Having developed from a sprawl of natural sights, the rugged silhouettes of the Rocky Mountain still remains a memorable landmark of Denver, Colorado. This is a great city to visit on vacation. Besides having numerous places to stay, including vacation rentals and budget hotels, Denver also has a rising culinary scene. Plus, you may hear the occasional whispers about odd architecture and places rumored to be more than what they seem. There’s some seriously spooky stuff ahead, so look away if you have a weak heart! Check out the top unusual things to do in Denver, Colorado.
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CityPASS
CityPASS allows you to save money on multiple top attractions which are carefully hand-picked so that you’re not missing out on the city’s best sights (like the Downtown Aquarium and Denver Museum of Nature & Science). The pass gives you entrance to up to five attractions and allows you to skip ticket lines too. Purchase CityPASS to save 34% on admission pp - so you not only save time but money too.
1. Explore haunted neighborhoods at dusk
Spearheaded by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour gives you a glimpse of the eerie side of Denver’s history. This ghost tour delves into the city’s supernatural past, revealing mysterious stories that have left their mark. You’ll have the opportunity to explore and capture the chilling essence of haunted mansions, providing unique photo opportunities to document your encounters with the otherworldly.
Visit iconic locations such as Poets Row, boasting Art Deco architecture and apartments named after literary figures, and Colburn Hotel & Apartments, associated with Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and other contemporary writers. The tour also includes a visit to the Molly Brown House Museum, where you can unravel the paranormal mysteries surrounding the Titanic survivor, Molly Brown.
Book Tours : Twilight Ghost Tour
2. Discover Denver through its street art
This tour of Denver’s graffitied streets offers an enriching exploration of the city’s vibrant street art scene. It takes you through the River North Art District, a hotspot for creative residents of Denver. You’ll get to appreciate the vibrant murals adorning the district’s alleyways and buildings. As you delve into the world of urban art, you’ll gain insight into the history of the neighborhood and how that influenced the artists and their techniques.
The tour culminates at Denver Central Market, a bustling food market where you can unwind, grab a bite to eat, and reflect on the striking visual experiences you’ve encountered.
Book Tours : Denver Graffiti Tour
3. Touring the mysterious Denver International Airport
Upon driving past the Denver International Airport (DIA), one can’t help but shudder under the steely watch of the Blue Mustang — the disconcerting crimson gaze is unsettling, to say the least, but did you know that the artist Luis Jiménez actually passed away while sculpting the figure as the head of the horse fell on him?
Completed in 2008 by his sons, the Blucifer isn’t the only thing that may send shivers down your spine. If you explore the interior of DIA, you will find a number of murals titled “Children of the World Dream of Peace”, where the odd depiction of a narrative about world peace seems just a tad bit ominous. Threatened by a soldier wearing gas masks, the stern figure has often been pointed out by theorists that they resemble those of evil officials, and children all around the world are seen giving up their weapons after a vivid re-enactment of a solar flare on canvas, with a peaceful resolution of everyone living happily ever after.
The end? Not quite.
Look down from your plane window while descending and you may just notice that the 4 main runways seem to form the vague outline of a swastika. Along with that, have a look at the airport’s dedication plaque near the entrance of the airport. Said to be built above a time capsule to be opened in 2094 (what?), the airport thanked it’s sponsors but one name stands out: The New World Airport Commission. After some digging around, you can see why this airport has been subjected to thousands of conspiracy theories since it’s opening — there are no known records of the New World Airport Commission — so the real question is, does it actually exist? Dun dun dun
Denver International Airport
Website: DIA
4. Deprive your senses at the Denver Flotation Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Forget the usual massage and aroma therapies, how about trying lucid dreaming for once? Here at the Denver Flotation Center, all customers get a private tank where you are suspended in total silence within an oasis of salt water. Saturated with Epsom salts, which are known to have healing properties, the effects are similar to those of the Dead Sea, where you can lay half suspended for a soothing effect and let your subconscious mind wander. Bring your own audio CDs if you’d like an additional touch of zen!
Denver Flotation Center
Address: 1299 W. Littleton Blvd, Littleton, CO 80120
Price: from 65 USD
Opening Hours: By appointment only
Contact: 720-295-7168
Website: Denver Flotation Center
5. Catch a whiff of fresh air at the SunSpa Oxygen Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
A common complaint from tourists returning from a hike from the Rocky Mountains is how strapped for breath they feel — the sudden change in altitude is not something that everyone can easily adjust to. Fret not though, this oxygen bar has got your back! Choose from a variety of flavours — grape, blueberry and strawberry are some of the most popular ones. Said to bring about many health benefits especially for those with asthma, the calming effects from the surge of oxygen lasts even after you leave. Thus, this one of the most unique things to do in Denver.
