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Dreaming of the ultimate Denver weekend? Stick with us—we’ve mapped it all out.
Denver is a vibrant city where creative neighborhoods, world-class food, and mountain adventures all come together, and after several trips exploring the city up and down, we’ve crafted a perfectly balanced itinerary to help you make the most of your time here.
Whether you’re strolling through mural-covered streets, tasting your way through LoDo, or standing in awe at Red Rocks, this itinerary is designed to show you the very best of Denver without feeling rushed. After exploring its highlights and hidden gems more than once, we’ve got the local insight to help you plan a trip that’s relaxed, scenic, and full of flavor.
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 was this Rocky Mountain National Park tour! This tour made escaping the city and exploring the stunning Rocky Mountains easy with our local guide and transportation provided. Plus, our guide pointed out so much wildlife!
Check out the 2,900+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- 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!
Day 1
Breakfast – Corinne Denver
Corinne Denver is the perfect place to kick off your first day. Located conveniently within a 15-minute stroll of your morning tour stop, this spot opens its doors bright and early at 6:30 or 7 am—ideal for early risers or anyone eager to fuel up before a busy day of sightseeing. But don’t worry if you’d rather linger in bed a little longer; there’s no need to rush here. Arrive when you’re ready and settle in for a leisurely start.
The breakfast menu at Corinne Denver is impressively varied. From hearty classics like pancakes to lighter bites such as avocado toast, there’s something to please everyone’s palate. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, the team at Corinne Denver has you covered.
Morning – Discover Denver’s highlights on a guided walking tour
After breakfast, we joined this walking tour for the perfect introduction to Downtown Denver. The city’s mix of historic buildings and modern developments can feel overwhelming at first, but the tour connected the dots and showed how Denver grew from a mining town into the vibrant city it is today.
We recommend the 10 am departure—it lines up perfectly with lunch plans later in the day. The small group setting was a real bonus, giving us the chance to ask questions and hear the stories behind the places we passed. From the gold-domed Colorado State Capitol to the buzzing streets of LoDo, we got a feel for Denver’s past and its evolution into a modern hub.
Our guide, Kristina, was fantastic—she even shared a tale about a shootout in an early Denver saloon that 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 bustling with boutiques and restaurants, was once almost torn down before locals rallied to save it.
We ended the tour at Union Station, taking a moment to soak up the scene—locals grabbing coffee, travelers coming and going, and sunlight flooding through those grand windows. It was a great way to kick off our time in Denver and see the city through a local’s eyes.
Check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews and book this tour here!
Lunch/Early Afternoon – Taste your way around Denver
Denver has no shortage of great restaurants, but picking just one can feel impossible. Instead of second-guessing ourselves, we decided to join this small-group food tour, and we experienced five amazing locations in one afternoon, no decisions, no regrets.
Starting around 1 or 1:45 pm (we chose 1:45, with plenty of time to decompress after the morning tour), this three-hour adventure took us on a delicious journey through downtown. Marco’s served up wood-fired pizza that earned its Michelin nod, while a cozy Argentinian shop dished out warm, buttery empanadas that stole our hearts.
Cherry Cricket’s green chili was rich and spicy, and Kachina’s Native American tacos easily took the prize for the day’s boldest bite. We ended at Union Station with a silky chocolate dessert that capped things off perfectly.
Our guide, Forrest, kept us entertained and engaged, weaving in stories of LoDo, Coors Field, the Oxford Hotel, and more—places we wouldn’t have discovered on our own. More than just eating, we felt like we were tasting Denver’s history and culture, one dish at a time.
This tour wraps up by 4–5 pm, leaving you full, happy, and ready to keep exploring. And obviously, we weren’t the only ones who loved this tour—just read all the five-star reviews here to find out why it’s one of Denver’s most popular tours!
Book this award-winning food tour here before it sells out!
Late Afternoon – Explore Denver’s outdoor scene
After the downtown food tour wraps up at Union Station, you’ll likely want some fresh air and a gentle walk before dinner. Luckily, two of Denver’s most relaxing parks are just a short walk away. They’re perfect for stretching your legs, unwinding with a peaceful view, and soaking up a bit of that Colorado outdoors without going far.
Commons Park
Just steps from Union Station, Commons Park is an urban green space with a laid-back vibe. It sits along the South Platte River, offering grassy lawns and riverside trails with Denver’s skyline and distant mountain peaks for scenery. Locals come here to walk their dogs, read on benches, or catch the sunset by the Millennium Bridge.
It’s a great spot to slow down and watch the city flow around you. Interestingly, the park was built on what used to be an old railyard, now transformed into a green oasis that links the city’s bustling downtown to its peaceful riverfront.
City of Cuernavaca Park
If you follow the South Platte River Trail north, you’ll find Cuernavaca Park—less manicured than Commons, but full of quiet charm. Cottonwood trees line the path, local art installations add pops of color, and you might even spot some wildlife (we’ve seen great blue herons here!).
