Things to do in Denver: Weekend Trips for First Timers

For a first-time trip to Denver, the must-do possibilities are endless. Known for its wide-range of outdoors adventures, culinary landscape and energetic downtown, Denver offers new experiences to discover for tourists and locals alike. Here are our top choices for things to do in Denver if you’re a first timer in the city:

Eating: Marcos‘ coal-fired Neopolitan pizza is as authentic as it gets. Named best pizza in Denver year after year, the Larimer St. pizzeria is certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, meeting strict requirements that ensure the tradition of Neapolitan pizza making is preserved. Start with coal-fired Lemoncello chicken wings or go straight for the classic Margherita pizza made with tomatoes from the San Marzano region of Italy.

Izakaya Den, a Japanese gastro pub, serves up global cuisine in their new S. Pearl St. location. Next door to its famous predecessor, Sushi Den, the elegant space and menu has been carefully designed to combine traditional Japanese elements with a modern, global twist. The restaurant offers international tapas-style dishes like Shrimp & Grits – grit-style quinoa served with sriracha butter and herb cream – as well as a full sushi menu.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Fort has been a Denver staple since its inception in 1963. Modeled after a famous Colorado fur trade fort from the 1800s, this adobe structure preserves the rich Colorado history through its Colorado cuisine. With staples such as buffalo, elk and quail, menu items are based on the food of pioneers, mountain men and native Indian tribes who have shaped Colorado’s history. Try their most popular dish, The Fort’s Game Plate, for a sample of each of their specialties.

Activities: There is no better way to see the sights of Denver than by Scooter. Rent a Vespa at ScooTours Denver, and choose from one of eight professionally led tours around the city. Check out Denver’s top tourist sights or art districts, even ride out to Red Rocks Amphitheater. For the more adventurous, take to the streets on your own after a short practice session in the parking lot. ScooTours covers the liability insurance and gas, so there is no excuse not to explore. (Note: All riders must be 18 or older.)

Opened in 1892, during the gold and sliver rush, the Brown Palace hotel is a Denver icon. The hotel’s rich history and elegance adds to the ambience as visitors sip on afternoon tea and indulge in scones and pastries to the tune of a pianist or harpist. Space is limited, so reservations are recommended. If tea isn’t your thing, head over to the Churchill room stocked with single-malt scotches, small-batch bourbons and over 60 cigars in the custom humidor.

Denver is a sporting town. No matter what the season, there is always a game sure to satisfy every sports fan. Catch a fly ball at Coors Field, watch the Broncos score a touchdown at Mile High, or cheer on the Avalanche and Nuggets at the Pepsi Center. Don’t forget Colorado’s Major League Lacrosse team, the Denver Outlaws, and Major League Soccer team, the Colorado Rapids.

Nightlife: Finding the Green Russell speakeasy is no easy task whether you are a first-timer or local. Located off Larimer Square, the door to this prohibition-style bar is located underground through Wednesday’s Pie shop. Listen to live jazz while mixologists fresh press juice for made-to-order drinks. Don’t forget a slice of pie to top off the night.

Denver’s live music scene is also hopping. The Fillmore Auditorium, one of Denver’s premier music venues, brings in big names such as Rise Against and Joss Stone, with capacity of over 3000. For a more intimate show, try the Ogden Theater just down Colfax Ave., or the historic Bluebird Theaterfor a great rock show. For a more refined experience, visit the glamorous Paramount Theater, which has maintained its original Art Deco design and hosts everything from rock concerts toWurlitzer organ performances.

Shopping: The Cherry Creek North neighborhood ranks as the region’s largest district of locally owned shops. The 400 business that comprise the mixed-use area range from boutique clothing, jewelry and home furnishing stores, to an array of upscale restaurants, spas and art galleries. Check the event calendar for a list of sidewalk sales and art walks throughout the year.

Located in the up and coming Highlands neighborhood, Highlands Square features over 90 boutiques, beauty and wellness centers, and an eclectic assortment of restaurants. Stop by Kismet or Goldyn Boutique (located in the neighboring area of Lower Highlands) for fun accessories, including their charm bar where you can make your own jewelry. And, be sure to attend the Annual Street Fair in June for live music, food and beer gardens and over 150 artisan vendors.

The Big Draw: Catch a concert, watch a film on a summer night, hike the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail or climb the 69 rows of benches for an exhilarating workout at 6,400 feet above sea level at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. The world famous music venue is the only naturally occurring acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world and has hosted the biggest artists in history on its stage. Be sure to stop and take in the breathtaking view of Denver from its perch high above the city.

The Denver Pedal Hopper is an active way to explore Denver’s many watering holes. Hop aboard the bar cycle and pedal along one of three routes through downtown Denver to a variety of bars, taverns and breweries with 16 of your closest, or newest, friends. Each two-hour tour typically stops at three venues where patrons enjoy Pedal Hopper specials. (Note: Pedal Hoppers must be 21 or older.)