Folks looking to explore Colorado should consider Denver as their home base. This metropolis offers all the big-city amenities with easy access to nature’s splendors.
But if you thought the Mile High City was just an urban jungle, think again.
Today, we’re digging into the best day trips around Denver that are worth the journey.
Let’s hit it!
Why Explore the Denver Area?
Over 700,000 people call Denver home. With 4,000 acres of public parks and 850 miles of paved multi-use trails, the city has one of the largest urban park systems in the US. It’s no wonder even outdoor enthusiasts flock to the metropolitan Mile High City.
While Denver has plenty of attractions, such as museums, aquariums, public art, and a world-class restaurant scene, the real excitement starts once you leave downtown.
Once you’ve soaked up the city’s vibes, take to the outskirts to realign with nature and see what else the area has to offer. We don’t think you’ll regret it!
Best Day Trips Near Denver
The city’s proximity to the continental divide means you’re never far from striking scenery. From the rugged rocky mountains to the Desert Southwest, you’ll have plenty to explore on countless day trips from Denver. Here are a few picks to consider.
#1 Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
About 20 minutes from downtown Denver is one of the most esteemed music venues in the country. In fact, Red Rocks Amphitheatre was voted the highest-grossing and most-attended venue on the planet. It’s hosted everyone from opera singers in the early 1900s to more modern acts like The String Cheese Incident, Pretty Lights, and the Lumineers.
However, you don’t have to attend a show to enjoy the magical landscape. The park surrounding the venue features hiking and biking trails that weave through the massive sandstone outcroppings. On a clear day, you can see for 200 miles across the panoramic vista.
Be sure to stop by the visitor center to explore the Red Rocks Hall of Fame or grab a bite to eat at Ship Rock Grille.
Of course, you won’t want to miss your chance to experience live music at Red Rocks. If you can also score tickets to a show, we suggest making it a priority!
Want more Denver fun? Here are Five Famous Movie Locations in the City!
#2 Wild Animal Sanctuary
While Dinosaur Ridge is the ultimate place to see evidence of long-extinct creatures, you’ll want to visit Keenesburg’s Wild Animal Sanctuary to get a look at some of the living ones. Located 30 miles from Denver, this is a great day trip for the whole family.
Stroll the world’s longest elevated walkway and admire more than 750 creatures, including lions, bears, tigers, yaks, alpacas, and much more.
It’s important to note that this isn’t a zoo. In fact, all the animals here were rescued from captivity. The center provides rehabilitation and a safe place for them to live the rest of their lives. However, the 9,684-acre complex offers a glimpse into the world of these creatures.
After taking in the sights and sounds, you can also grab lunch at the Lion’s Den Cafe or a tasty treat from the ice cream shop.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the center, they can’t accommodate pets, including service animals.
Check out the Best Free Campsites Near Denver!
#3 Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Our next Denver day trip will take you further from the city, but we think it’ll be worth the trek. About an hour and a half from the city, you’ll find Paint Mines Interpretive Park. This incredible spot in El Paso County is the geological embodiment of Colorful Colorado.
Indigenous Americans occupied this land 9,000 years ago. They collected the vibrant clay to make pottery and paints ranging from deep purple to bright yellow hues.
Today, the park comprises 750 acres of sandstone formations, hoodoos, and gullies of jasper and selenite clay. A four-mile trail meanders through the otherworldly spires. You’ll need to bring plenty of water and your own sun protection, as there’s very little shade on the property. Be aware that pets are not allowed due to the fragile ecosystem.
#4 Dinosaur Ridge
Just east of Red Rocks is another natural wonder worth seeing. Plus, it’s only about 20 minutes from Denver, making it a great day trip destination!
Dinosaur Ridge is part of the Morrison-Golden Fossil Areas National Natural Landmark. Here, you can see the ancient footprints of these colossal creatures carved into the land.
Two main trails traverse the property and feature tons of fossil evidence. Triceratops Trail is about 1.5 miles long and takes around one hour to complete. Along the way, you’ll see plant impressions in sandstone walls, as well as the footprints of dinosaurs, birds, and insects that lived nearly 70 million years ago.
The main attraction is the Dinosaur Ridge Trail, a paved track where the first Stegosaurus fossil was discovered. You’ll encounter 15 fossil sites and hundreds of footprints. Give yourself a couple of hours to take in all the history along this path.
Pro Tip: If you can’t make it here in person, check out the virtual experience on the official Dinosaur Ridge website.
#5 Idaho Springs Historic District
The final Denver day trip on our list highlights Colorado’s more recent past. Idaho Springs was once a thriving mining town. In fact, it was the heart of the state’s gold rush in the 1800s.
The Idaho Springs Historic District features boutiques, galleries, and restaurants housed in original Victorian buildings. You can tour the Argo Gold Mine and Mill to see what life was like in the boomtown days or explore the Heritage Museum and Visitor Center for an in-depth look at this historic destination.
However, Idaho Springs offers plenty of modern amenities, too. During the summer months, you can stroll the Miner Street Market to peruse handcrafted goods, sip locally-made ciders, or enjoy dinner al fresco. Take a dip in the healing waters of Indian Hot Springs or zipline through the trees.
There’s plenty to do on a day trip, especially since it’s only about 20 miles from Denver.
Sip your favorite beverage out of these etched glasses featuring a map of downtown Denver!
Denver’s Day Trips Will Keep You Coming Back for More
Denver’s many day trips ensure you won’t run out of ways to explore the area any time soon. From mega music venues to relics of the ancient past, there’s something for everyone within a short drive of the city.
The next time you head to Denver, be sure to schedule a day or two to enjoy the nearby sights. There’s a lot to explore, and you won’t want to miss out on these epic experiences!
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