Events Actually Cool Things You Can (Still) Do in Denver Right Now All social distancing approved.

Exploring Denver looks a little different these days. Masks are required in public indoor spaces and lots of precautions are being taken when it comes to making social distancing easy. But the good news is that many go-to destinations and activities are back open, you’re living in a place where the sunshine is as plentiful as the Rocky Mountain views, and good times are waiting around every corner. All you need is this list, which covers the essential Denver things to do in these strange new times along with some hidden gems along the way.

Get the hell out of town for a day trip $-$$

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As much as there is to do in Denver itself, escaping to the Rockies is one of the best ways to spend your time and options for day trips are plentiful. One five hour loop that packs in all the Colorado essentials (and offers gorgeous views of the changing aspens if you can catch them) starts with a trek out of town on I-70 to Winter Park for a glimpse of ski town life. Then head north toward Grand Lake and the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park -- just be sure to make a reservation ahead of time. Pay the $25 fee for a one-car day pass and head above timberline on Trail Ridge Road for classic high altitude views before making your way into Estes Park and back through Boulder to Denver.

Go do anything at Red Rocks Free-$$$

Morrison

Yes, what you’ve heard is true: It’s the best place to see music in the known galaxy. But, it’s also not hosting many events right now. But even if you can’t catch a live show (or drive-in movie), this iconic landmark is totally worth the visit for the view alone. There are also hiking trails where you can explore these sandstone formations beyond the stage. Take a dip at Indian Hot Springs $

Idaho Springs

A quick 30-minute drive from town, this small mountain town is the closest spot to enjoy a nice long soak in the waters from a natural hot spring -- which feel especially amazing on a cool fall day. Reservations for an hour-long session are available for $18 on weekdays and $20 on the weekend. If you score one, you’ll enter the jungle-like dome where a pool with an average temperature of 90 to 100 awaits. And when you’re done, you can make a pit stop at Tommyknocker Brewery for beer and a bite before heading back to town. Hit up a historic hotel bar $-$$

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There’s no doubt that the pair of marine-themed bars inside Denver’s two most historic hotels are worth checking out. At The Oxford Hotel, the Cruise Room’s Prohibition-era red hue and handcrafted cocktails are a cornerstone of Denver’s drinking culture. So it goes at The Brown Palace with Ship Tavern and all of its model boats (and if you fancy a cigar, head down the hallway to the Churchill afterward). But, we’d like to add another must-stop to the list: Charlie Brown’s, a piano bar with solid food, a two-for-one happy hour, and a patio where you can still light up (tobacco, that is). Bonus: All three of these joints are open on most holidays, so you can get your fix while you hide from your family.

Sip afternoon tea at the Brown Palace $$-$$$

Central Business District

This downtown icon is over 125 years old and a traditional afternoon tea here is still one of the classiest experiences you can have in Denver. You will need to book ahead, but it’s the perfect excuse to get dressed up in a town where jeans are typically considered acceptable for almost any occasion, and options range from a $40/person tea, scones, and finger sandwich-filled experience to the $250 option for four that includes a bottle of Moët. Masks are required when not seated at your table. Try Rocky Mountain oysters at Denver's oldest restaurant $-$$

Lincoln Park

The Buckhorn Exchange is a classic steakhouse that’s been serving up bovine in town since 1893. Inside, you’ll find 575 pieces of taxidermy along with a whole lot of stories to be told from a history filled with presidential visits and frontier legends. And yes, they do serve the infamous “oysters,” breaded, fried, and served with a horseradish dipping sauce that briefly makes you forget what you’re actually eating. They’re open for dine in, though reservations are your best bet, and their most infamous dish is on the to-go menu as well. See the latest exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art $

Union Station

The Denver Art Museum and Clyfford Still Museum may be better known (and are definitely worth your time), but this small yet mighty option is a must for any art lover. No need to be an art lover to have a good time here. The exhibits change regularly and feature a mix of local and national talent and never shy away from the controversial (you’ll see some conversation starters for sure). And if you need a break, you can grab a drink at the rooftop bar. Plus Colorado residents get in for just a penny on the first Saturday of every month.

Explore our amazing street art scene Free

RiNo and the Santa Fe Arts District

Over the past few years, Denver’s streets have become a whole lot more colorful thanks to a slew of new works by street artists, especially in these two neighborhoods. All you need is some free time to wander to find eye-catching examples painted everywhere from alleys and underpasses to the outsides of prominent businesses. If you’re looking for a socially distant friendly outdoor activity, these two districts are like open-air museums for modern art, just waiting to be (safely) explored. Hop on an e-scooter $

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Before we had bigger things to deal with, many lamented the scourge of the Limes and Birds and other brands of rechargeable, shared scooters on Denver’s sidewalks. But after initially pulling their fleet from the city amid the stay-at-home order, they’re back and they offer a fun way to make your next essential business run. Skip the car and get some fresh air and a dose of excitement next time you’ve got an errand to run. It definitely makes going to the grocery store feel more adventurous.

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Molly Martin is a freelance writer in Denver, Colorado who is always on the lookout for fun things to do. Follow her Mile High adventures @mollydbu on Twitter and Instagram