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The Ultimate Denver Visitor’s Guide

Posted on August 24, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Bree Davies

Bree Davies

Children climb in real dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison.

Children climb in real dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison. (Mara Auster / Boulder Daily Camera / Getty Images)

A few years ago, the New York Times published its “36 Hours” visitor’s guide to Denver — and it seemed … incomplete (to us, at least). Over on the City Cast Denver podcast, we re-imagined those 36 hours, sharing all the can’t-miss places to eat, drink, relax, and take in all that the Mile High City has to offer. Below are just a few highlights from the more than two dozen recommendations we made — check out our "Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Denver” episode for even more cool ideas for impressing your out-of-town friends!

🍻 Somewhere to Drink

Raíces in Sun Valley is the place — the Latino-owned, community-centered brewery hosts live music, artisan markets, and local political events, along with being a family-friendly space that’s perfect for big parties. Enjoy in-house pizza, pretzels, and empanadas, all while sipping homemade brews on a killer patio.

🥩 Somewhere to Eat

Bastien’s is a throwback steakhouse with a Rat Pack-era vibe, complete with fancy cocktails and prime cuts of meat fit for a king. Housed in a beautiful Googie-style structure, the home of the “sugar steak” harkens back to a time when Colfax was known as Route 40 and supper clubs reigned supreme.

🛤️ Somewhere to Rest

Capturing the natural wonder of Colorado right in the city, Confluence Park is a gorgeous waterway surrounded by trails, grassy picnic spots, and public art, perfect for mid-day relaxing. Named for the confluence of the Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, the urban oasis is a combination of a beautiful built environment and Mother Nature’s magic.

🦴 Somewhere to Hike

No hiking boots needed at Dinosaur Ridge, an accessible, all-levels, and all-abilities hike just minutes outside the city. On it, you’ll get to explore the remnants of a Colorado thousands of years gone when the dinosaurs still roamed.

📧 What’s Your Visitor’s Guide Must-Do?

This section was written by City Cast Denver host Bree Davies.

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