Want to discover the majestic beauty of Colorado without breaking the bank? Worry not! Colorado isn’t just famous for luxury resorts; it also offers countless amazing experiences that are completely free. From breathtaking hiking trails to world-class art museums, let’s explore Colorado in the most budget-friendly way in this article.
Explore Washington Park (Wash Park)
Washington Park, also known as Wash Park, is a vast green oasis right in the heart of Denver. Spanning over 155 acres, Wash Park provides a wonderful relaxing space to escape the city bustle. You can stroll along winding trails, bike around two serene lakes, or simply lie on the lush green lawn and soak up the sun. In particular, Wash Park also features a beautiful flower garden, modeled after Mount Vernon, George Washington’s famous estate.
Washington Park Denver is a natural oasis in the middle of the city.
With over three miles of walking trails and bike paths adjacent to Cherry Creek, Wash Park is an ideal place to exercise and enjoy Denver’s fresh air. And the best part is, it’s all completely free!
Admire Denver Botanic Gardens on Free Days
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With countless species of flowers and plants from all over the world, this garden offers a fantastic visual and olfactory experience. Wander through the tropical conservatory to admire exotic plants, explore various themed gardens, or learn about the environment at the “think tank” area.
Denver Botanic Gardens is a must-see destination when visiting Denver.
However, admission tickets to the Denver Botanic Gardens can be quite expensive. The good news is that the Gardens often have free admission days for the public. Keep an eye on the schedule on the official Denver Botanic Gardens website so you don’t miss the chance to visit for free! This is a great way to save money while still enjoying the beauty of nature.
Immerse Yourself in Art at the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a cultural treasure trove with a diverse art collection, from Native American art to European and contemporary art. With its unique architecture and fascinating exhibitions, this museum is an ideal destination for art lovers.
Similar to the Botanic Gardens, the Denver Art Museum also has free admission days, usually on the first Saturday of each month. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore famous artworks without spending any money. Remember to check the museum’s website for more details about the free schedule.
Explore Colorado’s Beautiful Parks
Colorado is famous for its magnificent natural landscapes, and there are many beautiful parks for you to explore.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the United States. With snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and breathtaking hiking trails, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Source: nps.gov
Although there is an entrance fee to the park, you can save money by purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass, which allows you to enter all national parks in the United States for a year. In addition, the park also has free entrance days on some special occasions.
Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park is a great option for those who want to enjoy green space near downtown Denver. With a network of hiking and biking trails, a lake, and picnic areas, this park is an ideal place to relax and have outdoor fun. However, there is an entrance fee to the park.
Other Urban Parks
In addition, Denver has many smaller urban parks, such as City Park and Cheesman Park. These parks are free to enter and are ideal for strolling, picnicking, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
Tour the Colorado State Capitol Building
The Colorado State Capitol Building is an impressive architectural landmark, designed in the Classical Revival style. You can take a free tour to learn about the history and architecture of the building, as well as discover interesting stories about the state of Colorado.
When visiting the Colorado State Capitol, you can take photos or selfies at exactly a mile high above sea level.
A special feature of the Capitol Building is the 13th step marked exactly one mile (1,609 meters) above sea level. Don’t forget to take a commemorative photo at this spot!
Stroll Along 16th Street Mall
16th Street Mall is a pedestrianized street stretching over a mile in downtown Denver. With hundreds of shops, restaurants, and bars, this street is an ideal destination for those who want to shop, dine, and have fun.
You can stroll along the mall, admire the beautiful window displays, enjoy street performances, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Free shuttle buses also operate continuously on the mall, making it easier for you to get around.
Explore the Santa Fe Art District
The Santa Fe Art District is a vibrant creative hub with hundreds of art galleries, studios, and theaters. You can visit the galleries for free, admire unique artworks, and meet local artists.
The Sante Fe Art District stands as a local treasure in Denver.
The Santa Fe Art District often hosts special events on the First Fridays of each month, with exhibition openings, musical performances, and other art activities. This is a great opportunity to experience Denver’s art culture.
Walk Through Denver’s Unique Neighborhoods
Denver has many unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality and style. You can walk through these neighborhoods, explore tree-lined streets, admire historic houses, and learn about the city’s history and culture.
- LoDo (Lower Downtown): Historic neighborhood with distinctive Victorian architecture, lively restaurants and bars.
- RiNo (River North): Artsy neighborhood with many street murals, galleries, and cafes.
- Five Points: Historic neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage, jazz restaurants and blues bars.
Tour Hammond’s Candy Factory
Hammond’s Candy Factory is a fun destination for both children and adults. You can take a free tour to learn about the traditional candy-making process, from candy canes to ribbon candy.
Hammond's Candies is a great place to spend free time in Denver while having fun and satisfying those sweet cravings.
During the tour, you can watch candy artisans at work, sample fresh candy samples, and shop for your favorite candy products.
Visit the Free Denver Mint
The Denver Mint is one of six coin production facilities in the United States. You can take a free tour to learn about the coin-making process, from design to minting and packaging.
Although tours may not be offered as frequently as before, you should still check the official Denver Mint website for updated information on tours and other activities.
Conclusion
With countless free and affordable activities, Colorado is a great destination for travelers who want to explore the beauty of nature and culture without spending too much money. Plan your trip today and experience the amazing things Colorado has to offer!
Are you ready to explore Colorado on a budget? Share your budget travel tips and experiences in Colorado in the comments below!