With countless things to do in Denver in summer, narrowing down plans can be tricky. But here’s a quick rundown: Music lovers have to see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Sports fans will love rooting for the Rockies at Coors Field. The free Sunset Cinema series at the Performing Arts Complex will delight all ages, though our #1 recommendation is a Downtown Denver Food Tour.
Our local tour company has pulled together the best seasonal activities in this guide. It covers annual festivals, iconic attractions, and even travel-worthy day trips, like places to go whitewater rafting and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Click on the table of contents below to jump ahead if you’re curious about a particular section, and get planning your summer bucket list!
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Denver in Summer
Sample Dishes and Drinks on Our Downtown Denver Food Tour
Downtown Denver │ Book a Tour │ Price: $$ │ Our Top Pick
Sample wood-fired pizza and more on a guided culinary experience
Whether you’re visiting or a longtime local, our top-rated Downtown Denver Food Tour is a great summer experience. Sample authentic Neapolitan pizza with housemade limoncello, baked empanadas with Malbec wine, spicy green chile, and frybread tacos with a zesty margarita. A Portuguese custard tart ends the meal on a sweet note.
In addition to five award-winning local restaurants, your knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Learn a little history between stops and a whole lot about the diverse Denver food scene. This 3-hour walking tour is hosted daily and starts at $75 per person, with drink pairings available for an additional fee.
Attend an Event at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison │ Red Rocks Website │ Price: $$ │ Epic Entertainment
Attend Yoga on the Rocks and other events (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 incredible outdoor venue hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry.
Its 2026 calendar also features stand-up comics, movie screenings, and 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.
Enjoy Summertime Thrills at Elitch Gardens
2000 Elitch Cir, Denver │ Elitch Gardens Website │ Price: $$ │ Summer Nostalgia
Several rides offer skyline views (photo: Elitch Gardens Facebook)
Regardless of age, Elitch Gardens is one of the best things to do in Denver in summer. Spin around in the teacups, let out screams on thrilling rollercoasters, and test your luck on a few carnival games.
There’s also an extensive water park, making this attraction a winner on sweltering days. Take a dip in the lazy river and splash down slides with the whole family.
Watch and Learn About Endangered Species at the Denver Zoo
2300 Steele St, Denver │ Denver Zoo Website │ Price: $ │ Educational Fun
Elephants reside in one of many habitats (photo: Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance website)
With several habitats and engaging activities, it’s easy to fill an afternoon at the Denver Zoo. This conservation-minded attraction is home to several endangered species including tree kangaroos from Papua New Guinea, Sumatran orangutans, and an African black rhino. Witnessing these and many other animals is one of our top-recommended activities to do with kids.
Stop and Smell the Roses at the Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York St, Denver │ Denver Botanic Gardens Website │ Price: $ │ Seasonal Blooms
The garden often hosts live music in the summer (photo: Denver Botanic Gardens Facebook)
While the Denver Botanic Gardens is one of our favorite springtime attractions, it’s arguably even more impressive in the summer. Buds become full blooms, flower beds are lush with regional and exotic plants, and outdoor events are frequently hosted. Enjoy guided morning yoga or attend its family-friendly concert series, wandering the gardens between talented acts.
Explore 16th Street on a Guided Food Tour
Downtown Denver │ Book a Tour │ Price: $$ │ Vibrant & Flavorful
Newly renovated, 16th Street is home to restaurants, retailers, and landmarks
Following years of renovation, this downtown pedestrian mall is now more vibrant than ever. Book a 16th Street Food Tour to discover the promenade’s best restaurants and things to do.
Our lunchtime experience visits four fantastic local eateries, where guests can sample flavorful bison chili, hoisin duck bao, and more delicious bites. We also make at stop at the historic Brown Palace Hotel. Learn about it and other chapters of Denver’s history on this engaging tour.
Dine Al Fresco at Larimer Square
1430 Larimer St, Denver │ Larimer Square Website │ Price: $$ │ Lively & Chic
A bazaar often pops up in the summer months (photo: Larimer Square website)
String lights and Colorado flags decorate this historic strip, which claims fame as Denver’s first city block. Larimer Square is the place to see and be seen, with posh boutiques and several upscale eateries.
