Travelers everywhere are gearing up as toasty weather, longer days and epic vacations are fast approaching. While some southern U.S. destinations may be first on the list for summer adventures, the Mile High City is a welcome surprise in its offerings of experiences suitable for all ages. With quick access to Colorado’s rugged terrain and a bustling city at a traveler’s fingertips, these five activities are sure to make a summer getaway to Denver unforgettable.
Dine Sustainably at Root Down
Good eats are a must for any destination, but what better way to do it than sustainably? Root Down, located in Denver’s Highland neighborhood, is gaining attraction for its sustainability initiatives, both in the décor and the kitchen. Upon entering, guests are greeted by eclectic and funky interior design choices as salvaged storefront windows line the private dining room, a water tank sits in place of a hostess table and upcycled art decorates the walls. Sustainable through and through, Root Down is also partially wind-powered and utilizes biodegradable to-go containers and green cleaning supplies. Taking a peek into the kitchen, farm-to-table enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the use of locally sourced ingredients. Including seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood and pasture-raised meats, every dish here is teeming with natural and organic flavors. The baby beet salad, Rockfish Tom Kha and banana cream pie offer a glimpse into the options at Root Down, so be sure to give one of these fan-favorite menu items a try!
Catch a Sporting Event
For sports fans, the bright sun and warm weather provide the perfect opportunity to catch one of the many events taking place in Denver this year. Starting the summer season off, the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team will be playing a friendly against Korea Republic on June 1, followed by a match between Mexico and Uruguay’s men’s national soccer teams on June 5. The highly anticipated BMW championship of the PGA tour returns to Colorado at the end of August, and of course, the MLB’s Colorado Rockies are set to host plenty of home games as well. No matter a traveler’s taste, the sporting options are endless.
Tour Denver’s Murals and Street Art
Perhaps an unconventional method of exploring a new destination, Denver has an active street art scene that strives to brighten the surrounding urban environment. The artwork is constantly changing, but visitors will likely find these ornate murals on building exteriors, warehouses, garage doors, storefronts and side streets. Touring the city’s hotspot locations for street art is perfect for those seeking a flexible activity as it is self-guided — visitors can choose to move from one area to the next or stick to one district. Street art sectors are in abundance in Denver, but these three are especially noteworthy.
- RiNo: The River North Art District (RiNo) is a major creative hub that leans on its industrial past, utilizing historic warehouses and factories as canvasses. Pieces like “Reverberations,” “Larimer Boy and Girl” and “2668 Walnut St.” are popular.
- East Colfax: An energetic section of the city, East Colfax is home to some of the best live music venues in Denver with a palpable appreciation for the arts here. Art pieces in this sector take a bolder stance, some of which portray significant political issues or social commentary.
- The Art District on Santa Fe: Designated Colorado’s Creative District, this area has the largest concentration of art galleries in the state with more than 30 located here. Artwork is splashed onto every surface from doors and windows to sidewalks and mailboxes with notable murals like “Love This City” and “Smiling Boy.”
Explore Red Rocks Amphitheatre
A visit to Denver wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The summer concert season is sure to be another one for the books with an exceptionally diverse schedule. Rock bands like Lord Huron and Portugal The Man, indie pop artist Girl in Red, country singer Maren Morris and even rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie are all set to make an appearance with other artists, both new and old, scheduled through November.
While Red Rocks is celebrated as an idyllic concert location, the captivating venue is also great for outdoor exploration and film festivals. Visitors are encouraged to hike, mountain bike and horseback ride through Red Rocks Trail or participate in morning yoga. Film on the Rocks is another classic activity with live entertainment preceding the start of the show. While this summer’s schedule has yet to be announced, last year featured favorites like Mamma Mia, Black Panther and Top Gun: Maverick.
Visit Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Whether it’s an adults-only getaway or a family vacation, an amusement park is a thrilling way to soak up the best of summer. Located in the heart of Denver, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park features over 54 rides and attractions that ensure the most fun for everyone. Adrenaline junkies are sure to love rollercoaster rides like the Mind Eraser and Half Pipe, both of which top speeds of 60 mph, while Big Wheel and Elitch Gardens’ Carousel offer slower-paced adventures. Water rides like Canonball Falls and SlideZilla shouldn’t go without mention as these are recommended to beat the summer heat.
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