Stay downtown or Cherry Creek?

Question

Been to Denver several times, but last visit, downtown seemed less active. Coming for wedding in Cherry Creek area. We won't have a car. Should we stay downtown, or does it empty out on weekends? Is there more to do walking-wise in Cherry Creek? Also, are most museums and attractions a car ride from downtown anyway? Thanks in advance!

Answer

Denver has two distinct areas to consider for lodging: downtown and Cherry Creek. Each offers different experiences, especially if you won’t have a car.

Downtown Denver:

Downtown has a concentration of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions like the Denver Art Museum, Civic Center Park, and Union Station.
It can feel less active on weekends, especially in the evenings, as the area is heavily office-centered. Weekdays tend to be busier with office workers.
Most museums and attractions are within walking distance or a short ride on the free mall shuttle (16th Street Mall Shuttle), so you can get around without a car.
For nightlife, there are bars and live music venues, though the scene may taper off later in the evening compared to more residential or mixed-use neighborhoods.

Cherry Creek:

Cherry Creek is an upscale shopping and dining district, with boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants within easy walking distance. It’s very lively on weekends.
It has a more residential and relaxed vibe compared to downtown, and is great for leisurely walks, shopping, and coffee shops.
Public transport options exist, but some attractions like museums are a short bus, Lyft/Uber, or light rail ride away. Cherry Creek itself doesn’t have major museums within walking distance.

Additional considerations:

If the wedding is in Cherry Creek and you plan to spend most of your free time there, staying nearby will save travel time and allow for convenient walking access.
If you want a more “classic tourist” Denver experience, with easy access to multiple museums, Union Station, and the 16th Street Mall, downtown is better, but be aware it can be quieter on weekend evenings.
Denver’s public transport (bus and light rail) is decent, so getting from Cherry Creek to downtown or attractions without a car is manageable.

Summary: For a wedding-centered trip in Cherry Creek and without a car, staying in Cherry Creek is practical and walkable, with lively weekend activity. Downtown offers more traditional tourist attractions but may feel quieter on a weekend. Museums and attractions are mostly reachable via short rides regardless of where you stay.