15 Cool Things to Do in Denver This Spring
From taking art classes to relaxing at a beer spa, make these activities your spring must-dos.
Now that we’ve survived at least one false spring and a second winter, April means we’re one step closer to all the fun that happens in the warm Denver sunshine. The weather in Denver is temperamental, so locals mark spring's arrival other ways (the opening of farmers markets, the Rockies getting back on the field, and the moment they can trust that dinner and drinks on a patio without a jacket won't ruin the evening). But there’s so much more going on in the Mile High for the spring season, from special shows at the Denver Performing Arts Complex to festivals and fiestas unique to our city. If you’re looking for interesting things to do between now and summertime, start with these cool ways to spend your free time in Denver.
Multiple locations
With all the breweries in Denver, it can be hard to pick a place to grab a pint and enjoy some sunshine and cornhole. Want to sample a little more than just what one spot has to offer? Sign up for one of Denver’s craft beer tours to visit several breweries, sip local brews, and learn a little history or some fun Denver facts along the way. Our favorite, the RiNo Beer and Graffiti tour, takes you on a stroll around Denver’s artsiest district to check out a ton of street art as you sip.
Central Business District
There’s always an interesting performance happening at the Denver Center for Performing Arts, but the next couple months sees literary and movie favorites come to life on Denver’s big stage. From Anastasia in April to The Color Purple through May, you can experience your beloved characters in a whole new way.
Highlands
If you simply can’t get enough iced coffee, rest assured that you can feed your fix with a flight at Grounds for Dismissal. Embrace the warm weather and cure caffeine jitters with four flavored coffees of your choosing. Let’s be honest though: We know you didn’t stop ordering iced throughout winter.
Golden Triangle
Denver’s Cinco de Mayo celebration in Civic Center Park will include taco-eating contests, chihuahua races, live performances, food vendors. Join in on the fiesta and kick off the warmer months with good eats, lots of dancing, and a good party all around.
Sun Valley
Every year, barbecue fans and pitmasters from around the country descend on Empower Field at Mile High Stadium for sunshine and smoked meats. Have your fill of ribs, brisket, burnt ends, and wings — dry rubbed or slathered in sauce — from Denver’s own backyard or from faraway barbecue meccas in Missouri, Mississippi, and Texas. Chow down while listening to live music, and settle in for a day of food and fun.
Ballpark
Spring has sprung, which means one thing: It’s baseball season once again. Don’t fret if you missed opening day, as there are plenty of games to catch over the next few months, whether from the Rock Pile or right behind home plate. Pick your favorite ballpark treat and settle in for America’s favorite pastime —and Colorado’s favorite team.
Play big games at Bierstadt Lagerhaus
RiNo
If you haven’t yet visited this sprawling space shared by both a brewery and a winery, now is as good a time as ever. Known for thirst-quenching brews and menu of German bites, Bierstadt also draws crowds for the giant Jenga, giant pong, and array of classic pinball machines. Let your competitive side shine while you sip lagers under a myriad of string lights, listen to live music play, and feel utter joy at discovering your new favorite watering hole.
Lincoln Park
The newest, coolest concept to hit Denver is a sensory experience like no other. ESP HiFi, a Japanese-style listening bar that’s main focus is audio, plays curated music and sounds at optimized levels in a way that hits you in just the right way. Go there to relax, work, or have quality conversations without feeling the need to shout over speakers. Come in the morning for coffee and tea; stay through the evening for a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Grab a friend and make a candle or three
RiNo
Grab a few close friends and head to Paddywax Candle Bar for the perfect crafting hang. Choose your own candle vessel and scent, and then enjoy the fun of hand-pouring your own take-home trinket. Paddywax also sells at-home candle-making kits, as well as a full lineup of scented candles.
RiNo
For sushi aficionados, tasting menu champs, and newcomers alike, make some time to visit Uchi, one of Denver’s best Japanese restaurants. Indulge in the chef’s tasting menu, a 10-course omakase experience that will sweep you away with delectably fresh fish, an impeccable marriage of flavors, and unparalleled service and presentation.
LoDo
Fancy a bit of a reality check? Head over to VR Arcade to explore, game, and totally alter reality for a small fee. Do it solo or with friends (or even have a VR set delivered to your office for a wild company party). Since you’ll already be on Market Street, you can have your fun and then reward yourself with your pick of food and drink.
Whittier
Beer? Check. The ultimate relaxation? Double check. Welcome to The Beer Spa, where you can soak away your worries, have them massaged out in zero gravity chairs, and sample a wide variety of Colorado’s craft brews all in one visit. Fully immerse yourself in your love of beer with hydrotherapy baths and an infrared sauna, then check out the monthly rotation of what’s on tap. View the full service menu and prepare for your solo spa day, date night, or private party—no matter the occasion, it’ll be a hopping good time.
Glendale
Transport yourself to the ways of the old American West with a visit to Four Mile Historic Park, where you’ll find a fully working farm, expansive (seasonal) garden, and historically accurate replicas representing life from the mid-1800s and beyond. It’s also where you’ll find Denver’s oldest standing structure, the Four Mile House Museum. Take a trip for yourself or bring the whole fam along to check out the various (and very cute) farm animals and learn a thing or two about Denver’s history and, dare we say, the good ol’ days.
Golden Triangle
Let us preface this listing by saying that any trip to the Denver Art Museum (DAM) is worth your time. But if you’re itching to pick up a new hobby or trying to have some fun on a budget, consider DAM’s drop-in classes. Every month, the museum extends the invitation to adults to come in, view impressive works, and use the inspiration to draw or write and then share their creations. DAM also offers a number of other budget-friendly programs, including online and in-person talks and lectures.
Morrison
A true Western atmosphere and menu await at The Fort, where you can try everything from Bison Eggs (pickled quail eggs wrapped in bison sausage) and Rocky Mountain Oysters to elk, trout, and quail. Take your seasonal cocktail to the outdoor patio and warm yourself by a fire pit while stargazing. Make time to tour the adobe building and learn all about its long history.