Welcome to the “Mile High City,” where 300 days of sunshine, a remarkably walkable downtown, and the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains set the stage for one of the most exciting cities in America. Dive into our curated guide featuring some of the Denver cate night ideas!
Let’s get to planning the BEST Denver date night!
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Table of Contents
Free Activities for Couples in Denver
Did someone say free?! Who doesn’t love an affordable date night? Here are the best free things to do in Denver for your next date night!
1. Discover the Beauty of the Iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Start your day by taking a scenic drive to Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This iconic destination is not just a concert venue; most people don’t know about the incredible hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding red sandstone formations! And, when there’s not a concert…it’s completely free to explore!
2. Experience Culture at Clyfford Still Museum
Get a dose of culture by visiting the Clyfford Still Museum located in downtown Denver’s Golden Triangle Creative District. Every Friday from 5 pm to 8 pm admission is free.
3. Enjoy a Picnic at Washington Park
Why not continue enjoying the beauty of the Mile High City?! Enjoy a leisurely walk hand-in-hand at Washington Park – one of Denver’s most beautiful parks. Experience the picturesque lakes, vibrant gardens, and tree-lined paths — this park is the perfect spot for a romantic afternoon picnic or simply soaking up each other’s company.
Adventurous Date Night Ideas in Denver
And, next up on this Denver date night list is my personal favorite…adventurous dates! From cruisng around town via scooters to roadtrippin’ to RMNP, there are so many fun things to do for couples in Denver who love a good adventure!
4. Explore Downtown on Electric Scooters
Rent electric scooters and zoom around downtown Denver together! This fun and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation allows you to explore popular sights, try out local eateries, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city all on two wheels.
5. Try Indoor Rock Climbing
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush for your Denver date night, head to one the city’s indoor rock-climbing gyms. It’s a thrilling activity that will test your strength and endurance. Don’t forget to chalk those hands!
Insider Tip: Many locals are loyal to the Movement gyms, and luckily there are several locations sprinkled throughout the city, so you have options!
6. Go on a Haunted Pub Crawl
If you’re in the mood for some spooky vibes paired with some great brews, try one of the haunted pub crawls! This is a great way to learn more about the history of the city and check out the local bar scene. Just make sure a ghost doesn’t follow you home!
Insider Tip: Nightly Spirits offers two different experiences, one for the LoDo (Lower Downtown) Neighborhood and one for SoBo (South Broadway) so you can pick your poison for the night!
Book your Denver Boos and Brews Tour here!
7. Road Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
Okay, this date day idea isn’t right in the city of Denver, HOWEVER, it’s well worth the day trip. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most magical National Parks in the USA and it’s just a short 2-hour drive from the city center.
You and your significant other can spend the day hiking, picnicking, wildlife-searching, or simply enjoying the views from the many viewpoints. If you only have time for one hike, I highly recommend checking out Emerald Lake (pictured above) as it’s a pretty easy hike that takes you past 3 scenic lakes.
Side Note: If you do not want to drive, you can check out guided day trips to the park!
Best Date Night Spots in Denver for Art-Lovers
Although Denver is known for its outdoorsy vibe, it’s also a mecca for art museums and galleries. Here are the best artsy date nights in Denver!
8. Denver Art Museum
A classic choice for art enthusiasts, the Denver Art Museum offers one of the best date night ideas in Denver. Explore its diverse collection of American Indian, European (Van Gogh! Manet! van Dyck!), and contemporary art exhibits together.
Insider Tip: Before planning your date, be sure to check the museum’s website — for select Saturday’s in 2024 they’re offering free admission even if you’re a non-resident!
9. Clyfford Still Museum
For folks seeking a more intimate setting, the Clyfford Still Museum is the place for you! Admire the abstract expressionist works of this renowned artist while enjoying a peaceful evening with your partner.
10. Street Murals Tour
Explore Denver’s vibrant street mural scene together! From colorful graffiti murals to thought-provoking artistic expressions, these outdoor masterpieces make for great photo opportunities and an all-around immersive activity.
