places to visit in denver during winter

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Denver in Winter

Last Updated on November 13, 2023

by Duncan McHenry

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Denver in winter is a bustling scene where you’ll find a mix of the constant happenings of such a big city and a big influx of seasonal travelers heading up the Interstate 70 corridor bound for the ski resorts of Colorado’s high country.

There are a number of potential day trips from Denver during winter, especially given that Colorado’s state capital is so close to the mountains.

But travelers shouldn’t neglect spending some time in the city itself, as there are plenty of things to do in the city in winter that don’t require being outside or driving a long distance in hazardous weather.

Table of Contents

Winter Weather in Denver

Although the Denver area is known for being near the top of the list in terms of most sunny days per year, on average, of anywhere in the United States, you can bet there’ll be at least a few days of extreme winter weather each month in the window of roughly November through March.

This holds especially true if you’re in Denver in December, January, or February, which tend to be the “dead of winter” months when daytime and overnight temperatures are the coldest.

December temperatures average about 46°F (8°C) for the high and 19°F (-7°C) for the low. Denver in January averages about 48°F (9°C) for the high and again about 19°F (-7°C) for the low. You can expect similar temperatures if you’re visiting Denver in February.

The Colorado snowpack doesn’t actually peak until sometime in April, generally speaking, but the harshest weather, on average, is usually a thing of the past by late March.

The presence of snow and altitude make skiing come to mind for many people when they think of Denver in the winter, and it’s definitely worth setting a day or two aside to ski or snowboard any of the mountains that lie within striking distance of Denver. There are also plenty of other winter activities to enjoy as well.

A lot of ski resorts, such as those in Breckenridge or Vail , are very regular about posting up-to-date snowfall totals, and the United States Department of Agriculture publishes snowpack summary graphs on its .gov website.

This sort of info combined with local weather forecasts can help you make an educated decision on whether to make a drive up high into the Rockies for skiing, visit gorgeous Rocky Mountain National Park for some winter wonderland vibes or other activities while visiting Denver .

Driving in Denver During Winter

Since local road and highway crews are obviously used to ice, snow, sleet, hail, and pretty much anything Mother Nature can dish out, driving around the immediate urban parts of Denver is never much of a problem in the wintertime if your car has good tires.

However, roads here are not always salted to the extent that some on the East Coast of the USA are, so be sure to drive below the speed limit and be slow and deliberate about braking when driving in Denver during wintertime, whether you’re renting a car from Denver International Airport or driving in from elsewhere.

You might start to want a higher-clearance vehicle—if not even winter tires and/or chains, depending on the severity of conditions—if you decide to make the drive up into the mountains on I-70 or any other highways near Denver such as US 285 or US 36.

It’s not uncommon for this part of Colorado to experience blasts of snow, ice, near-zero temperatures (Fahrenheit), and wind chill in the middle of wintertime.

Yet temperatures can also climb as high as the upper 60s with blue skies and sunshine, depending on the day, so Denver locals often note that snow tends to melt off sooner here at 5,280 feet of altitude in comparison to many other cities.

If you need to rent a car for your trip to Denver during winter, browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals across a number of major suppliers.

Which Month to Visit Denver?

When travelling to Denver, Colorado in winter—meaning between the months of late November or early December through March—you might choose a different month for your trip depending on your goals for activities and lodgings.

Denver in December, for example, can be warm and dry if you look at a year like 2021 in which the snowpack in Colorado’s high country didn’t really begin to pick up until the very last week of the month. Because of this, December may or may not be a viable month for a ski-oriented trip to jump off from Denver, depending on the year.

The Downtown Denver Rink in Skyline Park not far from Union Station also opens up in late November, meaning that December is a great time to hit the ice in a festive setting.

Denver in January is more reliable when you’ll start to get those “champagne powder” sort of days that the state of Colorado’s mountains are known for. Obviously, skiing is one of the best things about a winter in Colorado. However, craft beer fans will love the Winter Brew Fest that takes place in late January.

Resorts like Vail, Steamboat, and Winter Park see some of their coldest annual temperatures in January, and the frigid air mixed with precipitation makes for excellent skiing and snowboarding.

For travelers who aren’t at all interested in the ski scene or going up into the mountains, February can be a great time for a stay in the Mile High City as temperatures start to creep upwards and early signs of spring begin to show. Still the perfect temperature for curling up with a mug of hot chocolate.

Coming to Denver in February can also be nice in that the Spring Break season window of March has yet to arrive, but the busy holiday season is well past, so crowds both in Denver and the mountains can often be thinner.

Things to do in Denver in Winter

Morrison and red rocks amphitheatre.

The town of Morrison is located just outside of Denver a little less than 10 minutes to the south of the Golden area.

Morrison is best known for being home to the worldwide-acclaimed Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert venue, but the town’s downtown strip is an underrated gem that can be especially fun for families to stroll down when visiting during the holidays.

You’ll find this row of small local shops, restaurants, and bars lined with bright, festive lights after dark, and the waters of Bear Creek may even be trickling down from the canyon if the weather is warm enough.

If you’re someone who likes to stay active or is looking to keep up on some cardio while traveling, Red Rocks and the surrounding area is also a fun place for hiking, climbing, and running.

Locals often know that the inside of Red Rocks is open to the public when no events are happening, and parking tends to be free, so it’s pretty common to come here and see several people running up and down the steep flights of stairs in the Amphitheatre.

Views looking out over the eastern plains from the trails and the top of the nosebleed seats at Red Rocks can be breathtaking when you see the rock formations. While events like concerts aren’t typically held here in the winter months, be sure to take a look at the schedule for the next year and plan to come back for one in the summer if you can.

If you don’t have your own transport, you can also go on a half-day tour to the area.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is well-known by Denver residents, but it doesn’t tend to get crowded with tourists like the Denver Zoo can—especially in winter.

Botanists and home garden enthusiasts will be in heaven here, but the beauty of the Botanic Gardens is that between its conservatory, array of gardens with differing themes, and sunken amphitheatre, it’s a multifaceted public botanical garden with something for all to appreciate.

In fact, the Botanic Gardens actually consists of two separate facilities: the classic, central location on York Street in Denver’s Cheesman Park area, and the Chatfield Farms property to the south of the city in Littleton.

Chatfield Farms is a “700-acre native plant refuge and working farm,” according to the botanic gardens’ website, so more indoor activities tend to be available at the York Street location.

Tickets must be purchased in advance, so consult the website first and plan on prices ranging from free for members and infants to a standard adult rate. After stopping by the botanic gardens, consider taking a walk around Cheesman Park if the weather is nice enough. If this is too much of an outdoor activity, head to the Denver Art Museum instead.

Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science

Another one of the best things to do in Denver during winter that’s ideal for travelers with kids is spending some time at the Denver Zoo or the Museum of Nature & Science, or both, as they’re located just a stone’s throw from each other in Denver’s City Park area.

The Museum of Nature & Science has gained recognition as one of the top natural history museums in the West and even the entire country, and when you see its expertly curated exhibits like “Guitar: The Instrument That Rocked The World” and the upcoming “Egypt: The Time of The Pharaohs,” you’ll understand why. Other standard attractions at the Museum of Nature & Science include an IMAX theater and planetarium.

The Denver Zoo is also truly one of the best as American zoos go, with generally clean facilities, lots of food and beverage stations, a nice variety of animals both exotic and domestic and friendly staff.

It’s also laid out in a very sensible “loop” sort of fashion in which visitors tend to only walk a couple of miles at most during a visit, which is nice for both kids and older visitors.

Depending on wintertime temperatures, keep in mind that not all of the animals may be active enough to really be out and about if you’re at the Denver Zoo in winter.

Ski for a Day in the Mountains

Some of Colorado’s most famous ski resorts are within just a few hours’ drive of Denver , so no list detailing what to do in winter in Denver would be complete without mention of a day trip to the snowy alpine country.

One of the closer and more economical options for a day of skiing when based out of Denver, assuming you’re not bound for other favorites like Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Idaho Springs Steamboat, or Copper Mountain, is to head for Loveland Ski Area.

Getting here from downtown Denver usually takes less than an hour and a half if traffic and weather aren’t bad, and lift tickets, rentals, and even other expenses like meals and drinks tend to be more economically priced in comparison to other ski mountains.

If you’re arriving in Denver initially and want to stray a bit farther than what day trips from Denver will allow, then you might consider venturing as far as either Wolf Creek or Monarch Mountain.

Like Loveland Ski Area, these two resorts tend to have lower prices and shorter lift lines compared to places such as Vail or Breckenridge while still boasting plenty in the way of variety, acreage, and snow quality.

The marquee mountains of the state get crowded for a reason, though, so it’s always worth considering making a day’s visit to quintessential wintertime Rocky Mountain destinations like the ones included on Vail Resorts’ Epic ski pass.

For people staying in Denver who want to experience some wintersports, there are plenty of opportunities to go ice skating within the city limits.

Explore Denver’s Food and Beverage Scene

If you’re less of an “outdoorsy” type or find yourself sticking around the city in Denver for any reason, it’s well worth taking a day to simply explore what the city has to offer when it comes to activities like dining, shopping, nightlife, and live music.

A Denver winter is especially hopping where the food and beverage scene is concerned, as local breweries, restaurants, and social hotspots know folks are often looking for a chance to be inside with friends enjoying good food and drink.

The challenge might be in deciding where to start: if you’re a lover of both pizza and craft beer, then you can’t go wrong with Fat Sully’s or Hops & Pie.

If you’ve already eaten and want to sample several locally brewed beers, then Denver Beer Co., Ratio, or Wynkoop might be the winner. You can also go on a craft beer tour if you want to sample a few different breweries in a short period of time.

Although Denver is so well-known for its craft beer scene, a lesser-known fact is that it hosts arguably some of the best Latin American food in the country.

You can find everything from more upscale Mexican food at a restaurant like Chili Verde to tiny taco stands farther to the north on the same main road of Federal Blvd.

Fans of other ethnic cuisine types will also find lots of options ranging from eateries serving Vietnamese and Chinese food to the American Indian-owned and operated establishment Tocabe (picture a similar format to Chipotle only with options like frybread, ground bison, and hominy).

If you want to sample a lot of Denver’s food scene in one afternoon, this small-group food tour will take you to a selection of restaurants in the city.

Where to Stay in Denver

If you’ve decided that you do indeed want to spend some time in Denver during the wintertime, then you’re going to need to find a place to rest your head in the Mile High City. There are lots of accommodation options in the Colorado capital that will suit all kinds of visitors. If you’re wondering where to stay in Denver, have a look at these suggestions:

Westin Denver Downton — If you’re after a great, high-end hotel option in downtown Denver then this is an excellent choice. Well-located for exploring all that the city has to offer, they have numerous clean and comfortable rooms available along with other amenities to ensure you have a lovely stay. C

Holiday Inn Express Downtown Denver — A good option if you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable hotel that is centrally located in downtown Denver – close to all of the action. There are numerous rooms available and there is a complimentary breakfast included in the rate.

Private Rental – If you’re after a bit of privacy or independence on your winter trip to Denver, then a private vacation rental — like this centrally located farmhouse — is a great option. There are tons of properties to choose from across a number of different platforms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Denver hotels

A trip to Denver, Colorado in winter is sure to be worthwhile if you plan for seasonal travel conditions and decide whether your goals center on spending time in the city itself or the mountains. And if you have room in your itinerary for a little of both without feeling too crunched for time, then all the better.

Are you planning a winter trip to Denver? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Duncan McHenry

Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains.

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12 Amazing Things To Do In Denver In Winter

From visiting Union Station and checking out the city’s art galleries, to hiking in the mountains, these are the best things to do in Denver in winter.

If Denver isn’t already on your ultimate Colorado itinerary , it should be! Surrounded by gorgeous snow-covered mountains during the winter months, the Mile High city is a great little gem in the northern region of Colorado.

With a history that goes all the way back to the Old American West, Denver is nicknamed the Mile High city due to its mile-high elevation above sea level. This city is full of cosy restaurants, gorgeous hotels and lots of fun winter activities for the colder months. You could spend a day in the city at Denver Art Museum or pay a visit to Denver Botanic Gardens.

Plus, with places like Breckenridge close, by you could spend some of your time in the city and some of your times on the slopes!

Ready to start a winter adventure like no other? It’s time to share some of the top places to visit in Denver in winter.

Weather In Denver in Winter

Despite its reputation as one of the chilliest places in the Midwest, the winters in Denver, Colorado are not as extreme as in other parts of the country. The average temperature in the coldest month of December is around -8 Celsius, or 18 Fahrenheit, and in July, top temperatures average around 32 Celsius, or 89 Fahrenheit.

There are plenty of things to do in Denver in winter both indoors and outdoors, but you’ll definitely want to pack some layers and wrap up warm!

Amazing Things to do in Denver in Winter

Hang out at denver union station.

If you hear the word ‘station’ and immediately picture Oxford Circus at rush hour, don’t worry – Union Station isn’t your typical train station! It’s actually a top tourist attraction in Denver and home to some of the best dining options in the city.

From restaurants with open kitchens to cosy bars serving up to 30 different types of Colorado beer, Denver Union Station is one of the best places to visit in Denver in winter! Treat yourself to a flavoured beer at Terminal Bar, or try the vegan rocky road at Milkbox Ice Creamery – who says you can’t gorge on ice cream during winter?

If, like me, Christmas begins for you in November and ends in January, why not also treat yourself to a festive cocktail at the Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar, Miracle at Union Station . The pop-up bar is only available during the festive season, so don’t miss out! If you’re feeling the festive cheer, how about sampling the bar’s “Dasher” cocktail, made from gin and marshmallows. Yummy!

Go shopping at the 16 th Street Mall

When it’s cold outside, what better excuse to head to downtown and indulge in a little splurging? Taking a stroll around 16 th Street Mall is one of the best things to do in Denver in winter, as there are plenty of warm shops and cafes where you can take cover from any potential snowfall.

Whether you cosy up in a café with a hot chocolate or buy yourself some Christmas gifts, there are plenty of familiar stores (e.g. H&M) as well as some independent stores and American classics.

See the world in a new way at the Museum of Illusions

Ever wanted to walk on the ceiling or clone yourself? All is not as it seems at Denver’s magical Museum of Illusions! This fun indoor experience is ideal for chilly days, and perfect for adults and kids alike.

Inside this interactive museum you’ll find lots of mind-bending exhibits which will change your view of the world. You can stand a few steps from your partner and look like a giant towering over them. There’s an illusion where it looks like gravity doesn’t exist, as you cling onto the seats of a train, floating up into the air. Plus, there are several surprising mirror tricks, where it’ll look like you’ve cloned yourself or had your head detached from your body.

This is somewhere you’ll leave with a camera roll full of endless fun photos!

Click here to find out more about the Museum of Illusions, including location, prices and opening times. Plus, as a special treat for my readers, you can now get a discount when you use the code WANDERLUSTCHLOE15 at the checkout.

Visit Winter Park Resort

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Denver in winter, why not take a day trip to one of Denver’s best winter resorts? Winter Park Resort , located 66 miles from central Denver, has everything you need for a thrilling winter escapade.

Take your pick from the fun selection of snow activities ranging from ice skating to snow biking. If you’re not keen on the more challenging snow sports, Winter Park also plays host to some of the most fun winter activities in Denver. You could go ice-fishing, snow tubing, ride the Panoramic Express Lift or even grab a massage at the resort’s cosy lodge spa. How dreamy does that sound?

Enjoy local gastronomy in Denver

I’m a firm believer that the best way to get to know a destination is to eat my way around it! One of the best winter activities in Denver is to tour some of the city’s cosy restaurants and cafés.

Unlike many of its American counterparts, Denver doesn’t have one staple dish, but with hundreds of local businesses specialising in various cuisines, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

For an authentic Denver experience, head to Denver Biscuit Company and try one of their loaded biscuits, preferably slathered in gravy and bacon. If you’ve never tried an American biscuit before, they’re like British scones but saltier and crispier, and used as sandwich buns. Be warned: you’ll be craving American biscuits when you get home, and you might find it hard to look at an English scone in the same way again!

If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, head to Voodoo Doughnut for a pink box full of sweet treats. If you’re a fan of Yum Yums, I recommend their Maple Bar – a rectangle-shaped doughnut topped with delicious maple icing. 

Take a trip to the Denver Art Museum

There are plenty of art galleries and museums to visit in this city. Many are free, so if you’re looking for things to do in Denver in winter on a budget, you’re in luck!

One of the best is Denver Art Museum ! Take a look around and let yourself be inspired by the creative works on display. Don’t forget to pop into the gift shop for some unique and creative souvenirs for your loved ones…or even for yourself!

Visit Red Rocks Park

Red Rocks Park is a large amphitheatre, a historic Denver concert venue and one of the most visited tourist spots in Denver. It gets really busy in the summer months, but is a great escape in the winter months and should definitely be on your Colorado itinerary .

You can enjoy the snow speckled landscape and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in peace. This is one spot you’ll definitely want to take lots of photos too! No doubt you’ll make your friends back home jealous as you post them on Instagram!

Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re not afraid of a bit of chilly weather, and looking for outdoorsy things to do in Denver in winter, you can’t get much better than a visit to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Just over an hour’s drive from Denver, this national park offers spectacular views of Colorado’s stunning mountain range. They’re even more beautiful when dusted with snow too. Immerse yourself in nature, but remember to wrap up warm and bring a hat and gloves! You might also want a little flask of hot chocolate if the temperatures really dive low.

Go skiing in Breckenridge

One of the best day trips from Denver is Breckenridge. Just an hour and a half in the car (or one hour 45 from Denver International Airport) and you could be in this beautiful mountain town, enjoying the ski slopes, winter hiking trails and cosy restaurants. If you want some ideas of what to do when you get there, check out my guide to the best things to do in Breckenridge in winter .

Where to Stay in Denver in Winter

The oxford hotel, downtown denver.

If you’re looking for some old-fashioned luxury, the Oxford Hotel is your best choice. Established in 1809, this hotel is ideally located in Downtown Denver and renowned for its traditional attention to detail and personal customer service.

With the combination of its vintage Art Deco style and high-quality modern amenities, you’ll feel like a Gatsby character in one of their elegant rooms or suites!

The Ramble Hotel, Denver

Add a bit of modern luxe to your trip to Denver with a stay at The Ramble Hotel. Centrally located, this hotel is gorgeously decorated with deep green hues and luxurious leather padding.

Whether you want to go for cocktails in the hotel bar or enjoy room service whilst relaxing on your queen-sized bed, The Ramble Hotel combines comfort and class!

The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

Enjoy a stay filled with luxury at the spectacular Ritz-Carlton. Located near downtown Denver, this hotel boasts oversized bathtubs, a steakhouse, cocktail bar andbutler service!

You’ll feel like a movie star as you enjoy views of the mountains from your hotel room window. With spa facilities and a flat-screen TV in every room, you won’t even need to leave the hotel!

I hope you’ve enjoyed finding out some of the top things to do in Denver in winter. Let me know what you decide to do on your trip!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss these handy travel guides:

• The Ultimate Colorado Itinerary 
• 19 Amazing Things To Do In Telluride in Winter
• 16 Awesome Things To Do In Breckenridge In Winter
• 17 Amazing Things To Do In Aspen In Winter
• 9 Top Things To Do In Utah In Winter
• 16 Amazing Things To Do In Ruidoso, New Mexico

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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• Eat + Drink

PSST… 15 Things You Should Do This Winter in and Around Denver

Winter is coming and it’s bringing plenty of frigid days to Denver! After you’re done snuggling up in front of the fireplace, we encourage you to get out and explore our amazing community this season.

We’ve curated a list of the best things to do on a cold day in the Denver area. Whether you’re looking to spend the day outside in the snow or cozied up perusing a local museum—we’ve got a little something for everyone on our list. Stay warm!