Some of our favorite restaurant patios here include Osteria Marco, a classic choice for Italian fare; as well as Tamayo, where you’ll find modern Mexican flavors. Grab a scoop at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream for dessert.
Rent a Pedal Boat at Washington Park
701 S Franklin St, Denver │ Wash Park Website │ Price: $ │ Date Night Pick
Collect rentals near the boathouse (photo: City and County of Denver website)
Washington Park comprises 155 acres featuring grassy lawns, flower gardens, walking paths, and more. While there are plenty of recreational opportunities, the pedal boats are especially unique to this urban oasis. Get yours from the boathouse and cruise around Smith Lake in style. Though maybe a bit cheesy, it’s one of the most fun Denver date ideas.
Jam Out at the Underground Music Showcase
RiNo Art District │ UMS Website │ Price: $$ │ A Local Favorite
This music festival will take over RiNo in late July (photo: Underground Music Showcase Facebook)
Long held on South Broadway, the Underground Music Showcase will return in 2026 with stages throughout the RiNo Art District.
Come July 24 – 26, multiple venues will host more than two hundred 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 revival will involve an epic line-up.
Eat and Explore on our RiNo Arts District Food Tour
RiNo Art District │ Book a Tour │ Price: $$ │ Trendy Art & Eats
Adobo chicken tacos, one of several tastings 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 freshly baked German pretzel with bier cheese, sourdough pizza, creative street tacos, and blackberry basil ice cream 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
101 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver │ Civic Center Website │ Price: $ │ Picnic Perfect
Food trucks lined up in Civic Center Park (photo: Civic Center EATS website)
Looking for lunch options in downtown Denver? Check out the local food trucks stationed in Civic Center Park. Each weekday and season brings in a fresh selection which ranges from shawarma and street tacos to barbecue, burgers, and much more.
In 2026, this event is hosted on Wednesdays and Thursdays during three periods: May 13 – June 25 (spring), July 8 – August 27 (summer), and September 9 – October 15 (fall).
Order a Scoop from Little Man Ice Cream
2620 16th St, Denver │ Little Man Ice Cream Website │ Price: $ │ Worth The Wait
The milk bucket-shaped location in LoHi often draws a crowd (photo: Little Man Ice Cream Facebook)
Since opening in 2008, homegrown chain Little Man Ice Cream has become a Denver institution. Of its ten 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
2001 Blake St, Denver │ Colorado Rockies Website │ Price: $$ │ Team Spirit
Sunset games are a summer classic (photo: Colorado Rockies Facebook)
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 drinks at McGregor Square (one of several spots featured on our Denver Cocktails Tour).
Explore the Shops and Eateries on Dairy Block
1800 Wazee St, Denver │ Dairy Block Website │ Price: $$ │ Buzzy Microdistrict
The Dairy Block alleyway is full of fun spots (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 microdistrict 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 another of the four stops on our Denver Cocktails Tour.
Free Things to Do in Denver in Summer
View Vibrant Murals at the Denver Chalk Art Festival
12th Ave & Bannock St, Denver │ Chalk Art Festival Website │ Price: $ │ Colorful Creativity
Watch artists at work during the event (photo: Denver Chalk Art Festival Facebook)
The Denver Chalk Art Festival will decorate the city with vibrant, hand-drawn murals on June 6 – 7, 2026. 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
700 Colorado Blvd, Denver │ City Park Jazz Website │ Price: $ │ Outdoor Tunes
Many performers take part in this summer concert series (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
16th St from Broadway to Arapahoe St, Denver │ Denver Pride Website │ Price: $ │ Dazzling Energy
The parade will take place on Sunday, June 28 (photo: Denver PrideFest website)
Denver PrideFest will take over Civic Center Park on June 27 – 28, 2026. 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
Multiple locations │ Visit Denver Website │ Price: $ │ Colorado Fare
Shoppers milling about during the market in City Park (photo: City Park Farmers Market website)
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 May through October.
See why Denver food tours are a top-rated local experience
Join our curated restaurant tours led by friendly local guides! Denver landmarks, neighborhood stories, and a full meal included. Tours run 7 days a week. Over 5000 five-star reviews.
