When fall hits, we feel it in the evenings first. Sometimes the leave change in the city last and only reveal their gorgeous color for a moment. Other years it feels like fall lasts forever and the weather just sits in that wonderful place between hot and cold. You can wear pants and T-shirts, occasional light layers and still rock some sandals. In a state with so much sunshine, no matter what fall you get, it is great.
While Colorado offers a variety of activities, including enjoying fall colors in Estes Park, Golden Gate Canyon or the historic Georgetown Loop Train, visiting LOCAL attractions is where it at if you want to avoid traffic and connect with your community. I know our weekends are packed with school activities, birthdays and sporting events (big and small). We still want to experience fall however we can. Denver Botanic Gardens and the Denver Zoo are solid outdoor options. Attending festivals such as the Denver Oktoberfest, exploring the RiNo Art District, and enjoying seasonal events like the Denver Oktoberfest are easy an yes. Denver Broncos games and family bike rides are also a huge hit in our family (owning Colorado eBike tours, I guess that makes sense). Did we mention that Colorado eBike Tours offers daily guided rides, year round (weather dependent). We do (book online)! It is family friendly and surprisingly more doable for all.
Want some more ideas? Here you go.
Outdoor Adventures & Fall Foliage
- Take a scenic drive or hike: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park or Golden Gate Canyon State Park for stunning fall colors and outdoor recreation. Do so on a weekend and prepare some snacks and a good block of time, many Coloradans enjoy this same treck.
- Explore Kenosha Pass: Hike through groves of aspen trees for one of the best fall color experiences near Denver.
- Ride the Georgetown Loop Train: Enjoy a historic narrow gauge railroad trip through the changing aspen leaves.
Festivals & Events
- Denver Oktoberfest: Experience a multi-weekend festival in downtown Denver with activities like keg bowling, stein hoisting, and live music.
- Pumpkin Patches: Your best bet is going to be a drive from the city. Visit farms like Anderson Farms or Adam’s Apple Orchard for pumpkin patches, hay rides, and other fall fun.
- Halloween Events: Check out Fright Fest at Elitch Gardens or the 13th Floor Haunted House for some spooky seasonal scares. It is not always geared for all ages, though they might try and tell you it is.
Arts & Culture
- RiNo Art District: Explore the vibrant murals and breweries in the River North Art District.
- Denver Botanic Gardens: Wander through the beautiful gardens, which often have fall-themed exhibits.
- Meow Wolf Denver: Immerse yourself in a unique interactive art experience at Convergence Station.
Sports & Entertainment
- Catch a game: Denver’s professional sports teams, including the Broncos, Nuggets, Avalanche, Rapids and Rockies, offer high-energy matches during the fall season. With the baseball team struggling to get off the bottom of the charts, those might be your easiest tickets to grab last minute.
- Red Rocks Amphitheater: Catch a world-renowned musical act at this iconic open-air venue nestled in natural red sandstone formations. Look at the Mission Ballroom for a Denver, world class venue with incredible seating options and restaurants alll around. The Ogden and Fillmore are also worth a look, you nenver know who is coming through.
- Attend a performance at the Denver Performing Arts Complex: Enjoy Broadway shows, ballet, and local theater. Look at the Arvada Center if you are looking for a nearby, small venue with great, often more affordable, options.
- Comedy Works is our preferred deviation from sports, arts and music. We are luck to have many great entertainers come to Denver.
What is the weather like in Denver in the fall?
- Denver’s fall weather is generally mild, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 19°C) and lows in the upper 30s°F (around 3°C).
- Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
- While sunny, the season can bring an occasional early snowfall.
What should I pack for a fall trip to Denver?
- Dress in layers.
- Bring a variety of clothing, including:
- Breathable base layers
- A warm fleece or sweater
- A light, insulated, or rain jacket
- A hat and gloves, as temperatures can drop significantly.
- It’s a good idea to check the forecast just before you leave, as weather c