What To Do In Denver:
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: An absolute MUST when visiting Denver. Definitely attend a concert or event here if you can, otherwise, the views are still amazing for a day trip. There is free parking available, it is dog friendly, and no tickets necessary if you are just walking around. On concert days, the Amphitheatre closes after lunch, so plan your trip accordingly.
- Denver Union Station: You dont need to spend much time in here, but the views are beautiful to check out. There are a bunch of coffee shops and restaurants inside if you want to enjoy a meal there. Highly recommend brunch at Snooze if you can.
- Larimer Square: Historic district in Denver. There are a ton of restaurants & shopping in this strip. Visiting at nighttime is beautiful with all of the twinkling lights.
- Molly Brown House: Tour of the Victorian home of Titanic survivor. We did not make this tour on our trip, but would love to check it out on a return trip to Denver!
Tip #2 No Its Not Just You Denver Hotels Are Really Expensive
A lot of people come to Denver thinking the town will make for a great budget vacation destination. That may have been true a decade ago, but these days Denver is one of the most popular business and travel locations in the United States.
Prices for Denver accommodation reflect the citys popularity, so its pretty much impossible to find any true budget hotels in Denver.
A good deal in Denver these days is pretty much any hotel in Denver under $250/night. In fact, there really isnt even a single neighborhood in Denver where you can find truly budget hotel stays, although the Capitol Hill area comes closest.
Denver is the most expensive part of the state by far. If youre on a budget and have the flexibility to check out other destinations in Colorado, consider visiting one of the many other places to see in Colorado instead. There are a lot of activities to do in Colorado beyond just Denver!
Central Business District Where To Stay In Denver For Nightlife
If youre a night owl interested in partying in dancing, then the Central Business District is THE place for you!
The Central Business District is right near LoDo in Downtown Denver and a great place for all types of travelers. Staying here means youll be surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, museums and everything in between at all times. If you want to try some exciting activities, you can go to the Platte River and try some paddle boarding, for example!
Dont forget to check out the Downtown Aquarium and Denver Art Museum while youre here, as well as the Denver Beer Trail.
Convinced? Here are the best hotels in the Central Business District that I picked for you:
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Hotels Near Me: Aloft Denver Downtown
Aloft Hotels are known for their boutique vibes, casual atmosphere, and cocktail bars that infuse local flavor. The Aloft Denver Downtown, with its W XYZ bar and pool tables, caters to people who want to have a good time. Guests can spend Tuesday nights dancing to live music at the hotels W XYZ Night Out events without ever leaving the hotel. For the environmentally conscious, the hotel offers the option to forgo housekeeping services with its Green Initiatives program. The hotels fun decor is the perfect place to throw a bridal shower, holiday party, or bachelorette party.
800 15th Street, Denver, CO, Phone: 303-623-3063
Five Points And Rino Where To Stay In Denver For Nightlife
Five Points and the River North Arts District is located just to the Northeast of Lower Downtown. It was known as the Harlem of the West, which was a traditionally African American area in the early 20th century.
One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, first settled in the 1850s, it is a great place to come for anyone interested in the history of Denver.
In recent years, it has become one of the fastest developing neighborhoods in the entire city, massively increasing its appeal to tourists. Soul food eateries, coffeehouses, craft breweries, bars, and pubs intertwine with historic theatres and ballrooms.
While not featuring many attractions specifically designed for tourists, the Denver Central Market is well worth a visit. An open-air Food hall and market selling meat, fish, pizzas, baked goods, and fresh produce, is a great way to get a feel for the traditional cuisine and culture of this part of Denver.
The festivals held throughout the year in Five Points then enhance this experience even further, for those lucky enough to be visiting when they take place.
The Five Points Jazz Festival takes place each May, with performances in both the streets and historic venues, celebrating the history of Jazz music in the city. Meanwhile, the draws thousands of visitors to the city to celebrate the history of African Americans, with parades, performers, and street vendors.
Best places to stay in Five Points /RiNo:
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The Red Farmhouse Bed And Breakfast
The Red Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast is a lovely country-style guesthouse nestled amongst five acres of ponderosa pines in East Parker. Located just a few minutes from Southlands and downtown Parker, the bed and breakfast features comfortable guest rooms with private bathrooms, amenities such as flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet, and an inviting lobby for relaxing and socializing with other guests.
A library full of books, DVDs, and board games is available for guests to enjoy and a crackling fire is lit in the lobby in winter and offers an ideal spot to relax with a book. A full hot, homemade breakfast is served each morning in the sunny dining room, and a fire pit in the backyard can be used for toasting marshmallows in the summer months.
