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Plan Denver

United States · North America

3 days in Denver

Denver is the capital of Colorado and the dominant city of the Rocky Mountain Region, known as the "Mile-High City" due to its elevation. It offers travelers a vibrant urban experience with a rich gold rush history, stunning mountain views, and easy access to outdoor adventures.

Plan this trip, free

Denver is the capital of Colorado and the dominant city of the Rocky Mountain Region, known as the "Mile-High City" due to its elevation.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Downtown & Civic Center Charm

7 stops 5.7 km

MorningStart at Union Station, then visit the State Capitol for history and views. Relax in Civic Center Park.

AfternoonExplore the impressive collections and architecture of the Denver Art Museum complex.

EveningStroll through historic Larimer Square, then indulge in a gourmet Mediterranean dinner at Rioja.

Walkable downtown, use MallRide. Ride-share or walk to museums. Walk to Larimer Square.

Make this trip yours

A free account opens every day of this guide and copies it into your own trip on your dates.

  • All 3 days, 18 stops
  • Route map and walking times
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Must-see in Denver

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Denver

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Cheaper here than at home

  • Outlets and sportswear

    Outlet malls run 30–70% below retail, and American sportswear (Nike, Levi's, Carhartt) is cheapest at home. Sales tax is added at the till and is not refundable.

Outlet

about 35 min

Outlets at Castle Rock

Open-air outlet south of Denver with 100 stores and a mountain backdrop.

Getting there. Car, about 35 minutes down the I-25.

Official site Transport

Where locals shop

  • King Sooperssupermarket

    The staple local grocery chain Coloradans rely on for everyday essentials.

  • Stanley Marketplacemarket

    A repurposed aviation factory housing local eateries, bakeries, and independent shops.

  • Denver Central Marketfood hall

    A vibrant food hall in the RiNo Art District featuring a variety of local vendors offering everything from gourmet coffee and pastries to fresh seafood, pizza, and artisanal ice cream. Great for a casual meal or snack.

  • Denver Milk Marketfood hall

    A bustling 16-concept food hall by Chef Frank Bonanno, offering a diverse range of culinary options from pizza and pasta to sushi and sandwiches, plus bars. It's a lively spot in LoDo.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Denver
  • Visa: Most international travelers require an ESTA or a visa to enter the United States.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $200 mid-range
  • Best months: May – Jun
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ USD · about US$200 a day
  • LanguageEnglish
  • Local timeAmerica/Denver
  • Best monthsMay · Jun · Sep · Oct
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsModerate crowds

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Most international travelers require an ESTA or a visa to enter the United States.

Read moreShow less

S. government websites for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Denver's downtown is walkable, and the free 16th Street MallRide shuttle makes navigating the core easy. RTD's light rail and bus system connect major neighborhoods and the airport, while ride-sharing services are also readily available.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$120
  • Mid-range: about US$200
  • Comfort: about US$350

Good to know

Drink plenty of water upon arrival to help acclimate to the high altitude.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Utilize Denver's extensive bike paths and B-cycle share program for scenic urban exploration.
  • Book tickets for popular attractions like Red Rocks Amphitheatre well in advance, especially for concerts.
  • Explore the RiNo Art District on foot to discover vibrant street art and unique galleries.
  • Always carry layers of clothing; Denver weather can change rapidly from sunny to chilly.

Stories

All
  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for Denver

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Cover: Tommy Bond on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors