The First-Timer’s Guide to Visiting Denver

Altitude, Weather, Getting Around & Essential Tips

Denver is one of the most unique cities in the U.S., blending outdoor adventure, vibrant urban culture, and world-class dining. All at 5,280 feet above sea level. Whether you’re visiting for a Red Rocks trip, a ski weekend, or your first time exploring the Mile High City, this guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth, memorable stay.

Understanding Denver’s Altitude

Denver sits exactly one mile above sea level, and first-time visitors often feel the difference.

What altitude does to your body:

• Faster dehydration
• Shortness of breath during activity
• Increased heart rate
• Mild headaches or fatigue

Altitude tips:

• Drink a LOT of water
• Limit alcohol your first night
• Avoid strenuous exercise on day one
• Bring lip balm + moisturizer (trust us!)
• Sleep well before your trip

Denver Weather: What to Expect

Denver has four distinct seasons, but weather changes quickly.

Season Overview:

• Winter: Sunny but cold, occasional snow
• Spring: Warm days + surprise snowstorms
• Summer: Hot, dry, great for outdoor activities
• Fall: Cool, golden leaves, ideal for hiking

What to pack:

• Layers (temps can swing 30° in one day!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses (300+ days of sunshine a year)
• Light jacket for evenings
• Moisturizer + lip balm

Getting Around Denver

Rideshare
Uber + Lyft are widely available.

Light Rail (RTD)
Connects you to:

• Downtown
• Denver Tech Center
• Airport (DIA)
• Lakewood, Englewood, Aurora, Littleton

Driving
Easy in suburbs, tighter downtown.

Walking/Biking
Walkable neighborhoods include:

• LoDo
• RiNo
• Highlands/LoHi
• Capitol Hill

Denver also has tons of bike lanes and scooters.

Dining: What First-Timers Should Know

In Denver, you can expect to find plenty of dining options, including:

• Authentic Mexican cuisine
• Green chile (absolute must, Colorado staple!)
• Farm-to-table dining
• Craft breweries
• Rooftop patios
• Modern food halls

Where to Stay in Denver

Best areas for first-time visitors:

• LoDo: walkable, nightlife, restaurants
• RiNo: art, murals, breweries
• Highlands/LoHi: views + trendy dining
• Lakewood: easiest for Red Rocks
• Sloan’s Lake: quiet + family-friendly

Browse SkyRun Denver rentals

Insider Tips

• Book early for Red Rocks weekends
• Stay hydrated
• Don’t plan a tough hike on day one
• Explore more than just downtown
• Stay in Denver & visit the mountains (better value + more to do)