Want To Have Fun? But Hate Research? Denver, Nearby Spring Bucket List Right Here

DENVER, CO — Spring is in the air! That means the weather is changing, and everyone is ready to have fun after hibernating all winter. Looking for something to do? We have the list for you!

To make this a one-stop shop, here are 12 can't-miss activities in Denver, plus the best from around the Denver metro area, organized right here in one place. Make the most of all that is offered this spring, and mark your calendar!

Denver Spring Bucket List

1. Gear up! The rodeo is coming to town Friday and Saturday. Tickets here.
2. Immerse yourself in the Denver Cinco de Mayo Festival's parade, vendors, Chihuahua race, children's carnival, live entertainment and more from May 7 to 8. Free admission. Tickets needed for carnival.
3. Benefit nonprofits while enjoying four stages of live music and more at the Denver Day of Rock Festival on May 28.
4. Let the music move you at the Five Points Jazz Festival on June 4. Family-friendly and free.
5. Become an artist at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, which features work by hundreds of artists (plus meetings with artists), immersive art experiences, activities for children and music, July 1 to 3. Free admission.
6. Visit one of the markets in Denver to support the community. Check start dates.
7. Sing your heart out at one of Denver's many upcoming concerts.
8. Try a Coperta Weekly Farm Box full of delicious vegetables, greens and more, plus add-ons. Strict order and pickup window information.
9. Enjoy the weather at "Denver’s Best Biergarten," which serves some pretty strange brews. Don't forget your pup: It's dog friendly!
10. If a rooftop is more your style, try one where the beer is made in the hotel.
11. Attend something at Red Rocks, from one of many concerts to yoga.
12. Make the event at Red Rocks into a day trip and take a look into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, located just below the main stage of the amphitheater.

Around the Denver Metro Area

Arvada

• Look for local art hidden in public on First Friday art drops. Follow the clues.
• Giddyup with some horse riding along one of the equestrian-approved trails.
  • Or — if you aren't quite giddyup level yet — invest in lessons at Arvada's indoor equestrian center.
  • Don't miss the outdoor equestrian center, which is 50 acres of riding areas. Free and open to the public.
• Volunteer at the Horse Protection League in Arvada, which cares for surrendered and seized horses, donkeys and mules without a home. Contact about orientation.
  • If you are an avid equestrian with the appropriate resources and knowledge, adopt a new friend in need of a home.
• Combine a movie with a picnic at Movies Around Town. Free.

Golden

• Take a hike with a bit of challenge but amazing views.
  • Relax on a calmer hike that can accommodate everyone.
  • Make sure to bring the binoculars on this family-friendly hike with wildlife.
• Stargaze at Lookout Mountain.
• Hop to the music, but don't drop your beer at the Hops Drops Evergreen Music and Beer Festival June 25. Tickets required.
• Saddle up for Buffalo Bill Days July 29 to 31.
• Celebrate good times at Movies and Music in the Park on July 15, Aug. 12 and Sept. 9.
• Give kayaking a try, because why not? Golden offers a recreational course, rental opportunities and lessons.
  • If you would rather try a different extreme sport, jump into rock climbing. Plenty of outdoor and indoor spots.
  • Rent an e-bike for a leisurely city ride or a scenic bike trail adventure.

Lakewood

• Experience the city with free and low-cost arts and culture experiences during INSPIRE Arts Week, May 27 to June 5.
• Gather the reusable bags and visit the farmers market on Saturdays from June 11 to Sept. 24.
• Step into the past and spectate at a Vintage Base Ball Match on July 30. Tickets required.
• Tee up at one of Lakewood's two stunning golf courses — not rated too badly, either.
• Enrich yourself every month with First Friday in 40 West Arts. Some months are more of a party, called a Colfax Art Crawl (June is next).
• Follow the green line for a free 4-mile outdoor art experience on the 40 West ArtLine.

Littleton

• Fill your fridge with food from the farmers market on Wednesdays from June 15 to Sept. 28.
• Put your best foot forward during Western Welcome Week, Aug. 12 to 21. Schedule.
• Become a bird enthusiast, learn to keep bees, paint the scenery — never grow bored of new things to do at the Hudson Gardens.
• Boat, paddleboard, fish, swim, visit the dog off-leash area or explore nearby trails at the reservoir. Check for individual open periods and closings.
• Bike, hike or ride a horse along the 27 segments of the High Line Canal.

Bonus!

Check out our outdoor dining guides to find a great restaurant near you where you can enjoy the weather.

• Denver.
• Arvada.
• Golden.
• Lakewood.
• Littleton.