So you’re planning a trip to Denver? Great choice! Denver is my favorite kind of city; a perfect mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.
Denver doesn’t get you with just any single thing, though. There’s a cumulative effect of a place that has somehow figured out how to be genuinely cosmopolitan without losing sight of the mountains literally visible from the end of almost every east-west street.
You can eat a tasting menu on Friday night that would hold its own in any major American city, wake up Saturday morning, and be standing at 12,000 feet by 10am. That particular combination isn’t easy to come by, and Denver has built an entire identity around it without it feeling forced.
What makes me particularly love Denver is how the outdoor culture doesn’t exist in spite of the urban one; they’re the same culture, embraced by the same people. The woman at the bar recommending a natural wine from the Rhône valley is the same person who summited a 14er before your flight landed. The chef sourcing hyper-local ingredients for his tasting menu goes backcountry skiing on his days off.
I’ve been to plenty of cities that are sophisticated, and plenty that are outdoorsy. Very few manage to be both simultaneously without one undermining the other. Denver effortlessly pulls it off.
Denver has it all: a lively nightlife, fascinating history, diverse culture, and some of the best craft breweries in the country.
With so many neighborhoods to choose from, deciding where to stay can be overwhelming. That’s why I put together a guide to the four best neighborhoods in Denver based on your travel interests. Whether you want to dance the night away, dive into Denver’s rich past, or save some cash, I’ve got you covered. From trendy hotspots to historic districts, we’ll find the perfect spot for your stay in Denver.
So, grab a pint of local brew and let me show you around the Mile High City. Here’s my guide on where to stay in Denver.
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Denver Neighborhood Guide | Places to Stay in Denver
Capitol Hill
Centrally located and packed with attractions, Capitol Hill is a great area to base yourself during a trip to Denver. It’s also where you’re most likely to find more budget-friendly options for accommodations and food.
River North Art District (RiNo)
The River North Art District in Denver is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city’s thriving arts scene. Located just north of downtown, this neighborhood is home to dozens of galleries, studios, and street art murals, making it one of the most vibrant and creative areas in the city.
Lower Downtown (LoDo)
LoDo is without a doubt the coolest neighbourhood in Denver. It is nestled between the South Platter River and the Central Business District and is just a short walk from downtown Denver. With it’s super central location and proximity to so many cool things, it’s also our pick for first-time visitors to the area.
Uptown/North Capitol Hill
One of the oldest residential districts in Denver, Uptown is a neighbourhood renowned for its historic architecture, charming shops and it’s quaint and relaxed vibe – making it the best area to stay in Denver for families.
4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in During Your Trip to Denver
Denver is a vibrant city that blends history with contemporary culture and just a touch of cowboy charm. I came here drawn by the Mile High air and the promise of big adventures, and I found a place where a cosmopolitan edge sits beside open trails and friendly faces.
Sitting at about 1,600 meters above sea level, Denver greets you with Rocky Mountain views and a schedule that never stops: neon nights in RiNo, sunlit strolls through Capitol Hill, and easy hops to Cherry Creek’s shops and trails.
The city sprawls across 78 neighborhoods, a mosaic that invites you to soak in at least a few different vibes, from Central Business District’s hustle, Lower Downtown’s grit, RiNo’s art-forward pulse, and Uptown’s tree-lined charm. It’s one of the fastest-growing places in the US, home to nearly three million people who chase outdoor life and urban food scenes with equal passion.
You’ll learn quickly that Denver rewards curiosity: budget-friendly stays, epic sunsets over the foothills, and countless stories waiting to be told along the way. Trying to figure out where to stay and get some ideas for what to do? I’ve got you.
1. Capitol Hill • Best Place to Stay in Denver for Budget Travelers
Capitol Hill is Denver’s most historically layered neighborhood, the one that has been through more identities than most cities manage in a lifetime and somehow kept all of them simultaneously.