Insider Tip: You’re more than welcome to do a self-guided tour, but if you have the means check out the woman-owned and operated Denver Street Art Tour to get even more social, political, and artistic insights behind each piece.
11. Denver Center for Performing Arts
There’s nothing like a live show! Take your date night up a notch by attending a show at the renowned Denver Center for Performing Arts. Check the event calendar to see which shows are coming up each month!
12. Couple’s Painting Classes
Attending a couples’ painting class is one of the best activities for couples in Denver! During your class you and your partner can unleash your creativity while sipping on wine and enjoying each other’s company.
More Unique Activities for Couples in Denver
Still looking for more date night Denver ideas? Here’s some of my favorites that go beyond dinner and a movie.
13. Explore Denver’s Oldest Hotel
Step back in time and experience Denver’s oldest hotel, The Oxford Hotel. The hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with a twist of modern elegance.
Insider Tip: After you’re done exploring the lobby and grounds, be sure to grab a drink at the iconic speakeasy, the Cruise Room — they even offer a Cocktail Class Experience the first Thursday of every month!
14. Wine Tasting
Visit The Infinite Monkey Theorem urban winery for a unique wine tasting experience right in the heart of Denver – this is the perfect spot for wine enthusiasts or those looking to expand their palate together!
15. Comedy Show
Share a laugh together and attend a comedy show or improv performance at one of Denver’s renowned comedy clubs like Comedy Works or Voodoo Comedy.
16. Oakwell Beer Spa
What if there were a place where you could enjoy all the benefits of a spa paired with a delicious local craft beer? We’d point you in the direction of the Oakwell Beer Spa, of course!
For 90-minutes, bask in the private beer bath, unwind in the infrared sauna, and enjoy some light bites with your partner. Mark Oakwell Beer Spa down as one of the most relaxing things to do for couples in Denver!
Insider Tip: Reservations tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to lock in your desired date as early as you can!
17. Get Your Golf Game on at Holey Moley
Located on 18th Street, this is probably the craziest game of golf you’ll ever play! With kitschy themes like “Makin’ it Rain” and “Morning Tee with Granny” — you and your date are bound to have a blast while sipping on fun themed drinks like the “Par-Tee Punch” or “Pop Till You Drop” (which comes in the cutest unicorn cup! Are you obsessed yet?!).
Best Restaurants for Date Nights in Denver
This wouldn’t be a true Dallas date nights list without included fun restaurants to try! Below are the best restaurants for date nights in Denver!
1. Bar Dough
From artisan pizzas with inventive toppings to hearty sandwiches on freshly baked bread, it’s no surprise why Bar Dough is on our list as one of the best restaurants for date night in Denver!
With a cozy ambiance and incredible food and handcrafted cocktails, what’s not to love about this modern-rustic Italian spot? Don’t forget to ask for the dessert menu! With selections like Olive Oil cake and Panna Cotta, you will be transported straight to Italian food heaven!
2. Hapa Sushi
In the mood for some delicious sushi with a casual atmosphere and a great happy hour? Look no further than Hapa Sushi!
With several locations around the city, you’re bound to find one during your next date night planning-sesh. With an everyday (yes, everyday!) happy hour from 2:30pm – 5:30pm, you simply can’t go wrong!
3. Thirsty Lion Gastropub
The Thirsty Lion Gastropub is the perfect spot for a spring or summer date night with their patio stationed right next to the iconic Union Station. Check out their expansive drink list and marvel at their wide range of tapas and the good ole fashioned comfort food.
Psst! Bringing your pet along on your date? Here’s a list of the best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Denver!
Denver Date Night Ideas Recap
Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure and thrills or maybe interested in checking out the art and food scene, Denver will quickly become your new favorite place to let loose.
Whether you’re a local couple seeking to rediscover hidden gems or tourists eager to make some Kodak memories, we hope these Denver date night ideas inspire you to explore the city’s vibrant and exciting atmosphere!
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