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Dreaming of your Denver getaway? You’ve found the perfect blog!
We’ve explored the Mile High City more times than we can count, and every visit uncovers something new to love. From its buzzing food scene and historic districts to those iconic mountain views just beyond the skyline, Denver is one of those places that manages to feel both exciting and easygoing at once.
We’ve strolled its quirky neighborhoods, hiked its nearby peaks, and uncovered hidden gems all over the city. This list brings together our absolute favorite experiences—ones we’ve personally done, loved, and would recommend in a heartbeat. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning a full Colorado adventure, these are the best things to do in Denver!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Denver was this guided tour to Rocky Mountain National Park! It made visiting the park a breeze, and our guide pointed out mountain peaks and wildlife – even moose and elk!
Check out the 2,800+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
- Things to do in Denver, Colorado
- 1. Taste your way through Downtown Denver
- 2. Explore small towns and Rocky Mountain National Park scenery
- 3. Discover Denver’s Art Scene
- 4. Visit Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs
- 5. Go hiking in the Rocky Mountains
- 6. See Denver’s history and top sights with a local guide
- 7. Visit the Botanical Gardens
- 8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline
- 9. Visit the famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
- 10. Check out Washington Park
- 11. Take a stroll through the 16th Street Mall
- 12. See the Continental Divide, Red Rocks, and the historic city of Breckenridge
- 13. Learn about Denver’s spooky past on a twilight ghost tour
- 14. Learn unique history at the Molly Brown House Museum
- 15. Experience Denver on a Bike & Brew tour
- Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Denver, Colorado
1. Taste your way through Downtown Denver


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 12:15 pm, 1 pm, 1:45 pm, and 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Sample menu highlights at five of downtown Denver’s award-winning local restaurants, hear tales from Denver’s raucous history, get a dining guide and tips for where to eat during the rest of your stay
- Inclusions: Small-group tour, local foodie guide, five food tastings, insiders’ Denver dining guide, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, three drink pairings (available to purchase for $26 USD)
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Denver has no shortage of great restaurants, but choosing just one can feel impossible. We spent way too long scanning menus and second-guessing ourselves before realizing this small-group food tour would let us try five of the best in one go. No decisions, no regrets—just a full afternoon of great food and stories.
For over three hours, we ate our way through downtown Denver, one delicious bite after another. We started with blistered, wood-fired pizza at Marco’s, a Michelin-recommended spot that lived up to the hype. Then came buttery Argentinian empanadas from a cozy family-run shop, still warm and packed with flavor.
Next was Cherry Cricket’s green chili—rich and spicy with just the right kick. But the Native American tacos at Kachina were bright and bold, and easily my favorite of the day. We ended inside Union Station with a silky chocolate dessert that completely hit the spot.
Between tastings, our guide, Forrest, had us laughing, learning, and seeing the city with fresh eyes. We wandered through LoDo, passed Coors Field, peeked into the Oxford Hotel, and explored spots we never would’ve found without a local leading the way.
What really sets this tour apart is how it blends Denver’s food scene with its history and neighborhoods—you’re not just eating, you’re exploring the city through its flavors. Read 5-star reviews here to see why travelers love this experience!
Book this award-winning food tour here before it sells out!
2. Explore small towns and Rocky Mountain National Park scenery


- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9 am and 9:45 am
- Highlights: Climb from the streets of the “Mile High City” to Rocky Mountain National Park, weave through small, historic towns, drive over alpine passes, spot local wildlife such as moose, elk, deer, and eagles
- Inclusions: Expert tour guide, water refill, upscale transportation, National Park Entrance Fee, lunch is included starting May 1
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 3,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to get swept up in Denver’s downtown buzz and forget that one of the most jaw-dropping national parks in the country is just up the road. We almost skipped it, thinking it would be too much to tackle in a day, but this full-day Rocky Mountain tour made the whole experience effortless and unforgettable.
The energy was contagious from the moment we met our guide, Aaron. He was friendly, funny, and wildly knowledgeable, pointing out wildlife, sharing stories about the park, and making sure we didn’t miss a thing.
At one point, he pulled over just in time for us to catch a herd of elk crossing the road, and we all just sat there in awe, cameras clicking. Thanks to him, we spotted moose, deer, and even a bald eagle soaring through the sky!
Each stop was better than the last! Lily Lake gave us postcard-worthy views of Longs Peak, Estes Park charmed us with its mountain town vibes and cute shops, and our picnic stop came with sweeping alpine scenery we’re still dreaming about. The ride between stops was smooth and comfy, letting us fully enjoy every moment.
With transportation, planning, and park fees handled for us, this tour was everything we wanted from the Rockies—and then some. It ended up being our favorite experience of our entire Denver trip!
Read THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and secure this Rocky Mountain adventure here!
3. Discover Denver’s Art Scene


