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Where to Stay in Denver 🇺🇸: 10 Best Areas of the Mile High City

Planning your Denver adventure means choosing the perfect neighborhood that matches your travel style. The Mile High City offers everything from trendy art districts to family-friendly areas, each with its own unique personality and attractions.

 

Whether you’re here for Red Rocks concerts, mountain adventures, or craft beer tours, I’ll guide you through Denver’s top 10 neighborhoods. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which area suits your needs and budget for an unforgettable Colorado experience.

🏠 Best Hotels:

Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋

1. LoDo (Lower Downtown) – Best Place to Stay in Denver for First-Time Visitors

Central location. LoDo puts you right in the heart of downtown Denver, making it perfect for first-time visitors without a car. I walked to Union Station, Coors Field, and the 16th Street Mall within minutes. The light rail connects you to Denver International Airport and surrounding neighborhoods effortlessly.

Nightlife scene. The area transforms after dark with rooftop bars, breweries, and live music venues lining every street. I spent evenings at Wynkoop Brewing Company and danced at Beta Nightclub. The walkable nightlife district means you can bar-hop safely on foot.

Sports and entertainment. Being steps from Ball Arena and Coors Field makes LoDo ideal for sports fans and concert-goers. I caught Nuggets games and walked back to my accommodation in under 10 minutes. The convention center proximity also suits business travelers perfectly.

Activity Price Range (USD)
Brewery tours $15-25
Rooftop bar drinks $8-15
Baseball games $20-80
Concert tickets $30-150

Food and dining. The restaurant scene spans from casual gastropubs to fine dining establishments. I discovered amazing farm-to-table spots along Larimer Street and enjoyed food truck gatherings at Civic Center Park. The diversity keeps every meal interesting.

Transportation hub. Union Station serves as Denver’s main transit center, connecting light rail, buses, and Amtrak services. I used the A-Line to reach the airport and explored surrounding areas like Cherry Creek and Capitol Hill easily. The RTD day passes cost $5.65 and cover the entire metro area.

Best Accommodation in LoDo

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Teatro – This historic boutique hotel in downtown Denver features elegant rooms with Italian marble bathrooms and theatrical-inspired décor in the heart of the theater district.
  • Thompson Denver, by Hyatt – A sophisticated downtown hotel offering modern luxury with rooftop dining, panoramic city views, and contemporary design in the Golden Triangle neighborhood.
  • Element Denver Downtown East – This eco-friendly extended-stay hotel features spacious suites with full kitchens and modern amenities near downtown attractions and the convention center.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Staybridge Suites Denver Downtown by IHG – An all-suite hotel offering apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and evening social hours in downtown Denver.
  • Sonesta Denver Downtown – A contemporary hotel featuring comfortable rooms with modern amenities, fitness center, and convenient location near major downtown attractions.

Best Hostels

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center – An all-suite hotel providing two-room suites with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, and evening reception near the convention center.
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown – A modern hotel offering spacious suites with separate living and sleeping areas, complimentary breakfast, and fitness center in downtown Denver.
  • Hostel Fish – A budget-friendly hostel in downtown Denver offering dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms with shared facilities, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

2. RiNo (River North Art District) – Best Area to Stay in Denver for Culture

Street art everywhere. You’ll find colorful murals covering entire building walls along Larimer Street and Walnut Street. The RiNo Art District showcases local and international artists with rotating exhibitions. I spent hours walking the streets discovering new pieces around every corner.

Creative dining scene. This place offers some of Denver’s most innovative restaurants and craft breweries. You can grab tacos at Comida for around $12 or enjoy wood-fired pizza at Pizzeria Locale for about $15. The food scene here changes constantly with new pop-ups and concepts.

Gallery hopping. Locals recommend visiting during First Friday Art Walk when galleries stay open late. The best spot is Plus Gallery on Larimer Street, featuring contemporary works from emerging artists. Most galleries open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm.

