Epic Denver CO Time: Explore Our Favorite Free Things In Denver!

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Large mural is part of many art installations at Art District on Santa Fe

A Fun Time in Denver Colorado USA: Walk, Explore, and Discover the Mile High City!

We’re all about free fun in Denver over here! While Colorado Springs is our home base, we love spending time in Denver Colorado USA, just an hour north of us.

Downtown Denver is packed with some of the most fun spots, and it’s also perfect for discovering free activities in Denver CO.

Visitors from near and far flock here for all the stuff to do in Denver for free, and we’re thrilled to share our favorite picks!

A few years ago, Melody’s husband, Matt, created this map as a way to explore the city without spending a dime. While many online guides charge for clues and maps, we’re all about uncovering free things to do in Denver Colorado that feel like a treasure hunt.

Join us as we explore hidden gems, colorful street art, and delicious eats that make the city come alive. Whether you’re hosting guests, planning a family outing, or just looking for an epic Denver CO time, this guide will help you experience the best free things Denver has to offer.

As locals for 26+ years, this is what we know and love—tried and true favorites we keep coming back to for an unforgettable time Denver Colorado adventure.

Ready to explore? Check out our guide to free activities in Denver Colorado below, or jump straight to the map!

Check out the Ultimate Denver walking tour below, or just skip to the map!

But first, let’s answer a few important questions!

How far is Denver from Colorado Springs?

From the north side of Colorado Springs (near the Air Force Academy) to south Denver (Park Meadows), it’s about 70 miles. The drive is a breeze thanks to the expanded I-25, the main connection between the two cities, though Hwy 83 offers a scenic alternate route.

Castle Rock, the largest city between Colorado Springs and Denver, is worth a stop! Stretch your legs with some Denver hikes at Castlewood Canyon State Park, or indulge in retail therapy at the Castle Rock Outlets, featuring dozens of popular stores.

From epic free activities in Denver Colorado to exciting detours along the way, you're in for a truly unforgettable Denver CO time.

What is Denver most popular for?

Known as the Mile High City, Denver is famous for its stunning Front Range mountain views and endless things to do.

From historical landmarks and world-class museums to craft breweries, the Denver Broncos, and vibrant art, there’s plenty of stuff to do in Denver for free or with a ticket in hand.

Red Rocks Theater

For an unforgettable time in Denver Colorado USA, don’t miss iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheater.

When there aren’t concerts, you can visit for free, climb the stairs, and take in the incredible views. It’s a fun way to experience this legendary venue without spending a cent!

With 300 days of sunshine, free activities in Denver CO are easy to enjoy.

Whether you're wandering through its walkable downtown or soaking up culture, a great Denver CO time is waiting for you.

What food is Denver famous for?

Green chile and Palisade peaches are part of Colorado’s famous agriculture.

However, it’s the Rocky Mountain oysters that have people talking—leave it to cowboys to turn bull testicles into a celebrated dish!

tacos and chips

Mister Oso queso and guac are a must have when visiting Denver.

Denver’s food scene has elevated significantly, now boasting 37 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Whether you’re into speakeasies, jazz cocktail lounges, or authentic international cuisine, there’s no shortage of free activities in Denver to pair with your culinary adventures.

Colorado’s premier magazine, 5280, consistently highlights the city’s food scene, from emerging African cuisine and food trucks to the latest speakeasies.

It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy an epic Denver CO time while exploring local flavors!

Find street art all over downtown on a Denver walking tour,

Free Activities in Denver CO: Your Ultimate Walking Adventure

Let’s talk about the perfect way to explore Denver—on foot and totally free! Forget pricey maps or guided tours; we’ve put together a walking tour that’s packed with free activities in Denver Colorado.

From vibrant murals and quirky statues to historic landmarks and maybe even a local food truck or two, it’s an unforgettable way to spend your time in Denver Colorado USA.

Around here, we’re all about finding the best free things to do in Denver because the most memorable adventures don’t have to break the bank.

Whether it’s snapping pics with larger-than-life sculptures or playing impromptu hide-and-seek with kids among the street art, there’s no shortage of free fun in Denver waiting to be discovered.

That’s why we created this ultimate Denver walking tour map, designed to help you soak up the sights while keeping your wallet happy.

