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✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Denver, USA: Apr or May 2025

Denver, USA travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Hike in Red Rocks Amphitheatre during ideal visiting season
Image: 2003-11-30-16th Street Mall Lights.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly vibrant Denver experience, aim for late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October). During late spring, the city bursts with life as wildflowers paint the nearby foothills and the air is crisp for exploring outdoor cafes. As fall arrives, Denver dons a spectacular golden hue with crisp, clear days perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant energy of downtown festivals under stunning sunsets. While summer offers warm sunshine and outdoor adventures, and winter brings a cozy charm with snow-dusted peaks, these shoulder months provide a delightful balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing you to soak in the city's lively spirit.

Best Months to Visit:

AprMayJunSepOct

Airport Code

DEN

Coordinates

39.74°, -104.99°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Hike in Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre before the crowds descend. Hike the scenic trails surrounding the iconic venue and witness the sunrise paint the sandstone formations in fiery hues. It's a spiritual start to the day, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of profound peace.

Explore the RiNo Art District's Vibrant Murals

Wander through the River North Art District (RiNo) and discover an ever-evolving outdoor gallery of stunning street art. Look for hidden alleyways and lesser-known corners to find unique pieces by local and international artists. Consider a guided street art tour for deeper insights into the artists' stories and techniques.

Culinary Journey Through Avanti Food & Beverage

Indulge your taste buds at Avanti, a modern food hall housed in a shipping container village. Sample diverse cuisines from a rotating selection of local chefs, from gourmet burgers to authentic tacos. The rooftop patio offers fantastic city views, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or evening drinks.

Discover the Denver Botanic Gardens' Hidden Oases

Beyond the popular displays, seek out the quieter, specialized gardens within the Denver Botanic Gardens, such as the Japanese Garden or the Mordecai Children's Garden. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a chance to connect with nature in a tranquil setting. Visit during spring for the full bloom or autumn for stunning fall colors.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

packing

Denver's weather is famously unpredictable, even in summer! Pack layers, layers, layers. Think t-shirts, a fleece or hoodie, and a waterproof/windproof jacket. You might start your day with a chill in the morning air and end it with a warm afternoon sun, or even a sudden thunderstorm.

transport

While Denver is spread out, the 16th Street MallRide is your free ticket to exploring downtown. Hop on this electric shuttle that runs up and down the pedestrian mall – it's perfect for getting between attractions like the Denver Art Museum and Union Station without spending a dime on taxis or ride-shares.

money

Take advantage of Denver's happy hours, especially for craft beer! Many breweries and bars offer fantastic deals on pints and appetizers in the late afternoon. Check out apps like 'Happy Hour Finder' or simply look up your favorite brewery's website – you can often snag a local brew for a few dollars less.

culture

Embrace the 'Colorado casual' vibe. Denverites are generally laid-back, so don't feel the need to overdress, even for nice restaurants. Think comfortable jeans, boots, or sneakers – you'll fit right in whether you're exploring a museum or enjoying a patio lunch.

food

Don't leave Denver without trying some green chili! This hearty, spicy stew is a local favorite, often served over burritos, burgers, or even just with a side of tortillas. Head to a classic spot like Chubby's or Santiago's for an authentic taste.

safety

Be aware of the altitude! Denver is the 'Mile High City' for a reason. Drink plenty of water (more than you think you need) and go easy on the alcohol for your first day or two to avoid altitude sickness. You'll feel much better and can enjoy exploring without feeling sluggish.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
4 days
Feb
5 days
Mar
6 days
Apr
7 days
May
8 days
Jun
7 days
Jul
7 days
Aug
6 days
Sep
5 days
Oct
5 days
Nov
4 days
Dec
4 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan7°C-7°C45°F19°F13mm
4 days
9.8h
Feb9°C-5°C48°F23°F15mm
5 days
10.7h
Mar14°C-1°C57°F30°F25mm
6 days
11.9h
Apr17°C3°C63°F37°F30mm
7 days
13.1h
May22°C8°C72°F46°F46mm
8 days
14.2h
Jun27°C12°C81°F54°F41mm
7 days
14.9h
Jul30°C15°C86°F59°F43mm
7 days
14.7h
Aug29°C14°C84°F57°F33mm
6 days
13.9h
Sep25°C10°C77°F50°F25mm
5 days
12.6h
Oct18°C3°C64°F37°F23mm
5 days
11.4h
Nov11°C-3°C52°F27°F18mm
4 days
10.2h
Dec7°C-7°C45°F19°F13mm
4 days
9.5h

