Things to Do In Denver, Colorado July 2026
I’m going to reference an episode in a really old show when describing Denver in July. There’s an episode in Miami Vice (the series) where the main characters Crockett and Tubbs are talking about the heat while looking they’re going to melt. July is hot, busy and a lot of fun in Denver. There are a ton of things to do in Denver if you plan on visiting or if you live here and are trying to make plans for the summer. There are a few must do items that have to be added to your things to do list: visit the mountains, go to a concert and soak in a pool somewhere. Read on.
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Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
(Book a Tour)
Driving in the mountains if you’ve never done it before is really stressful.Thinking about visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? Don’t drive-book a tour instead. Colorado drivers are also slightly unhinged and you’ll be rethinking your life choices if decided to drive up to Rocky Mountain National Park this summer. Also, it’s the busiest time of the year. Let someone else deal with the logistics of visiting park. If you’re traveling on your own or just don’t want to rent a car-book a tour and don’t miss out on a truly beautiful high country experience. I’m talking about the elevation, not the other stuff.
What’s Denver’s Weather Like in July
I’m often amazed by the number of times people tell me that they’re surprised by the fact that Denver is hot in July. It’s hot, sunny and dry-typically very dry in the city of Denver. If you plan on going to the mountains, typically the temperature will be a bit cooler than Denver’s because of the higher altitude and there is the potential for rain and if it gets cold enough in the mountains a random snow flurry. Don’t freak out, those happen pretty infrequently and for pretty short-periods of time. If you’re visiting Denver in July here are a few must have items while you’re here.
- Good shoes for walking
- Shoes for activities such as hiking
- Layered clothing (Just in case)
- Clothes to do some physical activity in (Denverites love to get active)
Of course you’ll be able to pick up items as needed if you forgot something. This is a pretty good short-list of items you’ll likely need while here in July.
Attend a Concert
I’m convinced that Denver is the 5th best music city in the United States. In fact, I think it’s begin to inch its way to being ranked #4 best music city because the variety, venues, prices and range of concerts has finally become extremely varied and super interesting. I’ve shared a starter list of concerts to check out before you arrive.
Each concert venue offers a completely different fan experience and it’s my hope that out-of-state music fans take the risk of coming to visit Denver to see your favorite artists. I think you’ll have a fantastic time while in town.
Eat Your Way Through Denver
I know that you’ve heard that Denver has terrible food. It’s not true. It’s not a food city (that’s true) but there is good food to be enjoyed and I’ve begun to wonder about the palates of the people coming to town. Where are they normally eating. If you want some more insight into the food scene in Denver, listen to the podcast below.
Hang Out and Cool Off at a RoofTop Pool
July is hot AF in Denver. If you’re looking for a rooftop bar to hang out at, you can book a day using ResortPass–something that I plan on doing often this summer. Below are my top picks of best pools to lounge at in Denver.
Enjoy a Favorite Local Festival
July seems to have fewer festivals, but the festivals happening at this time of year are pretty big. If you plan on attending one, definitely double-check the “What you can bring” details for each event. I would also think about your spending budget and bring more than way to make purchases because sometimes the smaller vendors may offer just one way to make a purchase.
Spend the Day At WaterWorld
I don’t go to WaterWorld often even though I love it. I used to take adult international students there during the summer as part of their events schedule. It was always a fantastic time and a great way to cool off on a 90 degree day.
Best Denver Coffee Shops to Enjoy in July
Denver has the top coffee scene in the U.S. right now and I think this has happened because of a couple of reasons. We’re drinking less beer in town and looking for a third place that’s alcohol free. Many people work online and are able to work from their favorite coffee shop for as long as they would like-as long as they make a couple of purchases.
At the time I’m working on this post, Velvet Lasso is working on expanding its space. It’s sexy, has a great variety of pastries and good service. Currently, there’s no patio to hang out in, but it’s really hot in July so that’s ok.
This wonderful neighborhood coffee shop has great coffee and wonderful patios both in the front and back of the shop. Make sure to check out their seasonal menu when you order.
As far as I know, this is the only Cuban style coffee spot in Denver. The pastelitos are insanely good and they’re open until they sell out. Get there early. One thing I will say is that it’s not a cafe in the traditional sense because there’s no indoor seating.
One of my absolute favorite coffee shops in town, Amp Artisan coffee is located in the Free Market space on the Dairy Block in downtown Denver. Amp is a music forward space and almost all of the drinks are music themed. Definitely check out the speciality drinks menu when ordering.
Michelle Jackson is the founder of the website and podcast Square State Colorado. She’s focused on supporting local businesses, sustainability and sharing a more nuanced and thoughtful experience of Denver and the state of Colorado. She grew up in Colorado and is excited to square this Square State with her readers and listeners. Go to: https://squarestateco.com to learn more about Denver and the state of Colorado if you live here or are planning to visit or move here.