It’s perfect for locals, tourists, or anyone looking for stuff to do in Denver for free.

Whenever friends and family roll into town, this is our go-to way of showing off great Denver CO attractions, and it never disappoints.

Ready for an epic Denver CO time?

Click on the blue dots to explore each stop or keep reading to take it all in, one place at a time.

Denver Urban Tour Map

Exploring on Foot—The Best Free Fun in Denver Colorado USA

I’m all about exploring Denver Colorado USA on foot—it’s my favorite way to discover little niche spots, unique places to eat, and hidden gems.

As you stroll through the city, street art pops up in the most unexpected places, like this awesome crochet-covered street pole I found!

Whether you're into Denver hikes or just want to find stuff to do in Denver for free, walking around the city is a laid-back, fun way to experience it all.

You never know what you’ll find next—always something new and exciting just around the corner.

Walking tours are one of my favorite ways to dive into a city.

You get a little adventure, a little exercise, and a whole lot of fun—all while soaking up the free activities in Denver. It’s just you, your feet, and the heart of the Mile High City waiting to be uncovered.

No rush, no fuss—just pure discovery.

Still Not Convinced?

Here’s why walking is the best free fun in Denver:

  • Wander the city streets and discover hidden gems, from vibrant murals to charming neighborhoods—one of the best free activities in Denver CO.

  • Window shop your way through quaint, locally run stores without spending a dime.

  • Adjust to Colorado’s altitude with a leisurely stroll along Denver’s flat pathways. Fresh air, no cost!

  • Enjoy free fun in Denver like street performers, public art, and live music in open spaces.

  • Skip the snacks—pack your own picnic and enjoy it in one of Denver’s many beautiful parks.

  • Follow bike routes for scenic views and uncover secret corners of the city.

  • Get in your steps while exploring Denver’s urban trails—no gear or entrance fees required.

Downtown is full of free things to do in Denver Colorado!

if you're wandering through downtown Denver, keep your eyes peeled for some hidden gems!

There’s a cool bronze marker along 16th Street Mall that marks the original site of Larimer Street—perfect for a little history moment.

And don't miss the plaque at the Molly Brown House on Pennsylvania Street, a nod to the "Unsinkable Molly Brown" herself. These are the kind of free things to do in Denver that make the city feel like one big treasure hunt.

Walking at your own pace gives you the chance to grab a coffee at a cozy café or stumble upon a quirky new spot. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy free fun in Denver with the family.

Trust me, it’s the perfect way to explore!

Time to Hunt for Some Free Fun in Denver

Starting Point

Chilling outside the RTD station, first stop on the Denver walking tour

From Colorado Springs, start your journey at the RTD light rail station at 18th and California. Riding the light rail into the city is always fun, and it takes parking out of the equation.

For kids, the light rail is a fun departure from the usual mundane car ride. Grab your mobile ticket online. We suggest getting an unlimited day pass.

Park at any of RTD’s park-and-ride locations outside the city (as far south as Ridgeview) and enjoy the ride in.

*Take selfies at each stop. At the end of the day, it’s fun to scroll through your pics and share your free fun in Denver—your friends will be asking for recommendations!

Stop 1 - Lincoln Street Finds

Lincoln Street

1855 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO

The mural on the parking garage at 1855 Lincoln Street is the perfect place to stop, take a picture and mark the start of your hike.

Students from Downtown Denver Expeditionary School painted this mural in 2018 alongside artists from the So-Gnar Creative Division. These Denver-based artists and creators use color and vibrancy through art to add value to the community.

Their work is all over the city, bright displays of cultural art that people from all walks of life can enjoy.

*If art is your thing, check out So-Gnar’s many displays all over Denver. It’s one of the many free things Denver has to offer, and no matter the season, this brightly colored parking garage will bring cheer and delight!

Standing on the steps of the grand Civic Center Park steps

Stop 2 - Colorado State Capitol and Civic Center Park

Keep walking south down Lincoln toward the Colorado State Capitol Building complex and Civic Center Park.

Civic Center Park

101 14th Ave, Denver, CO

In the summer, the Civic Center Park is alive with color with over 25,000 square feet of flower beds. Creators of the Civic Center Park began looking at Washington DC for inspiration in the late 1890s.

