Christmas in Denver

Question

hey everyone! I live in AR but will be coming to Denver for Christmas. What are some must do things? Where do we HAVE to eat?

We are planning to do the Royal Gorge train ride one day, a few of the Christmas markets and the beer and cookies tour. Anything else? I will be there a week, my husband will be there 4 or 5 days

I can't decide between Springhill Suites on Auraria Parkway or the Residence Inn on South Yosemite St. Which is better? I like the idea of the Residence Inn because it's got patios which will be helpful with my dog but the reviews are all over the place.

I'm open to all suggestions!

Answer

Visiting Denver during Christmas is magical, and you’ve already got some great plans with the Royal Gorge train ride, Christmas markets, and the beer and cookies tour. Since you’ll be there a week, you can explore a mix of festive activities, outdoor adventures, and great dining experiences.

Here are some must-do activities:

Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light: This annual holiday lights display is stunning and a must-see for the festive season.
Union Station Holiday Decor: Union Station is beautifully decorated, and there are often holiday pop-up shops, cocktails, and seasonal treats.
Ice Skating: The rink at Skyline Park or the Downtown Denver Rink is a fun activity, especially if you enjoy skating in a festive environment.
Denver Zoo Lights: The zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with light displays, perfect for both adults and kids.
Historic LoDo District: Take a stroll through Lower Downtown Denver for festive decorations, unique shops, and cozy cafes.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: Even if you don’t catch a concert, the scenery is breathtaking. During winter, the trails offer a peaceful hike with fewer crowds.
Day Trip Options: Besides the Royal Gorge train, consider a short drive to Boulder or Golden for picturesque winter towns and holiday events.

For dining, Denver has a fantastic food scene. Here are some highly recommended places:

Denver Biscuit Company: Famous for huge, decadent biscuit sandwiches. Great for breakfast or brunch.
Root Down: A trendy spot with locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes.
Stoic & Genuine: Located at Union Station, excellent for seafood and a festive dinner atmosphere.
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Perfect for brunch with creative pancakes and egg dishes.
Little Man Ice Cream: Stop for a sweet treat in their iconic giant milk can location.
Christmas Markets & Food Tours: Don’t miss local treats at the Christkindl Market in downtown Denver or Cherry Creek; perfect for sampling holiday snacks and unique gifts.

Regarding your hotel choice:

SpringHill Suites on Auraria Parkway: Centrally located near downtown, often praised for clean, modern rooms, and good amenities. It’s convenient for walking to Coors Field, Union Station, and LoDo.
Residence Inn on South Yosemite St: This option is more suburban and has patios, which is excellent for your dog. Reviews vary—some guests love the kitchenettes and space, while others mention maintenance or noise issues. It might feel quieter and more relaxed compared to the downtown vibe of SpringHill Suites.

If your priority is dog-friendly outdoor space and a quieter environment, the Residence Inn could be the better choice despite mixed reviews. If you prefer to be in the heart of the city with easy access to attractions, SpringHill Suites is more convenient.

Additional tips:

Dress warmly and in layers; Denver’s winter can be cold, and evenings are chilly.
Consider booking tickets for popular attractions like the Botanic Gardens lights or Red Rocks tours in advance—they can sell out around the holidays.
If you’re planning multiple Christmas markets or brewery tours, a short ride-share or rental car might be helpful to cover more ground efficiently.

Overall, you’ll have a wonderful mix of holiday cheer, local culture, and winter scenery. Denver at Christmas is festive, walkable, and full of unique experiences.

Christmas in Denver

More Denver Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions