There’s never a dull moment in the Mile High — this time of year, especially. Discover free festivals and activities, endless outdoor adventures and more fun things to do in Denver in summer. We also share travel-worthy day trips like places to go whitewater rafting and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Based on personal experience, our local tour company has pulled together the best of the best in this guide. Get planning your summer bucket list with options for every budget and interest!
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Denver in Summer
Sample Dishes and Drinks on Our Downtown Denver Food Tour
Whether you’re visiting or a longtime local, our top-rated Downtown Denver Food Tour is a great summer experience! Sample authentic Neapolitan pizza with housemade limoncello, baked empanadas with Malbec wine, Colorado green chile, and Wagyu frybread tacos with a zesty margarita. A Portuguese custard tart ends the meal on a sweet note.
In addition to five award-winning local restaurants, your knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Learn a little history between stops and a whole lot about the diverse Denver food scene. This 3-hour walking tour is hosted daily and starts at $75 per person, with drink pairings available for an additional fee.
Attend an Event at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Photo: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre Facebook
Though it presents events year-round, summer is arguably the best time to visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Flanked by massive rock formations, this iconic outdoor venue hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry.
Its calendar also features stand-up comics, movie screenings and one of my favorite things to do in Denver in summer: Yoga on the Rocks. Rise early to practice your warrior poses amid hundreds of colorful mats — or when there isn’t a scheduled event, head here to enjoy a free workout.
Pedal a Swan Boat at Washington Park
Photo: Wheel Fun Rentals
Washington Park comprises 155 acres featuring grassy lawns, flower gardens, walking paths and more. While there are plenty of recreational opportunities, the swan-shaped pedal boats are especially unique to this urban oasis. Get yours from Wheel Fun Rentals and cruise around Smith Lake in style. Though maybe a bit cheesy, it’s one of the most fun Denver date ideas.
Tube the South Platte River and End at Breckenridge Brewery
Photo: Adventure West Instagram
There’s no better way to beat the heat than tubing down the South Platte River. For the most convenience, book with Adventure West. This local outfitter is seasonally stationed at Breckenridge Brewery in Littleton. It provides tube rentals and shuttle transportation to the put-in, where you’ll embark on a mellow, 90-minute to 3-hour float. Hop off a short walk from the brewery, order lunch with a craft beer and maybe even catch some live music.
Dine Al Fresco at Larimer Square
Photo: Osteria Marco Facebook
With posh boutiques and several upscale eateries, Larimer Square is the place to see and be seen. String lights and Colorado flags decorate this historic strip, which claims fame as Denver’s first city block.
Take in the ambiance from one of many restaurant patios — our personal favorite is Osteria Marco’s. Famed for its housemade ricotta, this Italian mainstay is one of four stops on our 16th Street Mall Food Tour!
Watch and Learn About Endangered Species at the Denver Zoo
Photo: Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance website
With several habitats and engaging activities, it’s easy to fill an afternoon at the Denver Zoo. This conservation-minded attraction is home to several endangered species including tree kangaroos from Papua New Guinea, Sumatran orangutans and an African black rhino. Witnessing these and many other animals is one of our top-recommended activities to do with kids.
Stop and Smell the Roses at the Denver Botanic Gardens
Photo: Denver Botanic Gardens Facebook
While the Denver Botanic Gardens is one of our favorite springtime attractions, it’s arguably even more impressive in the summer. Buds become full blooms, flower beds become lush with regional and exotic plants and outdoor events are frequently hosted. Enjoy guided morning yoga or attend its family-friendly concert series, wandering the gardens between talented acts.
Enjoy Summertime Thrills at Elitch Gardens
Photo: Elitch Gardens Facebook
Regardless of age, Elitch Gardens is one of the best things to do in Denver in summer. Spin around in the teacups, let out screams on thrilling rollercoasters and test your luck on a few carnival games. There’s also an extensive water park, making this attraction a winner on sweltering days. Take a dip in the lazy river and splash down slides with the whole family.
Jam Out at the Underground Music Showcase
Photo: Underground Music Showcase Facebook
The Underground Music Showcase comprises four outdoor stages and twelve additional venues on Broadway. Come July 25 to 27, they’ll host more than two hundred bands — up-and-coming local performers and national breakouts — plus a crowd of high-energy fans. Though this summer’s details have yet to be announced, there’s no question its 25th anniversary will involve an epic line-up.
Eat and Explore on our RiNo Arts District Food Tour
RiNo is a trendy downtown neighborhood with vibrant street art and a brewery on nearly every block. Cocktail bars and lively eateries add to its dining scene, which you can explore on our guided RiNo Arts District Food Tour!
Tastings include creamy ricotta gnocchi, a flavorful chicken chickpea sandwich, sourdough pizza, creative street tacos and mochi donuts for dessert. Between stops, strike a pose with several murals and learn about the artists within this incredible community. Three-hour walking tours are hosted daily for $75 per person, with drink pairings available for an extra cost.
