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Eat, Drink, & Play in the Mile High City

Denver City Pass | Top Citypass Attractions Cheat Sheet (2024)

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Are you looking for a Denver city pass review? Denver citypass tickets can offer you the opportunity to see many of the city’s best attractions at one low price. But is it WORTH it? Keep reading on to get this local’s take!

While Denver is most famous for its varied landscapes that include the famed Rocky Mountains, it does have a vibrant cityscape absolutely worth seeing. Hidden in the beautiful city is an array of attractions that range from amazing museums and aquariums to gardens and history centers. And what better way to dive into these points of interest than with the Denver city pass?

The Denver City Pass opens the door to a world of discovery, entertainment, and awesome attractions for every kind of visitor. It’s the perfect purchase if you’re visiting the Mile High City on a budget. With it, you can see the city’s top attractions at a fraction of the cost it’d normally be without the pass.

If you have no idea what the city pass is all about, don’t fret — we’ve written this guide to help you out with all the info you need.

Psst, if you’re trying to save money during your visit, check out our guide on the  free things to do in Denver .

Since I’m still  im patiently waiting to win the lottery, this post contains affiliate links. If you click the link and complete a purchase, I may be paid a commission (at no extra cost to you). This article may also include references to sponsored activities, however, all opinions expressed are solely my own.

What is the Denver City Pass and How Does It Work?

The Denver City Pass is a sightseeing pass that grants you easy access to some of the city’s top attractions for cheap. With the pass, you’ll spend up to 45% less than you would spend for the cost of admission to each sight separately. The adult tickets cost $43 to $59 for entry into three, four, or five attractions, with cheaper ticket types available for young kids.

Best of all, you don’t need to choose from Denver’s top attractions the moment you get it. You don’t have to go to the Mile High City anytime soon, as the Denver attractions pass is valid for a year from the date of purchase. As with most passes, it’s only activated when you visit your first attraction, and you’ll be able to use it for a 7-day period (consecutive days) from its first use. Making it a great way to explore top Denver attractions completely at your own pace.

When you’re ready,  purchase the Denver City Pass  and set your sights on the Colorado capital. Don’t worry about any sudden changes to your plans, you have 72 hours to cancel or reschedule your use of the pass.

Denver Attractions from the Denver City Pass

Now that you know what the Denver City Pass is all about, it’s time to look at the highlights and attractions you can expect. Admittedly, it’s not a long list but it does feature 7 of Denver’s most-loved attractions.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Up first is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS) is the city’s true intellectual playground. Here, you’ll find both modern and ancient exhibits that cover a broad range of subjects.

Encounter ancient artifacts from Egypt, come face to face with the mighty T-Rex, and marvel at the wildlife displays. You can also take part in some simulated experiences that bring science to life.

If you do have a little extra to spend you also have the option of catching your favorite educational flicks at the IMAX theater. Foot a little more and you can also gaze at cosmic wonders at the planetarium. This spot is definitely one of the best science museums in the United States.

Denver Art Museum

Next is the Denver Art Museum , which is a feast for those art-addicted eyes. When it comes to art museums, The DAM (as it’s locally known) is a diverse canvas whose walls feature the works of artists from many different decades. Go from floor to floor and gasp in awe at the paintings, admire the sculptures, and lose yourself in a world where nearly each art medium exists.

Past exhibitions have included artwork from the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, and Native American art. Often, the art museum hosts interactive exhibits and live artist demonstrations that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the great art.

Wait, don’t use your City Pass for the DAM just yet, we have some insider info to share with you. Kids under 18 get free admission, and they’ll only have to pay $5 at ticketed exhibitions. Adults can also get in free on the designated  museum-free days .

While reservations are not required here, the museum highly encourages making them.

Denver Downtown Aquarium

Denver’s Downtown Aquarium is an aquatic wonderland that brings you close to the aquatic wonders found at the bottom of the ocean. It features a variety of marine life that includes over 500 species from all over the world, some of which you can see swimming above your head from the aquarium’s tunnel.

Wander through themed exhibits that showcase colorful corals, beautiful jellyfish, and majestic sharks. Above all, there’s a shipwreck and sunken temple that make the aquarium a true underwater experience.

Got some extra cash to splash? Then dive into this secret  snorkeling experience  to swim with the fishes. Feeling peckish after your escapade? Surprise, the aquarium doubles as a family-friendly restaurant where you can dine with a view of the vast marine life. And, of course, be sure to stop by their gift shop for a closer look at their array of underwater toys.

Unlike the other entries here, please note you’re required to make a reservation for the Downtown Aquarium.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Moving away from the aquatic world, we have the Denver Botanic Gardens : a horticultural gem that spans 24 acres. It’s a slice of floral heaven, dotted with diverse plant species that range from exotic orchids to native Colorado flora.

Here, you can frolic through the themed gardens, including the Japanese, Water-Smart, and Sensory Gardens. Once you’re done taking in the scents of the flora, learn about the secrets behind the plants here at the informative Science Pyramid.

While horticulture is the main star of the show here, there are quite a few art exhibitions hosted frequently that play an Oscar-worthy supporting role.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

The Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum is a must-visit if you’re gaga about airplanes. It explores the history of Colorado’s aviation roots and the military legacy that made the state what it is.

The museum regularly hosts traveling exhibits. It also features a permanent fixture of over 50 iconic aircraft, that includes the B-52 Bomber. 

For the real flight enthusiast, there’s a Wright Model K Propeller with the signature of Orville Wright of the innovative Wright Brothers. There’s also a unique collection of uniforms and photography equipment that is only found here.

Have you always wanted to be a pilot but never got around to getting your license? Great, you can make your dream a reality for a day with the museum’s thrilling flight simulator that drops you right into the cockpit.

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Denver hasn’t forgotten about families at all, with the Children’s Museum of Denver made for kids. It’s an indoor playground that has all the fun your children could ever look for. Clay? Check. Sand for sandcastles? Double check.

The museum also allows kids to live out the fantasy of their potential future jobs. Their imagination will run wild as they slide down the fireman’s pole or nurse stuffed animals back to full health at the Ready Vet Go.

Kids will also be able to find interactive exhibits from time to time. The water exhibit is arguably the most popular one. It features a simulated thunderstorm, and small water jets, and allows kids to release their inner Picasso with water paintings.

Here’s another one of our useful tips: end the day with a stop at these  kid-friendly Denver restaurants  for an even bigger smile on their face.

History Colorado Center

Denver, and Colorado as a whole, has a storied history, so it’s only fair for there to be an attraction dedicated to this history. The History Colorado Center is the best way to learn about the state’s past.

You’re transported years into the past via the center’s permanent and rotating exhibits. The main highlight here however is the “Zoom In: The Centennial State in 100 Objects.” This showcases 100 different artifacts that all played a role in making Colorado what it is today.

Denver City Pass Tips

With the CityPass, Denver becomes a lot easier to navigate. But what if we told you we still have more to tell you? Check out these tips to make the most of the Denver pass.

• Although you won’t have to spend time queuing for your ticket, it’s always a good idea to get to the attractions early. This will save you the stress of having to deal with the foot traffic that takes over the sights as the day wanes.
• Use it for 5 of the most expensive attractions to make the most of the pass. Don’t forget that the Denver Art Museum offers free entry if your visit is timed perfectly.
• We recommend downloading the CityPass mobile app. On the app, you can access your tickets, make reservations, and get extra offers and discounts. Get it here for  Android  and here for  Apple .

FAQs on the Denver City Pass

What is included in the Denver Citypass?

That depends on what type of ticket you choose! The city pass comes in 3, 4, or 5 included attractions. The attractions you have to choose from include the Denver Downtown Aquarium, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Children’s Museum of Denver at Marisco Campus, Denver Botanic Gardens, Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver Art Museum, and the History Colorado Center.

How much does it cost to get into the Denver Museum of Nature and Science?

General admission for an adult ticket is $24.95 and a child ticket is $19.95. Or you can purchase a city pass and this attraction is included along with other top tourist attractions in Denver!

Is the Denver Art Museum free?

Typically, no. Although they do have some free days at this museum sprinkled throughout the year. However, the Denver Art Museum is one of the attractions included in the pass!

Why the Denver CityPass is Worth It?

As long as the attractions on the City Pass are those you intend to visit anyway, absolutely! You are guaranteed to save money (and time) over purchasing one-time admission tickets independently.

With it, you can art-hop, lose yourself in the world of aviation, and time travel through Colorado’s past, all while keeping your wallet plump and happy.

Now, purchase the Denver City Pass and go to Denver to experience all of its splendor. And if you have used the pass in the past and agree it’s a great option, do let us know your experience!

A small-town girl originally from Wyoming, Kara fled the state as soon as she could. She has called Colorado home since 2003 aside from ~9 months spent traveling the world full-time in 2019. When she isn't traveling you will find her exploring Denver, CO, petting any animal that will let her and laughing (quite loudly) as much as possible.

13 Denver Events in September | Best Fall Things to Do (2024)

Is The Denver CityPASS Worth It?

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: December 12, 2022

Updated: June 26, 2024

The Denver CityPASS is the major attraction pass in the Mile High City and we’ve personally used the pass ourselves. In this review, we’ll show you what to expect when using the pass including how much you can save. This attraction pass won’t be a good fit for everyone, but for those who decide to use it, we want to show you how to maximize your time and money.

Disclaimer : We received Denver C5 Passes in order to share our opinion about this product but this is not a sponsored post.

Our CityPASS Experience

We’ve used attraction passes in cities all around the world including this exact pass in Denver during fall 2022. CityPASS is a very popular company offering mainly US based options. We like their passes because they offer top attractions at a great price point.

Other reviews online often claim to have used this pass, but then source stock photos from various websites. So we found it extremely important to prove that we’ve actually used the pass and you’ll find our personal photos taken from every attraction we visited. This is our honest review after using a C5 CityPASS for Denver. Read more  about us .

If you’re interested in this pass, you can also read our reviews for: San Francisco CityPASS Seattle CityPASS New York CityPASS

Why Consider A Denver CityPASS?

Using a CityPASS in Denver will give you access to the top attractions including museums, aquariums and special experiences. This is the main reason most people buy a pass. We always like to compare it to buying in bulk because the more attractions you purchase, the more you’ll save.

An attraction pass is great for first time visitors, returning visitors or those who live in the city but have yet to experience any of the touristy things. For example, we used several of the New York attraction passes when we lived in the city because we wanted to experience the best attractions at a slow pace.

The Denver CityPASS is an attraction based pass and this feature makes it unique. Your decision is much easier because you don’t have to choose between day or attraction based options offered by other companies. It’s preloaded with a certain number of attractions and you have 7 days to visit them once your pass is activated, but it doesn’t have to be consecutive days.

Here are the 3 official Denver pass options for CityPASS:

• C5 Pass (we used this one)

The main difference is the amount of attractions on each one. A C3 pass has 3 attractions, a C4 pass has 4 attractions and a C5 pass has 5 attractions, you get the point. But you then choose from a list of 7 top attractions no matter which pass you purchase. You also have one year from the date of purchase to active your pass in Denver.

Want A Denver CityPASS?

Head over to the official website to grab your pass now.

