First time in Denver, need advise
Hello,
We are a couple of two seniors planning to travel to Denver in April or May. I have limited mobility, I use a cane and if needed a rollator (walker).
Not familiar with the area, we are interested in combining some nice outdoors sightseeing, parks, botanical gardens, etc as well as museum, shows and good restaurants. We will rent a car at the airport.
We are thinking in staying 3 to 4 days, in what area should we stay and which places would you recommend us to visit.
Thanks
For a first-time visit to Denver, especially with limited mobility, it’s ideal to stay in a central and accessible area. Downtown Denver or the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood are excellent choices, as they provide easy access to museums, parks, restaurants, and public parking. These areas are mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly, which is helpful when using a cane or walker.
Recommended Areas to Stay:
- Downtown Denver – close to the Denver Art Museum, Civic Center Park, and Union Station.
- LoDo (Lower Downtown) – historic district with accessible sidewalks, restaurants, and shops.
- Cherry Creek – slightly south of downtown, upscale shopping and restaurants, quieter streets.
Outdoor Sightseeing and Parks:
- Denver Botanic Gardens – fully accessible with paved paths and benches throughout the gardens.
- Civic Center Park – central location, nice for a leisurely stroll and photo opportunities near city landmarks.
- City Park – large park with flat walking paths, home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
- Washington Park – scenic, mostly flat paths for easy walking or using a rollator, lovely gardens and lakes.
Museums and Cultural Attractions:
- Denver Art Museum – accessible with elevators, wheelchairs available, exhibits on multiple floors.
- Museum of Nature & Science – fully accessible, interactive exhibits, IMAX theater available for shows.
- Clyfford Still Museum – smaller, quiet, accessible museum for modern art lovers.
- History Colorado Center – fully accessible, engaging exhibits for history enthusiasts.
Other Activities and Shows:
- Union Station – historic and fully accessible, with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Denver Center for the Performing Arts – accessible theater with seating accommodations available.
- LoDo walking tours – historic area tours can often be adapted for slower paces or mobility devices.
Restaurants:
- Union Station restaurants – multiple options in a convenient, accessible location.
- Larimer Square – accessible streets, variety of dining from casual to upscale.
- Cherry Creek Shopping District – restaurants with outdoor seating, easy parking, and accessible entrances.
With a rental car, you will have the flexibility to explore both downtown Denver and surrounding attractions, such as Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, which has paved trails near the visitor areas and offers scenic views without strenuous walking.
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