2 days in Denver

Question

Hi--I will be in Denver 2 1/2 days the first week of December. What are some not-to-be-missed highlights? I am up for museums, tours, and outdoor activities as well. TIA

Answer

Spending 2 1/2 days in Denver in early December gives you enough time to enjoy a mix of museums, tours, and winter-friendly outdoor activities. The city is lively with holiday decorations, and the cooler temperatures make exploring museums and indoor attractions very comfortable.

Here are some highlights and recommended activities:

Union Station: Start your trip here; it’s a beautifully restored historic train station with shops, restaurants, and a festive holiday atmosphere. Great for a coffee or light breakfast and holiday photo opportunities.
Larimer Square: A short walk from Union Station, this area is charmingly decorated for the holidays, with boutique shops, restaurants, and twinkling lights.
Denver Art Museum: Famous for its architecture and extensive collections, including Native American art. A must for art lovers.
Molly Brown House Museum: Explore the story of the “Unsinkable Molly Brown” and turn-of-the-century Denver life.
Coors Field Tour: If you’re a baseball fan, a behind-the-scenes tour of the Rockies stadium is fun, and the downtown location is convenient for walking around afterward.
Denver Botanic Gardens – Blossoms of Light: In December, the gardens transform into a magical holiday light display. Perfect for evening visits.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Great for natural history exhibits, dinosaur skeletons, and space-related displays. The IMAX and planetarium shows are an added bonus.

For outdoor activities:

City Park: Located near the Museum of Nature & Science, it’s ideal for a winter stroll and offers great views of downtown against the Rockies backdrop.
Cherry Creek Trail or Downtown Walks: Nice for walking or short bike rides if the weather is mild.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway or Red Rocks Park: If you have a few hours for a short drive, both offer incredible views. Be aware that Mount Evans may be snow-covered and roads may be closed in early December, but Red Rocks is usually accessible and scenic.

Dining suggestions for quick bites or special meals:

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Famous for breakfast and brunch, creative pancakes, and egg dishes.
Mercantile Dining & Provision: Located at Union Station, excellent for lunch or casual dinner.
Root Down: A trendy spot with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine for dinner.

Additional tips:

Denver in December can be cold, so dress in layers and bring a warm coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable walking shoes.
Start early for museums and tours to maximize your time.
If you enjoy holiday events, check for Christmas markets, pop-up holiday bars, and seasonal performances during your visit.

With 2 1/2 days, focusing on Union Station, Larimer Square, one or two museums, and either the Botanic Gardens lights or a Red Rocks drive will give you a well-rounded experience of Denver’s culture, history, and festive winter charm.

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