Shaded benches and picnic tables invite you to pause and take it all in, while the river’s gentle rush offers a soothing soundtrack. Interestingly, the park is named after Cuernavaca, Mexico—Denver’s sister city—reflecting the global connections that shape the city’s spirit. It’s an easy, unhurried way to ease into the evening ahead.
Dinner – Wynkoop Brewing Company
You can’t come to Denver and not visit a craft brewery or two! As one of the USA’s most prominent beer cities, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to unique brews.
In addition to good beer, Wynkoop Brewing Company is well known for its food menu, so we happily hopped over here for dinner. They serve typical pub fare, like big juicy burgers, carnitas tacos, and even chicken and waffles (which was incredibly tasty). Paired with an IPA or beer of your choosing, this makes for one of the tastiest dinners in Denver!
They also have darts and a pool table, so we had a lot of fun just hanging out for the evening. Wynkoop Brewing is located just across from Union Station and is just a 15-minute walk from our last stop for the day.
Evening – Take some photos from the Highland Bridge
You probably crossed the Highland Bridge earlier, but it’s worth returning after dinner to see the Denver skyline lit up against the night sky. Just an 8-minute walk from Linger, this pedestrian bridge offers one of the best (and safest) spots for city views and photos. Watch as the lights of downtown shimmer over the South Platte River and the energy of Denver’s nightlife comes alive.
Keep it mellow tonight—it’ll be an early start in the morning, so enjoy the views and head back to your hotel to rest up for day two.
Related Read: Another one of our favorite USA cities is Seattle! Check out our ideal 3-day Seattle itinerary for an epic visit.
Day 2
Morning/Afternoon – Explore Rocky Mountain National Park on a full-day tour
It’s easy to get caught up in Denver’s downtown buzz and forget that one of the country’s most jaw-dropping national parks is just up the road. We almost skipped it, thinking it’d be too much for a day trip, but this full-day Rocky Mountain tour made it effortless and unforgettable.
Starting at 9 am from Union Station (we grabbed breakfast there beforehand!), we joined our guide, Aaron, whose energy was contagious from the get-go. He was friendly, funny, and incredibly knowledgeable, pointing out wildlife and sharing stories that brought the park to life.
One of the day’s highlights? Aaron spotted a herd of elk crossing the road and pulled over just in time—our cameras couldn’t click fast enough! We also saw moose, deer, and even a bald eagle soaring above.
Each stop felt like a new favorite. Lily Lake treated us to postcard-perfect views of Longs Peak, Estes Park charmed us with mountain town vibes and cute shops, and our picnic stop came with sweeping alpine views that are still stuck in our heads. The ride between stops was smooth and comfy, letting us fully soak in the experience.
With transportation, planning, and park fees all taken care of, this tour turned out to be our absolute favorite part of the trip—no stress, no worries, just pure mountain magic.
Read thousands of five-star reviews and secure this adventure 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.
Dinner/Evening – See a dinner show at Nocturne
After a full day in the mountains, wind down with an evening of smooth jazz and fine dining at Nocturne, one of Denver’s top jazz clubs. Just a 6-minute taxi ride from Union Station, this intimate venue blends live music with an elevated dinner experience that feels both timeless and effortlessly cool.
Nocturne’s jazz dinner shows run Wednesday through Sunday and feature a rotating lineup of incredibly talented musicians. As the band plays on stage, you’ll enjoy a multi-course meal crafted to match the rhythm and flow of the performance. It’s a feast for the senses—from the expertly plated dishes to the moody lighting and soulful soundscape.
The whole experience feels like stepping into another era, and it’s an unforgettable way to cap off your second night in Denver. Be sure to book in advance here, as tables fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Alternate option: Tavernetta
If you’re visiting on a Monday or Tuesday (when the jazz club is closed), or just in the mood for something a little more low-key, Tavernetta is a fantastic dinner option. Located just a 2-minute walk from Union Station, this elegant yet relaxed Italian restaurant is known for its warm ambiance, stellar service, and beautifully executed regional dishes.
From house-made pastas to perfectly grilled meats and rich risottos, every plate feels like a love letter to Italy. Pair it with a drink from their extensive list, and you’ve got a cozy, satisfying end to the day without straying far from your hotel or transport.
Making reservations here is highly recommended, as this spot is no secret among locals and visitors alike.
Related Read: Looking for more fun things to do? Check out the 15 best activities in Denver and add a few to your itinerary!
Day 3
Breakfast – Snooze
Day three kicks off with breakfast at Snooze, one of Denver’s most beloved breakfast spots—and for good reason. Located just on the edge of the RiNo Arts District, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before a morning of mural-hopping and gallery browsing.
The eggs Benedict here are a must (they offer multiple versions!), but the entire menu is packed with creative twists on classic breakfast fare. Whether you’re into sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, Snooze’s diverse options have you covered. The vibe is upbeat, the coffee’s strong, and the retro diner-style decor sets a fun tone for the day.
Morning – Your choice!