View Whimsical Works at the Museum of Outdoor Arts
6331 S Fiddlers Green Cir, Greenwood Village │ MOA Website │ Price: $ │ Mesmerizing & Cool
This nature-inspired mural is one of several installations (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
Multiple locations │ Visit Denver Website │ Price: $ │ Family-Friendly Fun
DCPA holds the popular Sunset Cinema series (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 2026 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
2700 Welton St, Denver │ Juneteenth Music Festival Website │ Price: $ │ Top Celebration
Crowds gather for concerts and more Juneteenth festivities (photo: Juneteenth Music Festival website)
The Juneteenth Music Festival will return to Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood from June 19 – 21, 2026. 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
Multiple locations │ Visit Denver Website │ Price: $ │ Mellow Musing
RiNo galleries and other businesses join in First Friday (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
6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City │ Rocky Mountain Arsenal Website │ Price: $ │ Urban Safari
Bison roam this urban 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. It features family-friendly hikes, fishing, and an archery range, as well as 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
1000 US-36, Estes Park │ RMNP Website │ Price: $ │ Bucket List Destination
Admire soaring peaks and alpine lakes (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 in 2026, a timed entry reservation is required during select hours from late May through October. Plan ahead so you don’t miss out!
Hop on Board the Georgetown Loop Railroad
646 Loop Dr, Georgetown │ Georgetown Loop Website │ Price: $$ │ Historic Charm
Ride past river and mountain views (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
12192 Sugar Mill Rd, Longmont │ Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides Website │ Price: $$$ │ Sunrise Beauty
The balloons are as vibrant as the sunrise (photo: Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides Facebook)
Witness the Front Range from a new perspective with Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides. Sunrise flights take off from Longmont, a town roughly 45 minutes north of Denver.
Help your pilot inflate the massive balloon, then soar several thousands of feet above the plains and rocky peaks. Your photos are sure to be incredible. Back on the ground, tours end with a complimentary champagne toast. Cheers!
Tube the South Platte River and End at Breckenridge Brewery
2990 Brewery Ln, Littleton │ Adventure West Website │ Price: $$ │ Lazy River Float
It’s a calm, cool float down to the 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.
See why Denver food tours are a top-rated local experience
Join our curated restaurant tours led by friendly local guides! Denver landmarks, neighborhood stories, and a full meal included. Tours run 7 days a week. Over 5000 five-star reviews.
Go on a Whitewater Rafting Adventure Down Clear Creek
431 Chicago Creek Rd, Idaho Springs │ AVA Website │ Price: $$ │ Adrenaline Pumping
Splash down whitewater rapids on Clear Creek (photo: AVA Rafting & Zipline Facebook)
There are several places to go whitewater rafting near Denver, but Clear Creek Canyon is your closest option. Multiple outfitters like AVA and Liquid Descent are posted up here, offering tours for all ability levels.
Beginners and families with children can opt for a short, mellow float in the late summer. But if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, book a guided experience in June when the high peaks’ snowmelt creates big, challenging rapids. Don a wet suit to stay warm and know that you’re bound to get soaked on this adventure.
Fly Fish on the Arkansas River’s Gold Medal Water
107 US-24, Buena Vista │ UpRiver Fly Fishing Website │ Price: $$$ │ Serene & Slippery
Reel in trout with an expert guide (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
500 Fairgrounds Rd, Castle Rock│ Fair & Rodeo Website │ Price: $$ │ Downhome Charm
Carnival rides and games are key attractions (photo: Douglas County Fair & Rodeo Facebook)
For a hoot n’ hollerin’ good time, check out the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo from July 24 – August 2, 2026. 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
Jefferson County│ Lariat Loop Website │ Price: $ │ Motor Tour Must
A windy section of the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway (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
13785 Potomac St, Brighton│ Berry Patch Farms Website │ Price: $ │ All-Ages Fun
Fresh flowers and produce grow at this Brighton farm (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.
Make a summer afternoon memorable with our Denver Food Tours! Our guides would love to host you and highlight the best of our local dining scene.