11147 E. Bronco Drive, Parker, CO 80138, 303-840-6235
Lunch In Central Market
At the end of our fabulous eTuk tour we were dropped in RiNo a former industrial neighbourhood. If you arrive on foot its just a ten minute walk from LoDo . RiNo Art District has morphed from an old industrial area into a creative district which is packed with vibrant street art, galleries, restaurants and microbreweries. RiNo is a hotbed of hip.
We lunched in Central Market, a gourmet marketplace and food hall located in a beautifully restored 1920s building. Youll find a wide choice from pizza, sandwiches and salads to coffee, chocolate and ice cream. Theres also a bar serving beer, wine and cocktails. I can recommend the delicious vegan curry from Green Seed which I enjoyed sat in the sunshine outside with a healthy fruit shake.
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Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown
We have actually not stayed at the Hotel Indigo, but the location is ideal, the reviews are outstanding and we think it would make a great base for a weekend in Denver!
The chic hotel is located just a 5-minute walk to Union Station A Line but guests really love it for the stylish ambiance! Find out more!
Luxury: Updated Denver Hideout
Luxury isnt exactly what you look for in South Broadway. However, this entire holiday home is luxurious in the sense of space and furnishings. Youll have your own space and can unwind after a long day by sinking into your sofa for a film night. The home has everything you need, including a dishwasher, wifi, and cable TV.
To find luxury in SoBo, we suggest looking at rental options like this and apartments on VRBO. You wont get the hotel experience, but youll find plenty of upscale properties. VRBO
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Things To Do In Five Points
Five Points is multicultural and packed with entertainment. This historic district is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Denver with a great music scene. You can enjoy the nightlife along Welton Street, a laidback restaurant and cafe culture, and many exciting attractions.
Five Points is an important suburb for the citys African American community and the Black American West Museum is one of the most popular attractions that details the story of African-Americans in Denver.
Five Points is also within walking distance of Coors Field and the River North Art District, so you wont miss out on the main things to do either. It is home to many cultural attractions and the nightlife is also second to none, and if you like indie and hip hop, look no further.
The Alps Boulder Canyon Inn
The Alps Boulder Canyon Inn is an award-winning boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of scenic Boulder Canyon. Offering an unforgettable Boulder experience, the Inn features luxurious accommodations, excellent cuisine, and outstanding service. Surrounding by Boulder’s magnificent mountain parks and just a short stroll from downtown Boulder and all its attractions, the Inn is an ideal place for both business and leisure travelers to take advantage of everything the town has to offer.
Luxurious guest rooms feature king or queen sized beds dressed in plush linens, private bathrooms with showers and baths, working fireplaces and flat-screen televisions with cable TV, and special touches such as deluxe bath and spa amenities and Godiva bedside chocolates. Some rooms enjoy signature private whirlpool tubs for two and secluded balconies with stunning mountain views. A hearty breakfast is served each morning, and complimentary beverages, afternoon tea, and an assortment of homemade treats, sweets, and cakes are available throughout the day.
38619 Boulder Canyon Drive, Boulder, CO 80302, Phone: 303-444-5445
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Denver Itinerary Day One
Morning Downtown and Larimer Square
Start your day off reasonably early with breakfast at a Denver Institution, Snooze, in historic Union Station.
After you have stuffed yourself with their famous pancakes, Eggs Benedict, or whatever else you chose from their extensive menu, its time to explore LoDo or Lower Downtown for you out-of-towners.
LoDo is home to the massive behemoth of a bookstore, Tattered Cover, where you can pick up a new or used copy of pretty much any book your heart desires.
Next head to Larimer Square to check out the stores there, but mostly to ogle the restored red brick warehouses strung with fairy lights that are now home to various stores, restaurants, and bars.
Heading further into downtown, walk or catch the free bus down the pleasant 16th Street Mall, where there are street performers in summer.
If you want to do any shopping during your visit, this is the place to do it. At the other end of downtown are Civic Center Park and the State Capitol which you can visit on a free tour.
There are loads of options for lunch but I would recommend grabbing some excellent Mexican food at either Illegal Petes, DCorazon, or Rio Grande which is famous for its outdoor patio and giant frozen margaritas.
Afternoon Hit a Bike Trail
After a morning of awesome eats, its time to burn it off. Grab a city bike from one of the many bike docking points around the city and hit one of the bike trails that follow the river.
How To Get To Denver Colorado
The first step in planning a trip to Denver, Colorado is deciding how to get there. Most Denver visitors arrive by plane via the Denver International Airport .
The airport is serviced by more than 20 airlines that have routes to more than 200 destinations. Start your search for the best prices on airfare at our go-to resource for airline tickets, SkyScanner!
