The Mile High City strives to redefine what it means to live in the Mile High City. It has transformed into an upscale, technologically advanced urban environment brimming with energy.
With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Denver continues to be an adventure for all seasons; it is a playground with 850 miles of paved trails connecting the history. Navigating the city by Denver charter bus rental for a large group or e-bicycle.
This guide skips over many common tourist attractions to provide a taste of real Denver, including experiencing a spectacular sunset. Although Denver continues to develop and expand at an incredible rate, its secret spots still encompass the core of Denver culture.
You will discover how nature can coexist with an urban environment in such a unique way, as only Denver can provide, and much more, as your voyage of discovery begins right now.
Many tourists flock to the same busy parks and viewpoints in Denver, but I have spent many years searching for Denver’s real treasures that offer both spectacular views and serene experiences away from the throngs of tourists. With friends, you can discover these hidden sites through the use of a Denver charter bus rental.
Inspiration Point Park sits on a bluff in Northwest Denver and remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. The magic comes from its sweeping views that stretch from Pikes Peak to Longs Peak, with Denver’s skyline right below.
As twilight falls, these locations become increasingly beautiful. The colors of the sunset that shine on the Rockies, transitioning from orange to yellow, are simply breathtaking. One night while camping in Rocky Mountain National Park, I had an exceptional view from Long’s Peak all the way to Pikes Peak just south of Colorado Springs; what an experience!
The park has a relaxed vibe that focuses on casual enjoyment. You’ll find paved walking trails throughout the grounds that are available to everyone, including families with strollers. Several shaded picnic tables make perfect spots to enjoy a snack while you wait for the sunset show.
For historians, this site has even more appeal; it was originally a public “pleasure grounds” developed by notable Denver landscape architect Reinhard Schuetze during his time. So, its significant historic contribution makes it eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
Ruby Hill Park draws crowds to its winter sledding hill and outdoor amphitheater, but locals know there’s much more to see. Peaceful wooded areas hide walking trails that let you escape from city life. These paths see fewer hikers, so you get a more private outdoor experience.
Located on one of Denver’s highest elevations, the site provides stunning views of the Denver city skyline and the distant Front Range. After a long week of work, these quiet trails are an ideal place to unwind while surrounded by urban scenery.
A 1.75-mile loop trail follows the park’s edges to give you a structured walk. You’ll pass through a lovely pine grove on the northern part, and fall brings stunning colors to the landscaped areas. The Ruby Hill Loop Trail has earned a solid 3.9-star rating from 49 community reviews.
There are choices for bikers. There are two different trails for bikers, including what is commonly known as the Ruby Hill Loop Trail and the Ruby Hill Slopestyle Lines, which both measure approximately 2.9 kilometers long.
Cheesman Park gives you a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city. The main areas draw crowds, but I’ve found several quiet spots perfect for relaxing. You’ll find plenty of open space to spread a blanket and soak in the history and natural beauty.
The historical background is an important aspect of the overall experience at the park. The area where the park is located was originally established as a cemetery back in 1858, before it became what we know today as a stunning public space. The city of Denver officially dedicated the park as a public park in 1907 and named it after Denver pioneer Walter Cheesman.
The Inner Loop path around the central pavilion makes a great walking route. This popular trail takes you through some of the park’s most beautiful spots, with plenty of benches and shade for breaks along the way.
The park’s Neoclassical marble pavilion is considered its centerpiece. This structure, also referred to as “Denver’s temple in the sun,” features several reflecting ponds and fountains located on the west side of the pavilion. There are excellent photo opportunities created by the park’s impressive scenery, as well as places where visitors can sit quietly while they think.
If you’re visiting these local favorites with a group, Metropolitan Shuttle makes getting around Denver simple. Their charter bus services allow you to hit multiple outdoor and urban spots in a single day, without the hassle of parking, navigating traffic, or coordinating multiple vehicles.
You can go on adventure after adventure, after finding out about all of the great natural things to see that are hidden from all but the most experienced Denver explorers. There are many thrilling opportunities available for you to experience in the center of Denver that complement all of the various outdoor activities available to be enjoyed outside of town.
Locals call it “Wash Park,” and it’s Denver’s favorite park with good reason, too. This rectangular oasis has two lakes, beautiful gardens, and mountain views that create a perfect escape within city limits.
Locally, Smith Lake has become a favourite place to go for a boat ride on swan boats, which are designed to allow users to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while drifting safely across the calm water. New LED-lit boats make the experience of taking a ride at night magical while they illuminate their surroundings after dark.
“No one else has illuminated swans,” says Eric Heiserman, Wheel Fun’s Colorado operations manager. Night rides are so popular that warm summer evenings often see waiting lists.
The boats’ large hulls make them exceptionally stable. You can pack snacks and drinks for your ride, though alcohol and large coolers aren’t allowed.
Adrenaline seekers love Denver Skatepark’s 60,000 square feet of skateable concrete terrain. Boarders, bladers, and bikers of all skill levels gather here, making it the heart of Denver’s thriving skate community.
Skateboarding culture is embraced in Denver. According to Nick Buchanan (the alternative sports coordinator), “I remember the days of skating as a subculture and being chased out of places like banks and parking lots…it’s incredible how far skateboarding has progressed. Municipalities are now providing funding to support it.”
The city runs skateboarding classes for kids at all levels. A youth skateboarding team exists for ages 8-15.
Modern design elements make Denver Skatepark unique. Local Eli Epstein puts it this way: “This has a lot more street-oriented features and a lot of things that are a lot closer to what a lot of kids are skating these days.
