Discover Your Perfect Summer Getaway in Denver

Nestled in the foothills of the towering Rocky Mountains lies Denver, a city that boasts urban chic in a scenic outdoor wonderland. With 300 days of glorious sunshine, The Mile High City welcomes you to explore its diverse and eclectic neighborhoods overflowing with thriving foodie scenes and exciting nightlife. And with Pride season here, you and your friends don't want to miss out on Denver's PrideFest, one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in the West. Check out the guide below for a thrilling and unforgettable adventure in the downtown/Capital Hill and Colfax neighborhoods – only in Denver.

When you get into town, check into the ART Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton, a luxurious hotel in the heart of downtown. With the city at your fingertips, the finely appointed furnishings, spacious and cozy rooms and cosmopolitan vibe will set the stage for an enchanting escape to Denver. Pro tip: Grab a hand-crafted cocktail at Fire Restaurant and head out to the terrace for a view of the cityscape and breathtaking mountains in the distance. Or make the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel your gathering place while you explore, shop, dine and indulge. The newly renovated hotel captures the essence of the city with an inviting atmosphere.

First on your list of fun things to do is to check out Denver PrideFest, the largest Pride festival in the Rocky Mountain Region and just minutes away from your downtown stay. Drawing over 550,000 LGBTQ+ friends and allies, this year's 50th Anniversary bash promises to be the most spectacular and thrilling Denver PrideFest yet. Throw on your runners for a brisk jog at the Pride 5K the morning of June 22. Then head over to Civic Center Park for hundreds of vendors, dozens of tasty food and beverage venues, and live shows featuring some of your favorite queer performers. On June 23, the Coors Light Pride Parade will be 14 blocks of floats and dancers, music and marchers.

The fun in Denver doesn't stop with PrideFest – grab your pals for some adventures in the adjacent Capital Hill and Colfax neighborhoods. The Capital Hill & Golden Triangle Creative District is bursting at the seams with intriguing art and history museums, beautiful parks and captivating galleries. The Denver Art Museum, a triumphant architectural masterwork, features some of the finest collections of art in the country. Or visit the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art and experience its salon-style format, featuring the collected works of Colorado's own Vance Kirkland. There's more to explore at the Clyfford Still Museum with its Abstract Expressionist art displays. And don't forget the Molly Brown House Museum, a showcase of Titanic's famous "Unsinkable" Molly Brown.

More neighborhood adventure awaits in nearby East Colfax, a bustling slice of the city. In fact, Colfax Avenue is the longest commercial street in the country. The once dirt road turned into a trolley route and has since become a lively stroll of popping nightclubs, live music venues, bars and eateries.

Speaking of good eats, pop into Steuben's, a yummy brunch spot with classic dishes on the menu. Or for some of the finest Italian cuisine in the neighborhood, Coperta is a warm and welcoming spot serving up fresh pastas and delicious wines. But don't forget about D Bar, because at this dinner and drinks hot spot dessert is king. Famed chef, host and head judge of Food Network's "Food Network Challenge," Keegan Gerhard, brings exquisite pastries and tasty dishes to the menu. For a neighborhood dive that channels the spirit of furry four-legged friends, pop into Wild Corgi Pub and crack open a cold one. The charming spot serves up comfort food and drinks in a relaxed and friendly environment.

There's more to discover nearby Colfax, including City Park, Denver's largest green space. Throw down a blanket on the grassy lawn and take in the fresh mountain air. Or go for a walk through the park's sprawling collection of lakes, monuments, baseball, football and soccer fields and relish the lush greenery. The park is also home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science – two great ways to spend an afternoon.

When the sun goes down at the park, meander over to Restaurant Row, a stretch of 17th Avenue, for cafes, bars and pubs that let you post up on an outdoor patio. You'll also find a gaggle of queer bars and hangouts for the best time out. Pop into X Bar and ogle at the pink flamingos and mingle with friendly locals and visitors alike. When you're ready to dance, head over to Charlie's for a popping dance club complete with go-go boys, two-step lessons and a main stage for drag performances. Finish the night at Blush and Blu, a rainbow palace where eclectic styles meets punk rock vibes and everyone mixes and mingles in between.

For other kinds of nightlife fun in the neighborhood, check out Temple Denver and experience a techno dreamscape. The theatrical production, immersive sound system and iconic LED chandelier thrusts you into the world of techno beats. The elevated venue draws international talent and DJs for a full lineup of shows you don't want to miss. If chill is your vibe, visit Carboy Winery and indulge in wine offerings that are taking the Colorado wine industry to the next level. Enjoy wine tasting experiences – but don't forget to book a reservation online!

Plan Your Visit

Denver's downtown/Capital Hill and Colfax neighborhoods have it all: luxe stays, exciting nightlife, and outdoor adventure spots set against the gorgeous Rocky Mountains. Come for the 50th Anniversary of PrideFest and stay for a fun and inviting experience in some of Denver's most exciting and eclectic neighborhoods. Visit the Denver website and start planning your perfect summer getaway today.