Adventure in Denver, Colorado!

Denver Mint

Why Visit?

Denver Adventure: A Day at the Denver Mint and Beyond

Morning: Start at the Denver Mint

Begin your Denver adventure at one of the city"s most iconic institutions, the Denver Mint. Located at 320 West Colfax Avenue, it"s easily accessible via the 16th Street Mall Ride, a free shuttle service that runs through downtown. Tours of the Mint are free but require a reservation, so be sure to book in advance. As one of the few mints in the United States, it produces 50 million coins a day, each stamped with a "D" denoting Denver. Arrive early to clear security and enjoy a guided tour that delves into the rich history of coin production and the intricate art of minting.

Lunch: Fuel Up with Local Flavors

Post-tour, head to nearby Union Station, a stunning historic landmark that houses an array of eateries. Grab a bite at Mercantile Dining & Provision, where you can enjoy locally-sourced, artisanal dishes.

Afternoon: Conquer the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Twenty minutes northeast of downtown by car, this once wartime manufacturing site has transformed into a 15,000-acre sanctuary where bison roam freely and eagles soar. It"s a prime spot for wildlife photography and nature hikes. The refuge"s trails offer varying levels of difficulty, perfect for adventure seekers of all stripes.

Evening: Denver’s Thriving Craft Brewery Scene

Cap off your day back in the city. Denver boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Head to the RiNo Art District and visit some of the top local breweries like Our Mutual Friend Brewing, known for their innovative brews and commitment to local ingredients. It"s a refreshing way to reflect on your action-packed day in the Mile High City.

To Note

Always check availability and current COVID-19 regulations on the Denver Mint"s official website or by calling ahead. Each location"s visit may vary slightly depending on the season and local guidelines.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Molly Brown House Museum

Why Visit?

Denver Adventure: The Molly Brown House Museum and Beyond

Morning Exploration: Molly Brown House Museum

Start your Denver adventure by diving into the history of one of its most spirited inhabitants - Margaret "Molly" Brown, famously remembered for surviving the Titanic. Located at 1340 Pennsylvania Street in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the Molly Brown House Museum is easily accessible by car or public transport; hop on RTD Light Rail to the Colfax at Auraria stop and enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk amidst Denver"s charming architecture.

Make sure to arrive at the museum by 10 AM to catch the first tour. As you wander through the carefully preserved rooms, you"ll be transported back to the early 20th century, experiencing the opulence of Denver"s Gold Rush era and Molly"s adventurous spirit. Each nook of this Victorian mansion is filled with tales of her activism, philanthropy, and, of course, her dramatic Titanic survival story.

Midday Thrill: Confluence Park Kayaking

After immersing yourself in historical exploits, switch gears and embrace modern-day adventure. Take a 15-minute drive or a bike ride down the Cherry Creek Trail to Confluence Park, where the city"s kayaking scene thrives. Whether you"re a novice or an expert, the kayak chutes designed in the South Platte River promise an exhilarating experience. Rentals are available onsite, so dive right in and paddle through the heart of Denver.

Evening Wind Down: Denver Craft Beer Tour

Cap off your day by celebrating Denver’s rich brewery culture. Head to the nearby RiNo Art District, a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. You can join a guided brewery tour or create your own hop-infused adventure, exploring innovative brews and local flavors.

From historical exploration to water sports and craft beers, your day in Denver around the Molly Brown House Museum offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural deep dive, embodying the indomitable spirit of Molly Brown herself.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lookout Mountain

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure at Lookout Mountain, a natural wonder offering panoramic views and rich history, nestled at the junction of Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. This mountain is not just a scenic escape but an adventure hub that thrills every travel enthusiast.

Day 1: Arrival and Rock City Gardens Exploration

Begin your journey by driving up to Lookout Mountain, easily accessible from Chattanooga, Tennessee, just a 6-mile drive. Start with Rock City Gardens, a true marvel of nature and human creativity. Follow the Enchanted Trail where massive ancient rock formations and lush gardens lead you to the 100-foot waterfall and the breathtaking Swing-A-Long Bridge. Don’t miss the Lover"s Leap and see seven states vista! It"s a perfect spot for a panoramic snapshot.

