11 Things to Do in Denver in 48 Hours (For an Unforgettable Weekend)

Denver packs a punch when it comes to weekend adventures. Known as the Mile High City, this vibrant Colorado hub offers everything from stunning mountain views to world-class dining and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, art lover, or foodie, here’s how to make the most of just 48 hours in Denver.

1. Start Your Day at Denver Biscuit Company

Nothing kickstarts a Denver adventure like the towering, flaky creations at Denver Biscuit Company. The Franklin—fried chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese smothered in gravy—has saved many a traveler from morning hunger pangs.

Locals pack this place on weekends, so arrive early or prepare for a wait that’s absolutely worth it. The casual, friendly vibe makes everyone feel welcome.

Pro tip: If you can’t decide between sweet and savory, order both! The Ellsworth with strawberry jam provides the perfect balance to the heartier options.

2. Explore the Denver Art Museum’s Bold Exhibits

The Denver Art Museum stands out immediately with its sharp, titanium angles designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. Inside, Native American art collections span centuries, offering authentic insights into indigenous cultures of North America.

Modern and contemporary galleries showcase everything from Monet to emerging Colorado artists. The interactive family spaces sprinkled throughout make this museum unusually kid-friendly. Even art novices find something to connect with here.

The museum’s thoughtful layout encourages wandering and discovery without the overwhelming feeling some larger institutions create.

3. Wander the RiNo Arts District for Street Art and Coffee

RiNo explodes with color at every turn. Former warehouses now serve as canvases for massive murals that change regularly, keeping the neighborhood fresh even for repeat visitors.

Between art-gazing, pop into Crema Coffee House where baristas craft some of Denver’s finest espresso drinks. The cortado—equal parts espresso and steamed milk—provides the perfect artistic fuel. Food halls like The Source offer everything from artisanal chocolates to craft cocktails.

As evening approaches, the district transforms again as galleries open their doors and street performers add a soundtrack to the visual feast.

4. Sip a Local Brew at a Rooftop Bar in LoDo

Denver’s beer culture reaches new heights—literally—at LoDo’s rooftop establishments. ViewHouse offers panoramic mountain views that pair perfectly with their extensive Colorado craft beer selection.

The neighborhood pulses with energy as Rockies fans stream to nearby Coors Field during baseball season. Even in winter, heated patios and fire pits keep the rooftop scene alive.

Recess Beer Garden presents a more laid-back alternative with its spacious outdoor area. Their rotating taps feature smaller breweries you might miss otherwise, giving you authentic taste of Colorado’s famed beer scene.

5. Visit Union Station (and Grab Lunch Inside)

Union Station’s 1914 Beaux-Arts architecture houses a thoroughly modern gathering space. Marble floors and soaring ceilings create a grand backdrop for people-watching from the central leather sofas.

Mercantile Dining & Provision serves farm-to-table cuisine that’s worth the splurge. Their lunch menu changes seasonally, but the house-made pasta never disappoints.

After eating, browse the thoughtfully curated shops or grab a scoop from Milkbox Ice Creamery. The station still functions as a transit hub, so you might spot travelers rushing to catch trains amid those lingering over cocktails at the Terminal Bar.

6. Browse Local Finds at the Denver Central Market

Housed in a renovated 1920s building, Denver Central Market brings together eleven independent food vendors under one stylish roof. The market buzzes with energy as locals and tourists alike navigate between stalls offering everything from fresh-baked bread to craft cocktails.

Temper Chocolates creates small-batch confections that make perfect edible souvenirs. Watch chocolatiers work their magic before selecting your treats.

Vero Italian serves wood-fired pizzas with perfectly charred crusts and seasonal toppings. Grab a seat at the communal tables to enjoy your finds, or take them to go for an impromptu picnic at nearby Mestizo-Curtis Park.

7. Catch Sunset at Red Rocks Park (Even If There’s No Show)

Mother Nature and geology collaborated to create Red Rocks, a natural amphitheater nestled among massive sandstone formations. Just 15 miles from downtown, this park offers hiking trails that wind through dramatic landscapes unlike anything else in Colorado.

Arrive about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot on the amphitheater’s steps. Watch as the sinking sun transforms the red rocks into glowing embers against the darkening sky. Early risers can instead visit at dawn when fitness enthusiasts run the stairs and yoga classes unfold on the stage.

Either way, the panoramic views of Denver in the distance make for unforgettable photos.

8. Take a Stroll Through the Denver Botanic Gardens

Tucked into the Cheesman Park neighborhood, these 24-acre gardens offer a peaceful retreat from urban exploration. Japanese-inspired Shofu-en garden creates moments of zen with its carefully placed rocks and tranquil pond.

The Orangery greenhouse protects tropical plants year-round, providing a humid escape during Colorado’s drier months. Don’t miss the alpine garden showcasing native mountain species that thrive in Denver’s unique climate.

Seasonal displays ensure something’s always blooming, from spring tulips to summer water lilies. Visit during golden hour when soft light filters through the trees, creating magical photo opportunities among the lush plantings.

9. Eat at a Chef-Loved Spot Like Work & Class or Tavernetta

Work & Class embodies Denver’s unpretentious approach to serious food. The restaurant’s mantra—”a square meal, a stiff drink, and a fair price”—delivers exactly what it promises in a lively, industrial-chic setting. Latin American influences shine through in dishes like roasted goat and cornbread with jalapeño honey butter. The quarter/half/whole portion system encourages family-style sharing and sampling.

For something more refined, Tavernetta offers sophisticated Italian cuisine near Union Station. Their handmade pasta and impressive wine list have earned national acclaim, yet the atmosphere remains warm and welcoming—quintessentially Denver.

10. End the Night with a Craft Cocktail at The Cruise Room

Step back in time at The Cruise Room, Denver’s first post-Prohibition bar opened in 1933. Modeled after a lounge on the Queen Mary, its distinctive coral-pink lighting and Art Deco styling remain largely unchanged since opening day. Bartenders in crisp attire mix classics like the Sidecar and Manhattan with practiced precision.

The narrow, intimate space encourages conversation with neighbors and staff alike. Located inside the historic Oxford Hotel, it’s perfectly positioned for a nightcap after dinner downtown. The jukebox offers an eclectic mix of tunes that complement the vintage vibe without feeling like a theme park.

11. Start Day 2 with a Walk Around City Park (and Brunch at Syrup)

City Park’s 330 acres offer the perfect morning stroll to reflect on your Denver adventures. The park’s western edge frames a postcard-worthy view of downtown against the mountain backdrop.

Ferril Lake attracts paddleboaters in summer and provides a scenic loop for walkers year-round. The Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature & Science sit within the park boundaries if you’re looking to extend your visit.

Afterward, head to nearby Syrup for brunch. Their creative pancake flights let you sample multiple flavors, while mimosa flights provide the perfect weekend toast. The cozy, maple-scented interior welcomes visitors with casual mountain charm.