As with many things, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. The park was completed in 1919. Events, concerts, and other large events occur regularly in this 12-acre city park.

The Denver Nuggets big win had a special celebration in this area in 2023!

Spend time exploring the grounds, monuments, and statues. A large fenced-in dog park allows owners to let their four-legged friends run free.

The Colorado Veterans Monument, the Voorhies Memorial, and the Bronco Buster Statue are all within the park complex.

Whether you’re into culture, history, or just a beautiful stroll, the Civic Center Park offers free things to do in Denver that are perfect for anyone looking to spend a little time outdoors.

NOTE! You might spot a few tent cities around Denver’s Capitol building. No worries though—the city’s been working hard to improve the area, with long-term housing solutions in place to help those most in need. It’s all part of making sure everyone has a safe and accessible space in the city.

Colorado state Capitol Building

Colorado State Capitol

200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO

Consider spending more time in Denver, Colorado USA at the Colorado State Capitol. This free tour is one of the best free things Denver has to offer—perfect for family and friends!

Bonus: The walking tour wraps up back at the Capitol, with the last tour at 1 pm daily.

The Colorado State Capitol, built in the 1890s and finished in 1894, is a beauty made of white granite, topped with a dome covered in copper panels gilded with gold leaf from a Colorado mine.

LOCAL TIP! Want to brag you’ve been exactly one mile above sea level? Head to the west side of the building and stand on the fifteenth step where the sign marks “ONE MILE ABOVE SEA LEVEL.” It’s a cool way to experience a little piece of Denver history!

Love this City mural near Levin Deli

Stop 3 - Super Sized Art and Murals

Stop three is full of stuff to do in Denver for free—check out the cool spots waiting for you!

Bronco Buster Statue

Located in the Civil Center Park, downtown Denver

Colorado native American artist A. Phimister Proctor created this statue in the 1990s, using his art to tell the story of Denver, a booming Western city. To see more of his work, head to the Denver Art Museum.

Once you find the Bronco Buster Statue, keep walking south across 14th Avenue for a visit to the Denver Art Museum.

Big Sweet sculpture by the Denver Public Library

Denver Art MUSEUM/Denver Public Library Complex

100 W 14th Ave. Pkwy. Denver, Colorado

The walk to 12th Avenue is filled with public art. Get your phone out and get your selfie game on! The Big Sweep is a great place to get that family photo.

As you pose, remind your kids they’re lucky household chores don’t include these ginormous cleaning tools.

The Yearling sculpture

Look for The Yearling, a unique 21 foot structure on W 14th Ave and Acoma Plaza. There is something off with this enormous red chair. While that pony looks miniature, the pony is 6 feet tall!

First installed in New York City’s Central Park, this crazy looking statue is now a permanent and very popular part of Denver’s public art.

The large angular reddish-orange steel sculpture surrounding the library and museum was created by artist Lao Tzu, called Mark di Suvero.

Mama and her baby lounging in Denver

FIeld of Sleepy Cows - Scottish Angus Cow & CAlf

100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO

Look for a field of bulls at stop #3—perfect for some free fun in Denver!

Whether you're snapping pics, playing hide-and-seek, or just enjoying a little game time, these sculptures make for a fun break.

The 13-foot mama and her 10-foot baby, created by Colorado sculptor Dan Ostermiller, are a unique sight, commissioned by a local rancher from Larkspur to highlight his own herd.

Love this City Mural

123 West 12th Ave, Denver, CO

Just behind the cow statues on the side of Leven Deli, a one story brick building, spy a small heart mural that is part of the “Love this City” Mural project. Denver artist Pat Milbery created three large Denver murals. Aside from the obvious love of his city, Milbery included hearts, their geometric shapes representing the many layers of love, from joy to pain.

NOTE! Leven Deli serves up some amazing sandwiches and soups. Grab a bite to eat here before hitting up more free fun in Denver.

With so many free things Denver has to do, hopping on posts sounds about right for this kid!

Stop 4 - East to West Source Point Half Faced Statue

201 W Colfax Ave, Denver, CO

To find the East to West Source Point statue, skip down Bannock Street or double back to the Webb Municipal Building—because who doesn’t love retracing their steps?

