Top 10 Best Places In Denver To Visit

In Denver, top attractions include the Historic Denver Union Station, showcasing its rich history and architecture. The Denver Botanic Gardens offer a delightful Orchid Showcase and Collection. Explore the fascinating Conservation Efforts at the Denver Zoo. Immerse yourself in Denver's cultural scene with the Tattered Cover Bookstore, Historic Brown Palace, and vibrant street art. The city's blend of art, culture, and nature makes it a must-visit for all. Discover more about the diverse attractions Denver has to offer beyond the top 10 listed.

Historic Denver Union Station

revitalized hub in denver

Historic Denver Union Station, with its iconic Clocktower, stands as a significant landmark in the city's history. Rebuilt in 1914 after a devastating fire, the station now serves as a bustling hub for public transit, dining, shopping, and accommodations.

Located in the vibrant Lower Downtown neighborhood, Denver Union Station offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

Overview

Nestled in Denver's vibrant Lower Downtown neighborhood, the iconic Union Station stands as a bustling urban landmark blending historical charm with modern amenities. Serving as a transit hub since 1881, it offers a glimpse into Denver's past while providing contemporary dining, shopping, and lodging options.

Known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Denver Union Station remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists to experience the city's rich heritage.

Historic Denver Union Station – Clocktower

Denver Union Station's Clocktower stands as a prominent fixture within the historic transportation hub, offering visitors panoramic views of the city and serving as a notable attraction for both locals and tourists.

The station houses the Crawford Hotel, boutiques, and award-winning restaurants.

It is known for its historical architecture and iconic Clocktower.

Denver Union Station serves as the main Amtrak hub, connecting travelers to various destinations.

Denver Union Station – Interior

historic train station renovation

Denver Union Station's interior is a captivating blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The iconic Clocktower stands as a testament to the station's historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

As guests explore the interior, they are treated to a unique mix of architectural beauty and contemporary convenience.

Overview

Stepping into the historic Denver Union Station's interior reveals a meticulously restored space that seamlessly blends modern amenities with timeless charm.

The station houses award-winning restaurants and boutiques.

Visitors can admire the grand architecture and design of the waiting rooms and main hall.

The luxury Crawford Hotel within offers a unique upscale accommodation experience.

Clocktower's Historical Significance

Nestled within the heart of the meticulously restored Denver Union Station's interior lies the Clocktower, a historic timepiece that has been a focal point of the station since its completion in 1914. Standing at 85 feet tall, the Clocktower boasts four 5-foot diameter clock faces. Visitors can partake in guided tours to explore its history, including the original Seth Thomas clock mechanism, and enjoy the chimes echoing throughout the station.

Height 85 feet
Clock Faces 4, 5 feet in diameter each
Guided Tours Available to explore history
Clock Mechanism Original Seth Thomas

Denver Union Station Clocktower View

timeless cityscape from above

The Denver Union Station Clocktower offers visitors unparalleled panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Climbing 126 steps to the observation deck provides a unique perspective of Denver's skyline.

The Clocktower, an 85-foot-tall landmark since 1916, boasts restored 5.5-foot diameter clock faces that add to the historical charm of the structure.

Overview

From the observation deck of the Denver Union Station Clocktower, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its majestic surroundings.

  • The Clocktower offers vistas of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains.
  • Climbing 126 steps leads to the observation deck.
  • This historic landmark provides a bird's eye view of Union Station's activity below.

Clocktower's Panoramic City Views

Perched atop the Denver Union Station Clocktower stands a vantage point that offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city skyline and majestic Rocky Mountains.

Visitors can take a guided tour to the top of the Clocktower, which stands at 393 feet tall and was built in 1910.

The observation deck provides stunning 360-degree views of downtown Denver, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of the city from above.

Denver Botanic Gardens Orchid Showcase

exquisite orchids at exhibition

The Denver Botanic Gardens Orchid Showcase presents a stunning array of orchids sourced globally. Visitors can witness diverse orchid species and hybrids in a vibrant and enchanting exhibition.