Activity Price Range (USD) Best Time
Gallery visits Free-$5 First Friday evenings
Brewery tours $10-20 Weekends
Food tours $25-40 Saturday afternoons

Shopping for unique finds. You can find vintage clothing at Goldmine Vintage and handmade jewelry at local artist studios. The Source marketplace offers artisan goods and specialty foods. Most shops open around 10am and close by 8pm on weekdays.

Nightlife with character. The area transforms after dark with rooftop bars and live music venues. I discovered amazing cocktails at Death & Co and caught indie bands at Larimer Lounge. The nightlife district stays lively until 2am on weekends.

Best Accommodation in RiNo

Best Luxury Hotels in RiNo

  • Catbird Hotel – A boutique hotel in RiNo featuring modern design with artistic touches, rooftop terrace, and prime location in Denver’s creative arts district.
  • Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Ceros Apartments RiNo – Contemporary apartment-style accommodations offering spacious suites with full kitchens and modern amenities in the heart of the River North Art District.
  • Cambria Hotel Denver Downtown RiNo – A modern upscale hotel featuring contemporary rooms, fitness center, and convenient access to RiNo’s breweries and art galleries.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Vīb Hotel by Best Western Denver RiNo – A vibrant lifestyle hotel offering colorful modern rooms, fitness facilities, and easy access to RiNo’s street art and entertainment venues.
  • The Source Hotel – A unique boutique hotel built around Denver’s historic Source market hall, featuring industrial-chic design and direct access to artisan shops and restaurants.
  • The Ramble Hotel – A stylish boutique property in RiNo offering sophisticated rooms with local artwork, rooftop bar, and immersive neighborhood experience in Denver’s arts district.

3. LoHi (Lower Highlands) – Best Denver Neighborhood for Trendy Nightlife

Highland Bridge views. This place has stunning downtown skyline views from the Highland Bridge pedestrian walkway. You’ll love watching sunsets over the city while locals jog and walk their dogs. The bridge connects LoHi to downtown in just 10 minutes on foot.

Craft beer paradise. Locals say LoHi has the best brewery concentration in Denver. You can sample IPAs at Highlands Tap & Burger for around $6 or try seasonal brews at Berkeley Park Tavern for about $7. The beer scene here rivals any major city.

Upscale dining options. The best spot is Linger, offering global street food in a converted mortuary building. Dinner costs around $25-35 per person and the rooftop provides amazing city views. Root Down serves farm-to-table cuisine for similar prices.

Shopping on 32nd Avenue. You can find boutique clothing at Inspyre Boutique and home goods at Tattered Cover Bookstore. The shops offer unique items you won’t see in chain stores. Most places open at 10am and stay open until 9pm.

Venue Type Average Cost (USD) Peak Hours
Craft breweries $5-8 per beer 5-8pm
Rooftop bars $10-15 per cocktail 7-10pm
Fine dining $25-40 per person 6-9pm

Late-night entertainment. Don’t miss the rooftop scene at Avanti Food & Beverage, where multiple restaurants share one space. The venue stays open until midnight on weekends with live DJ sets. I found the atmosphere perfect for date nights and group celebrations.

Best Accommodation in LoHi

Luxury Hotels in LoHi

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Speer Boulevard – A comfortable chain hotel providing reliable accommodations with fitness center, pool, and proximity to both LoHi and downtown Denver attractions.
  • Residence Inn Denver Downtown – Extended-stay hotel featuring apartment-style suites with full kitchens, separate living areas, and complimentary breakfast near LoHi’s entertainment district.

4. Capitol Hill – Best Neighborhood to Stay in Denver for Local Experience

Historic charm. You’ll find Victorian mansions mixed with modern apartments along tree-lined streets. The neighborhood has kept its authentic character while embracing new businesses. I walked past the Colorado State Capitol building and explored quiet residential blocks.

Diverse food scene. Locals recommend City O’ City for vegetarian comfort food around $12-15 per meal. You can also try authentic Mexican at Tacos Tequila Whiskey for about $10. The restaurants here serve real neighborhood crowds, not just tourists.

