Denver, nestled in the Rocky Mountains, is your gateway to some awesome day trips. With prices going up all over the U.S., traveling can get pricey, but don’t worry! There are plenty of cool spots around Denver that won’t hurt your wallet. I’ve got a list of free spots you can explore!
Hop in your car and you can leave Denver’s busy streets behind and dive into stunning landscapes and beautiful historical spots. Let’s check out the top free places you should visit around Denver for a day trip!
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1. DINOSAUR RIDGE
Just imagine that you’re standing where dinosaurs once roamed. It’s thrilling, right?
Back in 1937, when they were building the road to Red Rocks Park, workers stumbled upon Dinosaur Ridge. It’s incredible how the footprints have been preserved here ( they’ve been painted to make them easier to see).
Denver is known as the “Mile-High City” because it sits about one mile above sea level. But about 100 million years ago, this area of Colorado was actually below sea level. Over millions of years, it transformed into the city we know today, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains—a sight that’s hard to believe now. And you can see the traces of those ancient seas with your own eyes. Since It’s under a 30-minute drive from downtown Denver, it’s worth swinging by if you can.
There’s also a visitor center near Dinosaur Ridge, where they offer paid museum entries and tours. However, the trail where you can see the footprints is free to walk. You can drive up close, park along the road, and then it’s a bit of an uphill climb, maybe 10-15 minutes. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes. The path to Dinosaur Ridge doesn’t have shade at all, so don’t forget to apply sunscreen when the sun is out.
Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center
16831 W Alameda Pkway, Morrison, CO 80465
2. RED ROCKS PARK & AMPHITHEATRE
Driving west from downtown Denver, you’ll come upon the stunning Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This Venue, ingeniously built into the natural landscape, is beloved for its breathtaking beauty and excellent acoustics.
Surrounded by red rock formations and with a capacity of over 9,500 people, the amphitheater hosts everything from live music concerts to yoga classes under the open sky.
Getting to the theater involves either climbing some stairs or taking a paved path. Both can be quite challenging if you’re not used to Denver’s high-altitude environment. If you’re not feeling confident, I would recommend sticking to the paved path.
On days without events, or even on event days, depending on the schedule, the amphitheater is open to the public in the morning. Don’t forget to check the official website or look up the latest information on the events before visiting.
There are also hiking trails around Red Rocks, perfect for a nature walk. Plus, the visitor center, which is open daily, offers a chance to learn about the history of Red Rocks and find unique Colorado souvenirs.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater
18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
3. GENESEE PARK
Just a short drive on I-70 from Denver, you’ll find Genesee Park located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, about 30 minutes from the city. This serene haven offers an escape where the stunning landscapes sweep you away from city life.
The park offers some hiking trails where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful nature. However, the true gem of Genessee Park is its bison herds, an extraordinary sight that’s not to be missed. Unlike anything you’d see in a zoo, the bison are not guaranteed to appear close by every day; sometimes, they might be seen in the distance, and other times, they might come closer to you. Bringing binoculars can enhance your viewing experience.
Genesee Park
26771 Genesee Ln, Golden, CO 80401
4. HIWAN HERITAGE PARK
Located near the quaint mountain town of Evergreen, Hiwan Heritage Park offers two delightful ways to spend your day. The park houses a museum where volunteer guides provide free tours, offering a peek into life as it was a hundred years ago.
Tours are available every 30 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis. If there’s a wait, you can explore the museum’s surroundings or enjoy a picnic with your own packed lunch at the tables and benches.
Additionally, if you’re lucky, you might encounter wild elk outside the museum. Elks are large members of the deer family. Although I was not able to snap a photo, we were fortunate to see an elk during our visit. Remember, if you do spot one, keep your distance and observe from afar.
This park is a hidden gem, offering a serene environment perfect for a day out!
Hiwan Heritage Park
28473 Meadow Dr, Evergreen, CO 80439
Opening hours: Thursday & Friday: Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: Noon – 4:30 p.m.
Closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
5. GARDEN OF THE GODS
Get ready to be wowed by the Garden Of the Gods! You can reach the stunning Garden of the Gods just an hour’s drive from Denver and a mere 10 minutes from Colorado Springs. You’re guaranteed to be overwhelmed by the breathtaking view of massive red rocks that suddenly appear before you. The park offers a variety of trails, catering to all levels of hikers, from casual strolls to more intense hikes. You might even spot some rock climbers in action during your hike.
For those who love driving, there’s also a scenic drive that offers beautiful views of the park, making it perfect for those who want to tour the area quickly. The massive red rocks are not only striking but also very photogenic, making this a top recommendation for photography lovers. Additionally, the visitor center offers flexible hours that vary throughout the day, making your visit even more convenient. Remarkably, access to this beautiful park is completely free! If you find yourself in Colorado, Garden of the Gods is an absolute must-visit.
Garden of the Gods
1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
FINAL THOUGHTS
Denver, Colorado, is ideally situated for exploring both nature, culture, and history. The surrounding areas are easily accessible from the city and perfect for day trips. Moreover, many of these destinations offer free admission, adding to their appeal. Make sure to check out these beautiful spots on the weekend or during your next visit to Denver.