This showcase offers a unique opportunity to admire the beauty and variety of orchid plants, complemented by educational insights on orchid care.

Overview

What makes the Denver Botanic Gardens Orchid Showcase a must-visit destination for botanical enthusiasts and curious visitors alike?

The showcase features a diverse collection of orchids from around the world, providing a beautiful and educational experience.

Visitors can explore serene displays, highlighting the beauty and rarity of various orchid species.

This popular attraction offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the fascinating world of orchids.

  • Diverse collection of orchids
  • Beautiful and educational displays
  • Rare and exotic orchid varieties

Clocktower's Unique Historical Significance

Standing as a tribute to Denver's rich history, the Clocktower at the Denver Botanic Gardens showcases a distinctive blend of neoclassical and art deco architectural styles, enchanting visitors with its historical significance and stunning views.

This 75-foot-tall historic landmark, built in 1917, offers panoramic views of the gardens and surrounding areas. It serves as a focal point for events like the Orchid Showcase, allowing visitors to explore its unique charm.

Denver Botanic Gardens Orchid Collection

elegant orchids in denver

The Denver Botanic Gardens Orchid Collection is a sanctuary for over 1,000 orchid species and hybrids, showcasing a stunning array from various corners of the globe. This curated collection boasts rare and exotic specimens, highlighting the diverse colors, shapes, and sizes of orchids.

Visitors can partake in guided tours to gain insights into orchid conservation and cultivation practices, offering a serene and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and orchid aficionados.

Overview

Nestled within the Denver Botanic Gardens is the Orchid Collection, boasting an impressive array of over 1,000 orchid species. Visitors can explore themed gardens like the Orchid Showcase and the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory.

The collection includes rare and exotic orchids from around the world. Guided tours and educational programs are available to learn more about orchids and their care.

Orchid Collection's Captivating Blooms

Amidst the Denver Botanic Gardens lies a mesmerizing display of orchids, showcasing over 1,000 species and hybrids from around the globe. Visitors can explore themed displays featuring rare and exotic orchids.

The collection includes diverse varieties such as epiphytic, lithophytic, and terrestrial species. Guided tours and educational programs are available to learn about orchid care and conservation.

Peak bloom seasons vary, making it a year-round attraction.

Denver Art Museum Rooftop Experience

unique urban art space

The Denver Art Museum rooftop offers visitors stunning views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. Guests can wander through outdoor art installations and sculptures while enjoying the modern architecture of the rooftop.

Additionally, a café on the rooftop provides a serene space for relaxation and appreciation of the surrounding scenery.

Overview

What makes the Denver Art Museum Rooftop Experience a must-visit destination for art and cityscape enthusiasts alike?

The rooftop offers stunning views of Denver's skyline and the Rocky Mountains, along with outdoor art installations and sculptures. Visitors can relax at the rooftop café while enjoying refreshments.

It is a hotspot for photography enthusiasts seeking unique perspectives and backgrounds.

Artistic Rooftop Installation Display

Nestled atop the Denver Art Museum, the 'Artistic Rooftop Installation Display' known as 'The Light Show' offers visitors a mesmerizing blend of interactive light and sound elements against the backdrop of panoramic views of the city and the majestic Rocky Mountains.

This artistic installation provides a dynamic and immersive experience, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation at the Denver Art Museum rooftop.

Denver Zoo's Conservation Efforts

protecting wildlife through education

The Denver Zoo is renowned for its commitment to wildlife conservation. It has over 600 projects worldwide aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. Visitors can witness the zoo's dedication to conservation through its exhibits and educational programs promoting sustainable practices.

From gorillas to tigers and rhinos, the zoo's efforts highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity for future generations.

Overview

Amidst a backdrop of global conservation challenges, the Denver Zoo stands as a beacon of proactive involvement, engaging in over 600 projects dedicated to safeguarding endangered species and their habitats worldwide.

