Where to Stay in Denver: A Travel Guide on Best Areas, Attractions, Food & More!

where to stay in denver

Are you planning on backpacking Denver? Don’t know where to stay in Denver? Denver is one of America’s fastest-growing cities. This city has a vibrant nightlife, charming history, diverse culture, and its neighborhoods exude friendly vibes. The great layout of streets and smooth transitions between neighborhoods makes Denver city so popular and the most walkable place for travelers. 

No doubt, Denver has a remarkably sophisticated stock of high-end hotels, restaurants, and historical places. As Denver is a big city to explore, it may be overwhelming for you to select the right place if you’re new in town. That’s why we put this guide on where to stay in Denver. Here we’re going to tell you about the most popular & budget-friendly neighborhoods and best hotels in Denver, where you can comfortably stay alone or with your family.  

So whether you want to enjoy outdoor activities, party, know the history of Denver, or just want to taste the most delicious food, you’ll be able to find the best place to stay in Denver for your needs on this list. Here’s our where to stay in Denver guide. 

The Big Question: Where to Stay in Denver?

So, if you’re looking for a fun and interesting place to stay, these are the best areas in Denver, Colorado. We’ve also included some famous restaurants and top things you can explore in that specific zone. Each zone has its own unique character and offerings, so pick the one that’s right for you.

NOTE:

Those who want to travel are advised that before traveling, check the local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19. Also, there may be a change in events and activities due to the pandemic.

1. 

Cherry Creek:  For Luxury & Shopping!

where to stay in denver

Situated close to Downtown Denver (10 minutes by car), Cherry Creek is an absolute paradise in Denver. Not only does it offer world-class dining and high-end accommodation, but also it is a shopping hub for luxury and shopaholic travelers. The cherry creek has something for all types of travelers, so whether you’re a backpacker or budget traveler, this place will fascinate you. 

If you’re staying in this area and want to shop, it is better to book a night (or three) here. Why? Because only Cherry Creek Shopping center has over 160 brands and not only this, this area has 300 independently-owned stores, high-end boutiques, eateries, galleries, and spas. Also, you’ll find many top brands like Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co.

Things to do in Cherry Creek:

  • Shopping, shopping, and shopping. 
  • Wander through art galleries.
  • Attend the Cherry Creek Arts Festival

Restaurants:

  • Cherry Creek Grill
  • La Merise
  • Blue Island Oyster Bar

Where to stay in Cherry Creek:

  • Hyatt Place Denver Cherry Creek 
  • JW Marriott Denver at Cherry Creek – A 4-star hotel
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Cherry Creek
  • Halcyon Hotel

2. Where To Stay in Denver For Budget: Capitol Hill

where to stay in denver

Don’t make the mistake of identifying Capitol Hill as the LoDo (Lower Downtown) because many people call it Downtown Denver. It is named after the Colorado State Capitol building; this whole area is full of historic places and trendy businesses. This place is suitable for all kinds of travelers. 

For example, if you’re on a business trip, visit the Colorado Convention Center, and local tourists can enjoy the Golden Triangle (an area encircled by Lincoln Street, North Speer Boulevard, and East Colfax and Capitol Hill). Main iconic attractions are the Denver Art Museum, Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, Molly Brown House Museum (home of the RMS Titanic survivor, the “unsinkable” Margaret Brown), and the United States Mint.

Things to do in Capitol Hill:

  • Take a free Mall Ride From Civic Center Station.
  • Check out the public art scene in the Capitol Hill neighborhood
  • Go on a free tour of the gold leaf-covered Colorado State Capitol building.

Restaurants:

  • DiFranco’s
  • Mizuna
  • MAX’s Wine Dive

Where to stay in Capitol Hill:

  • Patterson Inn 
  • the ART, a hotel
  • The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection- luxury hotel

3. Where To Stay in Denver For Nightlife Experience: Central Business District

where to stay in denver

The Central Business District (CBD) is located just adjacent to LoDo, and this area is for all types of travelers. Don’t get fooled by its name, Capitol Business District – or CBD is not a business place. It is actually one of Denver’s most fun and lively areas. Here you’ll find local entertainment, shopping avenues, restaurants, cafes, museums, family-friendly attractions, and sports.

From paddleboarding at Platte River to the electric nightlife in CBD, there is something for everyone. Especially famous for high nightlife, you can go to the cool jazz clubs, fun pubs, wild bears, and bustling clubs. At Coors Field, a two weeks celebration of the German beer festival is held in October. There are many family attractions, including Confluence Park, Denver Firefighters Museum, and the Colorado Convention Center.

Things to do in CBD:

  • Check out the Downtown Aquarium, Elitch Gardens, and Denver Beer Trail
  • Visit the legendary Fillmore Music Hall Auditorium.
  • Shop at the 16th Street Mall, a mile-long pedestrian street promenade.

