Combined with a contemporary and Old West style, the American metropolis of Denver is a unique destination for travelers who like to enjoy an unblemished landscape composed of the stellar Rocky Mountains and dramatic geological formations. The city is home to many lush, well-manicured parks that are home to wild animals. But Denver is also a place where visitors can commemorate its rich historical legacy by visiting some iconic places. One can also plan on visiting some of its best breweries in one trip. Below, we have compiled a list of 10 beautiful places that you should visit in Denver.

10 Denver Botanic Gardens

The beautiful 23-acre park, Denver Botanic Gardens, is a luxuriant oasis studded with vibrant flowers and green trees. This attraction is a perfect escape from frenetic city life. Here, visitors can experience the Zen setting. There are several family-friendly concerts to attend during the summer. The 18 arid gardens of the west consist of plants that thrive in Colorado’s climate, including different varieties of cacti and succulents, an ornamental grass garden, a dwarf conifer collection, and many more. Additionally, visitors will have the unique opportunity to stroll the internationally inspired gardens, which are inspired by countries such as China, Japan, and South Africa. Those who appreciate the aesthetic side of a garden can check out the water garden, which is home to aquatic plant collections like waterlilies, lotuses, and water platters. In winter, take the opportunity to feel the mountain air and bask in the magnificent snowy vistas.

  • Address: 107 York Street
  • Hours: Hours vary by season.
  • Admission: Adults $15; seniors (65+) and military $11.50; children (3-15) and students $11; children under 2 are free.
  • Tip: For a fun-packed day, visit Elitch Gardens.

9 Roxborough State Park

Endowed with dramatic red sandstone formations, Roxborough State Park is hands down one of the unique places to visit. The state park lies 20 miles south of Denver and is sprawled over 3,339 acres of land, which is recognized as a National Natural Landmark. There are many ecological systems, geological formations, and archeological sites that make this place particularly interesting.

The park is made up of ponderosa pine forests, Douglas fir, and prairie land. There are also woodlands that are home to various forms of wildlife. This is a true nature lover’s paradise. Expect to find varieties of bird species, butterflies, and reptiles. There are also some mammals, such as the black bear, coyote, deer, elk, mountain lion, and fox.

  • Address: 4751 Roxborough Dr., Littleton, CO 80125, United States
  • Opening Hours: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Park Facilities: Visitor’s center, exhibits, a bookstore, and restrooms.
  • Note: There are six hiking trails.
  • Admission Fee: Daily Vehicle Pass: $10; Individual Daily Pass: (Only for individuals accessing the park without a motor vehicle. This includes by foot or bicycle.) $4

8 Rocky Mountain National Park

The breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park is only an hour and a half drive from Denver and consists of a blissful wilderness area with approximately 355 miles of hiking trails, sublime lakes, and stellar mountains taller than 12,000 feet. It’s no wonder why this attraction has been a real tourist magnet, with around 4.5 million annual visitors. The park is home to some interesting wild animals, such as elk, bighorn sheep, and moose.

Related: Visiting Denver? Don't Leave Without Adding These Things To Your List

7 Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater is considered one of the most beautiful open-air amphitheaters in the world. The natural amphitheater is a geological formation built into a rock structure. It is located ten miles west of Denver. Visitors coming here will be able to view the majestic views of the rocky landscape of Colorado. You can book a show or go on an adventurous hike here.

6 Cherry Creek State Park

For a fun-packed summer mini-vacation, Cheery Creek State Park is the place to be. It takes around 12 minutes to drive from Denver to reach this laid-back and beautiful attraction. Cherry Creek State Park is tucked around a large reservoir and dam. The park sprawls over 3,000 acres of land, which include an 880-acre reservoir. The park is home to thriving wildlife, where visitors can encounter deer, coyotes, beavers, and prairie dogs. Some activities to do at the park consist of horseback riding, cycling, kayaking, swimming, and many more.

  • Opening Hours: Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Admission Fee: A daily vehicle pass is $11.
  • Note: Pet owners can bring along their pets to enjoy a fenced 100-acre dog park with water access to Cherry Creek.

5 Confluence Park, Denver

Confluence Park in Denver is a popular hangout for many locals and tourists alike. This gorgeous urban park is located in the city center of Denver, just within the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River. Some of the convenient facilities include coffee shops and many hipster spots to spend leisure time with friends. Fun activities to indulge in are kayaking, cycling, and skating.

4 Denver Art Museum

Lauded for its great collection of American Indian art, the Denver Art Museum is a must-visit attraction for history and architecture buffs. The museum is situated in the Civic Center of Denver, where one can find a wide range of encyclopedic collections of more than 70,000 works from across the centuries. Architecture lovers will also have the unique chance to marvel at the iconic Martin Building, designed by the famous Italian architect Gio Ponti in 1971.

The museum hosts nine curatorial departments, some of which include African, Ancient Americas, and Native American arts.

  • Address: 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway
  • Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
  • Admission: Adults $15 (non-resident adults $19), Seniors (65 and above) $12, Students, Active Military and Veterans $16; Youth (18 & Under) Free

3 Colorado State Capitol

One of the most stunning landmarks in Denver is, hands down, the golden-domed Colorado State Capitol. This neoclassical building is tucked at the eastern end of Denver’s Civic Center Park. Visitors can enjoy some free tours to learn about Colorado’s history and the construction of the capitol. There is also a kids' area to enjoy some fun activities.

  • Address: Broadway and East Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado
  • Admission Fee: Free of charge

Related: Denver In 3 Days: A Full Itinerary Of Things To Do

2 Larimer Square

Larimer Square, dubbed "the heart of downtown Denver," is an elegant and lively pedestrian-friendly gathering spot. Visitors can see the well-restored Civil War-era buildings from 1971. Besides, there are many art galleries, shops, and restaurants. In the evening, visit this place to enjoy a live entertainment show by musicians and comedians.

1 16th Street Mall

Another pedestrian-friendly spot to visit is the 16th Street Mall, which is designed in a European style—think shady trees, flowerbeds, and park benches. The brainchild of architect I. M. Pei, 16th Street Mall is styled in red, white, and gray granite in a repeated pattern.

Enjoy the charming setting of this area while shopping in elegant boutiques or souvenir shops.