Conquering the Mile High City: Your 3-Day Denver Debauchery (Without Actually Getting Debauched... Probably)
Ah, Denver. The Mile High City. Land of craft brews, epic mountain views, and enough legal greenery to make your grandma raise an eyebrow (but secretly be intrigued). But you, intrepid traveler, only have 72 glorious hours to experience it all. Fear not, for I, your trusty guide (with a questionable sense of direction, but excellent taste in tacos), am here to craft the perfect Denver itinerary. Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to get wild...ish.
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| How Can I Spend 3 Days In Denver |
Day 1: Embrace Your Inner Flaneur (That's Just a Fancy Word for Window Shopping)
Morning: Start your day with a brunch that would make Ron Swanson weep. Hit up Denver Biscuit Co. for portions so huge they could feed a family of yetis, or Trompeau Bakery for pastries that are basically edible clouds. Carboload, my friend, carboload.
Afternoon: Time to explore the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian paradise lined with shops, street performers (hopefully juggling flaming chainsaws, but that might be wishful thinking), and the iconic Big Blue Bear. Snap a selfie with the furry fella (just don't climb him, tempting as it may be) and browse the stores for that perfect "I Conquered Denver" souvenir (spork with the mountains on it? Classic).
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Evening: Catch a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, or dive into the city's craft beer scene with a pub crawl through the RiNo (River North Art District). Sample local brews with names like "Yeti's Tears" and "Moose Drool" (don't be put off by the labels, they're probably delicious). Just remember, altitude makes you tipsy faster, so pace yourself, unless you want to reenact that scene from The Hangover... but in Denver.
Pro Tip: Download a rideshare app or grab a Denver RTD pass for easy navigation around the city. Those electric scooters look tempting, but trust me, you don't want to be that tourist who wipes out trying to impress a gaggle of geese.
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
Day 2: Channel Your Inner Mountain Goat (Minus the Actual Climbing)
Morning: Escape the city and head for the foothills. Lookout Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of Denver and beyond. Hike or bike (rentals are available) the scenic trails, or take the cog railway for a relaxing ride to the top. Just don't forget to pack your camera – those mountain vistas are Instagram gold.
Afternoon: Feeling adventurous? Take a drive on Mount Evans Scenic Byway and marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery. Stop by St. Mary's Glacier, a natural wonder that looks like a giant scoop of ice cream plopped onto the mountainside (resist the urge to lick it, it's probably not mint chocolate chip).
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
Evening: After a day of fresh mountain air, unwind with a delicious meal in Larimer Square, Denver's historic district. Pick a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating and people-watch while you refuel.
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Bonus: Catch a concert at the legendary Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Seeing a show at this iconic venue is an unforgettable Denver experience (just bundle up if it's chilly – mountain nights can get nippy).
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Day 3: Explore Denver's Quirky Side (Because Every City Needs a Little Weird)
Morning: Fuel up with a breakfast burrito the size of your head at The Denver Central Market. This bustling marketplace is a great place to grab a bite and soak up the local vibe.
Afternoon: Get your art fix at the Denver Art Museum. Home to an impressive collection of Native American art and other exhibits, it's a feast for the eyes. Feeling a little more offbeat? Check out Meow Wolf Denver, an immersive art experience that will blow your mind (think Alice in Wonderland meets Willy Wonka on acid).
Evening: Cap off your trip with a farewell dinner in Union Station, a beautifully restored train station that's now a hub of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Fairwell, Denver! You've conquered the city, devoured its delicious food, and (hopefully) avoided any unfortunate scooter-related mishaps. Take a piece of Denver's magic with you, whether it's a newfound appreciation for craft beer, a souvenir spork, or simply the memory of those majestic mountain views.
FAQs: Denver Debauchery Edition (Without the Debauchery)
How to get around Denver?
- Download a rideshare app or grab a Denver RTD pass for easy navigation
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