Summer in Denver is unmatched. It can get warm, but the city rarely sees temperatures in the 100s. As locals will tell you, when it does get hot, it’s “dry heat.” Heat with little humidity is glorious.
Summer is a time when Denver truly comes alive. Fans come out to cheer on the Rockies, rooftop bars are humming into the late hours, beer gardens are full, and amusement parks are offering more thrills than ever. No matter the season, there is always something to do in Denver, but summer is special. Here are the eight top things to do in Denver in summer.
Visit Beer Gardens
Colorado is famous for its breweries. There are hundreds of them in the state, with many located in Denver. Countless breweries also have beer gardens. Meet up with friends and enjoy the cool summer evenings while trying new beers or ordering old favorites. Some of the top beer gardens in Denver include Bierstadt Lagerhaus, Ratio Beerworks, Lowry Beer Garden,14er Brewing, and Recess Beer Garden.
Explore the RiNo Art District
Art enthusiasts and beer enthusiasts can’t miss the RiNo Art District in Denver. The River North Art District is composed of a good mix of urban and industrial charm. Find old factories and warehouses that have been turned into art galleries, brewpubs, bars, and restaurants. This district is home to a variety of businesses, such as winemakers, furniture makers, coffee roasters, and more. Don’t miss Puttshack, which offers tech-infused mini-golf, a rocking patio, and a scrumptious menu. Plus, as you visit the area, you can enjoy art in galleries and also in vibrant street murals.
For a more in-depth look at this area, consider the RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour from Denver Microbrew Tour. This area has more than 20 breweries within a mile of each other. Go on this tour to sample beers from four top beer spots while also learning more about the amazing street art scene in this area.
Cheer on the Colorado Rockies
The baseball season starts in the spring, but really heats up in the summer. Whether you are a baseball fan or not, a night out at Coors Field is a great time. Expect to see far-flying home runs because of the high altitude, exciting plays, and tons of delicious food.
The Savannah Bananas also occasionally make a stop at Coors Field, and fans can see concerts when the Rockies don’t have a game. With its convenient location in downtown Denver, there are numerous parking options and an abundance of shops and restaurants nearby. You can also consider taking public transportation, as you can walk to the field from Union Station.
Enjoy an Outdoor Concert at the Denver Botanic Gardens
Summer is a great time to visit the Denver Botanic Gardens. You could buy a daytime pass to see the vibrant blooms, but another option is to visit in the summer for a concert. With a Summer Concert Series ticket, you can explore the gardens after the doors open and during the concert. It’s a win-win!
The concerts take place at the UMB Bank Amphitheater, located within the Denver Botanic Gardens. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and concert-goers are invited to bring blankets, low-profile chairs, food, drinks, and beverages. You can even bring your own alcohol. Limited parking is available at the parking complex between York and Josephine Streets, but it fills up quickly. Alternate transportation, such as ride-shares and bikes, is encouraged.
Visit Animals at The Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance was established in 1896 and spans 80 acres. You can see more than 3,000 animals from 400 species. More than two million people visit the zoo each year, and some of the most popular exhibits include Predator Ridge, which features large carnivores, Primate Panorama, and Toyota Elephant Passage.
Animal demonstrations are available daily, and there are often special events and experiences at the zoo. Ride the Denver Zoo Railroad, grab food from one of the many cafés and stands, and take part in Gorilla Trek, a virtual reality experience that puts you in the African jungle among critically endangered gorillas.
If you are hoping to see multiple sights in Denver, consider bundling your Denver Zoo admission with a Denver CityPASS®. You can choose from a one-time admission to three, four, or five attractions, which include:
- Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance
- Denver Downtown Aquarium
- Denver Museum of Nature and Science
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Children’s Museum of Denver at Marisco Campus
- Wings Over the Rockies™ Air and Space Museum
- Denver Art Museum
- History Colorado Center.
Get an Adrenaline Rush at Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is popular among residents and visitors. In this theme park, find thrill rides, family rides, kids’ rides, and water park attractions. Choose from tickets for a single day or save with a season pass. Some of the most popular thrill rides are the Sidewinder, Boomerang, Brain Death, Half Pipe, Star Flyer, Sling Shot, Mind Eraser, and the 10-story classic wooden coaster, Twister III: Storm Chaser.
The water park is open from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day and is included with park admission. There are thrill rides and family rides available, with some rides having height and weight requirements. Dining, shopping, and games are also available at the park. There is plenty to do here to spend an entire day or even multiple days.