Did you know Devner has a thriving art scene? It sure does! We loved balancing out our outdoor adventure with some of Denver’s unique artistic elements.
The Denver Art Museum has one of the largest collections in the Midwest, housing over 70,000 pieces of art. While we didn’t have enough time to see every single one, we enjoyed a few hours of perusing through its various collections. My personal favorite exhibits were the Indigenous arts of North America and the Western American art, simply because they are so unique to this area!
The Denver Art Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day of the week (and until 8 pm on Tuesdays).
More amazing displays of art can be found in the RiNo Arts District (River North Arts District)! This Denver neighborhood feels like you stepped into a painting, as there is impressive street art and murals around every corner. This arts district is situated in the northern part of the city, and there are over 100 murals in a concentrated area. My personal favorite is the “Larimer Boy/Girl” – see if you can find it!
I suggest grabbing a coffee and spending a morning strolling through the colorful streets to get a taste of Denver’s creative side!
4. Visit Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs


- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9:45 am
- Highlights: Small group tour of Colorado Springs, visit Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, enjoy lunch and free time or shopping in Manitou Springs
- Inclusions: Guide, park admission, bottled water, local taxes, fuel surcharge
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We wanted to get out of the city and see more of Colorado’s wild beauty—but driving up a 14,000-foot (4,200-meter) peak on our own? Hard pass! Booking this small-group day tour to Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak turned out to be the easiest (and most scenic) way to explore the Colorado Springs area without the worry.
Our guide, Harley, was super knowledgeable, laid-back, and full of fun facts. He made the drive feel more like a road trip with friends, pointing out wildlife (we saw elk!) and stopping at all the best viewpoints.
Garden of the Gods was every bit as majestic as we imagined, with giant red rock formations that look otherworldly. Balanced Rock was one of our favorite parts—it’s over 700 tons and somehow perfectly perched on a tiny base, making it look like it’s defying gravity. We snapped photos from every angle, amazed it hasn’t toppled over.
After a relaxing lunch break in the quirky town of Manitou Springs, where we grabbed food at our own expense and browsed a few cute shops, we drove to the summit of Pikes Peak. The snowcapped views stretched for miles, and the high-altitude air made it feel like we were truly on top of the world.
Between the incredible views, wildlife sightings, and Harley’s expert guiding, it’s no wonder this tour has thousands of 5-star reviews. It was one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience Colorado’s mountain magic!
This one tends to sell out, so book early here to secure your spot!
5. Go hiking in the Rocky Mountains


- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 9 am and 3 pm
- Highlights: Full-day guided hike in the Rockies, learn about the flora and fauna you see along the way, ‘Yak traks’ are provided during the winter months, carpool to and from the trailhead
- Inclusions: Guide, snacks, shoe spikes available in the winter, extra layer, hat, or gloves (upon early request), small-group tour, transportation to and from trailhead (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Picking the right hike in the Rockies can be surprisingly stressful, especially if you’re not used to the altitude or unsure what conditions to expect. That’s exactly why we booked this small-group guided hike just outside Denver. No planning, no second-guessing—just fresh mountain air, great company, and trails picked to match the group’s comfort level.
Our guide, Brian, couldn’t have been better. He was funny, easy to talk to, and clearly knew the area like the back of his hand. Before we even hit the trail, he checked in about the group’s preferences, weather, and timing, then chose a route that gave us the right amount of challenge with some seriously rewarding views.
Along the way, he pointed out wildflowers, local plants, and animal tracks, making the hike feel like more than just a workout. The trail had a steady incline with a few steeper sections, but the pace was relaxed and there were plenty of breaks to catch our breath and enjoy the scenery.
We stopped for water breaks, snapped photos at panoramic overlooks, and even made a few new friends in the group. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just want someone else to handle the logistics, this experience is worth adding to your Denver itinerary!
Reserve your Rockies hike here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
6. See Denver’s history and top sights with a local guide


- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Discover downtown Denver on this small-group walking tour, explore Larimer Square, Union Station, and the Capitol, stroll through adjacent neighborhoods, and hear fun historical facts
- Inclusions: Local, English-speaking guide, suggestions for where to eat, shop, and visit in the city
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 460+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Downtown Denver can feel overwhelming at first with historic buildings, modern developments, and neighborhoods blending together. Booking this guided walking tour helped us get our bearings and connect the dots without feeling like we were just wandering around or reading plaques.
Having a small group made it easy to ask questions and actually hear the stories behind the places we passed. From the gold-domed Colorado State Capitol to the buzzing streets of LoDo, we saw how Denver grew from a rough mining town into the city it is today.
Our guide, Kristina, even shared a story about early Denver saloons and how a shootout once led to the construction of the very building we were standing in front of.
One of the most surprising things we learned was how Larimer Square, now packed with boutiques and restaurants, used to be on the verge of demolition before locals stepped in to preserve it.
At Union Station, we paused for a minute just to capture the scene of locals grabbing coffee, travelers coming and going, and sunlight pouring through the giant windows. The energy here really stuck with us!
By the end of the tour, we felt like we’d unlocked a version of the city we never would’ve discovered on our own. It was the perfect mix of history, local insight, and hidden gems, and one of the best ways to kick off our time in Denver!
Check out the 430+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Visit the Botanical Gardens


Are you craving some outdoor adventure but don’t have time to take a hike? We get it! Denver is a huge city, and if you have limited time, taking a whole day to escape the concrete jungle and hit the trails isn’t always doable. Instead, spend a few hours in the Denver Botanical Garden.
The gardens are a stunning display of all the unique flora that Colorado is so widely known for. Spanning 23 acres (9.3 hectares), there’s a variety of themed gardens, a conservatory, and even an amphitheater that hosts events and concerts during the summer. Be sure to check out the Japanese Garden – it’s so serene and simply beautiful.
The botanical gardens are open weekdays from 9 am to 8 pm, and until 7 pm on the weekends. The entrance fee is $16 USD, and we thought it was well worth the price, as we spent nearly three hours there!
It’s important to note that there are technically three different botanical gardens in the city. But the main one that I’m talking about here is located on York Street, just a 10-minute drive from the downtown area.
8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline


- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Time: 9 am, 12 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Discover aerial perspectives of Colorado on a beginner-friendly zip line tour, navigate 10 different zip lines, soar over 320 acres (130 hectares) of landscapes, admire Rocky Mountain vistas
- Inclusions: All zip line gear and equipment, one-on-one instruction, small-group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
We were looking for a fun outdoor activity that didn’t require a ton of experience or planning, and this small-group zip line tour was the perfect fit. Just a short drive from Denver, it gave us a totally unique perspective of Colorado—wide-open landscapes, fresh mountain air, and that adrenaline rush you only get when you’re zipping through the treetops.
After getting geared up and walking through a quick safety demo, we were off, flying across 10 ziplines stretched over 320 acres (130 hectares) of rugged terrain.
Some lines were fast and long, others shorter and higher, but they all came with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. One had such a steep drop that it felt like a rollercoaster. We screamed, laughed, and immediately wanted to do it again!
Our guides, Marcus and Jake, kept the energy high with tips, encouragement, and a few solid jokes. The short hikes between lines gave us time to catch our breath and take in the views, which made the adventure feel exciting without being overwhelming. It struck that perfect balance of thrill and ease, even for first-timers.
Don’t just take our word for it—check out the glowing 5-star reviews here to see why this is one of the most talked-about outdoor adventures near Denver. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you buzzing, with sore cheeks from smiling the whole time!
Book this 5-star tour in advance here, before spots fill up!
9. Visit the famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater


- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Discover the Red Rocks Amphitheater and enjoy a scenic mountain drive along Lariat Loop, stroll through small, historic towns before stopping in Golden
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, water refill, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Colorado’s Red Rocks is one of the most iconic parts of Denver, especially the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater. We knew that escaping the city and heading to the foothills would be the perfect way to spend the day, so we booked this small-group tour! In just a few hours, we got front-row views of Denver’s natural beauty without having to plan a thing.
Our first stop was Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and seeing it in person is truly something else. Towering red rock formations surround the open-air venue, and walking through the seats and trails gave us a real sense of why it’s considered one of the best music venues in the world.
From there, we wound along the Lariat Loop to Lookout Mountain, where the views stretch from the city skyline to the Rockies. We couldn’t help but stop and stare in awe—sky above, mountains ahead, and Denver in the distance.
Our guide, Jason, kept things fun and informative the whole way. He even made a special stop so we could try to spot a few buffalo—and we did! The tour wrapped up with free time in Golden, where we grabbed coffee and strolled along the creek before heading back to Denver.
It’s a relaxed, scenic way to explore the foothills! You see a lot in a short time, and the mix of natural beauty, quirky towns, and great local insight makes it one of the best ways to get a taste of Colorado beyond the city.
See it for yourself – book this tour with over 1,200 5-star reviews here!
10. Check out Washington Park

