Free Things to Do This Summer in Denver

Free Outdoor Fun

Summer at Skyline Park

Roll into summer like never before! Downtown Denver's Skyline Park is your go-to spot for summer fun. Featuring downtown's first-ever roller rink, City Skate, along with free mini golf, volleyball, pickleball and the return of the Skyline Beer Garden, Skyline Park is sure to let the good times "roll" from June through September.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Carved from towering red rock monuments, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is one of the world's most renowned concert venues. When there's no concert, the free Visitor Center has a museum and Performers' Hall of Fame, while the surrounding park offers hiking trails that weave in, around and over the colorful red rocks. 

Lariat Loop Byway

Retrace the motoring adventures of the early 1920s and experience the thrill of foothills exploration at the dawn of the Age of Motorcars on the Lariat Loop, a 40-mile scenic circle in the foothills west of Denver. The Lariat Loop takes motorists to several popular attractions, including the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave, the Colorado Railroad Museum and the Mother Cabrini Shrine. 

Dinosaur Ridge

See some dinos — or what's left of them, anyway. Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison features famous Jurassic dinosaur bones, such as Stegosaurus and Apatosaurus, discovered in 1877, and Cretaceous dinosaur footprints. A guidebook is available for use on self-guided tours. 

Littleton Museum

Travel back in time at the Littleton Museum and get a glimpse into Colorado's pioneer past. Located on 39 acres in Littleton, the museum consists of two living history farms (one from the 1860s and one from the 1890s), with a working farm, a blacksmith shop and more than 40,000 historic Colorado artifacts.

Plains Conservation Center

The Plains Conservation Center in Aurora helps students and adults grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural history of Colorado through a variety of educational programs managed by Denver Botanic Gardens in cooperation with the City of Aurora. It's always free to visit and hike the trails, explore the visitor center and check out the tipis and homestead village. There is a fee to attend any guided programs.

Garden of the Gods

Located just 60 miles from Denver, the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs features gigantic 500-foot-high red sandstone rock monuments at the base of Pikes Peak. 

Denver Skatepark

The expansive Denver Skatepark — one of the most renowned skate parks in the country — is filled with bowls for all levels of skating skill. Admission is free. Helmets are required.

Denver Street Art

Denver street artists have been busy brightening (and enlightening) the urban landscape for decades by making canvases of the city’s alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, garage doors and storefronts. Grab your camera and take a stroll past some of the city's favorite murals. 

Farmers' Markets

Denver may be a major city, but there are hundreds of nearby farms across the Front Range, meaning there's no shortage of fresh produce to fill The Mile High City's multiple farmers' markets. You'll also find humanely-raised meats, baked goods, prepared foods, fresh flowers and artisanal personal care products, and many markets also include live music, food vendors and flea markets. Most markets begin in May and extend into the fall. 

Denver's City Parks

No matter where you find yourself in The Mile High City, you’re likely only a few steps away from a lush and relaxing green space. Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to explore Denver's more than 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways, as well as an additional 14,000 acres of spectacular mountain parks in neighboring counties that are maintained by the City and County of Denver.

Lesser-Known, Hidden-Gem Parks

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to have a picnic, take in great views or experience a different side of the city, check out these lesser-known Denver parks.

How to Explore the South Platte River by Bike

Take a two-wheeled tour through the heart of the city along this beautiful river. You'll cruise by some of the city's biggest attractions. 

Denver's Best Urban Hikes

Denver is a city with boundless outdoor fun and has an ideal location next to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. While The Mile High City is conveniently close to major peaks for hiking, there's actually no need to head into the mountains when Denver's regional trail system encompasses hundreds of miles for all ages and abilities to explore. 

Outdoor Concerts

The Mile High City is filled with music, and during the spring and summer, many of the outdoor concerts are free for all, including City Park Jazz, Concerts in Central Park and many of the shows at Levitt Pavilion.

How to Explore the Colorado Trail in Waterton Canyon

Many people think that Denver’s prettiest, closest and most accessible bit of mountain scenery is Waterton Canyon. This is the start of the famous Colorado Trail, one of the great long-distance hikes (or mountain bike rides) of the Rocky Mountains.

Pet-Friendly Denver

Denver is home to dozens of pet-friendly activities and destinations, including dog-friendly hotels and dog parks. Find the best on-leash and off-leash fun for your best friend.