Go Ice Skating at Skyline Park

The cozy Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park is one of our favorite winter traditions. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the rink is a walk (or free MallRide) away from a host of fabulous restaurants and shops, making it an ideal location for your next date night. They also host Sunday family days, a broomball competition, yoga on the ice, and skating lessons throughout the season. The best part? Aside from skate rentals, it’s all free.

Go Out to a Game

Just because football season might be over, doesn’t mean Denverites are out of teams to root for! This season, check out a Denver Nuggets basketball game, a Colorado Mammoth lacrosse match, or a Colorado Avalanche hockey game. And if you’re looking to cheer on our local collegiate teams, CU Boulder has a great basketball program, with Men’s Basketball and Women’s Basketball games through early spring.

Take a Tour of Coors Brewery

Photo courtesy of Coors Brewery

For those of us who want to escape the elements this season, there are plenty of indoor activities in the Denver area to enjoy! One is the Coors Brewery Tour where you can see and taste how Coors brews beer in the largest single-site brewery in the world. The tour costs only $5 for Colorado locals and $10 for everyone else. Learn about beer making on an audio tour, sample an ice-cold beer, enjoy three more brews at the end of the tour, and take home a free glass—AKA the perfect Colorado winter day.

Attend a First Friday Art Walk

Denver is an undeniably artsy city. Throw on your winter coat, grab some hot chocolate and see the work of talented local artists at one of the city’s many First Friday events—at the Arts District on Santa Fe , the Golden Triangle Creative District , RiNo and more.

Soak the Cold Away at the Indian Hot Springs

Photo courtesy of Indian Hot Springs

In addition to offering a natural health treatment option for common ailments, hot springs are a fantastic way to beat the chill this winter. Indian Hot Springs is the closest to Denver, located in the historic mining town of Idaho Springs and is easily accessible from the I-70 corridor. Officially discovered in 1859, this hot spring offers a multitude of swimming pools, geothermal caves and outdoor jacuzzis where you can warm up.

Spend the Afternoon at the Denver Art Museum

Get a little culture (and keep warm!) at one of Denver’s most famous attractions: the Denver Art Museum. The eclectic collection of works at the museum span American Indian ceramics to Spanish Colonial paintings, and includes more than 70,000 pieces. It’s easy to get lost amongst the exhibits—but in our opinion, that’s the best part! Take a moment from your busy day to peruse some art. Admission costs about $13 for out-of-state visitors and children 18 and younger are free!

Go See the Ice Castles at Dillon Town Park

Photo courtesy of Ice Castles Colorado

Each year, the Ice Castles in Dillon brings fairy tales to life for hundreds of thousands of families across Colorado. The frozen attraction is created using icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists and is lit by thousands of LED lights. Wrap yourself up in your best winter gear and explore breathtaking sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and more. The castles are usually open late December through early March.

Holiday Shop at Denver’s Christkindl Market

An annual Denver family tradition, the Denver Christkindl Market is an artisan marketplace where you can shop for locally made gifts, eat authentic German cuisine, drink hot chocolate and enjoy live music! They’ll be hosting the market across from the Clock Tower in the 16th Street Mall from November 22 to December 23—and the cost to attend is absolutely free.

Take a Ride on the Santa Express Train

Photo courtesy of the Santa Express Train

The Royal Gorge Route‘s Santa Express Train is a true winter adventure, where children (and adults!) embark on a trip aboard the Santa Express to the North Pole. Decorated like a true Christmas town, bedecked with holiday lights for its most famous resident—Santa Claus. During the ride, you will be served complimentary hot cocoa and a cookie and are encouraged to wear cozy pajamas and relax with family and friends. The Royal Gorge Route begins at the Santa Fe Depot, located in Cañon City.

Stroll Around 16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall is a mile-long, pedestrian-friendly mall packed with shopping, restaurants and attractions that you and your family will have a blast traversing. If you get tired of walking—don’t worry! Just hop on the MallRide which will take you to the other end of the mall for free or, if it’s after dark, you can settle into a horse-drawn carriage or pedicab. During the winter, you’ll find it adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, giving you an ultra festive place to shop for the holidays.

Go Snow Tubing at the Colorado Adventure Park

Photo courtesy of Colorado Adventure Park

Located in Fraser, CO just an hour and a half from Denver, the Colorado Adventure Park offers a number of outdoor activities suitable for the entire family. Here, you can go ice fishing, dog sledding, skiing and snow tubing! Multiple terrains are available on the tubing hill, including smooth and easy to fast and furious. A conveyor belt system takes tubers up the hill after each run, which allows you and the family to save your energy for the fun. After your tubing adventure, you can warm up in a spacious warming hut with WiFi access, and even enjoy beer or wine from the concessions stand.

Take in the Snow-Covered Scenery at Red Rocks

Red Rocks is a bustling park in the summer when its famous amphitheater is filled with concerts. But during the winter, the park dies down and becomes even quieter when snow is falling. Grab your camera and head to the park during a winter storm to truly enjoy the beautiful red sandstone formations capped with contrasting white powder!

Attend the Winter Brew Fest

Photo courtesy of the Winter Brew Fest

There won’t be any reason to hibernate with Denver’s Winter Brew Fest happening from January 24th to 25th, 2020. The two-day event will feature more than 100 craft beers, including those made with seasonal flavors and a few year-round favorites. Apart from various craft beers that you can indulge in, the festival also highlights food and other vendors from all around Colorado.

Cozy Up With a Good Book at the Tattered Cover

Personally, we can’t think of a better way to spend a snowy day than cozied up with a good book and one of the best spots in the city to do that is the Tattered Cover! This iconic bookstore is certainly worth a visit if you haven’t been already. Locally owned and operated, the Tattered Cover has three expansive locations and four smaller satellite stores throughout the metro area.

Take a Winter Hike

Hiking isn’t just an activity for warm weather. Take a scenic winter hike and enjoy a special (and free!) exciting seasonal pursuit. We highly recommend taking on Roxborough State Park , where the contrast of massive red rock formations against the soft, white snow makes the hikes feel like a walk through a fantasy world. Or head to Green Mountain Trail in Lakewood, where you get unique views of where the mountains meet the prairie and fascinating geology.

What do you like to do in Denver when it’s cold outside? Let us know in the comments!

Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

Celebrate the Season with 12 Things to Do in Denver This Winter

• December 6, 2020
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on March 30, 2022 by foxintheforest

When the snow starts falling in Denver, do you get excited or are you ready to hibernate? Well, don’t let the wintry weather stop you from getting outside – there are so many awesome things to do in Denver in the winter!

It’s literally snowing as I write this post, and I can’t be more excited to dive into allllll the Denver winter activities. Snuggle season is here, and as a Denver local of over 12 years, I’m ready to share the best of this winter wonderland with you.

About This Guide to Things to Do in Denver in the Winter

Inside this local guide about things to do in Denver during winter, you’ll find:

• The best things to do in Denver in winter
• Location and cost of each activity
• Any special considerations for Denver activities during the pandemic

12 Things to Do in Denver in the Winter

Whether you’re celebrating the snow or desperately in need of a holiday spirit booster, you can find Denver winter activities to fit your winter mood.

1. Blossoms of Light

If the dark days of winter have gotten you down, the Denver Botanic Garden’s Blossoms of Light will bring back the glow! Every holiday season, the entire garden glitters with gorgeous light displays. Walking through the brilliant bulbs (of both the electrical and natural variety) is sure to bring you joy.

• Cost: $18-21 ($16-19 for members)
• Covid Considerations: Tickets are timed entry and must be purchased online. No tickets will be available on site.

2. Ice Castles

Treat yourself to an extra cool winter experience with a visit to the truly spectacular Ice Castles in Dillon. Ice artists handcraft the immersive ice castles, which feature thrones, tunnels, fountains, and sculptures lit up with LED lights. You can even take a ride down an ice slide!

• Cost: $18-$23
• Covid Considerations: Reduced capacity & one-way flow in certain areas.

Skiing is truly the signature activity of winter in Colorado. With so many ski resorts near Denver , you have a ton of options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. And if you’re avy-certified, the backcountry gives you tons of places to hit the slopes and find your own line.

• Cost: Varies
• Covid Considerations: Many resorts are requiring online reservations and limiting single-day lift tickets. Check with individual resorts before heading out.

4. Ice Skating

Gliding around a Colorado ice rink is a quintessential winter experience. As one of the best things to do in Denver in the winter, you’ll find many places to lace up your skates in the Denver area.

Evergreen Lake becomes a huge outdoor ice rink in the winter with several pond hockey rinks and a public skating area, all in a beautiful natural setting. Several state parks, including Cherry Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, also feature natural ponds that you can skate on once they safely freeze over.

• Covid Considerations: TBD

5. Winter Hiking

Don’t limit yourself to hiking only when the weather is warm! Hiking is also the perfect way to adventure on a sunny winter day. In fact, some of the best winter hikes in Colorado are just outside the city.

The Red Rocks Trail is a great winter hike that takes you through the amphitheater itself, with snow accentuating the red sandstone views. Mount Galbraith in Golden is a moderate hike with lovely views that gets lots of sun.

And Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is short and popular, so the snow on the trail usually is pretty packed down. Still, it’s a good idea to bring microspikes any time you hike in the winter, just in case.

• Cost: Free (or park admission fee)
• Covid Considerations: Some trailhead amenities might be closed.

6. Snowshoeing

Embrace the snow and try a snowshoe adventure!

Some excellent snowshoeing options include Brainard Lake, which has a designated snowshoe trail, St. Mary’s Glacier, and the Second Creek trail up to Broome Hut (near Berthoud Pass) where you can have lunch and warm up in the day-use area before heading back down.

If you don’t have your own snowshoes, you can rent from most local gear stores including Feral, Wilderness Exchange, Estes Park Mountain Shop, and REI.

• Cost: Free (or rental fee of about $20 if you don’t have your own snowshoes)
• Covid Considerations: Bring a mask in case you pass others on the trails.

7. Hot Springs

When there’s a chill in the air, warm up with a soak in one of the many hot springs in Colorado .

Hands-down one of the most relaxing things to do in Denver in winter is to go for a soak. The closest developed hot springs to Denver are the Indian Hot Springs located in Idaho Springs.

With outdoor jacuzzis, a mineral water swimming pool, and even geothermal caves to relax in, you will almost forget that it’s cold outside.

• Cost: $18-$40
• Covid Considerations: One-hour time slots with limited capacity.

8. Sledding & Tubing

If you love the snow and want to feel like a kid again, why not go sledding or snow tubing? Frisco Adventure Park , about an hour and a half from Denver, has an awesome tubing hill with multiple lanes and a free sledding hill as well. 

Many ski resorts, including Copper and Winter Park, also have hills designated for snow tubing. And Ruby Hill Park in Denver and Tantra Park in Boulder offer more local options.

• Covid Considerations: Frisco Adventure Park has delayed the opening of the season.

9. Denver Christkindl Market

Get in the festive spirit and get some holiday shopping done at the Denver Christkindl Market . This open air market features hand-crafted products from local and international makers and artisans.

Indulge in Bavarian beers, Glühwein, and German food as you browse the vendor huts and enjoy live music. Each year, the market opens for the season in November on the Friday before Thanksgiving and continues until December 23rd.

• Covid Considerations: In 2020, the Christkindl Market will move to a new location in Civic Center park which provides more space for social distancing. The market will also have a maximum capacity, and when it is reached, people will need to wait in line to enter.

10. Denver Winter Brew Fest

Raise a glass to craft beer at the Denver Winter Brew Fest , scheduled for January 23, 2021.

For the price of admission, you’ll get a souvenir sampling glass that you can fill with unlimited pours of beer, cider, and more beverages.

The festival has a daytime and an evening session, and food trucks will be standing by so you can purchase snacks to soak up all the beer you’ll be drinking.

• Cost: $35-60 (depending on session & when ticket is purchased)

11. Zoo Lights

The Denver Zoo is celebrating the 30th anniversary of turning its 80 acres into a sparkling winter wonderland with Zoo Lights .

Wander around the zoo grounds to see both real animals up close, as well as illuminated animal sculptures. Hot cocoa and adult beverages are available for purchase to bring some extra cheer to your evening.

• Covid Considerations: Tickets are only available online, and there is a 5-ticket limit.

12. Holiday Lights Mini Golf

Have some festive fun and practice your putting with a round of Holiday Lights Mini Golf. During November and December, Adventure Golf in Westminster decorates all three of its mini golf courses with over 100,000 twinkling lights.

Play your way through multicolored tunnels, an erupting volcano, and lots more impressive illumination.

• Cost: $10 for 18 holes
• Covid Considerations: Only credit credit cards accepted, no cash. 4 people maximum allowed per hole.

Quick Tips for Exploring Denver in the Winter

Before you get into the winter activities in Denver, keep these quick tips in mind:

• There is currently a mask mandate in Denver. You’ll need a mask for most activities.
• Even though marijuana is legal in the Mile High City, it’s illegal to smoke in public.
• Traffic can be quite brutal near the city and en-route to the mountains (especially I-70). Plan accordingly!

More Denver Travel Resources

Play in Denver like a local with these additional resource:

• 32 Fantastic Things to Do in Denver Year-Round
• How to Visit Denver Like a Local
• Amazing Ski Resorts Near Denver You’ve Got to Check Out

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

Denver Winter Vacation: How To Spend An Epic Winter Weekend In Denver

Denver, Colorado is a great destination for a winter getaway.

It sees mild weather compared to the Rockies but still provides a taste of winter.

Planning a weekend away in Denver this winter?

From festivals and day trips to the mountains, to museums and professional sporting events, there’s no shortage of great things to do during your Denver winter vacation.

I’ve lived in Denver most of my life and think the city is really underrated this time of year.

Read on for a 3 day Denver weekend guide in winter!

Table of Contents

How To Get To Denver

Denver International Airport – 35 minutes from downtown (26 miles)

Looking for cheap flights?  Be sure to sign up for  Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)  to get cheap flight alerts delivered right to your inbox. It’s a free service I’ve used for years and couldn’t recommend more. 

From the airport you can…

Take The Train To Denver 

The University of Colorado A Line, simply referred to as the A Line, takes you directly from DIA to Union Station, which is centrally located downtown.

The train costs $10.50 each way and takes just under 40 minutes. 

Call An Uber/ Lyft/ Taxi 

Ride share or a cab will usually run you about $60-75 to downtown.

The drive between DIA and downtown is about 35 minutes. If arriving during rush hour, that time can nearly double.  

Prices will vary. The drive between DIA and downtown is about 35 minutes without traffic.

Do You Need A Car In Denver? 

Short answer, no.

However, day trips from Denver are awesome , the city is sitting right at the base of the Rocky Mountains after all! So lets look at the pros and cons below… 

Getting Around Downtown 

I don’t recommend having a car downtown. Parking is limited and traffic can be terrible.

Downtown Denver is compact and easy to get around by walking or utilizing the abundance of scooter and bike rentals around town. 

If there’s bad weather and you’d rather not walk, Uber/Lyft are readily available. 

What About Day Trips?

A car is most convenient for day trips, but there are tours available for the most popular attractions near Denver. 

If you’re not accustomed to winter driving, skip the rental car and let a tour guide take the wheel for you.

Where To Stay In Denver

If you’re only planning to spend a few days in Denver, I recommend staying in the downtown area.

It’s centrally located, walkable, and there’s tons to do!

Best Hotels In Downtown Denver 

• The Crawford Hotel
• The Curtis Denver
• Four Seasons Hotel Denver
• The Brown Palace
• The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block
• The Art Hotel Denver
• The Oxford Hotel
• The Ramble Hotel

All of these hotels are centrally located, making a great base for your Denver winter vacation. 

There are less expensive hotels outside the city. However, there’s not a lot of tourist-friendly things do in the suburbs immediately surrounding Denver.

Additionally, Denver area traffic can be really bad. Commuting in and out of the city will cut into precious vacation time. 

Denver Winter Vacation Guide & Things To Do 

Below I’ve compiled a 3 day itinerary with lots of options for your Denver winter vacation. 

This itinerary includes more than most would do in one weekend, pick and choose which attractions appeal to you.

Denver Winter Vacation: Day 1

If you arrive downtown via the train, you’ll find yourself at Union Station. This is a great place to start your weekend in Denver.

Restaurants Near Union Station Denver 

First thing’s first, grab a bite to eat.

There’s an excellent selection of delicious food in this immediate area, check out:

• Snooze A.M. Eatery for breakfast.
• Machete Tequila + Tacos for lunch. 
• Mercantile Dining & Provision or Next Door American Eatery for dinner. 
• Illegal Petes LoDo for a quick bite to eat. 
• Amante Coffee for a quick snack and caffeine. 
• Wynkoop Brewing for quick food and local brews. 

Denver’s Union Station

Now that your stomach is full, it’s time to explore Union Station.

This is Denver’s most iconic historic landmark, located smack dab in the middle of downtown. It’s a must-see during your Denver winter vacation.  

Not only is Union Station an active train terminal, it’s also a hub for restaurants, shops, bars. It’s a legitimate hangout for locals and visitors alike. 

Union Station was built in the 1920’s during the heyday of train travel. Following the decline of train travel in the United States, the building became ran down and scarcely used. 

That was until a multi-million dollar renovation from 2012 – 2014 magnificently revived the historic building, and brought a pulse back to the now-lively neighborhood. 

Looking for more things to do in the neighborhood? Check out Top Things To Do In LoDo Denver . 

Visit A Museum

Depending on what time you arrived, consider spending the afternoon at one of Denver’s many museums.

Downtown has an excellent variety of galleries and collections, especially considering the city’s relatively small size. 

Downtown Denver Museums

• Denver Art Museum
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science
• Molly Brown House Museum
• Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
• Colorado History Center
• Clyfford Still Museum 

Visit The Colorado State Capitol

Denver isn’t called the “Mile High City” for no reason, in fact the capitol building sits  exactly  at one mile above sea level. 

The gold-capped building, modeled after the nation’s capitol, is located in the heart of downtown and draws thousands of visitors a year.

The 13th step is the spot to stand if you wish to snag a pic exactly one mile above sea level. 

Fun Fact:  The 15th and 18th steps are also marked “one mile”. As technology has improved, the measurement has become more accurate. The 15th and 18th steps were marked in 1947 and 1969, respectively.

While here, consider taking a free tour of the capitol building. For tour information, head on over to Colorado State Capitol Tours .

Visit Larimer Square

Larimer Square is an excellent spot to wrap up your day.

It’s a lively, pedestrian-friendly historic block and one of the top things to do in Denver.

This area is known for charming local businesses, upscale eateries, and excellent boutique shopping. 

My favorite women’s boutique here is Hailee Grace, be sure to check it out!

Note: Larimer Square is undergoing renovations, some shops and restaurants on this beloved block may be temporarily closed.

Denver Winter Vacation: Day 2

Day 2 will involve a day trip from Denver to explore Colorado’s beautiful mountains. If you don’t have a car, don’t worry, there are tour options available.

You’ll want to hit the road early, as many of these attractions get quite busy during the weekends. 

You May Also Like: The Most Popular Day Trips From Denver

Grab A Quick Breakfast In Denver

Before beginning the day, fuel up with some delicious breakfast.

Some of my favorite spots to grab a quick bite downtown are:

• Rosenberg’s Bagels
• Santiago’s Breakfast Burritos
• Voodoo Doughnuts
• The Noshery
• Bodega Denver
• Maria Empanada

Rocky Mountain National Park (Option 1)

1 hour, 40 minutes from Denver 

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning park located less than two hours from the city.

This is one of the most visited national parks come summer, but it’s quite peaceful during the winter months.

It has great snowshoeing routes and scenic drives, perfect for your Denver winter vacation. 

If you’re interested in snowshoeing, check out Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, The Loch, or Lake Haiyaha.

You’ll be blown away by how beautiful the trails are this time of year.

Never snowshoed? Don’t worry, snowshoeing is fairly easy, especially on the well packed trails of RMNP.

