Denver

Places you can’t miss in Denver

Red Rocks Amphitheater

In June 2019, we had a great long weekend in Denver, Colorado for my birthday! We were lucky to meet up with great friends and take their recommendations. Knowing young locals is an asset in finding the best places to spend your time.

Dream Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

My number one recommendation is to take the time to drive out to Rocky Mountain National Park. It is absolutely incredible and worth your time, every time. We rented a car for our trip, so we wouldn’t be limited to the city. The park was about a 90-minute drive from Denver, plus you have to drive a bit once you enter the grounds. We took a day trip, but I so wish we could have stayed several days. Next time, maybe we’ll rent a cabin or stay at the spooky Stanley Hotel.

Nymph Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

A one-day pass is $25 per car. A seven-day pass is $35 per car.

We hiked the Nymph/Dream/Emerald Lake trail and definitely felt the altitude gain, but the views were spectacular. It was wonderful to be rewarded by nature after our efforts. We also may have stopped for cherry cider and a slice of pie on the way back to town…

Union Station, Downtown Denver

Once you return to the city, Union Station is a beautiful place to relax. The renovated station still functions as a train stop, but also houses restaurants, a bar, a hotel and shops. We visited the coffee and ice cream shop where I had an excellent cone of Salted Oreo ice cream.

Denver Botanic Garden

$12.50 per adult, free parking

We visited the Denver Botanic Gardens at the perfect time. In June, every garden was colorful, lush and blooming. The weather was beautiful and encouraged us to take our time. The grounds cover 23 acres and are sectioned into differently themed gardens that make wandering exciting.

Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

Finally, take advantage of Colorado’s unique geological features. Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is a free park where shards of red rock reach toward the heavens. The site is unbelievable and worth the hour drive. If you can’t travel so far, make a stop at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Denver, which also has amazing red rock drifts. The theater is free and open to the public in the morning.

We had a great trip and can’t wait to go back! Have you been to Denver? What are your favorite stops?