Independent shops. This place offers vintage records at Twist & Shout and used books at Capitol Hill Books. You can find handmade soaps at Savory Spice Shop and unique gifts at local boutiques. Most shops open around 11am and close by 7pm.

Coffee culture. The best time to visit is morning when locals grab coffee at Fluid Coffee Bar or Pablo’s Coffee. A cappuccino costs around $4 and the atmosphere feels genuinely local. You’ll hear conversations about neighborhood events and city politics.

Local Spots What They Offer Price Range (USD)
Fluid Coffee Bar Specialty coffee, pastries $3-6
City O’ City Vegetarian meals $10-15
Twist & Shout Vinyl records, CDs $5-25

Community events. Don’t miss the weekend farmers market at Civic Center Park, just a short walk away. Fresh produce costs $2-5 and local vendors sell handmade crafts. The market runs Saturday mornings from 8am to 2pm year-round.

Local attractions within walking distance:

  • Denver Art Museum (Golden Triangle)
  • Cheesman Park and Pavilion
  • Colorado State Capitol building
  • Multiple independent theaters and music venues

Best Accommodation in Capitol Hill

Luxury Hotels in Capitol Hill

  • Patterson Inn – A charming historic bed and breakfast offering intimate accommodations with Victorian-era character and personalized service in the heart of Capitol Hill.
  • Knight Campbell Carriage House – A unique boutique property featuring restored carriage house accommodations with historic charm and modern amenities in Capitol Hill’s cultural district.
  • Warwick Denver – An upscale hotel offering elegant rooms with city views, fine dining restaurant, and convenient location near Capitol Hill’s entertainment venues.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Ember Hostel – A modern hostel providing budget-friendly accommodations with shared and private rooms, communal spaces, and authentic Capitol Hill neighborhood experience.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Downtown – A reliable chain hotel offering comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to both Capitol Hill attractions and downtown Denver.
  • NEW! Apartment in Historic Mansion. Location! Views! – A unique vacation rental in a restored historic mansion offering apartment-style accommodations with period details and stunning city views.

5. Cherry Creek – Where to Stay in Denver for Luxury Shopping

Upscale shopping mall. You’ll find high-end brands at Cherry Creek Shopping Center, including Nordstrom, Macy’s, and local boutiques. The mall opens at 10am and stays open until 9pm on weekdays. I spent entire afternoons browsing designer stores and specialty shops.

Fine dining experiences. This place has some of Denver’s most expensive restaurants like The Capital Grille, where steaks cost around $45-60. You can also enjoy Italian cuisine at North Italia for about $20-30 per person. Reservations are recommended for weekend dining.

Outdoor shopping district. Locals say Cherry Creek North offers the best window shopping with tree-lined streets and outdoor cafes. You can find jewelry at Trice Jewelers and designer clothing at independent boutiques. Most shops open at 10am and close by 8pm.

Spa and wellness. The best spot for relaxation is The Spa at Cherry Creek, offering massages from $120-200. You’ll also find yoga studios and fitness centers throughout the area. I treated myself to a facial after a long shopping day.

Shopping Category Price Range (USD) Store Hours
Designer clothing $100-500+ 10am-9pm
Fine jewelry $200-2000+ 10am-8pm
Spa services $80-300 9am-7pm

Gourmet food options. Don’t miss Whole Foods Market for organic groceries and prepared foods. You can grab sushi for around $12 or salads from the hot bar for $8-10. The store stays open until 10pm daily for convenient shopping.

Best Hotels in Cherry Creek

Luxury Hotels

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Hyatt Place Denver Cherry Creek – A modern mid-range hotel offering spacious rooms with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, and convenient location near Cherry Creek Mall.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Cherry Creek – A reliable chain hotel providing comfortable accommodations, free breakfast, fitness center, and easy access to Cherry Creek’s shopping and dining options.
  • Clayton Hotel & Members Club – A boutique property offering unique accommodations with club amenities, personalized service, and distinctive character in the Cherry Creek area.

