As companies begin hiring again, you may consider relocating to Denver. It is a great city where you can take advantage of the outdoors, especially since businesses are still remote. Regardless of how you end up in the great Rocky Mountains, we want to offer some suggestions on things to do that will keep you busy as you transition during an unusual year. The effects of coronavirus are still here, but there are tons of socially distanced activities to do!
Things to do when you’re feeling adventurous:
- Hiking. Our team recommends downloading the AllTrails app, where you can find countless trails that vary in difficulty and location. You can also check out reviews and pictures from others who have already completed the hikes you are thinking of doing! If you are a more experienced hiker, you may consider climbing a 14er. There are 58 challenging peaks in Colorado that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation to hike!
- Scenic Drives. As we transition into fall, the leaves will be changing. If you want to enjoy nature from your car, Golden Gate State Park is a great place to start. This state park has numerous trails and campsites as well!
- National Parks. There are 4 national parks in Colorado. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Colorado and only a 2-hour drive from Denver. Another popular one is the Great Sand Dunes National Park where you can ‘surf’ or sled down the mountains of sand!
- Skiing & Snowboarding. Despite everything going on, resorts are planning to open in the winter for ski season. There are countless mountains only a day trip away where you can escape to a winter wonderland!
Things to do for a low-key weekend:
- Brunch/Dinner at a new restaurant. There are always new restaurants and bars popping up around Denver. Many have eclectic vibes and great patios where you can still socially distance and enjoy a delicious meal!
- Farmer’s Market. Almost every neighborhood in Denver has a farmer’s market where you can shop locally, have a cup of coffee, and stroll around a new area! It is a great way to pick up some fresh produce as you prepare for the week.
- Botanic Gardens. Check out the gorgeous 23-acre park that contains themed gardens, a conservatory, and an amphitheater.
- Explore a park. One of the greatest things about Denver is the number of parks in the city. Here, you can stroll around, have a picnic, or take part in outdoor yoga classes! A few of our favorites are Wash Park, Sloan’s Lake, and Cheeseman Park.
- Red Rocks Amphitheater. Just a short drive to Morrison, Red Rocks is a huge tourist attraction. Although concerts were canceled this year, you can still explore the park, enjoy films, and attend fitness events!
- Cherry Creek Reservoir. We may be close to the mountains, but if you’re looking for water activities, Cherry Creek Reservoir is just one of the many reservoirs and lakes where you can swim, go paddleboarding, kayak, and spend time near the water.
Places to explore when you want to get out of the city:
- Boulder. Home to the University of Colorado (sko buffs!), this college town has a charming mix of outdoor activities, hippie vibes, and trendy bars/restaurants. Be sure to check out Royal Arch Trail and shop around Pearl Street!
- Colorado Springs. Just south of Denver, you can explore Manitou Springs, Garden of the Gods park, and a few nearby hot springs.
- Golden. Because it is near the mountains, Golden is a popular destination to enjoy a beer after a hike or trail run. There are tons of breweries with gorgeous views of the front range!
- Fort Collins. A charming downtown, great breweries, and a day at Horsetooth Reservoir is the perfect place to explore a new city in Colorado.
- Mountain Towns. Each mountain town is unique. We recommend that you pick a town one weekend to escape from the city.
We hope this guide provides you with a packed to-do list for your first couple of months in Denver. Before you know it, you’ll become a regular at a few favorite spots and never want to leave the city our team calls home!
