Day one in the city
Start at Union Station, the restored rail hub that now holds restaurants, bars and a hotel. From there it is an easy walk to Larimer Square and the restaurants of LoDo.
In the afternoon, head to the River North Art District, better known as RiNo, where the alleys are covered in large murals and old warehouses have become breweries, galleries and food halls.
Mile high, literally
On the west steps of the Colorado State Capitol, one step is marked as sitting exactly one mile above sea level. It is a quick, fun photo stop on the way to the museums around Civic Center Park.
Red Rocks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre in nearby Morrison is a concert venue built between huge sandstone formations. If you can catch a show, do it. On non-show days the park and amphitheater are often open to walk around, and the trails nearby make a great short hike.