Top 19 Outdoor Activities in Denver

Head to Confluence Park for a wild ride down the South Platte River. Just a short drive from downtown, stop at Denver’s ultimate paddling shop to rent a kayak and brave the river’s custom-designed chutes. Confluence Kayaks will get you suited up with everything you need and even offers lessons for first-timers or those looking to strengthen their paddling skills. If kayaking isn’t your thing, opt for a river tube, stand-up paddleboard, or canoe rental.

The Downtown Aquarium’s “Swim with the Sharks” experience lets you get up close and personal with various underwater species, including Sand Tiger sharks, Brown sharks, Zebra sharks, and sawfish. You’ll dive into a 400,000-gallon tank designed to be a recreated shipwreck while the sharks swim alongside. A professional dive master will provide you with a wetsuit, snorkel, and scuba gear and guide you through the experience to ensure your safety. The experience is designed for certified scuba divers, but there’s also a snorkel option for those without certification. Anyone aged six and up can participate in this thrilling experience for the entire family. 

Visit the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre for a day of outdoor fun. While it’s known for its legendary concerts and performances, the park is also a must-visit hiking and biking destination. With multiple trails of varying difficulty to explore, anyone can come along for the adventure. Take it easy on the one-mile Geological Overlook Trail, explore the famous rock formations on the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail, or head deep into the park on the six-mile out-and-back Red Rocks Trail. If cycling is more your thing, grab your bike and head down to nearby Matthew Winters Park to hit the extensive biking trail system.

Located just 20 minutes from downtown, Geo Tours offers a thrilling whitewater rafting journey you won’t want to miss. Grab the family and head out on an exciting journey down one of Colorado’s top rivers. Choose between an easy-going float or a heart-pumping adventure through class III to IV rapids. An experienced guide will outfit you with everything you need to take on the rapids before you hop on a raft for a journey you’ll never forget. Geo Tours offers a variety of adventures to fit your skill level and schedule, from quick rips down the river to multi-day trips.

Grab your bike and head to Cherry Creek Trail for a 40-mile adventure through Denver. The trail begins at Confluence Park and stretches all the way down to Franktown. You’ll start your adventure in the Cherry Creek neighborhood, known as one of the top shopping destinations in the city. As you bike along, you’ll pass parks, greenery, and historic sites worth hopping off for. Keep going, and you’ll see photo-worthy views of the rolling landscapes and local wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely bike ride or an all-day adventure, Cherry Creek Trail is the perfect way to explore Denver’s outdoors.

Escape the city for a picturesque pedal in Washington Park. This urban park features 155 acres of outdoor fun and two large lakes for water activities. Pedal boat rentals on the edge of Smith Lake are available by the hour. The entire family can come along for the ride as you pedal around the lake and take in the park’s famous landscaped gardens. After you’re done, head to one of the many picnic areas or enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds.

Take a hot air balloon tour of Denver for ultimate city views and an experience you’ll never forget. Fair Winds Balloon Rides takes you up and away for a journey over the city in one of their colorful balloons. Learn about the region from a local guide as you float thousands of feet in the sky and take in iconic views of the Rocky Mountains. Once you land, you’ll be invited to make a celebratory champagne toast and receive complimentary memorabilia to commemorate your trip. 

Just thirty minutes outside downtown Denver, Denver Adventures offers Colorado's longest and fastest zipline journey. With six different zip lines ranging from 850 feet to over 1,900 feet long, experience a thrilling ride at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. As you zip through the course with the Rocky Mountains as your surroundings, you’ll receive a birdseye view of the lush landscapes below. Once your journey is complete, relax at the neighboring tavern for a tasty bite and local beers. 

Make your way to the Lower Highlands neighborhood for some of the tastiest ice cream around. Opened in 2008, Little Man Ice Cream has become a Denver staple, serving tasty scoops of all the flavors you know and love. Choose from classics like cookie dough, Oreo, and peanut butter cup, or try out one of the signature flavors like 16th Street, space junkie, and purple cow. The 28-foot-tall cream bucket above the shop ensures you won’t miss it as you walk through the neighborhood.

With over 40 courses in and around the city, Denver provides options for golfers of all skill levels. Take in the Rocky Mountain surroundings at City Park Golf Course, get in a quick nine holes at Kennedy Golf Course, or prepare for a challenge at Willow Creek Golf Club. No matter where you go, you’ll experience a stunning day on the greens.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Denver Botanic Gardens. You’ll see plants from around the world as you explore the themed gardens and conservatory. Walk through a traditional Japanese garden, explore aquatic plants found under the sea, discover the plants that thrive in dry conditions, or step into a simulated tropical rainforest. After you’ve wandered through the gardens, visit the gift shop to browse botanic-themed items or stop by the Garden Cafe for a quick bite.

Book a tour with Denver Brew Tours to learn about Denver’s thriving brewery scene and taste amazing craft beer. A local guide will take you on a two-and-a-half-hour walking journey through some of the city’s top breweries. Each stop offers a unique experience where you’ll learn about the production process, meet the brewmasters who work behind the scenes, and taste everything from hoppy IPAs to refreshing lagers. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a casual sipper, you’ll learn something new along the way.

Denver’s Wild Animal Sanctuary is a 33,000-acre facility home to over 950 rehabilitated animals. It’s one of the biggest carnivore sanctuaries in the world and rescues animals from around the globe. Unlike zoos, the facility is designed for the animals to exist as they would in their natural habitats. The animals are treated to sprawling spaces and allowed to roam as they please. 

When you visit the sanctuary, you can view the animals from the 1.5-mile elevated footbridge, which reduces pressure on them and allows you to see their expansive enclosures. Walking down the footbridge, you’ll pass various habitats and see all kinds of species, including bears, tigers, lions, wolves, and more. 

Explore the stunning red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. Located seventy miles south of downtown Denver, this national natural landmark features 21 miles of hiking trails to discover. From leisurely strolls to advanced hikes, there’s something for every skill level. The full loop trail is the top choice for families, featuring four miles of stunning views and relatively easy terrain. If you want a more challenging adventure, head to the Ridge Trail for a panoramic climb. Whichever trail you take, you’ll be surrounded by photo-worthy landscapes and stunning views.

Prepare for a day of fun in the sun at Elitch Gardens Water Park. This must-visit family attraction is designed for kids and adults of all ages. Dive into the massive pool featuring simulated ocean waves, relax on a tube as you float down the lazy river, or zip down one of the many water slides. There’s even a splash zone and children’s play area for the tiny tots. If your time in the waterworks up an appetite, stop by one of the several dining options for a quick snack or tasty meal.