Denver, the capital city of Colorado, is more than just a gateway to the Rocky Mountains. With its vibrant art scene, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities, Denver offers an array of attractions that can keep visitors entertained for days. If you have only 48 hours to explore this thriving city, here is a suggested 2-day itinerary to make the most of your time in Denver.
Day 1:
Morning: Start your day by visiting the Denver Art Museum, located in the heart of the city. The museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 70,000 artworks, ranging from contemporary pieces to ancient artifacts. Take your time to appreciate the diverse artworks and learn about the history and culture of various civilizations.
Afternoon: For a taste of Denver’s rich history, make your way to the Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, known for its stunning architecture and cultural landmarks. Visit the famous Union Station, a beautiful Beaux-Arts building that has been both a transportation hub and a gathering place since 1881. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the trendy restaurants or cafes in the area.
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Don’t forget to hop on the free MallRide shuttle to discover the full extent of this bustling street.
Evening: As the sun sets, head to Larimer Square, the historic block that once housed the first bank in Denver. Today, it has transformed into a vibrant dining and entertainment district. Indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants, and afterwards, catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy live music at one of the lively bars in the area.
Day 2:
Morning: Embrace nature by spending your second day exploring the great outdoors. Start your morning with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through the various themed gardens and marvel at the beautiful flora from around the world.
Afternoon: After immersing yourself in nature, it’s time to take on an adventure at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Located only 30 minutes from downtown Denver, this iconic outdoor venue is set against the stunning backdrop of towering red rock formations. Take a short hike to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the park, and don’t forget to snap a picture at the amphitheater itself, renowned for its perfect acoustics.
Evening: Wrap up your 48 hours in Denver by experiencing the city’s thriving craft beer scene. With over 100 breweries in the metro area, Denver has earned the nickname “the Napa Valley of Beer.” Take a brewery tour and enjoy tastings of locally brewed beers.
End your Denver adventure by trying some of the city’s finest culinary offerings, ranging from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors. If you have time, catch a game at Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies baseball team, and immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of America’s favorite pastime.
With just 48 hours in Denver, you can experience the best of the city’s art, history, nature, and gastronomy. From cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures, Denver offers a little something for everyone. So grab your itinerary and start exploring this vibrant city in the heart of the Rockies!