Best times to explore the four-season city of Denver

Each season in Denver offers a unique charm, from the sparkling snow of winter to the colorful leaves of autumn. Situated at 5,280 feet above sea level, the weather in the Mile High City is a key factor when planning your visit, though there are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s capital city perfectly balances outdoor excitement with urban comforts. You can enjoy a morning bike ride along a scenic path, immerse yourself in culture at a top-notch museum in the afternoon, and savor a gourmet tasting menu in the evening.

As you begin to plan your trip to Denver, take note of the seasonal variations and determine the best time for your visit.

June through August is the prime time for hiking and enjoying beers on patios

Denver locals love the outdoors, but there’s nothing quite like relaxing with a cold craft beer on a sunny patio. Experience the best of both worlds by visiting in summer when temperatures typically reach the 80s and low 90s, though the heat feels milder due to the low humidity.

Wander through the city on foot by visiting picturesque locations like City Park or the South Platte River Greenway. For a more challenging hike, venture into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains just west of the city.

After your adventure, refresh yourself at one of Denver’s acclaimed craft breweries, such as Our Mutual Friend Brewing or Comrade Brewing (be sure to ask for a flight to sample a variety of beers).

During June, July, and August, you can enjoy a concert or join a yoga class at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Located about 15 miles west of downtown, this city-operated park features a stunning open-air concert venue carved from red sandstone. On Saturdays and select weeknights, you can also explore vibrant farmers markets, including the Union Station Farmers Market and the Cherry Creek Fresh Market, offering fresh produce, herbs, and flowers.

Summer marks Denver’s peak tourist season, so it's wise to book flights and accommodations well in advance to snag the best rates. Be prepared for busy trailhead parking lots, and consider rising early to avoid the crowds.

November to December is the ideal period for holiday lights and festive cocktails

The Mile High City embraces the holiday spirit with stunning light displays and festive traditions at nearly every turn. This same excitement translates into inventive cocktails—both warm and chilled. Throughout the month from Thanksgiving to Christmas, over a dozen extravagant pop-up bars appear across the city, while established venues refresh their menus and decorations to celebrate the season.

Denver boasts several cherished holiday light traditions, including Zoo Lights, an annual event at the Denver Zoo featuring over a million lights, some shaped like familiar animals. Another highlight is Blossoms of Light, which brightens the wintry beauty of the Denver Botanic Gardens. In downtown, the Denver City & County Building shines with vibrant red, green, and blue lights, while the dazzling Mile High Tree towers at an impressive 110 feet.

You don’t need to wait for nightfall to get into the holiday spirit in Denver. Enjoy ice skating at Skyline Park, warm up with a mug of glühwein at the Denver Christkindlmarket, or indulge in afternoon tea at the Brown Palace, complete with scones and clotted cream.

January through March is the prime time for snow-related activities

Given Colorado’s global standing as a destination for skiers and snowboarders, you might be surprised to learn that winter is considered a low season in Denver. Many travelers pass through the city on their way to the Rocky Mountain ski resorts. This means better deals for you, as accommodations in the Mile High City become more budget-friendly once the snow starts falling.

Speaking of snow... while Denver enjoys its fair share of powder days, the climate here is generally mild, with plenty of sunshine. January and February see temperatures ranging from the low 20s to upper 40s, climbing into the 50s by March. However, don’t be misled by March; it’s often the snowiest month in Denver.

Winter is a perfect time to seek warmth inside one of the Mile High City’s renowned museums, such as the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and the History Colorado Center. Afterward, indulge in a meal at one of Denver’s innovative restaurants, which are gaining international acclaim. Many local chefs and establishments have received recognition from the James Beard Foundation, and the Michelin Guide has announced its arrival in Denver and a few other Colorado cities.

If you visit in January, don't miss the National Western Stock Show, a cherished annual event that highlights Denver’s rich farming and ranching heritage. This 16-day festival, featuring livestock shows, rodeos, and Western art, has been a beloved tradition since 1906.

September to October is the optimal time for vibrant autumn hues

Throughout the fall, fiery red maples, golden-yellow cottonwoods, bright orange oaks, and striking purple ash trees adorn Denver’s parks and trails. The leaves begin to change in September, reaching their peak display in October, when warm days transition into cool nights. Despite the stunning colors, fall is a shoulder season in Denver, offering fewer crowds, more affordable accommodations, and a relaxed atmosphere.

While fall foliage is plentiful throughout the city, some prime spots for leaf-peeping include Washington Park and Sloan’s Lake. For the best photos, explore these areas during the evening “golden hour,” just before sunset, when the sky bursts with vibrant orange and purple as the sun sets behind the mountains.

The greater Denver area features a variety of apple orchards, many offering pick-your-own options. In September and October, you can harvest tart honeycrisps, classic jonathans, and tangy winesaps at places like Berry Patch Farms and Ya Ya Farm and Orchard. Additionally, pumpkin patches and corn mazes at Chatfield Farms and Anderson Farms provide fun activities for families.