Plus, snowshoeing allows you to enjoy solitude in a park which is typically very crowded.

You can rent snowshoes for cheap in Estes Park from Estes Park Mountain Shop.

The cost to enter the park is $25 / vehicle or use your America The Beautiful Pass. There is no Timed Entry Permit requirement in the winter months. 

For more information, be sure to check out: Rocky Mountain National Park: Things To Do In Winter

Rocky Mountain National Park Tour From Denver 

Don’t have a car? Or rather not drive to the mountains in snow? No problem.

There’s numerous tours available from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Consider this highly rated tour with Aspire Tours:  Rocky Mountain National Park Tour From Denver .

This tour allows you 4 hours in the park, which is plenty for a winter visit. The tour is for small groups so needs to be booked in advance, especially if traveling with a group.

For more ideas, check out The Best Rocky Mountain National Park Tours . This includes winter tours and tours from Denver.

Breckenridge (Option 2) 

1 hour, 50 minutes from Denver 

Breck, as it’s referred to by most, is a highly popular ski town located just under 2 hours from the city.

It’s largely known for its impressive skiing and snowboarding (some of the best in North America) and abundance of winter activities. However, that’s not all it has to offer.

Historic downtown is full of great shops, dining, nightlife, galleries, and museums. Many of which you’ll find in colorful, restored homes dating back to the late 1800’s.

You could easily spend all day just exploring downtown.

Note: Traffic along I-70, from Denver to the ski resorts, can be significant during winter weekends, be sure to plan accordingly. 

You May Also Like: Breckenridge In Winter: Top Things To Do

Tours From Denver To Breckenridge

Interested in seeing Breck via guided tour? Many are! Check out this tour by  The Colorado Sightseer .

The all day adventure includes stops at Red Rocks, Clear Creek Canyon, and Loveland Pass in addition to Breckenridge.

This tour is very popular so be sure to book in advance.

This is a great way to see some of Colorado’s most beautiful highlights in just one day!

Quick Winter Day Trips From Denver

Looking for something closer to the city?

Consider the following destinations, which are all within an hour drive of downtown, and offer great outdoor activities any time of year:

• Roxborough State Park
• Idaho Springs
• Colorado Springs & Garden of the Gods
• Evergreen Ice Rink

You May Also Like: The Best Quick Day Trips From Denver

Go Ice Skating

Prefer not to leave town? No problem! Go ice skating in Denver’s Skyline Park or McGregor Square Skate.

Sitting under the lofty buildings of downtown, and among the bustle of the 16th Street Mall, is the Downtown Denver Rink in Skyline Park.

This pop-up skate rink has been a highlight of Denver winters since 2009. Bring your own blades and skate for free or rent a pair on site.

Following your skating excursion, grab a hot chocolate and walk the shops on the 16th Street Mall.

Also consider Denver’s newest outdoor skate rink, located in McGregor Square.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Denver During Winter

Denver Food Halls

For dinner, pop into one of Denver’s many food halls for some local grub.

The food hall scene has exploded in Denver over the past few years, leaving visitors with an excellent variety of delicious food options. 

Best Food Halls In Downtown Denver: 

• Denver Milk Market
• Avanti Food & Beverage
• The Source Hotel + Food Hall
• Zepplin Station
• Denver Central Market

You May Also Like: The Best Food Halls In Denver

Visit A Local Brewery In RiNo

If you’re up for it, grab a local brew in the highly popular RiNo neighborhood following dinner.

The River North Art District, referred to simply as “RiNo,” is located on the northern edge of downtown.

The area has undergone a massive industrial revival in the past decade.

It’s transformed old, run-down buildings, giving life to fun new restaurants, breweries, and art galleries.

While many buildings still maintain their industrial feel, they’ve been heavily modernized. Not to mention, brightened with street art and massive murals from local artists… Seriously,  so  many murals.

Exploring RiNo’s colorful murals and thriving brewery scene is a favorite among many during their Denver winter vacation. 

Denver Winter Vacation: Day 3  

Sunday brunch in denver.

Brunch is a must when visiting Denver.

Around town you’ll find locals and visitors indulging in breakfast classics and new flavors alike.

Below are a few of the best spots to grab brunch in Denver.

Keep in mind, wait times can be very long. It’s best to arrive early, or pack your patience.

Best Brunch In Denver

• The Denver Biscuit Company
• Snooze A.M. Eatery
• Lucile’s Creole Cafe
• City O’ City
• Sassafras American Eatery

For a full list of my favorite brunch options, check out The Best Brunch Spots In Denver

Explore Meow Wolf 

Meow Wolf is the latest craze to open in Denver, and something you must consider during your Denver winter vacation. 

It’s an incredible immersive art experience that will keep you entertained for hours.

Get lost (literally) in this outrageous 90,000 square foot, 4-story interactive art exhibit created by over 300 diverse artists.

This unique establishment is one of the best places to visit during your time in Denver.

It’s open 7 days a week and tickets need to be reserved in advance.  

If Meow Wolf isn’t for you, consider spending the morning at a museum instead. I listed a number of options in the “Day 1” section of this literary.  

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheater 

Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of Colorado’s most unique attractions, and one of the best things to do in Denver during winter.

It’s the worlds only naturally-occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater, and it’s only 30 minutes west of downtown.

This music venue opened in the early 1900’s and has since seen everyone from Johnny Cash and The Beatles to Stevie Wonder perform on its iconic stage.

Today the venue hosts hundreds of diverse musical performers every year.

During winter you may miss out on live music, but you’ll instead experience beautiful Red Rocks Park when the crowds are gone and snow covers the ground.

You can even hop on stage, and stand where many musical legends have performed!

The park is free as long as there’s no event. 

Tour Red Rocks Amphitheater From Denver

Again, if you don’t have a car or would prefer not to drive in inclement weather, there are tour options available.

Consider this popular half day tour which includes stops at Red Rocks Amphitheater, Lookout Mountain, and Golden: Denver & Foothills Mountains Small Group Tour .

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

If time permits, also consider stopping by Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge during your Denver winter vacation. 

It’s a 16,000-acre wildlife refuge located about 10 miles north of downtown, near Commerce City.

This is one of the largest urban wildlife refuges in the country.

It’s home to deer, coyotes, bald eagles, and the refuge’s most popular residents — the great American bison.

There are trails around the park and a scenic drive, Wildlife Drive.

The Wildlife Drive is perfect for a winter visit, as you can see the animals from the warmth of your car.

Have Delicious Mexican Food For Dinner 

Mexican food is extremely popular in Denver and a personal favorite for me.

From street tacos to smothered burritos, you’ll have no problem finding something savory and delicious here. 

Some of Denver’s most popular Mexican eateries are La Loma (my personal favorite), Machete, El Taco De Mexico, Rio Grande, and Lola Coastal Mexican.

Be sure to try something with green chili, a spicy stew-like mix of green chilies.

This regional staple originates from New Mexico and has been proudly adopted across the state of Colorado.

Dessert At Little Man Ice Cream

Yes, ice cream in winter, just trust me. 

This Denver icon serves fresh homemade ice cream in unique and traditional flavors from an iconic 28 foot tall cream can… You have to see it to believe it.

Little Man offers a scoop of “vintage American nostalgia” — a perfect way to end your Denver winter vacation. 

The Best Things To Do In Denver During The Holidays

Visiting the Mile High City during the holiday season?

Consider adding one of the following activities to your vacation itinerary:

• Shop at the Denver Christkindlmarket.
• Enjoy the Denver Blossom of Lights at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
• Join in on Hammond’s Candy Factory tour (they offer free tours!).
• Visit the Denver Zoo for their annual Denver Zoo Lights.
• See the holiday lights of The Denver City & County Building (this is one of my favorite things to do over the holidays, and it’s free!).

For my full list, check out 25 Festive Things To Do In Denver During Christmas !

What To Wear In Denver During Winter

My 3 day denver winter packing list:.

• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of leggings
• 1 fleece jacket 
• 2 lightweight long sleeves (such as a cardigan or flannel)
• Warm jacket (warm and waterproof is excellent)
• 2 pairs of shoes (boots, heels, tennis shoes, crocs, whatever… just skip the sandals)

Tip: Denver’s winter weather can vary widely throughout the day, layers are well utilized here.

If there’s snow in the forecast or the high’s below 40°F, also pack:

• Warm base layers or long underwear  
• Warm pair of gloves
• Hat or earmuffs
• Scarf 
• Pair of boots (If snowing you’ll want weather proof boots with sturdy traction. If you don’t have snow boots that’s okay, for example rain boots work fine in a pinch.) 

If heading to the mountains for snow activities, you will also need:

• Warm base layers or long underwear
• Warm and waterproof jacket
• Pair of warm and waterproof gloves
• Pair of warm and waterproof pants 
• Pair of wool socks 
• Snow boots 

If you are headed to the mountains, be sure to also check out What To Wear In Colorado During Winter .

This covers what to wear in the mountain towns, including ski trips and outdoor activities like snow tubing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling.

As you can see, there is so much to do in Denver during winter.

Any questions or comments? Please leave a comment below!

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy  on Instagram or  @seenbyamy  on TikTok!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Denver and Colorado guides or head on over to Visit Colorado .

Looking for a warmer winter vacation? Check out these Warm Winter Getaways In The USA

More Information For Your Trip To Denver:

• Winter In Denver: The Best Things To Do
• Christmas In Denver: Festive Things To Do During The Holidays
• Christmas Pop-Up Bars In Denver
• LoDo Denver: Top Things To Do
• Quick Day Trips From Denver
• Popular Day Trips From Denver
• 24 Hours In Denver: What To Do
• Brunch In Denver: The Best Places For Breakfast
• Top Denver Food Halls

More Information For Your Trip To Colorado:

• Rocky Mountain National Park In Winter: Things To Do
• Rocky Mountain National Park: The Best Tours
• Colorado Springs: The Best Things To Do During Winter
• Boulder In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Boulder, Colorado: How To Spend One Day Here
• Aspen In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Breckenridge In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Vail In Winter: Best Things To Do
• Estes Park In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Colorado In Winter: The Most Magical Places To Visit
• What To Wear In Colorado In Winter (For Mountain Towns & Ski Trips)

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

Disclaimer: This post may contain commissionable links, these are at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.

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Winter In Denver | Tips For Snow Season In Denver (By A Local)

Winter in Denver makes for a magical trip filled with crisp Rocky Mountain air and wonderful snow. Keep reading for my tips to make your next winter vacation to Denver amazing.

Don’t Be Shy Of The Winter In Denver

Winter in Denver is usually mild with light snowfall and cooler temperatures. Despite what you may believe, Denver sees plenty of sunshine with warm days popping up in the dead of winter. 

Temperatures can dip below 10 degrees at night, and snow can accumulate over 8 inches in a single storm, but these are rare cases and I will answer the most common questions about the winter in Denver and what to expect from the snow season in Denver. 

Understanding the Snow Season In Denver

I moved to Denver in 2010 and call it home. During that time, I experienced a wide range of weather patterns with plenty of snow every season. 

Before we dive into more questions, I need to express the importance of the Denver snow season and why it’s different than other parts of Colorado. 

Tip #1: Don’t let the weather forecast trick you. Despite the probability of snow in Denver, the forecast for any given week may change even just a few hours before the expected snowfall. 

Sometimes we may expect a few inches and a foot of snow happens to dump overnight. We may brace for a snowstorm but small flurries may occupy the skies. 

Even with proper snowfall, different parts of the city will experience different levels of accumulation than others. 

Generally speaking, parts of the Denver metro area closer to the mountains will experience more snow than on the eastern side with downtown Denver seeing an average between both. 

Snowfall usually lasts a day at most with slight to moderate accumulation. Denver rarely sees huge snowstorms that shut down the city. 

After a snowstorm in Denver, the sun usually pops out, melting the snow on the roads and sidewalks in a day or two. I’ve personally seen plenty of warm sunny days melting away any evidence of the previous day’s accumulation. 

Throughout the winter months, Denver sees plenty of sun with 60 degree days sprinkled throughout our coldest months. 

Tip #2: Don’t let the fear of snow keep you from making plans in Denver. The snow is here today and gone tomorrow. 

Despite the high elevation, Denver isn’t located in the mountains and is drastically different from the cities located in the mountains. Mountain cities like Aspen, Vail, and Steamboat Springs will receive feet of snow overnight with mounds sticking around all winter. 

It may be sunny and sixty degrees in Denver, but the mountains could see over a foot of snowfall during the same hours of the same day. 

Tip #3: If you plan on a trip to the mountains from November through April, do check the forecast and local weather reports for that particular city. 

How Cold Is Denver In The Winter?

Depending on the month, Denver’s nighttime lows will drop to about 15°F, and rise to a daytime high between 45-55°F, but elevation plays a big role in how we feel these temperatures. 

Since Denver is over 5000 feet above sea level, the sun feels more intense, and combined with the low humidity, the daytime feels about ten degrees warmer than the actual temperature. 

At night, the low humidity makes the evenings feel wonderfully crisp and cold, where most jackets will work to keep you warm. This differs from cities like Chicago and New York where the low elevation makes the cold feel frigid and terrible. 

Does Denver Get A Lot Of Snow?

No, Denver does not get a lot of snow during the winter months. For me, I think the snowfall is mild with each snowstorm only bringing a few inches. 

Snow is infrequent and only sticks around for a day or two before the sun melts it away. 

Please understand that “a lot of snow” is relative, but don’t expect mounds of snow to stick around and keep you from normal plans. 

Tip#4: Don’t cancel or change your plans if it snows in Denver. Even with a severe snowstorm, most places in Denver stay open, with plenty of people enjoying normal activities around the city. If your plans take you to an awesome brunch spot in Denver , keep it open or call ahead to double check the opening hours.  

What Month Does It Start Snowing In Denver?

The first snowfall in Denver happens in October but is only a flurry with very light accumulation. The snow always melts the next day and will not disturb any plans in the city. As fall progresses to winter, more snow will fall, but only a few inches should be expected. 

Tip #5: Always expect the possibility of snow. When I moved to Denver in July 2010, I actually experienced a very short snow flurry that slowly progressed to rain. Nothing crazy but it was the first time I watched a sunny 70 degree day turn to snow in only a few hours. 

What Month Does Denver Get the Most Snow?

Depending on the year, March is the snowiest month, averaging 9-12 inches. Despite this fact, other months may beat out March, like in 2023 when January scored 11 inches of snow in the central Denver area with March barely breaking 3 inches. 

Tip #6: The weather in the winter months is unpredictable, but always pack a few snow friendly items such as winter hats and gloves on the off chance your stay includes a snowstorm. 

Remember, the sun feels more intense because of the elevation, so snow always melts quickly, so your plans should go smoothly no matter the winter month. 

How Long Is the Snow Season In Denver?

The snow season in Denver starts with flurries in October and ends with light snow showers in April with December through March having the heaviest snowfall.

Large snow storms are rare in Denver with each incident only adding a couple of inches of accumulation at a time. 

As I mentioned earlier, sunny weather plays a big role in snow removal usually melting the snow on roads and sidewalks a day or two after the snowfall. 

Flying Into Denver With Snow

Tip #7 Do not change your flight because the forecast calls for snow.

Even with snow, Denver will still operate flights until it deems the storm is too severe for planes. Yes, flights will still land and take off even with snow falling.

This does not guarantee anything, so please don’t misunderstand. Flights may be canceled for any reason or with any amount of snow. Everything depends on the Denver International Airport. 

I have personal experiences with take offs and landings from Denver with snow falling. Nothing scary happened and it was smooth sailing like any other type of weather. 

Even traveling from the Denver airport to Downtown isn’t stopped by the snow, with the continuous running Denver Airport Rail running 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Final Thoughts On The Winter In Denver

Snow happens in Denver, but I think the winters stay relatively mild with snow accumulations only gaining a few inches with each snowfall. 

Most of the snow season in Denver consists of fast moving storms that drop a few inches before being melted the next day by the sun. 

Even with larger accumulations of snow, the city remains open and people go about their usual plans without any interruptions. 

Just remember that everything I wrote about are estimates and summaries and there are no definite rules for the weather in Denver. 

If you plan a visit to Denver for the winter months, plan ahead and pack accordingly. 

Related Articles About Traveling To Denver, Colorado

How To Get From The Denver Airport To Downtown   (By A Local) BEST Brunch In Denver: 8 BEST Brunch Spots In Denver, CO

Chris Kretzer has traveled the world visiting over 35 countries and eating his way through every city. With his wife Tiarra, they explore different food cultures and create food guides, podcasts , and travel articles helping everyone experience the world through food.

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Backpacking in the USA , Winter Travel

The best things to do in denver in winter.

Continuing the winter travel series, I asked Colorado expert Dalya from Sweet Little Journey to share her tips for the best things to do in Denver in winter.  There are plenty of fabulous winter activities in Denver Colorado to choose from, so read on for Dalya’s top recommendations!

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Know Before You Go to Denver

Before travelling to Denver, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

🛌 MY FAVOURITE ACCOMMODATION IN DENVER:

$$ Residence Inn Denver City Center : a kitchen and dishwasher in every room

$$ Element Denver Downtown East : convenient downtown location 

$ Ember Hostel : stylish boutique hostel in a historic mansion

⭐ TOP 3 DENVER ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1. Cannabis-Friendly Mountain Sunset Tour with Guide

2. Downtown Aquarium All-Day Pass

3. From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter Tour

Why Visit Denver During the Winter?

It appears as though Denver has won the winter lottery; it’s sunny and decently warm in the winter, but also has some of the best skiing in the US within an hour’s drive!

There are so many things to do in Denver during the winter that is an endless source of entertainment for couples, families and solo travelers alike.  Denver is an incredibly diverse city, packed with museums, parks, street art, restaurants, bars, comedy clubs and of course the Denver Zoo!

From December through till January, Denver turns into a magical winter wonderland especially right after a snowfall. You’ll find the heart of downtown full of holiday lights and Christmas trees, the annual Christkindl Market and Santa parades! The rest of the winter months bring beautiful powdery snow which makes for perfect skiing conditions in any of Colorado’s nearby ski towns.

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Winter Weather in Denver

Generally, winter is fairly mild in Denver. Average temperatures range from -7 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit and since the mountain air here is so dry, it doesn’t feel as cold as it sounds. Snow piles up on the ground after a major snowfall but evaporates after a few days due to the dryness. The heaviest and most frequent snowfalls happen in March, and this is the best time to go into the mountains for some skiing.

Although winters are long, Denver is actually one of the sunniest cities in America, averaging 300 days of sunshine a year! The sun and the dry climate combined make winter mild and enjoyable. You’re likely to experience a lot of weather fluctuations throughout the day – the morning can start off extremely cold and by the afternoon it may feel like summer. It’s also not unlikely to have a 50 degree jump in 24 hours!

It’s important to be very careful on the road since often they don’t get cleaned immediately after a snowfall. Mountain roads can be treacherous during a snowfall and it’s best to avoid driving any of the mountain passes while it is snowing. Some mountain passes even close down during extreme weather conditions.

What to Wear in Denver in Winter

One of the most common running jokes among locals is that Denver (and all of Colorado) has 4 seasons a day! Evenings and mornings are cold and you’ll find yourself bundling up in a winter parka, and by the afternoon you’re likely to undress down to t-shirt and shorts due to the heat from the sun.

Locals like to dress in layers so that it’s easy to adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Snowstorms can start and end sporadically so you always have to be prepared if you’re out on a hike or exploring the city. It’s not unusual to have a snowstorm one day followed by sun, heat and 70 degrees the next.

You’ll want to pack lots of layers and a warm jacket so that you can adjust based on the ever-changing temperature.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: 10 Things to do in Colorado Springs in Winter

Things to do in Denver in Winter

You’ll never run out of things to do in Denver, no matter what season you visit! 

