Denver, Colorado’s vibrant metropolis, offers an array of experiences for travelers throughout the year. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to captivating cultural events, Denver has something to entice every visitor. To help you plan your unforgettable trip, here’s a comprehensive guide to the 10 best times to visit Denver in 2024:
1. January: Winter Wonder
Mile High Freeze Festival
Kickstart your 2024 with the exhilarating Mile High Freeze Festival. This winter wonderland transforms Denver’s Civic Center Park into a bustling hub of ice-themed activities, including ice skating, sledding, and ice carving competitions.
Transportation
To reach Civic Center Park, conveniently take the Free MallRide bus service that operates in downtown Denver.
Accommodation
Stay in the heart of downtown at The Curtis Denver or The Oxford Hotel, within easy walking distance of the festival.
2. February: Western Heritage
National Western Stock Show
Immerse yourself in Denver’s Western heritage at the renowned National Western Stock Show. This 16-day event celebrates agricultural traditions with rodeo competitions, livestock exhibitions, and educational displays.
Transportation
The stock show takes place at the National Western Complex. Utilize the RTD Light Rail system or the Expo Park-n-Ride shuttle service to reach the venue.
Accommodation
For a convenient stay near the stock show, consider booking at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center or the Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Downtown.
3. March: St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza
St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
Celebrate the spirit of Ireland with Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. Witness the vibrant parade featuringCeltic bands, Irish dancers, and elaborate floats. Afterward, explore the festive Irish Village for music, food, and entertainment.
Transportation
The parade route stretches along 17th Street in downtown Denver. Park at the Civic Center Park or Union Station and walk to the festivities.
Accommodation
To stay close to the action, choose hotels in downtown Denver such as the Holiday Inn Denver Downtown or the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel.
4. April: Cherry Blossom Season
Denver Botanic Gardens
Witness the spectacular bloom of cherry blossom trees at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Stroll through the Japanese Garden, admire the delicate pink and white blossoms, and enjoy the serene ambiance.
Transportation
Reach the gardens via the 10th & York light rail station and walk for 10 minutes. Alternatively, take the Denver Botanic Gardens Shuttle from Union Station.
Accommodation
Book your stay at hotels near the gardens, such as the Hilton Garden Inn Denver Union Station or the Oxford Hotel, for easy access.
5. May: Denver Day of Rock
Pepsi Center
Experience an unforgettable musical extravaganza at the Denver Day of Rock. This annual concert held at the Pepsi Center features a diverse lineup of rock bands, promising an electrifying performance.
Transportation
Located in downtown Denver, the Pepsi Center is accessible via the RTD light rail system. Disembark at the Union Station station and walk for 10 minutes.
Accommodation
For a convenient stay, consider the Curtis Denver or The Oxford Hotel, situated near the Pepsi Center and Union Station.
6. June: PrideFest and Greek Festival
Civic Center Park
Celebrate diversity and inclusion at Denver’s PrideFest, one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the Rocky Mountain region. Alongside the parade and festival, enjoy live music, drag performances, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Transportation
Civic Center Park is easily accessible via the Free MallRide bus service or the RTD light rail system.
Accommodation
To stay in the heart of downtown Denver, book your accommodation at The Curtis Denver or The Oxford Hotel, a short walk from Civic Center Park.
7. July: 4th of July Fireworks
Civic Center Park
Celebrate America’s Independence Day with Denver’s spectacular 4th of July fireworks display. Gather at Civic Center Park for live music, food vendors, and a breathtaking fireworks show that illuminates the night sky.
Transportation
Civic Center Park is conveniently accessible via the Free MallRide bus service or the RTD light rail system.
Accommodation
For a comfortable stay during the fireworks, consider booking at hotels near Civic Center Park, such as The Oxford Hotel or The Curtis Denver.
8. August: Colorado State Fair
Colorado State Fairgrounds
Experience the quintessential Colorado experience at the Colorado State Fair. Held in Pueblo, just an hour south of Denver, this annual event showcases agriculture, livestock, and culinary exhibitions, along with live music, entertainment, and a carnival.
Transportation
To reach the Colorado State Fairgrounds, take the Amtrak train from Denver Union Station to Pueblo. Alternatively, drive along Interstate 25 for approximately 1 hour.
Accommodation
For convenience, stay in Pueblo during the fair at hotels like the Pueblo Marriott or the Hampton Inn & Suites Pueblo / I-25.
9. September: Great American Beer Festival
Colorado Convention Center
Celebrate Denver’s thriving beer scene at the Great American Beer Festival. This renowned event features over 4,000 beers from hundreds of breweries across the country. Indulge in tastings, attend seminars, and discover new craft beers.
Transportation
The Great American Beer Festival is held at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver. Utilize the RTD light rail system or park at the convention center’s parking garage.
Accommodation
To stay near the festival, consider booking accommodations in downtown Denver, such as The Oxford Hotel or The Curtis Denver.
10. December: Christkindl Market
Union Station
Experience the magic of the holidays at Denver’s Christkindl Market. Located at Union Station, this authentic German-style market transports you to a winter wonderland with festive decorations, handmade gifts, and delicious treats.
Transportation
Union Station is easily accessible via the RTD light rail system. Disembark at the Union Station station and follow the signs to the market.
Accommodation
For a convenient stay during the Christkindl Market, book accommodations near Union Station, such as The Oxford Hotel or Hotel Teatro.
Conclusion
Denver offers an eclectic mix of experiences throughout the year, ensuring an unforgettable trip for every traveler. Whether you seek cultural events, outdoor adventures, or festive celebrations, Denver has something to entice you. By planning your visit around one of these 10 best times to visit Denver in 2024, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of this Mile High City.