Denver CityPASS Attractions

Depending on which pass you buy, you’ll be able to visit 3-5 attractions from a list of 7 total attractions. A CityPASS includes general admission to all of the attractions below, but you’ll have to pay extra for temporary exhibits.

Here is the official list including what we decided to visit:

• Children’s Museum of Denver
• Denver Art Museum (visited)
• Denver Botanic Gardens (visited)
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science (visited)
• Downtown Aquarium (visited)
• History Colorado Center (visited)
• Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Now that you know what attractions are included on the pass, let’s take a closer look at each one individually:

1. Children’s Museum of Denver

• Address : 2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211
• Location : Google maps
• Hours : Open 9:00am – 4:00pm daily
• Reservations : Not required, present your pass at the front desk

First opened in 1973, this 9-acre museum features hands-on exhibits targeting newborns to 8 year olds, but kids of any age will have an amazing time. Click here to see the full list of the 17 innovative exhibits.

Travel Tip : Kids under the age of 1 will receive free entry so no need to purchase a pass for them.

2. Denver Art Museum

• Address : 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
• Hours : 10:00am – 5:00pm daily and 10:00am – 8:00pm Tuesdays
• Reservation : Recommended

The Denver Art Museum is nestled within the Civic Center Park downtown. It’s one of the largest museums between the west coast and Chicago featuring more than 70,000 diverse works from recent centuries as well as throughout the entire world.

Travel Tip : Children 18 and under will receive free entry.

3. Denver Botanic Gardens

• Address : 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
• Location: Google maps
• Hours : 9:00am – 2:00pm daily
• Reservations : Not required, CityPASS holders automatically receive next available entry

We loved visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens because it was like beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. Spanning an impressive 24 acres, this garden includes plants and storyboards from all over the world. Many of the exhibits showcase how plants can survive in Colorado’s semi-arid climate.

Travel Tip : Various free days occur throughout the year and you can see the list here . Children 2 and under are free.

4. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

• Address : 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
• Hours : 9:00am – 5:00pm daily and 9:00am – 9:00pm most Fridays
• Reservations : Not required, present your pass at the ticketing line

One of our favorite attractions, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a great option for your itinerary. We thought this museum was modernized and extremely well put together. Permanent exhibitions include Egyptian mummies, Dinosaurs, Russian Folk Life, Space Odyssey, numerous wildlife halls and a Discovery Zone sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.

5. Denver Downtown Aquarium

• Address : 700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211
• Hours : 10:00am – 8:30pm Monday to Thursday, 10:00am to 10:00pm Friday and Saturday, 10:00am to 8:00pm Sunday
• Reservations : Not required, present your pass at the main entrance

We also really enjoyed visiting the Denver Aquarium because it’s home to over 500 species and we saw many unique underwater animals. It took us about 2.5 hours to walk through and a very popular attraction was the interactive StingRay Reef tank. This is a great attraction if you’re visiting with kids, but it can be crowded.

Travel Tip : Children 2 and under can visit the aquarium for free.

6. History Colorado Center

• Address : 1200 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
• Hours : 10:00am – 5:00pm

The History Colorado Center is a unique attraction for Denver. We highly recommend visiting if it’s you’re first time in town and you’re interested in learning about the history of Colorado. Besides the occasional group of school children, this museum was not as crowded compared to the others on this list. Click here to see a full list of exhibits.

Travel Tip : Kids under 18 receive free admission to the History of Colorado Center. Tickets for this museum are only $15.00 for adults so it might be cheaper to visit another option on your CityPASS and pay out of pocket for this attraction.

7. Wings Over the Rockies

• Address : 7711 E Academy Blvd, Denver, CO 80230
• Hours : 10:00am – 5:00pm daily, 12:00pm – 5:00pm Sunday
• Reservations : Not required, present your pass at the front entrance

Located away from the downtown area, the Wings Over the Rockies Museum is located within the former Lowry Air Force Base in the historic lowry neighborhood. It’s a very popular museum featuring wartime aircrafts, WWII uniforms and aviation art. This is one attraction we’re sad we missed, but it’s on our bucket list for next time we’re in town.

How Much Does The Denver CityPASS Cost?

Our experience with CityPASS has shown us these passes are often very cost effective so we’ll show you how much they cost including how much you can save with each pass.

Here are the prices you’d pay if visiting each attraction individually using same day box office prices for adults:

• Children’s Museum of Denver – $19.75
• Denver Art Museum – $22.00
• Denver Botanic Gardens – $15.75
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science – $25.95
• Downtown Aquarium – $27.99
• History Colorado Center – $15.00
• Wings Over the Rockies – $ 19.95

Denver C5 Pass example :

The Denver C5 Pass is currently priced at $64.00 for adults and $54.00 for children (3-11).

And here’s an example of how you can use it:

Downtown Aquarium ( $27.99 ) + Denver Museum of Nature & Science ( $25.95 ) + Denver Art Museum ( $22.00 ) + Wings Over the Rockies ( $ 19.95 ) + Children’s Museum of Denver ( $19.75 ) = $115.64

• Attraction price (no CityPASS) = $115.64
• CityPASS price = $64.00
• Savings = $51.64

You’ll save 45% on the top 5 attractions !

>> Buy a Denver C5 Pass here

Travel Tip : You’ll save the most on a Denver C5 Pass, but if you don’t want to visit 5 attractions, the C4 or C3 pass will still save you some money!

Denver C4 Pass example :

The Denver C4 Pass is currently priced at $57.00 for adults and $46.00 for children (3-11).

Downtown Aquarium ( $27.99 ) + Denver Museum of Nature & Science ( $25.95 ) + Denver Art Museum ( $22.00 ) + Wings Over the Rockies ( $ 19.95 ) = $95.89

• Attraction price (no CityPASS) = $95.89
• CityPASS price = $57.00
• Savings = $38.89

You’ll save 40% on the top 4 attractions !

>> Buy a Denver C4 Pass here

Denver C3 Pass example :

The Denver C3 Pass is currently priced at $46.00 for adults and $37.00 for children (3-11).

Downtown Aquarium ( $27.99 ) + Denver Museum of Nature & Science ( $25.95 ) + Denver Art Museum ( $22.00 ) = $75.94

• Attraction price (no CityPASS) = $75.94
• CityPASS price = $46.00
• Savings = $29.94

You’ll save 40% on the top 3 attractions !

>> Buy a Denver C3 Pass here

How To Make Timed Reservations

There is only one attraction on the list that recommends advance reservations, the Denver Art Museum . But it’s very easy to do this on the official CityPASS website. The ease of booking reservations is one of the reasons we like this company so much.

All you have to do is head over to the  reservation page , find the attraction, hit the dark blue button that says ‘Reserve Time’ and select the time you’d like to visit. A confirmation email with your reservation information will be sent to the same email you used to originally purchase CityPASS tickets.

Reservations work on a on a timed entry system meaning you won’t have to wait in lines at each attraction. All you’ll need to do is show your CityPASS for Denver along with your reservation confirmation.

Please keep in mind reservation requirements may change so always verify what’s required for each individual attraction prior to your trip.

How To Buy Your Denver CityPASS

Buying your CityPASS is easy:

• Head to the official website for CityPASS
• Choose between the C3, C4 and C5 Pass
• Select the amount of adult and / or child passes
• Hit the big red button to add the passes to your cart
• Checkout and enjoy your fun filled trip to Denver

You can also purchase a pass from Get Your Guide . The prices are exactly the same as the official website and you can read the previous customer reviews.

Head over to the official website to buy your pass now.

The Morgan Conclusion

Now that you know how the pass works and what attractions are included, you’re probably wondering if the Denver CityPASS is worth the hassle.

So after using the C5 pass in Denver ourselves, we saved over $80 and visited some of the cheaper attractions ! You could maximize your savings by visiting the more expensive attractions and we think this pass is worth getting if you want to see the top attractions in the city. Keep in mind the pass is only valid for 7 days after visiting your first attraction, but this won’t be a problem for most visitors.

If you’re visiting with kids, you might have to do a little more research because each attraction offers free entry for young children (typically under 2 or 3 years). But every attraction except the History Colorado Center and the Denver Art Museum charges an admission fee for older children. Price out each pass depending on your child’s age similar to our example above because it might just be worth getting adult passes if they have free entry.

The CityPASS for Denver, Colorado is great for first time visitors because you get the best attractions at a competitive price point. But this pass can also be used for locals who want to be a tourist in their own town. Unfortunately, the Denver CityPASS does not include the Denver Zoo as an attraction, but you can visit the Children’s Museum and the Downtown Aquarium.

More Attraction Pass Guides

• San Francisco CityPASS review
• San Francisco pass comparison
• New York CityPASS review
• Seattle CityPASS review
• Paris attraction pass comparison
• NY Sightseeing pass review
• NYC attraction pass comparison

We hope our Denver CityPASS review helps you decide if this is the attractions pass for you!

Please let us know if you have any questions about this pass or Denver in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy this Denver CityPASS guide? Pin it for later!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Denver CityPASS 2024: A Local’s Honest Review (Is it Worth It?)

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

Are you hoping to save some money on your next trip to the Centennial State? The Denver CityPASS might be just what you’re looking for.

During the summer and winter months, the Mile High City is a popular vacation destination.

Thanks to its central location you can tour the state’s quirky mountain towns and ski resorts within just a couple hours’ drive.

As a Colorado local (born and raised!) I’m sharing an in-depth Denver CityPASS review. I’m covering how the pass works, what top attractions are included, and whether it’s worth the price.

Get up to 43% off with the CityPass Denver bundle! 🤩 4.7/5 stars (650+ reviews)

How does the Denver CityPASS work?

The Denver CityPASS is an all-in-one bundle that provides access to 7 of Denver’s top tourist attractions for one low price. 

Not only does this bundle create a custom sightseeing experience but you could save up to 43% off the regular cost of admission. 

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

A CityPASS ticket provides entrance to 3, 4, or 5 awesome attractions with no need to specify which sights you’ll actually visit. 

The Denver CityPASS expires one year after purchase so you must activate and use your pass within 365 days. And similar to most sightseeing passes, this pass is activated simply by using it at your first attraction. 

Once it’s activated, the Denver CityPASS is valid for 7 consecutive days , including that first day of use. This allows you to explore the city on your own schedule and create your own Denver experience!

Simply choose the number of attractions you would like included in your pass and then book online instantly. 

Here are the top seven attractions included in the Denver CityPASS for one low price.

✔️ Downtown Aquarium Denver ($27.99) 

✔️ Denver Museum of Nature & Science ($25.95)

✔️ History Colorado Center ($15)

✔️ Denver Art Museum ($22)

✔️ Denver Botanic Gardens ($11-16)

✔️ Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus ($19.75)

✔️ Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum ($19.95)

Total retail price for all attractions: $146.64

Total cost for Denver CityPASS: $37-64 depending on bundle

By purchasing this Denver CityPASS bundle you could get up to 45% significant savings on tickets to the most popular museums and venues.

Prices have been updated and are current as of June 2024. They list regular adult non-member admission costs in parenthesis.

What does the denver city pass cost.

Now that you know what’s included with the Denver CityPASS let’s talk about how much each pass costs.

The CityPASS is broken up into C3, C4 and C5 tickets which correspond with the number of attractions that are included in each bundle.