Sunspa Oxygen Bar
Address: 1057 S Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80226 (303) 989-3656
Price: $15 for 20 minutes
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 am-10 pm Sat: 10 am-9 pm | Sun: 12 pm-6 pm
Website: Sunspa Oxygen Bar
6. Witness a murder unfold in front of your eyes whilst feasting on dinner
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Here at the Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show, Saturday nights are crime-buster nights! Non-costumed actors will take on the role of the regular diner, and before you can even dig into that delicious medium-rare rib eye, a shrill scream will alert you to the bloody corpse near you and that is when the fun starts! The detective will start uncovering clues and even interrogate unsuspecting customers, bringing the audience interaction level to a new high.
Try to keep up with all the twists and turns — the first person to solve the murder before the detective walks away with a customised prize package!
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Address: 1420 Stout Street, Denver, CO 80202
Price: from 14.95 USD
Opening Hours: 6 pm to 8.40 pm
7. Get a taste of death at Linger Eatuary
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
From afar, the bright sign of Olinger Mortuaries are as clear as day, and certainly a place that most people wouldn’t want to step foot in. However, upon closer inspection, the “O” is actually turned off with a clumsy scribble changing the words “mortuary” into “eatuary” instead. Yup, welcome to Linger Eatuary, where fragrant delicacies are garnished with a light sprinkle of death.
Those looking for obscure things to do in Denver will be interested in dining at Linger Eatuary. Converted from what used to be the largest mortuary business in Denver, the chunky metal conveyor belts that were used to transport bodies have since been converted to glass-topped tables and drinks are served from medicine bottles — talk about memento mori!
Linger Eatuary
Address: 2030 w. 30th ave., denver colorado 80211
Price: from 5 USD
Opening Hours: Differing hours for brunch, lunch and dinner on weekdays and weekends. Check the website for more information
Website: Linger Eatuary
8. Treat your dogs to a snack!
After all that talk of death, how about something light for your palate? Located on a little hill in the Highlands, Little Man Ice Cream is the place to be if you’d like to enjoy a day off with your canine friend! Bring your the next time you’re indulging in a sweet treat, and the shop attendant will provide water to go with a tasty milk bone. Although your furry friend can’t indulge in the wonderful creation that is gelato with you, we’re sure that he or she will be more than happy to feast on a treat!
Little Man Ice Cream
Address: 2620 16th St. Denver, CO 80211
Price: from 5 USD
Opening Hours: 11 am-10 pm
Website: Little Man Ice Cream
9. Paranormal perils: hang out at Cheesman Park
What a peaceful Sunday afternoon, huh? Don’t let the abundance of greenery fool you! Underneath the nesting birds and flourishing trees lies about 2,000 unclaimed bodies deep in slumber. Originally called Mount Prospect, the park used to be a cemetery in the 18th century. Due to the overcrowding of bodies, there were orders from the City Hall to remove the corpses — but rumour has it that the fallen ghouls were having none of it, and in turn voiced their dissatisfaction by knocking on doors in the wee hours of the night, with residents even reporting that they heard low moans coming from the hallowed grounds.
Because of all the disturbances, the removal of bodies was stopped and the gaping hole was instead filled. Today, the beautiful flora and fauna betray none of the ghastly truth underneath its soils, adding an eerie touch to your afternoon stroll.
Cheesman Park
Address: 8th Ave & Franklin St, Denver, CO 80206
10. Visit the home of Titanic survivor Molly Brown
Surviving the infamous sinking of the Titanic back in 1912, listen to the story of how Molly Brown survived the disaster. Visitors to her former house, which is now a museum, can take a look at how Molly Brown’s legacy lived on as an avid feminist who fought for women’s rights. This unique place in Denver is in a league of its own, so don’t miss it!
Molly Brown House Museum
Address: 1340 Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80203
Price: from 5 USD
Opening Hours: Hours vary depending on seasons. Check website for more info
Website: Molly Brown House Museum
11. Visit the National Velvet on Highland Bridge
Don’t be fooled by the elegant sculpture resembling a melted Christmas Tree; the gooey-looking sculpture was commissioned for a whopping $50,000 by the Denver Office of Cultural Affairs. Earning itself quite a name, the artwork has had a range of endearing nicknames bestowed upon it, from “Wet Salami” to “Tower of Power”, it’s a sight you must see for yourself, especially at night when it lights up, to determine if it’s art — or not. This is certainly one of the best things to do in Denver in the night for free.