Best Hostels

  • Belcaro Motel – A budget-friendly option providing basic accommodations with essential amenities and affordable rates near Cherry Creek’s attractions and shopping venues.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Denver Cherry Creek – A full-service hotel featuring comfortable rooms, on-site dining, fitness facilities, and convenient location for both business and leisure travelers.
  • Moxy Denver Cherry Creek – A trendy lifestyle hotel offering modern rooms with playful design, vibrant social spaces, and energetic atmosphere near Cherry Creek’s entertainment district.

6. Uptown Denver – Where to Stay in Denver for LGBTQ+ Friendly Atmosphere

Welcoming community. You’ll find rainbow flags and inclusive businesses throughout the Uptown neighborhood. The area has a long history of LGBTQ+ acceptance and hosts community events year-round. I felt completely comfortable walking around at any time of day.

Diverse nightlife. Locals recommend Charlie’s Denver for country dancing and drag shows. Cover charges run around $5-10 and drinks cost about $6-8. You can also visit Tracks for electronic music and dancing until 2am on weekends.

Community gathering spots. This place offers Triangle Bar as a neighborhood hangout with pool tables and friendly bartenders. The best time to visit is during happy hour from 4-7pm when drinks are half price. I met locals who shared recommendations for other LGBTQ+ friendly spots.

Supportive businesses. You can find LGBTQ+ owned shops like Blush & Blu for clothing and accessories. The Denver Community Center offers resources and hosts social events. Most businesses display welcoming signage and train staff on inclusive service.

Venue Type Average Cost (USD) Special Features
Gay bars $5-10 cover, $6-8 drinks Drag shows, karaoke
Community events Free-$15 Pride celebrations, fundraisers
LGBTQ+ shops $10-50 Local artists, pride merchandise

Annual celebrations. Don’t miss Denver PrideFest in June, when the entire area becomes a massive celebration. The parade route runs through Uptown and downtown with food vendors and live music. I joined thousands of people celebrating diversity and inclusion.

Best Hotels in Uptown

Luxury Hotels in Uptown

  • Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel – A full-service hotel offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, fitness center, and convenient location near Uptown’s entertainment venues and downtown attractions.
  • The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection – Denver’s legendary luxury hotel featuring historic elegance, world-class spa services, and timeless accommodations in a prime downtown location near Uptown.
  • Grand Hyatt Denver – An upscale hotel providing sophisticated rooms, premium amenities, fine dining options, and easy access to both Uptown’s cultural scene and downtown business district.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Populus, Denver – A contemporary hotel featuring innovative design, modern accommodations, and unique amenities in downtown Denver near Uptown’s vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
  • Hyatt House Denver/Downtown – An extended-stay hotel offering spacious suites with full kitchens, separate living areas, and convenient location for exploring Uptown and downtown Denver attractions.
  • Le Méridien Denver Downtown – A sophisticated international hotel featuring European-inspired design, premium accommodations, and refined amenities near Uptown’s cultural attractions and dining scene.

7. Washington Park Area – Where to Stay in Denver for Families

Large green spaces. You’ll find 165 acres of parkland perfect for family picnics and outdoor activities. The park has playgrounds, tennis courts, and a recreation center with swimming pools. I watched families enjoying paddle boating on the lakes during summer weekends.

Family-friendly dining. Locals say Gaylord Street has the best family restaurants with outdoor patios. You can get burgers at Park Burger for around $10-12 or pizza at Beau Jo’s for about $15-20. Most places offer kids’ menus and high chairs.

Safe neighborhood streets. This place offers tree-lined sidewalks perfect for stroller walks and bike rides. The residential area feels secure with good lighting and regular police patrols. I noticed many families walking to nearby schools and parks.

Educational activities. The best spot is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, just a short drive away. Admission costs $12-18 for adults and $8-12 for children. You can also visit the Denver Zoo for similar prices and spend entire days exploring.

