The Best Ways to Enjoy a Denver Summer

Summer is Here — Get Out and Enjoy It

Welcome to The Oxford Hotel, your hospitable home base for exploring the vibrant city of Denver during the summer months. As LoDo comes alive with exciting energy, we've curated a list of the best ways to make the most of your Denver getaway. From world-class dining to unique shopping experiences, captivating arts and entertainment venues to refreshing outdoor activities, let us guide you through the ultimate Denver summer adventure.Welcome to The Oxford Hotel, your hospitable home base for exploring the vibrant city of Denver during the summer months. As LoDo comes alive with exciting energy, we've curated a list of the best ways to make the most of your Denver getaway. From world-class dining to unique shopping experiences, captivating arts and entertainment venues to refreshing outdoor activities, let us guide you through the ultimate Denver summer adventure.

Indulge in Denver's Culinary Scene

Denver's food scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. Start your culinary journey at Urban Farmer, a modern steakhouse that celebrates the bounty of Colorado's ranches and farms. For a taste of the Middle East, head to Safta, where James Beard Award-winning chef Alon Shaya serves up Mediterranean dishes in a bright, airy space. Seafood lovers won't want to miss Stoic & Genuine, offering the freshest oysters and fish in the heart of The Oxford’s home, Union Station. Perched high above the LoHi neighborhood, El Five is must-visit, delivering breathtaking views alongside pan-Mediterranean cuisine.

Tavernetta brings the rich flavors of Italy to Denver, while Beckon offers an intimate chef's counter experience with ever-changing tasting menus. Bruto is the place to go for handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. At Mercantile Dining & Provision, diners enjoy elevated comfort food in a market-inspired setting. Water Grill is where to be for premium seafood and an extensive raw bar, while Wildflower offers a seasonally-inspired menu in a beautiful, plant-filled space. Sunday Vinyl offers a unique wine bar and restaurant experience with a curated vinyl playlist. Finally — don't miss Uchi, where award-winning sushi is just part of the innovative Japanese cuisine  that is offered.

Raise a Glass at Denver's Best Bars

Denver's bar scene is as diverse as its landscape. Start underground at Run For The Roses, a cocktail lounge inspired by the Kentucky Derby. Visit The Cooper Lounge in nearby Union Station for a shot of old-world elegance. Then, step back in time at The Cruise Room, an Art Deco marvel and Denver's first post-Prohibition bar. At Death & Co., expect meticulously crafted cocktails in a sleek, modern setting. Head to the rooftop Reynard Social to experience panoramic city views and savor a sip. Williams & Graham, disguised as a bookstore, offers a speakeasy experience with exceptional cocktails. Family Jones Spirit House distills their own spirits on-site, while whiskey aficionados will appreciate the extensive selection at Seven Grand. 

Caffeinate at Denver's Best Coffee Shops

Start your day right with Denver's excellent coffee scene. Pigtrain Coffee Co. in Union Station offers locally roasted beans and house-made syrups. The Wild serves coffee in a space filled with light and soothing plants. Hello Darling combines a nail salon with a chic coffee bar, while Little Owl Coffee focuses on perfectly pulled espresso shots. Amante Coffee brings Italian-style java culture to the Mile High City. You’ll find Scandinavian-inspired minimalism and great coffee at Kaffe Landskap. Huckleberry Roasters serves ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee in a cozy setting, while Blue Sparrow Coffee specializes in featuring a rotating selection of roasters from around the world in an intimate space.

Explore Denver's Iconic Landmarks

No visit to Denver is complete without seeing its iconic landmarks. Tour the Colorado State Capitol, easily recognizable by its gold-plated dome. Stop by the United States Mint to learn about the production of American currency and coins. The Daniels & Fisher Tower, once part of a grand department store, now stands as a 360-foot-tall clock tower offering tours and panoramic views. Admire the Italian Renaissance style of the Equitable Building, one of Denver's first skyscrapers. And of course, don't forget to explore the rich history of The Oxford Hotel itself, a Denver landmark since 1891.

Relax in Denver's Beautiful Parks

Take advantage of Denver's 300 days of sunshine by exploring its many parks. Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, offers walking trails and a kayak chute. City Park is Denver's largest, and features lakes, playgrounds, and the Denver Zoo. Cheesman Park offers a peaceful retreat with a neoclassical pavilion and stunning mountain views. Washington Park (or "Wash Park" to locals) includes two lakes, flower gardens, and ample space for picnics and outdoor activities.

Upscale Retail Relaxation

Denver's shopping scene offers a wide variety of treasures. Start at The Vintage Label for uniquely curated vintage finds. On the hunt for high-end fashion? Visit A Line Boutique, featuring designer labels and personalized styling services. Book lovers will adore Tattered Cover, an iconic independent bookstore with multiple locations throughout the city. Looking for variety? Stroll through historic Larimer Square, lined with boutique shops and restaurants in beautifully preserved Victorian buildings. Cherry Creek Mall offers a classic mall experience, with over 160 shops and restaurants.

Free Market Denver showcases a rotating selection of innovative brands and pop-up experiences. Cowboy up at Lucchese Bootmaker, crafting premium leather boots since 1883. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the massive REI flagship store, housed in a beautifully restored historic building. Explore the eclectic shops along Tennyson Street, or visit Garbarini for a curated selection of contemporary fashion. Nature enthusiasts in the market for outdoor gear will want to check out Arc’teryx and Topo Designs. AETHER Apparel also offers stylish outerwear perfect for Colorado adventures. Finally, gentlemen seeking bespoke suits and accessories should visit Homer Reed Ltd., a Denver haberdashery since 1951.

Immerse Yourself in Arts & Entertainment

Denver's cultural scene is thriving, with something for everyone. Jazz enthusiasts should head to Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club for live music and inspired cuisine. The Denver Art Museum's extensive collection spans centuries and continents, housed in an architectural marvel that’s a work of art itself. Just outside the city, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre offers a legendary outdoor concert experience in an acoustically perfect natural sandstone arena. Nature lovers should visit the Denver Botanic Gardens — featuring 24 acres of stunning plants and flowers — which is perfect for a serene summertime stroll.

Laugh the night away at Comedy Works, featuring both national acts and local talent. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts hosts Broadway shows, plays, and musical performances in multiple venues. Contemporary art lovers won’t want to miss the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, which showcases thought-provoking exhibitions in a stunning building.

Sports fans can catch a Colorado Rockies game at Coors Field, cheer on the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena, or join the sea of orange at Empower Field at Mile High for a Denver Broncos game. Season ticket holders score 20% off their stay!

Discover Denver at The Oxford

As you plan your Denver summer adventure, remember that The Oxford Hotel is perfectly situated to help you make the most of everything the city has to offer. Our knowledgeable team is always ready to assist with recommendations and reservations, ensuring your stay is as memorable as the Mile High City itself. Welcome to summer in Denver. We can't wait to help you explore!