When you get to the South Entry Plaza, look out for two giant gray marble heads chilling in front of the Wellington Municipal Building.

These aren’t just any heads—they represent the Greek god Janus, who had a thing for looking both ways: past and future. Peek through the 6-foot window smack dab in the center of the heads, and you’ll spot striated layers that symbolize Denver’s layers of history—talk about a visual timeline!

It’s just one of those cool free things to do in Denver that’ll make you stop and think—while you explore the city’s creative side!

fire-uniform.jpg

Stop 5 - Historic Firehouse Museum

1326 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO

Take a stroll down 14th Street to 1326 Tremont Place, where you’ll find the Denver Firefighters Museum nestled in a historic firehouse that’s practically bursting with stories.

For a truly memorable time Denver Colorado has to offer, this spot is a must-see.

Picture yourself stepping into a piece of the past—this firehouse, built in 1909, lets you explore Denver’s fiery history and the heroic pioneers who kept the city safe. It’s like a time machine, but with cool fire trucks and a peek at old firefighting gear!

Open Tuesday to Friday, it’s a fun, family-friendly stop (and while the admission isn’t free, trust me, it’s well worth it).

NOTE! Not far from here is Fire Station No. 3, Denver’s oldest, still in action since 1931. It’s a living piece of history! Head over to 2500 N Washington St to see it for yourself.

Before you wrap up your visit, make sure to swing by the nearby Pioneer Monument fountain at Broadway and Colfax.

Built in 1911, this beautiful fountain is a tribute to Denver’s colorful, diverse history. Take a moment to enjoy its beauty—it’s the perfect way to cap off an afternoon full of discovery and fun!

Stop 6: The Big Blue Bear

700 14th St, Denver, CO

Step out the Historic Fire Museum door and head up 14th Street to your next stop on the free fun in Denver map—the iconic Big Blue Bear!

Head to The Big Blue Bear Page for fun and crazy facts about this one of a kind bear!

While it might be hard to miss the giant blue bear, you’ll probably spot the Denver Convention Center first.

The bear, affectionately known as "I See What You Mean," peeks into the convention center lobby with curiosity.

Standing 40 feet tall and weighing a whopping 10,000 pounds, it’s not just a cool sculpture—it’s a symbol of Colorado’s natural spirit and an homage to the things that make time Denver Colorado so special.

Created by Lawrence Argent, it was inspired by his son’s favorite toys.

For a true taste of free things to do in Denver, snap a pic with Big Blue Bear—especially during sporting events when the bear is decked out in full Colorado spirit!

Stop 7: Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Dancing Garden

1736 Speer Blvd #1848, Denver, CO

Next stop?

One of those fun free things to do in Denver—the Denver Center Performing Arts Sculpture Garden!

Head down 14th to Champa and keep your eyes peeled for two towering dancers.

These 60-foot sculptures (weighing a cool 25 tons each) are impossible to miss.

Bonus: speakers blast "Let's Dance" on repeat, so feel free to join in for some impromptu choreography.

As you stroll through the garden, take in the sights and sounds of time Denver Colorado—where art, music, and a little bit of whimsy come together.

It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs and maybe even dance a little!

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is always lively with shows, plays, and concerts.

Snag last-minute tickets online for a steal, and enjoy live street music near the Buell Theater.

A few blocks away, Larimer Street dazzles with bright white lights.

It’s undergoing a big renovation, but you’ll still find plenty of charm. You’ll also circle back here on stop 9 for more free fun in Denver later on!

all-together-now-sculpture.jpg

Find the yellow bench and then look up!

All Together NOw Art Piece

1401 Curtis Street, Denver, CO

Located right by cocktail hotspot Corner Office stands a tall colorful piece of art that spells out “All Together Now.”

There’s a yellow bench right behind it to take a quick rest before heading on! Make it a longer break and head on in for one of the Corner Office famous drinks.

Stop 8: Mining Exchange Building

Head down Curtis to 15th, then take a left. Keep an eye out for a giant statue of an Old Prospector clutching a massive gold nugget—this guy’s been here for over 130 years!

Originally perched atop the Mining Exchange Building, he’s now guarding the entrance to Brooks Tower.

