All Ways Welcome in Denver For The Perfect Summer Getaway

Dale Pauly READ TIME: 6 MIN.

With 300 days of sunshine, an open, welcoming spirit, epic outdoor adventure, and vibrant nightlife, The Mile High City is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Denver's laid-back attitude and friendly locals attract members of the LGBTQ+ community from all over the world. Outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and arts and culture lovers are all welcome! No matter how you like to take a summer getaway, there's a way for you in Denver. With easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers sun-soaked outdoor activities, a thriving arts and culture scene, diverse neighborhoods, and award-winning restaurants and breweries.

Boating in City Park
Source: Adam Bove

Denver is the outdoor capital of the U.S., with plenty of activities to choose from. Whether you're into hiking, cycling, whitewater rafting, fishing or golf, it's all within easy reach when you make Denver your basecamp for Rocky Mountain adventure. This summer, explore the region's seemingly endless bike trails for epic two-wheeled adventures. Or, try some of Colorado's best fly-fishing, found just a short drive from downtown Denver. Rocky Mountain National Park, a bucket-list destination for outdoor lovers, is also located only 90 minutes from Denver. After a full day of outdoor adventures, return to the city and have a feast at one of Denver's chef-owned restaurants, or explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, teeming with urban flair. Whichever way you like to soak up the sun, Denver has something for you.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Source: Scott Dressel-Martin

Calling all art lovers! From museums and galleries to the country's best street art, Denver has your arts fix covered. If museums are more your speed, check out Denver Art Museum's newly renovated Martin Building, then head to the River North (RiNo) neighborhood to check out the murals that adorn nearly every building. For a truly unforgettable experience, check out Meow Wolf's "Convergence Station," the Santa Fe-based art collective's third permanent installation. Once the sun goes down, live it up at a concert under the stars at the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre. No summer is complete without at least one trip to this awe-inspiring venue, just 15 miles from downtown Denver.

Dining out at Bigsby's
Source: Nikki A. Rae

Denver's many diverse neighborhoods exemplify The Mile High City's laid-back attitude. In Downtown alone you can kayak on the Platte River, explore museums, shop at art galleries and boutiques, see a Broadway touring show, cool off in a water park, and experience exciting professional sports. In the Art District on Santa Fe, featuring art galleries and studios, discover the neighborhood's Hispanic roots, evident in colorful murals and exhibitions. If shopping is your way to spend an afternoon, visit Cherry Creek: the region's premier retail destination, with an impressive collection of art galleries and independently-owned boutiques. Visit historic Five Points, one of Denver's oldest and most diverse neighborhoods, where you can stop in at innovative coffeehouses and craft breweries, and visit museums telling stories from Denver's African-American past.

The Dairy Block
Source: Adam Bove

Foodies are welcome in Denver, whether you're a fine dining fan, street food aficionado, cocktail sipper, or craft beer lover. With over 300 days of sunshine, there's no better way to soak up summer than on one of The Mile High City's outdoor patios. From skyward rooftop terraces to lushly-landscaped gardens, you'll be able to find exactly what you're craving. Choose from unique breweries, must-try restaurants owned by award-winning chefs, and sleek cocktail lounges serving craft cocktails. Wherever you go, you can bet on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a warm welcome. Explore Denver's local beer culture and visit some of the 100 brewpubs, breweries and taprooms in the metro area. Get a taste of the local flavors by exploring our Denver Beer Trail!

Bicycling in one of Denver's many parks
Source: Adam Bove

After a sun-soaked day, Denver's vibrant nightlife is the perfect way to end your day. The Mile High City's nightlife is made up of diverse choices for LGBTQ+ visitors, including gay and lesbian bars, dance clubs and drag and cabaret shows. The city is filled with dance and comedy clubs, live music, and restaurants. On any given night, you'll find local and national artists playing a vast array of genres in clubs throughout the metro area. From the chic lounges and happening hotspots in Larimer Square and LoDo to the pulsating dance floors of the South of Colfax Nightlife District, The Mile High City knows how to let its hair down and party in style.

Whether you're looking for sun-soaked outdoors, urban adventure, or vibrant neighborhoods, there's a way for you in The Mile High City! Plan your summer getaway in Denver. All ways welcome.


by Dale Pauly

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