Attractions Nearby Denver, Day Trips and Excursions

(Denver, Colorado - CO, USA)

Denver makes a convenient base from which to explore the surrounding countryside and join in with the locals in any number of outdoor activities, events and attractions. The outdoor lifestyle in the Denver area is a staple of Colorado living and one of the reasons for the state's popularity, especially among young professionals.

A short drive to the west of Denver are the magical Rocky Mountains and the famous ski resorts of Vail and Aspen, as well as a whole host of summer activities. To the north of Denver is the exciting city of Boulder, while to the south lies historic Colorado Springs. In between there is much to explore, including national parks, old mining towns, canyons, valleys and numerous historic monuments.

Buffalo Bill's Museum and Grave

Address: 987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Road, Golden, Colorado CO, 80401, USA
Tel: +1 303 526 0747
Thirty minutes west of downtown Denver on the summit of Lookout Mountain lies the grave of William F. Cody, or Buffalo Bill as he is more commonly known. As a personification of the Wild West, Buffalo Bill herded cattle, worked wagon trains, went gold mining and rode in the Pony Express. His Wild West shows toured the globe and helped to invent the image of the Wild West that is still common today and has been made famous by Hollywood. The museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Buffalo Bill's era and his shows.
Open hours: May to October, daily - 09:00 to 17:00, November to April, Tuesday to Sunday - 09:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six free

Denver Mountain Parks

Tel: +1 303 697 4545
The city operates an excellent network of 31 parks and 16 wilderness areas surrounding Denver, all of which are popular outdoor recreation sites for locals and visitors alike. These areas have been developed since 1913 and people of all ages can enjoy various activities such as hiking, cycling, bird watching, fishing, picnicking or simply escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Open hours: year-round
Admission: free

Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center

Address: 6252 West 104th Avenue, Westminster, Colorado CO, 80020, USA
Tel: +1 303 469 5441
To the north of Denver on the way to Boulder lies this fascinating tropical forest in a conservatory home to over 1,200 free-flying butterflies. The insect center contains exotic specimens from around the world as well as local varieties, with some available for touching and up-close examinations. Sure to fascinate the kids (and perhaps scare the smaller ones) are the giant robotic insects and other interactive exhibits.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00, an hour later during the summer
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors and children, children under two free

Dinosaur Ridge

Address: 16831 West Alameda Parkway, Morrison, Colorado CO, 80465, USA
Tel: +1 303 697 3466
Dinosaur Ridge is the site of important dinosaur fossil discoveries made in the late 19th century and remains one of the world's best known fossil localities. Famous dinosaur skeletons, such as the stegosaurus and the allosaurus were discovered here, as well as distinct dinosaur tracks, called trace fossils. The site enjoys National Natural Landmark status and remains a Mecca for dinosaur enthusiasts, students, researchers and the general public.
Open hours: Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00
Admission: free, donations welcome

Idaho Springs

Address: Idaho Springs, Colorado CO, 80452, USA
A popular side trip west of Denver is this historic gold mining town of Idaho Springs, where visitors can try their hand at gold panning, learn about the town's past and the history of gold mining at the museums, tour traditional gold mines and explore the Victorian-era downtown complete with the largest waterwheel in Colorado. The surrounding parks and national forests, including Mount Evans, are well worth checking out while you're here.
Open hours: all year
Admission: free, charges may apply for museums and tours

Red Rocks Amphitheater

Address: 16351 County Road 93, Morrison, Colorado CO, 80465, USA
Tel: +1 303 295 4444
Located 15 miles / 24 km west of Denver is this stunning naturally formed amphitheater in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. High red sandstone walls complemented by the lights of Denver in the distance, make the Red Rocks Amphitheater one of the country's best and most spectacular concert venues, which has been host to performances by some of history's greatest musicians and the world's best orchestras. The park is also a popular hiking destination, with impressive scenery.
Open hours: all year
Admission: free, charge may apply for concerts or events

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Address: 4218 Fremont County Road 3A, Canon City, Colorado CO, 81215, USA
Tel: +1 719 275 7507
Two hours from Denver in the Pikes Peak region southwest of Colorado Springs lies this hugely popular park and entertainment venue. The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is home to the world's highest suspension bridge, with breathtaking views of the deep gorge and the world's longest single-span aerial tram. Other attractions at the park include dozens of amusement park rides, shows, a wildlife park and numerous outdoor activities.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 18:00 (seasonal variations apply)
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors and children, children under three free

Tiny Town

Address: 6249 So Turkey Creek Road, Morrison, Colorado CO, 80465, USA
Tel: +1 303 697 6829
Located 30 minutes from downtown Denver and nestled in a picturesque mountain canyon is this unique attraction consisting of over 100 one-sixth sized buildings and a famous steam railway. Opened in 1915, Tiny Town is a cherished village and now a Colorado icon, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
Open hours: daily, Memorial Day to Labor Day - 10:00 to 17:00, weekends during May, September and October.
Admission: charge, discounts for children, children under two free