Back in the 1890s, a group of pioneers created the Colorado Mining Stock Exchange and built the original building, but it was torn down in 1963 to make way for a fancy 42-story tower (which, fun fact, is now totally overshadowed by the One River North building).

A little Denver history, right in the heart of the city, and a must-see on your list of free things to do in Denver with family!

Stop 9: Lower Downtown aka LODO

Larimer street aglow in winter

As you continue down 15th, you’ll find yourself on Larimer Street, one of the coolest spots in LoDo.

The street is lined with dazzling white lights that twinkle year-round, making it one of the most photographed places in Denver, especially when the sun sets and the lights really pop. It’s a magical place for sensational photos at night!

Illusions Museum in Denver

While you're here, stop by Rocket Fizz for some fun. With hundreds of taffy flavors, bubbly drinks, and British chocolates, it’s a sweet treat that’ll keep the kids excited to keep walking.

If you’re in the mood for something savory, head to Tamayo for their delicious chicken tinga enchiladas.

Free things to do in Denver can include taking in the art, so don’t miss the rotating sculptures in the area, which add a unique artistic flair.

And if you’re in the mood for a little more exploration, the nearby Illusions Museum is a fun stop to test your perception with optical illusions and interactive exhibits.

This part of town is perfect for wandering, eating, and snapping photos—truly one of the best free activities in Denver Colorado,

Running toward fun things in Denver.

Stop 10: 16th Street Mall

16th Street Mall

Explore 16th Street Mall on this next stop of the Denver walking tour.

You’ll turn left to walk toward Wynkoop Street and Union Station. The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian walkway (with the occasional Mall Ride bus—it’s free!).

There’s tons to see and do on the mall, and you can find some great restaurants, stores, and diversions.

Hanging out at Tattered Cover Bookstore on the Denver walking tour

Tattered cover Bookstore

Make a stop at the Tattered Cover Bookstore, a true Denver legend, and right across the street is Union Station. You might want to plan a hour for this bookstore. Its little nooks and crannies are perfect to curl up with a coffee (shop in house) and a book or three.

Coors Field

You can see Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies. For more steps, head down Wynkoop and check it out. Opened in 1995, Coors Field most recent claim to fame was hosting the 2021 MLB All-Star Game.

If that’s too much walking, grab that selfie in front of the iconic Union Station sign and head back down the mall.

*Nearby Selfie Museum has become a favorite tween/teen stop. At $25/person/hour, your kids can take as many iconic selfies as they’d like.

Bonus point – At the other end of Wynkoop between 15th and 16th is Upstairs Circus Lodo—a place to make crafts and enjoy wine and beer. Check it out if you have time.

downtown-denver.jpg

Denver Millennium Bridge

Stop 11: Daniels and Fisher Tower for Denver skyline views

Find your way back to the 16th Street Mall and start walking back the way you came.

On the way, you’ll pass the Daniels and Fisher Tower—a long skinny clock tower of a building. In 1910, this was the tallest building between the Mississippi River and California. Plan a few hours for a clock tower tour if you’re interested in learning more about this iconic feature.

Getting in and up to the observation deck is something this author hasn’t had the chance to do. If you get in and up, please leave a comment and clue!

Walk across the Denver Millennium Bridge, the world’s first cable stayed bridge built in 1999, this bridge is part of Denver’s architectural famous designs. It connects 16th Street Mall with Union Station commons.

Ice Cream near Union Station

Stop 12: Union Station

Once you hit California, you’ll be near the 16th and California Station or you can walk up California to 18th to get back to the station you started at.

Check the RTD schedules for the best time, or (pro tip) take a train out of Union Station and skip the walk back down the mall.

This area has tons of places to eat. Check out some CoHH favorites:

  • Thirsty Lion Gastropub:

    We had Mother’s Day brunch here one year. The Bloody Mary’s were enormous and breakfast portions were hearty!

    1605 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO

  • The Kitchen Bistro:

    One of our favorite Denver restaurants, make sure to make room in your wallet and stomach for this food paradise.

    1560 Wazee St, Denver, CO

  • Snooze, an AM Eatery:

    Legendary for the size of its pancakes and wait times, this is one breakfast spot that’s worth the wait.

