When the summer sun is blazing and the temperatures are soaring, staying cool and finding ways to enjoy the day becomes a top priority. Luckily, Denver offers a plethora of activities that are perfect for beating the heat and making the most of a scorching summer day. Whether you’re a local looking for some relief from the sun or a visitor seeking fun ways to explore the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From water-based adventures to indoor attractions, here are some fantastic things to do on a hot day in Denver.
Take a Dip in a Pool or Water Park
One of the best ways to cool off on a hot day is by taking a refreshing dip in a pool or water park. Denver boasts several aquatic centers and water parks where you can splash around and have a blast with friends or family. Head to Water World, one of the largest water parks in the United States, for thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Alternatively, visit one of Denver’s public pools or recreation centers for a more relaxed swimming experience.
Explore Denver’s Museums and Indoor Attractions
Escape the heat by exploring Denver’s fascinating museums and indoor attractions. Spend the day learning about art, history, and science while staying cool in air-conditioned spaces. Visit the Denver Art Museum to admire a diverse collection of artwork spanning centuries and cultures, or explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for interactive exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration.
Enjoy Indoor Entertainment
On scorching summer days, indoor entertainment venues provide a welcome respite from the heat. Catch a movie at one of Denver’s cinemas, where you can enjoy the latest blockbusters in air-conditioned comfort. Alternatively, challenge your friends to a round of bowling at a local alley or test your skills at an indoor arcade or laser tag arena.
Visit an Ice Cream Shop or Gelateria
Indulge your sweet tooth and cool down with a delicious frozen treat from one of Denver’s many ice cream shops or gelaterias. Whether you prefer classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla or more adventurous options like salted caramel or mango sorbet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Treat yourself to a cone, cup, or milkshake, and savor every refreshing bite.
Go Shopping at Indoor Malls and Markets
Beat the heat while satisfying your retail cravings by spending the day shopping at indoor malls and markets. Browse a wide selection of stores, boutiques, and shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and gifts. Explore popular shopping destinations like Cherry Creek Shopping Center or the Denver Pavilions, where you can shop ’til you drop without breaking a sweat.
Escape to the Mountains for Cooler Temperatures
If the heat in the city becomes unbearable, consider escaping to the nearby mountains for cooler temperatures and outdoor adventures. Head west of Denver to explore scenic mountain towns like Breckenridge, Vail, or Estes Park, where you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or simply relaxing in the shade of towering pine trees.
Take a Leisurely Stroll in a Shaded Park
When the sun is beating down, seek refuge in one of Denver’s lush parks and green spaces, where you can take a stroll or enjoy a picnic in the shade. Visit City Park or Washington Park for expansive lawns, scenic views, and plenty of trees providing natural shade. Pack a picnic basket with snacks and drinks, spread out a blanket, and spend the day soaking up the beauty of the outdoors while staying cool.
Explore Indoor Botanical Gardens
Experience the beauty of nature without braving the heat by visiting one of Denver’s indoor botanical gardens. Explore tropical rainforests, desert landscapes, and exotic plant collections while enjoying the climate-controlled environment of a greenhouse. Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens’ main location or the nearby Chatfield Farms to immerse yourself in a world of botanical wonders.
Attend a Matinee Performance or Comedy Show
Beat the heat by enjoying a matinee performance or comedy show at one of Denver’s theaters or comedy clubs. Escape to the air-conditioned comfort of a theater or comedy venue and enjoy live entertainment that will keep you laughing, singing, or on the edge of your seat. Check local listings for upcoming shows and performances that are sure to provide hours of indoor entertainment.
Relax at an Indoor Spa or Wellness Center
Treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation and pampering at an indoor spa or wellness center. Escape the heat and unwind with a massage, facial, or spa treatment designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. Indulge in a day of self-care and leave feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the rest of summer with renewed energy.
Discover Indoor Sports and Fitness Activities
Stay active while staying cool by participating in indoor sports and fitness activities. Many recreation centers and gyms in Denver offer indoor facilities where you can play basketball, volleyball, or racquetball, or try out a group fitness class like yoga or Pilates. Get your heart pumping and break a sweat without having to brave the scorching summer temperatures outside.
Attend a Cooking Class or Food Tasting Event
Expand your culinary skills and indulge your taste buds by attending a cooking class or food-tasting event in Denver. Learn how to prepare delicious dishes from professional chefs or sample gourmet cuisine from local restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned foodie, you’re sure to enjoy the opportunity to experiment with new flavors and techniques while staying cool indoors.
Cool Off with a Cold Brew or Iced Coffee
Quench your thirst and cool off with a refreshing cold brew or iced coffee from one of Denver’s many specialty coffee shops. Beat the heat while enjoying your favorite caffeinated beverage, whether you prefer a classic cold brew or a trendy iced latte. Take a stroll through downtown Denver and explore the city’s vibrant coffee scene, discovering cozy cafes and hip roasteries along the way.
Take a Scenic Drive
Escape the city heat and embark on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Denver. Hit the open road and explore nearby mountain passes, winding canyons, and picturesque valleys. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at a scenic overlook to enjoy panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains or a tranquil alpine lake. Roll down the windows, feel the breeze on your face, and enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s natural scenery from the comfort of your car.
Explore Denver’s Underground
Discover Denver’s hidden history by exploring the city’s underground tunnels and historic sites. Join a guided tour or embark on a self-guided adventure to uncover the secrets of Denver’s past, from its days as a bustling frontier town to its role in the gold rush era. Visit underground speakeasies, historic saloons, and hidden passages beneath the streets of downtown Denver, and learn fascinating stories about the city’s colorful past.
Attend an Outdoor Concert or Music Festival
Dance the night away under the stars at an outdoor concert or music festival in Denver. Enjoy live performances by local bands and nationally renowned artists in scenic outdoor venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre or Levitt Pavilion. Pack a picnic dinner, grab a blanket or lawn chair, and soak up the sounds of summer while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a fun way to spend a summer evening, outdoor concerts offer an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Go on a Sunset Hike
Experience the magic of a Colorado sunset with a scenic hike in the foothills near Denver. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails to explore stunning vistas, rugged terrain, and breathtaking panoramas. Choose from a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging ascents, and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors as the sun dips below the horizon. Capture the moment with a stunning sunset photo and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Embark on an Escape Room Adventure
Immerse yourself in an exhilarating escape room adventure and put your problem-solving skills to the test. Gather your friends or family and challenge yourselves to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and unlock mysteries within a themed escape room. EscapeWorks Denver offers a variety of thrilling escape room experiences, from solving a murder mystery to escaping from a haunted house. Step into a world of excitement and intrigue as you work together to unravel the secrets and escape before time runs out.
As the sun beats down on Denver, EscapeWorks Denver offers a cool and exciting escape from the summer heat. Step into our immersive escape rooms and embark on a thrilling adventure where you’ll race against the clock to solve puzzles, crack codes, and uncover hidden clues. Whether you’re a seasoned escape room enthusiast or new to the world of immersive gaming, our rooms offer an unforgettable experience for friends, families, and coworkers alike.
With a variety of themed rooms to choose from, including mysteries, thrillers, and adventures, there’s something for everyone at EscapeWorks Denver. So gather your team, beat the heat, and escape into adventure today!
