10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Denver Before You Die
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R. Phillips
Author
Our massive Mile High metropolis is home to an innumerable amount of amazing attractions, and it’s often hard to choose which ones to explore on our free evenings and weekends. But we’ve made it a little easier for you by coming up with 10 Denver hidden gems everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. From museums and bookstores to watering holes and western wear, here are some unforgettable urban Mile High treasures that promise fun for visitors and locals alike.
1. The Big Blue Bear
Big Blue Bear, 750-776 14th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
"I See What You Mean" by artist Lawrence Argent is a true jewel of Downtown Denver that induces a sense of wonder and delight in all who encounter it. You can find this fantastically whimsical 40-foot-tall bright blue bear peering into the Colorado Convention Center at 700 14th Street.
Travel to Denver, in this video with Phey’s Travel Time, to see the Big Blue Bear in downtown Denver:
Travel to Denver, in this video with Phey’s Travel Time, to see the Big Blue Bear in downtown Denver:
2. Tattered Cover Book Store
Tattered Cover Book Store & Café Colfax, 2526 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, USA
The incomparable Tattered Cover is an independently owned book store and cafe that's been "Bringing People and Books Together Since 1971 and is most certainly a tried and true Denver landmark. Their locations on Colfax and in LoDo have been community hubs for decades and provide a perfect place to gather with friends for coffee and conversation or to simply find a cozy nook for reading and relaxation.
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3. Larimer Square Historic District
Larimer Square Historic District, Denver, CO 80202, USA
The quaintly charming Larimer Square is Denver's oldest and most historic city block and a prime location for strolling, sipping, and shopping. Larimer Street became the city's main street in 1861, shortly after General Larimer founded Denver City on November 22, 1858, and today it boasts a bounty of restaurants, shops, and bars that cater to visitors and locals alike.
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4. Rockmount Ranch Wear
Rockmount Ranch Wear Mfg Co, 1626 Wazee St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Just a stone's throw from Larimer Square on Wazee Street is another one-of-a-kind Denver landmark that everyone should experience. "Papa Jack" Weil founded this third-generation family business back in 1946 and worked every day of his life until his passing at the ripe old age of 107. He was a true pioneer of Western fashion who founded the original snap shirt and put out the first commercially produced bolo ties. As Papa Jack said, "The West is not a place. It is a state of mind."
5. Downtown Denver
Mile Highers are often proclaiming that they "never" go Downtown or even "avoid it like the plague," but frankly, we think that is a crying shame because there is SO much to see and do, especially if you explore on foot. From Union Station and Coors Field to the Theatre District and Civic Center Park, there are hundreds - if not thousands - of museums, attractions, eateries, bars, and shops in which to while away the hours. Go on and be a tourist in your town!
Learn about a few things to do in downtown Denver in this video from Travel Lemming:
Learn about a few things to do in downtown Denver in this video from Travel Lemming:
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6. The Cruise Room
The Oxford Hotel, 1600 17th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
The historic Cruise Room, located at 1659 Wazee Street in the Oxford Hotel, is renowned both for being Denver's oldest post-prohibition bar and for making a mean martini. This upscale Art Deco establishment was modeled after a lounge on the Queen Mary and promises a cocktail experience totally unique to the Mile High City.
7. Clyfford Still Museum
Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204, USA
The Clyfford Still Museum is a once-in-a-lifetime Denver experience that you won't find anywhere else in the nation - or the world for that matter. The jaw-dropping 28,500-square-foot building was designed specifically to showcase Still's work, 95% of which is in the museum's possession - an unprecedented phenomenon in the art world. The sleek, smooth architecture and the quality of natural light afforded by the structure's perforated concrete ceiling are subtle yet powerful and create an air of tranquility throughout the space that is nearly as lovely as Still's work itself. (Pro Tip: The museum has several free days on select days throughout the year and will be implementing eight "Pay-What-You-Wish Days" in 2024) The Clyfford Still Museum is located at 1250 Bannock Street, directly behind the ever-popular Denver Art Museum.
8. The ART Hotel & FIRE
The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1201 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203, USA
After you get your fill of awe-inspiring art at the museum's Downtown, check out the superbly eclectic ART Hotel at 12th and Broadway, which boasts stunning decor and a fabulous rooftop lounge and restaurant with cozy fire pits, killer cocktails, mouthwatering munchies, and phenomenal views of the urban landscape. There are plenty of unique places to stay in Colorado - the ART Hotel is certainly one of them.
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9. Art District on Santa Fe
Art District on Santa Fe, 858 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, USA
Every first Friday of the month, the charming Art District on Santa Fe hosts First Friday Art Walks from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., featuring the largest concentration of art galleries and specialty shops in Colorado, with 60 participating artists studios, galleries, and restaurants. (Pro Tip: FREE guided shuttle buses pick up at the light rail station at 10th Avenue and Osage Street and ferry guests around the Art District.)
10. The Denver Central Market
The Denver Central Market, 2669 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
One of Denver's newest and brightest community hubs is the Central Market, located in the historic 1928 H.H. Tammen building on the corner of 27th and Larimer in RiNo. Denver's Central Market is a "one-stop culinary shop," which houses a local butcher, fish market, bakery, bodega, chocolatier, pizzeria, and more!
Check out the Denver Central Market in this video from Properties By Cory:
Check out the Denver Central Market in this video from Properties By Cory:
Which of these Denver hidden gems have you experienced? Share a few more of your favorites with us in a comment. Then, check out this hidden resort near Denver that’s the perfect place to get away from it all. Denver is also one of the biggest craft beer meccas in the US. If you enjoy a pint or two, try this craft beer tour in Denver.
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More to Explore
Denver Hidden Gems
What are the best hidden gems in Denver?
Denver is well-known as a fun and entertaining city with plenty of fun activities to keep one busy. There are also some interesting places to explore that you may not be aware of. Here are a few of the best best hidden gems in Denver:
- Lakeside Amusement Park: The Lakeside Amusement Park is a hidden gem for history buffs because it is the oldest amusement park in Colorado. It opened its doors in 1908 to the amazement of thrill-seekers all across the state. After all of these years, it is still bringing smiles to guests who love a little adventure. If you are looking for hidden things to do in Denver, a trip to this historic amusement park is in order.
- Wild Animal Sanctuary: Did you know you can walk right past lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) right here in Denver? Unlike your typical zoo, the wildlife sanctuary gives you a chance to see these incredible creatures in a more natural habitat. As you walk along an elevated walkway right through the park, you'll be able to spot some of your favorite big cats, wolves, and bears that were rescued from sometimes unsavory conditions to find a new wide-open home.
- Dunafon Castle: This ancient (if you consider 1941 as ancient) castle is located on a peninsula with stunning views of Bear Creek. Even though it isn't as old as a Medieval castle it sure feels like one. Dunafon Castle makes for a magical setting for a wedding or simply an interesting place to explore with its hiking, walking, and mountain biking trails on its 17 acres of land. With elaborate garden grounds, three private trout ponds, and even a functioning water wheel that was originally used to generate electricity, this delightful hidden gem is definitely worth a visit.