Just remember to bring your gear since the park doesn’t offer rentals.
A bike bar tour through downtown with friends tops the list of social urban adventures. These 100% pedal-powered vehicles offer a uniquely Colorado way to experience downtown Denver’s breweries and bars.
Denver Patio Ride’s bike bar fits up to 16 riders per tour. A “party facilitator” guides your group through LoDo or RiNo districts while you enjoy beer and bicycling.
You can stick to pre-designed routes or create your own path. The tour lets you bring food and beverages in resealable containers.
Groups interested in doing urban activities together should contact Metropolitan Shuttle to provide transportation. Through Denver charter bus rentals, Metropolitan Shuttle has ways to transport large groups of people from urban locations without worrying about parking or finding a designated driver.
A happy rider shares: “Nothing better than getting a group of people together to bike and drink. It’s such a Colorado way to experience all the breweries and bars that downtown has to offer”.
The beauty of Denver lies in the way that longtime city residents have come to know how to balance urban life with nature. For over 30 years, I have found many areas where people can escape from city life without having to drive far into the mountains.
The South Platte River meets Cherry Creek right in downtown Denver at Confluence Park, creating an unexpected urban paddling spot. A 100-yard whitewater run features dam-controlled rapids with good drops and eddies – perfect for practice and play boating.
Confluence Park is a popular place for a particular type of person. It is an open area that has been kept free from ice because it is part of a city drainage system. Many are dedicated to kayaking in this area and will often try fitting time into their schedules during business hours, with multiple kayakers changing clothes in the parking lot prior to returning home from work.
Next to the whitewater chutes, Confluence Kayak & Ski has everything you need for your adventure. They provide rentals, lessons, and gear for both whitewater and flatwater kayaking. With tubing instead of kayaking, newcomers often start, and staff members are ready to help ensure everyone’s safety.
Professional photographer and Confluence regular Peter Holcombe loves the unique atmosphere: “While you are sitting in the eddy trying to catch your breath, there’s always something to look at… I’ve had old retired couples out on a walk start cheering for me”.
From colorful flowers to hardy native species, Denver Botanic Gardens showcases an amazing variety of plants. The Japanese garden creates a peaceful escape, complemented by beautiful indoor and outdoor exhibits.
The Mordecai Children’s Garden invites families from March to November with hands-on nature play areas. With easy drop-off spots near the entrance Groups can arrive by Denver charter bus rental.
During the winter months, the Gardens’ Chatfield Farms location comes alive with the magical Trail of Lights. This holiday event features light shows, multiple light tunnels set to music, and lit-up antique tractors. Each year brings something new, like their recent tribute to Colorado’s mountain streams and wildlife.
Remember to buy tickets online for specific dates and times – they’re not sold at the entrance.
One of North America’s largest urban wildlife refuges is located only 10 minutes from downtown. Rocky Mountain Arsenal, a former military base, has been transformed into a sprawling 15,000-acre sanctuary for wildlife to roam.
The refuge includes an extensive network of trails as well as an 11-mile driving route through wildlife territory, giving you a great way to experience animal habitats up close. Animals are generally most active in the early morning or late afternoon; thus these periods typically offer the best chance for wildlife viewing opportunities while visiting the refuge.
Each season brings its own wildlife show:
massive cottonwood trees by the lakes each night.
Visitors often see prairie dogs, mule deer, white-tailed deer, bison, coyotes, falcons, and many bird species. Best part? Entry to this natural treasure costs nothing.
These three destinations give Denver visitors a perfect mix of city life and natural wonders.
Denver may be a dream-come-true for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the outdoors. My experiences in this remarkable city have shown me that the real beauty of Denver lies off the beaten path and can only be discovered through the eyes of a local.
Denver experiences approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, which contributes to tremendous enjoyment of all forms of outdoor recreation, from leisurely hiking trails at Ruby Hill Park to adrenaline-pumping zip-lining at Clear Creek Canyon. Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Denver can uniquely combine the excitement of the urban environment and its attractions with the tranquillity created by nearby mountains and parks.
Denver has some of the most convenient attractions. The opportunity to kayak at Confluence Park and then see bison grazing at Rocky Mountain Arsenal within minutes of each other highlights this convenient dynamic.
The city rewards people who look beneath the surface. You should skip the crowded tourist trails and head to Inspiration Point for breathtaking sunset views. A bike bar tour with friends through LoDo beats fighting crowds at popular breweries. These local secrets become favorite memories for most visitors.
Denver opens the door to Colorado’s natural wonders. Quick trips to Mount Blue Sky, Chautauqua Park, or The Wild Animal Sanctuary let you experience the state’s varied landscapes close to the city.
Nothing beats relaxing at a rooftop bar or craft brewery patio after a day of adventure. The sun sets behind the Rockies while you enjoy good food and great drinks. These moments capture the Denver lifestyle perfectly.
A weekend or month here will show you Denver’s perfect mix of outdoor adventure and urban excitement. The city grows and changes but keeps its welcoming, vibrant spirit. Grab some friends, book that charter bus, and find out why locals never stop loving the Mile High City.
The best chance to photograph the sunset in Denver is from Inspiration Point Park, located in Northwest Denver. You have an unobstructed view of the sun as it sets behind the mountains of Colorado.
Yes, you can rent special illuminated swan boats in Washington Park at night for a magical time on Smith Lake.
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal is an entrance-free area! The entrance to the refuge and to drive the 11-mile wildlife loop is free of charge!
A Denver Charter Bus Rental is both the safest and most efficient way to transport groups throughout the LoDo and RiNo neighborhoods.
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