Restaurants:

  • Breakfast at The Delectable Egg
  • Lunch at 5280 Burger Bar
  • Drink cocktails at The Shag Lounge

Where to stay in CBD:

  • Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center 
  • Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown
  • Homewood Suites- Denver Downtown Convention Center
  • Grand Hyatt Denver (luxury hotel)
  • Hostel fish (budget-friendly hotel)

4. Where To Stay in Denver For Family: Lower Downtown (LoDo)

where to stay in denver

Just walk a few blocks from the State Capitol and you’ll reach the hip neighborhood of Denver: LoDo. This area is tucked in between Coors Field and Union Station. We know LoDo is a funky-sounding name, but it stands for Lower Downtown. LoDo is one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods and is the best area to stay in Denver if you want to be in the center of the action.

The whole area is surrounded by beautiful Victorian-style architecture and historic exteriors. You’ll find a myriad of cafes, sports bars & pubs, and fine-dining restaurants and cheap hotels, which means you’ll never get bored around here. Other highlights of this area are Pepsi Center and Ellie Caulkins Opera House at Denver Performing Arts Complex.

Things to do in Lower Downtown (LoDo):

  • Watch a Colorado Rockies baseball game! 
  • Enjoy incredible sweeping vistas from The View house.
  • Visit Larimer Square and Commons Park.
  • See exquisite sculptures, drawings, and installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver.

Restaurants:

  • Grab a drink at the Terminal Bar inside Union Station.
  • Explore the food stalls at the Dairy Block.
  • Drink at Falling Rock Taphouse
  • Huckleberry Roasters

Where to stay in Lower Downtown (LoDo):

  • Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown
  • The Curtis- A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 
  • The Ritz-Carlton – luxury hotel
  • Magnolia Hotel
  • The Maven
  • Four Seasons

5.  Where To Stay in Denver for Youngsters: Highland

where to stay in denver

If you’re wondering where to stay in Denver, We highly recommend the best place in Denver: Highland. This area has countless restaurants, pubs, modern cafes, and interesting shops. The Highland neighborhood is divided into Lower Highland (LoHi) and Highland Square. These LoHi neighborhoods are one of the best places to stay in Denver for couples! Feel relaxed and excited at the same time in this area. Some famous places in this neighborhood are Highland Bridge, Avanti Food and Beverage complex, LoHi Music Festival (which happens every year in July), and more!

Things to do in Highland:

  • Do outdoor fun activities with your kids.
  • Enjoy the Sun at the City of Cuernavaca Park
  • Visit The Museum of Contemporary  

Restaurants:

  • Root Down
  • Ice Cream at Little Man Ice Cream.
  • Grab a beer on Ale House’s rooftop patio.

Where to stay in Highland:

  • The Comma Hotel
  • The Crawford Hotel
  • Highland Airbnbs

 6. Where To Stay in Denver For Kids: Uptown

where to stay in denver

Are you a foodie? Do you love to taste various types of foods? If yes, stay in the Uptown neighborhood in Denver. It is also known as north Capitol Hill because it is located north of Capitol Hill. One of the oldest residential districts in Denver, Uptown is the ideal neighborhood for families. It is home to many all-ages activities, and the whole area can easily be explored on foot. You’ll find great shops, Victorian and Queen Anne structures, charming cafes, and buzzing wine bars here. For fitness enthusiasts, this neighborhood also has a splendid City Park, tennis courts, soccer fields, and lakes. 

There are lots of things to see and do in North Capitol Hill, such as go extensive biking and jogging, eat delicious desserts and visit amazing places like St John’s Cathedral, Ogden Theatre, and Molly Brown House Museum.

Things to do in Uptown:

  • Visit Denver Zoo with your kids.
  • Explore the wonderful exhibits and displays at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in verdant City Park.

Restaurants:

  • The Avenue Grill
  • Steuben’s
  • Masterpiece Delicatessen Uptown

Where to stay in Uptown:

  • Warwick Denver 
  • Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
  • Crowne Plaza Denver 
  • Carriage House in Uptown- rental house

7. Where To Stay in Denver For a Weekend Trip: River North Arts District (RiNo)

where to stay in denver

If you ask us what’s the epicenter of Denver, our answer will be River North Arts District (RiNo). This place is full of fun, liveliness, and adventure. There are many changes that have occurred in this place in recent years. The famous Five Points, which is previously known as “Harlem of the West,” has everything that you need in Denver. From incredible food halls, restaurants to vibrant street art scenes, all of this makes this area a must-visit destination. 

Things to do in RiNo:

  • Take a tour of popular street art tours
  • Go to the annual Crush Walls fest
  • Look for day-of-the-game Rockpile tickets during baseball season.

Restaurants:

  • The Embassy Tavern
  • Hop Alley
  • Fish ‘n Beer. 

Where to stay in RiNo:

  • The Source Hotel
  • The Ramble Hotel
  • Rino Arts Lofts
  • La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Denver Central
where to stay in denver

Final Thoughts!

Denver is such a lively and vibrant city that gracefully merges history, culture, contemporary, and fun. From Denver’s esteemed art galleries and museums to sporting adventures, this city has so much to offer travelers. No matter what’s your age, style, or budget, you’ll find many beautiful things and places to see and visit in Denver.

We hope after reading this blog; now you have got a fair idea of ​​where to stay in Denver and which places to visit. We have tried to cover as many neighborhoods as possible. If We’ve missed anything, let me know in the comments below.

Keep coming to Travelila for more travel tips and guidance to make your journey memorable and easy! 

Also Read:

Top Things To Do In Colorado That You Should Not Miss