Staycation in Denver: Free or Inexpensive Things to Do in Denver
At Sloane’s Carpet Secret, we are always hunting for the best deals in town, and that doesn’t stop with carpet. Especially in the summer, when activities and outings can really add up, we are always on the lookout for something free or inexpensive to do in Denver. We have compiled a list of our favorite “staycation” ideas for this summer. We hope it inspires you to try something new!
Spend a Day at the Museum
Denver is home to many incredible museums, and these can be a nice activity for a rainy day or a day when you need to get out of the heat. Most museums in Denver have free days throughout the year, so if you are willing to brave the crowds you can experience these museums without even pulling your wallet out.
- The Clyfford Still Museum is free each Friday from 5-8 p.m. and is free the whole day on the last Friday of every month. Plus, kids under 18 are free all the time, so this is a very inexpensive activity even on a day other than Friday. This museum is highly lauded and art enthusiasts come from all over the country to see the collection of Still pieces housed in the museum.
- The Museum of Nature and Science is free on several Sundays and Mondays throughout the year. This year the remaining free days are: August 29, September 11, October 24 (which is Fossil Day!), November 13 and December 12. This is a great activity for all ages—you can experience outer space, dinosaurs, rare gems, an interactive health exhibit and so much more.
- The Children’s Museum of Denver is free every first Tuesday of the month from 4-8 p.m. We personally love this museum and believe that every child should spend as much time here as possible! There are so many different activities that it is sure to please everyone in the family.
- The Denver Art Museum is free every first Saturday of the month and is free to those 18 and under every day! Whatever your style, the Denver Art Museum is sure to have an exhibit that excites. The two main featured exhibits now are Women in Abstract Expressionism and Rhythm and Roots. You can find descriptions and a full list of exhibitions here.
Get Outside
Denver has some of the best hiking in the world. We highly suggest you get out and hike somewhere you have never been before just to see a different part of our beautiful state. There are trails for every skill level, so you can make this as challenging as you would like and experience something beautiful and gratifying no matter what. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are still many free and inexpensive things you can do outside this summer!
- Jazz in the Park: Every Sunday in City Park, people of all backgrounds and interests come together to hear some great music and spend time outside. This year marks 30 years of this wonderful and very beloved tradition. City Park is one of Denver’s most iconic parks, so even if you aren’t into jazz you can enjoy an evening in the beautiful scenery. The last concert of the season is Sunday, August 7, so mark your calendars and get out there!
- Outdoor Films: For those who would rather relax and watch a movie than plan a big summer night out, we have a perfect combination here in Denver. Every other Monday you can catch a free film at Infinity Park. The gates open at 7:00 and the film starts at 8:00. Then you can head on up to Red Rocks once a month for Film on the Rocks, an incredible experience. For $15 you get a performance by a local band followed by a film, all while sitting in the most beautiful concert venue in the world.
- Outdoor Yoga: This has become a trend throughout the Denver area. Our personal favorite is Yoga at the Gardens. Every Tuesday and Thursday at 8pm and Wednesdays at 6pm, you can find a group of yogis practicing outside in beautiful surroundings. Each session is $10 for members and $12 for non-members. There are also many free yoga events at parks all over the city this summer, so be sure to look and see if your favorite park has these events scheduled.
Support Local Food and Art
Denver has always been vibrant, but the food and art scenes have really picked up in the last few years. Here are some of our favorite ways to experience local food and art.
- Farmers Markets: At farmers markets all over the city, you are sure to find something you love while supporting your local community. From peaches to tamales to fresh breads to local honey, there are so many things to smell and taste. The farmers markets also often feature live music and our favorite free activity: people watching. No matter what day it is, you are sure to find an amazing market somewhere in the city.
- First Friday Art Walks: This might be our favorite activity of all. Every first Friday of the month, galleries in Denver’s seven art districts stay open late for visitors of all ages. This is a huge art party that allows you to see the art being produced in your community. You will also find food trucks and live music all over. If you are in the Santa Fe Art District, you can take a free guided shuttle around and learn even more about this event and the artists behind it.
How to Use This Information
At Sloane’s Carpet Secret, we want to make sure you get quality products at an affordable price. We want you to get the best deal on everything, from art museum admission to carpet selection and installation. We are the best in the discount carpet business and we want to help you find the carpet of your dreams! Call us today at (303) 300-9555 or contact us online!