How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Denver, United States

1. Union Station

Historic transit hub with numerous touristy restaurants and shops; visit during the day for lower prices.

Authentic Eateries Nearby: Seek out local eateries nearby for a more authentic dining experience.
Time of Visit: Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and inflated prices.
Avoid Souvenir Shops: Skip the overpriced souvenir shops within Union Station, opt for local stores outside instead.

Free bus tour attraction filled with street performers and souvenir vendors; explore nearby neighborhoods for unique finds.

Neighborhood Exploration: Take a detour to explore vibrant neighborhoods like RiNo or LoDo for local gems.
Off-Mall Dining: Avoid dining on the mall itself and seek out local eateries nearby.
Skip Souvenirs On Mall: Wait to purchase souvenirs in local shops outside of the mall for better prices.

Admission is free on specific days, but still attracts crowds; visit during off-hours or consider alternate attractions.

Alternate Attractions: Discover other local museums or attractions that may be less crowded.
Timing: Avoid peak hours and visit during off-hours to see the exhibits with fewer crowds.
Special Events: Check for special events that may draw larger crowds and adjust your plans accordingly.

Attracts tourists with its free tour; consider local craft breweries for a more authentic experience.

Local Craft Breweries: Discover local breweries offering unique and diverse beer options.
Tour Availability: Check for availability as tours can fill up quickly.
Off-Hours Experience: Opt for off-hours experiences to avoid crowds and have a more personalized visit.

Beautiful gardens with gift shop and café; visit during off-peak hours or plan a picnic lunch.

Picnic Lunch: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in a less crowded area of the gardens.
Timing: Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid large crowds.
Alternate Activities: Consider other outdoor activities in the Denver area for a change of pace.

Upscale shopping and dining destination; seek out local businesses for a more authentic experience.

Local Businesses: Explore locally-owned boutiques and eateries in the surrounding area.
Off-Peak Hours: Avoid peak hours to dine or shop without the crowds.
Street Performers: Enjoy street performers while discovering hidden gems nearby.

Popular attraction with long lines and high prices; consider visiting during off-peak hours or purchasing online tickets in advance.

Online Tickets: Purchase tickets online to avoid waiting in line.
Timing: Avoid peak hours and visit during off-peak times for a more enjoyable experience.
Alternate Attractions: Consider other wildlife attractions or activities in the Denver area.

Guided tours of sports stadiums can be pricey; consider self-guided tours or local sports bars instead.

Self-Guided Tours: Explore the area around the stadium on your own for a more personalized experience.
Local Sports Bars: Immerse yourself in local sports culture at a nearby bar or pub.
Timing: Plan your visit during off-hours to avoid crowds and peak prices.

Beautiful national park with high admission fees and crowded trails; plan ahead and choose less popular trails.

Less Popular Trails: Research lesser-known trails for a more peaceful hiking experience.
Early Arrival: Arrive early to secure parking and beat the crowds.
Off-Season Visits: Consider visiting during off-peak season for smaller crowds and lower prices.

Famous concert venue with overpriced food and drinks; pack a picnic or visit during the day.

Picnic Lunch: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy before or after your visit.
Daytime Visit: Visit during the day for a peaceful and scenic experience without concerts.
Local Food Options: Seek out local eateries nearby for affordable dining options.

Popular attraction with high admission fees; consider alternative aquariums or local beaches.

Alternative Aquariums: Research local aquariums offering more affordable prices.
Local Beaches: Discover nearby beaches for a free and relaxing experience.
Timing: Avoid peak hours to enjoy the aquarium with fewer crowds.

Pricey tickets for Broadway shows; consider local theater productions or free events.

Local Theater Productions: Discover locally-produced plays and performances.
Free Events: Check for free events happening around the city during your visit.
Timing: Plan ahead and book tickets in advance to secure the best deals.

Trendy neighborhood with overpriced restaurants; seek out local favorites and off-the-beaten-path eateries.

Local Favorites: Ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Eateries: Research lesser-known eateries in the area.
Avoid Peak Hours: Dine during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and high prices.

Bustling entertainment district with overpriced drinks; seek out happy hours or local watering holes.

Happy Hours: Take advantage of happy hour specials to save on drinks.
Local Watering Holes: Discover local bars and pubs off the beaten path.
Avoid Peak Hours: Avoid peak hours to save on drinks and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Admission fees can add up; consider free museum days or alternate attractions.

Free Museum Days: Check for free admission days and plan your visit accordingly.
Alternate Attractions: Research other local museums or attractions offering a similar experience.
Timing: Avoid peak hours and visit during off-peak times for a more enjoyable experience.