Nosh on Food Truck Fair at Civic Center EATS
Photo: Civic Center EATS website
Looking for lunch options in downtown Denver? Check out the local food trucks involved with Civic Center EATS. This event is hosted at Civic Center Park on Wednesdays and Thursdays during three periods: May 14 to June 26 (spring), July 9 to August 28 (summer) and September 10 to October 16 (fall). Each weekday and season brings in a fresh selection which ranges from shawarma and street tacos to barbecue, burgers and much more.
Order a Scoop from Little Man Ice Cream
Photo: Little Man Ice Cream Facebook
Since opening in 2008, homegrown chain Little Man Ice Cream has become a Denver institution. Of its nine locations, its flagship in LoHi is my personal favorite.
Order a scoop from its giant milk bucket-shaped shop and take in the ambiance. Summer brings about a whole host of outdoor events including movie screenings, swing dancing and live music. Expect a line down the block on a busy weekend, but flavors like banana pudding and vegan salted Oreo are well worth the wait.
Cheer on the Rockies at Coors Field
Photo: Colorado Rockies Facebook / Kyle Cooper
Cheap rockpile tickets, sunset views and a hot dog paired with an ice-cold Coors — there’s no better way to spend an evening. Ask just about any local and they’ll agree that seeing a Rockies baseball game is one of the best things to do in Denver in summer. Round out your outing with other fun activities near Coors Field, like the National Ballpark Museum and pre-game drink specials at McGregor Square.
Explore the Shops and Eateries on Dairy Block
Photo: Dairy Block Facebook
Downtown’s Dairy Block features local boutiques and dozens of eateries, from casual food stalls inside Denver Milk Market to Michelin-starred Brutø. This trendy micro-district is also one of our favorite places for drinks near the ballpark. Sip whiskey at Seven Grand, toast IPAs at Westbound & Down or order craft cocktails at Poka Lola Social Club — which is one of three stops on our Cocktail Tasting Tour.
Free Things to Do in Denver in Summer
View Vibrant Murals at the Denver Chalk Art Festival
Photo: Denver Chalk Art Festival Facebook
On June 7 and 8, the Denver Chalk Art Festival will decorate the city with vibrant, hand-drawn murals. Watch more than two hundred artists work on detailed designs, snap photos and vote for your favorite. This free outdoor event takes place along Bannock Street in the Golden Triangle Creative District, just a block south of Civic Center Park. Follow the crowd — or the music coming from the band stage!
Dance to the Beat at City Park Jazz
Photo: City Park Jazz website
From June through August, City Park Jazz hosts a ten-part concert series every Sunday from 6 to 8 pm. As its name implies, these free, family-friendly shows occur at City Park, the largest urban park in Denver. With 300 acres, there’s plenty of space to throw a blanket down. Grab a bite from one of several stationed food trucks, then settle in and sway to the bluesy beat.
Revel In Love and Community at Denver PrideFest
Photo: Denver PrideFest website
Denver PrideFest will take over Civic Center Park on June 28 and 29. Run the fundraiser 5k, attend the celebratory parade, shop the “gayborhood market” featuring small LGBTQ-owned businesses and enjoy a range of entertainment, from live music to drag shows. There’s a whole lot to love about this pride event, which Time Out ranks as the fourth best in the country.
Shop for Fresh Produce and More at Local Farmers Markets
Photo: South Pearl Street Facebook
Farmers markets are some of the best things to do in Denver in summer. Wander the booths for free or bring a few bucks for fresh flowers, local produce and artisan goods like sourdough bread, handmade pasta and even ready-made meals.
There are several across the metro area, but I especially recommend City Park Farmers Market on Saturdays and South Pearl Street Farmers Market on Sundays. Also, check out Urban Market at Union Station which is hosted several weekends from June through November.
View Whimsical Works at the Museum of Outdoor Arts
Photo: Museum of Outdoor Arts Facebook
Local concertgoers may have seen the Museum of Outdoor Arts while hustling into Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. But the next time you’re attending a show, give yourself extra time to view this free outdoor exhibit. Several permanent sculptures and rotating installations are on display outside the venue. You can see even more works within Marjorie Park, which generally charges admission — but it’s free to Fiddler’s Green ticketholders on event dates. Don’t miss out!
Catch a Free Flick in One of the City’s Many Parks
Photo: Denver Performing Arts Complex Facebook
Many public parks host free screening series during the summer. There’s Movies on the Green in Central Park, Sunset Cinema at the Denver Performing Arts Complex and Movie Nights at Glendale’s Infinity Park, to name a few. Films generally start at dusk and are often family-friendly. See the event calendar at the urban park nearest you for more info and remember to pack popcorn in your picnic basket.
Celebrate Freedom at the Juneteenth Music Festival
Photo: Juneteenth Music Festival website
The Juneteenth Music Festival will return to Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood on June 14 and 15. Festivities kick off with the city’s longest-running parade, then culminate in a series of free concerts and block parties featuring more than two hundred local vendors. Not to mention, this event pulls together some of the best local restaurants. Sample Cajun eats from Nola Jane, barbecue from Charlie’s Smoked Meats and much more.
