Outdoor Adventures, City Gems, and Must-See Experiences Through the Eye of a Current DU Student

WOne of the most exciting things about going to school in Denver is the number of things to do that fit a variety of interests. Whether you love the outdoors or prefer to stay inside, explore the mountains or check out city sights, there will be plenty of exciting options for you at a variety of price points. 

Through my three years at DU, I have had the chance to explore all around the state of Colorado and have curated a list of classic Denver activities as well as things that may be a bit off the beaten path.  

Free Activities: 

Go for a hike 

Denver and the surrounding mountains have so many cool trails. You can see stunning mountain views, swim in a waterfall, or check out fields of wildflowers in the spring. My personal favorite is St. Mary’s Glacier, but apps like AllTrails show you how to access many hikes. 

Explore Downtown Denver 

Downtown Denver is a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern energy, with iconic landmarks like Union Station, a booming culinary scene, and unique local boutiques. Whether you’re strolling along the bustling 16th Street Mall or catching a game at Coors Field, there’s something for everyone. 

Go for a walk in the park 

As a lover of parks, Denver has so over 200 city parks, giving me so many options. From the eclectic Observatory Park near DU’s Campus to larger parks like City Park or Wash(ington) Park, these have wonderful walking trails and boast gorgeous views of the fall foliage. They are also a great spot for outdoor recreation in the spring and summer. 

Affordable: 

Professional Sport Teams 

Seeing professional sports teams in Denver offers an unforgettable experience with passionate fan bases and high-energy games across iconic venues like Coors Field, Ball Arena, and Empower Field at Mile High. Home to teams like the Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, Denver Nuggets, and Colorado Avalanche, the city provides year-round entertainment for every sports enthusiast. 

Denver Art Museum 

This is a must-visit destination, showcasing world-class exhibitions and an extensive collection that spans cultures, eras, and mediums. Its striking architecture, including the iconic Frederic C. Hamilton Building, enhances the experience with modern design that mirrors the creativity within. Whether you’re exploring Western American art, immersive contemporary installations, or global masterpieces, the museum offers something to inspire every visitor. 

More expensive, but worth the experience: 

Meow Wolf: 

Imagine you are dropped into another dimension. That’s what it feels like to visit Meow Wolf, an immersive art experience like no other. It blends mind-bending installations with interactive storytelling to create a surreal journey through vibrant, otherworldly realms. Explore a neon metropolis, enter labyrinths, and visit the stars. 

Hit the slopes and go skiing or snowboarding 

DU is close to many major resorts, including Copper, Winter Park, and Breckenridge. Even if you have no skiing experience, there are a bunch of options for different levels, complete with stunning views and the thrill of witnessing the Colorado outdoors 

See a concert at Red Rocks 

Red Rocks is one of the most famous concert venues in the world and for good reason. The venue is nestled in between massive red sandstone formations and boasts incredible natural acoustics. Their concert season is typically from April to October and offers a great line-up of artists across a variety of genres. 

No matter what, you can find something memorable to do in Denver, because no matter your interests, the Mile High City is full of unique and exciting experiences for every kind of person.