City Guides

11 Best Indoor Activities in Denver to Experience in 2024

Published on Jun 6th 2024
indoor activities in Denver

When winter or fall arrives, indoor activities in Denver become a must. Known as the “Mile High City”, Denver is known for its impressive rocky mountain background, vibrant cultural scene and endless activities to do for visitors and locals alike. 

While outdoor enthusiasts love engaging in experiences like biking through mountain trails, hiking or skiing, weather can sometimes make these activities challenging. Here’s when indoor activities in Denver come to save the day. 

If you’re looking for indoor activities in Denver this weekend, whether to seek refuge due to climate or you're looking for fun new experience, you're in the right place. This guide provides 11 unique indoor experiences to immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic spirit. 

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Best Indoor Activities in Denver for Adults

1. Explore Cooking Classes

How do you spend a rainy day in Denver? While there are many great options, cooking classes in Denver offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Regardless of your skills or cooking experience, with the guidance of a five-star chef, you’ll learn how to make exquisite meals from scratch. 

This is among the indoor activities in Denver for adults that are great for those looking to engage in a new hobby or at least give it a try. From food prep to plating and learning expert techniques, these classes offer a premium culinary experience. 

cooking classes indoor activity in denver
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2. Join a Paint and Sip Session

Fun activities in Denver for adults that can be done regardless of the weather are paint and sip sessions. Paint and sip in Denver allow you to unwind in a relaxed environment as you enjoy your favorite drinks while channeling your inner artist.

This activity is also perfect for those seeking date ideas in Denver that go beyond the typical dinner date. You get to make new memories and have meaningful conversations as you paint and transform a white canvas into your own artistic piece. 

3. Go to a Photography Class

Have you ever wanted to give photography a try? If so, this is your sign to book photography classes in Denver. Whether you’re looking for indoor activities in Denver this weekend or simply looking for a different activity, photography is a great idea.

Even if you have zero skills, you get to experiment with lighting, angles and more. Discover the art of capturing moments and turning them into timeless pieces.

Plus, photography classes make excellent group activities for adults and friends looking to embark on new experiences together

4. Try Exquisite Wines

What does downtown Denver have to offer? If you’re looking for indoor date ideas in the city, a classic that never fails is going for wine and cheese. La Bouche offers a French-American experience with an extensive wine menu.

It also offers an elevated menu perfect for those who enjoy fine dining. Union Lodge No.1 and 54thirty rooftop are other ideal indoor activities in Denver for adults looking for a relaxed yet elegant environment. 

Fun Indoor Activities in Denver for Kids

5. Visit Downtown Aquarium

One of the best indoor activities to do in Denver with kids is visiting the Downtown Aquarium. Blending family fun with amazing marine life, the Aquarium Adventure exhibit has more than 1 million gallons of extraordinary exhibits.

Besides being ideal for those seeking winter activities, during the aquarium, your kids can explore its unique experiences, like enjoying mermaid shows or for kids 8+ diving into the shark cage.

aquarium indoor activities in denver for kids
via Canva

6. Have a Dancing Adventure

Finding indoor things to do in Denver with toddlers can be challenging, especially if your little ones can’t stay still for more than a minute. However, dance classes in Denver come to the rescue.

During these classes, your kids can explore a variety of rhythms, from ballet to hip-hop, as talented instructor adapts to their skill levels. 

7. Learn Everything About Butterflies

Is there anything interesting in Denver? For those needing indoor things to do in Denver with toddlers that go beyond the traditional activities, visiting the Butterfly Pavilion is a great idea.

You and your kids will learn more about butterflies through their interactive exhibits that provide insight into the life cycle of butterflies, their importance to ecosystems and conservation efforts to protect these delicate creatures.

You’ll get up close and personal with various invertebrates as knowledge staff members share interesting facts and stories.

8. Test Your Skills at Indoor Mini Golf in Denver

What are some indoor activities in Denver for kids that are also perfect for adults? Mini golf is the perfect one. There are many different options to play Indoor mini-golf in Denver, and a popular one is Holey Moley.

Forget about the traditional pirate-themed courses; these ones are a unique experience with themes going from shark-infested waters to pop culture.

Free Indoor Activities in Denver

9. Visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College

If you’re looking for indoor activities in Colorado Springs, you should visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The FAC Museum galleries are free during the second Saturday and third Friday of each month.

You can explore its diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and more. The center showcases rotating exhibitions that showcase both contemporary and historical work.

couple viewing art in gallery
via Canva

10.  Explore the Boulder Public Library

Indoor activities in Boulder that are completely free include visiting its Public Library. Visitors can explore its vast collection of books and other materials including DVDs, CDs, magazines and newspapers.

You can also explore the library’s MakerSpace, where you can experiment with woodworking, 3D printing and more. There are also activities for kids, like storytime sessions and a dedicated area filled with toys.

11.  Learn More About the Colorado State Capitol 

Finding indoor activities in Denver for free can involve having an enriching and informative afternoon. For example, the Colorado State Capitol offers free tours where you get to learn more about the state’s history, government and architecture.

The tours provide insight into Colorado’s legislative process and notable landmarks like the gold-domed Capitol building. These can also be among the fall activities ideal for those interested in history. 

Whether you're a tourist seeking to maximize your visit beyond going to the classic Denver spots or looking for Colorado gifts for souvenirs, or a local eager to explore new experiences during bad weather days, there's something for everyone.

Engage in enriching experiences like indoor mini golf or go on a tour of the State Capitol to gain insight into Colorado's history and culture. With endless options available, both visitors and locals alike can discover unique ways to make the most of their time in the Mile High City.

For even more fun things to do in Denver, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!