It sits just southeast of downtown, anchored at one end by the gold-domed Colorado State Capitol building, which you will photograph even if you swore you weren’t going to be that person, and spreading outward into a dense residential grid of century-old mansions, converted apartment buildings, corner bodegas, and dive bars that have outlasted every trend that tried to replace them.
Within its streets, you’ll find some of the city’s most notable attractions, including the Colorado State Capitol building, the United States Mint and the Molly Brown House Museum. Architecture buffs will also love exploring Capitol Hill if only to peep the turn-of-the-century mansions that characterize the ‘hood.
But there’s more to Capitol Hill than history and old-time charm. This downtown district is also where you’ll find a great selection of restaurants and cafes, bars and clubs.
Very importantly, Capitol Hill is where the city’s two best hostels are located, along with plenty of budget-friendly food options and dive bars where you can have a great time without spending your savings on a drink. You can hit up the Denver Mint and the Colorado State Capital for free tours and then end your day with a tasty beer and live music at the Lion’s Lair on East Colfax Avenue. Arguably the best dive bar in Denver. (If you’re interested in other great Denver dive bar recommendations, just hit me up in the comments. I’ve got a ton)
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly area to stay in Denver, I suggest you take a look in Capitol Hill.
- Best For: Budget, History buffs, diverse dining, central access to multiple neighborhoods
- The Vibe: Historic, walkable core with a lively, eclectic energy
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (roughly 25–35 minutes to DEN by car or rideshare, longer by public transit)
- Transport Level: High (excellent bus routes and bikeable streets)
- Budget: Moderate (mix of budget-friendly spots and mid-range options)
- Crowds: Moderate to busy, especially on weekends
Top Things to Do in Capitol Hill
- Browse more than 70,000 works of art at the Denver Art Museum. They offer a hand-full of free days throughout the year.
- Dive deep into Denver’s history and government by visiting the Colorado State Capitol building. You can find more information about hours and free tours here.
- Take a leisurely stroll through lush and beautiful Civic Center Park.
- Marvel at the detail and decoration of Saint John’s Cathedral.
- Take a free tour of the Denver Mint. Reservations must be made online up to 30 days in advance. Insider tip: When I tried to book tickets online, I was amazed at how few tickets were left, unless you’re into taking a tour at 7:30am (not for me). An important note for families: visitors must be at least 7 years old.
- Stop and smell the roses at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
- Enjoy incredible cocktails at Hudson Hill bar.
- Learn about Denver’s spooky past on a Capitol Hill Ghost Tour.
- Grab a pint at the famous The Fainting Goat.
- Take a self-guided tour of Molly Brown’s home.
Ember Hostel | Best Hostel in Capitol Hill
The Ember Hostel is my pick for where to stay in Capitol Hill if you’re on a budget. Set at the heart of Capitol Hill, this hostel is a short walk from tourist attractions, bars, clubs, restaurants and more. It has a fun and social atmosphere, a spa Jacuzzi and a fire pit.
Located in a historic mansion, the hostel boasts that you will enjoy the “swankiest retro hostel experience” of your life.
11th Avenue Hostel | Best Family-Friendly Hostel in Capitol Hill
Run by a family of travellers, the 11th Avenue Hostel is a great option for first-time visitors on a budget. It is clean, safe and conveniently located at the heart of Capitol Hill with plenty of restaurants, attractions and landmarks nearby.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, hot showers and a book exchange.
Hampton Inn & Suites Denver-Downtown | Best Hotel That Won’t Break Your Budget in Capitol Hill
I’m not gonna lie, finding budget hotels in central Denver is not easy, but Hampton Inn & Suites isn’t going to totally bust your budget if other less expensive lodging options aren’t available.
This property includes a year-round indoor pool and hot tub as well as free breakfast. In addition to its stunning views of the Rockies, you are just a ten-minute walk to the Capitol Building.
Cozy Guest Suite | Best-priced Airbnb in Capitol Hill
With its own separate keyless entry, this cozy one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite will feel like your own little home away from home while in Capitol Hill. The space includes a kitchenette along with a living/dining room, with use of laundry available upon request.
