Denver is truly a city for all seasons, and winter is an especially magical time to visit the Mile High City. While our hiking, skiing, and snowboarding are world-renowned, there’s no shortage of other ways to experience Denver’s charm in the colder months.
Here are some of our favorite recommendations for enjoying the city when the temperatures drop.
Each winter, countless outdoor enthusiasts flock to Denver seeking access to some of the planet's most exceptional skiing destinations. Our city serves as the perfect launching point for those ready to click into their skis and head up the chairlift, thanks to our convenient location near these renowned slopes. Whatever type of terrain you prefer or how advanced your abilities, you'll likely find your perfect run here. Be sure to experience iconic destinations like Breckenridge, Vail, Copper Mountain and Winter Park while you're in the area.
As promised, Denver's hiking trails are truly remarkable. While trail exploration is incredible throughout all seasons, winter hiking offers a uniquely magical outdoor adventure. You'll find numerous excellent trails throughout the metropolitan area, so grab your hiking boots, trekking poles and trail mix. For winter hiking enthusiasts, favorite destinations include Elk Meadow Park, Red Rocks Park, Castlewood Canyon State Park, and Rocky Mountain State Park.
Discover Denver's outdoor splendor beyond the slopes and trails, where urban adventure meets natural beauty. Denver Botanical Gardens is the crown jewel of the city's outdoor attractions, dazzling visitors year-round with its 24 acres of meticulously curated landscapes. Here, you can wander through serene Japanese gardens, marvel at exotic tropical conservatories, and explore North America's largest collection of cold-hardy cacti. Come winter, the gardens transform into a wonderland during the annual Blossoms of Light Festival. Don’t miss Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo, where you’ll discover three million lights spread over 80 acres. Downtown, the historic Civic Center Park becomes a winter playground with its enchanting ice rink, where you can glide beneath the city lights with the majestic Colorado State Capitol as your backdrop. For more outdoor pursuits, rent a bike from Denver Bicycle and cruise the 42-mile Cherry Creek Trail, or join locals at Washington Park. Denver's 300 days of sunshine make outdoor exploration irresistible in every season.
Looking to take in some artistic inspiration? This holiday season, the Denver skyline will come alive with the inaugural Mile High Drone Show. For 40 magical nights (Nov. 22 through Dec. 31, 2024), 400 drones will soar into the sky at 7pm, creating breathtaking holiday-themed animations. The drone show will launch in various locations, including the Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and Ball Arena. You can also catch the show before Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche games. Denver’s local museums also offer locals and visitors alike a wide variety of arts exposure. You’ll want to check out the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the Denver Art Museum, Molly Brown House, Denver Aquarium, and the Children’s Museum of Denver while you’re here.
Discover the magic of Denver’s premier holiday market Nov. 22 through Dec. 31! Located on Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North, the market is open daily through Christmas Eve for the 2024 Season. Visitors can shop with dozens of hand-picked vendors, then head on over to the Mistletoe Lounge to kick back and enjoy refreshments with family and friends.
Embark on a culinary adventure near Union Station, where an array of exceptional restaurants awaits discerning food lovers. For an unforgettable Italian experience, Jovanina's Broken Italian enchants with its underground wine cellar and house-made pasta, while the acclaimed Tavernetta offers sophisticated Italian fare worthy of its James Beard recognition. Craving panoramic city views with your Mediterranean small plates? El Five's rooftop setting delivers breathtaking vistas alongside innovative fusion cuisine. Seafood enthusiasts shouldn't miss Jax Fish House and Oyster Bar, where fresh ocean treasures are served daily in a vibrant atmosphere. For a more casual yet equally delicious experience, Denver Milk Market presents a food hall-sized feast of options under one roof, from fresh-made pizza to artisanal ice cream. Thirsty Lion gastropub perfectly balances craft beers with elevated pub fare, while JINYA Ramen Bar satisfies with soul-warming bowls of authentic Japanese ramen, each broth simmered to perfection for 20 hours. Looking for a cozy cocktail? Seven Grand Whiskey Bar is a charming winter retreat, exuding an inviting ambiance. With an impressive selection of over 700 whiskeys and seasonal cocktails infused with comforting spices, it’s certain to satisfy. Whether you're seeking an intimate fine dining experience or a casual meal bursting with local flavor, Denver offers a tantalizing array of options.
Step into Denver's magnificent living room at The Oxford’s home of Union Station, where historic grandeur meets modern urban energy. This beautifully restored 1914 Beaux-Arts landmark isn't just a transit hub — it's a destination that captures the soul of the Mile High City. Beneath soaring 65-foot ceilings and dazzling chandeliers, you'll discover an eclectic mix of local flavors and experiences. Enjoy fine dining courtesy of James Beard Award-winning chef Jennifer Jasinski at Ultreia, indulge in farm-to-table comfort food at Snooze Eatery, or sip craft cocktails at the elegant Terminal Bar, housed in the station's original ticket windows. Browse Colorado-made gifts at 5 Green Boxes, or simply sink into a leather sofa in the Great Hall, where the original wooden benches have been thoughtfully repurposed into an inviting community space. Whether you're catching a train to the mountains or seeking Denver's coolest gathering spot, Union Station delivers an authentic slice of both historic and contemporary Colorado culture.