Here are some of the top things to do in Denver at any time of year: 

• Downtown Denver Food Tour
• Cannabis-Friendly Mountain Sunset Tour with Guide
• From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter Tour
• Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods
• Walking Tour of Lower Downtown Neighborhood in Denver
• Denver Bike and Brew Tour
• Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure

You can browse more tours and attractions in Denver here . I use GetYourGuide to book tours and attractions or you can browse options on Viator here if you prefer. While you’re visiting Denver, plan to visit Colorado Springs as well!  

FIND A TOUR IN DENVER

Here are some of the best things to do in Denver in Winter! Some of these are great any time of year but most of these places look just a little more magical with a white dusting of snow.

This is the largest park in Denver and boasts beautiful views of the Denver skyline against a mountain backdrop. There’s lots of room to relax, walk, bike, picnic or fly a kite! This park has some of the best views of the Denver skyline and surrounding mountains. Enjoy a stroll here while taking in some of the beautiful views. City Park is located just south of the Denver Museum of Nature, so you could visit both of these places while you’re here.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: How to Make the Most of Phoenix in Winter

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Whether you’re here to catch a concert or just enjoy the views, Red Rocks Park is not a place to be missed! It’s one of the most unique concert venues in the US and hosts some of Colorado’s best concerts throughout the year. Tickets sell out fast so make sure to check the schedule and snag your tickets before they’re gone. There are several hikes that start from Red Rocks Park and are fairly easy and rewarding. This park is especially nice during winter when you can see the stark contrast between the red rocks sprinkled with white snow.

Denver zoo is home to more than 4000 animals representing 600 species and sprawling across 80 acres near City Park. This is the most popular paid attraction in Denver and the most visited cultural destination in Colorado. Denver Zoo is a nonprofit organization which is committed to saving animals and conserving wildlife while bringing science education to life. Denver Zoo provides close encounters with animals of all kinds.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: The Ultimate Guide to Boston in Winter

Dine in an Outdoor Dome

Denver has set up some of these outdoor heated domes all around town to accommodate outdoor dining in cooler months. You can find these all over the city and enjoy dining outside while enjoying city views. These aren’t tied to a particular restaurant so you’ll find some in parks, on pedestrian-only streets and next to established restaurants.

Visit the RiNo Art District

The River North (RiNo) Art district is a famous landmark in Denver, known for the multitude of impressive murals sprinkled around four historical neighborhoods. Here you can find numerous contemporary art galleries, food halls, cocktail lounges and pubs. Visitors like to go on an art scavenger hunt to find all these murals, some of which make for really great photo-ops!

Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re looking to get outdoors and into nature, Rocky Mountain National Park is just 1.5 hours away from Denver and the perfect day trip for experiencing some of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes.  You can rent cross country skis or snowshoes in Denver and go on one of Rocky Mountain’s numerous snowy trails.  Alternatively, spend the night there and enjoy a wonderful weekend trip from Denver .

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: The Best National Parks to Visit in Winter

Rocky Mountain National Park is open year round, but some roads may be closed due to weather conditions. Make sure to check the National Park Service website for up to date information on road closures and conditions. A day pass costs 25$ per vehicle, or free if you have the annual national park pass.

You might also like these tours to the Rocky Mountain National Park:

Dillon Ice Castles

This is a truly unique attraction located just an hour outside of Denver and is a must-see if you’re visiting Denver in the winter. The Ice Castles can only be seen in four locations around the US, and Dillon hosts one of them. This frozen attraction is an award-winning experience that’s built using thousands of icicles that are hand-placed by professional artists.

The castles are lit up with different colored LED lights at night to create a truly breath-taking display. Visitors are allowed to walk around the Ice Castles, explore various tunnels, see the fountains and even go down an epic ice-slide! 

Christmas in Denver

Christmas in Colorado is a wonderful time of year, and Christmas in Denver feels cozy and magical. Downtown Denver transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights and Christmas trees. There is a Parade of Lights full of floats and displays around the city, starting at the end of November.

Christkindl Market is an annual event that brings authentic German and European holiday traditions to the heart of Denver. You’ll find lots of authentic German holiday traditions, European coffee, Bavarian beers, hot chocolate and charming shops selling handmade gifts.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Visiting Orlando in Winter

Denver Zoo Lights

Every Christmas, Denver Zoo puts on a festive spectacle inside the Zoo grounds. Hundreds of animal sculptures are lit up with LED lights to make a magical walk-through experience. Tickets work on a timed entry to stagger visitors and reduce congestion, meaning you’re allowed to enter during a specific time period and stay as long as you want!

There are several food stands serving hot chocolate, popcorn and other snacks and beverages, ice carving competitions and a 4D movie experience you could add on to your ticket!

Georgetown Loop Holiday Train

This polar express experience brings magic to every child and adult alike. Visitors board the train at the North Pole station, where hot cocoa is served along with freshly baked cookies and other goodies. Once the train is ready for passengers, visitors take their assigned seats in one of the coaches. Some types of tickets include food and drinks, others just include the ride.

The train takes you through Colorado’s mountains and forests where a lit up display of lights is waiting to be seen! Santa also makes his appearance at some point during the ride and hands out goodies to every child on the train. This is an unforgettable experience and an absolute must!

Christmas in Color

This drive-through light show is a perfect way to relax after a busy day exploring the city. You can sit back in your car and enjoy the display of animated lights synchronized to music playing on a special channel in your car’s radio! For an added bonus, you can put on your 3D glasses and see some extra effects. This experience is located in Westminster, just a few minutes drive north of Denver. 

New Year in Denver

The Mile High Tree is a must if you’re staying in Denver for New Year. This is a 110-foot tall immersive art installation that synchronizes lights to music and is right in the heart of Denver. The tree is lit up from late November until early January and is free to access! Make sure not to miss the Winter Wonderland Light Walk while you’re seeing the Mile High Tree – this is a stretch of 16 blocks that are sparkling with more than half a million lights, choreographed to music.

For something a little more active, check out the ice skating dance party on New Year’s Eve at the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park. This is a free event if you have skates, but skates are also available for rent. Ice Skating is also available at the Denver International Airport Plaza, for free.

For some epic fireworks, head over to 16th Street Mall at 9pm to watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular. This event is also free!

Where to Stay in Denver This Winter

After a long day of exploring, hiking, and breathing in the fresh mountain air of Denver, Colorado, you’re going to need somewhere to unwind and get ready for another day of adventure!

Here are a few great options for hostels and hotels in Denver for your visit:

Ember Hostel : Housed in a historic mansion, this stylish boutique hostel provides a luxurious stay on a budget. Individual beds come equipped with pillow top mattresses, king-size pillows, personal privacy curtains, and in-bed outlets, lights, and storage.  >>>CHECK PRICES

Element Denver Downtown East : The downtown location makes it easy to explore the city and surrounding parks and nature. To help guests save money during their visit, select rooms feature a kitchen with a dishwasher, a microwave, and a fridge. >>>CHECK PRICES

Residence Inn Denver City Center : Every suite at this hotel has an in-room kitchen and dishwasher providing incredible value to guests on a budget. After exploring wintery Denver, warm up by the lobby fireplace!  >>>CHECK PRICES

If you’d like more options, you can browse all hostels in Denver on Hostelworld , or find great value hotels on Booking . There are also various options for Airbnbs in Denver too, take a look at some of the rental homes available here .

BROWSE HOTELS IN DENVER

Top Winter Travel Tips for Denver

I hope I’ve inspired you to visit Denver in the winter, there is so much to see and do here in the wintertime.  As long as you wrap up warm and prepare for the cold weather I’m sure you will have a wonderful time!  Here are a few more top tips to help you book your Denver vacation:

Getting There

• Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to your destination.
• Public buses are the cheapest ways to get to your accommodation from the airport, but a shared shuttle transfer is quicker and cheaper than a taxi - you can pre-book those on GetYourGuide or Viator
• Try Omio for booking trains and Busbud for buses including Greyhound and Flixbus.

Where to Stay

• For hotels, I use Booking.com to check reviews and find the best deals on hotels and apartments wherever I'm travelling to.  Hotels.com is another good site.
• If you're on a tight budget, use Hostelworld to find the best hostels all over the world

• Get a quote for car hire with Discover Cars who compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.

Book Tours and Activities

• I use GetYourGuide or Viator to book everything from skip-the-line entry tickets to food tours as I can compare options from several companies and choose the best one for me
• If you're staying in a hostel, check out their tours and activities which are usually free or very cheap - and a great way to meet people!  

Get Travel Insurance

• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I never leave home without travel insurance, so consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like adventure sports and activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, stolen items, trip cancellation and more.  
• Get a quote for your trip from True Traveller if you're based in the UK, or World Nomads or SafetyWing which both offer travel insurance for backpackers and long-term travellers.  Alternatively, use a comparison site like Travel Insurance Master to find the best cover for you.

Check Your Travel Documents

• Don't forget to check the validity of your passport and any other documents for your trip.  Use iVisa to check if you need a visa to visit your destination, and get up to date official travel advice from your government, for example on the Department of State website in the US or the UK government website .

Get Cheap Currency

• When travelling abroad, using a travel bank account like Wise means you get great deals on foreign currency - including a fee-free transfer of up to £500 when you use this link to sign up . 

Top Money Saving Tip for Backpackers

• Work exchanges are a great way to travel for longer and extend your trip as you can save a ton of money on accommodation.  Get an extra $10 discount on Worldpackers here or learn more about work exchanges .

About the Author

I’m Dalya, the creator, writer and photographer behind Sweet Little Journey . I drag my husband and two kids around the world with me so that I can take cute photos of them in some pretty remote places! My family and I currently call Colorado home and absolutely love everything that it has to offer. I love the mountains and nature and get out hiking as much as possible, wherever possible. Thankfully Boulder makes that easy with all of its hiking trails and mountains in every direction!  You can also find me on Instagram & Facebook .

Want More Winter Travel Ideas?

• Chicago in Winter
• Boston in Winter
• Denver in Winter
• Colorado Springs in Winter
• Phoenix in Winter
• Boise Idaho in Winter
• Orlando in Winter
• Salt Lake City in Winter
• Seattle in Winter
• National Parks in Winter
• Niagara Falls in Winter
• Toronto in Winter
• Banff in Winter
• Lake Louise in Winter

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Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

1 thoughts on “ The Best Things to do in Denver in Winter ”

Funny enough, I live close to Denver but have never been to the national park! Thanks for all the inspo!

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Free Things to Do in Denver in the Winter

Looking for an action-packed winter wonderland? Look no further than Denver, Colorado. Though the state’s capital never fails to please art-lovers, foodies and outdoor adventurers, the Mile High City is particularly enchanting in the winter months, when snow blankets the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

With free ice skating, festive parades, cozy eateries and art celebrations, Denver offers a vibrant winter scene for all types of travelers. The city is also a convenient weekend or day trip from Rocky Mountain National Park as well as a number of popular ski resorts, including Winter Park Resort. Adventurous travelers will find no shortage of hiking trails and outdoor activities including sledding, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snow tubing in the neighboring mountains.

Bundle up and venture out into the cold with our list of 17 free things to do in Denver this winter season.

Think you know the Mile High City? Read these 10 things you didn’t know about Denver.

1. Free Ice Skating in Denver

Downtown denver ice skating.

The Downtown Denver Rink returns every winter from November to February to celebrate Denver’s holiday spirit. A popular winter activity, the ice rink attracted more than 40,000 skaters last year.

Located in Skyline Park at 1601 Arapahoe St., the ice rink is free to all who bring their own skates. Adults can rent a pair of skates for $11 and kids 12 and under can rent a pair for $9. All ages are welcome.

Denver International Airport Ice Skating

Are you a traveler arriving or passing through the Mile High City in the winter? Take advantage of the airport’s completely free ice rink and go ice skating in the Denver International Airport Plaza.

Find this 40 x 60-foot rink between the Jeppesen Terminal and the Westin Hotel. The rink is typically open November through January from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Pick up your free rentals inside the Westin and hit the ice!

SheBuysTravel Tip: Magical outdoor ice skating rinks abound throughout Colorado during the winter months.

2. First Friday Art Walks

Denver embraces its art communities with monthly celebrations that take place in neighborhoods across Denver. Scheduled for the first Friday of every month, First Friday Art Walks feature cultural performances, music, art exhibits, art walks and more in Denver’s art districts.

My favorite is the Santa Fe art district. From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., this event draws crowds to Santa Fe Drive to enjoy cultural exhibits and tasty food trucks.

3. Explore More with Denver Story Trek

Transport Denver’s history directly to your cell phone with the free downloadable Denver Story Trek. Pick up a free map at one of the city’s museums and set off to explore the city on a self-guided tour.

4. Warm-up at LoDo’s Tattered Cover Bookstore

Step out of the snow and into the Tattered Cover Bookstore at McGregor Square , one of the largest independent bookstores in the U.S. where many famous authors host free book signings. Sip your favorite coffee drink while perusing the shop’s extensive selection of books, games, cards and stationery. For travelers, this is the perfect stop as WiFi and browsing are free.

A second Tattered Cover Bookstore is located across from Denver East High School and a satellite store is located inside Denver’s Union Station.

5. Be a Fan at the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Sports fans won’t want to miss the free Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum, which pays tribute to the sports legends of the state. Located at the Sports Authority Field at Mile High, the museum is open Thursday through Saturday.

6. Channel your Inner Fashionista at Rockmount Ranch Wear

Fashionistas remember the Wild West by browsing the historic Rockmount Ranch Wear, the inventor of the western snap-button shirt. Located in LoDo, the walls are a celebrity gallery of famous personalities, from Elvis Presley to Toby Keith, who have worn their shirts.

While the store is free to browse and window shop, you’ll be tempted to purchase a snap-button Western shirt.

7. Denver’s Christmas Market

Located at Skyline Park, the family-friendly Christkindl Market is Denver’s version of the European Christmas Market. Entry is free and the market is open mid November through December 23. Local artisans and vendors from all over the world, including Germany, Ukraine, and Ireland offer hand-carved figurines, candles, ornaments and more for sale. Listen to traditional Christmas carols and live German music. Traditional German food, hot spiced wine and hot chocolate are available for purchase.

8. Grand Illumination

Downtown Denver’s Grand Illumination lights up downtown each year. The streets of the city shine brightly when the switch is turned on from Denver Union Station . The lights stay on through the end of December.

Held late November, the annual Grand Illumination kick-off event features the lighting of the station’s outdoor 40-foot-tall Mile High Tree tree with more than 7,000 holiday lights. Stick around to meet Santa, hear holiday classics from the Denver Dolls and then splurge with drinks at the Terminal Bar at Union Station.

Also in Union Station, an outdoor light show called Merry & Bright Lights displays mesmerizing imagery across the façade of Denver’s landmark train station. Created by local artists, this free show will run from Thanksgiving until just after Christmas from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. each evening.

SheBuysTravel contributor Liana Moore’s family loves visiting the historic Denver Union Station and The Crawford Hotel . Year-round her son loves to watch the trains arrive and depart. Unique art is scattered throughout. During the summer a spray park and farmer’s market entertain the kids.

9. Parade of Lights Weekend and Holiday Lights

Everyone loves a parade , and downtown Denver boasts a fair share. Thousands of locals and travelers flock to downtown for a front-row seat to three Mile High parades in the winter. Begin with the best holiday displays during the 9NEWS Parade of Lights Weekend , held in early December. This nighttime parade features marching bands, ornate floats and appearances by Major Waddles, the Penguin and Santa.

Miss the parade? Take a walk or a drive around the Mile High City. Its holiday lights, especially on the City and County Building, will bring a smile to kids of all ages.

10. New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Ring in the new year with a mile high bundle of fireworks. the first set of fireworks will light up the sky at 9 p.m., and a second show will ignite at midnight. for the best viewing, snag a spot along the 16th street mall in downtown denver. (even on new year’s eve, you’ll find family-friendly things to do in denver .).

11. National Western Stockshow & Rodeo Parade

Texas Longhorn cattle are driven through the streets of downtown every January during the annual Rodeo Parade during National Western Stockshow and Rodeo. This celebration of everything western brings cowboys and cowgirls, horses, live music, floats and horseback riders to welcome the kick-off of one of the world’s largest indoor rodeos, the National Western Stock Show each January in Denver.

12. Free Museum Days

From Denver’s Zoo to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the Mile High City offers multiple free museum days in 2023. Here’s a quick list for 2023:

• Clyfford Still Museum: November 4 and December 3
• Denver Art Museum: November 4, November 14 and December 12
• Denver Museum of Nature and Science : December 4th
• Museo De Las Americas :  Free every First Friday of the month
• Four Mile Historic Park: November 24th and December 122nd
• Free Days at the Denver Zoo via lottery: November 7 and November 12

13. Free Walking Tours

Offered daily at 10 am, these free Denver walking tours start at the Civic Center Park and wind through downtown Denver, ending at Coors Field. These free daily tours are the perfect introduction to the city’s history, architecture, landmarks and local businesses.

14. U.S. Mint Tour

When in Denver, one must-see stop is the U.S. Mint Tour. On free guided 45-minute tours, discover how 50 million coins are produced each day ad stamped with a “D” for Denver. Just be sure to request your free tickets ahead of time, as they are provided on a first come, first served basis.

15. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s Marade

United marchers and parade fans assemble at Denver’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s “Marade.” The memorial march and parade begins at City Park and then marchers continue to Civic Center Park, with the final stop at the Colorado State Capitol Building. This annual event is the largest MLK Jr. Day celebration in the U.S. This year’s march is scheduled for January 15, 2024.

16. St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Denver

The luck of the Irish will be with you when you attend downtown Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day parade , and join more than 200,000 parade fans for the largest St. Patty’s parade west of the Mississippi. This fun annual parade returns on March 16, 2024.

17. Hammond’s Candy Factory

Year-round, the Hammond’s Candy Factory indulges your sweet tooth with free tours. Learn how lollipops, candy canes and other Hammond’s treats are made on a 30-minute free tour of the factory.

Not on a tight budget?

If you’re willing to splurge, spend a night in The Brown Palace Hotel , a luxury hotel that has been open since 1892. With a spa and six unique bars and restaurants, the Brown Palace pampers its guests with an unforgettable stay at one of Denver’s finest hotels.

Known for its craft brew scene, Denver is the place to be if you’re a beer drinker. Explore some of the city’s local breweries, like Great Divide , Wynkoop Brewing Company and Cerebral Brewing , and spend the afternoon sampling craft beers.

Attend Denver Botanic Garden’s Blossoms of Light to celebrate the holiday spirit while enjoying stunning natural scenery. Open from mid-November 18th to early January, this annual event transforms the gardens into a winter wonderland and makes for a stunning romantic date or a Christmas adventure for the whole family.

Free Things to Do Outside of Denver

While downtown Denver is amazing, the outskirts of the city also offer fun things to do. Embrace the holiday season in Cherry Creek during its annual and free Winter Wonderland . The streets transform into a festive paradise with live ice carving, temporary fire pits, face painting, complimentary refreshments and giveaways.

Explore  Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre , an open-air amphitheater hosting world-famous musical acts and experience this stunning geological wonder.

Just 20 minutes from downtown Denver,  Golden is an Old-West-themed town that also celebrates the holidays with lights, parades and more. Located in Golden, Coors Brewery is the largest single-site brewery in the world. For $20, take a 60-minute tour of the facility and sample some brews.

If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway to the mountains, drive out to Breckenridge, located about a one-hour-and-45-minute drive from Denver. This historic town attracts skiers and other outdoor adventurers while boasting a rich gold rush history.

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23 Best Things to do in Denver in Winter Now

Visiting Denver in winter is an amazing and magical experience.

The Mile High City is the ultimate winter wonderland with icy landscapes, winter activities, and interesting events happening throughout the season.

Outdoor lovers can enjoy snow fun, sledding, skiing in the Rocky Mountains, taking the ski train to Winter Park, and gorgeous winter scenic drives.

