The Essential 3-Day Itinerary In Denver

Denver, Colorado is a one-of-a-kind city that effortlessly blends vibrant urban culture and awe-inspiring natural beauty. With a thriving culinary scene, diverse walkable neighborhoods, and a rich history all set against a scenic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a city that will take your breath away (and not just because the air is thinner up here).

In this packed 3 day itinerary, you’ll take in all the highlights the city has to offer, including world-class dining, historic architecture, and an arts scene that will leave you inspired.

Day 1 - Natural Beauty, Historic Charm

Get your daily steps in early with a walk through the Denver Botanic Gardens, which is a stunning display of flora any time of year. Then, keep the nature theme going with a visit to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. You’ll find permanent exhibits showcasing everything from the mummified remains of ancient Egyptian women to a dazzling display of minerals and gems from both near and far.

Explore the heart and soul of downtown at Larimer Square, a designated historic district where the city got its start and today, is a lively district of unique shops, dining, and community events. Walk just a few blocks away to grab lunch at Denver Union Station which offers plenty of dining options in a stunningly restored historical setting.

When you’re ready for a change of scenery, head to Cherry Creek Shopping Center where you’ll be able to shop ‘til you drop at all your favorite retailers. By the evening, you’ll have really worked up an appetite, so settle in at Quality Italian at Halcyon for a modern take on Italian-American steakhouse dining and fill up on classic dishes served with unique flair.

Day 2 - Breath In The Mountain Air

Take a short drive out of the city to Golden, a historic town just 12 miles from downtown Denver. Some of our favorite stops include the Colorado Railroad Museum for an immersive education on the history of locomotives, and a Coors Brewery Tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the largest single-site brewery in the world. For lunch, the vendors at The Golden Mill have something to satisfy every craving, including diverse food options and more than 50 kinds of beer, cider, and local cocktails on tap.

Finish your day by taking in a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This bucket list venue has hosted concerts and events for more than 75 years, including performances from icons like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Diana Ross. After the encore, head back into Denver to Halcyon’s rooftop bar Rare Bird, where you can continue enjoying the fresh mountain air alongside specialty drinks, local beers, and elevated fare cooked in a wood-fire oven.

Day 3 - Mile-High Arts & Culture

You don’t have to go far to fuel up for your last day of exploration when you stay at Halcyon, just walk downstairs to Local Jones for refined American fare. Spend the morning in Washington Park, where you’ll find 165 acres of greenspace and recreation facilities, two lakes, two formal gardens, and seemingly endless tree-lined trails.

Take your day in an adventurous direction at Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station, an interactive, mind-bending artistic experience with a sci-fi twist. Spend the rest of the day exploring Denver’s River North Arts District (RiNo) to discover local artists and creatives alongside jazz bars, craft breweries, plus an inspiring collection of street art.

Put a cherry on top of your visit to Denver with a visit to Welton Room for a glamorous meal with a global twist. Their American modern style tapas and imaginative cocktails will help you celebrate an unforgettable visit to Denver.

For a stay that is luxurious, comfortable, and conveniently connected, Halcyon is your gateway to all of Denver’s highlights. Find exclusive packages and special perks to help you make the most of your visit, and start planning your escape to the Mile-High City.