Hotels in Denver

The most practical bases in Denver are LoDo (Lower Downtown), walkable to Union Station and the 16th Street Mall; Capitol Hill for arts venues and the Colorado State Capitol; RiNo (River North Art District) for galleries and craft breweries; and Cherry Creek for upscale shopping and quieter streets. Most visitors stay two to four nights; Denver International Airport is 35–45 minutes from downtown via the University of Colorado A Line commuter rail.

Where to Stay

LoDo anchors the historic core around Union Station (opened 1881, restored 2014) and suits travelers who want walkable access to restaurants, the Ball Arena, and Coors Field. RiNo, north of downtown along the South Platte River, draws younger visitors to its converted warehouses and more than 60 craft breweries. Capitol Hill, east of Civic Center Park, places guests near the Denver Art Museum and the Molly Brown House. Cherry Creek North offers a residential calm with high-end boutiques about 2 miles southeast of downtown.

Getting Around

Denver's RTD light rail and bus rapid transit network connects the airport, downtown, and suburbs. The Free MallRide bus runs the length of the 16th Street Mall at no charge. A car is useful for day trips into Rocky Mountain National Park, 65 miles northwest via US-36.

Practical Tips

• Altitude: Denver sits at 5,280 feet (1,609 m) — allow one to two days to acclimate before strenuous activity.
• Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms are common June through August; pack a light layer year-round.
• Airport rail: The A Line runs every 15 minutes and costs around $10.50; journey time is approximately 37 minutes to Union Station.
• Cannabis: Recreational use is legal for adults 21+ in licensed venues; consumption in public spaces is prohibited.