Denver Activities Close to Campus
Being close to both Denver and the Rocky Mountains means there’s always a wide array of fun things to do close to campus. Here are 25 Colorado things to do around the Mile High City and other hidden gems you might want to visit during your trip to the Rocky Mountain region. Check out our Colorado Fun Facts to learn more about the Centennial State.
Outdoor Activities
1. Backpacking or Hiking: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado’s top attraction for breathtaking trails, mountain biking, skiing, and so many other outdoor activities.
2. Garden of the Gods: Hike or climb in this picturesque park in Colorado Springs, renowned for its unique red rock formations.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at one of the 25+ nearby resorts—enjoy world-class winter sports at destinations like Aspen, Vail, or Breckenridge.
4. Mount Evans Scenic Byway: Cruise the highest paved road in North America to view Echo Lake and Mount Evans, which peaks at 14,130 feet.
5. Fourteener Challenge: Test your limits by “bagging” one of Colorado’s 53 peaks that rise over 14,000 feet in elevation.
6. Denver Botanic Gardens: Be inspired by the Japanese Garden, a serene urban oasis showcasing diverse flora.
7. Water Adventures: Raft or kayak down the thrilling rapids of Clear Creek Canyon or the Arkansas River.
8. Sunshine Galore: Enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine each year—perfect for any outdoor activity.
Local Denver Sights
9. Elitch Gardens: Experience the excitement of roller coasters and water slides right in the heart of downtown Denver.
10. State Capitol Steps: Stand exactly one “mile high” above sea level on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol.
11. Downtown Denver: Explore the architecture of downtown Denver, which is home to two million people.
12. Denver Aquarium: Visit the largest aquarium between Chicago and California to explore fascinating marine life.
13. Denver Art Museum: Enjoy “Free First Saturday” events while exploring impressive art collections.
14. Historic Landmarks: Pay a visit to the grave of Wild West legend Buffalo Bill, the San Juan Mountains, or the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
15. Denver Zoo: Get up close with wildlife at one of the nation’s top zoos, celebrated for its engaging exhibits for adults and kids of all ages.
16. U.S. Mint: Learn about coin production with a tour of the US Mint, which produces 40 million coins per day.
Music Venues
17. Red Rocks Amphitheater: Experience a memorable concert under the stars at this world-renowned outdoor venue with breathtaking views.
18. Outdoor Concerts: Enjoy one of the many free summer concerts that take place throughout the region.
Sports Teams
19. Denver Broncos: Cheer on the football team at Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium.
20. Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, and Colorado Mammoth: Catch an exciting game at Ball Arena, where basketball, hockey, and lacrosse come to life.
21. Colorado Rockies: Root for the baseball team at Coors Field, home to thrilling summer games.
22. Colorado Rapids: Watch fast-paced soccer action at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
Local Food and Shopping
23. Local Coffee Shops: Explore one of the 17 coffee shops within a five-mile radius of campus for a perfect caffeine fix.
24. Farmers’ Markets: Discover fresh, local goodies at nearby farmers’ markets during the spring and summer months.
25. Cherry Creek Shopping District: Shop at a variety of department stores and boutiques in this vibrant retail area.
From exploring majestic mountain trails and scenic byways to diving into the vibrant energy of downtown Denver, there's always an adventure waiting just around the corner, no matter the season. Embrace the diversity of activities and discover how every day near campus is a chance to create unforgettable memories while you live and play in the heart of Colorado.