From world-class art to underground music and inventive tastings, these locally owned spots capture Denver now. Book ahead where noted, and go hungry and curious.
Things to Do in Denver (2025)
11 Places
From world-class art to underground music and inventive tastings, these locally owned spots capture Denver now. Book ahead where noted, and go hungry and curious.
Clyfford Still Museum
Art museum
An essential stop for modern art, this single-artist museum showcases 93% of Still’s output in a serene building. Featured in The New York Times and praised by national critics; check rotating exhibits and free days.
The Kirkland at the Denver Art Museum
Art museum
Salon-style rooms mix fine art with design icons, from Art Deco to midcentury. Praised by Condé Nast Traveler; currently operating while aligning with the Denver Art Museum partnership.
Museo de las Americas
Art museum
In the heart of the Santa Fe Arts District, this community-rooted museum spotlights Latin American art through the year. Recognized by Westword and highlighted by Visit Denver for cultural impact.
RedLine Contemporary Art Center
Art center
An artist-led nonprofit with residencies and socially engaged shows. 2025 programming like High Walls drew regional press from Southwest Contemporary; suggested donation admission supports the local scene.
Dazzle Denver
Jazz club
Denver’s cornerstone jazz club at the Performing Arts Complex, honored by DownBeat and frequently lauded by Westword. Expect national acts, local residencies, and a tribute El Chapultepec piano lounge.
Nocturne
Jazz club
A modern supper club pairing seasonal tasting menus with nightly jazz. Recommended by 5280 and partnered on special events with Opera Colorado; reserve for prime sets.
Denver Graffiti Tour
Tour operator
A two-hour guided walk through evolving murals and street art, blending artist stories with neighborhood context. Featured by 5280; new North RiNo route added in 2025—book ahead.
Spectra Art Space
Art gallery
Homegrown immersive art built by local creators, with rotating exhibitions like Novo Ita and playful opening-night parties. Covered by local arts outlets and community calendars throughout 2025.
Colorado Sake Co.
Japanese restaurant
Denver’s only sake brewery hosts Sake 101 tastings, sushi-rolling classes, live jazz, and weekend dim sum. A lively community hub that blends Colorado craft culture with Japanese tradition.
Bierstadt Lagerhaus
Brewpub
A lager-only temple famous for the Slow Pour Pils and a convivial beer hall. Frequently recommended by local editors; 2025 events and steady hours reflect a thriving, independent RiNo staple.
Black American West Museum & Heritage Center
Museum
A vital Five Points institution celebrating Black pioneers of the West. Operating on limited days with timed entry; highlighted by Visit Denver as central to understanding neighborhood history.