• C3 = 3 mix-and-match attractions, $46 per adult or $37 per child
• C4 = 4 mix-and-match attractions, $57 per adult or $46 per child
• C5 = 5 mix-and-match attractions, $64 per adult or $54 per child (BEST VALUE)

Adult tickets are for anyone 12 years or older while child passes are for kids ages 3-11.

As you can see, the Denver CityPASS is an excellent way to save money while visiting Denver’s best attractions. 

For example; regular admission price to the Denver Downtown Aquarium, Wings Over the Rockies, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science totals $73.89 for one adult ticket to each place.

However, if you were to buy the C3 Denver CityPASS you will only pay $46 for the same access. This is a savings of $28 per adult! 

What’s even more is the best value comes from the C5 attraction ticket, which is up to 45% savings.

What attractions are included in the CityPASS Denver?

As mentioned above the Denver CityPASS includes the 7 most popular museums and places to visit in the Mile High City. 

Here is a more detailed look of what each attraction is and what you can expect when visiting. 

As a Colorado local, I enjoy visiting all of these places so you really can’t go wrong with anyone that you choose. Keep reading to find out my top picks!

1. Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is one of my favorite Denver attractions that you can visit any time of year. It’s especially gorgeous during the spring and summer months when everything is in bloom.

But it’s also an amazing destination during the winter holidays where you can enjoy some epic exhibits. 

I recommend the “Glow at the Gardens” or the annual “Blossoms of Light” , both of which are breathtaking and artistic displays of lights and sculptures. 

With more than 43 unique gardens including the Dryland Mesa and Japanese Garden, this has been a city landmark since 1973.

Upon arriving at the York Street location, CityPASS guests will receive the next available time and do not need advanced reservations. 

Simply scan your Denver CityPASS tickets in the Bonfils-Stanton Visitor Center. Regular admission price starts at $15.75 for adults and $11.50 for children ages 3-15. 

2. Denver Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is a very family-friendly attraction that features over 500 unique aquatic species. Some underwater animals you can expect to see include seahorses, otters, and even mermaids.

Yep the Under the Sea exhibit features mermaids swimming around in sea life with choreographed music. It’s a fun exhibit that kids and adults will love. 

Other family-friendly exhibits featured at the Denver Aquarium include a shipwreck, coral lagoon, and a sunken temple. 

A ride on the Aquatic Carousel or the Aquarium Express is a fun adventure for kids but costs an extra fee. 

Regular admission price starts at $27.99 for adults and $21.99 for children ages 3-11.  

3. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Another family friendly activity included with the Denver CityPASS is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science . 

Here, you and your family can take in some of the most engaging history and cultural exhibits.

Be prepared to see dinosaur fossils, wildlife displays, a journey through space, and some of the oldest mummies on record.

If you decide to spend the whole day in this epic museum, I recommend checking out the planetarium or the IMAX theater. Although there is an additional cost for these activities.

General admission tickets starts at $25.95 for adults and $17.95 for children ages 3-18.  

4. History Colorado Center

A must-visit for high-tech lovers as well as history buffs, the History Colorado Center features a combo of technology and media exhibits.

Not to mention some historical exhibits showcasing the state’s ever evolving history.

Both kids and adults will enjoy this walk through history with exhibits like “Building Denver” and hands-on experiences from the History Colorado Marketplace.

This large museum displays 15 exhibits spanning four floors that are designed for all generations to enjoy the spirit of the Centennial State.

Regular admission price starts at $15 for adults and $0 for children ages 18 or younger are FREE .  

5. Denver Art Museum

Another local favorite of mine is the Denver Art Museum which is famous for its unique and limited-time traveling exhibits. 

In the past I have visited the “Star Wars Power of Costume” which featured more than 70 original costumes, including Queen Amidala’s lavish gowns.

Other permanent exhibits feature everything from sculptures to photography and some of the best American Indian & Western art in the country.

The museum’s massive fortress-like design is inspired by the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. And inside the museum all of the corners and rooms are created out of right angles.

Regular admission price starts at $22 for non-resident adults and free for children ages 18 or younger. 

6. Children’s Museum of Denver

The Denver CityPASS also offers general admission to the interactive Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. 

With more than 19 kid-centric exhibits this museum is geared towards kids with 4 main themes: explore, imagine, investigate, and create. 

From zip-lining to indoor mountain climbing, painting, sculpting and role-playing there are endless opportunities for fun and growth. 

Some of the summer workshops include creating your own fossil, cooking in the Teaching Kitchen, and getting your hands dirty in the garden.

Regular museum admission starts at $19.75 for kids and adults ages 2-59 years old. 

7. Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

In addition to the museums mentioned above, the Denver CityPASS also includes the epic Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum .

If you or your kids are into aviation, space, or learning about aircraft, you don’t want to miss this museum. 

There are numerous exhibits that feature historic aircraft, flight simulations, astronauts, and interactive space exploration.

Throughout the year the museum hosts various events including space camps, a beer festival, and a Star Wars weekend.

And of course, during the summer there are a variety of summer camps available for children to attend.

Regular admission price starts at $19.95 for adults and $12.95 for youth ages 4-16 years old. 

Is the Denver Zoo included in the CityPASS? 

The Denver Zoo used to be included in the old CityPASS tickets but is no longer available in this bundle. 

If you are interested in visiting the Denver Zoo separately, it is definitely an attraction that should not be missed. 

The zoo hosts some of the most rare and unique species of animals including the Bactrian Camel and Black Rhino which are critically endangered.

Regular admission price for non-members starts at $20 for adults and $14 for youth ages 3-11 years old. 

How long does the Denver CityPASS last?

Once you purchase a CityPASS Bundle, you have 365 days to activate it before access expires.

This means there’s no need to plan your vacation or to choose your attractions right now, you can always decide later!

But once you have activated your Denver City Pass you have 7 consecutive days, or one week, to use it. And this includes the first day of use.

Let’s say you’re planning a trip to Denver in the summer and you want to visit for a week. But you’re waiting to see the best price on plane tickets and hotels before booking anything.

Great! You can go ahead and buy a Denver CityPASS now and then activate as part of your trip itinerary when you get to the city. Easy mode!

What are the pros and cons of buying a Denver CityPASS? 

As with anything you purchase, there are pros and cons to purchasing a CityPASS Denver bundle.

✔️ Save money on admission fees

There are many reasons to use the Denver CityPASS but the main one is simply how much money you could save.

When used strategically you could save 43% on the regular cost of admission at some of Denver’s top attractions.

✔️ Flexible vacation schedule

Not sure what to do on your trip to Denver? As mentioned the CityPASS is valid for seven days after activation.

This gives you time to customize your own schedule how you’d like. Spread out your sightseeing over a full week and make the most of your trip.

✔️ Less time waiting in line

Many of these top Denver attractions cater to those with a CityPASS ticket so there’s no waiting in line to purchase tickets.

Just show your mobile ticket or paper stub and get in on the next available time slot.

❌ Doesn’t include guided tours

One of the best things about visiting Colorado is going for a guided tour in Denver , whether it’s in the mountains or downtown.

The Denver CityPASS does not include any guided tours and simply focuses on the most popular tourist attractions inside the city.

❌ Access to only 7 attractions

There is a lot to do and to see in Colorado, and especially Denver. The CityPASS Bundle only includes access to five of the top seven museums and nothing else.

If you’re looking to save big at these specific attractions, then you’re in luck. But if you want to visit other museums or destinations, then the CityPASS Denver package may not be a good idea.

❌ Locked into one week

The CityPASS is available to use within one year of purchase (and you even get 365-day risk-free returns. But once you activate the pass, it’s only valid at these museums for seven consecutive days.

After that one week, the passes and tickets expire and you’ll have to pay regular admission prices.

Should you buy a Denver CityPASS?

The Denver CityPASS is a great option for locals or tourists who want an affordable option when visiting the Mile High City. 

While this pass doesn’t include any guided tours and is limited to these 7 museums, it does feature some of Denver’s most popular attractions.

You’re bound to find enjoyment on your vacation as well as learn about the history of the state and see some epic exhibits. 

The Denver CityPASS is perfect for families, first-time visitors, locals enjoying a staycation, or travelers who like to take their time.

The pass gives you a glimpse of the major sights in Denver and it’s a learning experience for the whole family.

If you aren’t interested in museums or exhibits while on your vacation to Denver then the CityPASS is not the best choice. 

Or if you’re interested in guided tours, you’ll be disappointed with the Denver CityPASS lack of selection. 

However, if you’re interested in guided tours to create a fuller itinerary, check out our list of the best Denver tours . 

Or do both by customizing your trip to include both flexible and concrete things to do! 

Simply book a couple tours in addition to your Denver CityPASS bundle for an epic trip with big savings.

Tips from a Local for Using the Denver CityPASS

As someone who has lived in Colorado my whole life, here are my best tips for making the most of your Denver CityPASS.

• Buy your pass in advance. Before getting to any of the attractions, buy the Denver CityPASS online before your trip. You can not buy a CityPASS at any of the attraction ticket booths.
• Choose the most expensive attractions . In order to maximize the value of your Denver CityPASS, choose the attractions with the highest regular admission costs. The best value is the C5 attraction pass, which allows you to mix-and-match while saving up to 43% compared to regular admission costs. 
• The Denver Art Museum is free for kids. It’s important to know that the Denver Art Museum always offers free admission for kids under 18. So, don’t use your pass to cover this attraction admission. 
• Visit during the best times. The best times to visit many of these museums is on weekdays during the morning or early afternoons when they are less crowded.

How to Buy this Denver CityPASS

To purchase a Denver CityPASS you can do so quickly and easily by purchasing it online . 

After completing your purchase you’ll be instantly emailed tickets that can be printed off or scanned on your mobile device. 

I recommend using mobile tickets when possible so you don’t lose the paper tickets while traveling on vacation. But if you prefer the paper option, that is available as well.

Is the Denver CityPASS worth the price in 2024?

Like any other vacation pass, the Denver CityPASS has both pros and cons. But as a local Colorado native I feel like it’s worth considering for your next trip.

For a starting price of just $43 for adults or $36 for kids, the CityPASS bundle gives you have the flexibility of choosing 3 of the top 7 attractions to visit. Or pay $59 and have the choice of 5 different museums to attend.

The pass is a great option for those wanting to experience great cultural attractions and learning about the history of Colorado.

But as mentioned, this pass is geared toward sightseers that enjoy exhibits and aren’t looking for a bunch of guided tours. 

The Rocky Mountains form a gorgeous backdrop for some of the best food, latest technology, and scenic views in the country.

If that sounds like you, then the Denver CityPASS can save you money while helping you plan a fun trip.

Click this link or the image below to learn more and book your Denver CityPASS today!

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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Denver CityPASS Review 2024: Is It Worth It?

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In this Denver CityPASS review, we cover how the pass works, what attractions are included, and whether it’s a good fit for your travel plans. Enjoy!

When you think of great tourist destinations, Denver might not be the first city that pops to mind. The mountain towns beyond the city get most of the love, but the truth is that Denver is home to some pretty impressive sights itself.

Besides the mountains, the Mile High City is well-known more for its food and drinks than its museum scene. As it turns out, though, it’s worth making a trip for both!

If you’re hoping to save money in Denver, the Denver CityPASS might be just what you’re looking for. The pass provides a good option for seeing the city’s best sights for less.