Day 2: Ruby Falls and Point Park

No Lookout Mountain adventure is complete without visiting Ruby Falls, the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Join a guided tour, available every 15-30 minutes, which delves into the cavern"s captivating geological features. Later, head to Point Park, a 10-minute drive away. The park commemorates the "Battle Above the Clouds" during the Civil War, and the Ochs Observatory offers another spectacular vantage point of the Tennessee River Valley.

Day 3: Incline Railway and Hiking

On your final day, experience the thrill of the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. Board at St. Elmo Station at the mountain’s base, and enjoy the mile-long ride to the top with historic commentary. Once there, spend your day hiking the myriad trails that offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic rewards.

Interesting Fact: During clear days, the seven states view from Rock City’s Lover"s Leap includes Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.

Lookout Mountain promises adventure, history, and unforgettable vistas, perfect for those who love to explore and marvel at nature’s wonders.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Larimer Square

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover’s Itinerary: Larimer Square, Denver

Morning Thrill: Larimer Square Discovery

Start your exploration early at Denver’s historic heartbeat, Larimer Square. Meet at the iconic Kettle Arcade, recognizable by its vibrant, wrought-iron sign, marking the entrance. Here, history buffs and adventure seekers mingle to soak in the ambiance of Victorian buildings and twinkling lights. If you’re taking public transit, hop on the RTD Light Rail to the Union Station stop and relish a short, scenic walk down 17th Street to reach Larimer Square. Alternatively, Denver B-cycle offers convenient bike rentals for those looking to add a little pedal-power to their tour.

Exploration: Urban Climbing and Market Wonders

By mid-morning, prepare for an adrenaline boost at Übergrippen, just a 15-minute drive from Larimer Square. This indoor climbing crag caters to all skill levels, offering a mix of bouldering, auto-belays, and top-rope climbs. Post-climb, refuel with a quick bite at the local farmers market, where you can indulge in fresh, artisan treats and Colorado-brewed craft beers, perfect for a picnic with newfound friends.

Afternoon Adventure: Historical Haunts and Hidden Alleys

Head back to Larimer Square and delve deeper into its alleys, historically known for raucous saloons and secret gatherings. Join a guided ghost tour to discover eerie tales of Denver’s past, adding a spooky thrill to your adventure. Each story is a thread in the fabric of Denver’s intriguing historical tapestry.

Evening Unwind: Rooftop Rendezvous

As dusk falls, ascend to the rooftop of The Crimson Room, where live jazz fills the air. Sip on a bespoke cocktail crafted from local spirits, and gaze over the twinkling lights of Larimer Square below—a perfect, reflective ending to your day of adventure.

Remember, Larimer Square is not just a place, but a journey through time, filled with tales of pioneers, gold rushes, and the Wild West. Every corner promises a new story, making it an adventurer’s delight.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling urban adventure through Denver"s pulsating historical heart, Lower Downtown, commonly known as LoDo. This area, with its rich history from the Gold Rush era, now pulses with vibrant nightlife, gastronomy, and culture, making it a playground for adventure lovers.

Morning: Union Station and Breakfast

Begin your day at Denver’s Union Station, an iconic landmark dating back to 1881, which now doubles as a transit hub and a culinary treasure. Easily accessible by the RTD Light Rail, get off at the Union Station stop. Dive into a gourmet breakfast at Snooze, an eatery inside the station known for its inventive pancakes and vibrant atmosphere.

Mid-Morning: Coors Field Tour

Just a short walk from Union Station, visit Coors Field for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Rockies" home base. Explore the dugout, press areas, and suites, and learn about the ballpark"s history and architecture – don’t miss the famed Blue Moon Brewery on premises.

Lunch: Denver Milk Market

Stroll over to the Denver Milk Market, about a 10-minute walk from Coors Field. This food market offers a plethora of dining options – perfect for refueling. The adventure-themed Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs is a must-try with its exotic range of sausages from wild boar to rattlesnake.

Afternoon: Confluence Park and REI Flagship Store

Post-lunch, head to Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet. It"s a popular spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, offering a unique view of the city skyline. Just next door, visit the REI Flagship store, an adventure gear heaven housed in a historic 1901 Denver Tramway building.

Evening: Rooftop Drinks and Views

Cap off your adventure in LoDo with a visit to a rooftop bar like El Five, accessible via a short ride on the RTD or a scenic walk. Enjoy panoramic views of the downtown skyline and the Rockies, while sipping on locally inspired cocktails, reflecting on a day well-spent in the adventurous heart of Denver.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.