Family Activity Cost (USD) Age Range
Park activities Free All ages
Museum visits $8-18 3+ years
Restaurant meals $8-15 per person All ages

Seasonal events. Don’t miss the summer concerts at Washington Park’s pavilion, featuring free family-friendly performances. The concerts run Wednesday evenings from June through August. I brought blankets and snacks for perfect evening entertainment.

8. Central Business District – Where to Stay in Denver for Business Travel

Corporate headquarters. You’ll find major companies like Qwest and Wells Fargo with offices throughout downtown. The business district connects easily to the convention center and meeting facilities. I attended conferences and reached venues within walking distance of most hotels.

Professional dining. This place offers upscale lunch spots like The Broker Restaurant, where business meals cost around $20-30 per person. You can also grab quick coffee at Starbucks locations on every corner for about $4-6. Most restaurants offer private dining rooms for business meetings.

Convention facilities. Locals recommend the Colorado Convention Center for large events and trade shows. The facility spans multiple city blocks with modern technology and catering services. Registration and parking information is available online for all major events.

Transportation access. The best time to travel is during off-peak hours when light rail and buses run frequently. You can reach Denver International Airport via the A-Line train for $10.50. I used ride-sharing services for quick trips between meetings.

Business Service Cost (USD) Availability
Meeting rooms $100-300/day 24/7 booking
Business lunches $15-35/person 11am-2pm
Airport transport $10-25 Every 15 minutes

After-work networking. Don’t miss happy hour at ViewHouse Ballpark, where business professionals gather after 5pm. Drinks cost around $8-12 and the rooftop offers city views. I connected with local professionals and learned about Denver’s business community.

9. Union Station Area – Where to Stay in Denver for Transportation Access

Transit hub. You’ll find all major transportation options converging at Union Station, including Amtrak, light rail, and bus services. The historic building houses restaurants, shops, and a luxury hotel. I used the station to reach every corner of the Denver metro area.

Food hall dining. This place offers diverse eating options from Terminal Bar’s cocktails to Snooze’s breakfast dishes. Meals cost around $10-15 and the atmosphere buzzes with travelers and locals. You can grab coffee at Pigtrain Coffee for about $4 before catching your train.

Easy airport access. Locals say the A-Line train provides the most convenient airport connection, running every 15 minutes during peak hours. The 40-minute ride costs $10.50 and includes free WiFi. I avoided traffic and parking hassles by using this direct service.

Historic architecture. The best time to visit is during the day when natural light illuminates the Great Hall’s soaring ceilings. You can take free self-guided tours and learn about the building’s restoration. The architecture photography opportunities are endless.

Transportation Cost (USD) Schedule
Airport train $10.50 Every 15-30 minutes
Local light rail $3-5.65 Every 10-15 minutes
Bus services $3-10 Varies by route

Shopping and services. Don’t miss the boutique shops selling Colorado-made products and travel essentials. You can find books at Tattered Cover Bookstore and grab last-minute gifts. Most shops open at 7am to serve early morning travelers.

Best Accommodation Near Union Station

Luxury Hotels

  • The Oxford Hotel – Denver’s most historic luxury hotel dating from 1891, featuring elegant rooms with antique furnishings, spa services, and prime LoDo location steps from Union Station.
  • Good Hotels Downtown Denver – A modern aparthotel offering 20 rooms with city views, kitchenette facilities, and convenient location just 550 meters from Union Station.
  • Larimer Square, Parking included, at The Windsor – A vacation rental apartment in historic Larimer Square featuring one bedroom, balcony access, and included parking.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

Best Hostels

10. Denver Tech Center – Where to Stay in Denver for Corporate Events

Business park setting. You’ll find modern office buildings and corporate campuses spread across this suburban area. The tech center hosts major companies and offers plenty of parking for business visitors. I attended conferences in state-of-the-art facilities with full audiovisual equipment.

Corporate dining options. This place offers business lunch spots like The Broker Restaurant and casual options at Park Meadows Mall. Meals cost around $12-25 per person and most restaurants accommodate large groups. You can also find coffee shops and quick-service options for busy schedules.

