Denver Doings: How Long Should You Hang With the Mile High City?
Ah, Denver. The Mile High City. Land of craft breweries, Rocky Mountain vistas, and, let's be honest, a legal advantage when it comes to indulging in a certain leafy green friend (wink wink, nudge nudge). But you, intrepid traveler, are here for the real question: how long should I stay in Denver?
The Short and Sweet Stopover (1-2 Days):
In a bit of a time crunch? No worries! Denver packs a punch in a short amount of time. Hit the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian paradise lined with shops, buskers, and that feeling of sunshine warming your happy little face. Don't miss: stuffing your face with fluffy donuts at Voodoo Doughnut (prepare for lines, these pastries are legendary!), and catching a glimpse of the city from the top of the Colorado State Capitol. For the history buffs, a trip to the Denver Art Museum is a must.
But be warned: this whirlwind tour will leave you wanting more. Denver's like that cool cousin you only see once a year - you have a blast, but then they're gone and you're left with a longing for their company (and maybe a slight hangover from all the craft beer).
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
How Many Days Should I Stay In Denver |
The Mile High Magic (3-4 Days):
Now we're talking! With 3-4 days, you can delve a little deeper into Denver's awesomeness. Hike a bit: Golden Gate Canyon State Park is just a short drive away and offers stunning views and trails for all levels. Feeling fancy? Take a day trip to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an open-air concert venue with legendary acoustics and, again, those epic mountain views. Pro tip: catch a concert here if you can - the atmosphere is electric!
Still not convinced? How about soaking up the vibes in the trendy RiNo district, Denver's answer to Brooklyn (but with better burritos). And for the beer aficionados, a pub crawl through the LoDo district is a must. With over 100 breweries in the city, you're guaranteed to find your new favorite IPA (or ten).
The Rocky Mountain Rendezvous (5+ Days):
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Alright, alright, alright. You're hooked. Denver's got you under its spell, and who can blame you? With 5 days or more, you can truly embrace the city's adventurous spirit. Rent a car and hit the road! Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and soaking up scenery so spectacular, it'll make your Instagram followers jealous. Feeling more aquatic? Kayak down Clear Creek or take a whitewater rafting trip for an adrenaline rush that'll leave you breathless (and possibly a little wet).
But wait, there's more! Denver also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and a killer music scene. You could easily spend a week here and still not see it all.
The Final Verdict
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So, how long SHOULD you stay in Denver? Well, that depends on you! Do you crave a quick city break? A couple of days will do. Want to experience the best of both worlds - city and nature? Plan on 3-4 days. Are you an outdoor enthusiast with an insatiable thirst for adventure? Pack your bags and book a week-long stay (or longer)!
Denver FAQ - How to Make the Most of Your Mile High Adventure
How to save money on travel: Look for deals on flights and hotels during the off-season (shoulder months like spring and fall). Consider using public transportation or renting a bike to get around. Pack your walking shoes - Denver is a very walkable city!
How to avoid altitude sickness: Denver sits at a mile high, so take it easy for the first 24-48 hours to allow your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous activity right away.
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
How to find the best craft breweries: Denver has over 100 breweries! The LoDo district is a great place to start, but there are hidden gems all over the city. Do some research online or ask a local for their recommendations.
How to dress for Denver: Denver has a semi-arid climate, so expect warm days and cool nights. Layers are always a good idea, and don't forget to pack sunscreen - the sun is strong at this altitude!
How to be a respectful visitor: Leave no trace! Pack out your trash when you're hiking and be mindful of wildlife. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars (around 15-20%).