Denver: Mile High City, Mile High Decisions - How Long Should You Stay?
Ah, Denver. The Queen City of the Plains (with a mountain complex obsession). A city that brews like a champion, hikes like a pro, and offers enough cultural delights to keep your brain happy and your Instagram account popping. But here's the thing, friend, you're staring down a trip itinerary and a big, blank space where the number of days in Denver should be. Panic starts to set in. Do you stay for a whirlwind weekend and risk feeling like a tourist hamster on a wheel? Or do you commit to a two-week Rocky Mountain residency and end up living on a diet of craft beer and questionable decisions?
Fear not, indecisive adventurer! Here's your guide to deciphering how long to Denver-fy yourself.
How Many Days Should You Spend In Denver |
The "Weekend Warrior" (2-3 Days)
- Your motto: "Cramming is my middle name!"
- Perfect for: The city slicker who wants a taste of everything - museums, breweries, trendy neighborhoods (and maybe a quick Broncos game if you're lucky).
- What you'll experience: Hike a bit (emphasis on a bit - don't underestimate that altitude!), hit up the Denver Art Museum, sample some local suds at a trendy RiNo brewery, and catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (because, let's face it, is there anything more iconic?).
Word to the wise: This itinerary is jam-packed, so pack comfy shoes and be prepared to power through on that Denver green chili.
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
The "Mile High Meanderer" (4-6 Days)
- Your motto: "I like choices, but I also like breathing."
- Perfect for: Those who want to delve a little deeper. You have time for some proper hiking (maybe even Red Rocks Park!), explore charming mountain towns like Estes Park, and soak up the views without feeling like you're constantly sprinting.
- What you'll experience: Hike Mount Falcon for panoramic views, get lost in the Denver Botanic Gardens, take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, and maybe even catch a baseball game at Coors Field (just be prepared for a home run derby - that thin air does things to baseballs!).
Word to the wise: This is where you can start to tailor your trip to your interests. Foodie? Explore Larimer Square's restaurant scene. Art lover? Check out the museums in Golden.
The "Rocky Mountain Renegade" (1+ Week)
- Your motto: "Namaste... on a mountain peak!"
- Perfect for: The adventurer who came for the mountains and plans to conquer them (or at least take some epic selfies with them).
- What you'll experience: Multi-day backpacking trips in Rocky Mountain National Park, whitewater rafting down the Arkansas River, soaking in some natural hot springs, and maybe even scoring some epic ski deals in the winter.
Word to the wise: This is where things get real. Pack for all types of weather, be prepared for altitude sickness (drink tons of water!), and embrace the fact that your hotel room might become a temporary gear storage unit.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
FAQ: How to Denver
How to pack for Denver? Layers are your friend! Denver weather can be unpredictable, so pack for sunshine, rain, and everything in between. And don't forget those hiking boots!
How to get around Denver? Denver has a decent public transportation system, but renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the mountains.
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
How to avoid altitude sickness? Stay hydrated, take it easy for the first few days, and avoid strenuous activity right away.
How to find the best craft beer? Denver has a thriving brewery scene. Do some research online or ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
How to score cheap flights to Denver? Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into a smaller airport nearby.
So, there you have it! With this guide, you should be able to figure out how many days to spend getting your Denver on. Just remember, the most important question isn't how long you'll stay, but how much fun you'll have while you're there. Now get out there and Denver-fy yourself!