Where to Stay in Denver
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Denver
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
🛡️ Generally safe with many people out and about, but some side streets can be deserted and poorly lit after dark.
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
🛡️ Generally safe due to high foot traffic, but be aware of your surroundings at night, especially after events.
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
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty crime and the visible homeless population, especially in areas closer to downtown and along Colfax at night.
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
🛡️ Very safe during the day and evening due to well-lit streets and upscale establishments, but standard big-city awareness applies at night.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 200/day
Hidden Gems in Denver
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Confluence Park
FREEWhere the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet, this urban park offers a great spot for people-watching, kayaking, and enjoying the city skyline. It's a lively hub for locals, especially during warmer months.
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
Located southwest of the city, this expansive natural area offers hiking trails, a historic farm, and beautiful native plant collections. It's a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.
Safety in Denver
SafeSolo Female Travel
Denver is generally safe for solo female travelers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables openly.
At Night
Most tourist areas like LoDo and Uptown are lively and well-lit. Exercise caution in less populated areas or those with a higher concentration of homeless individuals, particularly late at night. Public transport is generally safe but be mindful.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas like 16th Street Mall or public transit.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed street vendors.
- 3Fake charity collectors.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Denver