Where to Stay in Denver
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Capitol Hill
Provides more affordable accommodation options like hostels and budget hotels, alongside diverse and inexpensive eateries.
See full Denver neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Denver
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Capitol Hill
Eclectic mix of historic mansions, colorful bungalows, and a diverse, bohemian population.
Our top picks in Capitol Hill
RiNo (River North Art District)
Vibrant street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries in a formerly industrial area.
Our top picks in RiNo (River North Art District)
Focuses on local art, offering a unique aesthetic experience.
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LoDo (Lower Downtown)
Historic brick buildings meet modern sports arenas and lively bars.
Our top picks in LoDo (Lower Downtown)
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Capitol Hill | Budget | Eclectic mix of historic mansions, colorful bungalows, and a diverse, bohemian population. | culturebudget |
LoDo (Lower Downtown) | Luxury | Historic brick buildings meet modern sports arenas and lively bars. | first-timersnightlife |
RiNo (River North Art District) | Mid-range | Vibrant street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries in a formerly industrial area. | foodiesnightlife |
Uptown | Luxury | Upscale residential streets lined with sophisticated restaurants and bars, adjacent to downtown. | couplesfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Denver
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Denver
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Denver. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Denver
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Denver
Capitol Hill
BudgetEclectic mix of historic mansions, colorful bungalows, and a diverse, bohemian population.
- +More affordable accommodation and dining options
- +Close proximity to cultural institutions and parks
- +Diverse and lively atmosphere
- -Can be noisy due to traffic and nightlife on Colfax
- -Parking can be challenging
- -Some blocks have visible homelessness
LoDo (Lower Downtown)
LuxuryHistoric brick buildings meet modern sports arenas and lively bars.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options
- +Historic charm with modern amenities
- -Can be noisy and crowded, especially on game days
- -Pricier than other areas
RiNo (River North Art District)
Mid-rangeVibrant street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries in a formerly industrial area.
- +Incredible street art scene
- +Concentration of breweries and unique bars
- +Independent and creative atmosphere
- -Can feel spread out with significant walking between points of interest
- -Development is rapidly changing the character
Uptown
LuxuryUpscale residential streets lined with sophisticated restaurants and bars, adjacent to downtown.
- +Excellent dining and cocktail scene
- +Elegant and quieter atmosphere than LoDo
- +Close to City Park and museums
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited public transport options within the neighborhood itself
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 90/day
Hidden Gems in Denver
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Tuyet Nga
This no-frills Vietnamese spot is a local favorite for its authentic pho and banh mi. It's unassuming from the outside but consistently delivers delicious and affordable meals.
RiNo Art District Murals
FREEWander through the streets of the River North Art District to discover a vibrant outdoor gallery of ever-changing murals and street art. It's a fantastic way to experience Denver's creative spirit for free.
Avanti Food & Beverage
A modern food hall with multiple local eateries and a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the downtown skyline. It's a popular spot for locals to grab a bite and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Denver
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Denver Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Denver on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Denver Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Denver with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Denver: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Denver's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Denver: Scenic Excursion
Escape Denver for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Denver Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Denver's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Denver
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