    1701 Wynkoop St #150, Denver, CO

  • Milkbox Creamery:

    Located inside Union Station, take your pick of dozen or so ice creams. Boozy shakes and vegan options for the adventurous and healthy!

    1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO

Posing on top of Denver State Capitol Building

Stop 13- Colorado State Capitol

We wrap up the Denver walking tour at the iconic Colorado State Capitol Building! If you haven’t yet, take the tour—it’s filled with cool history and offers a rooftop 360° view of the city. Be sure to check the website for seasonal updates!

The best part? Climbing those steep steps to the gold dome for incredible views of the city and the Denver CO time to take it all in, especially the Rockies and skyline!

Ice Cream and art in RiNo

Fun Places to See in Denver

As you explore Denver, there’s so much to see within walking distance, with plenty of free things to do in Denver along the way. If you’re craving more, consider renting an e-bike or electric scooter to reach even more hidden gems.

A must-see is RiNo, the River North Art District. This vibrant area is packed with amazing murals, great bars, breweries, and local food spots. RTD has several stops here, so whether you bike, walk, or drive, it’s easy to make your way to this creative hotspot!

Enjoy rotating art exhibits at the Lighthouse Artspace in Denver

Little Blue Backpack has the best one day RiNo tour, giving you tons of options for picture taking as well as beer tasting.

After taking this innovative walking tour of Denver, here are 61 things to do in Denver.

Having lived near this amazing city for 25 years, we can verify that the sky’s the limit of things for free things to do in Denver with family.

For a fun spin on Denver hikes, Chris Englert’s Denver urban hikes take you on every trail and sidewalk of the Mile High City.

Denver Botanic Gardens

1007 York Street

Denver’s Botanic Gardens are a must-see! Spend a few hours wandering through the lush greenery, from the stunning greenhouse to the outdoor exhibits with Colorado’s native plants.

In summer, enjoy live music under the stars, and during Christmas, the light show is pure magic. It’s a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it for that one-of-a-kind holiday experience!

Museum of Illusions

951 16th St Mall

Grab your camera and head to the Denver Illusions Museum with your friends and family—it’s the perfect spot for an hour (or two) of fun, memory-making, and some pretty wild photos. Your brain will be tricked into seeing things that aren’t quite what they seem.

The museum features numerous exhibits, but the tunnel was the standout for my teenage daughter and her friend. If you’re planning a visit, try to go during the week.

Weekends can get busy, and while reservations are available, the flex ticketing (great if you’re unsure of your exact timing) can sometimes mean longer wait times.

PRO TIPS!

  • Don’t rush through! Take your time snapping photos—you’ll want to revisit them later.

  • After the museum, treat yourself to something delicious. Trombau Bakery, just across the street, has the most outrageous green chili croissants, or head to Mellow Mushroom down the street for pizza that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

  • If you’re doing the Denver scavenger hunt, the museum makes an excellent stop before or after Union Station.

We went at Christmas, and the festive vibes added an extra layer of magic. The museum halls (and the streets outside) were decked out in twinkling lights and holiday cheer—it was the perfect seasonal outing.

Whether you’re looking for a unique family activity, a fun date idea, or just a way to wow your Instagram followers, the Denver Illusions Museum is a must-see. My group loved it so much they wished there was a second floor!

A delicious scoop of vegan chocolate ice cream at iIttle Man Ice Cream.

Good Food for a Hungry Walker

Illegal Burger

1512 Larimer Street, Denver CO 80202 303-634-1300

You can’t go wrong with any one of the burgers. BUT the fry sampler with homemade dipping sauces is a must!

Hopdoddy

1747 Wynkoop Street Denver CO

Our favorite burger at Hopdoddy is the Goodnight Good Cause, a burger laden with jalapeños, caffeinated BBQ sauce, and Doddy Mayo. A must on the menu is the green chili queso fries. Any of the milkshakes are exceptional.

Little Man Ice Cream

2620 16th St, Denver, CO

Little Man serves the freshest homemade ice cream, novelties, and other scrumptious treats from an iconic landmark, their 28-foot-tall milk can. With a large outdoor patio and chairs, choose from several homemade flavors; delicious vegan options for allergies.