Denver, USA Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Denver, USA? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Denver, USA

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

4 days rainy days • 13mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Feb in Denver, USA

Weather

9°C°C / 48°F°F

5 days rainy days • 15mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Mar in Denver, USA

Weather

14°C°C / 57°F°F

6 days rainy days • 25mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Apr in Denver, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

17°C°C / 63°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

May in Denver, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

22°C°C / 72°F°F

8 days rainy days • 46mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Denver, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

7 days rainy days • 41mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Denver, USA

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

7 days rainy days • 43mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Aug in Denver, USA

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

6 days rainy days • 33mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Sep in Denver, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

5 days rainy days • 25mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Denver, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

5 days rainy days • 23mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Denver, USA

Weather

11°C°C / 52°F°F

4 days rainy days • 18mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Dec in Denver, USA

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

4 days rainy days • 13mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

All Things to Do in Denver, USA

Sunrise Hike in Red Rocks Amphitheatre

nature

Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre before the crowds descend. Hike the scenic trails surrounding the iconic venue and witness the sunrise paint the sandstone formations in fiery hues. It's a spiritual start to the day, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of profound peace.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Explore the RiNo Art District's Vibrant Murals

cultural

Wander through the River North Art District (RiNo) and discover an ever-evolving outdoor gallery of stunning street art. Look for hidden alleyways and lesser-known corners to find unique pieces by local and international artists. Consider a guided street art tour for deeper insights into the artists' stories and techniques.

Culinary Journey Through Avanti Food & Beverage

food

Indulge your taste buds at Avanti, a modern food hall housed in a shipping container village. Sample diverse cuisines from a rotating selection of local chefs, from gourmet burgers to authentic tacos. The rooftop patio offers fantastic city views, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or evening drinks.

Discover the Denver Botanic Gardens' Hidden Oases

nature

Beyond the popular displays, seek out the quieter, specialized gardens within the Denver Botanic Gardens, such as the Japanese Garden or the Mordecai Children's Garden. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a chance to connect with nature in a tranquil setting. Visit during spring for the full bloom or autumn for stunning fall colors.

Best time: May-Oct

Catch a Show at the Historic Paramount Theatre

activity

Step back in time at the beautifully restored Paramount Theatre, a Denver landmark known for its opulent Art Deco interior. Catch a touring Broadway show, a concert, or a classic film screening for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. The intricate details and grandeur of the theatre itself are a spectacle.

Browse Independent Boutiques on South Broadway

shopping

Escape the mall crowds and explore the eclectic shops along South Broadway, affectionately known as 'SoBo'. You'll find everything from vintage clothing and quirky collectibles to artisan crafts and unique home decor. It's the perfect place to hunt for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and support local businesses.

Late-Night Jazz at Dazzle Denver

activity

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of live jazz at Dazzle Denver, a renowned venue that attracts both local talent and international artists. Enjoy a craft cocktail or a late-night bite while soaking in the intimate atmosphere and exceptional music. It's a quintessential Denver nightlife experience for music lovers.

Explore the Clyfford Still Museum's Abstract World

cultural

Delve into the powerful and often challenging works of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still at his dedicated museum. The architecture of the building is as striking as the art, designed to complement the artist's vision. Go on a weekday morning for a more contemplative experience with the art.

Planning your Denver, USA adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Denver, USA

RTD Light Rail and Bus System

Denver's Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers extensive light rail and bus routes connecting the city and surrounding suburbs, including Denver International Airport (DIA). It's a reliable way to get around without a car, especially for reaching downtown attractions and neighborhoods like LoDo or Capitol Hill.

Cost:$3.00 for a 3-hour pass, $6.00 for a day pass. Monthly passes are also available.
Tip:Download the 'Transit' app or use the RTD website for real-time schedules and route planning. A common mistake is not checking the schedule for weekend or late-night service, which can be less frequent. Always have exact change or a pre-loaded RTD card, as drivers often cannot make change. Be aware that light rail trains can get crowded during rush hour, so allow extra time.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Denver and are a convenient option for door-to-door service, especially when traveling with luggage or in areas less served by public transit. They are particularly useful for getting to and from Denver International Airport (DIA) if you prefer not to use the A-Line train.

