Why You Should Visit Denver, Colorado this Winter

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It’s September 1st as I work on this post and I’m really beginning to think about fall and winter. I love all four seasons of the year, but I particularly love fall, winter and spring. They are great times to visit Denver for a number of different reasons and I thought I would share why you should visit Denver, Colorado this winter. I’m spilling the tea and sharing a few things about winter in Denver that most people would least expect. One thing that I will say is that Denver is a great place to live in and visit during the winter. Read on to find out why.

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Book a Tour

Before I share the itinerary, I do recommend that you also make sure to book a tour while you’re here. There are so many places to visit such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods and Red Rocks. If you’re not planning to rent a car, don’t feel like dealing with mountain driving conditions (a nightmare during the summer and winter) then I strongly encourage you to book a tour with Viator. Leave the driving and planning in their hands.

What Is Denver’s Weather Like During the Winter

No matter how many times I mention this, people refuse to believe that Denver has pretty mild winters. I attended college out East and was traumatized by the weather. I was always confused when people who had never visited Denver would ask me how I dealt with Colorado’s horrible weather. Our winter weather is actually pretty nice. I sit on coffee shop patios almost the entire year and if we get snow (it’s not snowing as much as before) it melts fast. The winters are also incredibly sunny as well.

What is there to Do in Denver During the Winter

One thing that throws some people off is how much Denverites enjoy exploring the mountains. They are essentially our backyard and an integral part of Denver living. One of the best things that has happened is the introduction of daily public transit to the mountains. Want to go to Vail for the day-hop on the bus.

  • Attend the National Western Stock Show and watch the kick off parade that makes its way down 17th Street in Denver.

  • Head to Breckenridge for a Couple of Days-Hop on Bustang, Snowstang or Pegusus (buses) to head up to the mountains and hang out, ski or just enjoy yourselves in the mountains.

  • Watch the Denver Broncos play at Empower Field (Mile High Stadium-Football)

  • Honor your ancestors at the Dia de Los Muertos Festival in Civic Center Park

  • Watch one of the final concerts at Red Rocks in 2025. My favorite shows at the end of this season are T-Pain

  • Cheer on the Denver Nuggets (Basketball) at Ball Arena

  • Dance your ass off at the Deadmau5 concert at Red Rocks (EDM)

  • Enjoy a night at the Denver Center for Performing Arts the show SIX is coming back. Enjoy the very dramatic story about King Henry VIII and his 6 wives.

Colorado Ski Season Has Arrived

Even though many out-of-state tourists will fly out for a ski season vacation in mid-November and December, I actually prefer to start snowboarding in January. I feel like the snow base is much better in January because it feels like Colorado’s snow season has subtle shifted and is starting a little later than before. One event that I’m especially excited about is the Black Greek Ski Weekend happening in December.

Holiday Fun

Winter is the time of year when Coloradans wear beanies, relax in front of a cozy fire and indulge in seasonal drinks at their favorite local coffee shops. Here are a few of my favorite activities and experiences that I love to enjoy at this time.

  • Watching the Holiday Drone Show-This is a newer event and I’m hoping it will happen again this year.

  • Wandering through the Cherry Creek North Winter Wonderland-They also usually have free hot cocoa and cider available as well as performers and other unique surprises.

  • Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens-Every time I visit for this event it’s cold as hell. Bundle up and enjoy the beauty.

  • Denver Christkindl Market-I really enjoy this holiday market and the addition of the Mile High Tree as part of the experience.

  • ICE! At the Gaylord Rockies-Even though the distance to the Gaylord Rockies still drives me crazy, this event is worth attending. I would book a room for the night so that I can make a whole experience of it while I’m there. There’s a spa, swimming pool and fitness center that you can enjoy while there.

Mountain Town Visits

No winter in Denver would be complete without heading to the mountains for winter shenanigans. I have a few regular events that stay in my winter rotation of fun. I try to head up to the mountains several times a month and make a point of soaking in the hot tub, having a glass of wine or sitting in front of cozy fire.

  • International Snow Sculpture Championships in Breckenridge

  • Taking the Amtrak to Glenwood Springs and staying a couple of nights-I’m planning a trip with my mom this year and I’m really looking forward to it.

There are a ton of other experiences that don’t require you to go skiing if you’re not into that sort of thing.

Should You Visit Denver this Winter

Denver is a must visit during the winter season. It’s a city designed to be enjoyed all year long and chilly winter weather doesn’t get in the way of our winter fun. If you love unusual cultural events, great seasonal drinks, sports or the arts-Denver is a wonderful winter visit. Don’t forget to bring extra moisturizer, a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.

Where to Stay During a Winter Visit

Denver has a nice number of hotels that are situated in the Denver city center. I’ve shared some of my favorite hotels and hostels ind Denver.