Looking to stay warm and cozy indoors? Attend a winter concert or enjoy live music scene, visit the museums, and indulge in shopping!

The city also makes an excellent romantic weekend getaway with amazing winter date ideas Denver such as romantic dinners, high teas, and more.

Read all about top things to do in Denver in winter now!

Also Read: Denver to Mt. Rushmore Road Trip Guide

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

“Every day, the sun comes out and the sky’s always blue. That’s what I miss about Denver. “ – Dikembe Mutombo, the American athlete who played basketball for the Denver Nuggets

Why visit Denver in winter?

Denver in winter is all about romance and fun.

Wondering what to do in Denver in winter?

The city sparkles even in February – yes, while other cities take down their Holiday Lights, many areas of Downtown Denver keep them all year long!

There are a host of activities all winter starting from the Holiday Lights in November and December to Valentine’s Day festivities in February.

The city has many premier museums, restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Springs makes it great for outdoor adventures too.

Also Read: 22 Best City Breaks in the USA 10 Days Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Texas to Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Denver to San Francisco Drive

Outdoor Things to do in Denver in Winter

There are lots of outdoor things to do in Denver during winter from sledding, skiing, winter hikes, winter day trips to scenic places, taking strolls through walks etc.

Remember – Denver has an elevation of one mile above sea level – and you will need time to acclimatize, especially while enjoying outdoor activities! Stay hydrated to replenish oxygen and acclimatize faster.

Here are our favorite romantic and fun Denver winter attractions.

See icy landscapes at Denver’s City Park

Denver has many outdoor parks and gardens but the favorite with visitors is City Park.

The park is huge – over 300 acres! – and the center of activity for couples as well as families.

The City Park contains many of Denver’s premier attractions including the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Ferril and Duck Lakes, and the Colorado Museum of Natural History.

The views from the park are spectacular: shimmering lakes, lots of trees, the Denver skyline, Front Range, and the Rocky Mountains.

Walk along Ferril Lake or just people watch or play in the snow at City Park!

From the Prismatic Fountain, you can take the most popular shot of Denver with the fountain, lake, skyline, and the Rocky Mountains – one of popular date ideas in Denver in winter.

Take a romantic stroll at 16th Street Mall

Denver’s 16th Street Mall, located near Skyline Park, is a stunning pedestrian mall.

It is a hub for shopping, fine dining, and street art in the city and one of the best places to visit in Denver in winter.

The pedestrian Mall is designed by the famous Chinese American architect, I. M. Pei.

Fun fact – Pei’s famous architectural works include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha, Qatar and off course, the Louvre Museum pyramid in Paris!

The mile-long pedestrian mall extends from the Union Station to the Civic Center Station.

Along the mall, you will find trees that stay lit year round, sculptures, murals, street performers and more.  

The street looks charming and romantic at night!

The free mall bus runs every two to three minutes and is great to explore the area.

What to see in Denver in winter around Christmas?

During the holiday season, the 16th Street mall is home to the Mile High Tree – a dazzling light and music installation that makes for great photo ops!

During recent years, this has become one of most fun things to do in Denver in December.

Enjoy ice skating at the Downtown Denver ice rink

The Downtown Denver Rink at the Skyline Park is one of the best attractions in Denver, Colorado in winter.

The ice skating rink opens every winter starting November, just a few days before Thanksgiving.

The ice skating rink is free to everyone – all you need is a pair of ice skates to spin around this hottest Denver winter attraction!

Skate rentals are also available at the ice skating rink.

Be sure to bring warm woolen socks and mittens to keep your hands warm while enjoying ice skating in Skyline Park.

Don’t know ice skating? Attend one of the free lessons available on Sundays!

Many holiday events such as DJ concerts, Meeting Santa Claus, and more take place at the Denver ice rink on weekends.

The Downtown Denver rink is in season till the first week of February – check out the dates for this year as well as the winter activities in Denver here.

Looking for romance? The ice skating rink can be booked for private events outside of regular times: perfect for enjoying a secluded date or even proposing to your loved one!

Go sledding at Ruby Hill Park

You know the best kind of Denver winter activities? Those where you get to actually play and have fun in the snow!

We love sledding because there is absolutely no learning curve plus its super cheap.

Denver has lots of free sledding areas.

The most popular snow tubing hill in Denver is the Ruby Hill Park for its awesome slopes and huge space.

Other popular sledding locations include the Scott Carpenter Park in nearby Boulder and the Sledding Hill Park in Littleton.

Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride in Downtown Denver

The horse-drawn carriage rides by Irish Rose Drafts are an amazing way to experience the Mile High City.

The rides are available on weekends around the year and every day in the Holiday Season.

They also have special rides for Valentine’s Day.

The carriage rides pass by popular Downtown attractions including Skyline Park, Larimer Square, 16th Street Mall, and the Blue Bear sculpture at the Convention Center.

You will be able to see the city’s highlights from a magical carriage ride and snuggle under a warm blanket for the ultimate romantic experience.

Take a photo with Denver’s famous Blue Bear

Taking a photo with Denver’s famous Blue Bear sculpture located outside the Convention Center is a must when in Denver.

This giant sculpture of the bear taking a peek inside the building lobby is named ‘I See What You Mean’ and is created by local Denver artist, Lawrence Argent.

The bear is over 40 feet tall and imposing but the fun blue color makes it – kind of – playful!

Be sure to take a look from the inside too, it feels as if the giant blue bear is peeping in to see what’s happening inside.

See the Parade of Lights

What to do in Denver, Colorado in winter? See the Parade of Lights!

Denver’s Parade of Lights is one of Colorado’s most popular holiday festivals.

The Parade of Lights has beautiful lit-up floats, vibrant costumes, marching bands, dance troupes, horse riders, giant balloons, and of course Santa Claus!

The parade route is 2 miles long and there are plenty of viewing places along the route.

We recommend wearing mittens, hats, and scarves for the parade – as things can get cold quite fast even though it’s just the start of the winter.

Visit the Denver Christkindlmarkt

The Denver Christkindlmarket is a festive and vibrant place to get into the Holiday spirit!

The market began in 2000 and since then has become one of the city’s most anticipated holiday events.

You can take a stroll through the market and buy handmade jewelry, clothes, and other gifts.

Other attractions in the market include meeting the Christkind, trying German drinks, and eating delicious cuisine.

Watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Denver ushers in the New Year with a grand fireworks show.

The fireworks take place at the 16th Street Mall and can be seen from anywhere in the area.

The fireworks look beautiful behind Downtown Denver’s beautiful buildings.

The live music, street performers, and other events create the backdrop for the biggest free block party of the year!

Enjoy Denver’s rodeo in January

Denver’s National Western Stock Show is an annual event held in January of each year.

During the rodeo, visitor can see cowboys, horses, bullfights, livestock, and lassos!

The Stock Show has quite a variety of events from livestock auctions, parades, rodeos, bbq cookoffs, dance performances, and petting farms for kids.

It is one of the popular things to do in Denver in January.

Sip craft beers at the Winter Brew Fest

Denver’s Winter Brew Fest is where you want to be to sample all of Colorado’s most popular craft beers in one place.

The Winter Brew Fest is one of the top Denver, Colorado things to do in January.

Colorado is home to some of the country’s best known breweries including Coors in Golden and Blue Moon in Denver.

At the Brew Fest, you can sample unlimited quantities of beers from major breweries, microbreweries, and nanobreweries.

Indoor things to do in Denver in the winter

Not everyone loves being outdoors in winter.

And even if you love snow, sometimes you just need to spend quality time with your loved one in warm and cozy atmosphere!

Here are our favorite things to do in Denver when its cold.

Many of these attractions are located in either the Downtown of LoDo (Lower Downtown) area and easily accessible from the city center.

Enjoy dinner under the lights of Larimer Square

Historic Larimer Square in Downtown Denver is the Mile High City’s oldest commercial block.

The square is named after General William Larimer who founded Denver during the Wild West and Gold Rush times of the 19th century.

The late 19th century buildings surrounding Larimer Square are now historically preserved and restored; they now house a variety of businesses including restaurants, pubs, and boutique stores.

The charmingly-lit Larimer Square has many unique dining experiences and cuisines that will satisfy even the most picky eaters.

We recommend starting by taking a stroll around Larimer Square and then stepping inside whichever place takes your fancy.

Or for a more formal experience, make reservations and ask for a special table setting for two.

Bistro Vendome, Crimson Room, Euclid Hall Bar, and Rioja are some of the romantic bars and restaurants in the Square.

See the tropical plants in Denver Botanic Gardens

While the outdoor garden is a frozen winter wonderland with fall leaves frozen on some trees and red apples on others, the indoor tropical conservatory is ablaze with color.

The tropical conservatory has hibiscus, orchids, and other tropical flowers native to Africa, Asia, and South America.

Apart from flowers you will also find big leafy palm trees, citrus trees, and a warm, humid climate which will make you forget that you are still in Denver.

It is definitely one of the top things to do in Denver in the winter for nature lovers.

See the trains at Union Station

Since time immemorial, trains and majestic train stations have evoked nostalgia and romance.

Denver’s Union Station has amazing architecture and is worth a visit.

Stroll along the platforms, people watch, and dine at the eateries in Union Station while you listen to the sounds of train whistles and farewells.

Have more time? Take the Zephyr from Denver to Glenwood Springs – a half-day / 5 hrs trip – through breathtaking scenery for a weekend in Glenwood Springs!

See the Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol, located in Downtown, is one of the best places to visit in Denver, Colorado in winter.

The Capitol building sits exactly one mile high above sea level.

It is built from a rare red marble found locally known as Colorado rose onyx.

The golden dome is made from gold mined in the state and celebrates the state’s mining past.

The Capitol building offers free tours on the hour on weekdays.

On the tours, you can admire the Neoclassical architecture and shining Golden Dome of the building.

Inside, you will find lots of Colorado and Denver history, exhibits on the construction of the Capitol, and lots of interesting facts.

The Civic Center Park, located near the Capitol, is also a great place for a stroll.

The Civic Center Park has beautiful landscaping, public art, and more!

Visit the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is located in City Park premises.

The museum is built on the eastern edge of the park and has high elevation compared to the surrounding areas.

As a result, the Museum has beautiful views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Kids of all ages enjoy exhibits including dinosaur skeletons such as Stegosaurus and Diplodocus, natural history exhibits, exhibits on Egyptian mummies, and Native American culture.

Grab a book at the Tattered Cover Book Store

The Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver is as famous as the Strand Book Store in NYC.

The independent book store has many branches in various areas of Denver.

Three of these are convenient to visit during your trip: the LoDo on 16th Street location, the Union Station location, and the Denver International Airport Plaza book store.

The LoDo location is our favorite, it’s HUGE and has an enormous collection of books.

The store has author appearances as well as book signings and is a great place to shop for books.

The store also has a coffee shop and many couches and chairs spread throughout the store – perfect for reading on a cold day!

See the beautiful paintings at Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is one of the premier art museums in the USA and home to world class art work.

The museum is housed in an impressive building that reflects a mix of modernist and postmodernist architecture.

There are many striking outdoor sculptures near the entrance.

The museum has many art galleries dedicated to contemporary art, modern abstract art, Asian art, African Art, Native Arts from all over the world, photographs, textiles, and sculptures.

The museum also holds temporary exhibits for visitors.

Eat Rocky Mountain Oysters or elk steak

Colorado’s cuisine evolved from that of the Wild West, so hunting and wild game food play a major part since the earliest times.

Visitors can enjoy American, Japanese, Italian, Greek, and Thai cuisine in the city.

Be sure to try dishes iconic to Colorado, the most famous being Rocky Mountain Oysters!

If you are wondering what are they or how did the oysters get there, then definitely read more here – and if you have the stomach, then try a plate or two.

Other musts are wild game foods: elks steaks, buffalo burgers, wild boar meatloafs, braised duck, Colorado lamb chops, and Rocky Mountain trouts!

Visit the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame

The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame located in Denver honors Colorado’s famous sports legends.

Each year new Colorado sportsmen who excel in their field are inducted into the Hall of Fame.

The attached free museum is located at the Gate #1 of the Mile High Stadium (Denver Broncos Stadium).

Here you can wander through the collection and see great moments in Colorado sports, contribution of women and girls to Colorado sports, and information on all sportsperson who were inducted in the Hall of Fame.

You can also tour the stadium on a guided 75 mins tour which is a must for every Broncos fan.

You will be able to tour the box seats, locker rooms and get a behind-the-scenes look at the sports arena.

The Colorado Hall of Fame and Museum makes a perfect date for sports enthusiasts.

Things to do near Denver in winter

Denver has an amazing location.

Many of Colorado’s best attractions are within an hour from Denver, making half-day to day trips quite feasible.

In addition, the city offers great transport and shuttles to many nearby areas including the Ski Train to Winter Park.

Here are some of the best nearby Denver, Colorado things to do in winter

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre

The beautiful Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a unique rock structure which is used as an open-air amphitheatre.

The Red Rocks have perfect natural acoustics and the rock structure was formed over 200 million years ago.

The Red Rocks natural area was likely used by the Native Ute tribe since ancient times.

The amphitheatre was built in 1941 to provide seating for over 9000 people.

The walls of the amphitheatre contain records from the Jurassic period.

In Summer, many concerts are held at Red Rocks park.

While there are no concerts in winter, you can take free tour of the Amphitheatre and admire its natural setting.

The red rocks look beautiful when it is covered by a light layer of snow.

The Colorado Music Hall of Fame is located at the Trading Post in Red Rocks.

The Trading Post also has many Red Rocks souvenirs.

We recommend visiting both the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Colorado Hall of Fame if you are in the area.

Ski at Eldora Ski Resort

Eldora Mountain Resort is one of the most popular ski areas around Denver .

It is located near the town of Nederland along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

Eldora caters to day skiers and snowboarders and makes a great day trip from Denver.

Eldora Ski Resort also offers ski rentals and is a great winter activity near Denver and Idaho Springs.

It is one of the most popular Denver snow activities.

Snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park

No list of things to do in Denver, Colorado in winter can be complete without mentioning Rocky Mountains!

If you have an extra day in Denver, you can easily visit Rocky Mountain National Park on a winter day trip.

Rocky Mountain National Park looks stunning in winter with frozen lakes and waterfalls, spectacular rock formations, snow piles along road side, and lots of opportunities for outdoor activities.

There are many snowshoeing trails inside the park and you can rent snowshoes either in Downtown Estes Park or at REI in Denver.

One of our favorite hiking trails in RMNP is the Bear Lake Loop Trail.

Bear Lake has stunning views of the Continental Divide and is a fantastic hike for beginners.

What to pack for Denver in winter?

Pack a pair of thermal underwear , 3 t-shirts, 3 sweaters, a couple of jeans, and a coat – layering is the key to enjoying winter in Denver.

Use packing cubes to keep your bags compact and organized.

Other must haves include warm mittens for all the snow activities, gloves, woolen socks and hats, and warm scarves.

Don’t forget to pack a good pair of waterproof winter boots to enjoy winter things to do in Denver.

Where to stay in Denver?

We recommend staying near 16th Street Mall area so you can explore Denver Downtown attractions on foot.

The area has several amazing hotels for your stay. Here are some of our favorites:

The Curtis is a Doubletree hotel with unique themed floors and rooms.

It is amongst the 10 Best Art Hotels in America and you will find stunning artwork everywhere within the hotel.

The Curtis has an awesome location – it is just two blocks away from the free pedestrian mall bus stop which takes visitors to most major attractions.

A lot of eateries, restaurants, and pubs are also located near the hotel.

The on-site Corner Office is also great for breakfast and brunch.

Their bottomless mimosas are perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day vacation or girl’s weekend trip.

To book your stay at The Curtis now, click here .

Denver in winter is all about snowy fun and warm, cozy indoors activities.

What to do in Denver in December?

Plan a Christmas trip to Denver in December to see Christmas trees, experience holiday cheer, have a North Pole snow experience, enjoy hot chocolate, and meet Santa Claus!

What to do in Denver in February?

During the rest of the winter months, grab your cross country skis and head to Loveland ski area or Arapahoe basin ski area or see the Dillon ice castles or enjoy dog sledding in the Rockies!

Did you like our post on Denver, Colorado things to do in winter? Let us know in the comments.

Disclaimer: We received complimentary entry to many of Denver’s attractions, courtesy Visit Denver while the amazing team of The Curtis provided us with complimentary breakfast at the Corner Office. All opinions, including attractions recommendations, are completely our own!

1 thought on “23 Best Things to do in Denver in Winter Now”

This honestly is such a great blog post! I’m planning my Denver trip and this offers so many ideas to do, thank you for sharing!

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15 Unforgettable Colorado Winter Vacations

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Let’s be honest: winter in the States can change from year to year, but when it comes to Colorado, there’s one thing you can always count on when it comes to winter – snow! And lots of it.

If you’re out searching for the perfect powder to sink your shoes into this snowy season (or next!), Colorado is the perfect winter vacation!

Snow-covered peaks, crisp mountain air, blankets of fresh snow, and glistening snowfall transform Colorado into a winter wonderland. Winter in the mountains is truly magical, and this collection of charming towns outside of the city is perfect for your next Colorado winter vacation!

Pack your coats and snow boots and set out to the stunning state of Colorado for a winter vacation unlike anywhere else in the US! Wander the wilderness this winter on your winter vacation in Colorado!

🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver !

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Colorado Winter Vacations

Located off of the iconic I-70 interstate is the lively town of Leadville, Colorado. Once you exit, the snow-covered pines, snowy mountain peaks, and small mountain town slowly makes its way into the scene.

Leadville easily makes our list of Colorado winter vacations for families. This mountain town is home to Copper Mountain, an easy-going ski resort perfect for pacing the family on your winter ski adventures!

Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and snowboarding are also snowy staples to fill your schedule within Leadville!

The mountains are loaded with snow here during the winter, so be prepared for a snowy adventure!

Breckenridge

Welcome to the winter wonderland of Breck! This charming mountain town truly transforms once the snow begins to fall. Cozy coffee shops, busy boutiques, and frozen lakes line the snow-covered streets of Breckenridge, Colorado!

A Colorado winter vacation in Breckenridge can be family-focused, fun for the non-skiers, or a snowy adventure for the outdoor lovers.

With ski resorts nearby, bundles of trails in the backcountry, and cozy cottages to cuddle in, your dream winter vacation is only a click away!

Be sure to bring the camera; Breckenridge is candidly breathtaking when the clouds break away, and the blankets of snow begin to glisten.

If you want an easy hike here, don’t miss out on the Breckenridge Troll – it’s one of our favorites.

Are you busy planning your next Colorado winter vacation? Stop for a moment and consider Boulder. You really don’t have to travel too far into the Rockies to experience the magic of the mountains this winter. Boulder is right in Denver’s backyard!

With a constant mix of sunshine and snow, Boulder is the perfect Colorado winter vacation for visiting, hiking, and exploring the backcountry of Boulder.

On the more snowy days, watching the snowfall from a cozy coffee shop or busy brewery is the perfect way to stay warm.

If skiing is more your style, Eldora Ski Resort sits just outside of Boulder, so make the most of your winter vacation in Colorado by exploring the sights nearby!

Visiting Vail in the winter is like visiting the set of your favorite Hallmark movie. The snow-covered mountain peaks and valleys of Vail turn this charming mountain village into a winter wonderland, which is perfect for your next Colorado winter vacation!

Vail is home to the top-ranked and most visited ski resort in all of Colorado, so if you’re searching for some spots to shred the snow on your next winter vacation in Colorado, consider Vail.

Enjoy other snowy activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating, and shopping down below in the villages of Vail.

Venture out to Vail this winter and visit this winter wonderland in the heart of winter for a memorable winter vacation in Colorado!

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11 Fantastic Winter Activities In Denver That Don’t Involve Skiing

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Denver, Colorado, is a terrific place to visit any time of year, but especially so in the winter. True, many use Colorado’s capitol as a home base for their high-country skiing adventure, but if you don’t have your sights set on the slopes, no worries! There’s plenty to see, do, and experience here that doesn’t involve a lift ticket or expensive rentals.

