Explore Denver Union Station: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Denver Union Station is a historic landmark and transportation hub located in the heart of Denver, Colorado. Built in 1914, it has been fully restored and transformed into a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or culture vulture, Denver Union Station has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Denver Union Station has to offer.
Top Attractions
Denver Union Station is home to several must-see attractions, including the Crawford Hotel, the Terminal Bar, and the iconic “Travel by Train” sign. The Crawford Hotel is a boutique hotel located inside the station, featuring luxurious accommodations and unique design elements that pay homage to the building’s history. The Terminal Bar is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious bar bites. The “Travel by Train” sign is a beloved landmark that has been a part of the station’s history for over a century.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, Denver Union Station is also home to several hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. One such gem is the Cooper Lounge, a swanky cocktail bar located on the mezzanine level of the station. With its plush seating, stunning views, and top-notch cocktails, the Cooper Lounge is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city. Another hidden gem is the Milkbox Ice Creamery, which serves up delicious, locally sourced ice cream in a charming retro setting.
Food Scene
Denver Union Station is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Mercantile Dining & Provision is a popular spot for upscale dining, featuring farm-to-table cuisine and an extensive wine list. For something more casual, head to Acme Delicatessen for delicious sandwiches and salads made from scratch. For a quick caffeine fix, visit Pigtrain Coffee Co., a local roaster that serves up some of the best coffee in the city.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Denver Union Station is certainly a luxurious destination, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it on a budget. For example, the station offers free guided tours every Tuesday and Saturday, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the building’s history and architecture. Additionally, many of the dining options at the station offer happy hour specials and other discounts, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Adventures
Denver is known for its incredible outdoor opportunities, and Denver Union Station is no exception. The station is located just a short distance from several parks and green spaces, including Commons Park and Confluence Park. Rent a bike from the B-Cycle station located just outside the station and explore the city’s many bike trails, or take a kayak or paddleboard out on the South Platte River for a unique perspective on the city.
Historical Landmarks
As a historic landmark, Denver Union Station is home to several important historical landmarks and artifacts. The station’s main hall is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate tile work, while the upstairs mezzanine features a collection of historic photographs and artifacts. Be sure to take a moment to admire the “Whispering Arch,” a unique architectural feature that allows you to whisper into one corner of the hall and be heard on the other side.
Family-Friendly Activities
Denver Union Station is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Take a ride on the Denver Trolley, a historic streetcar that runs between the station and Confluence Park. Visit the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, located just a short distance from the station, for hands-on exhibits and interactive play areas. Finally, don’t miss the Denver Union Station Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday during the summer months and features a wide range of local vendors and artisans.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, Denver Union Station has plenty to offer. Take a guided tour of the station’s underground tunnels, which were used to transport luggage and mail in the early 20th century. Visit the Oxford Hotel, located just across the street from the station, for a taste of old-world luxury and charm. Finally, explore the nearby RiNo (River North) neighborhood, which is home to some of the city’s best street art, breweries, and restaurants.
Natural Wonders
Denver is known for its stunning natural beauty, and Denver Union Station is the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s many natural wonders. Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, located just a short drive from the city, for hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, located just a short distance from the station, for a peaceful oasis of gardens and greenery in the heart of the city.
Vibrant Nightlife
Denver Union Station is also a great destination for nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Head to the Terminal Bar for live music and craft cocktails, or visit the Great Divide Brewing Co. for a taste of some of the city’s best craft beer. For a more upscale experience, visit The Cooper Lounge for stunning views and top-notch cocktails.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, be sure to visit the Denver Union Station Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday during the summer months. The market features a wide range of local vendors and artisans selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Additionally, the station is home to several specialty food shops, including the Mercantile Dining & Provision and the Acme Delicatessen, which offer a range of locally sourced and artisanal products.
Beaches and Mountains
While Denver might not be known for its beaches, there are plenty of nearby destinations where you can enjoy some fun in the sun. Head to Cherry Creek State Park, located just a short drive from the city, for swimming, boating, and fishing. For a taste of the mountains, take a day trip to the nearby ski resorts of Breckenridge or Vail, where you can enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Cultural Immersion
Denver is a city rich in culture and history, and Denver Union Station is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Take a walking tour of the nearby Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood, which is home to some of the city’s best galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. Visit the Denver Art Museum, located just a short distance from the station, for a world-class collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
Art and Music Scene
Denver is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and Denver Union Station is no exception. The station is home to several live music venues, including the Terminal Bar and The Great Hall, which host local and national acts throughout the year. Additionally, the station is home to several galleries and art installations, including the “Bird Call” sculpture by artist Laura Resen and the “Words on the Street” installation by artist Lawrence Argent.
Walking Tours
Denver is a great city for walking, and Denver Union Station is the perfect starting point for exploring some of the city’s best neighborhoods and landmarks. Take a walking tour of the nearby LoDo neighborhood, which is home to some of the city’s best architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural institutions. Visit the nearby Colorado State Capitol building for a glimpse into the state’s political history and stunning views of the city.
Architectural Marvels
Denver Union Station is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, with its soaring columns, intricate tile work, and beautiful stained glass windows. The station is also home to several other architectural marvels, including the nearby Oxford Hotel, a historic landmark that has been beautifully restored and preserved. Visit the nearby Daniels and Fisher Tower, a historic skyscraper that offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
Historical Sites
As a historic landmark, Denver Union Station is home to several important historical sites and landmarks. Take a guided tour of the station’s main hall and learn about its history and architecture, or visit the upstairs mezzanine to see a collection of historic photographs and artifacts. Additionally, the station is located just a short distance from several other important historical sites, including the Molly Brown House Museum and the Colorado State Capitol building.
Biking Routes
Denver is a great city for biking, and Denver Union Station is the perfect starting point for exploring some of the city’s best bike routes and trails. Rent a bike from the B-Cycle station located just outside the station and explore the nearby Cherry Creek