You could spend a ton on vacation, but that doesn't mean you have to! We have a few years of practice finding the best deals and free days around town, and we want to share them with you. Below, some of our best options for the budget-conscious.
Free building tours are given Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. every hour on the hour, but that's not the best thing about visiting the State Capitol. These tours are the only way to get to the top of the capitol dome, which gives you a perfect 360 degree view of Denver, the mountains, and the plains (unless you know the Governor, or something). Don't pass up this opportunity!
Hate heights? The capitol is open to the public from 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, and the mile high step in the front of the building is open 24/7.
Note: arrive for tours a little before the hour to reserve your spot. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more.
#2 The First Weekend of the Month Saves
Every first Saturday of the month is free to the public (special exhibits are ticketed) at the Denver Art Museum. You could easily make a day-trip out of your visit, stopping by Zeps Epiq Sandwiches for lunch, then Broadway Market for dinner and drinks.
If you love abstract expressionism artwork and stunning, airy architecture, The Clyfford Still Museum houses the magnificent, larger-than-life works of Clyfford Still and is free every Friday night from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. This museum takes about an hour to go through, and is definitely worth the visit!
#3 Explore 16th Street + Union Station
The free mall shuttle runs all day down 16th street, carrying passengers through the heart of Denver at no cost. Hop on and off to explore local shops. At the end of the line, you can visit The Tattered Cover, Colorado's largest independently owned and operated bookstore. From there, you can cross the street to beautiful Union Station.
Pro Tip: The Terminal Bar serves great drinks and offers free shuffle board to patrons with ID.
Located in Golden, CO (easily accessed by the 16L Bus), the Coors Brewery offers free tours and a history of this iconic company that's synonymous with Denver history. You'll see the Coors name everywhere in Denver, and getting a taste of their history (and beer) is exciting and unique.
What free stuff did you get to explore during your visit to Denver?