Spending some time in Denver, Colorado this spring? Denver is packed with a ton of culture, exquisite cuisine, and plenty of great music, sports, and outdoor activities. However, it’s nice to get out of the city for the day and enjoy so fun attractions close to Denver. Check out these day trips near Denver to make the most of everything Colorado has to offer.
Boulder, Colorado
Head just half an hour northwest of Denver to the happening college town of Boulder. It’s home to the University of Colorado, plenty of downtown life, hiking, and biking in beautiful mountain scenery. Meander your way down the Pearl Street mall and swing through some of the great shops that are scattered throughout the town or stop at Sanitas Brewing Company for craft beverages and tacos. If you’re looking to catch some views, check out the Royal Arch Trail. This 3.4 mile loops is incredibly popular, but the reward is well worth it.
Cliffside Zipline | Idaho Springs, Colorado
If you’re on the hunt for a thrilling adventure, head thirty minutes west of Denver to the historic mountain town of Idaho Springs, Colorado. AVA’s Cliffside Zipline will send you soaring among the mountaintops and you’ll catch incredible views of the Continental Divide while zipping along this 6-line course.
Black Hawk and Central City, Colorado
Feeling lucky? Head to Black Hawk or Central City, Colorado to try your gambling hand at one of the many casinos in these two towns. The drive is less than an hour from Denver into the beautiful Rocky Mountains, so be sure to head that way during daylight to gawk at the views. There also are plenty of buffets that are a huge hit with locals, so show up with a few bucks and an empty stomach!
Red Rocks Amphitheater | Morrison, Colorado
Image courtesy of Pixabay.
Enjoy some of the many wonderful events hosted at the prominent Red Rocks Amphitheater. The venue is just half an hour west of downtown Denver and set right in the foothills on the front range. The large scarlet structures surrounding the amphitheater make this a magical place to listen to your favorite band or watch the sun rise during a morning yoga session.
Wild Animal Sanctuary | Keenesburg, Colorado
If wild animals are more your style, head out to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg. This is a spectacular institution that rescues all types of wild animals from inhumane condition all over the world. Over 500 large carnivores now reside on this sanctuary’s 720 acres, leaving you to view them in as much of their natural habitat as possible.
Santa Fe Art District | Denver, Colorado
With over 30 art studios and galleries along this strip, those searching for some masterpieces will love the Art District on Santa Fe. “First Fridays” display some incredible work every first Friday of the month on Santa Fe Drive, leaving you with endless amounts of artists pieces to view scattered among the shops and street.
*Featured image courtesy of Daniel Joder.