Second Saturdays At The Shops At Northfield

WHEN: Thru October 2024; Second Saturday of the month
WHERE: The Shops At Northfield
Welcome to Second Saturdays at The Shops At Northfield! A handmade-only event consisting of 70+ artisans, crafters and food experts from around Colorado. This art festival occurs every Second Saturday of the month, May through October. Bring the whole family to find incredible gifts, clothing and food for everyone to to enjoy! Parking is always free, and Artisan Markets' events are pup- and kid-friendly.

Second Sundays at Centennial Promenade with Artisan Markets

WHEN: Thru October 2024; Second Sunday of the month
WHERE: Centennial Promenade, Centennial
Welcome to Second Sundays at Centennial Promenade! A handmade-only event consisting of 70+ artisans, crafters and food experts from around Colorado. This art festival occurs every Second Sunday of the month, May through October. Bring the whole family to find incredible gifts, clothing and food for everyone to to enjoy! Parking is always free, and Artisan Markets' events are pup- and kid-friendly.

Boulder Fall Fest

WHEN: Sept. 13–15, 2024
WHERE: Pearl Street Mall, Boulder
​This three-day autumn festival features local food, a large beer/wine/margarita garden, live music, family entertainment and activities and includes the Firefly Handmade Market all along the historic Pearl Street Mall.

Firefly Handmade Fall Market at Boulder Fall Fest

WHEN: Sept. 13–15, 2024
WHERE: Pearl Street Mall, Boulder
​Set against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Firefly Handmade Fall Market is a must-visit for both locals and visitors. This free three-day autumn celebration will feature more than 100 creatively curated artisans, offering a creatively curated delectable collective of unique goods from exquisite artists, makers and designers.

Sunnyside Music Festival

WHEN: Sept. 14, 2024
WHERE: Chaffee Park
Denver’s Sunnyside Music Festival is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization that builds community through a free, family-friendly music festival. Join us for five local bands, food and drink vendors, kids activities, an artisan shopping market and more!

Colorado Artisan Markets

WHEN: Sept. 14, 2024; 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
WHERE: The Shops at Northfield
Celebrate Colorado’s spirit of community, creativity and craftsmanship with a series of Artisan Markets held on the 2nd Saturday of every month from May to October. Each market will feature 50–70 local vendors offering a wide variety of treasures, including handmade jewelry, Colorado photography, soaps, clothing, abstract art, artisanal food products and more. Free and open to all, attendees can dine at food trucks and enjoy live local music while also shopping and dining at the Northfield retailers and restaurants. Dogs are welcome!

Hangin' N Slangin' Markets

WHEN: Sept. 14, 15 & 29, 2024
WHERE: EDENS
Hangin' N Slangin' vintage thrift markets will be in RiNo, in the Lot on Larimer, on the second Saturday (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.), third Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and last Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.) of every month from March to November right next to the Denver Central Market! Events are always free to attend, and there's always a great group of vendors, food and music.

Full Moon Party at 54thirty

WHEN: Sept. 17, 2024
WHERE: Le Méridien Denver Downtown
Celebrate the Full Moon at Denver’s highest open-air rooftop bar! Join us at 5,430 feet where the vibes are just better. Dance the night away to live music and indulge in our carefully crafted cocktails and globally inspired bites.

Denver Oktoberfest

WHEN: Sept. 20–29, 2024
WHERE: Downtown Denver
The Denver Oktoberfest has been a staple two-weekend festival in Downtown Denver since 1969. From keg bowling to stein hoisting, live music and more, there’s something here for Oktoberfest pros and first-timers alike! So grab your stein, throw on your lederhosen and join the fun!

Far East Center Mid-Autumn Festival

WHEN: Sept. 21, 2024
WHERE: Far East Center
Do you love food, music and entertainment? Save the date to celebrate Far East Center's Mid-Autumn Festival! This free, family-friendly event in the Little Saigon Denver District will feature an Asian-inspired night market and street food from all over the world. Watch your kids play with light-up lanterns and enjoy music and entertainment from local performers. Other activities include a pho-eating contest, a moon cake-eating contest, cultural performances, a K-pop dance battle, traditional drum performances, a karaoke contest and more.

Miners Day

WHEN: Sept. 21, 2024
WHERE: Centennial Park, Frederick
Miners Day is Frederick's premier community event that originated as a celebration to honor and remember the city's mining heritage. This annual event features family-oriented fun and entertainment throughout the day including a parade, burro race, vendors, food trucks, activities, contests and live entertainment. Per tradition, Miners Day will conclude with a spectacular evening concert and fireworks display.