Here are nearly a dozen of our favorite non-ski activities that are bound to delight any Denver visitor during the winter months.

1. Getting An Art Fix

The Denver Art Museum has an incredibly curated collection within its two modern buildings downtown. From photography to textiles, Indigenous art and the Impressionists, the works sweep genres and are wide-ranging as well as thought-provoking. The art museum is the perfect place to spend a chilly day and wander among gorgeous masterpieces from around the world and across time periods. 

Pro Tips: Don’t skip the fantastic museum store, filled with home objects, jewelry and other must-have pieces. Also, consider taking a lunch break here; a recent stop-off to The Ponti did not disappoint … but remember to make reservations!

2. Strolling 16th Street

Ready to get in those steps and spend the day at the 16th Street Mall. This pedestrian-only promenade is beautifully lit during the holiday season, and stays open and bustling all winter long! The mall stretches a mile downtown, and is lined by dozens of restaurants, cafes, bars, boutiques, and shops. You’re bound to find the perfect gift or souvenir along this stretch of downtown Denver!

As you stroll your way along the mall, keep an eye out for a tall belltower. This is the D&F Tower, a replica of the Campanile of St. Mark’s in Venice that was the highest building west of the Mississippi when it was built in 1909! Another fun fact: The mall was designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, and its red, white, and gray granite blocks are placed in a repeating pattern that, when spied from above, resembles the skin of a diamondback rattlesnake.

3. Larimer Square

Just off the 16th Street Mall, you’ll find another one of the city’s gems. We’re talking about Larimer Square. Here, high-end boutiques, terrific restaurants and luxe lounges are housed in historic buildings. It’s fun to browse and nosh for lunch … and at night, the whole area twinkles with string lights, making the entire square feel cozy and romantic. We loved Osteria Marco for its decadent house-made burrata and flatbreads, and Rioja for its Mediterranean tapas-style plates. Both spots had cozy indoor seating, but we opted for well-heated patio dining instead. 

Pro Tip: If you had to leave your beloved pup at home and want to make it up to her, head to Dog Savvy . They’ve got a great line of everything a pampered pooch could ever want, from studded high-fashion collars to sweaters, toys, and even a line of smoked all-natural beef bones. Our girl has spent hours on hers!

4. Get Sporty

Did you know Denver has six different professional sports teams? For those of you keeping score, that includes football, baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, and lacrosse. And lucky for winter visitors, the Colorado Avalanche (NHL), the Denver Nuggets (NBA), the Denver Broncos (NFL), and the Colorado Mammoth (NLL) all compete during the colder months. Taking in one of their games and cheering on the home team is a whole lot of fun, and a great way to really get to know the city. 

Pro Tip: You’ll want to book tickets for these teams as far in advance as possible to secure the best seats available.

5. Take A Craft Beer Crawl

There’s no doubt about it: Denver is a beer town with historic roots that run deep. Coors, one of our country’s oldest breweries, has been cranking out cold ones in nearby Golden since 1873. But Denver has also become an epicenter of the craft brewing scene . From large-scale to small batch, sours to stouts, and everything in between, you’re bound to find a style that hits the spot. Beer is such big business in Denver that you can book your very own custom beer/pub crawl, or check out some of our tried and true favorite breweries here . However you give it a go, sampling some of Denver’s best known brews in the very places they’re made is a great way to spend a winter’s day!

6. Stop To Admire The Orchids (Inside, Of Course!)

Most of us don’t think of visiting a botanical garden in the winter, but it’s a different story in Denver. The Denver Botanic Gardens are of course stunning in the summer, however, this winter’s Orchid Showcase is guaranteed to dazzle and delight flower fans. Hundreds of varieties of the exotic blooms will be on full display, of all colors, sizes, and patterns. We can’t think of a more romantic way to spend part of Valentine’s Day! 

Pro Tip: Entrance tickets must be purchased in advance, and are not available onsite.

7. Visit A Bibliophile’s Paradise

When it’s cold outside, sometimes all you want to do is curl up with a warm beverage and a good book. Denver’s got you covered with its iconic independent bookstore — Tattered Cover . First founded back in 1971, the store has long been a haven for booklovers, and has also served as a community meeting place. Today, there are several locations of this beloved bookstore, including one downtown at McGregor Square and another on Colfax. At Tattered Cover, you’ll find best-selling fan favorites and author-signed first editions, along with a good selection of gifts and games. No matter which location you choose to peruse, there are plenty of spots at Tattered Cover to sit down, sip a tea or latte, and browse through books to your heart’s content.

8. All Aboard At Union Station

Train enthusiasts aren’t the only people who will want to make time to visit Denver’s Union Station . The Beaux Arts building, constructed in 1914 out of carved granite and terra cotta, was completely renovated 100 years later in 2014. Take a stroll through its Grand Hall and you’ll understand why this iconic space is nicknamed the city’s living room. Of course, there are travelers heading off to catch their Amtrak train or one of the city’s RTD transportation options. But there are several great restaurants and shops here worth checking out as well. A star among them, Ultreia , with its Iberian tapas-style cuisine and selection of top-shelf gin and tonic cocktails.

9. High Tea At The Brown Palace Hotel

If you need to warm up and want to have a luxe nosh/sip session at one of the city’s best-loved spots, book a reservation for high tea at the Brown Palace. This historic hotel, built back in 1892 at the height of the state’s gold rush, is a gorgeous throwback in the heart of downtown that’s been meticulously maintained. The suites and shared spaces here are posh, as is the high tea experience. You’ll be served in the hotel’s fabulous main atrium, under an enormous crystal chandelier. There’s nothing better than fancy finger sandwiches, sweet, decadent pastries and perhaps a glass of champagne served in a gorgeous setting to chase those winter blues away. (It beats apres-ski every time in our book!) 

Pro Tip: The high tea service here books up quickly, especially during holidays, so make sure you reserve a spot in advance!

10. Hit The Dairy Block

Shop. Eat. Drink. Sounds like the perfect plan for a winter’s day in Denver, and you can accomplish all three in the city’s Dairy Block micro-district . Located near the ballpark in the LoDo neighborhood, this area once housed the — you guessed it — Windsor Dairy. The historic buildings that once churned out milk for the entire city have been repurposed for a micro-district including more than a dozen shops and boutiques, restaurants, bars, and the Milk Market , a food hall featuring 15 different eateries and places to craft a coffee or cocktail. Here you can have a few different tastes from some of Denver’s best food purveyors. Good luck choosing a favorite!

11. Enjoy The Great Outdoors

Yes, winter gets cold in Denver. But plan to bundle up and take advantage of the spectacular mountain views while you’re here. The city has extensive walking and biking trails, perfect for getting your steps in after a big meal or indulgent dessert. What’s more, the city’s park system is vast , including almost 20,000 acres of urban parks and mountain parklands, so you’ll never be far from green space. Whether it’s strolling Cheesman, the cemetery turned park with sweeping mountain vistas in an historic residential location, or biking through Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet, brave the chill and get out there. You won’t regret it.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind, they call Denver the Mile High City for a reason. The air here is likely thinner than what you’re used to, and is generally quite dry, especially in the winter months. Make sure you stay well-hydrated during your visit, and remember: You simply can’t over-apply your sunscreen, moisturizer, or lip balm!

For more Colorado activities, explore these activities:

• My 4 Favorite Colorado Small Towns Near National Parks And Monuments
• 10 Reasons To Visit The Largest Flattop Mountain In The World
• 7 Charming Small Towns To Visit In Southwestern Colorado

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

Denver   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its outdoor offerings, its city life isn't one to pass up. Denver is home to numerous must-sees from museums and galleries to restaurants and breweries. Spend a few hours in Meow Wolf to experience an interactive and

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Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit in the fall for Glow at the Gardens, a Halloween festival complete with stunning (and spooky) light displays and epic pumpkin art. – Leilani Osmundson

The Denver Botanic Gardens' 24 acres feature a whopping 50 gardens for visitors to explore. This expansive facility in downtown Denver's Cheesman Park treats travelers to a variety of different environments, from a traditional Japanese garden (complete with bonsai trees) to the South African Plaza blooming with exotic plants like asparagus fern and torch lilies. Meanwhile, art aficionados will also appreciate the gardens thanks to the numerous sculptures that grace the grounds; the facility also plays host to touring exhibits that have included works by such artists as Stephen Talasnik and Dale Chihuly.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an essential experience in Denver. There's no such thing as a bad seat, either; in fact, the best views are in the back, where you can see stunning sunset views over the red rocks and city skyline. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

With its excellent views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of hiking trails and cinnamon-hued sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks Park is a big draw for outdoors enthusiasts. Occupying 700-some acres, this impressive park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating geographic transition between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. If you only have a short amount of time here, stretch your legs along the Trading Post Trail; this nearly 1 ½-mile-long path weaves through the rust-colored buttes, making for some spectacular scenery. Before you head out, travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center, which features information on the park’s history and trails.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Denver Museum of Nature & Science

With exhibits featuring everything from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science inspires learning in the young and young at heart. This impressive facility houses artifacts pertaining to a variety of scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology and space science. Some of the more popular displays include the wildlife exhibit, which includes more than 90 habitat scenes containing information on animals from around the world, from Alaska to Australia. Meanwhile, the hands-on Space Odyssey area introduces travelers to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond. 

Recent visitors said the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a great place for families. A few reviewers who were not traveling with children said the museum may not be as engaging for adults as it is for kids because of the elementary nature of the displays. Many recent travelers were particularly impressed with the gems and minerals exhibit, which features artifacts like an 8-pound nugget of crystallized gold discovered in Breckenridge in 1887.

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U.S. News Insider Tip: Have breakfast at Snooze (a local chain), but get there early – there's almost always a line because the food is that good. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Denver's Union Station serves a dual purpose: it's a working public transit station and a highly-praised dining and shopping center. The station was a huge success when it first opened to the public in 1881, providing railroad service until the center of the building caught fire in 1894. The architecture from the 1914 redevelopment remains, and today, it's home to an Amtrak hub and a bus concourse. Located in the hip Lower Downtown neighborhood (aka LoDo), the station also houses multiple dining options and boutiques, as well as  The Crawford Hotel .

Meow Wolf Denver Meow Wolf Denver

U.S. News Insider Tip: Plan to spend several hours (at least two) here if you're hoping to see everything, and remember as you explore that there is an underlying storyline that connects all the exhibits and includes a mystery for visitors to unravel. – Leilani Osmundson

If you’re a fan of immersive art installations, you’ll probably enjoy Meow Wolf Denver, which is best described as a contemporary art museum, a haunted house, an amusement park and a film set all rolled into one 90,000-square-foot space. There are several Meow Wolf locations around the U.S., including Las Vegas and Santa Fe, New Mexico . Denver’s iteration is spread across four stories and features more than 70 distinctive installations that feature colorful lights, sounds and interactive displays. The largest permanent installation is the Convergence Station, a “multiverse transit station.”

Denver Zoo Denver Zoo

Modeled after a Kenyan nature preserve, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including tigers, black rhinos, kangaroos and orangutans. Sprawling across 80 acres of City Park, this impressive facility boasts a number of ways to view our furry, feathered and reptilian friends. Head to Predator Ridge, the recreated African savanna, to see hyenas, lions and African dogs roam, watch monkeys swing from tree branches at Primate Panorama or catch a glimpse of colorful critters like Panamanian golden frogs and green tree pythons at the Tropical Discovery center. You can also overload on cute during a visit to the nursery and take on a ride on the zoo's train and carousel.

While you're here, many travelers highly recommend timing your visit around feeding times, during which staff offers educational lectures about the zoo's residents. Keep in mind that this is a large facility; you'll want to budget plenty of time to see all the animals.

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Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pay attention if you're in the flash flood simulation room – you might get wet! – Leilani Osmundson

Visit the AZA-accredited Downtown Aquarium to see more than 500 species of animals across a variety of ecosystems both underwater and on land (including tigers). In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also boasts a Stingray Reef touch tank, a 4D theater, scuba and snorkel experiences, a shark cage experience, and in-person and virtual animal encounters. Kids can participate in a plethora of activities from a fun overnight stay to a five-day summer camp. Day programs for children include "Marine Biologist for a Day," which includes encounters with exotic species from the deep sea, as well as "Zoologist for a Day," where kids can learn how to handle and train animals that live outside the ocean.

Denver Art Museum Denver Art Museum

With galleries showcasing more than 70,000 works by famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Winslow Homer, the Denver Art Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art between Chicago and the West Coast. Spread across two buildings, the museum's holdings range from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary displays with such mediums as painting  and sculpture represented. One of the highlights of a visit to the Denver Art Museum is its extensive assembly of western American art, which includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper related to the West going back two centuries.

Past visitors raved about the Denver Art Museum, praising its diverse and varied collections, especially its collection of western American art, and the museum's ability to appeal to kids through interactive activities. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that the museum is a popular stop on many of the best Denver tours .

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U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit Skyline Park (located at 15th and Arapahoe streets) in the summer for draft beers at Skyline Beer Garden and the winter for outdoor ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. – Leilani Osmundson

Walk along this mile-long pedestrian mall for restaurants, shops, entertainment and more. Described as "the spine that connects all of downtown," the mall starts with Union Station on the north end and the Colorado State Capitol on the south end, with attractions like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Larimer Square and the Denver Pavilions – a shopping and dining complex with multiple movie theaters and pop-up events – along the way. If you've worked up an appetite walking around, you won't go hungry: There are more than 40 outdoor cafes throughout the mall, as well as plenty of casual, upscale and international eateries.

Coors Field Coors Field

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a seat in row 20 – the only purple row in the stadium – and you'll be sitting exactly one mile above sea level! –  Leilani Osmundson

Named for Denver's famed beer, Coors Field in Denver's LoDo district is home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies. The stadium occupies a whopping 76 acres and has the capacity for more than 50,000 fans. Of course, the main reason to come to Coors Field is to catch a game, but there's more to this stadium than a diamond. Whether you're traveling with children or alone, be sure to spend some time at the Interactive Area, where you can test your skills in the video batting cages and the Speed Pitch area. And if you've left the kids at home, take the opportunity to sample some of Denver's local brews on the Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot platform with fantastic views of the field and downtown Denver. If the weather isn't cooperating, pay a visit to the on-site SandLot brewery instead.

Washington Park Washington Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's not the easiest to find parking in Denver, but don't worry -- Wash Park has plenty of street parking, and it's easy to find a spot even during events. –  Leilani Osmundson

Located south of central Denver, Washington Park is consistently praised by Denverites and visitors alike for its ample facilities and enjoyable atmosphere. Occupying 155 acres, this immense park boasts miles of jogging paths, two massive lakes and two formal gardens, one of which is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon gardens. Wash Park, as it’s called by locals, is a popular weekend hangout spot thanks to the variety of things to do here. You can spend your time simply relaxing on the grass, or you can take advantage of the park's 10 tennis courts, boat rentals and recreation center, which houses a pool and offers scheduled fitness classes and swim lessons.

Larimer Square Larimer Square free

In 1858, a group of settlers struck gold at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Their discovery soon spread back to the East Coast, prompting people to pick up and move west. The site of the original pioneer camp (known back then as Auraria) soon grew into the charming area now known as Larimer Square. Although the city has since expanded, this historic neighborhood remains the heart and soul of the Mile High City, and according to some, it's the place to start your Denver experience thanks to its variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It's also a featured stop on many of the best Denver tours . 

Before venturing to Larimer Square, you may want to pay a visit to the Larimer Square  website . Here, you'll find a listing of all the local businesses and upcoming events, not to mention maps that can help orient where specific dining, shopping and entertainment options are.

Empower Field at Mile High Empower Field at Mile High

Football fans won't want to pass up the chance to spend some time on the Denver Broncos' home turf. Empower Field at Mile High can hold more than 76,000 NFL fans and is notable for its elevation, which sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That, combined with the view of the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east, makes it a unique venue to visit.

If you can swing it, try to catch a home game. Ticket prices vary by game and availability, and you'll want to purchase your seats well in advance to ensure availability. If you can't make it to a game, you can tag along on a guided tour of the stadium. Led by employees from the on-site Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum (one of the stops on the tour), these 75- to 90-minute tours take participants to the visiting teams' locker rooms, the end zone as well as into the network television production compound and the TV and radio broadcast facilities. Recent visitors described the tour experience as incredible thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

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Molly Brown House Museum Molly Brown House Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Though you can explore the museum on your own, a guided tour is vastly more educational. Register for a late morning tour and then walk to The Corner Beet after for tasty juices and brunch options. – Leilani Osmundson

Nestled among the contemporary architecture of the Capitol Hill district is the Molly Brown House Museum, an eccentric example of Victorian life and design that no history buff should miss. Once the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown (Kathy Bates' character in the film, "Titanic,"), this museum offers a glimpse into Denver's history and the life of one of its most fascinating residents. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about Brown's experience aboard the Titanic, as well as her role in the women's suffrage movement and her endeavors in Colorado's mining industry.

Elitch Gardens Elitch Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the park in winter for its Luminova Holidays event and don't forget to bring your camera; there are plenty of beautiful holiday light displays for photo opportunities, and some rides are open as well. – Leilani Osmundson

Open first as actual gardens as well as a zoological park in 1890, the long-running Elitch Gardens now boasts a theme park, a water park, entertainment and more. At the theme park, fly 17 stories above Denver on the Star Flyer swing ride, or dive and spin at 50 mph speeds on the Mind Eraser coaster. If thrills aren't your thing, you'll find plenty of more relaxing rides and activities in both the theme and water park, such as the Commotion Ocean wave pool and Castaway Creek lazy river.

United States Mint United States Mint free

Even if you hate the sound of excess change rattling around your pockets, you'll find a tour of the Denver branch of the United States Mint to be an interesting way to spend an hour or so. Having opened in 1863, its purpose was to transform the Gold Rush's findings into coinage. Today, the U.S. Mint in Denver can produce up to 50 million coins a day.

A free guided tour of the U.S. Mint in Denver will allow you the opportunity to learn more about each stage of coin production, from the design and sculpting of each piece to the cutting of each type of coin. Some recent visitors marveled at the coin-making machines, but say that not all travelers will likely find it enthralling.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Housed in a hangar on the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, this museum has more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space that explores the history of the base's role in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War. A variety of iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts and military uniforms are on display. The collection includes bombers from World War II, reconnaissance aircraft and commercial planes. One of the most iconic symbols of the Vietnam War – the Bell UH-1M Iroquois “Huey” – is among the displays. 

Past visitors enjoyed seeing the variety of aircraft and especially the replicas of “Star Wars” spacecraft. About 20 miles south of the museum is its sister location, the Exploration of Flight, which offers visitors a more immersive experience. They include a pilot simulator and actual flights in vintage and modern aircraft. The 15-acre site is located at Centennial Field, about 20 miles south of downtown Denver.

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10 Things to do in Denver during Winter

Denver, Colorado is a fun city to visit anytime during the year, but I had the opportunity to make my way to the Mile High city during winter. From Christmas markets to snow-filled hikes, there are so many great things to do in Denver during winter !

During late November 2019, I was invited by my friend Kristy of Ventre’s Adventures to do a road trip throughout some of the most beautiful areas in Colorado. Kristy, Hannah of Hannah Liz Weaver and myself started and ended in Denver and then made our way to Alamosa , Cañon City , Colorado Springs and Estes Park .

Some fun facts about Colorado’s capital is that Denver is actually not in the Rocky Mountains , it’s in the Great Plains .

Denver, Colorado has 300 days of sunshine a year. It is one of the most active cities in America (along with San Diego ) and half of the people on my flight to Colorado walked on with a yoga mat. In addition, Denver is also one of the eco-friendliest cities in the country!

