest dinner plans for a group — everyone can order what they want and settle in at shared tables. Open late on weekends.

Denver's most storied steakhouse, located in the Ritz-Carlton just steps from the hotel. Named for Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway, this is the go-to for a celebratory dinner or an impressive meal with colleagues. Exceptional dry-aged steaks, a strong Colorado wine list, and a lively but refined atmosphere. Reservations recommended.

Denver's most celebrated dining block sits five minutes from the hotel and is built for an evening out. Among the highlights: Rioja (James Beard-nominated Mediterranean), Bistro Vendome (classic French), and Guard and Grace (upscale steakhouse with a great bar). Larimer Square is the right answer when someone asks where to go for dinner in Denver.

A Denver institution for breakfast and brunch. Known for inventive pancake flights and egg benedicts with a twist. Multiple downtown locations make this a reliable morning option before a full day of sessions. Arrive early on weekends or expect a wait.

One of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, with an exceptional collection of Native American art, modern and contemporary works, and rotating special exhibitions. The building, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is a landmark.

An immersive, interactive museum dedicated to the stories of Colorado, from its Indigenous history to the Gold Rush, ranching culture, and modern era. Well worth an evening visit for anyone curious about the region.

One of the most famous outdoor venues in the world, carved into natural red sandstone formations in the foothills west of Denver. Even without a concert, the park is open daily for hiking and sightseeing, with stunning views of the plains from 6,450 feet elevation.

A paved, multi-use trail running 40+ miles along Cherry Creek from downtown Denver through the suburbs. The downtown section is perfect for a morning run or a rented bike ride, winding through Confluence Park and along the creek to Cherry Creek North.

Denver's largest city park, home to the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, two lakes, and panoramic views of the Front Range on clear days. A peaceful escape from downtown, ideal for an early morning run or a weekend afternoon.

A bucket-list destination for those with a free day. More than 350 miles of trails range from easy lakeside walks to alpine summit routes. In April, the lower elevations are typically snow-free and wildflower season begins.

April skiing in Colorado is among the best in the country. Breckenridge, Vail, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin are all within a 90-minute drive. Conditions are typically excellent through mid-April with spring corn snow.