Things to Do in Denver

The 2025 UPCEA Annual Conference is being held March 24-26, 2025 at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel in Denver, CO. Be sure to build a little extra time into your trip so that you can go after the day's sessions and enjoy the area.

Tourist Sights

Denver Union Station: Explore this historic transportation hub turned urban hotspot, featuring restaurants, shops, and a lively atmosphere.
Denver Zine Library: Dive into the world of independent publishing at this unique library showcasing zines, small press publications, and DIY culture.
Fifty-Two 80’s: This modern antique shop is a museum of 1980s pop culture remembered in toys, clothes, and memorabilia.
H.R. Meininger Co.: Unleash your creativity at this 7,000-square-foot art supply store offering a vast selection of materials for artists of all levels, originally opened in 1881.
Larimer Square: Stroll down Denver's most historic block, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues amidst beautiful Victorian architecture.
Mile High Comics: Get lost in a world of comic book paradise at one of the largest comic book stores in the country, boasting a vast selection of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles.
16th Street Mall: Shop, dine, and people-watch along this bustling pedestrian promenade in downtown Denver, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
United States Mint at Denver: Learn the rich history of the United States Mint and how they produce billions of coins each year for the American public with a free, guided tour of the Denver facility. Tours are limited and in high demand. Tickets must be secured from the Mint’s information window early on the same day of the tour.

Museums

Clyfford Still Museum: Immerse yourself in the abstract expressionist art of Clyfford Still, housed in a striking modern building designed to showcase his groundbreaking works.
Colorado Railroad Museum: Step aboard vintage trains and explore railroad history through exhibits, artifacts, and scenic train rides at this expansive museum dedicated to Colorado's railway heritage.
Denver Art Museum: Immerse yourself in art from around the world at this renowned museum with more than 70,000 works of art in 12 collections, including Latin American Art, Textile Art and Fashion, Indigenous Arts of North America, and Western American Art.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Embark on a journey of discovery through exhibits on dinosaurs, space, wildlife, and more at this family-friendly museum offering interactive learning experiences for all ages.
Dikeou Collection: Contemporary art collection which is free and open to the public, by appointment. Operating as an extension of New York publication zingmagazine, the Dikeou Collection features work of approximately 30 international artists.
Forney Museum of Transportation: Delve into the history of transportation with a vast collection of vintage cars, trains, planes, and other vehicles showcased in a historic warehouse setting.
History Colorado Center: Dive into the rich history of Colorado through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the state's past to life in engaging and interactive ways.
Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art: The three collections are all shown together in salon style with over 4,000 works on view of: international decorative art collection from the 1870s to the present; a Colorado & regional art collection from 1845 to the present; a retrospective of Colorado’s distinguished painter, Vance Kirkland (1904–1981).
Meow Wolf Denver: Explore a surreal, interactive art experience featuring immersive installations, mind-bending landscapes, and hidden passages, where every corner invites exploration and wonder.
Molly Brown House Museum: Step back in time at the former home of Titanic survivor Margaret "Molly" Brown, now a museum showcasing Victorian-era artifacts and exhibits.
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver: MCA Denver is the city’s creative center of gravity, sparking connections and curiosity through contemporary art and culture.
Colorado State Capitol: Take a guided tour of this iconic building, rich with Colorado history, and enjoy stunning panoramic views from the dome of nearby red rock formations and city landmarks on clear days. (Advance tour reservations strongly recommended.)

The Great Outdoors

City Park: Escape the urban hustle and bustle in this expansive green space featuring lakes, gardens, playgrounds, and the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science nearby.
Confluence Park: Discover where Denver's two major rivers, the South Platte and Cherry Creek, converge in this urban park offering scenic views, walking trails, and recreational activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Denver Botanic Gardens: Experience the beauty of nature at these lush gardens featuring diverse plant collections, serene water features, and seasonal exhibits.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Take a scenic hike or attend a concert at this iconic outdoor venue surrounded by stunning red rock formations.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Drive out to this breathtaking national park and marvel at the majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, and scenic hiking trails amidst the lingering snow of late winter.
Washington Park: Relax and unwind in this picturesque park known for its lush flower gardens, tranquil lakes, jogging paths, and recreational facilities.
Area Campuses: Explore the vibrant campuses of the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Community College of Denver, and Community College of Aurora to experience the dynamic educational scene and campus culture in the Denver area.

Food and Drink

Apple Blossom: Delight in seasonal and locally sourced cuisine with a modern twist, served in a cozy and elegant setting.
Buckhorn Exchange: Experience a piece of Wild West history at Denver's oldest restaurant, known for its taxidermy-filled decor and exotic meat dishes.
ChoLon - Downtown: Experience innovative and upscale Asian fusion cuisine inspired by Chef Lon Symensma's travels throughout Southeast Asia, served in a stylish and contemporary atmosphere.
Citizen Rail: Indulge in wood-fired steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails in a chic and lively ambiance at this modern American restaurant located in Denver's Union Station.
French 75: Transport yourself to Paris with classic French cuisine and exquisite cocktails served in an intimate and sophisticated brasserie setting.
Linger Eatuary: Indulge in eclectic eats and rooftop views at this trendy restaurant housed in a former mortuary, offering a unique dining experience in Denver's LoHi neighborhood.
My Brother’s Bar: Step into Denver's oldest bar, established in 1873, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere, delicious burgers, and a rich history that includes famous literary patrons like Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady.
Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar: Indulge in Southern-inspired comfort food and cocktails in a cozy and charming atmosphere, reminiscent of the warmth and hospitality of New Orleans.
Panzano: Experience contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, served in an elegant and inviting setting in downtown Denver.
The Kitchen American Bistro: Enjoy farm-fresh, locally sourced dishes crafted with care and creativity, served in a warm and welcoming bistro setting.
Wynkoop Brewing Company: Savor handcrafted beers and pub fare at this historic brewery founded by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, known for its pioneering role in Denver's craft beer scene.

Sporting Events

Colorado Avalanche (ice hockey) - Tuesday, March 25 @ 7:00 PM vs. Detroit Red Wings - Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Denver Nuggets (basketball) - Monday, March 24 @ 7:00 PM vs. Chicago Bulls and Wednesday, March 26 @ 7:00 PM vs. Milwaukee Bucks - Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Colorado Rapids (soccer) - Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Commerce City, CO