As with all sightseeing passes , this card isn’t for everybody. So, let’s dive in and determine if the Denver CityPASS could be a great way for you to save money in Denver!

Denver CityPASS: How It Works

The Denver CityPASS is a build-your-own sightseeing pass that provides access to 3, 4, or 5 of Denver’s top 7 tourist attractions – saving you up to 43% off the cost of admission to your selected attractions.

Simply choose the number of attractions you want included on your pass and buy it online. There’s no need to specify which sights you’ll actually be visiting. Just make your way to the Mile High City and decide on the fly.

Like the Seattle CityPASS and the Southern California CityPASS , you’ll get an email with both a printable and a mobile ticket after you purchase the pass. Decide which option you’d prefer to use, and you’re good to go.

It’s important to note that the Denver CityPASS expires one year after purchase. That means you must activate the pass within that year. Like most sightseeing passes, this pass is activated simply by using it at your first attraction. The Denver CityPASS is then valid for 7 consecutive days, including that first day you use it, allowing you to experience the city on your own schedule.

Top Attractions Included on the Denver CityPASS

The Denver CityPASS offers access to 3, 4, or 5 of the following 7 Denver hot spots (regular adult admission in parenthesis):

• Downtown Aquarium ($26.50)
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science ($22.95)
• Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus ($17)
• Denver Botanic Gardens ($15)
• Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum ($18.95)
• Denver Art Museum ($19)
• History Colorado Center ($15)

*Current as of May 31, 2023

How Much Does the Denver CityPASS Cost?

Now that you know what’s included, let’s talk about how much it costs. In the table below, you’ll find the adult and child prices of each available pass:

As you can see, the Denver CityPASS can save you a pretty nice chunk of change on the included attractions, especially if you’re traveling with your family or a small group.

For example, to save money with the 3-attraction pass (which costs $43), simply make sure the regular admission costs of the 3 attractions you choose adds up to more than that. Regular admission to the Downtown Aquarium, Museum of Science and Nature, and Wings Over Rockies Air & Space Museum total $68.40. With the pass, you save $25.40 per adult or 37% off the regular price. The biggest value comes from the 5 attraction pass, which can save you up to 43%.

Save Up to 43% in Denver – Use the Denver CityPASS and save up to 43% at the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Get started here!

Denver CityPASS Attractions Guide

Before you decide if the pass is for you, let’s take a closer look at what is included on the Denver CityPASS.

Downtown Aquarium

The Denver CityPASS includes access to the Aquarium Adventure Exhibit. Here, you’ll enjoy viewing over 500 species of aquatic animals and learning about their habits. The family-friendly exhibits feature a shipwreck, coral lagoon, and a sunken temple.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver CityPASS includes general admission to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Here, you can marvel at dinosaur fossils, wildlife displays, cultural artifacts, and a journey through space. Like the Aquarium, the museum is a family-friendly attraction.

Access to the museum’s IMAX theatre and Planetarium costs extra but may be worth checking out if you want to make a complete day of it.

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

The Denver CityPASS offers general admission to 19 kid-centric exhibits organized based on 4 themes: explore, imagine, investigate, and create. Kids will enjoy an immersive play experience that’s educational to boot.

Some highlights include indoor mountain climbing, zip lining, and playing firefighter. Kids get to experience science while playing with water and get hands-on creating art through painting and sculpting.

This Children’s Museum is a really fun, interactive experience for kids, and parents will definitely have fun watching. It should go without saying, though, that this is not really a spot for solo adults.

Denver Botanic Gardens

More than 40 gardens sitting on 24 acres await when you visit the York Street Gardens with the Denver CityPASS. You’ll see the large “Gardens of the West” collection which features a variety of plants that live in Colorado’s climate, as well as gardens inspired by Asia, South Africa, and the Tropics. If you love colorful flowers like roses and lilies, you’ll gravitate toward the “Ornamental Gardens.”

That’s not all, though! A plethora of aquatic plants reside in the “Water Gardens,” and you can find a cool place to relax in the “Shady Gardens.” From March to October, kids can also explore the ecosystems of Colorado at the “Mordecai Children’s Garden.”

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Learn about the history of aviation and check out more than 50 aircraft at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Here, you can also find space vehicles while learning about astronauts and space exploration. The Denver CityPASS provides general admission plus access to traveling exhibits. The museum also holds various events throughout the year, including a beer festival and Star Wars weekend.

Denver Art Museum

If you enjoy art, you’ll easily pass away an afternoon at the Denver Art Museum. With more than a dozen collections ranging from European to American Indian art, your eyes can feast on some of the best art you’ll find in the American West.

The Denver CityPASS also provides access to current exhibitions that change throughout the year and live artist demonstrations on select weekends. ( Editor’s Note: The Denver Art Museum generously offers free admission to kids under 18 year-round and free admission to all on the second Tuesday of each month. So, if you’re traveling with your family, consider this when choosing how to use your Denver CityPASS .)

History Colorado Center

The History Colorado Center features permanent and traveling exhibitions that tell the story of Colorado’s rich history. There are some pretty neat displays, like the “Centennial State in 100 Objects” exhibt, and many of the exhibits are interactive – making this walk through history a fun time for kids and adults alike. The center also offers programs for adults and children and includes a research center with access to an extensive collection of resources.

Other Benefits of the Denver CityPASS

• Save on admission fees – If used strategically, the Denver CityPASS can save you up to 43% on the regular cost of admission to Denver’s top attractions. That means using it for the most expensive options.
• Fast – track entry – At the popular attractions, you won’t need to line up to purchase tickets. Just show your ticket (mobile or paper), and you’re in! That translates into more time sightseeing and less time standing around waiting.
• Flexibility  – The Denver CityPASS is valid for 7 days once you activate it, meaning you can spread your sightseeing out over a week. Even if you opt for the 5-attraction pass, you can still enjoy a very relaxed pace.

Save Time and Money in Denver – Enjoy fast-track entry and up to 43% off admission prices at Denver’s best attractions. Get your Denver CityPASS here.

Where the Denver CityPASS Falls Short

The Denver CityPASS is an attractive option for travelers wanting to visit some of Denver’s top attractions at a discounted price. However, it isn’t perfect.

Unlike some sightseeing cards, like Go City’s Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass , this pass doesn’t include any guided tours. I love guided tours, especially when visiting a city for the first time, so I would have liked to see one on the pass.

Mountains are a pretty big deal in Colorado, and there are some excellent mountain tours from Denver that give visitors a glimpse. Adding an option like that would raise the price of the pass and might not be practical. But having a mountain tour as an add-on option could make the pass more attractive to travelers who are interested in taking in the natural scenery.

Who Should Consider the Denver CityPASS?

Families  – The Denver CityPASS is affordable, and most the attractions are extremely family-friendly. Kids will especially enjoy the Children’s Museum, the Aquarium, and the Denver Zoo. The Denver Art Museum offers kids free admission, so that’s also a bonus.

First-time visitors  – If it’s your first time in Denver, you’ll most likely want to check out at least a few of the major sights included on the Denver CityPASS.

Travelers who like to take their time  – The Denver CityPASS is valid for 7 days, so if you’re the kind of sightseer who likes to space things out, it’ll be a good fit.

Who Should Skip the Denver CityPASS?

People who aren’t interested in exhibits  – If you’re not into the kind of sightseeing that involves looking at exhibits, the Denver CityPASS isn’t for you, since that’s most of what it offers.

Travelers who enjoy tours  – If you really appreciate guided tours, you’ll be disappointed in the Denver CityPASS’ total lack of selection. You can view some of the most popular tours in Denver here .

Tips for Using the Denver CityPASS

• Choose the most expensive attractions – To get the maximum value from the Denver CityPASS, you should choose the attractions with the highest regular admission costs. The best value is the 5-attraction pass, which can save you up to 44% compared to regular admission costs.
• Don’t forget the Denver Art Museum is free for kids  – As I mentioned before, the Denver Art Museum is always free for kids under 18. So, don’t plan to use the pass to cover their admission!
• Buy your pass in advance  – If you want to take advantage of all the savings, buy the Denver CityPASS before your trip.

How to Buy the Denver CityPASS

Purchasing the Denver CityPASS is a snap! You can buy it online here .

After you make your purchase, you’ll get an email with your tickets. Simply print them off or keep them on your mobile phone. I prefer using mobile tickets whenever possible because it’s less to keep track of and carry. If you don’t use a smartphone, don’t have data in the US, or just prefer a paper copy, the option to print it is also there for you.

Is the Denver CityPASS Worth it?

The Denver CityPASS may not be as impressive as some other passes (like the Chicago CityPASS ), but it’s worth considering. The included attractions aren’t overly expensive, and neither is the pass, so it’s not a big commitment.

Like I mentioned before, this pass is geared toward sightseers that enjoy exhibits and aren’t looking for a bunch of guided tours. If that sounds like you, the Denver CityPASS can save you money and is definitely worth a look.

If you choose the costliest attractions, you can save up to 43% off the regular admission prices. That is a significant savings, which is on par with what many other sightseeing passes offer.

Thanks so much for reading and enjoy your trip to Denver! Until next time, happy traveling!

Save Up to 43% with the Denver CityPASS – Visit up to 5 of Denver’s top attractions and save up to 43% off the cost of regular admission with the Denver CityPASS. Get yours here.

Denver CityPASS Review

• Attractions
• Pass Options & Lengths
• Fast Track Entry
• Overall Value

The Denver CityPASS may not be as impressive as some other passes, but it’s worth considering. The included attractions aren’t overly expensive, and neither is the pass, so it’s not a big commitment.

This pass is geared toward sightseers who enjoy exhibits and aren’t looking for a bunch of guided tours. If that sounds like you, the Denver CityPASS can save you money and is definitely worth a look.

Greg Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty and an expert in personal finance, family travel, and credit card rewards. His work and commentary have been featured in publications like Newsweek , Kiplinger’s Personal Finance , Dough Roller , CreditCardReviews.com , and more. He also works as a freelance personal finance editor at Bankrate.com.

Greg travels the world for about 20 weeks each year and has visited over 40 countries. He holds two bachelor's degrees, is the co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt , and owns his own independent travel agency. Learn more about Greg here.

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Went to the Aquarium and the Museum of Nature, when I went to Denver on a business trip. Worth it. Can’t say about the other attractions but I would do them if I go back with more time. It’s a pretty good price for the pass too.

To me, it looks totally worth it. You can do a lot of things. I love Denver!

How is this working with COVID and needing to make online reservations/tickets for these attractions rather than waiting in line?

Hey Rebecca, you’ll need to check with the Denver CityPASS website directly for info on COVID.

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Mile High on the Cheap

Your local resource for Denver freebies, discounts and deals

Denver CityPASS – Save Big On Tickets To Local Attractions

Photo courtesy Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Denver CityPASS tickets are flexible, allowing users to choose any three, four or five attractions from a list of seven options.

Costs vary, depending on the number of admissions selected. The ticket is delivered directly to the purchaser’s email, which can be saved to their smartphone and easily scanned at each attraction.

Designed to be both flexible and customizable, the tickets do NOT require the buyer to pre-select the attractions that will be visited; users are free to choose as they go.

You just have to visit all the attractions within a seven-day period (the clock starts when you visit the first attraction).

