3 Days in Downtown Denver: The Ultimate Itinerary
Denver is the perfect intersect between lively, outdoor adventures, world-class attractions, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Located in the Cherry Creek North neighborhood, Halcyon is only steps away from some of the best sights and activities in all of Denver. We hope this three-day guide will help make the most of your time here.
DAY 1
Kick off your Denver getaway by having breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery—one of Denver’s most popular breakfast spots. Then, head over to the Denver Art Museum to immerse yourself in a world of must-see exhibits, where more than 70,000 works of art await to leave you inspired.
Next, head over to the 16th Street Mall—an iconic 1.25 mile shopping strip filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. This shopping district is a fan-favorite due to its’ easy walkability and diverse offering of shops. After you explore this urban plaza, feel free to grab lunch at fan-favorites like The Kitchen or Corner Bakery.
For your first evening in the Mile High City, head to Larimer Square, a historic district in the heart of downtown Denver. This charming area is filled with some of the city’s trendiest restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and bars. Dine at Rioja or Tamayo for a great dinner experience amidst a lively atmosphere.
DAY 2
One of the reasons Denver makes it easy to craft an unforgettable itinerary is because of the vast array of outdoor adventures, like the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. Guests can choose from various trails, such as the Trading Post Trail or Red Rocks Trail, offering scenic moments among the mountaintops and rock formations.
After a morning filled with hiking, head to the Denver Botanic Gardens for some rest and recovery among the calming gardens and exhibits. With over 24 acres of flourishing landscapes, the Gardens are home to a diverse array of plant species, making your visit both educational and relaxing. Conveniently so, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy lunch cravings for everyone visiting.
Foodies will not be disappointed when it comes to choosing where to go for dinner in Denver. For eclectic American fare, try Acorn, a modern eatery with plenty of delicious dishes. For a premier steakhouse in downtown Denver, we recommend going to Guard and Grace. If you don’t want to travel far after a day outdoors, there’s Quality Italian, located within Halcyon and what we consider one of the best Italian restaurants in all of Denver.
DAY 3
Discover a world of wildlife at the Denver Zoo. This zoo houses over 4,000 animals from 600 species, and 15 different habitats. After walking across the 80 acres of vast space and observing the many educational programs offered, we’re certain this is a family-friendly activity for all age groups to enjoy.
Following the zoo, head over to the River North Arts District (RiNo), a cultural hub that showcases various murals and art galleries for public viewing. As you stroll through this vibrant neighborhood, you’ll also stumble upon some of the city’s best culinary delights.
Finally, end your trip by relaxing atop the Rare Bird Rooftop at Halcyon. This sophisticated outdoor space allows guests to marvel at views of the Rocky Mountains and the Denver skyline, all while indulging in refined spirits, wine by the glass, and craft beer.