Denver’s creative spirit really shines through in its art and outdoor spaces, and this morning is all about diving into that side of the city. You’ve got two great options: wander through the vibrant RiNo Arts District or escape into the lush landscapes of the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Feeling ambitious? You could squeeze in both, though it’ll be a bit tight. Either way, you’re in for a visually rich, soul-refreshing start to the day.
Option 1: Wander through the RiNo Arts District
There’s no better place to kick off your third day than in the River North Art District (RiNo)—Denver’s most colorful and creative neighborhood. Once a gritty industrial zone, RiNo has transformed into a mural-covered haven for artists, makers, and curious wanderers.
Grab a coffee from Crema Coffee House or Improper City (bonus points for their patio vibes), then set off on a self-guided walk along Larimer Street between 25th and 32nd. You’ll find everything from massive abstract murals to political street art, and maybe even catch an artist mid-paint. Keep an eye out for the beloved Larimer Boy/Girl mural. It’s one of the most iconic pieces in the area.
It’s a neighborhood that invites you to look twice, wander slowly, and discover creativity around every corner.
Option 2: Get lost in the Denver Botanic Gardens
Craving some fresh air without committing to a full-day hike? The Denver Botanic Gardens on York Street offers a peaceful escape just 10 minutes from downtown. Spanning 23 acres, this thoughtfully curated space showcases Colorado’s native flora alongside global gardens that make you feel worlds away from the city buzz.
We wandered through winding paths, a lush tropical conservatory, and quiet corners like the serene Japanese Garden, our personal favorite. Rotating art installations and a summer amphitheater add even more variety, making this more than just a walk in the park.
Admission is $16 USD, and we easily spent two to three hours soaking it all in. It’s open daily (until 8 pm on weekdays, 7 pm on weekends), and we recommend booking tickets in advance through Viator here, especially during peak times. Just be sure you head to the York Street location—it’s the main site and by far the most popular. For a dose of nature without leaving the city, this is one of Denver’s best hidden-in-plain-sight gems.
Lunch – Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Before heading out on your afternoon tour, we made our way back downtown for an early lunch at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, just a short walk from Union Station. This spot specializes in elevated Southern comfort food, and trust us—it’s exactly the kind of hearty meal you want before an afternoon adventure.
The menu is full of soul-warming classics like fried green tomatoes, honey-dusted chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits that are worth the trip on their own. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and savory or light and fresh, there’s plenty to choose from without feeling weighed down.
Afternoon – See the best of the Denver foothills on a guided trip
After lunch, we headed out on this small-group tour to Red Rocks and the foothills, one of the easiest and most scenic ways to explore beyond the city. We chose the 1 pm departure, which gave us a laid-back morning and still got us back to Union Station by around 5 pm—just in time to unwind before dinner.
Our first stop was the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Photos don’t do it justice—those massive red rock formations feel otherworldly in person. We walked through the amphitheater seating and nearby trails, soaking in the views and imagining the epic concerts that have taken place here.
From there, the tour followed the Lariat Loop to Lookout Mountain, where we paused to take in sweeping views stretching from the Rockies to the Denver skyline. Our guide, Jason, kept the mood relaxed and informative, even making a quick detour so we could try to spot buffalo. And we did!
The afternoon wrapped up with free time in Golden, a charming town where we grabbed coffee and walked along the creek before heading back. It was a fun, scenic escape from the city that packed a lot into just a few hours.
Between the iconic sights, wildlife moments, and thoughtful pacing, it felt like we got a real taste of Colorado, all without ever feeling rushed. It was an absolute highlight of our trip to Denver!
See it for yourself—book this top-rated tour with over 1,200 five-star reviews here!
Dinner – Great Divide Brewing Co.
Spend your last evening in Denver at the most famous brewery in town – Great Divide Brewing Company! After a full day of exploring Colorado’s incredible landscape, nothing beats a cold pint of freshly brewed beer. They have multiple locations around town, but we recommend visiting the original tap house, located in Downtown Denver.
We loved the ambiance at Great Divide, detailed yet straightforward, and a laid-back, fun environment. You can often catch a live music event (oftentimes they have pretty big names!) or a weekly trivia night. While you might be tempted to drink beer for dinner, they always have food trucks here, so you have a variety of options. While we were here, they had an amazing wings truck and a Venezuelan food truck arriving the following day – yum!
Grab a few beers to go as a souvenir or sip on their award-winning brews and enjoy your last night in Denver!
Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado
Now that you have an ideal itinerary planned out, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! Downtown Denver 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. If they are still available when you go to book, they will be your best options!
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!
I can see why Denver is one of the USA’s most popular cities – it is so unique and filled with things to do! Whether you are a city person, an outdoors lover, or an art enthusiast, there is no shortage of activities in Denver. We think three days is just the right amount of time to scratch the surface and see what makes this city so loved!
If you’re looking for more epic travel destinations, see our USA blogs here! We have guides on the top things to do, where to stay, and full itineraries all over the country. Here are a few helpful blogs to inspire your travels and plan your next trip – cheers!
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