Directions To 16Th Street Mall
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Denver, Colorado, then you must include 16th Street Mall in your itinerary. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and for good reason. This mile-long pedestrian mall is home to a plethora of shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions that cater to all interests and budgets. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about exploring 16th Street Mall, from the top attractions to hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, and more.
Top Attractions
One of the most iconic attractions of 16th Street Mall is the free MallRide shuttle bus that runs up and down the street. Hop on and off at any of the designated stops to explore the area at your leisure. The Denver Pavilions is another must-visit attraction, with over 40 restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to choose from. If you’re a fan of art, then head over to the Denver Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of American Indian, African, and contemporary art.
Hidden Gems
For a unique shopping experience, check out the Tattered Cover Book Store, an independent bookstore that’s been around for over 40 years. The store has a vast collection of books, including rare and out-of-print titles, and hosts author events and book clubs. Another hidden gem is the Clocktower Cabaret, a burlesque theater that features live music, comedy, and variety shows.
Food Scene
16th Street Mall is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of options to choose from. Head over to Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen for some delicious pub food and craft beer. For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, try La Loma, which has been serving up mouth-watering dishes for over 40 years. If you’re in the mood for some pizza, then head over to Marco’s Coal-Fired Pizzeria for some of the best pizza in town.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Exploring 16th Street Mall doesn’t have to break the bank. Take advantage of the free MallRide shuttle bus to get around the area. There are also plenty of affordable food options, such as the food trucks that are parked along the mall. If you’re traveling with kids, then check out the Children’s Museum of Denver, which offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, then head over to Confluence Park, which is located at the southern end of 16th Street Mall. The park has a beautiful riverfront trail, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing opportunities. You can also rent a bike from Denver B-cycle and explore the city at your own pace.
Historical Landmarks
16th Street Mall is rich in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. The Daniels & Fisher Tower is one such landmark, built in 1910 and standing at 330 feet tall. The tower was once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. The Brown Palace Hotel is another historical building, built in 1892 and known for its stunning architecture and luxurious accommodations.
Family-Friendly Activities
16th Street Mall has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts offers a variety of shows and performances suitable for all ages. The Downtown Aquarium is another must-visit attraction, with over 500 species of marine life and a variety of interactive exhibits.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, check out the Forney Museum of Transportation. The museum has an impressive collection of antique automobiles, steam locomotives, and aviation exhibits. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is taking a ghost tour of Denver, where you’ll explore the city’s haunted history.
Natural Wonders
Denver is known for its natural beauty, and 16th Street Mall is no exception. Take a stroll through Commons Park, which offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. You can also take a day trip to Mount Evans, which is the highest paved road in North America and offers breathtaking views of the mountain range.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for some nightlife, then head over to the Cruise Room Bar, which is located in the historic Oxford Hotel. The bar has a unique art deco design and offers a wide variety of cocktails. The ViewHouse is another popular nightlife destination, with a rooftop bar and plenty of entertainment options.
Local Markets
For a taste of local culture, check out the Denver Union Station Farmers Market, which offers a variety of locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses. The market is open every Saturday from May to October. Another local market worth exploring is the Cherry Creek Farmers Market, which offers a variety of artisanal foods and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Denver may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some beach time. Head over to Chatfield State Park, which has a beach area and plenty of water activities, such as paddleboarding and kayaking. If you’re looking to hit the slopes, then head over to one of the nearby ski resorts, such as Keystone or Breckenridge.
Cultural Immersion
Denver has a rich cultural scene, and 16th Street Mall offers plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. The Colorado Ballet offers a variety of performances throughout the year, including classical ballet and contemporary dance. The Clyfford Still Museum is another must-visit attraction, with a collection of over 3,000 paintings and sculptures by the renowned artist.
Art and Music Scene
Denver is known for its vibrant art and music scene, and 16th Street Mall is no exception. The Denver Performing Arts Complex offers a variety of shows and performances, from Broadway musicals to classical concerts. The Museum of Contemporary Art is another must-visit attraction, with a collection of over 5,000 works of contemporary art.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore 16th Street Mall is on foot. Take a walking tour of the area to learn about its history and culture. The Denver Architecture Foundation offers a variety of walking tours, from historic neighborhoods to modern skyscrapers. Another walking tour worth checking out is the Denver Graffiti Tour, which showcases the city’s vibrant street art scene.
Architectural Marvels
Denver has a variety of architectural marvels, and 16th Street Mall is no exception. The Daniels & Fisher Tower is one such marvel, with its stunning Beaux-Arts design. The Colorado State Capitol is another must-visit attraction, with its impressive gold dome and neoclassical architecture.
Historical Sites
Denver is rich in history, and 16th Street Mall has plenty of historical sites to explore. The Molly Brown House Museum is one such site, which was once the home of the Titanic survivor and philanthropist, Molly Brown. The Byers-Evans House Museum is another must-visit attraction, with its stunning Victorian architecture and collection of antiques.
Biking Routes
If you’re looking to explore Denver on two wheels, then head over to 16th Street Mall and rent a bike from Denver B-cycle. The city has a variety of biking routes to choose from, including the Cherry Creek Trail, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, then head over to The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon, which offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness programs. The club also has a fitness center and rooftop pool, where you can relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
Adventure Sports
Denver is known for its outdoor adventures, and 16th Street Mall offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Head over to the Denver Rock Gym for some indoor rock climbing, or check out the Downtown Denver Kayak School for some river kayaking lessons.
Conclusion
16th Street Mall is a must-visit destination in Denver, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for 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, or adventure sports, 16th Street Mall has it all. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!