Girls weekend-areas to stay

Question

Planning a last minute girls trip for four women in their 40’s. Looking for recommendations on neighborhoods/hotels to stay in. Flying in and out of Denver and looking for good food, non big box shopping, arts/theatre and outdoor activity the first weekend in November. Open to renting a car for a day trip (possibly Garden of the Gods) but not wanting to spend too much time driving since it’s a quick trip, arriving Friday morning and leaving Monday.

Answer

For a last-minute girls’ weekend in Denver with a focus on food, arts, theatre, and light outdoor activity, staying in or near downtown Denver is the most convenient. This area allows you to walk to restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions without needing a car, while still providing easy access for a short day trip outside the city.

Recommended neighborhoods and areas to stay:

LoDo (Lower Downtown) – Trendy area with historic architecture, great restaurants, bars, and access to Union Station. Walking distance to Coors Field and some boutique shopping.
RiNo (River North Art District) – Known for street art, galleries, breweries, and unique dining options. Vibrant and creative atmosphere, perfect for an arts-focused trip.
Capitol Hill / Civic Center – Close to the Denver Art Museum, the Colorado State Capitol, and the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Good for combining culture, theatre, and walking around historic areas.
Cherry Creek – Upscale area with boutique shopping, art galleries, and a selection of fine dining. Slightly farther from downtown but ideal for shopping and more relaxed strolls.

Hotel options suitable for a girls’ weekend:

Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver – Modern, central, walkable to restaurants and nightlife.
The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block – Boutique style, artsy vibe, and excellent location near LoDo attractions.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver – Stylish and centrally located, with a fun, social atmosphere and easy access to downtown activities.
The Crawford Hotel – Located inside Union Station, perfect for a unique experience with easy access to dining and bars.

Suggested activities for the weekend:

Explore RiNo street art and galleries, and sample local craft breweries and distilleries.
Catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts or a smaller theatre production downtown.
Walk around LoDo and Larimer Square for boutique shopping, coffee shops, and historic buildings.
Optional day trip with a rental car to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs (about 1.5 hours each way) for stunning red rock formations and easy trails.
Sample Denver’s foodie scene: brunch at Denver Biscuit Company or Snooze, dinner at Mercantile Dining & Provision, Rioja, or Acorn.

Tips for your weekend:

Book hotels as soon as possible, as the first weekend of November can be busy.
Downtown parking is available but can be expensive, so consider hotels with valet or included parking.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking between neighborhoods, as exploring Denver on foot is the easiest way to enjoy it.

Staying downtown or near LoDo/RiNo gives you a good mix of cultural, culinary, and social activities, while keeping a day trip option feasible without spending too much time driving.