Photo courtesy Wings Over The Rockies

The list of attraction options includes:

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Denver Art Museum

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Downtown Aquarium

History Colorado Center

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Some attractions do require advance reservations for guests.

Photo courtesy Denver Art Museum

Pricing for Denver CityPASS tickets is based on the number of attractions you choose:

C3 (visit any three attractions): $46 , adults; $37 , children (ages 3-11)

C4 (visit any four attractions): $57 , adults; $46 , children (ages 3-11)

C5 (visit any five attractions): $64 , adults; $54 , children (ages 3-11)

2 comments on “ Denver CityPASS – Save Big On Tickets To Local Attractions ”

The prices posted on this article don’t match the prices on City Pass or Groupon. Is there an additional code I’m missing?

Kim, Sorry for the goof. When we updated the post, the new prices didn’t “stick”. We have updated it again to reflect the current prices if you buy through Groupon or CityPass. It’s still a great deal as the prices for local attractions have gone up as well. Looks like CityPass raised their prices by about $4 per ticket, so you save 43% over going to the attractions individually. — Laura

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17 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its outdoor offerings, its city life isn't one to pass up. Denver is home to numerous must-sees from museums and galleries to restaurants and breweries. Spend a few hours in Meow Wolf to experience an interactive and

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Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit in the fall for Glow at the Gardens, a Halloween festival complete with stunning (and spooky) light displays and epic pumpkin art. – Leilani Osmundson

The Denver Botanic Gardens' 24 acres feature a whopping 50 gardens for visitors to explore. This expansive facility in downtown Denver's Cheesman Park treats travelers to a variety of different environments, from a traditional Japanese garden (complete with bonsai trees) to the South African Plaza blooming with exotic plants like asparagus fern and torch lilies. Meanwhile, art aficionados will also appreciate the gardens thanks to the numerous sculptures that grace the grounds; the facility also plays host to touring exhibits that have included works by such artists as Stephen Talasnik and Dale Chihuly.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an essential experience in Denver. There's no such thing as a bad seat, either; in fact, the best views are in the back, where you can see stunning sunset views over the red rocks and city skyline. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

With its excellent views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of hiking trails and cinnamon-hued sandstone cliffs, Red Rocks Park is a big draw for outdoors enthusiasts. Occupying 700-some acres, this impressive park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating geographic transition between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. If you only have a short amount of time here, stretch your legs along the Trading Post Trail; this nearly 1 ½-mile-long path weaves through the rust-colored buttes, making for some spectacular scenery. Before you head out, travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center, which features information on the park’s history and trails.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Denver Museum of Nature & Science

With exhibits featuring everything from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science inspires learning in the young and young at heart. This impressive facility houses artifacts pertaining to a variety of scientific areas, including anthropology, zoology, geology, health sciences, paleontology and space science. Some of the more popular displays include the wildlife exhibit, which includes more than 90 habitat scenes containing information on animals from around the world, from Alaska to Australia. Meanwhile, the hands-on Space Odyssey area introduces travelers to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond. 

Recent visitors said the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a great place for families. A few reviewers who were not traveling with children said the museum may not be as engaging for adults as it is for kids because of the elementary nature of the displays. Many recent travelers were particularly impressed with the gems and minerals exhibit, which features artifacts like an 8-pound nugget of crystallized gold discovered in Breckenridge in 1887.

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U.S. News Insider Tip: Have breakfast at Snooze (a local chain), but get there early – there's almost always a line because the food is that good. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Denver's Union Station serves a dual purpose: it's a working public transit station and a highly-praised dining and shopping center. The station was a huge success when it first opened to the public in 1881, providing railroad service until the center of the building caught fire in 1894. The architecture from the 1914 redevelopment remains, and today, it's home to an Amtrak hub and a bus concourse. Located in the hip Lower Downtown neighborhood (aka LoDo), the station also houses multiple dining options and boutiques, as well as  The Crawford Hotel .

Meow Wolf Denver Meow Wolf Denver

U.S. News Insider Tip: Plan to spend several hours (at least two) here if you're hoping to see everything, and remember as you explore that there is an underlying storyline that connects all the exhibits and includes a mystery for visitors to unravel. – Leilani Osmundson

If you’re a fan of immersive art installations, you’ll probably enjoy Meow Wolf Denver, which is best described as a contemporary art museum, a haunted house, an amusement park and a film set all rolled into one 90,000-square-foot space. There are several Meow Wolf locations around the U.S., including Las Vegas and Santa Fe, New Mexico . Denver’s iteration is spread across four stories and features more than 70 distinctive installations that feature colorful lights, sounds and interactive displays. The largest permanent installation is the Convergence Station, a “multiverse transit station.”

Denver Zoo Denver Zoo

Modeled after a Kenyan nature preserve, the Denver Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including tigers, black rhinos, kangaroos and orangutans. Sprawling across 80 acres of City Park, this impressive facility boasts a number of ways to view our furry, feathered and reptilian friends. Head to Predator Ridge, the recreated African savanna, to see hyenas, lions and African dogs roam, watch monkeys swing from tree branches at Primate Panorama or catch a glimpse of colorful critters like Panamanian golden frogs and green tree pythons at the Tropical Discovery center. You can also overload on cute during a visit to the nursery and take on a ride on the zoo's train and carousel.

While you're here, many travelers highly recommend timing your visit around feeding times, during which staff offers educational lectures about the zoo's residents. Keep in mind that this is a large facility; you'll want to budget plenty of time to see all the animals.

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Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pay attention if you're in the flash flood simulation room – you might get wet! – Leilani Osmundson

Visit the AZA-accredited Downtown Aquarium to see more than 500 species of animals across a variety of ecosystems both underwater and on land (including tigers). In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium also boasts a Stingray Reef touch tank, a 4D theater, scuba and snorkel experiences, a shark cage experience, and in-person and virtual animal encounters. Kids can participate in a plethora of activities from a fun overnight stay to a five-day summer camp. Day programs for children include "Marine Biologist for a Day," which includes encounters with exotic species from the deep sea, as well as "Zoologist for a Day," where kids can learn how to handle and train animals that live outside the ocean.

Denver Art Museum Denver Art Museum

With galleries showcasing more than 70,000 works by famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Winslow Homer, the Denver Art Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of art between Chicago and the West Coast. Spread across two buildings, the museum's holdings range from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary displays with such mediums as painting  and sculpture represented. One of the highlights of a visit to the Denver Art Museum is its extensive assembly of western American art, which includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper related to the West going back two centuries.

Past visitors raved about the Denver Art Museum, praising its diverse and varied collections, especially its collection of western American art, and the museum's ability to appeal to kids through interactive activities. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that the museum is a popular stop on many of the best Denver tours .

Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver

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16th Street Mall 16th Street Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit Skyline Park (located at 15th and Arapahoe streets) in the summer for draft beers at Skyline Beer Garden and the winter for outdoor ice skating at the Downtown Denver Rink. – Leilani Osmundson

Walk along this mile-long pedestrian mall for restaurants, shops, entertainment and more. Described as "the spine that connects all of downtown," the mall starts with Union Station on the north end and the Colorado State Capitol on the south end, with attractions like the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Larimer Square and the Denver Pavilions – a shopping and dining complex with multiple movie theaters and pop-up events – along the way. If you've worked up an appetite walking around, you won't go hungry: There are more than 40 outdoor cafes throughout the mall, as well as plenty of casual, upscale and international eateries.

Coors Field Coors Field

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Take a seat in row 20 – the only purple row in the stadium – and you'll be sitting exactly one mile above sea level! –  Leilani Osmundson

Named for Denver's famed beer, Coors Field in Denver's LoDo district is home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies. The stadium occupies a whopping 76 acres and has the capacity for more than 50,000 fans. Of course, the main reason to come to Coors Field is to catch a game, but there's more to this stadium than a diamond. Whether you're traveling with children or alone, be sure to spend some time at the Interactive Area, where you can test your skills in the video batting cages and the Speed Pitch area. And if you've left the kids at home, take the opportunity to sample some of Denver's local brews on the Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot platform with fantastic views of the field and downtown Denver. If the weather isn't cooperating, pay a visit to the on-site SandLot brewery instead.

Washington Park Washington Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's not the easiest to find parking in Denver, but don't worry -- Wash Park has plenty of street parking, and it's easy to find a spot even during events. –  Leilani Osmundson

Located south of central Denver, Washington Park is consistently praised by Denverites and visitors alike for its ample facilities and enjoyable atmosphere. Occupying 155 acres, this immense park boasts miles of jogging paths, two massive lakes and two formal gardens, one of which is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon gardens. Wash Park, as it’s called by locals, is a popular weekend hangout spot thanks to the variety of things to do here. You can spend your time simply relaxing on the grass, or you can take advantage of the park's 10 tennis courts, boat rentals and recreation center, which houses a pool and offers scheduled fitness classes and swim lessons.

Larimer Square Larimer Square free

In 1858, a group of settlers struck gold at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Their discovery soon spread back to the East Coast, prompting people to pick up and move west. The site of the original pioneer camp (known back then as Auraria) soon grew into the charming area now known as Larimer Square. Although the city has since expanded, this historic neighborhood remains the heart and soul of the Mile High City, and according to some, it's the place to start your Denver experience thanks to its variety of restaurants, bars and shops. It's also a featured stop on many of the best Denver tours . 

Before venturing to Larimer Square, you may want to pay a visit to the Larimer Square  website . Here, you'll find a listing of all the local businesses and upcoming events, not to mention maps that can help orient where specific dining, shopping and entertainment options are.

Empower Field at Mile High Empower Field at Mile High

Football fans won't want to pass up the chance to spend some time on the Denver Broncos' home turf. Empower Field at Mile High can hold more than 76,000 NFL fans and is notable for its elevation, which sits at 5,280 feet above sea level. That, combined with the view of the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Denver skyline to the east, makes it a unique venue to visit.

If you can swing it, try to catch a home game. Ticket prices vary by game and availability, and you'll want to purchase your seats well in advance to ensure availability. If you can't make it to a game, you can tag along on a guided tour of the stadium. Led by employees from the on-site Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum (one of the stops on the tour), these 75- to 90-minute tours take participants to the visiting teams' locker rooms, the end zone as well as into the network television production compound and the TV and radio broadcast facilities. Recent visitors described the tour experience as incredible thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver

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Molly Brown House Museum Molly Brown House Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Though you can explore the museum on your own, a guided tour is vastly more educational. Register for a late morning tour and then walk to The Corner Beet after for tasty juices and brunch options. – Leilani Osmundson

Nestled among the contemporary architecture of the Capitol Hill district is the Molly Brown House Museum, an eccentric example of Victorian life and design that no history buff should miss. Once the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown (Kathy Bates' character in the film, "Titanic,"), this museum offers a glimpse into Denver's history and the life of one of its most fascinating residents. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about Brown's experience aboard the Titanic, as well as her role in the women's suffrage movement and her endeavors in Colorado's mining industry.

Elitch Gardens Elitch Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the park in winter for its Luminova Holidays event and don't forget to bring your camera; there are plenty of beautiful holiday light displays for photo opportunities, and some rides are open as well. – Leilani Osmundson

Open first as actual gardens as well as a zoological park in 1890, the long-running Elitch Gardens now boasts a theme park, a water park, entertainment and more. At the theme park, fly 17 stories above Denver on the Star Flyer swing ride, or dive and spin at 50 mph speeds on the Mind Eraser coaster. If thrills aren't your thing, you'll find plenty of more relaxing rides and activities in both the theme and water park, such as the Commotion Ocean wave pool and Castaway Creek lazy river.

