Denver is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, culture and recreation to offer visitors and locals alike. But if you’re looking for something more than the usual museums, parks and restaurants, you might want to check out some of the hidden gems and quirky spots that make Denver unique. Here are 10 offbeat experiences you can have in Denver.
Visit the International Church of Cannabis
If you’re curious about the spiritual side of cannabis, you might want to check out the International Church of Cannabis, a non-profit organization that welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds to celebrate the benefits of cannabis as a sacrament. The church is housed in a former Lutheran church that dates back to 1904, and features a stunning interior mural by Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel. You can join a guided tour, attend a meditation session, or just admire the colorful artwork.
Explore the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys
If you’re a fan of miniatures, dolls, and toys, you’ll love the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys, a hidden gem that showcases thousands of items from different eras and cultures. You’ll find everything from antique dollhouses and teddy bears to Japanese kimonos and Star Wars figurines. The museum also hosts workshops, events, and exhibits throughout the year.
Watch a movie at the Mayan Theatre
If you’re looking for a unique movie-going experience, you might want to watch a movie at the Mayan Theatre, one of the last remaining theatres in the country that was built in the Art Deco Mayan Revival style. The theatre opened in 1930 and features ornate carvings, sculptures, and murals inspired by Mayan culture. The theatre shows independent, foreign, and classic films, as well as live performances and special events.
Take a tour of the Molly Brown House Museum
If you’re interested in history, you might want to take a tour of the Molly Brown House Museum, the former home of Margaret “Molly” Brown, a socialite, philanthropist, and activist who survived the sinking of the Titanic. The museum preserves the Victorian-era home where Molly lived from 1894 to 1932, and displays artifacts and memorabilia from her life and times. You’ll learn about Molly’s role in women’s suffrage, labor rights, education, and humanitarian causes.
Enjoy a drink at Williams & Graham
If you’re looking for a speakeasy-style bar with a cozy atmosphere and an impressive cocktail menu, you might want to enjoy a drink at Williams & Graham, a hidden gem that was named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2018. To enter the bar, you have to go through a secret door disguised as a bookshelf in a bookstore. Once inside, you’ll find a dimly lit lounge with leather booths, wood paneling, and vintage decor. You can choose from a variety of classic and original cocktails, or ask the bartenders to create something custom for you.
Visit the Denver Cat Company
If you’re a cat lover, you might want to visit the Denver Cat Company, a cat cafe that lets you cuddle with adorable felines while enjoying coffee, tea, or snacks. The cafe is home to about 15 cats that are all adoptable through local rescue groups. You can also browse through books, art, and merchandise related to cats. The cafe hosts events such as yoga with cats, painting with cats, and trivia nights.
Explore the Dikeou Collection
If you’re into contemporary art, you might want to explore the Dikeou Collection, a private collection of art that is open to the public for free. The collection features works by over 30 artists from around the world, including installations, sculptures, paintings, photographs, videos, and drawings. The collection is located in two downtown spaces: a historic building that used to be a department store, and an office building that also serves as an art studio.
Take a ride on the Carousel of Happiness
If you’re looking for a whimsical and nostalgic experience, you might want to take a ride on the Carousel of Happiness, a restored carousel that dates back to 1910. The carousel features 56 hand-carved animals, including a dragon, a gorilla, a kangaroo, and a unicorn. The carousel is powered by a 1913 Wurlitzer band organ that plays music from the early 20th century. The carousel is located in Nederland, a mountain town about 45 minutes from Denver.
Visit the Denver Firefighters Museum
If you’re fascinated by firefighting, you might want to visit the Denver Firefighters Museum, a museum that showcases the history and culture of firefighting in Denver. The museum is housed in a former fire station that was built in 1909 and features exhibits, artifacts, and vehicles related to firefighting. You’ll learn about the challenges and dangers that firefighters face, as well as the equipment and techniques they use. You can also try on firefighter gear, slide down a fire pole, and operate a fire engine.
Enjoy a show at the Clocktower Cabaret
If you’re looking for a fun and entertaining night out, you might want to enjoy a show at the Clocktower Cabaret, a cabaret-style venue that hosts live performances of comedy, music, burlesque, drag, and more. The venue is located in the basement of the historic Daniels and Fisher Clock Tower, which was built in 1911 and is one of the landmarks of downtown Denver. You can enjoy a drink and a snack while watching a variety of shows that cater to different tastes and moods.
