June 21st is the official first day of summer. Summertime in the Denver area is full of fun low-cost activities to partake in. From enjoying what nature has to offer, to art, and concerts, you are sure to find an activity that fits you. With many family-friendly options you’re sure to make memories this summer. We have compiled a list of some great free and low-cost options to entertain you this summer in Denver.
Denver’s City Parks
The Mile High City boasts numerous green spaces to take the kids and decompress. Take a book or some watercolors and enjoy Denver’s more than 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways. As well as an additional 14,000 acres of mountain parks in neighboring counties that are maintained by the City and County of Denver.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater
The renowned concert venue is carved from towering red rock monuments. When there’s no concert, the free visitor center has a museum and Performer’s Hall of Fame. The surrounding park offers hiking trails that weave in and around the colorful red rocks.
Tour the Denver Mint
Learn the rich history of the United States Mint and the productions of billions of coins each year with a free, guided tour of the Denver facility. Free tickets are available from the Tour Information Window Monday through Thursday. They are valid for same-day tours, distributed on a first come, first serve basis.
Free Outdoor Concerts
Downtown Denver is filled with music and in the summer, and you can find many outdoor concerts that are free for all. Some options include City Park Jazz, Concerts in Central Park, and many of the shows at Levitt Pavilion.
Dinosaur Ridge
Explore fossils from millions of years ago at Dinosaur Ridge Trail in Morrison. Featuring famous Jurassic dinosaur bones, such as stegosaurus and Apatosaurus, and Cretaceous dinosaur footprints. With free entry you can hike along Dinosaur ridge and a guidebook is available for use on self-guided tours.
Colorado State Capitol Tour
Take a guided tour of the gold-domed Colorado Capitol Building. Learn the history of the building’s creation and marvel at its flourishes. Open to the public with tours Monday – Friday at 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, and 1:00pm limited to 30 people, on a first come first serve basis.
Garden of the Gods
Located just 60 miles south of Denver, the famous Gardens of the Gods features gigantic 500-foot-high red sandstone rock monuments at the base of Pikes Peak. Admission is free for the park and Visitor & Nature Center. Explore trails through the impressive natural landmark and enjoy exhibits and activities that teach its history inside the Visitor & Nature Center.
Farmers Markets, Fairs, Festivals, and More
Farmers markets take place throughout the summer, where you can purchase local produce, eat fresh food, and often listen to live music. There is also the Highlands Street Fair where you can support local businesses, Five Points Jazz Festival showcasing local jazz musicians on 10 outdoor and indoor stages, and the Cherry Blossom Festival celebrating Japanese heritage. All this and more, check out Denver.org to see a full list of events for this summer.
Free Museum Days
Every year local Museums offer days that are free to the public. These days are often during a specific time frame and may also require you reserve your spot ahead of time. Be sure to check out their webpages for details. Below are free days for this summer at just a few of the places that offer this. Be sure to research other places to go for free through the rest of the year.
Denver Art Museum
Engage with art, explore onsite activities, and experience exhibitions on view all while enjoying free admission!
- Tuesday, July 11
- Sunday, July 30
- Tuesday, August 8
- Saturday, September 9
- Tuesday, September 12
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Satisfy your science curiosity with access to the Wildlife Halls and other permanent exhibitions at the museum!
- Wednesday, June 28th Free Night
- Wednesday, August 16th Free Night
- Wednesday, September 6th Free Night
- Monday, September 18th Free Day
Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street
Enjoy the beauty that nature has to offer, right in the heart of Denver!
- Wednesday, July 5
- Tuesday, August 15
Denver offers many fun and inexpensive summer activities to enjoy! You will be able to keep yourself and your family busy all summer long partaking in all the options. Be sure to check out our event calendar to see the community events we will be attending/hosting and other offers for you to enjoy. Happy summer!