In this article, discover the top things to do in Denver, Colorado during the winter months.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. During my time in Denver, Colorado, Hotel Teatro hosted me for two nights.

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Traveling to Denver in Winter and Getting around Colorado:

Getting around the city of Denver could easily be done by walking or using a ride sharing app. It is easy to drive in Denver as compared to bigger cities like New York, but it could be difficult to find parking.

If you are planning on doing a road trip through the state or even looking to get out of the city in general (which you should if you visit Colorado), I highly recommend renting a car ; especially an SUV with 4-wheel drive.

( Click here  if you are planning to road trip around the  United States  and want to rent an RV.)

We had a great Jeep Wrangler that got us through some pretty scary escapades. During our first evening in Denver, we ended up getting into a 50-car pile-up on an overpass that led onto Route 25. ( Click here to learn more, plus you could even see our Wrangler in the pile-up.)

Overall, we were extremely fortunate that our Jeep was the ONLY vehicle that didn’t get hit, even though we were stuck there for a couple hours. I will admit that it was pretty scary because so many vehicles were totaled, people were rushed to the hospital and a car even caught on fire.

The Denver police and fire departments did a great job making sure everyone was safe, but it was nerve wracking to think that this could happen to anyone during the winter. That is why I highly recommend renting an SUV or truck during your time in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Denver in the Winter:

­­­­One of my top experiences during my time in Denver, Colorado was staying at Hotel Teatro , located in the LoDo area of the city.

I was impressed and loved how spacious, clean and beautiful my Deluxe Corner King Room was. I had views of the city and nearby Rocky Mountains. Plus, I received the best night’s rest during my entire trip in their cozy Simmons Beautyrest Black™ mattress (of course after watching Hallmark Christmas movies).

The building that Hotel Teatro is located in goes back to 1863 when Denver’s Governor Evans built a brick cottage for his family in the downtown area.

The Evans family continued their quest to build up Denver in the years following that. In 1911, two architects set out to design an 8-story office tower for the Denver Tramway Company . The design combined modern construction and a traditional Renaissance Revival-style architecture of glazed red brick and white terra cotta.

The first-floor lobby led to the offices of the Treasurer and Train Master, while physicians and a legal department occupied the second floor. The eighth floor was inhabited by the president, whose boardroom was lined with oak and marble.

The Denver Tramway trolleys were in service until 1950 and were later used by the University of Colorado at Denver . The Tramway Building was purchased by the Tramway Hotel, LLC in 1994 and in 1999 it became the 110-room Hotel Teatro .

Celebrating its 20 th anniversary in 2019, Hotel Teatro was voted the No. 3 Best Hotel in Colorado in  Conde Nast Traveler’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards .

Hotel Teatro – Denver’s original boutique hotel , is located in a modern Renaissance Revival building and it provides its guests with a memorable experience in the Mile High City.

Inside of my Deluxe Corner King Room was a king-sized bed, pull-out couch, coffee table with two chairs, desk, 50” LCD television, Keurig in-room coffee maker, safe, plush terry robes and more.

In addition to the Deluxe Corner King Room, Hotel Teatro also has a Superior Queen Room, Superior King Room, Superior Queen Room with a Balcony, Deluxe Two Queen Room, Petite Queen Room, Petite King Room, Petite Manhattan Room, Junior Suite and the Chancellor’s Suite.

Another reason why I loved staying at Hotel Teatro was that it was located in a prime spot.

It is easily walkable to city hotspots such as the Denver Center for Performing Arts , the Colorado Convention Center , Union Station , Larimer Square and professional sports and entertainment venues such as Coors Field (where the Colorado Rockies play) as well as the Pepsi Center (where the Denver Nuggets play).

You also do not need to leave the hotel to have a wonderful experience in the Mile High City! Visiting this lovely spot is one of the best things to do in Denver during winter.

Hotel Teatro has a lovely restaurant called The Nickel , which offers exquisite dining and there is also a wonderful bar too called The Barrel Bar . The reason why Hotel Teatro ’s restaurant is called The Nickel is because in the early 1900s, people in Denver would take the streetcars for just a nickel per ride.

The restaurant offers a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients, house barrel-aged spirits, a coffee roasting program and the original vault that once collected the nickel fare from streetcar passengers.

In 2019, The Nickel was named Best Hotel Restaurant in Colorado . After a beautiful day in the mountains, it was nice to come back to Hotel Teatro and grab a drink at The Nickel ! (Plus, it was beautifully decorated for Christmas.)

In addition to The Nickel , Hotel Teatro also has The Study , which is a warm and cozy gathering space that hosts breakfasts on Monday to Friday from 6:30am to 11:00am.

It is a beautiful space with stunning decorations, a fireplace, comfortable couches and chairs, plus more. I enjoyed breakfast in The Study on my last morning in Denver and it was the icing on top of the cake with the snow softly falling outside.

Other great amenities that Hotel Teatro offers is complimentary WiFi throughout the entire property; same day laundry and dry cleaning services on Monday through Saturday; it is pet friendly; offers a 24-hour fitness center for those looking to work out on their trip; cruiser bicycles that you can ride around Denver on a first come, first serve basis; valet car service; courtesy transportation service within a 2.5-mile radius (this is super convenient when you want to go out at night or even in the cold); 24-hour in-room dining service; in-room spa and massage services and EVBox Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.  

Overall, I had a wonderful stay at Hotel Teatro and recommend it as the leading boutique hotel in Denver, Colorado ! It is extra special staying here during a Denver winter.

Fun Things to do in Denver During Winter:

10 Things to do in Denver, Colorado:

Whether you are traveling to Denver in November, December, January or February, here are the top 10 things to do in Denver during winter. Not only is this city close to a lot of great National Parks and hiking trails, it also boasts incredible eateries, landmarks and museums.

Visit Union Station during a Denver Winter:

The first place we visited when we got to Denver was the historic Union Station . Not only is Union Station Denver’s primary train station, it is also known as Denver’s “Living Room” for dining, drinking and shopping.

When you visit Denver, Colorado in December, you can admire a beautiful Christmas tree with festive decorations surrounding the Great Hall.

This wonderful space is perfect if you are looking to grab a coffee and catch up with a friend, get work done and relax. This station also pays homage to a pioneer spirit while embracing modernity.

During our time at Union Station , we grabbed breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery . I had a breakfast burrito and enjoyed a candy cane boozy hot chocolate on the side. Overall, Snooze is a chain restaurant that is based in Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas, North Carolina, Georgia and Missouri.

Stroll through Larimer Square during Winter in Denver:

You can’t visit Denver and not stroll through the city’s oldest and dreamiest street – Larimer Square . Located a few blocks from Hotel Teatro is the lit-up block that consists of independent shops, high-end restaurants, cozy bars as well as wellness and beauty services.

Not only is Larimer Square lit up during the holidays, it also has its stringed lights hanging all year round. I visited Larimer Square both during the day and also at night and it was beautiful. This spot is extra special during a Denver, Colorado winter .

Enjoy Local Food and Drinks in Denver:

There is no surprise that I love exploring the foodie scene when I travel. I also like going out for drinks at trendy bars where I could enjoy the ambiance as well.

Below are a list of places I ate and drank at during my time in Denver:

The Kitchen American Bistro : Located right off of Larimer Square in LoDo is The Kitchen , a locally sourced restaurant that provides sustainable meals for guests.

Kristy, Hannah and I came here for some wine during our first day walking around Denver. It was a trendy and cozy spot that was decorated beautifully for Christmas. It’s one of the best places to go in Denver in December .

Beatrice and Woodsley : If you are looking for a Tulum vibe in Denver, Beatrice and Woodsley is the place to go near Washington Park !

We had a tapas dinner at this dreamy spot on our first night and I will have to admit that the drinks are better than the food, but I loved the vibe!

During our time at Beatrice and Woodsley , I enjoyed a glass of wine with gnocchi and fried escargot.

Linger : For those who love Asian food, I recommend going to Linger when you are in Denver! It was one of the top restaurants we visited during our time in Colorado!

Located in an old mortuary in the Highland neighborhood, Linger is a chic lounge that also has a rooftop. During our time here, I enjoyed wine with pad Thai and a Korean fried chicken bao bun. It was delicious!

Little Man Ice Cream : Also located in the Highland neighborhood of Denver is Little Man Ice Cream .

Now, I knew about this ice cream shop way before I came to Denver, thanks to Instagram , so I was excited that we showed up there since it was near Linger .

Inspired by vintage Coney Island hot dog-shaped stands, Little Man Ice Cream is conducted within a 28-foot tall, 14,000 lb. ice cream can. Here, you could enjoy numerous flavors of homemade ice cream, plus more!

In addition, during Denver’s winter, Little Man Ice Cream also has a mini Christmas tree stand right next to it. I loved enjoying my hot chocolate-flavored cone with all of the pretty trees surrounding me.

Avanti Food and Beverage : One of the best places to have fun in Denver is Avanti , also located in Highland.

With two large bars, a lounge and dining area as well as a rooftop deck, Avanti offers something for everyone. There is even a Christmas pop-up bar located at Avanti as well! Visiting this location is one of the most fun things to do in Denver, Colorado in December .

During our time here, we just grabbed a beer and enjoyed the rooftop. (Denver is known for great craft beer.) Even though it was colder outside, there were heated lamps surrounding us.

In addition to craft beer, you could also grab French-inspired street food, pizza, Asian food, poke, Venezuelan cuisine, Mexican food, rotisserie and more at Avanti .

Rioja : The BEST restaurant we visited during our time in Denver was Rioja – an award-winning Mediterranean restaurant located on Larimer Street.

We visited Rioja on our last night, which just so happened to be during a snowstorm. It was a short walk from Hotel Teatro , which was super convenient.

From the moment we entered Rioja , we knew we would be in for a great experience! The vibe of Rioja was comforting and swanky, the staff were super energetic and friendly and the food was amazing.

We both got wine and I enjoyed squid ink tagliatelle pasta with clams and sausage in a white wine sauce. It was incredible! After we were done with dinner, they gave us sugar coated mint leaves.

(Denver is also known for its breweries. Even though I didn’t get to visit one during my time in Denver during November 2019, I plan to check out one when I return. Click here to book a brewery walking tour.)

Walk Around the Beauty at the Denver Botanical Gardens :

Whenever I visit a new U.S. city, I always enjoy visiting the botanical gardens . Every city does a wonderful plant display and I never walk away disappointed.

The Denver Botanical Gardens offer living, natural history, library and art collections to admire. During the holiday season, there are also beautiful Christmas light displays as well! It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Denver in winter .

Get into the Holiday Spirit at the Christmas Markets and Ice-Skating Rink:

One thing I did not expect to see in Denver was a German Christkindlmarket . Now, it may not be like the Christmas markets in Europe , but it is one of the best things to do in Denver in December .

This annual Christkindlmarkt brings German holiday traditions to Denver and it allows locals and visitors to enjoy glühwein (mulled wine), Bavarian-style biers and food, European coffee or hot chocolate. There are charming wooden huts with Christmas lights that sell artisan gifts, holiday treats and even CBD. (When in Colorado right?)

In addition to the Christmas markets, Denver also has a downtown ice-skating rink at Skyline Park . It is one of the best Denver winter activities !

Admire the Talent at Denver Art Museum :

If you are someone who appreciates art and enjoys going to museums, then you have to visit the Denver Art Museum , which is located in the Civic Center . For those wondering what to do in Denver in winter on a rainy day, museums are the way to go!

Known as one of the largest art museums out west , you could walk through the Georgia O’Keefe exhibit, the Asian Art Galleries, Gio Ponti exhibit and Indigenous galleries to name a few.

Stroll through Denver’s Dairy Block

Another one of the best things to do in Denver during winter is to stroll around the new and trendy Dairy Block ! This fun urban complex is the best place to go Christmas shopping during a trip to Denver, Colorado in December or November.

Not only does Denver’s Dairy Block offer upscale boutiques, swanky restaurants and bars like For[a]ged , which is a sushi restaurant, and Run for the Roses , which is a speakeasy, there are also plenty of “Instagrammable” spots and cool street art to admire in this area of Colorado’s capital city!

Watch a Denver Ball Game:

Just like many other U.S. cities, Denver also has renowned sports teams. Depending on when you visit during the winter, you could catch the Denver Bronco s playing football at Sports Authority Field at Mile High ; the Colorado Rockies play baseball at Coors Field ; NBA ’s Denver Nuggets play basketball at the Pepsi Center and the Colorado Avalanche hockey team in the Magness Arena and many more!

See a Concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater :

One of the top things to do in Denver winter 2022 is visit the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater located a little outside of the heart of the city.

This open-air amphitheater is built into a rock structure where you could catch a concert, watch the stars, attend a fitness workshop, do yoga, bike and so much more! Seeing snow on the red rocks during Denver’s winter is extra special.

Do a Day Trip during Denver’s Winter:

There are unlimited day trips you could take from Denver during the winter. Below are some top recommendations:

• Rocky Mountain National Park/Estes Park
• Fort Collins
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway
• Blackhawk/Central City
• White River National Forest
• Colorado Springs/ Garden of the Gods
• Georgetown Loop Railroad
• Glenwood Springs/Hanging Lake Trail
• Bear Creek Canyon
• Golden/ Coors Brewery
• Winter Park
• Vail (Skiing)

Looking for other great winter destinations, check out the below articles:

Winter Ski Trip to Tamarack Resort in Idaho

Vancouver to Whistler Winter Trip

Lake Placid Winter Weekend Activities

Planning a memorable USA trip? Find more  USA travel tips here .

I hope you all enjoyed reading about my time in Denver, Colorado. If you have any questions about my time in the Mile High City, please email me at [email protected].

Basic Facts of the United States:

Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., CO State Capital: Denver, Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

Shop my Denver Look:

Click here  to shop my  Poshmark  closet!

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Denver looks so beautiful in the cold season! And Hotel Teatro looks super charming 🙂 Will definitely keep it in mind for when I finally travel out west!

Yes, you guys should definitely do a trip out west, especially since you and your husband are both very active! 🙂

What a fun trip with a fun group! I’ve been to Denver in the summer but haven’t been in the winter yet. It looks so magical with the blanket of white snow covering everything!

Yes, it was beautiful! I definitely want to go back in the summer now haha

Such a wonderful post, Taylor! Denver looks like such a picturesque winter destination and I love your excitement of staying in Hotel Teatro – I love hotels like this! I must visit! Praying for snow like this in the UK for Christmas1 Jaz

Thank you so much Jaz and I hope you guys get some snow soon 🙂

I was just in Denver! This is such a good guide to a great city.

Thank you so much Riley! 🙂

Great post. We love Denver and visit there as often as possible. I’ll have to try some of these places you mentioned!

Thank you Kiana and that is awesome you travel to Colorado often.

I love Denver! I only had one day to explore, but definitely will be back. And Little Man is the greatest!

PS gorgeous photos ♥️

Yes, Colorado is amazing in general and thank you so much! 🙂

The Christmas decoration in the city is amazing and I love the fact the city is so eco-friendly! Lovely photos Taylor 💕

Thank you Alina and yes, it’s also super active too, which is awesome. 🙂

Denver in winter time looks wonderful. We visited Denver in the Summer and did a trip tp Pikes Peak and went on towards Rocky Mountain National Park. I loved the area.

Colorado is beautiful all year long. I want to go back and go skiing. 🙂

This is such a great list! I live in Denver and you really touched on a ton of great places that I normally suggest to visitors. Also, I about died when you mentioned people boarding the plane with yoga mats! I originally moved here from Florida and was blown away at first by how normal it is for people for wear pieces of workout gear as a normal attire EVERYWHERE here. Mall; workout clothes, out to dinner; workout clothes, grocery shopping; workout clothes, park day; workout clothes. It’s so funny when you’re not used to it.

Thank you so much Courtney! It was a fun city and I’d love to go back and explore more in the surrounding area. Also yes, I find it awesome how athletic and active people are there. All cities should be like that. 🙂

How beautiful!! I’ve heard Colorado is such an incredible state, especially during winter!! Can’t wait to visit someday!

Yes, it is so stunning! You totally have to go. It’s a great state. 🙂

I’ve never actually been to Denver (YET) but love the idea of so many sunny, clear days there – even in the winter. This post about winter travel to Denver, CO is so informative and detailed. I’d definitely want to explore the capitol building – it looks beautiful.

It’s such a great city! I love anywhere that has a lot of sun. 🙂

What a great post! You really got around to see it all in Denver. I’ll have to check out the Teatro, it looks so charming!

Thank you Megan! Hotel Teatro was a really cool hotel. I definitely enjoyed staying there. 🙂

Awww, fun post on Denver in the winter! It is a fun city to visit. We used to live in Grand Junction and Breckenridge 🙂

Thank you Ashlee! That is awesome. I heard Breckenridge ski resort is a lot of fun. 🙂

Denver in the winter is the best! It could snow or be 50 and sunny! I love it! Washington Park is a favorite!

Yes, I love that! The sunshine is definitely a seller for me. 🙂

Some great ideas. I’ve only been to Denver in the summer months when it’s been hot so this looks like a totally different experience. What a great city, and I love the look of the Hotel Teatro

Thank you Emma! Hotel Teatro was definitely one of the highlights during my time in Denver. 🙂

We lived in Colorado for a few years and I love Denver! Love this list of things to do in the Mile High City. We’ve only visited Rocky Mountain NP in the summer, but I am sure it is amazing in the winter too.

It is a lot of fun and Rocky Mountain National Park really is gorgeous year round. I hope to revisit again soon. 🙂

I really like Denver, though I’ve never been in the winter. I’ll have to consider a Denver winter trip now, after seeing this blog. It looks quite magical, and OMG that pasta dish from Rioja looks amazinggggg.

Yes, Colorado in the winter is so fun! I really want to go back and do a ski trip at some point. 🙂 Also, that meal I had at Rioja was one of the best dishes I’ve had during my travels.

I love Denver! Been a handful of times but I don’t know that I’ve ever been in Winter, so this is a super cute intro into what to expect. 🙂

Yes, there are a lot of fun things to do. Colorado was very beautiful in general in the winter. 🙂

I need to get back to America as soon as it’s safe to do so. Denver looked stunning in winter, and I love your hiking outfit.

Yes, you totally have to. There is so much adventure here. 🙂

This is such a great guide! I’ve never really thought about visiting Denver but this made me want to go 😀

Thank you Charlotte and it was a lot of fun. 🙂

Denver is very cool.! I was there during the winter, the week before Christmas….passing through to Breckenridge. I did visit a couple of restaurants and the Denver Art Museum. Was very impressed with the city and would love to go back.

That sounds awesome! I heard Breckenridge is really cool too! 🙂

Nature always looks stunning in wintertime, but it surprises me when cities also do, and Denver definitely does. Lovely pictures!

Thank you Coni! It really was a nice time. 🙂

I love Denver, especially in the wintertime. I really need to go back and explore more of the areas. I really want to tour the capital and go to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Yes, you totally should. I also would love to go back to that area and actually explore Boulder too. I heard there are a lot of great breweries there. 🙂

What a complete and detailed guide to Denver! It looks like an enjoyable spot to explore!

Thank you Lyne! I had a great time when I visited in 2019. 🙂

Thank you for this amazing piece on things to do in Denver during winter; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.

Thank you so much!

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Even 2-year-olds get their own tools at The Craftsman & Apprentice.

Sure, Colorado’s great for ski weekends, but what do you do during those long wintry days when you’re not on the slopes? Here’s a round-up of 50+ things to do with kids in Denver in winter when you’re both bouncing off the walls. 

January leaves everyone a little stir-crazy in our house. No more holiday excitement and we’ve all spent far more time inside than is good for us. So often it’s just much easier to stay cozy at home on a cold, blustery day. To combat this inevitable inertia, I’ve compiled a list of more than 50 things to do with Denver kids during these wintry days. Now whenever the question comes up, “What should we do today?” we have a checklist to reference, which gets all of us more excited about getting out.