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How Many Days Should I Stay In Denver
We think 3 days in Denver allows just enough time to experience the absolute best of the city! On a 3-day trip to Denver visitors can enjoy the best city sights, as well as venture beyond the urban limits to nearby attractions. Travelers spending a long weekend in Denver can use our 3-Day Denver Itinerary to easily plan their trip.
That said, if you are trying to plan One Day in Denver or need ideas for a Denver 5-Day Itinerary, we have tips for you as well! At the end of the post, we offer suggestions for visiting Denver in one day and how to plan longer stays in Colorado. Additionally, we provide advice for how to get there, where to stay and what to pack for your Denver trip.
Pro Tip: Get organized for your Denver Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables!
Budget: Courtyard By Marriott Denver
Remember when we said Cherry Creek was where to find luxury accommodation in Denver? There arent many budget-friendly options because the neighborhood has either residential properties or five or four-star hotels.
Luckily, the Courtyard by Marriott Denver is the perfect budget choice. It is less than a ten-minute drive away from the center of Cherry Creek. The hotel is situated just south of the neighborhood in Cory-Merrill. However, it is well worth saving money and staying on the outskirts. Plus, it is just a twenty-minute hop on the bus if you dont drive or want to pay for a taxi.
The hotel itself has excellent facilities, including an indoor pool, gym, business center, and hot tub. The Courtyard by Marriott is where no sacrifices are necessary. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
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The Perfect 3 Days In Denver Itinerary
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.
Also, we are living in strange and unsettling times so please make sure to check local guidelines before traveling to this destination, as I haven’t updated individual posts with current travel information because this changes so often.
How would you like to spend 3 days in Denver? If it is a destination you havent previously considered, let me change your mind with this detailed Denver Itinerary.
Denver. The Mile High City. The gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountains and a city with more sunshine days per year than Florida .
Denver was once home to Wild West sensibilities steakhouses and cowboys but now it is more like the Austin or Portland of the Rockies. These days, Denver is hip and happening and is a must for any Colorado itinerary.
Denver may not be an obvious choice when looking for a U.S. City to visit, especially next to the likes of San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, New York, etc. but Denver has so much to offer a visitor.
Especially a visitor who, like me, loves good beer and outdoor adventures. You should definitely visit Denver, and 3 days in Denver is the perfect taster.
This three days in Denver itinerary also covers some of Denvers best neighborhoods to visit.
Hold on to your seats folks, and get ready to get excited to spend 3 days in Denver!
Top Things To Do In Cherry Creek
- Explore the Golden Triangle Creative District, home to art galleries, museums, landmarks and more.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in Cheesman Park, a sprawling green space in downtown, or the Denver Botanic Gardens.
- Visit the home of the unsinkable Molly Brown, an American philanthropist and socialite who survived the sinking of the Titanic.
- Enjoy a Light Show and meditation at the International Church of Cannabis in Denver.
- Pancakes, eggs, bacon oh my! Enjoy one of the best breakfasts in Denver at Jelly.
- Enjoy Southern-style American fare at Sassafras American Eatery.
- Eat well at Bennys Mexican Restaurant, which specializes in Mexican fare with a Denver twist.
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Bonus : Best Hotels Near Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport is the main airport of the city and the place where youll be landing if youre arriving to the city by plane. The airport is located 23 miles / 37 km from Downtown, which is quite some distance , so booking a hotel room thats close to the airport might save you some precious time and sleep if you have a very early/late flight.
If you decide to do so, here are the 3 best Denver airport hotels :
- The Westin Denver International Airport Heres my recommendation for luxury travelers that want to be super close to the airport! It awaits with a 4-star service and its right at the airport, so it doesnt get better than this!
- Quality Inn & Suites Denver International Airport This is a great mid-range place located 9 km from the airport. A cool perk is that they have an airport shuttle that you can use such a great plus!
- Denver Airport Cornerstay This property is very affordable and its located 8.8 km away from the airport. Its a cute and comfy homestay thats just perfect for a comfortable nights sleep!
Yay, you have reached the end of my complete guide on Denver accommodation! I hope you found this post useful and I hope you already found your dream place in one of my lists above.
Are you heading to Denver soon? Do you have any other questions or concerns? Let me know in the comments below and Ill gladly help!
Happy travels,
Cherry Creek Best Place To Stay In Denver On A Budget
In addition to its central location and close proximity to Capitol Hills incredible history, Cherry Creek is also the best area to stay in Denver for budget backpackers and cost-conscious travellers.
Within this downtown district, travellers and tourists can find some of the best deals and options for accommodations. Whether youre looking for a lively and social hostel or a chic boutique hotel, Cherry Creek is bursting with options that wont break the bank.
Love to eat? Cherry Creek is for you! This part of town is packed with delicious dishes and culinary options from around the world. Whether youre craving salty or sweet, spicy or savoury, youll find it in Cherry Creek.
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