Paddleboarding in Denver
Paddleboarding is a relaxing way to spend a day or a few hours in the summer. Denver is not really known for its abundance of water, but there are some places in Denver and nearby that you can get out on the water.
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir at Cherry Creek State Park is a terrific option for paddleboarding. There is an admission fee, or residents can use their state park pass. Cherry Creek State Park spans 4,200 acres and offers opportunities for boaters, paddleboarders, hikers, bicyclists, and swimmers. Campsites are also available, making this a fantastic summer destination.
Sloan’s Lake Park
Home of the biggest body of water within the Denver city limits, Sloan’s Lake Park has two playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, athletic fields, trails, picnic areas, and the lake. Sloan’s Lake used to be open to power boats and water skiing, but that is no longer the case. Now, only kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and other non-motorized crafts are allowed, making it a peaceful escape from the big city.
Bear Creek Lake Park
Bear Creek Lake Park is a gem of the metro Denver area. This park offers camping, fishing, boating, bicycle paths, horse trails, and picnic shelters. It is a serene place for paddleboarding, a short drive from downtown Denver.
Attend a Summer Festival in Denver
Many festivals occur in Denver each summer. Sometimes, you might stumble across a festival or farmers’ market when walking through town. That is always a welcome surprise. However, you can also plan to participate in one of the many festivals planned in Denver during the summer.
Chalk Art Festival
The Denver Chalk Art Festival takes place each year in early June and is free to attend. Artists take to the sidewalks in the Golden Triangle Creative District, two blocks south of Civic Center Park near the cross streets of 12th and Bannock.
Come out to see professional artists who have been working for decades on this craft, and also support emerging artists and the youth challenge. Be amazed at the art, some of which is extremely detailed and life-like, some abstract, and some optical illusions. If you get hungry, stop by and visit one of the food vendors, and don’t forget to vote for the People’s Choice Award. If you are an artist, consider applying to participate in this festival.
Juneteenth Music Festival
Each year, the historic Five Points Neighborhood hosts the Juneteenth Music Festival to celebrate the day that the last of the enslaved people in this nation learned of their freedom. Vendors line the streets, and all who come can find entertainment and celebrations. There is also a parade and plenty of live entertainment.
Denver Cherry Blossom Festival
Celebrate Japanese culture and heritage at the Denver Cherry Blossom Festival at Sakura Square in late June. Feel the energy during taiko drumming demonstrations, shop for Japanese artwork and gifts, and try sake, teriyaki chicken, and other Japanese delicacies. In addition, there are informative exhibits and demonstrations throughout the festival. Admission is free, and there are many opportunities for sponsors and volunteers to get involved.
Denver PrideFest
Experience one of the top 10 Pride events in the country. Denver PrideFest has been thrown by Denver’s LGBTQ+ community since 1974. It is a celebration of community and culture, and all are welcome, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. More than 500,000 people typically attend each year. Find over 250 exhibitors, food and beverage vendors, and live performances. This is the biggest Pride celebration, but watch for smaller events throughout Denver during Pride Month.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival takes place each year at the beginning of July on the streets of Cherry Creek North. Experience the talent of more than 250 juried artists, gain some inspiration for your own projects, and purchase art for your home or for gifts. In addition to the featured art, this festival also includes live music, activities for kids, food, and information about art education.
Independence Eve Celebration
Join an annual tradition that brings Denver together at Indy Eve at Civic Center Park. This free and interactive event is free for all ages and presented by the City and County of Denver together with the Civic Center Conservancy. Expect to find music, food, and shopping available at the night market. Enjoy roaming circus performers, games, and more activities in the Family Fun Zone. Later in the evening, a group from the Colorado Symphony performs, and then there is an LED circus spectacle and drone show.
Denver International Festival
In addition to Juneteenth, the Five Points Neighborhood in Denver also hosts the Denver International Festival in early August. Come enjoy a day of food from around the globe, live music, and cultural performances. Live music, dancing, and DJs perform on two stages. Plus, there are interactive exhibits, artisan vendors, and a dedicated space for kids to participate in hands-on activities.
Summer is the best time to get out and explore a city. Take advantage of the extra sunlight available during the summer in Denver and make a list now of all the events and activities you want to experience. Check out a new festival, get to a new park, or go back to your old favorites. The sky is the limit in the Mile High City.