This property is a great choice if you’re looking for a well-priced Airbnb in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
The Scottish | Best Airbnb for a family or group in Capitol Hill
This funky townhouse is sure to be a great stay if you’ve got a group in Capitol Hill. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this townhouse can comfortably accommodate six guests. This spot has all the amenities you could need: fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, free garage and street parking, and family-friendly games.
My favorite part has to be the outside patio area where you can make use of the grill and enjoy a night recounting your favorite moments from the day.
Capitol Hill Loft | Best Loft in Capitol Hill
This cute little place is the perfect spot for first-time travellers in Denver. Centrally located in Capitol Hill, you’ll be perfectly close to places of interest, cafes and shopping opportunities. The loft offers the perfect amount of space for a solo traveller or a couple. It is one of the best Denver Airbnbs in the city.
2. River North Art District • Best Area to Stay in Denver for Nightlife & Art
RiNo, short for River North, is Denver’s most creatively chaotic neighborhood, the kind of place where a world-class mural watches over a line of people waiting to get into a cidery at 11am on a Saturday.
For a traveler, RiNo is one of those rare neighborhoods where the density of interesting things actually delivers on the hype. Within about a half-mile stretch you can eat extraordinary food, drink your way through genuinely inventive local brewing, browse independent shops that sell things you’ve never seen before, and walk past street art that would be the headline attraction of a lesser city.
The walkability is legitimate. You don’t need to plan much; just show up, follow what looks good, and let the neighborhood surprise you.
One thing worth knowing before you go: RiNo has two emotional registers, and they depend almost entirely on the time of day. On weekend afternoons it becomes a kind of outdoor living room for the whole city with strollers, dogs, patios heaving, and the Platte River Trail busy with cyclists. Come Friday night and it transforms into something louder and considerably more committed to the bit.
This is why I recommend RiNo if your aim is to enjoy some great nightlife and art.
- Best For: Nightlife, street art lovers, craft beer and food hall hopping
- The Vibe: Edgy, artistic, with a constant pulse of creative energy
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (roughly 25–35 minutes by car or rideshare)
- Transport Level: High (walkable, bike-friendly; some parking challenges)
- Budget: Moderate (cheaper bites exist, but many trendy venues can run up quickly)
- Crowds: High on weekends and evenings
Top Things to Do in the River North Art District
- Explore the colorful street art and murals – Take a stroll through the streets of RiNo and admire the vibrant and creative murals that adorn the buildings.
- Sip on craft beer at a local brewery – The River North Art District is home to some of the best craft breweries in Denver, including Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks.
- Visit the trendy restaurants and bars – RiNo is packed with trendy bars and restaurants that cater to all tastes, such as Acorn, Work & Class, and The Populist.
- Hunt down some of Denver’s many food trucks for some delicious eats. And, because I like you, here’s a site that helps you find them! Insider tip: You can often find food trucks outside of breweries.
- Shop at unique boutiques and stores – The district is filled with unique stores and boutiques, including boutiques specializing in handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and local art.
- Catch a show or concert – The Bluebird Theater, located in the heart of the district, is a popular venue for concerts, shows, and performances.
- Explore the Denver Central Market – This food hall offers a wide variety of locally-sourced food and drink options, including fresh seafood, artisanal sandwiches, and handcrafted cocktails.
- Take a guided street art tour – Several companies offer guided walking tours of the street art in RiNo, providing visitors with a more in-depth look at the district’s vibrant art scene. A couple of options that looked appealing to me were RiNo Art District Graffiti and Street Art Tour or the more beer-centric RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour. I personally find I’m always better able to appreciate art after a couple of drinks.