Peer Into Local Galleries During First Friday Art Walks
Photo: River North Art District Facebook
During the summer, several neighborhoods’ studios, galleries and museums host special events on the first Friday of the month. On these dates, I especially love wandering the Art District on Santa Fe and the Tennyson Street Cultural District.
Of course, there’s also the River North Art District which is packed with street art and cultural attractions (what better time to join our RiNo Arts District Food Tour?)
Explore the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Photo: Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Facebook
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge isn’t particularly a hidden gem. Yet, so many locals I meet have yet to visit this free attraction. Along with family-friendly hikes, fishing and an archery range, it features an epic wildlife drive. Navigate around the eleven-mile loop where you’ll often spot prairie dogs, mule and white-tailed deer, coyotes, bald eagles and even a whole herd of bison. Visit at dawn or dusk for the best chances at spotting these and other species.
Summer Day Trips from Denver
Hike Scenic Trails at Rocky Mountain National Park
Photo: Rocky Mountain National Park Facebook
Summer is my favorite time to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. Trails have finally thawed, providing access to stunning lakes and dramatic peaks. The country’s highest continuously paved road, Trail Ridge Road, is plowed and open to traffic. I highly recommend this scenic drive, where you’re likely to spot elk, marmots and other wildlife in the high alpine tundra.
Trust me, this destination is well worth the 90-minute commute from Denver. However, note that a timed entry reservation is required during select hours from late May through September. Plan ahead so you don’t miss out!
Hop on Board the Georgetown Loop Railroad
Photo: Georgetown Loop Railroad Facebook
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is less than an hour from the city but feels a world away. Travel back in time as your train car chugs above Clear Creek and past panoramic views. Though not required, I recommend extending your journey with a stop at the former Lebanon Mine. Explore the tunnels and pan for gold, then catch the locomotive back for a greater glimpse into this mining town’s rich history.
Admire the Front Range from a Hot Air Balloon
Photo: Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides Facebook
Witness the Front Range from a new perspective with Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides. Sunrise flights take off from Longmont, a town roughly 45 minutes north of Denver. Help your pilot inflate the massive balloon, then soar several thousands of feet above the plains and rocky peaks. Your photos are sure to be incredible. Back on the ground, tours end with a complimentary champagne toast. Cheers!
Go on a Whitewater Rafting Adventure Down Clear Creek
Photo: AVA Rafting & Zipline Facebook
There are several places to go whitewater rafting near Denver, but Clear Creek Canyon is your closest option. Multiple outfitters like AVA and Liquid Descent are posted up here, offering tours for all ability levels.
Beginners and families with children can opt for a short, mellow float in the late summer. But if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, book a guided experience in June when the high peaks’ snowmelt creates big, challenging rapids. Don a wet suit to stay warm and know that you’re bound to get soaked on this adventure.
Fly Fish on the Arkansas River’s Gold Medal Water
Photo: UpRiver Fly Fishing Facebook
Fly fishing has surged in popularity in recent years. But between fly selection, knot tying and casting techniques, it can be a bit intimidating to newcomers. To get started, join a guided experience with UpRiver Fly Fishing in Buena Vista.
Located two hours from Denver, this outfitter will set you up with the gear and knowledge to successfully reel in a catch. Plus, the Arkansas River boasts the longest stretch of Gold Medal water in Colorado. This 102-mile section teems with trout — and big ones, too!
Pull on Your Cowboy Boots for the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo
Photo: Douglas County Fair & Rodeo Facebook
For a hoot n’ hollerin’ good time, check out the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo from July 25 to August 3. The Castle Rock community has held this celebration for over a century and in that time, it’s expanded to include all kinds of festivities.
Attend the free hometown rodeo, watch kiddos compete in the mutton bustin’ event, shop for Western apparel in the marketplace, and nosh on deep-fried fair food. A carnival and country music concert add to the family-friendly fun, set just thirty minutes south of Denver.
Drive the Lariat Loop Byway Through the Scenic Foothills
Photo: Golden Colorado CVB website
Spend a summer afternoon exploring the foothills’ stunning Lariat Loop. This 40-mile route is one of thirteen National Scenic Byways in Colorado, and the most accessible from Denver. It passes several attractions including Lookout Mountain, home to the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. Learn about the iconic Western showman, pull over for a quick hike at Bergen Park, enjoy lunch in the town of Evergreen and end the drive with a stop at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Pick Summer Fruits at Berry Patch Farms in Brighton
Photo: Colorado Tourism website
Berry Patch Farms is located in Brighton, about thirty minutes from downtown Denver. From June through September, this family-owned, forty-acre farm allows visitors to walk the fields and pick their own organic produce. Fill your basket with ripe raspberries, juicy strawberries, cherries to bake homemade pies and much more, including fresh flowers. It’s a charming day trip for all ages.