United States Mint United States Mint free

Even if you hate the sound of excess change rattling around your pockets, you'll find a tour of the Denver branch of the United States Mint to be an interesting way to spend an hour or so. Having opened in 1863, its purpose was to transform the Gold Rush's findings into coinage. Today, the U.S. Mint in Denver can produce up to 50 million coins a day.

A free guided tour of the U.S. Mint in Denver will allow you the opportunity to learn more about each stage of coin production, from the design and sculpting of each piece to the cutting of each type of coin. Some recent visitors marveled at the coin-making machines, but say that not all travelers will likely find it enthralling.

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum

Housed in a hangar on the former Lowry Air Force Base in eastern Denver, this museum has more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space that explores the history of the base's role in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War. A variety of iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts and military uniforms are on display. The collection includes bombers from World War II, reconnaissance aircraft and commercial planes. One of the most iconic symbols of the Vietnam War – the Bell UH-1M Iroquois “Huey” – is among the displays. 

Past visitors enjoyed seeing the variety of aircraft and especially the replicas of “Star Wars” spacecraft. About 20 miles south of the museum is its sister location, the Exploration of Flight, which offers visitors a more immersive experience. They include a pilot simulator and actual flights in vintage and modern aircraft. The 15-acre site is located at Centennial Field, about 20 miles south of downtown Denver.

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The 50 Best Hikes in Colorado

From flower-filled meadows to deep red-rock canyons to the tip-top of the state, these footpaths take you where you want to go. Let the debate begin!

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We tapped seasoned hikers, consulted guidebooks, pored over topo maps, and scrutinized our trail photos to bring you this manual to our home’s most impressive footpaths, all of which are Class 3 or easier during peak season. The result: We’ve got all the purple mountain majesties you could want, not to mention red-rock canyons, wildflower-filled meadows, gushing waterfalls, and golden aspen groves, too.

Behold, the 50 best hikes in Colorado.

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Jump Ahead:

Best peakbagging hikes, best alpine hikes, best lake hikes, best waterfall hikes, best river hike, best hot springs hike, best wildflower hikes, best fall foliage hikes, best hikes for viewing wildlife, best canyon hikes.

• Best Dune Hike

Read More: The 10 Hiking Essentials, Colorado-Style

1. Mt. Elbert

• Nearest Town : Twin Lakes
• Trailhead : South Elbert (high-clearance vehicles can start 1.8 miles farther up FSR 125B) in Pike-San Isabel National Forests
• Peak Season : Year-round (be prepared for deep snow and cold temps in winter)
• Permit : None

There’s no other view like the one from the tip-top of the state: 14,439-foot Mt. Elbert, where the rest of the broad-shouldered Sawatch Range unfurls beneath your feet in all directions. Of the two main routes to the summit, we prefer the South Mt. Elbert Trail, which is nontechnical but strenuous, gaining 4,800 feet in 5.8 miles. “It’s prettier, with better views” compared with the standard approach, says the Leadville Ranger District’s Leo Pareti. “There’s more area above treeline, and you get to see all the additional peaks for the majority of the hike.” Make it an easier alpine start by crashing at one of the free dispersed campsites near the trailhead.

2. Lizard Head Loop

• Nearest Town : Telluride
• Trailhead : Lizard Head Pass (the loop ends at the Cross Mountain trailhead , then you’ll have a road walk back to your car) for Lizard Head Wilderness
• Peak Season : July through September

Actually summiting Lizard Head Peak—a thirteener crowned with a 400-foot-tall, crumbly volcanic neck that’s considered one of Colorado’s sketchiest climbs—requires serious mountaineering chops. But the rest of us can hike to its base on the 11.5-mile Lizard Head Loop, a strenuous trail with views aplenty of the formidable tower, plus grassy meadows and a ridgeline walk across roughly 12,100-foot Black Face.

3. Decalibron Loop

• Nearest Town : Alma
• Trailhead : Kite Lake ($5 to park) in Pike-San Isabel National Forests
• Permit : None, but you must e-sign a waiver at the trailhead via a QR code

Tag not one, not two, not three, but four fourteener summits in a mere seven miles on this lofty circuit that connects Mts. Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross (technically, you have to skirt the top of Bross to avoid private land, but we say count it). An update to the Colorado Recreational Use Statute in March means the summits, some of which are privately owned and have been restricted in the past due to fears of lawsuits, should remain open to the public. And that’s a good thing for those who love a good circuit—just keep in mind that the downhill path from Mt. Bross is a knee-pounding scree field .

4. Mt. Alice

• Nearest Town : Allenspark
• Trailhead : Wild Basin ($30/vehicle for one day; $35/vehicle for seven days) in Rocky Mountain National Park
• Permit : In 2024, a timed-entry reservation ($2) is required to enter most areas of Rocky Mountain National Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. until October 14; try to snag one on recreation.gov at 7 p.m. the night before you want to hike.

The journey is every bit as good as the destination on this deep-wilderness hike, where you’ll savor wildflowers, four waterfalls, and superb lake views on the seven-mile approach to Lion Lake No. 1. From there, venture off-trail to the northwest to pass two more lakes and scramble Class 2+ Hourglass Ridge to Alice’s 13,310-foot summit for a 17-mile round-tripper. Tip: The closest campsites are at Thunder Lake, about a four-mile hike from Lion Lake No. 1.

5. Boulder Skyline Traverse

• Nearest Town : Boulder
• Trailhead : Lehigh Connector (south) and Goat Path (north) in Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks
• Peak Season : Year-round (be prepared for ice and snow in the winter)

Boulder’s peaks may be foothills, but the town’s finest hiking route boasts stats that bury most trips in the true alpine zone: 16.5 miles (one way; leaving a shuttle car at one end is key), 12,000-plus feet of elevation change, and five separate summits. Start with the stout climb up 8,461-foot Bear Peak and finish with a push up 6,863-foot Mt. Sanitas, tagging South Boulder Peak, Green Mountain, and Flagstaff Mountain along the way. Boulder merit badge, earned.

6. Longs Peak

• Trailhead : Longs Peak  ($30/vehicle for one day; $35/vehicle for seven days) in Rocky Mountain National Park
• Peak Season : July through mid-September

If you’re experienced in the mountains, this 15-mile journey —from the predawn start to the sunrise on the Boulderfield to the harrowing scramble through the Keyhole to the hand-over-hand climbing up the Homestretch to the 14,259-foot summit—is quintessential Colorado peakbagging. Scoring a site at Longs Peak Campground ($30 per night) takes the sting out of your alpine start.

7. Chief Mountain

• Nearest Town : Idaho Springs
• Trailhead : Chief Mountain in Arapaho National Forest

Chief is “the best bang for your buck,” says Stacey Halvorsen, chief education officer for the Colorado Mountain Club, an outdoor recreation and conservation nonprofit. You get the same high-mountain views that you do if you’re climbing a 13,000-foot peak, she says, but with just 1.4 miles to hike (one way), it feels like cheating. Vistas from Chief’s 11,713-foot apex encompass skyscrapers such as 14,265-foot Mt. Blue Sky and 13,361-foot Rogers Peak.

8. Mt. Audubon

• Nearest Town : Ward
• Trailhead : Mitchell Lake ($14/vehicle plus a $2 reservation fee for timed parking reservation; get them at recreation.gov at least 15 days in advance) for Indian Peaks Wilderness
• Peak Season : July through October
• Permit : A backpacking permit is required from June 1 to September 15; $11/person; recreation.gov.

Many mountaineers have kicked off their climbing resumés on this Indian Peaks standout. High enough (13,222 feet, with about 2,000 feet of gain) to deliver a bona fide challenge but with a clear trail and moderate distance (7.6 miles round trip), Audubon serves as the perfect bridge between foothills hikes and technical high-country ascents.

• Nearest Town : Estes Park
• Trailhead : Chapin Creek ($30/vehicle for one day; $35/vehicle for seven days) in Rocky Mountain National Park

It’s all tundra, (almost) all the time on this 8.5-mile (round trip), triple-play hike in the lesser-traveled yet gorgeous Mummy Range. You’ll pop out above treeline in less than a half-mile and stay there as you tag 12,455-foot Mt. Chapin, 13,054-foot Mt. Chiquita, and 13,515-foot Ypsilon Mountain, three walk-up peaks with views over a remote lake basin.

10. San Luis Peak

• Nearest Town : Creede
• Trailhead : Eddiesville South for La Garita Wilderness

Get out there— way out there—atop this far-flung giant. San Luis’ remote location means you’re in for an overnight or a long day, but the terrain is straightforward, and the quiet is rare on a fourteener like this. Approach via the longer route (20 miles round trip), on the Continental Divide Trail and up Cochetopa Creek, for the best camping.

Read More: Colorado’s 6 Most Action-Packed Mountain Ranges

Back to top.

11. Vestal Basin

• Nearest Town : Silverton
• Trailhead : Elk Park Trail for Weminuche Wilderness ( train tickets start at $97 per person for round-trip fare plus a $15 backpack fee per person)
• Permit : Free, self-issued permits are available at the Molas Pass trailhead.

No official trail leads to this dreamy base camp at 12,000 feet, leaving its natural assets to those with the route-finding skills to get there. Trust us, it’s worth a little compass work: Up here, a horizon of Grenadier Range thirteeners (including pyramidal Vestal and Arrow Peaks and the spiky Trinity Peaks) cradles little Vestal Lake and its even tinier siblings, offering at least a weekend’s worth of exploration. “There’s so much back there,” says Jon Kedrowski, author of Classic Colorado Hikes . “There’s good hiking to the upper valley lakes, and you can access everything from a Class 2+ scramble up the back of Vestal Peak to the classic Wham Ridge, a Class 5.”

Hop on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Elk Park, then take the Colorado Trail to an unmarked path pointing south that’ll get you headed in the right direction; it’s 11 total miles to Vestal Basin, one way.

12. Indian Trail Ridge

• Nearest Town : Durango
• Trailhead : Kennebec Pass in San Juan National Forest
• Permit: None

Start high, stay high on this beaut of a ridgeline: The Colorado Trail (aka the Highline Trail right here) never dips below 11,500 feet as it traces a blocky spine strewn with flowers. That means a constant tableau of everything from the pinkish-purple San Juan Mountains to La Plata massif’s pointy-topped bulk. Turn around at the Grindstone Trail junction for an 11.4-miler. Tackle the 20-mile Highline Loop, which tacks on the Grindstone, Bear Creek, and Sharkstooth trails, for a multiday tour de force of alpine splendor.

Read More: The Best of the Colorado Trail: Stony Pass to Durango

13. Pawnee Pass & Crater Lake

• Trailhead : Long Lake ($14/vehicle plus a $2 reservation fee for timed parking reservation; get them at recreation.gov at least 15 days in advance) for Indian Peaks Wilderness
• Permit : You’ll need one to camp at Crater Lake ($11 at recreation.gov)

Like a kid’s drawing of a mountain come to life, Lone Eagle Peak rises above Crater Lake in a perfectly pointy triangle. For a 17-mile round trip , take Pawnee Pass Trail over its 12,541-foot namesake (where you can see teeny Denver to the southeast) to a Crater Lake campsite. Keep an eye out for moose munching on grasses along Cascade Creek at dawn and dusk.