National Velvet
Address: 16th Street Pedestrian Bridge
12. Hang out at the atmospheric Mayan Theatre
Venture beyond the intricately preserved exterior to see the ancient Mayan-Revival art style within the building. The theatre shows an up-to-date selection of films along with the occasional indie flick. Skip the long queues at the cinemas and spend a relaxing afternoon chilling out with the remnants of ancient gods all around you.
Mayan Theatre
Address: 110 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203, USA
Price: from 8.50 USD
Operating Hours: Varies by day, generally opens 30-minutes before first screening time and closes 30-minutes after last screening time.
Website: Mayan Theatre
13. Live as Alice in Wonderland for a day in Tiny Town
Filled with over 100 miniature houses ⅙ the size of real-life structures, see the colourful world of Wonderland through Alice’s eyes without the use of potions here in Tiny Town! The place is perfect for a unique date idea.
Tiny Town
Address: 6249 S Turkey Creek Rd, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
Price: from 2 USD
Opening Hours: 10 am - 5 pm
Website: Tiny Town
14. Blaze at Colorado’s Cannabis Tour
Every day is 4/20 here on Colorado Cannabis Tour, where the legal industry is open for public participation. As one of the crazy things to do in Denver, you can enjoy a diverse range of activities here - from vape-friendly rooms to witnessing the growth of cannabis plants. You may even get to bring samples of your favourite varieties back home!
Book Tours : From Denver: A Complete Cannabis Tour
15. Face your fears at Denver’s legendary haunted house
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located on the 13th floor of an old manor, 13th Floor Haunted House is a must-visit if you’re planning to try out some spooky things to do in Denver. Visitors can pay their last respects to the supernatural oddities who have made this their home — if you can make it out alive, that is! Also, this just so happens to be the 13th listing in this article. Coincidence? We think not.
13th Floor Haunted House
Address: 4120 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216
Price: from 19.99 USD
Opening Hours: Varies from day to day. Refer to website for more information
Website: 13th Floor Haunted House
16. Ballin’ in hard cash at the Denver Money Museum
What’s better than a completely free exhibition? Getting cash upon entering this museum! Although shredded (boo), the bag of cash is a unique souvenir of the different generations of money featured in this museum. You can even create your own dollar bill by using the photo booth in the interior!
Denver Money Museum
Address: 1020 16th Street Denver, Colorado 80202
Price: Free
Opening Hours: 9:30 am-4 pm Closed on weekends
Website: Denver Money Museum
17. Complete your Hogwarts back-to-school outfit at The Wizard’s Chest
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
18 Days till Halloween, make sure to beat the crowds of people by shopping early! We are open for in-store shopping,...
Posted by The Wizard's Chest on Tuesday, October 13, 2020
Harry Potter is undoubtedly a famous thing, and if you love the franchise, check out The Wizard’s Chest. By now, your Hogwarts acceptance letter should’ve reached you. Bring along a touch of Muggle to the wizarding school by completing your wizard makeover at this fun clothing store.
The Wizard's Chest
Address: 230 Fillmore Street, Denver, Colorado 80206
Price: from 10 USD
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 am-7 pm Sunday: 10 am-5:30 pm
Website: The Wizard’s Chest
18. Be amazed at BEYOND Light Show & Meditation
Denver is home to many unconventional spots, including a church dedicated to cannabis. And in International Church of Cannabis, visitors of all faiths are welcome to attend a guided meditation session that is accompanied by a unique laser, lights, and music show. The show comprises bright imagery, graphics, and lights projected onto the ceiling of the church, and with beautiful music, the meditation experience here is not only unique but also sublime. No cannabis consumption is required during this show, making it suitable for everyone.
BEYOND Light Show & Meditation
Address: The International Church of Cannabis, 400 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209-1817
Opening hours: Mon: 12pm - 6pm; Tue - Thu: 1pm - 2pm; Fri: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Book Tours : BEYOND Light Show & Meditation
19. Embark on a Foothills Explorer Tour from Denver
For a quick getaway from the city, consider going on a Foothills Explorer Tour From Denver. This half-day tour is perfect for exploring all the sights just outside the city, including Lookout Mountain, Red Rocks Amphitheater and Lariat Loop. Take in gorgeous 360-degree views, stop for coffee or wine-tasting in the historic town of Evergreen or sit back and enjoy the lovely views. This is a small group tour that offers complete attention from your guide.
Piqued your interest yet?
There’s no such thing as boring when you’re in Denver. Aside from the best rooftop bars and romantic places, the Mile-High City also has so many urban legends surrounding it, and rather than just reading about it, why not pay a visit there yourself? Perhaps you will have a new story to tell when you’re back! So keep this list of non-touristy things to do in Denver handy for the next adventure you’re planning.
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