Denver doesn’t suffer from the stifling summer heat that other big cities do, but there are bound to be a few days in June, July and August where you’ll be ready for a cool and refreshing activity.

Water World & Island Kingdom

Every summer, thousands flock to Water World and Elitch Gardens' Island Kingdom, looking to beat the heat, relax – and ride some serious waterslides.

• Water World's Zoomerang is a half pipe water slide almost four stories high. Climb into a single-, double- or triple-person inner tube, take a deep breath and plunge over the edge for a free-falling sensation. There are also plenty of family-friendly rides and chilled out pools to laze about in.
• Island Kingdom is part of the famed Elitch Gardens Amusement Park, located in downtown Denver. One admission price will get you into the Elitch’s, where you can work up a sweat riding dozens of wild roller coasters, and then cool off by going for a swim, and hurtling down a number of wet and wild water slides.

City Parks & Lakes

Denver may not be anywhere near a beach, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of places to kick back by a shimmering body of water.

• Confluence Park, located within walking distance of downtown, offers sandy shores for sunbathing and wading, a kayak practice route, bike paths and a Thursday evening concert series throughout the summer.
• Up in the Highlands neighborhood, you’ll find the sprawling Sloan’s Lake Park, an urban oasis, with the enormous Sloan’s Lake taking center stage. In the summer be sure to keep an eye out for water skiers zooming across the lake, framed by a stunning view of the Denver skyline.
• Washington Park and City Park also offer great waterfront options.
• Read more about Denver's great parks.

Denver Botanic Garden

Another urban oasis perfect for a hot summer afternoon is the Denver Botanic Garden, a lush green space that’s fun for all ages. The attraction offers spectacular plant displays, unlimited opportunities for lifelong learning and research that help preserve Colorado's precious natural resources. Spend a few hours exploring this leafy, shady paradise.

Head for the Hills

As you head into the foothills of the Rocky Mountain Front Range, just a short drive from downtown Denver, you’ll notice that the air is crisper, the temperature is cooler and the views are positively breathtaking. During the summer months, Denverites literally head for the hills for unbeatable hiking, biking, rock-climbing and more.

• Red Rock Amphitheatre and Parkis always a popular destination, with its massive red sandstone rock formations, and trails that wind their way around the amphitheatre.
• The awe-inspiring natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park is just an hour-and-a-half drive away, with hiking, wildlife, scenic drives and more.
• Discover more Denver Mountain Daytrips.