Denver travel tips: what to know before you go

Things to know

1. Drink plenty of water and go easy on alcohol and exertion for your first day at altitude.
2. On trails, yield to uphill hikers and pack out all rubbish.
3. Cannabis use in public, in parks and in most hotels is illegal; check hotel policies.
4. Tip at sit-down restaurants, bars and brewery taprooms with table service.
5. On Broncos game days, expect orange jerseys everywhere and busy bars from early on.
6. Book Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre ahead: Concert tickets sell out quickly for popular shows; buy from the official site.
7. Book Meow Wolf Convergence Station ahead: Timed tickets often sell out at weekends; book online in advance.
8. Red Rocks (outside concert times), the Capitol tour, Union Station, Larimer Square and many parks are free.

Tipping

Tipping is expected: about 18–22% at sit-down restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, 15–20% for taxis and rideshares.

Language

English and Spanish are spoken.

What to wear

Casual everywhere. Pack layers, a warm jacket outside summer, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen; the sun is strong at altitude and temperatures swing widely between day and night.

Practical details

Plugs and voltage

Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz

Drinking water

Tap water is safe to drink; carry a bottle and drink more than usual at altitude.

Emergency number

911 (police, fire, ambulance)

Phone and internet

US SIM cards and eSIMs are easy to buy; mobile coverage can be patchy in mountain valleys and national parks.

Time zone

America/Denver

Altitude sickness, dehydration and sunburn are common for new arrivals, so drink water and limit alcohol on the first day. In the mountains, afternoon thunderstorms bring lightning risk above the treeline, so start hikes early. Car break-ins happen at trailheads and downtown lots.

Plan the trip

Denver travel guide · When to go · Costs.

Questions travellers ask