No gatekeeping. Just good vibes.
Buckle up. Whether you’re here to eat your way through the city, lace up your hiking boots, catch a live show, or sip cocktails under twinkly lights — I’ve got you covered. This is your no-fluff, good-energy-only Denver guide. Putting all my go-to spots in one place so you can have a damn good time.
Pro tip: If you’re coming to Colorado, I highly recommend skipping the city entirely and renting a cozy cabin in the mountains. But if you’re staying city-side, this guide will help you do it right. (And no, we are not heading to 16th Street Mall.)
The Perfect Day in Denver.
O1. Start Your Morning Right
Coffee + Pastries + Cute Strolls
Bakery Four – Some of the best baked goods in Denver. Croissants that will ruin you for all others.
Devil’s Food – A cozy neighborhood spot with great coffee, bomb pastries, and vintage charm.
Both spots are in cute little strips where you can take a slow stroll, pop into shops, and ease into your morning.
O2. Midday: Get Outside
(Nature Lovers, Assemble)
Option 1: The Casual Route
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (duh)
Yes, it’s famous for a reason. Check out the venue (sometimes you’ll catch a soundcheck), or hit the Red Rocks Trail — it’s short, sweet, and surrounded by jaw-dropping red rock formations.
Afterward, head into Morrison for lunch.
Grab a burger, beer, and ice cream creekside at The Cow – it’s unpretentious, charming, and hits the spot.
Option 2: The Adventurous Route
St. Mary’s Glacier
A quick drive from Denver and totally worth it. Think: alpine lake, snow patches, mountains, and major “this is Colorado” vibes.
Note: the trail is short but rocky — wear sturdy shoes.
Afterward, grab a bite and a beer in Idaho Springs. Try:
Westbound & Down Brewing Co. for great food + beer
Stroll the strip for souvenirs and small-town charm.
O3. City Adventures
(If Nature Isn’t Your Thing)
Meow Wolf – Not your typical museum. She’s weird, immersive, and built for wandering minds. Bonus points if you’re a fan of…lettuce.
Rockies Game – Catch a cheap ticket at Coors Field, enjoy a hot dog and beer with skyline views. A low-key great time.
Bar-Hop + Day Drink
- Recess Beer Garden – Chill vibes, lots of space, good drinks.
- Number Thirty Eight – Live music, food trucks, and indoor-outdoor space.
- Improper City – Coffee in the day, cocktails by night, food trucks always.
Optional: power nap.
O4. Dinner Time
(Let’s Eat, I’m a Foodie)
Denver’s food scene can be hit or miss, so stick with these tried-and-true spots. Highly recommend reservations where possible.
Larimer Square – A must. Not a restaurant, but a strip full of great food, cute shops, and twinkly lights. Perfect for pre-dinner drinks or post-dinner strolls. Top Picks on Larimer Square:
Rioja – Elevated Mediterranean. Housemade pastas, seasonal ingredients, beautiful presentation.
- Osteria Marco – Cozy, rustic Italian. Amazing house-cured meats, burrata, and Neapolitan-style pizza.
Additional Options:
Barcelona Wine Bar – Shareable plates and a dreamy wine list. Good energy. Perfect start to your night out in RiNo.
Bars you can hit after:
Federales – Throw ice shots at a bell (literally).
Larimer Lounge – Catch a live set or just vibe to house music.
Meadowlark – Divey and cool.
- Brasserie Brixton – A fun, modern take on French cuisine with a solid wine list to match. Cozy, creative, and never too fussy. After dinner, head next door to Yacht Club — a divey little gem serving up killer cocktails and (if you’re lucky) a late-night hot dog. Unexpected combo? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.
- Jovanina’s, Guard & Grace, Potager, Venice, Sushi Den, Safta
O5. After-Dinner Cocktails + Late Night Fun
Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club – Live jazz, sexy ambiance, great cocktails. Dress up a little.
Herb’s Hideout – Dive bar with live music and strong drinks.
Death & Co. – Boujee cocktails in a moody, sexy setting.
Williams & Graham – A hidden speakeasy behind a bookshelf. Classic cocktails, low lighting, intimate vibes — feels like you stumbled into the 1920s. Perfect for impressing a date or kicking off a special night.
Larimer Lounge – Already mentioned but deserves another shout for house music and edgy vibes.
Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row – Tourist trap but undeniably fun if you’re trying to dance.
Don’s Mixed Drinks – Best dive in the city. Cheap drinks, chaos. A+ time.
