As a travel industry expert, I have had the privilege of visiting numerous cities and their top tourist attractions. One city that never fails to impress me is Denver, CO. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences. In this article, I will share with you the top tourist attractions in Denver, CO that you should not miss on your next visit.
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.With over 70,000 works of art from all around the world, this museum is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast. The museum's collection includes American Indian art, modern and contemporary art, and European and American paintings and sculptures. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase different themes and artists. One of the highlights of the Denver Art Museum is its unique architecture. Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the building's angular shape and titanium panels make it a work of art in itself.
The museum also has a rooftop café with stunning views of the city skyline.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Located just 15 miles west of Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a must-visit for nature lovers. This natural amphitheater is surrounded by towering red rock formations, making it one of the most iconic concert venues in the world. Many famous musicians have performed here, including The Beatles, U2, and John Denver. Apart from concerts, Red Rocks Park also offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit the Colorado Music Hall of Fame located within the park, which honors musicians who have made a significant impact on the state's music scene.Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city.It features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a water garden. The gardens also have a conservatory that houses tropical and subtropical plants from around the world. Aside from its beautiful gardens, the Denver Botanic Gardens also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Blossoms of Light, where the gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights.
16th Street Mall
The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-friendly street in downtown Denver that offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The mile-long street is lined with over 300 stores, restaurants, and cafes.You can also catch a free shuttle bus that runs along the street, making it easy to explore all that the mall has to offer. One of the highlights of the 16th Street Mall is the iconic Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower. Built-in 1911, this clock tower stands at 393 feet tall and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Denver, attracting over 2 million visitors every year. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and gorillas. One of the zoo's unique features is its Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit, which showcases Asian elephants in a naturalistic habitat. The Denver Zoo also offers various educational programs and events, making it a great place to visit with the whole family.You can also take a train ride around the zoo to get a closer look at the animals.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
If you're looking for a scenic drive, then the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a must-visit. This 28-mile road takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Colorado, including forests, lakes, and mountain peaks. The road ends at the summit of Mount Evans, one of Colorado's highest peaks at 14,264 feet. Along the way, you can stop at various viewpoints and hiking trails to take in the stunning views. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats that are often spotted along the road.Conclusion
Denver, CO, has something for everyone, from art and culture to outdoor adventures.The top tourist attractions mentioned in this article are just a few of the many things that this vibrant city has to offer. So next time you're planning a trip to Denver, make sure to add these attractions to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