Meeting facilities. Locals recommend the Marriott Denver Tech Center for large corporate events and conferences. The hotel offers 50,000 square feet of meeting space with professional catering services. I found the facilities perfect for multi-day conferences and trade shows.

Shopping and entertainment. The best spot for after-work activities is Park Meadows Mall, featuring over 185 stores and restaurants. You can catch movies at AMC theaters or browse shops until 9pm. The mall provides a convenient break from business activities.

Corporate Service Cost (USD) Capacity
Meeting rooms $200-500/day 10-500 people
Catering services $25-75/person Any size group
Audio/visual equipment $100-300/day Full setup included

Transportation connections. Don’t miss the light rail service connecting the tech center to downtown Denver and the airport. The E, F, and H lines provide regular service throughout the day. I used public transit to avoid parking fees and traffic during rush hours.

Best Accommodation in Denver Tech Center

Luxury Hotels

  • The Inverness Denver, a Hilton Golf & Spa Resort – A premier luxury resort featuring championship golf course, full-service spa, elegant accommodations, and upscale amenities in a scenic Englewood location near Denver Tech Center.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Denver Tech – A full-service hotel offering comfortable rooms, fitness center, business facilities, and convenient location in Greenwood Village near major corporate offices and shopping.
  • Wingate by Wyndham Denver Tech Center – A modern hotel providing spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and business amenities in Greenwood Village’s corporate corridor.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Hilton Garden Inn Denver South Park Meadows Area – A contemporary hotel featuring comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and proximity to Park Meadows Mall in Centennial.
  • Hyatt Place Denver-South/Park Meadows – A modern hotel offering spacious rooms with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and convenient location near shopping and dining in Lone Tree.
  • Hyatt House Denver Tech Center – An extended-stay hotel providing apartment-style suites with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities, and corporate-friendly amenities in Centennial.

Best Hostels

FAQ about Visiting Denver

Where to stay in downtown Denver first time?

LoDo offers the perfect place to stay for newcomers with Union Station access and walkable attractions. The heart of Denver provides easy exploration of the downtown area and Denver’s best restaurants within blocks.

Best neighborhoods in Denver for families?

Washington Park area ranks as one of the best places for families seeking a great place to stay. The Denver area combines residential safety with proximity to Denver Botanic Gardens and outdoor recreation.

Should I stay in RiNo or LoDo?

Stay in LoDo for classic Denver downtown experience with sports venues and business district access. Stay in RiNo if you prefer the coolest neighborhood in Denver with street art and craft brewery concentration.

Where to stay Denver without rental car?

Central Denver locations near light rail stations eliminate transportation needs for your trip to Denver. The downtown area connects to Denver Airport and Rocky Mountain destinations through efficient public transit.

Best area stay Denver nightlife scene?

LoHi provides trendy bars in Denver with skyline views and upscale dining options. Capitol Hill area offers diverse entertainment from dive bars to live music venues throughout the neighborhood.

Where stay Denver near convention center?

Central Business District hotels position you steps from Denver Convention Center and downtown attractions. This central stay location connects easily to Denver hotels and Denver’s best restaurants for business travelers.

Thoughts on where to stay Denver mountains?

Golden offers mountain proximity while maintaining access to Denver city attractions and amenities. You can explore Denver during the day and retreat to foothills locations for Rocky Mountain views.

Best place stay Denver baseball games?

LoDo puts you walking distance from Coors Field for Colorado Rockies baseball games and downtown entertainment. The area combines sports access with Denver local dining and nightlife options.

Where find place stay Denver budget?

Capitol Hill and Uptown provide affordable options while keeping you connected to parts of Denver worth exploring. These neighborhoods offer great value with authentic Denver experiences and reasonable accommodation costs.

Should move Denver which neighborhood choose?

Consider your lifestyle preferences when deciding where to stay permanently in Colorado’s capital city. Each Denver neighborhood offers distinct character from urban energy to residential tranquility for long-term residents.

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