Eeny, meeny, miny, moe...where's the first place we should go!? There are SO many fantabulous summer destinations in Denver (and beyond) that you just about have to pencil them into your calendar to make sure you visit them all. Don't waste any time! Grab your pals, your picnic blanket, and your sense of adventure, and discover all the wonder and happiness the Mile High City has to offer!
1. Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities
The Arvada Center is celebrating 40 fantastic years of providing the people of Denver with all aspects of the arts, and their Summer Stage Concert Series is not to be missed! Experience the power of music and community in an intimate space, with acts like the Colorado Symphony, Robert Earl Keen, and more! (And check out more Mile High Outdoor Summer Concerts here!)
2. Colorado Music Hall of Fame
Located in the Trading Post at Red Rocks Park is the dynamic Colorado Music Hall of Fame, with historical artifacts and interactive exhibits highlighting music pioneers like John Denver, Judy, Collins, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Hail, hail rock and roll!
3. Ship Rock Grille
After your Hall of Fame adventures, stop off at the park's Ship Rock Grille for stunning views and scrumptious eats. Open daily for lunch from 10:30am-2:30pm, and also open for dinner to concertgoers. Time varies by show.
4. Breckenridge Summer Fun Park
If you're in the mood for breathtaking mountain scenery and joyful family activities, take a little day trip to Breck's Summer Fun Park at Peak 8, where you can indulge in mini golf, summer tubing, climbing walls, chair lift rides, and more! And almost ALL activities are safe for ages 3 and up, so it's a thrill for the whole family!
5. Green Jeep Tours
Another way to experience the Rockies on a whole new level is by taking a jeep tour, such as Green Jeep Tours through Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Travel over some of the highest roads in North America, breathe in the fresh mountain air and vista views, and catch glimpses of abundant local wildlife. And the best part? All you have to do is sit back, relax, and ride!
6. Big Soda Lake at Bear Creek Lake Park
One of the metro areas most popular destinations for swimming, boating, SUPing, and sunning is Big Soda Lake at Bear Creek Park in Lakewood. They've got a bounty of non-motorized boat rentals, picnic sites, grills, a concession stand, and even a sandy swim beach. Ah, Rocky Mountain beach life!
7. SUP GLO Night Paddle
If you're feeling extra adventurous, grab some buds and explore the Night Paddle at Chatfield State Park. "There’s no need to let the fun stop when the sun goes down-that’s when it all begins!" Make your reservation today and paddle your way to new discoveries!
8. Wheel Fun Boat Rentals
You don't even have to leave the city to get out on the water! Wheel Fun Rentals offers all sort of vessels at both Wash Park and City Park, including kayaks, pedal boats, canoes, and stand up paddle boards.
9. Wheel Fun Bike Rentals
Wheel Fun also offers five types of specialty bike rentals at Wash Park and City Park, so you can circumnavigate the lakes and green spaces in style!
10. Outdoor Summer Movies
I've said it once, and I'll say it again! There's no better way to watch a movie than on a blanket under the stars with a picnic and dear friends. See a full list of Outdoor Summer Movies here...many of which are FREE! (Pictured is the Bike-In Movie Series at the Civic Center.)
Need more activities to add to your summer bucket list? We've got you covered! You've got to see these 12 Once-In-A-Lifetime Adventures You Can Only Have In Denver or venture just outside of town for these 10 Unique Day Trips That Are An Absolute Must-Do!
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