The last month of summer is here.
Welcome to August, a month where everyone’s soaking up the last of the summer vibes while anticipating schools returning and the pumpkin-spiced scent of Autumn. There’s still a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy here in Denver, and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite ways to cool down, eat out, and enjoy those long summer evenings. Stay cool out there this month and enjoy any of these 56 activities that the Mile High City (and the state) has got to offer.
1. Experience these magical Candlelight Concerts in stunning Denver spaces
Of all the performances taking place around the city, few things can beat the spectacle provided by these enchanting candlelight concerts. Flickering candles and classical music create a unique experience at some of Denver’s most elegant indoor and outdoor venues. There are a few special performances this month, like an open-air concert that’ll take you through classical composer, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, to a concert playing renditions of Taylor Swift’s best songs to a touching tribute to Amy Winehouse.
2. Explore your favorite moments from the series FRIENDS
If your life’s a joke, you’re broke, and your love life’s D.O.A then this Friend’s Experience Pop-Up is for you. This one-of-a-kind immersive and interactive experience is coming to the capital, and it’s sure to charm superfans of the 90s sitcom. Bring your ‘lobster’ with you and get ready for hilarious activities, alluring merch, and a dozen nostalgia-packed rooms replicated from the cult series! You can even sit on the iconic orange couch, and don’t forget to leave without capturing a few selfies.
3. Experience art like you’ve never seen before at this Holographic NFT exhibit
It’s 2022 and the newest versions of art galleries are going digital. Don your VR headsets and get ready to join the Metaverse at this truly unique experience. Don’t know what an NFT is? We’ve got you covered. As a warning, the gallery WILL be empty upon arrival, but that all changes as soon as you put the VR headset on, where you’ll be transported to another world. If you’re still not convinced, here’s a couple of reasons why this exhibition is so unique and a can’t miss.
4. Visit an immersive experienced where you can become one with nature
This immersive experience gives you the chance to interact with nature in a completely new and unique way. With over 40 different interactive scenes dedicated to the most beautiful corners of the world and resembling land, sea, and sky, you’re invited to become one with the art. Pose next to life-size insects and plants for unique photo opps and marvel at the work of some of Denver’s most talented artists.
5. Get up close and personal with some of the most frightening monsters at this unique museum
If insects and flowers aren’t your thing, why not give this other immersive museum a go? For fans of creature features, Distortions Monster World, puts Hollywood’s greatest creations on display. Make contact with aliens or finally catch a sighting of Big Foot and marvel at the work of life-sized monsters, that is, if you’re brave enough.
6-11. Spend a Thrilling Afternoon River Rafting
These water rafting companies are here to show you that the sport can be fun for the whole family. Take on the thrills of the Colorado River or take a leisurely paddle in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Adventure awaits in our backyard, and summer is the perfect time.
12. Head over to Denver’s newest food hall that’s hosting 9 unique eateries
Freedom Street Social, a brand new food hall, has arrived at Arvada with over 9 unique places to eat and drink with friends. Start off at the coffee lounge before heading for pizza at Giordano’s Pizza or Osito for tacos.
13-18. Take a summer hike to see some of Denver’s stunning wildflowers
Denver has no shortage of hikes but what makes summer hiking amazing are the stunning blooms of wildflowers we see spring up around the state in August. We rounded up 5 nearby places where you can see beautiful wildflowers and even one amazing place to see the wildflowers within Denver.
19-30. Try something different at one of Denver’s weirdest, most eclectic bars
One word: atmosphere. Denver has no shortage of weird, quirky bars that add to the city’s unique vibes, and we’ve got them all in one unique place. From speakeasies to forest vibes, check out this list and be surprised at what you’ll find.
31-40. Cool down at one of Denver’s secret speakeasies
Prohibition may be over, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t still fans of secret speakeasies. Walk into the past to underground lounges, behind bookshelves, and more at these hidden bars.
41-49. Enjoy a Spectacular Experience at One of These Air BnBs
While we love Denver, there’s absolutely nothing like hitting the road and heading to a different destination. Those trips can be made even more special when you’re staying in a luxurious cabin, treehouse spot, or eclectic hippie’s home. We’ve rounded up some of the coolest Air BnB destinations (and most aren’t that far from Denver) to inspire your next adventure.
50-55. Drink tiki at one of these summer urban oasis bars
If you want to feel transported to a faraway island destination like the Caribbean or Polynesian Islands without getting on a plane then you’re in luck, because there’s a few Tiki Bars in and near Denver that’ll have you feeling good. These urban summer oases have everything you’d want from a tiki bar to huge punch bowls, unique tiki glassware, deliciously on-point snacks, neon lights, and patios.
56. Take advantage of these 2 days in August where you can see any National Park for free
For two days this month, you can visit any National Park in the entire nation for free and, of course, that includes the 4 unique national parks in Denver. Head out into nature on either August 4th or August 25th for totally free access