Read More: The 4 Best Backpacking Trips in the Indian Peaks

14. Zirkel Circle

• Nearest Town : Clark
• Trailhead : Slavonia ($5 to park) for Mt. Zirkel Wilderness

In one day, you can link alpine meadows dotted with glacier lilies and yellow arnica, flowy waterfalls, a pair of peak-ringed lakes (Gilpin and Gold Creek lakes), and a nearly 11,000-foot pass with views of Big Agnes Peak and Mt. Zirkel. Most hikers do the 10.4-mile loop counterclockwise for the best views and fewer steep climbs.

Read More: 4 Expert-Level Colorado Trail Running Loops

15. Twin Crater Lakes–Camp Lakes Loop

• Nearest Town : Rustic
• Trailhead : West Branch for Rawah Wilderness
• Peak Season : July through September for drier trails and easier stream crossings

The Rawah encompasses a slice of the southern Medicine Bow Mountains that’s thick with flowery meadows, wildlife such as moose and black bears, and so many lakes nobody’s bothered to name them all. Tour the goods on this 18.9-mile loop connecting Twin Crater Lakes, a pair of 11,000-foot tarns cradled under Rawah Pyramid, and Camp Lakes, with 11,200-foot Grassy Pass and at least six other lakes in between. Pro tip: Pack your fly rod .

16. Devils Causeway Loop

• Nearest Town : Yampa
• Trailhead : Stillwater Reservoir for Flat Tops Wilderness
• Peak Season : June through November

You’ll need to summon some serious courage to walk this trail’s tightrope of terror: The aptly named Devils Causeway is a 50-foot-long, three-foot-wide rock rib flanked by 60- to 80-foot drops, but it’s a flat, nontechnical hike to cross (just don’t slip). Test your balance—and your mettle—on this 10.7-mile loop starting on East Forks Trail and returning via Bear River Trail. Not into balance beams? You can always turn around before the catwalk begins for a roughly five-mile out and back; we promise we won’t judge.

17. Crag Crest National Recreation Trail

• Nearest Town : Cedaredge
• Trailhead : East (steeper) or West in Grand Mesa National Forest

In the hiking world, ridge-walking is as good as it gets: all the views, very little of the climbing. You will have to gain a bit of elevation to get to the signature crest on this 10.3-mile loop, but once up there, you’ll cruise the ridge for three gorgeous miles, drinking in vistas ranging from the Book Cliffs to the West Elks to the San Juans.

18. Gore Lake–Deluge Lake Loop

• Nearest Town : Vail
• Trailhead : Gore Creek in White River National Forest
• Peak Season : June through October
• Permit : Free, self-issued permits are available at the wilderness boundary sign

Wild, burly, and host to more mountain goats than people, the Gore Range is known for epic mountaineering routes, but this 13.1-mile loop linking Gore, Snow, and Deluge lakes is accessible to mere hikers—as long as you don’t mind a little off-trail travel to connect Gore and Snow (this is the Gore, after all). You’ll skirt aquamarine lakes ringed with thirteeners, traipse high-elevation meadows, and scramble the pass above Deluge Lake.

19.  Four Pass Loop

• Nearest Town : Aspen
• Trailhead : West Maroon ($10/vehicle reservations are required for parking at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area from mid-May through October or $20 for round-trip RFTA shuttle rides day-of from late May through October at aspenchamber.org) for Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
• Permit : Required for each night of backpacking, $10/person/night plus $6 reservation fee (recreation.gov)

This world-famous trip distills the best of Colorado’s high country—12,000-plus-foot passes, wildflowers for days, jagged peaks reflected in glittering lakes—into 26 miles of mountain perfection. The trip starts with knockout views of the magenta-hued Maroon Bells above Maroon Lake, and it only gets better from there.

20. Lost Man Pass

• Nearest Towns : Twin Lakes and Aspen
• Trailhead : Linkins Lake for Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness (you’ll end at Lost Man Reservoir trailhead, a four-mile walk or shuttle west along CO-82 from your vehicle)

This trek strings together three idyllic lakes—Linkins, Independence, and Lost Man—and a lovely reservoir in roughly nine miles in the high-country heaven off of Independence Pass. You’ll go up and over 12,800-foot Lost Man Pass, which grants views of crinkled ridges cradling Lost Man Lake, along the way.

Read More: 10 Great Alpine Lake Hikes in Colorado

21. Lily Lake

• Nearest Town : Walsenburg
• Trailhead : Upper Huerfano/Lily Lake (high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle required) for Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

About 3.4 miles from the trailhead, Lily Lake perches like an infinity pool on the edge of a cliff, cradled in a basin rimmed by lonely thirteeners and mirroring 14,055-foot Mt. Lindsey from across the valley. The region’s other giants, such as 14,350-foot Blanca Peak and 14,057-foot Ellingwood Point, loom large as you trace the Huerfano Valley south then make the final push to your private alpine shoreline.

22. Sky Pond

• Trailhead : Glacier Gorge ($30/vehicle for one day; $35/vehicle for seven days) in Rocky Mountain National Park

Sky Pond sits in its 10,800-foot cirque like the prettiest pearl on a necklace, the highest of a chain of beautiful lakes and waterfalls pouring down from the high country. One of the park’s most striking features, the granite minarets of the Cathedral Spires, rises steeply to the northwest, and thirteeners Taylor Peak and Powell Peak guard its western and southern shores. The 4.5-mile (one way) trail passes two waterfalls (30-foot Alberta Falls and 100-foot Timberline Falls) and two other lakes (the Loch and Lake of Glass) to boot.

23. Blue Lakes Trail

• Nearest Town : Ridgway
• Trailhead : Northern Blue Lakes for Mt. Sneffels Wilderness
• Permit : At press time, the Uncompahgre National Forest was considering a permit system; check the latest regulations before you go.

They weren’t kidding when they named this trio of high alpine lakes resting in the shadow of 14,155-foot Mt. Sneffels: Glacial sediment turns their waters an unreal shade of cobalt. An approximately eight-mile round-trip trek hits all three.

24. Willow Lake

• Nearest Town : Crestone
• Trailhead : Willowbrook for Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

Colorado is blessed with an embarrassment of scenic alpine lakes, but here’s one with a little something extra: Willow Falls, a lacy ribbon pouring off the cliff face on Willow Lake’s eastern edge. Climb 4.5 miles and 2,586 feet into the hanging valley that holds Willow. It’s another 1.3 miles to Upper Willow Lake.

25. Fancy Pass Lake Loop

• Nearest Town : Red Cliff
• Trailhead : Missouri Lakes/Fancy Pass for Holy Cross Wilderness

This 10-mile circuit lets you ogle Fancy, Treasure Vault, and Missouri lakes from all angles. The roller-coaster route crosses flowery meadows, passes through mini canyons, and tops out on two passes.

26. Upper Fish Creek Falls

• Nearest Town : Steamboat Springs
• Trailhead : Fish Creek Falls ($5 to park) in Routt National Forest
• Peak Season : Year-round (expect ice and snow in winter); the Forest Service typically closes the first bridge during high runoff, so call ahead in spring to check conditions.

Most hikers turn around at 283-foot Fish Creek Falls , a quarter-mile into this trail, but true adventurers are just getting started. Continue another 2.5 miles through a conifer forest pocked with aspen groves, steadily gaining elevation as you skirt the edge of a bouldery canyon. Your final destination: Upper Fish Creek Falls, a 20- to 30-foot cascade that’s smaller than its downstream sibling but, with its wild setting and solitude, an arguably more beautiful one. “Go early in the day, when it’s cooler,” says Katie Hughes, director of marketing and e-commerce for the Steamboat-based camping brand Big Agnes. “The trail is more exposed at the top, and the spray from the falls will feel amazing.”

27. Bridal Veil Falls Trail

• Trailhead : Bridal Veil Trail in Uncompahgre National Forest
• Peak Season : April through October

The two waterfalls you’ll pass first on this new-in-2020 trail are mere warm-ups for the real showstopper: 365-foot Bridal Veil Falls, the state’s tallest by a wide margin. Grunt up almost 1,000 feet in 1.2 miles to reach the base of the waterfall, which careens off the edge of a towering cliff in dramatic fashion.

28. Zapata Falls

• Nearest Town : Alamosa
• Trailhead : Zapata Falls in Zapata Falls Special Recreation Management Area
• Peak Season : Year-round (expect ice and cold temps in winter)

Most waterfalls show off, but not Zapata: You have to splash up slippery South Zapata Creek to get a good look at the 25-foot gusher tucked deep into an ebony gorge. Hike roughly half a mile to get into the canyon’s refreshing spray zone. Also superlative: a winter visit to the frozen cascade.

Read More: 28 of the Best Waterfall Hikes in Colorado

29. Piedra River Trail

• Nearest Town : Pagosa Springs
• Trailhead : First Fork (start); Piedra River (end) in San Juan National Forest
• Peak Season : May through October

Box canyons, aspen groves, and fishing opps aplenty: There’s a little bit of everything on this 11.2-mile (one way) riverside ramble along the banks of the Piedra. Explore the whole thing on a point-to-point hike starting from the southwest for the best views.

30. Conundrum Hot Springs

• Trailhead : Conundrum Creek for Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness

The 8.5-mile approach, which gradually climbs 2,500 feet through the lush Conundrum Creek Valley’s aspen stands and meadows, with views of the surrounding thirteeners and fourteeners, would be stunning enough. The fact that there’s a natural hot spring waiting at its terminus is almost gilding the lily (not that we’re complaining). Soaking your tired feet in the steamy Conundrum Hot Springs pools as alpenglow paints the Elk Range pink is a Colorado life-list experience. Make it an overnight at one of the forested campsites below the springs.

31. Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass

• Nearest Town : Crested Butte or Aspen
• Trailhead : West Maroon ($10/vehicle reservations are required for parking at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area from mid-May through October or $20 for round-trip RFTA shuttle rides day-of from late May through October at aspenchamber.org) for Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. It costs $55/person for a shuttle from Crested Butte to West Maroon trailhead; it’s $90/person for a shuttle back to Crested Butte from Aspen (crestedbutteshuttle.com).
• Peak Season : Mid-July to mid-August for flowers; the trail is usually snow-free into September

A unique alchemy of geology, temperature, and moisture comes together in the Elk Range to produce the state’s most dazzling wildflower display , and the best trail to immerse yourself in the blooms is this 11-miler. David Kish, executive director of the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, says the stretch on the Crested Butte side is particularly special. “Waist-high wildflowers for four or five miles—it’s the prettiest place I’ve seen in my life,” he says. Or start on the Aspen side for a more gradual climb to 12,490-foot West Maroon Pass, then get ready for a riot of columbine, paintbrush, blue flax, alpine sunflowers, and larkspur. You’ll need to book a shuttle to the trailhead, then hike back for a repeat performance (or arrange for a shuttle ride back).

32. Rustler Gulch

• Nearest Town : Crested Butte
• Trailhead : Rustler Gulch (high-clearance vehicle recommended; other cars can park about a mile away near the East River) in Gunnison National Forest

Wildflowers decorate the meadows along this moderate, seven-mile out-and-back like handfuls of rainbow confetti. Just make sure to look up once in a while to enjoy views of 13,378-foot Precarious Peak at the valley’s head.

