Take in 3 Days of Culture — and Mountain Views — in Denver, Colorado

Whether you’re drawn to Denver, Colorado’s eclectic shopping strips or fine dining at the hippest eateries, there’s no shortage of fun experiences to be had in the Mile High City.

The beauty of this destination is its proximity to everything: You can hike in absolute solitude and taste some of the country’s best brews in the same afternoon. For every indulgent indoor activity, there is an abundance of nature waiting to be enjoyed a quick drive (or bike ride!) away.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Friday: Shop and Dine in Historic Buildings

Start your day in the heart of Downtown Denver, where the city’s oldest landmarks coexist with innovative upgrades. At the center of the city lies the famed — and often photographed — Union Station. The 100-year-old transportation hub has been revitalized with restaurants, bars and shops that mingle under the chandelier-dotted Great Hall.

Fuel up for your day with a mouthwatering breakfast over at Snooze — their eggs Benedict smothered in green chile will hit the spot.

Next, head over to Larimer Square, which is the oldest block in Denver and the city’s first designated historic district. The street has maintained its small-town Western charm even with funky boutiques, swank restaurants and cocktail bars occupying the brick buildings.

Stop by Garage Sale Vintage to hunt for hidden consignment treasures or pick up some nature-inspired attire from Mountain Khakis so you fit in with the locals.

Once you’ve had your share of window shopping, stroll through the Five Points neighborhood, where jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole once performed.

In addition to its rich history of jazz, Five Points is one of Denver’s most diverse neighborhoods and has a restaurant for any craving. Check out Welton Street Café, which serves up Southern and Caribbean specialties like fried catfish and hush puppies.

As dusk settles, explore the streets of the River North Art District in Five Points, affectionately nicknamed RiNo. The façades of this industrial district are elevated with sprawling murals — and inside many of the buildings you can find contemporary galleries, concert venues and hip food halls.

If you’re in search of a truly Coloradan end to your evening, pick up a pint of a local IPA at the River North Brewery Tap Room.

Saturday: Appreciate the City’s Best Art

If any area is emblematic of Denver’s future, it’s the ever-evolving South Broadway strip, which has undergone an artistic upheaval in recent years. The roadway has been a major transportation hub in Denver since 1898 but is now known as one of the best places to shop, dine or party, frequented by artisans, shoppers and locals alike.

Begin on Antique Row, which is home to more than 100 eclectic businesses — from vintage clothing consortiums to kitschy craft stores to 80s-inspired novelty shops.

Looking through the racks at Regal Vintage will take you on a tour through archival fashion, with collectible items from 1890 to 1990.

After exploring boutiques, head to Punch Bowl Social, a favorite restaurant meets entertainment hub where you can have brunch, sing karaoke, go bowling or try your hand at a game of giant Jenga. While admittedly unconventional, this hot spot is a quintessential Denver destination, with the kind of innovative entertainment that makes the city so energetic.

To paint a complete picure of Denver’s creative scene, finish the day at the Denver Art Museum.

The building consumes an entire block, with impressive outdoor sculptures that lead into the contemporary titanium structure. Whether you enjoy the classics or modern art, the museum is home to more than 70,000 works of art and has encyclopedic collections that span centuries and diverse cultures, from Indigenous art to Georgia O’Keeffe.

For dinner, take a 15-minute drive north to the Wolf’s Tailor. The food here marries Italian and Japanese ingredients, offering an experience that’s meant to be savored, so plan on spending a few hours taking in the flavors of the seasonal menu.

From there, walk (or take a short drive) south on Tejon Street to get to the LoHi neighborhood, which is known for its many nightlife options.

Pay a visit to Recess, a beer garden with lots of seating, if you want to surround yourself with the energy of the neighborhood.

Root Down is another great option that’s known for its inventive cocktails and dedication to accommodating diets of all types: This is a good choice for vegetarians, vegans and those with allergies and intolerances.

Sunday: Enjoy Natural Beauty With a Side of Drama

Start off strong at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Coloradans never miss a chance to immerse themselves in nature, and this urban oasis is a lovely retreat from busy city life.

Winding pathways lead you through more than 24 acres of thoughtfully curated botanicals, with a wide diversity of plants made possible thanks to Denver’s high altitude and sunny climate.

Picnic beside serene ponds laden with lily pads, browse the indoor terrarium and art exhibit or attend one of the special events that coincide with holiday seasons.

Make your way back downtown and wander down the 16th Street Mall, a mile-long, pedestrian-friendly promenade packed with restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Grab a coffee or light lunch at one of the 42 outdoor cafés that line the street — it’s a great place to people-watch, too.

End your walk at the Denver Theatre District, which spans 16 blocks and encompasses 10 performing arts spaces, making it one of the largest of its kind in the United States. Nab tickets in advance to a production at the Buell Theatre or a show at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.

After the performance, find your way to Bistro Vendôme for French fare like escargots, duck confit and sautéed frog legs, where you can unwind over a glass of French wine and soak in the refined and romantic atmosphere.