The People’s Building
Nestled between bustling Colfax Avenue and quiet side streets sits The People’s Building. Built in 1910 as a car dealership, this historic brick building now houses a collection of small shops, galleries, studios, and eateries with an artsy, hipster vibe. Pop into Carbon Café for Intelligentsia coffee and housemade pastries before browsing vintage clothes and vinyl records at Red Letter. Grab some art supplies at The ARTery, then head upstairs to explore the studios and get your tarot cards read. With its laidback atmosphere and ever-changing tenants, The People’s Building feels like your cool aunt’s house – you never know what you’ll discover each visit.
Location: 9995 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80230
RiNo Neighborhood
The River North Art District, better known as RiNo, perfectly embodies Denver’s transformation from an Old West cowtown to a haven for street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries. Once a neglected industrial area, RiNo now boasts some of the best street art in the nation with colorful murals and eye-catching graffiti around every corner. Spend an afternoon gallery-hopping along Brighton Blvd, sampling flights at urban wineries, or stopping for island-inspired fare at Islander Food Shack. Don’t miss the popular CRUSH street art festival held each summer in RiNo.
Location: Roughly between Bright Blvd and 38th Ave from Park Ave West to the South Platte River
Downtown Aquarium
At Downtown Aquarium, families can learn about aquatic life, enjoy amusement rides, eat, shop, and more – no plane ticket required. This massive entertainment complex next to Elitch Gardens contains a public aquarium home to over 500 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Visit the stingrays and nurse sharks, then head to the aquarium’s restaurant to watch mermaids and divers perform underwater shows as you dine. An arcade, 4D theater, and on-site hotel add to the adventure. With so much to do under one sea-themed roof, Downtown Aquarium is one of Denver’s quirkiest family attractions.
Location: 700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211
Clyfford Still Museum
Dedicated solely to the work of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still, this sleek museum houses the most comprehensive collection of Still’s work in the world. Still himself stipulated that his work must be exhibited in a standalone museum after his death, leading to the 2011 opening of this building just steps from the Denver Art Museum. Touring the galleries, you’ll gain an immersive understanding of Still’s evolution and influence on modern art through over 3,000 pieces created between 1920 and 1980. Don’t miss the on-site archives where you can learn even more about Still’s life and creative process.
Location: 1250 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Located in the heart of LoDo, MCA Denver brings innovative contemporary art to the Mile High City through a broad range of exhibitions, events, and educational programs. The angular, metal-clad building designed by architect David Adjaye holds five galleries filled with constantly changing installations of modern works across media. Many exhibitions and events center on today’s most pressing social issues, encouraging dialogue about topics like racial justice, climate change, and mental health through the lens of contemporary art. The rooftop café and reading room invite further reflection.
Location: 1485 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202
Denver Rock Drill
What was once an actual rock drill factory now houses a sprawling, multi-level bar and live music venue with a delightfully gritty vibe. At Denver Rock Drill in the artsy River North neighborhood, catch local bands in the intimate stage area, challenge friends to a game of ping pong, or sip craft cocktails on the patio filled with funky furniture and twinkling lights. On weekends, expect DJs spinning energetic sets perfect for dancing the night away. From tasty bar bites to the street art adorning every wall, Denver Rock Drill embodies the edgy, industrial-chic style of RiNo.
Location: 1735 19th St, Denver, CO 80202
Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens
For a truly magical winter experience, stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens’ annual Blossoms of Light display. Every year from mid-November through January 1st, the gardens transform into a glittering winter wonderland complete with trees swathed in colorful lights, illuminated sculptures, and artistic light displays. Warm up with hot chocolate as you wind through rooms themed like a crystal cave or walk under dancing arches of light. With timed tickets and admission ranges, Blossoms of Light makes experiencing the gardens’ beauty easy and affordable.
Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
The Source
This repurposed foundry building in RiNo now houses a market hall with artisan shops and some of Denver’s hottest restaurants all under one roof. Grab an acai bowl from Ka’tiki, peruse Colorado-made goods at a dozen boutiques, sample craft beer at Crooked Stave, or tuck into farm-fresh fare at Acorn. With lively evening events and a beautiful central courtyard, The Source gives off fun, communal vibes in an uber-hip setting.
Location: 3350 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216
Molly Brown House Museum
Gain insight into Denver’s romantic mining past at the former home of Margaret “Molly” Brown, who survived the 1912 Titanic disaster. Costumed guides lead tours through the lovely Victorian house in Capitol Hill, regaling stories of Margaret’s rags-to-riches tale, activism for women’s rights, and flair for parties. Wander through the plush interiors, peek in family bedrooms, and take in the ornate decor she enjoyed after striking it rich.
Location: 1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203
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