If you find yourself with a few hours of downtime in Denver, don’t miss Washington Park! This is a massive park (155 acres/62.7 hectares to be exact) and is one of the locals’ favorite areas to hang out.
You’ll find miles of walking paths that weave around two lakes and two stunning flower gardens. We learned that one of the flower gardens is a replica of George Washington’s historic garden at his residence in Mount Vernon, which is pretty unique!
We were feeling a little more active while in Washington Park, so we rented bicycles from one of the local vendors and spent an hour or so peddling around and breathing in the crisp, mile-high air. You can even rent paddle boats if you’re looking to get on the water. Regardless of what you do, Washington Park is a lovely way to slow down while in Denver.
11. Take a stroll through the 16th Street Mall

If you want to see some of Denver’s top highlights in one afternoon, spend some time wandering through the 16th Street Mall! This is a 1-mile (1.6 kilometer) pedestrian-only mall that connects all of Downtown Denver.
On one end, you’ll find Union Station (another stop worth checking out), and on the other is the large Civic Center Park, which perfectly frames the striking Colorado State Capitol building. In between, you’ll find dozens of shops, restaurants, and cafes that follow the red and grey walking path.
Strolling along The Mall was a great way to spend an afternoon and see the local side of Denver! Start at Civic Center Park and end at Union Station to reward yourself with a drink or a sweet treat.
12. See the Continental Divide, Red Rocks, and the historic city of Breckenridge


- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9:45 am
- Highlights: Small-group tour exploring the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Continental Divide, visit Breckenridge and enjoy free time to wander, shop, and eat lunch (own expense)
- Inclusions: Round-trip transit from central Denver, admission, and bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Driving through the mountains sounds like a dream until you’re staring at winding roads, high elevations, and unfamiliar routes. This small-group day tour took all the stress out of mountain travel and packed some of Colorado’s most iconic stops into one, unforgettable trip—from Red Rocks to the Continental Divide and the alpine town of Breckenridge.
We kicked off the day exploring Red Rocks Amphitheatre, then drove up into the high country via Loveland Pass, with photo stops along the Continental Divide. The air got thinner, the views got bigger, and the scenery just kept delivering. By the time we reached Breckenridge, we were surrounded by pine-covered peaks and mountain-town charm.
Our guide, Monica, was fun, relaxed, and full of great local insight. In Breckenridge, we had about two hours to explore, shop, and grab lunch (not included), and we even found the giant wooden troll hiding in the forest just outside of town.
Yes, a 15-foot (4.5-meter) troll! It’s weird, it’s whimsical, and 100% worth the detour. On the way back, we made one last stop at Sapphire Point for lakeside views that looked like they belonged on a postcard.
This is one of the easiest ways to experience Colorado’s best landscapes in just a day. But it’s a popular tour that sells out fast, so grab your spot early to make sure it’s part of your Denver trip!
Don’t miss out—book this full-day mountain adventure here!
13. Learn about Denver’s spooky past on a twilight ghost tour


- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 6 pm to 8:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Denver’s most haunted neighborhood at night, visit locations of past and current paranormal activity, hear spooky stories of Denver’s history, and get excellent photo opportunities of famous haunted mansions
- Inclusions: Tour escort/host, all taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
History tours can sometimes feel a little too buttoned-up, but this nighttime ghost walk through Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood is anything but dry. It blends eerie legends, actual historic events, and spine-tingling stories into one surprisingly fun and memorable evening.
We wandered from the ornate Crawford Hill Mansion to the gothic facade of the Patterson Inn while our guide, Jayce, filled us in on all the juicy stories. He even took us by haunted places like the Molly Brown House and the ghost-riddled Colburn Hotel – yikes!
The story behind the Peabody-Whitehead Mansion was especially chilling. There are rumors of at least a dozen spirits inside, and phones mysteriously shutting off when people try to take pictures. One guest swore she saw someone watching us from an upstairs window—but no one was up there.
The mix of paranormal tales, Denver scandals, and local history kept us hooked the whole time. And yes, we took way too many photos trying to spot orbs!
One of the creepiest stops was outside the Sheedy Mansion, where “The Lady in Red” is said to glide up the main staircase. There’s something about standing on a quiet street in front of a massive, shadowy mansion while someone tells you a real ghost story that just hits differently. Everyone in our group leaned in a little closer for that one!
Whether or not you believe in ghosts, you’ll leave with goosebumps and a way better understanding of Denver’s haunted side. With over one thousand 5-star reviews, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best ghost tours in the city!
Grab your spot here and see why this ghost tour is so highly rated!
14. Learn unique history at the Molly Brown House Museum