  • Protects endangered species like Amur tigers, black rhinos, and Sumatran orangutans.
  • Participates in breeding programs for threatened species.
  • Conducts habitat restoration, anti-poaching initiatives, and community education efforts.

Zoo's Animal Enrichment Programs

Denver Zoo's animal enrichment programs play a crucial role in enhancing the physical and mental well-being of the animals, with a focus on conservation efforts for endangered species. Activities such as puzzle feeders and behavioral training contribute to the animals' welfare.

Through collaborations with other institutions, Denver Zoo supports global conservation initiatives. Visitors can engage with the zoo's conservation programs to learn and participate in wildlife conservation.

Denver's Tattered Cover Bookstore

iconic denver bookstore treasure

Denver's Tattered Cover Bookstore stands as a beacon for book lovers, boasting a rich history since its establishment in 1971.

As one of the largest independent bookstores in the nation, it offers a vast array of books catering to diverse tastes.

From hosting author events to providing a cozy reading nook, the Tattered Cover Bookstore is a paradise for those who cherish the written word.

Overview

Nestled within the heart of the city, the Tattered Cover Bookstore stands as an enduring beacon for literary enthusiasts in Denver.

  • A historic independent bookstore since 1971
  • Offers diverse book genres
  • Hosts author events and book signings

Book Lovers' Paradise

Located in the heart of the city, the Tattered Cover Bookstore in Denver is an independent bookstore established in 1971. It offers a wide selection of books spanning various genres, hosts author events, and fosters a vibrant literary community.

With multiple locations in Denver, the historic LoDo store is a popular choice. Visitors can relax in cozy reading nooks and receive personalized recommendations from knowledgeable staff, ensuring a unique and enriching book shopping experience.

Denver's Historic Brown Palace

iconic hotel in denver

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is a Denver landmark since 1892. It boasts an iconic atrium featuring a stunning stained glass skylight and elegant Victorian architecture. This historic hotel has welcomed numerous notable guests, including celebrities, presidents, and royalty.

Visitors can enjoy luxurious accommodations, fine dining options, and guided tours to explore the hotel's rich history and architectural beauty.

Overview

With a history dating back to 1892, the Historic Brown Palace in Denver stands as proof of timeless luxury and elegance. Visitors can admire its sandstone exterior, ornate ironwork, and stained glass windows.

The hotel, a National Historic Landmark, has welcomed presidents, royalty, and celebrities throughout its continuous operation.

Elegant Afternoon Tea Spot

Nestled within the historic confines of Denver's iconic Brown Palace lies a refined destination known for its exquisite afternoon tea experience. Guests can savor premium teas and delectable pastries while basking in the impeccable service and historic setting.

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this popular and sophisticated afternoon tea spot in Denver, where the ambiance adds to the charm of the outing.

Denver's Vibrant Street Art

colorful murals in denver

Denver's vibrant street art scene is a mesmerizing reflection of the city's culture, history, and social fabric.

From the colorful murals dotting the RiNo Art District to the politically charged pieces found in neighborhoods like LoDo and Capitol Hill, Denver's street art showcases a diverse array of styles and messages.

Guided walking tours offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in these street art masterpieces and appreciate the dynamic urban landscape they create.

Overview

Exploring Denver's vibrant street art reveals a dynamic tapestry of creativity and cultural expression woven throughout the city.

  • Denver showcases a diverse range of murals and graffiti art.
  • The RiNo Art District stands out as a hub for colorful and unique street art.
  • Guided tours offer insight into the urban art scene, highlighting the city's creative culture.

Street Art Masterpieces Showcase

Amidst Denver's urban landscape, a plethora of street art masterpieces stand as compelling evidence to the city's vibrant artistic spirit. The RiNo Art District serves as a hub for Denver's street art scene, boasting vibrant murals and urban art installations. Local and international artists contribute diverse styles and themes to the city's street art culture. Guided tours offer insights into the techniques and stories behind these engaging murals.

Street Art Facts
Location Denver
Hotspot RiNo Art District
Features Murals, Urban Art
Contributors Local, International Artists
Tours Available Guided Tours