Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city brimming with culture, outdoor activities, and stunning natural beauty. Best of all, there are plenty of free things to do in the Mile-High City that let you experience all the local flavor without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, here’s a guide to the best free activities in Denver, both for today and beyond.
1. Explore Denver’s Parks and Outdoor Spaces
City Park
- City Park is one of Denver’s largest and most iconic green spaces, offering beautiful walking paths, lakes, and wide-open lawns. It’s perfect for a picnic, a stroll, or some casual people-watching. You can also catch views of downtown Denver framed by the Rocky Mountains in the distance.
- Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science are adjacent to City Park, though they do charge admission. However, the park itself is free to explore.
Washington Park
- Known locally as Wash Park, this is a community favorite for outdoor activities like running, biking, and picnicking. There are two scenic lakes, flower gardens, and tree-lined paths that make it a beautiful spot for a peaceful afternoon.
Cheesman Park
- A little more intimate, Cheesman Park offers a historic landscape with old-world charm. Originally a cemetery, the park is now a beautiful open space where you can stroll, relax on the grass, or enjoy stunning views of the Denver skyline. The park also has a large central fountain and is a popular spot for joggers.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
- While attending a concert at Red Rocks requires a ticket, the park itself is open to the public for free. The hiking trails at Red Rocks give you incredible views of the red rock formations, Denver’s cityscape, and surrounding foothills. The park offers easy hikes like the Trading Post Trail and the Red Rocks Trail.
2. Visit Museums with Free Admission
Denver Art Museum (Free on Certain Days)
- The Denver Art Museum (DAM) is one of the city’s premier cultural institutions, offering a range of exhibits from Native American art to contemporary pieces. While the museum typically charges for admission, General Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month. They also have free days for Colorado residents throughout the year.
Clyfford Still Museum
- While the Clyfford Still Museum generally has an entrance fee, it is free on the first Friday of each month. This museum houses one of the most significant collections of abstract expressionist art, showcasing the work of American painter Clyfford Still.
The History Colorado Center (Free on Certain Days)
- Learn about Colorado’s rich history at the History Colorado Center. The museum offers an in-depth look at the state’s past through fascinating exhibits on its mining history, Native American culture, and the role of the state in the Civil War. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month.
3. Explore Denver’s Historic Neighborhoods
LoDo District
- The Lower Downtown (LoDo) District is a historic and vibrant neighborhood in Denver. You can wander the streets to admire the stunning Victorian architecture, browse the local boutiques, or simply take in the atmosphere. Larimer Square, a historic block within LoDo, has a collection of restaurants, cafes, and local shops, and is particularly beautiful in the evenings with its string lights.
Capitol Hill
- Home to the iconic Colorado State Capitol building, the Capitol Hill neighborhood is filled with historic houses and offers easy access to some of the best public art installations in the city. Don’t forget to stop by Civic Center Park, a central hub for local events and festivals. You can also take a free tour of the Colorado State Capitol to learn about the state’s political history.
RiNo District (River North Art District)
- If you’re into street art, check out the RiNo District, known for its vibrant murals and street art galleries. The area is home to a growing community of artists and creatives, and it’s free to walk through and discover the unique, ever-changing artwork on the walls of buildings, warehouses, and alleys.
4. Take a Stroll Through Denver’s Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens (Free Days)
- While the Denver Botanic Gardens typically charges for admission, the gardens are free to visit on select days throughout the year, including certain holidays or during special community events. The gardens feature beautiful plant collections, tranquil ponds, and themed gardens like the Japanese Garden and the Mediterranean Garden.
Sculpture Park
- Situated next to the Denver Art Museum, Sculpture Park is a free outdoor space where you can see a variety of large-scale sculptures by world-renowned artists. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing walk while enjoying art and the beautiful views of the city and surrounding mountains.
5. Enjoy Free Festivals and Events
Denver hosts a wide range of free festivals and events throughout the year that showcase everything from music and food to art and cultural experiences. Here are some popular recurring events that won’t cost you a dime:
First Fridays Art Walks
- Every first Friday of the month, various neighborhoods like LoDo, RiNo, and Santa Fe Drive open their doors for free art walks. Galleries and studios stay open late, offering free admission to exhibitions, live music, and food trucks. It’s a great way to experience Denver’s art scene and discover new artists.
Denver Free Days (Museums and Attractions)
- Throughout the year, many museums and attractions in Denver offer free entry on select days. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver Zoo, and Denver Botanic Gardens are just a few of the places that offer free admission days for Colorado residents or during special community outreach events.
City Park Jazz Concerts
- During the summer months, City Park becomes a vibrant venue for free outdoor jazz concerts every Sunday. Grab a blanket, a picnic basket, and enjoy live performances from local jazz bands in one of the most scenic parks in Denver.
6. Visit Denver’s Historic Landmarks and Monuments
Colorado State Capitol Building
- The Colorado State Capitol is open to the public, and you can take a free tour to learn about its architecture and history. Located in Civic Center Park, the building features stunning views of the Rocky Mountains from the golden dome. The tour will guide you through the history of Colorado’s government, the building’s construction, and the state’s political landscape.
Molly Brown House Museum (Free on Select Days)
- The Molly Brown House Museum is the home of Margaret “Molly” Brown, one of Denver’s most famous historical figures, known for surviving the Titanic disaster. While the museum generally charges for admission, it offers free admission on the first Friday of each month for the community.
7. Discover Denver’s Street Art and Public Art Installations
The 16th Street Mall
- The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and public art installations. It’s a great place to people-watch and experience the local culture. You’ll also find several free public art pieces and performances, particularly in the summer months.
Denver’s Street Art
- The RiNo District and Capitol Hill are not the only places where street art can be found. Denver is home to several public art installations scattered across the city. Many of these pieces are located in the LoDo District, the Golden Triangle, and along the Riverwalk. Take a self-guided tour of the city’s murals, sculptures, and installations for a truly unique artistic experience.
8. Go to a Local Brewery for a Free Tour (and Sample)
While many breweries in Denver offer free tours, tasting is typically not free unless there’s a specific promotion. Some of Denver’s most famous craft breweries like Breckenridge Brewery, Great Divide Brewing, and Denver Beer Co. offer free tours that give you a behind-the-scenes look at how they brew their beers. While the tours are free, you may want to budget for a beer sample afterward!
Conclusion: Free Fun in Denver
Denver is a city that offers unlimited opportunities for exploration and adventure, whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, soak in some culture, or attend an exciting event. With so many free things to do, there’s no reason not to explore the Mile-High City and discover all it has to offer. From parks and museums to festivals and neighborhood strolls, Denver proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to have a fantastic time. Whether you’re here for the day or planning to stick around, the city’s vibrant culture and stunning surroundings are waiting for you.
