How to Spend 24 Hours in Magnificent Denver.
Mile High Magic: A Denver Adventure
Denver, the “Mile High City,” is a vibrant metropolis nestled amidst stunning mountain vistas. From its booming craft beer scene to its rich cultural offerings, Denver has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Denver will leave you breathless. Check out just a taste of what you can do outside of the City here.
I arrived at the Denver airport from Chicago in the late afternoon. The train from the airport to Union station is frequent and easy. If you’re a fan of conspiracy theories give Denver airports a read!
I was staying at the Hostel Fish on my first night which was great, and not just because I got a free beer and shot on arrival! It was in a great location and pretty good value.
I grabbed some food nearby and then headed to Bruz Off Fax, a great little brewery with super friendly staff. After an early night it was time to explore Denver! My main reason for visiting was to see the Garden of the Gods and Red Rocks, but I was excited to see what the city has to offer.
RiNo Arts District: Where Street Art Reigns Supreme
RiNo, once an industrial hub, has transformed into Denver’s trendiest artistic enclave. Stroll down Larimer Street and admire the ever-changing canvas of murals that adorn the brick buildings. These works of art reflect Denver’s creative spirit and serve as a constant source of inspiration.
I stopped at the Denver Central market for lunch, it’s an amazing spot with a few different stalls offering a variety of food. The whole of RiNo is crazy, so many murals and cool little restaurants/bars. It’s definitely worth spending a few hours here. Which is pretty easy, as the whole place is huge.
Meow Wolf: A Multisensory Adventure Awaits
Prepare to be transported to a whimsical world at Meow Wolf. This interactive art experience is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Explore mind-bending installations, crawl through psychedelic tunnels, and lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of creativity. Meow Wolf is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly unique artistic experience.
This place was insane, I’m still not really sure I knew what was happening! I walked there but I’d recommend getting a taxi as the walk is a little squiffy. There’s so much to do in there, I spent a couple of hours wandering around and I’m sure I didn’t explore half of what was going on.
Civic Pride on Display at the Colorado State Capitol
Denver’s crown jewel, the Colorado State Capitol, is a testament to the city’s rich history and civic pride. Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s fascinating architecture and marvel at the intricate details of the golden dome, which shimmers in the sunlight.
The park around the capitol is beautiful too, with some interesting monuments and sculptures. I also heard that the Denver Arts Museum is really cool, but I didn’t have time to visit on this trip. I did however try Torchy’s Tacos, which was delicious and had been recommended by a friend I met in Denver.
The Friendly Face of Denver: The Blue Bear
No visit to Denver is complete without a selfie with the iconic Blue Bear. This 39-foot tall, 4,000-pound steel sculpture has become a beloved landmark and a symbol of Denver’s quirky charm. You’ll find him lounging outside the Colorado Convention
Head to Union Station and the Dairy Block or Larimer St for some great restaurants and bars in the evening. Just to the East of the station you’ll find plenty of cool breweries to check out too! I really wish I’d had more time in Denver itself, but there’s so much to see just outside of the City that I didn’t do as much research as maybe I should have.
With views of the Rocky Mountains in the distance, Denver is a city that surprises and delights. With its unique blend of urban energy, artistic expression, and natural beauty, Denver is a destination that will leave you wanting to come back for more. However, it was time for me to leave, I was jumping on a 34 hour train journey straight to San Francisco.
ALWAYSANOVICE 