If you’re in town for a convention or business meeting, chances are good that your free time is going to be extremely limited. There are people to meet, connections to be made and parties to attend. But with a little planning, you can use those precious spare hours to find out why Denver’s reputation as a truly world-class destination grows stronger with each passing year. Here’s a quick three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your Mile High stay.

 

DAY 1: Explore Downtown

MORNING

Breakfast at Denver Union Station

Start your day in Lower Downtown (LoDo) at Denver Union Station, a striking 1914 Beaux-Arts building. Besides being the city's transportation hub, it's a great place to hang out and get some work done. Have a hearty breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery, or if you're in a hurry, swing by Pigtrain Coffee Co. Then head down the 16th Street pedestrian promenade for a nice walk or hop on the 16th Street FreeRide. You can get almost anywhere in downtown from here.

 

AFTERNOON

Lunch at Dairy Block

Head back to LoDo for lunch at Dairy Block, a walkable micro-district that contains Denver Milk Market, a diverse mix of culinary concepts, and the Alley, a laid-back place to have a drink. After lunch, check out McGregor Square, a must-see for sports fans with its 17,000-square-foot plaza, a food hall and a stadium-sized LED screen near Coors Field.

 

EVENING

 

Dinner in Larimer Square

Some of Denver’s best restaurants can be found on Larimer Square, such as Rioja (Mediterranean), Osteria Marco (Italian), Tamayo (Mexican) and Ocean Prime (seafood). If you're in the mood for laughs, head to the renowned Comedy Works Downtown. You'll see top talent from all over the country as well as local stars. Another option is to take a walk over to Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet. There are plenty of sitting areas, and the Cherry Creek Trail is a great place to go for a run or walk in the mornings or evenings. It's flat in case you haven't acclimatized to the elevation. 

 

DAY 2: Five Points, RiNo and Golden Triangle

MORNING

Breakfast in Five Points

Five Points is one of Denver's oldest and most diverse neighborhoods. The district was known as the "Harlem of the West" because it was a frequent stop for jazz greats. At Rosenberg’s Bagels & Delicatessen, you're in for something authentic. They use a custom water filtration system to replicate the mineral profile of New York City water, resulting in chewy bagels with tons of topping options. Or have some breakfast tacos and noteworthy coffee at Taco Uprising. 

 

AFTERNOON

 

Lunch in Golden Triangle 

The Golden Triangle Creative District is a mix of arts, culture and history. Have a bite to eat at Little India Restaurant & Bar for a taste of South Asia, or head to Leven Deli Co. for some homemade goodness. If you can take a break to be inspired by a world-class museum, Denver Art Museum also has a great restaurant, The Ponti, with an outdoor terrace. History buffs won't want to miss History Colorado Center or the Molly Brown House Museum.  The Clyfford Still Museum is another world-class institution where you'll see unique large-scale paintings.

 

EVENING

Dinner in RiNo

The River North Art District (RiNo) blends urban charm and unique industrial revival. It's also known for street art that you'll see pretty much everywhere. It's also home to great restaurants like Beckon, Safta Restaurant and Mister Oso, plus two food halls, The Source Hotel & Market Hall and Denver Central Market, where, if you're with a group, everyone can find what they want. Nocturne is a great option for something more intimate with live jazz nightly. For some after-dinner fun, head to the F1 Arcade to try your hand at full-motion racecar simulators, have a glass of wine at Bigsby's Folly Craft Winery or a cocktail/mocktail at Honey Elixir Bar.

 

DAY 3: Red Rocks, Foothills and Highland

MORNING

Breakfast at a Local's Favorite Diner or Donut Shop

Whether you're craving fancy toast or a genuine Cajun breakfast, check out these great breakfast spots.

 

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Only about 20 minutes from Denver is one of the world's most famous concert sites. While the biggest stars perform in the evenings, it's a stunning place to visit in the mornings with the sandstone monoliths and miles of trails in the surrounding park. From Morrison, you can follow the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway and stop at fascinating historical sites like the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave and take in the views from Lookout Mountain.

 

AFTERNOON

Lunch in Golden

The Lariat Loop will deliver you to Golden, famous for its Wild West spirit. Stop for lunch at the Nomad Taqueria & Beer Garden, the Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse or The Golden Mill.

 

EVENING

 

Dinner in LoHi

Wrapping things up in the Lower Highland (LoHi) neighborhood is a perfect place to toast to a productive trip while taking in the breathtaking city views from Linger and El Five. Or take a group to Avanti Food & Beverage food hall with a cozy lounge and multi-level outdoor patios, also with city views. For an after-dinner treat, you absolutely shouldn't miss Little Man Ice Cream, serving up a huge menu of changing flavors from a giant milk can. It's been named one of the best ice cream shops in the country.