We were excited to find some truly unique Denver sights, and the Molly Brown House Museum is definitely one of them. This isn’t your average museum – it’s steeped in history, dating back to the 1800s, and has ties to the Titanic (yes, really!).
This historic house was built in 1889 and was home to Margaret Brown, who is known as the “Heroine of the Titanic”. Molly Brown actually survived the Titanic and has done so much more than just that. She is a known philanthropist and activist, fundraising to help fellow Titanic survivors.
The house now stands as a museum of its time, full of Victorian-era artifacts and design. It also gives so much information about Molly Brown, who was a seriously impressive lady! We think this is an essential stop during your trip to Denver, as it is full of fascinating history, and the house is simply beautiful! It only takes an hour or so to visit, and I highly recommend buying your entrance tickets in advance, as this museum is very popular and often sells out.
15. Experience Denver on a Bike & Brew tour


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 1 pm
- Highlights: Private tour exploring Denver by bike, experience the city’s extensive bike path system, visit a local tap room
- Inclusions: Guide, use of bicycle or E-bike (depending on option selected), use of helmet, bottled water
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 270+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Downtown Denver is packed with sights, but trying to see it all on foot or by car can get overwhelming fast. This private bike and brew tour was the perfect solution. In just a few hours, we hit major landmarks, explored hidden city corners, and capped it all off with a well-earned drink at a local taproom.
We pedaled through downtown, weaving along river trails, art-covered alleys, and buzzing neighborhoods while checking out highlights like the Denver Art Museum, Civic Center Park, and Union Station. Since it was just our private group, we could go at our own pace, ask plenty of questions, and stop for photos whenever we wanted.
Depending on your comfort level, you can ride a regular bike or an E-bike, so it’s accessible and fun for everyone. The pace was easy, the route was well-planned, and the city’s bike lanes made the ride smooth and stress-free.
Our guide, Jordan, made the whole experience even better. She was laid-back, knowledgeable, and genuinely fun to hang out with. When we were ready to relax, she led us to a local brewery for drinks on our own tab. The selection was huge, and everyone found something they liked—non-drinkers had soda and snack options, too.
This tour was a great way to see a different side of Denver—on two wheels, with a pint at the end. It struck the perfect balance of sightseeing, fresh air, and local flavor, and ended up being one of our favorite experiences of the trip!
Reserve this private bike and brew tour here and get flexible payment options!
Related Read: Maximize your time in Denver and follow our ideal 3-day Denver itinerary, which includes most of these activities!
Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado

Denver blends urban energy with Rocky Mountain charm, and where you stay can really shape your trip. From stylish downtown hotels to budget-friendly options with easy access to the city, Denver offers something for every kind of traveler. Staying downtown is especially convenient, with easy access to top attractions, restaurants, nightlife, and public transport.
To make your planning easier, here are three great places to stay in Denver. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more affordable, something here fits your style, needs, and budget.
Luxury – $$$
Located in the heart of downtown, the Four Seasons Hotel Denver is a sleek and luxurious base just steps from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and Larimer Square. This 5-star hotel features a rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and elegant rooms with city or mountain views. Expect plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and warm, attentive service that makes every stay feel personal. It’s a standout for those who want comfort and class in the middle of it all.
Rates typically range from $550–$1,000+ USD per night. Check availability for your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Downtown is a reliable mid-range stay just a short walk from the Colorado State Capitol and downtown Denver’s top spots. This clean, comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a hearty complimentary breakfast. Families and business travelers alike appreciate the friendly service and great amenities, including free Wi-Fi and private parking.
With rooms ranging from around $150 to $350 USD per night, it’s a solid choice for value and location. See room options for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
La Quinta by Wyndham Denver Gateway Park is a top choice for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay in Denver. Located just 15 minutes from the airport, this hotel offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a daily complimentary breakfast, unwind in the indoor pool and hot tub, or squeeze in a workout at the fitness center. There’s even free parking and a 24-hour front desk for added convenience.
Rates start around $95 USD per night. Head to Booking.com to book your stay!
For more options, see all of Denver’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!

Denver is a unique city because it blends the concrete jungle with the great outdoors! We had so much fun exploring the city’s fun and local sights, but then also easily hitting a hiking trail, seeing gorgeous red rock formations, or gawking at the Rocky Mountains. Follow this guide and I know you’ll have a fantastic time in Denver – we certainly did!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other USA blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers, and have put together a ton of resources to help you plan a fantastic trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
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