- Take a day trip to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – I really don’t think a trip to Denver can be complete without a trip out to Red Rocks. If you’re able to catch a show at the amphitheater, then you’re really living the dream! But even if a show isn’t in the cards, the hiking and sightseeing there are phenomenal. Located about 16 miles from Downtown Denver, you’ll need a car to get there, or you can go with one of the many tours that head out that way every day. Two that looked cool to me are this Red Rocks, Evergreen, and Echo Lake tour and this Red Rocks Nature Hike and Hot Spring Soak.
The Cambria Hotel Denver Downtown | Best Budget-Friendly Hotel in RiNo
The Cambria Hotel is the best-priced hotel option I could track down in RiNo and looks like a great place to stay. This pet-friendly hotel has a restaurant that includes vegetarian options.
The Cambria Hotel is an excellent choice for those who value a clean, polished environment without sacrificing the local character of Denver. It successfully blends the reliability of a professional hotel chain with the vibrant, creative spirit of the RiNo neighborhood.
The Ramble Hotel | Best Boutique Hotel in RiNo
This place just oozes cool. During my stay at The Ramble Hotel in Denver, I was impressed with the convenient location. This hip and cool accommodation in RiNo offers a unique boutique hotel experience with a beautiful interior design that adds to the hotel’s charm and appeal. Most notable, however, was the exceptional staff, who were friendly and welcoming throughout my stay. I highly recommend it as one of the best hotels for a charming and convenient experience in Denver.
RiNo Self-Care Studio | Best Budget-Friendly Airbnb in RiNo
Don’t let its compact size fool you; this place packs a lot into its small square footage without feeling crowded. A queen-size bed and futon mean three people can stay here. There’s also a compact, well-stocked kitchen, with a minifridge, microwave, hot plate, electric griddle, and Keurig.
Guests rave about the location, which is walkable to many RiNo bars and restaurants, as well as public transportation.
Best of all, this guest favorite Airbnb is also a great price!
RiNo Den | Best Loft in RiNo
Next up – the RiNo Den, a cozy loft located in the heart of the River North District. With great hosts and a walkable area filled with coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and shopping, it was easy to explore the neighborhood. The space is updated and modern, making it easy to feel at home while enjoying all that the RiNo/5 Points area has to offer. Very cool place, don’t miss out on this well-priced gem.
Artisan Loft | Best Guesthouse in RiNo
I have to admit this is one of the coolest lofts in Colorado. The vintage charm and industrial design elements make for a unique and interesting atmosphere, with exposed brick, steampunk fixtures, and funky locker cabinets. The interior is fully equipped with all the amenities, including a little snack basket in the kitchen and items stocked in the bathroom cabinet. Comfortable beds and couches make this place a home away from home, with a fun and inviting decor that will make you want to come back and stay.
3. Lower Downtown/Union Station • Best Area to Stay in Denver for First-Timers
If you’re someone who likes to stay at the center of the action, Lower Downtown – or LoDo – is one of the best areas to stay in Denver. LoDo is without a doubt the coolest neighborhood in Denver. It is nestled between the South Platte River and the Central Business District and is just a short walk from downtown Denver.
LoDo is characterized by its historic architecture and its Victorian charm. Wander throughout the streets of this hip ‘hood and enjoy some of the best sights, sounds and smells of Denver. Here you’ll be surrounded by a great selection of cafes, restaurants, art galleries, museums, bars and clubs.
The crown jewel of LoDo (in my opinion) is Union Station, a seriously gorgeous historic train depot sitting right in the middle of Denver, with architecture so stunning it’s basically begging to be on your Instagram feed. With 12 million visitors a year, you already know the energy here is unmatched. It’s not just a transportation center; it’s the city’s go-to hub for getting around and hanging out.
Union Station also serves as a perfect starting point to embark on a journey to visit the best places in Colorado, if Denver is part of a larger Colorado trip for you.
- Best For: First time in Denver, nightlife, Union Station access, proximity to stadiums and historic sites
- The Vibe: Historic, grid-like streets with a lively party-and-dine scene
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (about 25–40 minutes by car)
- Transport Level: High (walkable core, good rail connections)
- Budget: Moderate (range from budget bites to craft-dine experiences)
- Crowds: High, especially evenings and weekends
Top Things to Do in LoDo:
- Enjoy incredible sweeping vistas from The Viewhouse.