Cost:Varies by time of day, distance, and demand. Expect to pay $20-$50 for rides within the city, and $40-$70 for airport trips.
Tip:Check surge pricing before booking, especially during peak hours or major events. The 'Lyft Pink' or 'Uber One' subscriptions can offer discounts if you plan to use these services frequently. A common pitfall is not confirming the license plate and driver name before getting into the car – always double-check in the app.

Denver B-cycle Bike Share

Denver B-cycle offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city's downtown core and many of its neighborhoods. With numerous docking stations, it's ideal for short trips between attractions or for covering distances too far to walk but too short for public transit.

Cost:$5 for a single ride (up to 30 minutes), $25 for a 24-hour pass, $50 for a 3-day pass. Annual memberships are also available.
Tip:Download the B-cycle app to locate stations and unlock bikes. Ensure the bike is properly docked to end your ride and avoid extra charges. A common mistake is not checking the bike for tire pressure or brake functionality before leaving the station. Be mindful of bike lanes and pedestrian traffic; Denver drivers are generally accustomed to cyclists, but vigilance is key.

Rental Cars

Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore areas outside of Denver, such as the Rocky Mountains or nearby towns like Boulder. Rental agencies are readily available at Denver International Airport (DIA) and in various city locations.

Cost:Varies widely based on car type, rental duration, and agency. Expect $40-$100+ per day.
Tip:Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be aware of Denver's parking situation; street parking can be challenging and expensive in downtown areas, and many hotels charge for parking. Consider the altitude when driving – your car may perform slightly differently. If you're only staying in the city, a car might be more of a hassle than a help due to traffic and parking costs.

Walking

Denver's downtown area, including LoDo, the 16th Street Mall, and the Capitol Hill neighborhood, is very walkable. It's the best way to soak in the city's atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and enjoy attractions like Union Station, breweries, and parks.

Cost:Free!
Tip:Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. The 16th Street Mall shuttle (free) can help you cover longer distances along this popular pedestrian mall. Be aware of the altitude; take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated. Denver is generally a safe city, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Denver if I want to catch both great weather and fewer crowds?

Honestly, my sweet spot for Denver is late September into October. The summer heat has mellowed, the leaves in the foothills are starting to turn brilliant shades of gold and red, and the major summer tourist rush has subsided. You'll still get plenty of sunshine for exploring, but you won't be battling quite as many people at popular spots like Red Rocks or the Denver Botanic Gardens.

I'm flying into Denver International Airport (DIA). What's the smartest way to get downtown without a car?

Forget expensive taxis or ride-shares if you can! The RTD A-Line train is your best friend here; it's a direct, comfortable, and super affordable ride straight from DIA to Union Station in the heart of downtown. It runs frequently, and it's a fantastic way to start your trip without the stress of Denver traffic.

Besides the usual suspects like breweries and museums, what's a truly 'Denver' experience I shouldn't miss?

You absolutely must explore the RiNo (River North) Art District. It's an explosion of vibrant street art, independent galleries, and unique boutiques housed in former industrial buildings. Grab a coffee, wander the alleys, and just soak in the creative energy – it feels like the pulse of the city's modern culture.

I've heard Denver is at high altitude. What's the real deal with that, and how can I avoid feeling sick?

It's no joke! Denver is the 'Mile High City' for a reason, and the altitude can sneak up on you. My top tip is to drink way more water than you think you need, especially on your first day, and go easy on the alcohol. You'll acclimate faster, and you can still enjoy those amazing craft beers without a pounding headache.

Are there any local Denver traditions or unspoken rules I should be aware of?

One thing I always notice is how friendly people are, but also how much they value their personal space, especially when hiking or enjoying outdoor activities. Don't be afraid to say hello, but also be mindful of giving fellow hikers plenty of room on the trails. And if you're heading into the mountains, always check the weather – it can change dramatically and quickly!

I'm looking for a great day trip from Denver that isn't the typical Rocky Mountain National Park. Any ideas?

For a fantastic, less-crowded day trip, head to Golden. It's a charming historic town nestled at the base of the foothills, home to the Coors Brewery (if that's your thing) but also the stunning Clear Creek Canyon for hiking and biking. You can also visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for a dose of Wild West history.

How many days do you need in Denver, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Denver, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Denver, USA expensive to visit?

Denver, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Apr and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Denver, USA famous for?

Denver, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Apr or May for the best experience.

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