Grab a doughnut or four at Voodoo Doughnuts

Mono Mono *Hot Korean Fried Chicken

1550 Blake St, Denver, CO

Mono Mono is a regular stop for my kids. Whether you get the kimchi fries or the Mono combo with sauce on all, order a large drink and enjoy some sassy spice.

Mellow Mushroom

1201 16th St Mall Suite 108, Denver CO 80202

Known for a myriad of hand tossed pies, get the Holy Shiitake Pie if you love your veggies. Gluten free, vegetarian options for the refined eater.

5280 Burger

500 16th Street, Suite 160, Denver CO

Over the top hamburgers like the Boss Hog that features Angus beef topped with pulled pork or the Ring of Fire decked with habaneros and serranoes.

Voodoo Doughnut

1520 East Colfax Ave, Denver, CO and 98 South Broadway, Denver, CO

Oregon’s famous Voodoo doughnuts have found their way to Denver, Colorado. With two locations to pick from, grab one or a dozen of these confections.

Enjoying an fantastic spring day in Denver, Colorado

Tips for a Great Day in Denver, Colorado

Dealing with the altitude

Denver is one mile above sea level - 5,280’ to be exact. When visiting from sea level, you might experience some altitude issues within the first 48 hours of your trip.

Being prepared and hydrated while in Denver can help shake off the headache, heavy legs and fatigue elevation causes.

While this isn’t one of those Denver hikes leaving you breathless, following these beginners hiking tips will make your free fun a lot more fun.

Hydration is key to keeping altitude common altitude symptoms at bay. Bring along a comfortable daypack loaded with water, snacks, chapstick and lotion. Throw in a few extra layers. When the sun sets, even on hot summer days, the cool mountain air can feel downright chilly!

We love the Osprey Daylite daypack. Easy to pack and use traveling, this little backpack can hold a bundle!

For those doing the Denver walking tour with kids, have them carry their own snacks and water. Add in a few pieces of candy to tame the grumbling.

What to Wear Exploring Free Activities in Denver CO

We take pride in our casual dress status. If being fancy is your thing, no problem. You might stand out as as tourist but we’ll not judge!

No matter what style of clothing you enjoy, make sure to bring and wear layers. Wear comfy shoes. You’ll be logging at least 5 miles if you follow the free map.

If you’re planning on doing some Denver hikes, check out what to wear hiking Colorado trails. A few key pieces will help you feel comfortable on your Colorado trip.

More fun things to do near Denver

For things to do near Denver, Colorado, plan a day or two in Colorado Springs. Known as Olympic City USA, there are so many fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids or just as adults. It’s an easy drive between Denver and Colorado Springs. Hop in your car and drive the 63 miles from Denver to Colorado Springs.

Add some great hiking fun at Castlewood Canyon, a state park about halfway between the two cities. Or tackle the Challenge Incline at Philip S Miller park in Castle Rock.

In Colorado Springs, visit #1 US Park Garden of the Gods or take a drive up Pikes Peak mountain. As our home city, we created the Ultimate Guide to Things to do with kids in Colorado Springs. Plan on a hour drive between Colorado Springs and Denver.

Explore Castlewood Canyon diverse trails,

Denver Hikes

The 3rd most visited National Park in the US, Rocky Mountain National Park, is 90 minute drive from Denver.

  • Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is a dream no matter if it’s winter snowshoeing or summer trekking. Elk roam all over the park, rutting season being quite an adventure to watch in September. You’ll need an reservation and pay for a pass to get in. It’s worth it, we promise!

  • A quick 30 minute drive south of Denver takes you to one of Colorado’s hidden gems, Castlewood Canyon. Take your binoculars for an afternoon of bird watching. With 2300 acres and 14 trails to explore, this park is brilliant in fall with brilliantly colored scrub oak and aspen trees.

  • We love these 9 dynamite Denver hikes that take you to awesome state parks, glacier lakes, Boulder’s Flatirons, and more.

Had a blast exploring Denver?

There are so many fun spots to discover!

Drop us a comment on your favorite place or one we should check out next. And if you’re hunting for more stuff to do in Denver for free, we’ve got plenty of ideas to share!

Celebrating Denver’s Avalanche Ice Hockey team win under a brilliant rainbow.

DenverMelody Monberg