- Try to catch a Colorado Rockies Baseball game at Coors Field.
- Wander through Larimer Square, the oldest and most historic block in the city.
- Surround yourself with the buzz of Denver at Union Station, which hosts an array of restaurants, bars and shops.
- In Denver during ski season? Hop on the Amtrak Winter Park Express at Union Station for a ride straight to the slopes of Winter Park Resort (no car needed! SCORE!)
- Learn more about the City’s African American Community at the Black American West Museum.
- Take a stroll through Commons Park.
- See exquisite sculptures, drawings and installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver.
- Step back in time in The Cruise Room, Denver’s first post-prohibition bar.
- See your favorite sea creatures and aquatic animals at the Downtown Aquarium.
Hostel Fish | Best Hostel in LoDo
A great location, colourful artwork and modern décor are just a few of the reasons I love this hostel. Set in central Denver, this is the city’s best party hostel and one of the best places to stay in Denver to meet people. It is close to bars, restaurants, clubs and pubs. You’ll also find many of the top places to visit in Denver within walking distance.
Holiday Inn Express Denver Downtown by IHG | Most Budget-Friendly Hotel in LoDo
If you’re trying to stay on a budget, Holiday Inn Express is probably gonna be your best bet as far as hotels in LoDo. Their awesome free breakfast options are the cherry on top of this budget-friendly pie.
This location also has a fitness center in case you don’t get enough of a workout from walking all over the city.
The Crawford Hotel | Best Boutique Hotel in LoDo
Next time I go to Denver, this is where I’m staying (as long as I keep saving my pennies!). I’m admittedly a sucker for historic train stations, so what could be cooler than a hotel located on the top floors of the revitalized Union Station?!
If you ever manage to pull yourself out of your sumptuous room, this exceptional hotel also offers a fitness center, restaurant, bar, and coffee shop.
Comfortable Apartment with Great Amenities | Best Airbnb in LoDo
Not only is this one of the lowest-priced LoDo Airbnbs I could find (aside from two that had very poor ratings due to noise), it’s got some of the best amenities too: hot tubs, resort-style pool, outdoor grills, firepits, cabanas, two-story gym, shuffleboard, pool tables, and work areas. AND it’s just across the street from Union Station.
This one-bedroom apartment has a full kitchen, a living room, and a comfy little balcony overlooking the pool area. You can stop looking now. Just book it.
4. Uptown/North Capitol Hill • Best Area to Stay in Denver for Families
Uptown is the kind of place that rewards families who are slightly tired of the scripted tourist experience. (Denver locals use it interchangeably with North Capitol Hill, which tells you something about how the neighborhood resists easy categorization.) It sits just east of downtown, close enough to walk to the big stuff but far enough removed that you’re not constantly dodging a bachelor party.
The main drag, East 17th Avenue, runs through the whole thing like a spine, and it is quietly one of the better restaurant streets in the city for a family who wants to eat well without anyone handing you a pager and telling you the wait is forty-five minutes. You’ll also find great shops, charming cafes, and buzzing bars along this street as well.
What makes Uptown work for families specifically is that it operates at a human scale that Denver’s bigger, splashier neighborhoods sometimes forget about. Cheesman Park is a short walk south and is exactly the kind of expansive, low-key green space where kids can run themselves completely ragged while adults sit on the grass and momentarily remember what it feels like to relax.
- Best For: Families, parks, boutique eateries, and easy access to museums
- The Vibe: Residential with a cultural and architectural edge
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (roughly 25–40 minutes by car)
- Transport Level: Moderate to High (solid bus routes, bike-friendly)
- Budget: Moderate (a mix of affordable and mid-range options)
- Crowds: Moderate, steady with pockets of weekend bustle
Top Things to Do in Uptown
- See your favorite animals, birds, reptiles and more at the Denver Zoo.