[Margins.] Conference and Book Festival

WHEN: Sept. 21 & 22, 2024
WHERE: Denver's Art District on Santa Fe
This year's [Margins.] Conference & Book Festival features more than 100 locally and nationally recognized speakers and performers, spanning writers, poets, multi-media artists, agents, editors and publishing creatives.

Denver Street Fairs - It's Fall Y'all!

WHEN: Sept. 21 & 22, 2024
WHERE: 1005 Galapago St.
This handmade-only art festival in the heart of the Denver Art District will feature more than 90 artisans, crafters and food vendors. Discover unique clothing, gifts and food for the whole family!

Festival Del Sol

WHEN: Sept. 22, 2024
WHERE: Colorado Chautauqua, Boulder
Colorado Chautauqua is proud to present the fourth annual free and bilingual Festival Del Sol! Enjoy live music, food and beverages, guided hikes, Latin dance lessons, family activities and games. Kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the vibrancy of Latino culture in the stunning surroundings of Chautauqua! 

Graveyard Markets: The Lemur and Friends Bazaar

WHEN: Sept. 22, 2024
WHERE: 2220 E Colfax Ave.
The Lemur and Friends Bazaar is a monthly artist market hosted right on our back patio. We host all kinds of artists from across Colorado, from bakers to jewelers. Pick up that perfect unique gift or something special for yourself!

Rock The Block

WHEN: Sept. 26, 2024
WHERE: Museum of Outdoor Arts, Greenwood Village
Join the Museum of Outdoor Arts to enjoy lunch in the park while watching live music from a variety of small music ensembles, Learn about MOA events and memberships and network with community partners. Bring your own lunch or purchase items from the grill bar. Access to the park is free with registration! 

Denver American Indian Festival

WHEN: Sept. 28 & 29, 2024
WHERE: Lakewood United Methodist Church, Lakewood
Since 2014, the free and family-friendly Denver American Indian Festival has brought a celebration of American Indian culture, arts and history to all Denver Metro communities. It has welcomed over 20,000 residents and over 81 tribal representatives.

Estes Park Elk Fest

WHEN: Sept. 28 & 29, 2024
WHERE: Bond Park, Estes Park
To celebrate the annual elk rut and learn about the wapiti (the Native American name for elk), Estes Park hosts the annual Estes Park Elk Fest® in Bond Park.

Free Museum Days

Museo de las Americas Free First Fridays

WHEN: Every first Friday of the month
WHERE: Museo de las Americas 
Museo de las Americas is dedicated to educating people about the arts and cultures of Latinidad in the Americas and is the premier Latin American art museum in the region. The museum offers free admission every First Friday, no tickets needed.

Penny Saturdays at MCA Denver

WHEN: Every first Saturday of the month
WHERE: MCA Denver
Okay, so it's not technically free. But every first Saturday of the month, Colorado residents can explore Museum of Contemporary Art Denver for just $0.01. 

Four Mile Historic Park Free Days

WHEN: Every fourth Friday of the month
WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park 
Take a trip back in time to Denver's pioneer past at Four Mile Historic Park, nestled on the bank of Cherry Creek. Stop by for a free day of tours, historic demonstrations and more on the fourth Friday of each month.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Free Days

WHEN: Sept. 30 (free day), 2024
WHERE: Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, a maze filled with treasures of the Earth: dinosaurs, dioramas, space exhibits, science experiments, a digital planetarium, an IMAX theatre and touring shows. 

Denver Art Museum Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Denver Art Museum 
Explore the Denver Art Museum's galleries showcasing a world-famous Indigenous art collection, as well as traditional and contemporary art from around the world. And admission is ALWAYS free for youth ages 18 and under, every day.

Clyfford Still Museum Free & Pay-What-You-Wish Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum
Enjoy nine beautiful galleries of Clyfford Still’s art, historic photos and letters from the Clyfford Still Archives, an interactive timeline, dozens of videos and books and a pair of tranquil outdoor terraces. New for 2024, the museum launched Pay-What-You-Wish Days: an initiative to increase community access at the Clyfford Still Museum on select days throughout the year. Admission can be as little as one penny, and online registration will open one week before each Pay-What-You-Wish Day.

Denver Botanic Gardens Free Days: York Street Location

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens 
Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the middle of the city, with 45 different gardens (some 33,000 plants), as well as one of the nation's top 10 conservatories. Relax in the Japanese Garden, climb through the Rock Alpine Garden and explore the Mordecai Children's Garden. 