I’ve included the usual suspects, of course, but I was also excited to discover new places to check out — a good reminder that, if you look a little deeper, there’s always something new to explore and enjoy in our city.

(Please note this list is far from exhaustive. Also, I’ve only included classes that offer a drop-in option or 1-day option. This information is up-to-date as of publication date, but please contact the business to confirm.)

Museums and Culture:

Joy Park, Children’s Museum of Denver

• Play on a firetruck, shop in the market, build a fort, or ride a zipline at Denver Children’s Museum (2121 Children’s Museum Drive, Denver). The outdoor Joy Park is a fantastic energy burner on a balmier winter day.  (Tip: First Tuesday of the month is free.)
• Dig in the sandbox, play banker, or steer a pirate ship at WOW! Children’s Museum (110 N. Harrison Avenue, Lafayette).
• Splash with water, dig for dinosaur bones, or construct buildings at Denver Museum of Nature & Science Discovery Zone (2001 Colorado Boulevard, Denver). (Tip: Visit the website for monthly free days.)
• Craft and listen to stories at Denver Firefighters Museum’s (1326 Tremont Place, Denver) monthly Tales for Tots. (Tip: This museum is much smaller than the others. We found an hour was about enough time to explore.)
• Loan your kiddo a digital camera to capture the butterflies and other insects at Butterfly Pavilion (6252 W. 104th Avenue, Westminster).
• Check out a First Light Family Space, Gallery Games or drop in the interactive art studio to explore art in a kid-friendly manner at the Denver Art Museum (100 W. 14th Avenue, Denver) or hang out in new family space. ( Tip: Kids are free all the time and residents are free the first Saturday of the month.)
• Create art at Denver Art Museum’s drop-in programs for kids , Art Emergency, Create Play Date, Create-N-Takes and Art Detectives.
• Explore aerodynamics principles at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum Exploration Station (7711 East Academy Boulevard, Denver).
• Bring your vehicle-obsessed little to the Forney Museum of Transportation (4303 Brighton Blvd., Denver).
• Visit our animal friends at the Denver Zoo (2300 Steele Street, Denver). (Tip: See Denver Zoo website for free days.)
• Feed the stingrays at the Downtown Aquarium (700 Water Street, Denver).
• Enjoy train stories and crafts at Colorado Railroad Museum (17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden) for ages 4-6 years every third Tuesday (10-11am). (Tip: See the website for monthly free days.)

Indoor Activities:

Drop-in art classes for kids at The Wonder Company

• Drop in for sensory play and art-making classes at The Wonder Company (relocated to 6101 W. 38th Ave, Wheat Ridge) or sign up for a class or school day off at Art Garage (6100 E. 23rd Avenue).
• Learn to hammer and create wood crafts with Tinker Drop-In ($15) or Preschool Playdates ($12)   The Craftsman and Apprentice (1345 East 22nd Avenue, Denver) for kids as young as 18 months.
• Enjoy a puppet show at The Denver Puppet Theater (3156 W. 58th Avenue, Denver).
• Listen up for story time at Tattered Cover Book Store (2526 E. Colfax Avenue, Denver or 1628 16th Street, Denver), BookBar (4280 Tennyson Street, Denver), Second Star to the Right (1545 S. Pearl, Denver), or the Denver Public Library ( various locations ).
• Pop into the Central Denver Public Library also has play areas with games, toys and large building blocks.
• Check out a new-to-you toy for free at the Denver Toy Library at the Smiley branch (Berkeley: 4501 W. 46th Avenue, Denver) of the Denver Public Library.
• Take in lunch and a movie at Alamo Drafthouse (Sloan’s Lake: 4255 W. Colfax Avenue, Denver; Littleton: 7301 S. Santa Fe; Westminster: 8905 Westminster Blvd).
• Try out a new game together at Board Game Republic (Golden Triangle: 900 W. 1st Avenue, Denver).
• Drop in to Kids Wonder (7562 S University, Centennial) an indoor play center that’s focused on the importance of intentional play with areas for pretend, physical play and more.

Energy Busters:

Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley

• Ski in the city at Denver’s Ruby Hill Rail Yard  (intersection of Platte River Drive and Jewell Avenue near downtown), just opened for the season. (Don’t be thrown by the Winter Park website–it really is located in Denver.)
• On our warmer, sunny winter days, hike the Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks Park .
• Tumble, balance and bounce at open gym drop-in days at Dardano’s School of Gymnastics (2250 Kearney Street, Denver, monthly open gym day), Great Play (760 S. Colorado Boulevard, Glendale), or Tigar Gymnastics (4860 Van Gordon Street, Wheat Ridge, Mon and Fri, 9-10:30am).
• Run and play at one of Denver’s more than 200 city parks. Or, if you’re looking for a fun new park to explore, check out Wheat Ridge’s Discovery Park or Northglenn’s E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park . Both offer extensive play areas to tucker out high-energy littles.
• Ski for free all season long if you’re 12 or under at Keystone Resort .
• Ice skate at downtown Denver’s Skyline Park Ice Rink . (16th and Arapahoe streets, Denver)
• Bounce high at Big Time Trampoline Fun Center (7330 W. 52nd Avenue, Arvada),  Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park (Greenwood Village, Lakewood and Littleton), or Jumpoline Family Fun Center (15380 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora) or Sky Zone Trampoline Park (7330 W 52nd Avenue, Arvada).
• Drop in for open swim at one of 14 indoor Denver Parks and Recreation swimming pools.
• Take a plunge at the indoor pools at your local rec center .
• Enjoy the tiny indoor amusement at Lollipop Park   (6901 S. Peoria, Centennial) complete with Ferris wheel, indoor train, teacup, bumper car and other rides all for the under-10 set.
• Climb, run and jump when it’s too cold outside at the indoor Clubhouse Adventure Playground at Apex Park and Recreation District (131500 W. 72nd, Arvada).
• Bang a drum, shake a tail feather or sing a song at a drop-in music class at Altitunes (5630 W. 29th Avenue, Denver).
• Zipline and climb at Jungle Quest ‘s indoor climbing center (8000 S. Lincoln Street, Littleton).
• Stretch and bend at kids’ drop-in yoga at  Mudra Yoga (1550 S. Pearl Street, Denver or 560 S. Holly, Denver), Kids Yoga Guide (560 S. Holly, Denver) or  The River Yoga (Baker: 1212 Delaware Street, Denver).
• Bowl old-school style at Crown Lanes Bowling Center & Sports Bar (2325 S Federal Blvd, Denver), Wheat Ridge Lanes (6595 W 38th Avenue, Wheat Ridge)
• Take your kids for a little local adventure with a ride on Denver’s light rail . (Tip: Park at one of the stations outside downtown, like Lakewood or Central Park, and ride the light rail to Union Station where you can grab some lunch, people watch, and hang out downtown for a bit.)

Looking for more kid-friendly Denver ideas? Check out 30+ Fun Family Activities in Denver (At a Deal) ,   11 Favorite Denver Kid-Friendly Restaurants That Parents Love Too and 10 Denver Fitness Solutions for Keeping Resolutions (Even with Kids in Tow) . 

Note: This post has been adapted from a post originally published on January 25, 2016 and updated with new content and links.

Heather Garbo

Denver mama, Berkeley hood resident, community builder, deliberate consumer, small business supporter, localist.

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There’s something for everyone in the city from  r omantic spots to  family-friendly fun . Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or longer vacation, find the perfect  Denver hotel.  

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The Mile High City has a wide array of kid-friendly activities. Check out:

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• Downtown Aquarium
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Travel | These Colorado towns are great in winter —…

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Travel | these colorado towns are great in winter — even if you don’t ski, getaway for a weekend of skijoring, sleigh rides, ice sculptures, hot springs soaks.

Not being a skier in Colorado is the equivalent of blurting “Voldemort” at Hogwarts. People look at you in shock. How dare you not ski?! The thing is, skiing and snowboarding can be pricey — season pass or lift tickets, skis or snowboard, boots, helmet, and layers of cold-weather gear. Plus, trying to get anywhere in the mountains along  I-70 is so … trying .

So what else is there to do, then?

Turns out, there’s a lot more to Colorado in the winter than shredding pow. You can snowshoe to a glorious, four-course dinner, spectate at an elite ice climbing competition, soak your muscles in a hot springs, or ride through a snowy wonderland by train. Read on for tips for finding winter fun off the slopes.

Billed as the highest city in the country, Leadville is surrounded by fourteeners and is home to snow almost year-round. You could try summiting a peak, but this is recommended only if you have experience climbing in winter. Fortunately, you don’t have to climb one to enjoy great mountain views. There are world-renowned trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Or take the 1-mile trail to the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse for a four-course dinner with a backdrop like no other.

Plan your visit around Crystal Carnival Weekend (March 5-6) and enjoy the skijoring — kind of like waterskiing, but instead of water there’s snow and instead of a boat there’s a horse. That’s right! A horse and rider gallop down the street towing a rope — and on the other end of that rope there’s a person on skis. They race through downtown in a series of jumps. It’s a hootin’-hollerin’ good time! And if someone in your group does want to ski, Ski Cooper is a short drive away.

This southwestern mountain town isn’t always easy to get to (keep your eye on storms), but once you’re there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s called the “Little Switzerland of Colorado.”

Ouray is a winter dreamscape nestled in a valley between high mountain cliffs. Every year, staff at Ouray Ice Park turn Uncompahgre Gorge into frigid walls of ice fit for the most talented climbers. You can try the sport yourself or simply watch others. Visit in January to watch the best ice climbers in the world compete.

There are plenty of other activities, if ice climbing isn’t your thing. You can soak in the hot springs, walk around Box Canyon Falls Park, drive along the Million Dollar Highway, or hike the Ouray Perimeter Trail. If someone in your group does want to ski, it’s not far to Telluride.

If you’re looking for a perfect après ski atmosphere without ever skiing, head to Cortez, between Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park. It’s a great area in winter since crowds are minimal and the views are endless.

Finding sustenance (in both liquid and solid form) is easy on Cortez’s main drag and in surrounding towns. Grab a pint at WildEdge Brewing Collective, Main Street Brewery, or J Fargo’s Micro Brewery and pair it with pub favorites (the beer nachos are incredible at WildEdge). Dolores River Brewery and Mancos Brewing Co. are good options if you venture further from town. The Farm Bistro just off Main Street has a new lounge that serves only Colorado beer, wine and spirits. Plus, it offers a true farm-to-table experience described as delivering “comfort food with style.” Yum.

Buena Vista

Opt to warm yourself instead of freeze on the slopes with a trip to Buena Vista. There’s a large concentration of hot springs in the area to soak the weariest muscles.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort offers pools of varying temperatures and even a 400-foot water slide. Or rent a private cabin at Antero Hot Springs or the Merrifield Homestead Cabins for more of a secluded retreat. Head south to find Joyful Journey Hot Springs or Salida Hot Springs and Aquatic Center to swim in one of the largest indoor hot springs pools in the country.

If something more exciting beckons, try Monarch Dog Sled rides. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be in the Iditarod? It’s not as easy as you might think to stay standing on a dog sled. Not to worry, though, if you don’t want to drive the dogs; you can stay seated up front. Make sure to bundle up and wear goggles since snow is bound to get kicked up into your face.

Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is known for the casinos lining its main street, but there’s more to this town than you might realize. Visit in February, and you’ll find the downtown corridor transform into a sea of ice as the town hosts the state’s largest ice carving competition. Artists from all over try their hand at creating masterpieces from hundreds of pounds of ice. There’s an ice maze for kids to outwit, an ice slide for those who are a kid at heart, and even an ice martini bar! It’s a lot of fun for the whole family.

You may have to fight ski traffic for a bit to get to Georgetown, but it’s worth it. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip from Denver. Every December, Georgetown’s Sixth Street transforms into a quintessential Christmas postcard. Stringed lights illuminated downtown and the smell of roasting chestnuts fills the air; you may think you’ve stepping onto the set of a holiday movie. Take a sleigh ride around town, listen to carolers, and stroll through vendors to pick out gifts for the whole family. After you’ve filled up on eggnog, head to the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Every year it features holiday excursions that traverse Santa’s Lighted Forest and might even include a visit from the jolly man himself! Every kid goes home from the train ride with a special treat and smiles for days.

You might not think of Creede as a winter destination, but there are few prettier scenes than this little town, nearly surrounded by mountain cliffs blanketed in snow.

Plan your visit to take in the annual Chocolate Festival, where local business owners showcase delectable chocolate specialties. January brings the annual TommyKnocker Pond Hockey Tournament. Whether you’re on the ice yourself or just spectating, there’s plenty of live entertainment and good food. If you’re “officially over winter” by February, head to Creede for its aptly-named Cabin Fever Daze. There’s live music, night skating, curling, bonfires, improv theater, and all-around good fun.

Pagosa Springs

The question is, what isn’t there to do in Pagosa Springs in winter? If you like horses, head over to Astraddle A Saddle or Buckaroo’s for horse-drawn sleigh rides. If you like dogs or going fast, try a dog sledding excursion through San Juan Dog Sleds or Mountain Paw Dog Sledding.

Maybe you prefer to breathe in the crisp, winter air on top of some wheels? Several outfitters can hook you up with fat bikes for some gnarly routes at Reservoir Hill Park or Cloman Park. Take a tube for a visit to Reservoir Hill Park and zip down the hill behind Healing Waters — it’s free. Then soak away any aches in one of the 24 pools at Pagosa Springs Hot Springs Resort.

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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Y ou could spend decades-as I have-exploring Colorado's stunning scenery and top attractions and still have more to see and do. No single trip can cover everything that makes the state a traveler's dream destination. AFAR's roundup of things to see and do in Colorado offered 16 tips to get you started, including driving the peak-to-peak scenic byway, visiting Denver Art Museum, and soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs. However, if you want to hit the highlights, here are your main targets, divided up by season.

The best places to visit in Colorado in fall

Colorado is spectacular year-round, but autumn's colors and temperatures make it a particularly magical time to visit.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Visiting the dunes typically means overnighting at the park's campground , because few accommodations exist near this remote spot some 230 miles south of Denver. But campers are rewarded with dusk and dawn's light shows on the sand dunes, which ripple beneath the sawtooth Sangre de Cristo mountains. Summers are scorching, but in fall, sand surfaces remain comfortable all day. Scramble across the dunes, or rent a sandboard to surf the slopes like waves.

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton is the quintessential Colorado getaway for those who can afford it ($1,400 per night is typical). Guests cozy into hand-built log cabins that combine historic patina with western art and worldly comforts like sustainably made beds and linens. Rates include food and drink that make every meal feel special-think roasted pork with charred leek grits followed by poached rhubarb panna cotta-but the steaming springs are this getaway's raison d'être. Views from the rustic yet luxe bathhouse showcase aspen groves that turn amber in autumn, and one guest cabin (Well House) includes its own spring-fed soaking tub.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Most of this park's 4.3 million annual visitors flock here in summer, so I go in September for fewer traffic backups on Trail Ridge Road (a must-do drive traversing treeless alpine tundra). Fall is also mating season for the park's elk herd, and the possibility of hearing bulls' distinctive bugles adds extra magic to any hike. I always glimpse elk along the Moraine Park Loop, a 5.5-mile circuit that can be shortened to preference.

Best places to visit in Colorado in winter

Snow envelopes much of the state in the winter months, turning urban areas into winter wonderlands and promising world-class outdoor activities.

Meow Wolf Convergence Station

In fall 2023, Denver's fun house of immersive art installations launched Sips (With a Z), a cocktail bar and lounge dedicated to providing "a sanctuary of chill amidst the hubbub of quantum travel." Mirrored walls reflect a mashup of classical sculpture and graffiti art, and vintage furniture provides myriad perches for pondering the installation's experiential art. The bar is only open to Meow Wolf Denver visitors and event guests. While the previous art triggered sight, sound, and touch, the new lounge also titillates our sense of taste.

Sure, it's far from major cities, but I wager that the only winter enclaves with mountain vistas that rival Telluride's are in the Alps. These jagged southwest Colorado slopes offer scenery so jawdropping, I always feel dazzled, regardless of the snow conditions. And several mountaintop eateries showcase the splendor. Perched at 11,966 feet, Alpino Vino ranks as the highest restaurant in North America and serves Italian food and wine specialties within a cozy stone and log cabin. More tableside panoramas (and an award-winning wine list) await at Allred's at 10,551 feet.

Silverthorne

Once little more than a refueling stop for motorists traveling Interstate 70, Exit 205 is now an appealing home base for three nearby Colorado ski resorts (Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Breckenridge) and a destination in its own right. Stay at Hotel Indigo , the chain's first mountain property housing an upscale tequila bar and indoor swimming pool. Go snowshoeing or Nordic skiing at Raven Golf Club (free to the public; rent gear at Gore Range Sports) and enjoy après at the Bluebird Market food hall , where weekends find live bands entertaining drinkers at the central bar.

Best places to visit in Colorado in spring

Visitor numbers drop during the spring, but Colorado still puts on a show as flowers bloom and the arts scene wows guests.

Casa Bonita

Coloradoans Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of the South Park animated TV series) spent $40 million to renovate this Denver icon of Mexican food and carnivalesque stunts. Summer 2023 kicked off its much-anticipated reopening. Diners (up to 2,100 of them, at capacity) still line up with trays for meals, now designed by James Beard–nominated chef Dana Rodriguez. Cliff diving continues in the waterfall-fed pool, and the multi-level dining room delivers more spectacle than ambiance.

Crowds taper but deals abound during this destination's shoulder season. April and May are when Aspen's celebrated restaurants often offer discounted menus and drink specials, and at these elevations (the Snowmass base village sits at 8,104 feet), snow blankets the slopes well beyond the resorts' mid-April closing date, making for prime ski conditions-and rowdy parties. At Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro , the springtime ritual includes uncorking staggering quantities of champagne on the summit-ringed outdoor deck.

Idyllic weather and blooming cactus make spring my favorite time to visit Colorado's canyon country, and Fruita is the best home base. From here, it's a 15-minute drive to the sculpted red rock sandstone spires of Colorado National Monument and 5 minutes to world-famous mountain bike trails. Fruita's walkable downtown includes the Hot Tomato , delivering Jersey-style pizza that's good as gospel. Live music often enlivens the pedestrian block, and for sips, there are wineries in Palisade, 30 minutes east.

Best places to visit in Colorado in summer

Colorado's hiking and biking trails come into their own during the warmer months while road-tripping offers an easy way to see much of the state-in an EV on many of the scenic byways .

Crested Butte

After 25 years in Colorado, I still gape at the beauty of Crested Butte , because in a state that's chockablock with pretty views, this town tops the list. Sheer peaks rise up beside the streets' grid, where colorful, mining-era Victorians line the sidewalks. No highway noise ruins the mountains' quiet, and only merry sounds emerge from main street bars and eateries. The surrounding trails wind through aspen groves and meadows that are deservedly famous for July's display of wildflowers.

Bachelor Gulch

Come summer, the Bachelor Gulch base area of Beaver Creek ski resort becomes the scene of a daily lawn and pool party that encapsulates what's splendid about Colorado. Views include aspen-covered mountainsides, and adventures on foot or bike follow trails leading into wildflower meadows. Play a round of cornhole on the lawn, then relocate to Wyld 's patio for plates showcasing Colorado-grown produce. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (renovated in 2022) to cool off in its outdoor pool and sip rosé from the surrounding loungers.

Fort Collins

Visit during Colorado State's summer break, and you won't have to elbow your way into this city's esteemed breweries. (Crooked Stave makes some of my favorite sours.) Nationally known New Belgium Brewing organizes the annual Tour de Fat each August, when a parade of 20,000 wildly costumed cyclists pedal the streets. I make the 100-year-old Armstrong Hotel my downtown home base and stroll from its classy-hip rooms to such downtown shops as Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar, which pours drink made from local homeowners' apple trees.