- Enjoy the art installations or explore an Expo at the Colorado Convention Center.
- Dig into a delicious plate of burgers and fries at Park & Co burgers.
- Browse the wonderful exhibits and displays at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
- Explore the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys, home to a collection of more than 20,000 objects.
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in verdant City Park, which covers more than 330 acres of land.
- Satisfy your taste buds with an artisanal treat at Voodoo Doughnuts.
- Dine on great foods and flavours at Steuben’s.
- Kickstart your day with a cup of joe at Fluid Coffee Bar.
- I love to go white water rafting and Colorado has some epic rafting choices. Best of all, they have family-friendly rafting options suitable for children five years and older!
Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Downtown | Best Hotel in Uptown
A great location, a myriad of amenities and spacious rooms are just a few of the reasons I love this hotel. Located in Denver’s Uptown neighborhood, this hotel is within walking distance of the city’s top bars, restaurants and things to do in Denver. Guests can enjoy large rooms, private bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs.
Modern Studio | Best Budget-friendly Airbnb in Uptown
This modern studio is perfect if you want a spot to drop your stuff, spend your time out and about, and then come back for a comfy night’s sleep in your own private space. The studio includes a queen bed, a small couch, a two-person table, a wet bar, and a bathroom with a stand-up shower.
Free on-street parking is also available with the included guest parking pass.
Modern Home with Stunning Rooftop | Best Airbnb for a large family or group in Uptown
If you have a group of six (or more) people, this centrally-located home in the heart of Denver is the perfect choice. The main house includes three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, along with a great full kitchen and an incredible rooftop patio with couches that are calling your name to come sit and relax a bit.
If your group is larger than six, this property has an additional studio, which happens to also be our most budget-friendly option in Uptown (listed above) that can be rented out as well and accommodates another two people.
Oh! I don’t want to forget to mention the single-car garage as well.
Uptown Retreat | Best Airbnb for a family in Uptown
This modern, garden-level residence is located in an 1889 historic stone mansion and includes two bedrooms and one bathroom, making it very comfortable for a group of four. You can cook dinner in the well-equipped kitchen and do a load of laundry if you need.
An off-street parking spot, as well as a small outdoor personal patio, round out the offerings of this great family spot.
Central Denver Apartment | Best Airbnb for Digital Nomads in Uptown
Digital nomads, rejoice! This gorgeous Denver Airbnb has high ceilings, a well-stocked kitchen, and multiple office spaces for remote workers. The apartment is a remodelled 1890s historic Denver building, ideally placed between Denver’s most famous parks (Cheesman Park and City Park).
Not only is the apartment itself incredible, but you’re also in a bangin location. Close to Denver’s best restaurants, bars, breweries, and entertainment.
FAQs About Staying in Denver
Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Denver.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Denver
If you accidentally slip and twist your ankle while hiking out at Red Rocks, it’s important you have good travel insurance should a medical emergency or any other travel-related emergency arise.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
So, Where Are YOU Going to Stay in Denver?
Denver is a lively and vibrant city that merges history, culture, contemporary and fun. It has so much to offer travelers, from Denver’s esteemed art galleries and museums to sporting adventures and bustling brewery tours. No matter your age, style or budget, there’s something for everyone in Denver.
If Dever is just your starting point for a larger Colorado trip, our best things to do in Colorado post should definitely help with the rest of your plans!
To recap, my recommendation for the best budget accommodations is Ember Hostel. Located in Capitol Hill, this hostel is close to shops, restaurants, museums and top tourist landmarks.
I also recommend The Crawford Hotel. This property is packed with charm, history and incredible amenities. And don’t forget one of my favorites, The Ramble Hotel – such a cool place to stay.
Still not sure where to stay in Denver? If you’re looking for more choices on budget-friendly accommodations, you can take a look at our post on hostels in Denver as well.
Let me know if I’ve missed anything in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Denver.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Denver.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Denver instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Denver to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Denver is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