33. Cooper Lake

• Nearest Town : Lake City
• Trailhead : Cooper Creek in Red Cloud Peak Wilderness Study Area
• Peak Season : June through October, but July and August have the best flowers.

Fourteeners Redcloud and Sunshine peaks draw most of the hikers in these parts, leaving the abundance of columbine, elephant’s head, and fireweed blooms along Cooper Creek all for you. Follow the Cooper Creek valley through pine forests and prime wildflower meadows, then push up the final, steep mile to serene Cooper Lake at 12,750 feet for an eight-mile out-and-back.

Read More: 5 Unbelievable Wildflower Hikes in Colorado

34. Horse Ranch Park Loop

• Trailhead : Horse Ranch Park in Gunnison National Forest
• Peak Season : June through October, with the best fall color from late September to early October

There’s no better place to marvel at Colorado’s famed aspen foliage than the largest grove in the state, found on Kebler Pass. The vast golden forest is actually a single organism—one of the largest in the world. Wrap your head around that fact on this moderate six-mile loop connecting the Dark Canyon and Dyke Mountain Bike trails, which delve into the grove’s heart yet still treat you to peekaboo views of Ruby Peak and the Beckwith Mountains.

35. West Bench Trail

• Nearest Town : Mesa
• Trailhead : West Bench in Grand Mesa National Forest

There’s no tricky terrain here: This mellow, mostly flat path cruises along at about 9,800 feet, leaving you free to daydream under a spectacular canopy of rustling aspen leaves. Turn around at the first ski lift at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, just below the bench, for a 7.4-mile round trip.

36. Raccoon Trail

• Nearest Town : Rollinsville
• Trailhead : Raccoon ($10/vehicle) in Golden Gate Canyon State Park
• Peak Season : June through November, but September and October offer peak color.

Aspens steal the show come fall on this moderate, 2.5-mile loop through several stands, plus a spruce-fir forest, with a spectacular view of the Continental Divide from Panorama Point.

Read More: The Best Fall Dayhikes Near Denver

37. Cub Lake Loop

• Trailhead : Cub Lake (start; $30/vehicle for one day; $35/vehicle for seven days) in Rocky Mountain National Park; Fern Lake (end); from May to October, the free park shuttle can take you back to the Cub Lake trailhead.
• Peak Season : Year-round, but visit in September and October for the rut.

Few animal sightings are as quintessentially Rocky Mountain as the elk in Colorado’s most popular park. Every fall, the broad-antlered ungulates gather en masse in valleys like Moraine Park for their annual rut (aka mating season). Cub Lake Trail traces the western edge of this elk hot spot, granting excellent wildlife watching (stay at least 75 feet away, for their safety and yours). Continue to Cub Lake, then connect to Fern Lake Trail for an 8.5-mile loop, including the short spur up to Fern Lake that offers another kind of wildlife encounter: trout fishing in the Big Thompson River.

38. Upper Piney River Trail

• Trailhead : Upper Piney River for Eagles Nest Wilderness

Moose love to hang out in Piney Lake (their smaller cousins, elk and mule deer, also make frequent appearances), and bald eagles and peregrine falcons often soar over Upper Piney River Trail. You’ll pass multitiered Piney River Falls at mile three and continue along the unmaintained trail for a chance to spot even rarer creatures. “I’ve seen black bears, mountain goats, and even a mountain lion one time,” says Classic Colorado Hikes author Kedrowski. The round-trip hike, a straightforward cross-country journey that ends at Kneeknocker Pass, is about nine miles.

39. Main Canyon

• Nearest Town : Palisade
• Trailhead : Coal Canyon in Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Range
• Peak Season : May through September, but fall has the best weather.

More than 100 colorful wild horses—blue and red roans, paints, palominos, and Appaloosas—roam these chunky orange canyons, and the odds of seeing them are very good on the 11.6-mile round-trip hike up Main Canyon. Beyond laying eyes on the mustangs, you’ll also enjoy mesa views framed by steep canyon walls.

Read More: Camping with Colorado’s Wild Horses

40. Abyss Lake

• Nearest Town : Grant
• Trailhead : Abyss Lake for Mount Evans Wilderness
• Permit : Free, self-issued permits are available at the trailhead.

This one’s a twofer. One, your chances of spotting the lake’s resident bighorn sheep and mountain goats tiptoeing on ledges in its rocky cirque are good. Two, the aspen-peeping gets real a couple of miles in. It’s a stiff 8.1 miles to Abyss Lake, a tarn tucked between Mt. Bierstadt and Mt. Blue Sky, so this trip is best done as an overnight. Pitch a tent near Helms Lake.

41. Big Dominguez & Little Dominguez Canyons

• Nearest Town : Delta
• Trailhead : Bridgeport in Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area
• Peak Season : April through June and September through November

Big and Little D are the stuff of canyon country postcards: soaring sandstone walls, ancient petroglyph panels, and desert bighorn sheep picking their ways along red-rock cliffs. These canyons are just a few miles apart, but the terrain makes connecting them in a loop difficult. Instead, start by exploring Big Dominguez’s panels of Ute and Archaic petroglyphs, camping anywhere beyond the first three miles (both canyons are about 15 miles long). Then backtrack to Little Dominguez, which sees a fraction of its big sibling’s visitation numbers, for another night out under the stars.

42. Rattlesnake Arches

• Nearest Town : Fruita
• Trailhead : Pollock Bench in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
• Peak Season : March through June for moderate temps and higher likelihood (although it’s not a guarantee) of finding water to filter along the way; September and October are also temperate, but you’ll have to carry all of the H2O you’ll need.

Let the crowds go to Utah—we have a trove of rock arches right here. McInnis Canyons boasts the second-highest concentration of natural stone spans in North America, most of them in a cluster within Rattlesnake Canyon: punched-out Hole in the Bridge Arch, delicate Centennial Arch, and 120-foot-high Rattlesnake Arch among them. Getting there is, of course, part of the fun. The strenuous, 15.5-mile round-tripper requires scrambling up and down four- to five-foot cliffs and navigating steep slickrock.

43. Pinyon Draw

• Nearest Town : Crawford
• Trailhead : North Rim Campground ($30/vehicle for seven days) in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Peak Season : May through October (the North Rim Road closes during the winter and early spring)
• Permit : Limited, free permits are required for both day and overnight hikes into the inner canyon; pick one up at the visitor center or ranger station.

Calling this vertiginous scramble to the bottom of Black Canyon a hike is a stretch. It’s more like falling down 1,800 feet in 1.75 miles with style. If that weren’t enough of a challenge, the route also throws chest-high poison ivy at anyone who dares descend. Your reward for such suffering? Utter solitude, gold-medal trout fishing in the Gunnison River, and unbelievable stargazing, should you choose to make a night of it down there.

Read More: A First-Timer’s Guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

44. Irish Canyon Petroglyph Trail

• Nearest Town : Maybell
• Trailhead : Irish Canyon (off Moffat County Road 10N) in Irish Canyon Area of Critical Environmental Concern
• Peak Season : Year-round

Isolation is a given in this ultra-remote canyon in far northwestern Colorado, and the effort-to-reward ratio is off the charts. The super-short (less than half a mile), flat, and fully accessible loop grants an up-close look at a petroglyph panel from the Fremont people, who lived in these parts from roughly 300 to 1300 C.E.

45. Gates of Lodore Trail

• Trailhead : Gates of Lodore Campground in Dinosaur National Monument

The plunging cliff walls that guard the entrance to Lodore Canyon, aka the Gates, force the Green River to a dramatic pinch point at the north end of this wild gorge. Stroll this easy, one-mile round-trip trail for a front-seat view over jade river waters to the natural fortress.

46. Petroglyph Point Trail

• Nearest Town : Cortez
• Trailhead : Spruce Tree House Overlook ($30/vehicle for seven days, May 1 to October 22; $20/vehicle for seven days, October 23 to April 30) in Mesa Verde National Park
• Peak Season : Year-round; hike in the morning in the summer for more comfortable temperatures, and wear traction for snow and ice in the winter months.

Walk in the footsteps of the Ancestral Puebloans—quite literally, as this trail was once a path frequented by the Spruce Tree House community—on this scrambly, 2.4-mile loop to a 35-foot-wide petroglyph panel. You’ll navigate steep drop-offs, slither between boulders, peer into Spruce and Navajo canyons, and Spiderman up a stone staircase en route.

Read More: Unlocking the Secrets of Mesa Verde National Park

47. No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail

• Nearest Town : Grand Junction
• Trailhead : Devils Kitchen ($25/vehicle for seven days) in Colorado National Monument
• Peak Season : March through October, but spring rains can make for a mucky hike; check the monument’s website for conditions.

Bask in this desert oasis during the spring, when a series of waterfalls form in this quiet canyon filled with bighorn sheep. It’s a moderate, four-mile (round-trip) jaunt to the second cascade, which burbles over a striated rock wall. Warning: Flash floods are possible here; hike only during clear weather.

48. Big Hole Wash–Bent Rock Loop

• Nearest Town : Wellington
• Trailhead : Red Mountain Open Space parking lot
• Peak Season : The park is open March through November, but March through May and October through November bring the best hiking weather.

What’s more incredible—the soaring red-rock formations and curvy canyons on this easy 5.2-mile loop or the fact that you’ll have it all to yourself? Find out by linking the Sinking Sun, Big Hole, Ruby Wash, and Bent Rock trails at this secluded high grassland preserve.

49. Perkins Central Garden Trail

• Nearest Town : Colorado Springs
• Trailhead : Garden of the Gods

Wander among the highest and most fantastical of the garden’s rusty red fins, spires, and towers on this flat, 1.5-mile, fully ADA-accessible loop. From the Tower of Babel to the Kissing Camels to the stegosauruslike South Gateway Rock, the gang’s all here. And since this park, owned by the city of Colorado Springs, rests at the relatively low elevation of 6,400 feet, the gang can include your favorite flatlanders, too.

Read More: The (Not-So-Touristy) Guide to Garden of the Gods

50. The Dunefield

• Nearest Town : Mosca
• Trailhead : Dunes Parking Lot ($25/car for seven days) in Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
• Peak Season : Year-round, but September and October have the best weather.

Smack between the high-desert grasslands of the San Luis Valley and the snow-topped Sangre de Cristos, you’ll find the unlikeliest sight in Colorado: a Sahara-style ocean of sand . This 30-square-mile field of shifting sands holds the tallest dunes in North America. There are no trails here, just sinuous, sandy ridgelines to follow and pyramidal dune summits to climb—but if you need a destination, 736-foot Star Dune, a six-mile round-trip hike, makes for a full day in the sandbox.

Read More: How to Backpack in Great Sand Dunes National Park

You can’t shine as brilliantly as these trails do without attracting attention. Many of them are no secret, and some are downright mobbed. When visiting these beloved paths, you can dodge some of the crowds by going in the offseason and/or arriving at the trailhead early. Carpool and take hiker shuttles when possible, and brush up on Leave No Trace principles  to keep these showstoppers healthy. If a hike requires a permit, remember that you might not get one the first time you try. Don’t give up.

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