Denver Botanic Gardens Free Days: Chatfield Farms Location

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms, Littleton
Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms is a picturesque nature preserve among the grasslands, ponds and cottonwood banks of Deer Creek. Facilities include nature trails, a wildlife observation area, display gardens, educational exhibits, a historical farm, a 19th-century one-room schoolhouse, working beehives and picnic areas. 

Plains Conservation Center Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
The Plains Conservation Center helps students and adults grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural history of Colorado through a variety of educational programs managed by Denver Botanic Gardens in cooperation with the City of Aurora.

History Colorado Center Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: History Colorado Center
History Colorado Center showcases powerful stories, honoring Colorado’s treasured memories and vibrant communities through exhibitions and programs. The center is also home to the State Historic Preservation Office and Stephen H. Hart Research Center — the portal to History Colorado’s more than 200,000 artifacts. 

Denver Zoo Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo, located in City Park, spans over 75 acres and is home to more than 4,000 animals, including rare amur leopards, okapi, black rhinoceros, elephants, vampire bats, orangutans, Komodo dragons and more! Note: To provide the best experience for all guests, Denver Zoo is offering a limited number of tickets for each Free Day, using an online lottery system. Anyone who wants to attend a Free Day must register online during the open lottery period for a chance to obtain up to five vouchers for its corresponding Free Day.

Colorado Railroad Museum Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2025
WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden
Travel back in time at this 15-acre railyard and museum in nearby Golden, Colorado. The Colorado Railroad Museum features more than 100 engines, cabooses and coaches, a garden railway and a library and roundhouse restoration facility with working turntable.

More Free Attractions & Tours

First Friday Art Walks

WHEN: Every First Friday
WHERE: Denver's Art Districts
Discover Denver's thriving creative community during a First Friday celebration, held every first Friday of the month. Galleries in Denver's creative art districts stay open late. 

Free Denver Public Art Tours

Denver Arts & Venues invites art and architecture lovers to participate in free public art tours on foot, bike and scooter. These free guided tours focus on small segments of the city’s public art collection and give citizens and visitors the opportunity to venture inside venues such as the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and Colorado Convention Center to view works and hear the intimate details of their creation and installation.

Colorado State Capitol Tour

Tour the magnificent, gold-domed Colorado Capitol Building. Stand at exactly a mile high on the steps, see Allen True's beautiful murals, listen in on the Colorado General Assembly, and check out the gorgeous Rose Onyx wainscoting. Free tours are available on the hour 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.

U.S. Mint Tour

Learn how to make money! The U.S. Mint can produce more than 50 million coins a day, each one stamped with a little "D" for Denver. Free guided tours show every step in the process of turning a dull, blank, metal slug into shiny pocket change. Tours are available Monday through Thursday (excluding Federal holidays). All visitors must be 7 years and older. See the Mint's latest policies. 

Denver Story Trek

Ever wonder about the stories of the places you pass? On Denver Story Trek you'll explore the stories behind Denver's historic landscapes and landmarks on an interactive, self-guided tour of the city. It's simple to use and free!

Great Divide Brewery Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Denver's craft beer world on a free tour at the Great Divide Brewery downtown or the Great Divide Barrel Bar in RiNo. Tours at both locations take place at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., Mon.–Fri. and each hour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. 

Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Housed in Empower Field at Mile High (home of the Denver Broncos), the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum honors the legacies of The Mile High City's greatest sports heroes and features the Gallery of Legends, a "Great Moments in Colorado Sports" exhibit and a section celebrating the achievements of girls and women in Colorado Sports.

Denver Central Library

Denver Central Library has an impressive art gallery on the seventh floor. The library is best known, perhaps, for its Western History Collection, which covers the earliest explorations, Spanish land grants, Native American history, the gold rush era and the present day with a particular focus on the Rocky Mountain West.

Denver Beer Trail

The Denver Beer Trail provides a sampling of Denver’s top microbreweries. Follow the suggested routes or pick and choose from the list of featured breweries.

Rockmount Ranch Wear

Browse the racks and enjoy the free museum at Lower Downtown's historic Rockmount Ranch Wear, the originator of the western snap-button shirt. The walls are adorned with photos of the many celebs who have worn Rockmount shirts, including Eric Clapton, Robert Redford and Elvis Presley. 

Tattered Cover Book Store

The Tattered Cover is one of the nation's most well-known independent bookstores with 10 locations across the state. It often hosts free signings by some of the literary world's most famous authors. They also offer free Wi-Fi if you want to surf the net while you're there.