3 day itinerary for Denver

Itinerary

Denver is a fantastic city with a vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty right at its doorstep. With your love for hiking, I’ve crafted a fun and adventurous 3-day itinerary that balances city exploration with some amazing outdoor experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore Denver’s Urban Charm

Morning:

• Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular spot known for its creative pancakes and hearty breakfast burritos. You’ll need the energy for a day of exploration!

• Denver Botanic Gardens: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Denver Botanic Gardens. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, and you can enjoy the diverse plant life and stunning landscapes.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Union Station: Head over to Union Station, a historic landmark that’s been transformed into a hub of dining and shopping. Grab a bite at one of the many eateries, like Mercantile Dining & Provision.

• Explore LoDo District: After lunch, wander around the Lower Downtown (LoDo) district. Check out the local shops, art galleries, and maybe even pop into a brewery for a quick tasting.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Source: This trendy food hall in the RiNo (River North) Art District offers a variety of dining options. Enjoy a casual dinner and maybe try some local craft beers.

• Nightcap at a Rooftop Bar: End your day with a drink at a rooftop bar like the 54thirty, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Denver skyline against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

## Day 2: Hiking Adventure in the Rockies

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local café. You’ll want to hit the road early!

• Hiking at Mount Evans: Drive about an hour to Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s famous 14ers. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. You can hike the Summit Lake Trail for a moderate hike with stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail or at Summit Lake. Take in the fresh mountain air and the beautiful surroundings.

• Continue Hiking: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue hiking to the summit or explore some of the other trails in the area, like the Chicago Lakes Trail.

Evening:

• Return to Denver: Head back to the city and freshen up.

• Dinner at El Five: Treat yourself to dinner at El Five, a rooftop restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine and stunning views of the city. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking.

## Day 3: More Hiking and Local Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite known for its giant biscuit sandwiches. You’ll need the fuel for another day of adventure!

• Hiking at Red Rocks Park: Head to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, just a short drive from Denver. Hike the Trading Post Trail, which is about 1.4 miles and offers stunning views of the iconic red rock formations.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Red Rocks Café: After your hike, enjoy lunch at the café located at the park. The views are just as good as the food!

• Explore the Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Take some time to explore the amphitheater itself. If there’s a concert or event happening, you might even be able to catch a show!

Evening:

• Return to Denver: Head back to the city for your final evening.

• Dinner at The Capital Grille: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list. It’s a great way to celebrate your Denver adventure!

• Stroll through the Denver Art Museum: If you have time, take a stroll through the Denver Art Museum, which often has late-night hours on certain days. It’s a fantastic way to wrap up your trip with some culture.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure in Denver. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! If you have any other questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask! 🌄✨