19 Must-Experience Hidden Gems When Visiting Denver (2026 Guide)

Everyone knows Red Rocks, LoDo, and the 16th Street Mall. But Denver's real magic lives in the hidden corners — the castle-themed toy stores, the restaurants inside enchanted forests, the 130-year-old saloons where cowboys once drank, and the speakeasies behind unmarked doors. These are the places that make Denver one of the most unique and exciting cities in the country.

You want to experience the REAL Denver. Not the tourist version, but the city that locals fiercely love and protect. These hidden gems are, well, hidden. You won't find most of them on the first page of TripAdvisor. That's why we've put together this definitive guide to Denver's 19 most unforgettable hidden gems — places that will make you feel like a true Denver insider and give you stories worth telling for years to come.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong local who thinks you've seen it all, this list will surprise you. From past-life regression therapy to the dankest corner in America, Denver's hidden gems are wilder, weirder, and more wonderful than you ever imagined.

#1 The Wizard's Chest

Address: 451 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 (Cherry Creek)

Nestled in the Cherry Creek neighborhood, The Wizard's Chest is a castle-themed wonderland that has been sparking imaginations since 1983. Spanning an impressive 8,000 square feet across two magical floors, this is not your average toy store — it's an experience. The moment you step through the door, you're greeted by Winchester Slatebeard, the store's resident wizard, who sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The castle facade on the outside is just a hint of the fantasy world that awaits within.

Inside, you'll find two sprawling floors packed with board games, costumes, magic tricks, puzzles, and collectibles that cater to every age and interest. The first floor is a treasure trove of tabletop games, from classic favorites to the latest releases, alongside an incredible selection of costumes for Halloween, cosplay, or just because. The second floor takes things up a notch with dedicated sections for magic supplies, brain-teasing puzzles, and rare collectibles that you simply won't find anywhere else in Denver.

What makes The Wizard's Chest truly special is the sense of wonder it creates. This isn't a place where you grab something off a shelf and leave — it's a place where you wander, discover, and get lost in the magic. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable, always ready to demonstrate a magic trick or recommend the perfect board game for your group. Whether you're shopping for a gift, looking for your next game night obsession, or just want to feel like a kid again, The Wizard's Chest is an absolute must-visit Denver hidden gem.

#2 The Buckhorn Exchange

Address: 1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204

The Buckhorn Exchange isn't just a restaurant — it's a living, breathing piece of Colorado history. Opened in 1893, this legendary establishment holds Colorado Liquor License No. 1, making it the very first bar legally licensed to serve alcohol in the entire state. Walking through the doors of the Buckhorn is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to the days of the Wild West, when cowboys, miners, and railroad workers gathered here to share meals and stories.

The interior is unlike anything you've ever seen in a restaurant. Over 500 mounted game animals line the walls and ceilings, creating a jaw-dropping taxidermy collection that includes everything from buffalo and elk to exotic species from around the world. Every inch of wall space tells a story, and the sheer scale of the collection is both impressive and slightly overwhelming. The Buckhorn was designated a Colorado Historic Landmark in 1972, and it's easy to see why — the atmosphere is absolutely unmatched.

But the Buckhorn Exchange isn't just about the decor — the food is an adventure in itself. The menu features exotic meats that you won't find at your typical Denver steakhouse, including elk medallions, quail, alligator tail, rattlesnake, and buffalo prime rib. Each dish is prepared with care and served with generous sides. If you're visiting Denver and want a dining experience that combines history, atmosphere, and genuinely adventurous cuisine, the Buckhorn Exchange is the kind of place you'll be talking about for years. Make a reservation — this gem has been drawing crowds for over 130 years for good reason.

#3 Crystal Soul Path: Lee Mitchell

Address: Littleton, CO (by appointment)

If you thought Denver's hidden gems were limited to restaurants and bars, think again. Crystal Soul Path, operated by certified hypnotherapist Lee Mitchell, offers one of the most unique and thought-provoking alternative therapy experiences in the Denver metro area: Past Life Regression therapy. Located in the quiet suburb of Littleton, this is the kind of hidden gem that most people don't even know exists — and those who discover it often come back again and again.

Past Life Regression therapy is a form of guided hypnosis that takes you on a journey through what practitioners believe are your previous lifetimes. Whether you're a true believer in reincarnation or simply curious about exploring your subconscious mind, the experience is genuinely fascinating. Lee Mitchell is a certified hypnotherapist who creates a comfortable, welcoming environment for sessions. You'll settle into a cozy couch, close your eyes, and be gently guided into a deeply relaxed state where vivid imagery and memories begin to surface.

What makes this experience so compelling is how personal and unique each session is. No two journeys are alike, and participants frequently report vivid, emotionally powerful experiences that offer new perspectives on their current lives. Whether you approach it as spiritual exploration, psychological introspection, or simply a unique adventure, a session with Lee Mitchell at Crystal Soul Path is unlike anything else you'll find in Denver. It's the kind of hidden gem that challenges your assumptions and gives you a story that no one else at the dinner table will be able to top.

#4 Beatrice and Woodsley

Address: 38 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209 (South Broadway)

Beatrice and Woodsley on South Broadway is what happens when a restaurant decides that ordinary dining is boring and goes all-in on creating a fairy tale. From the moment you step inside, you're transported into an enchanted forest — and we're not exaggerating. The interior is filled with faux aspen trees that stretch from floor to ceiling, twinkling lights that create an ethereal glow, and rustic woodland decor that makes you feel like you've wandered into a storybook. The attention to detail is extraordinary, and every corner reveals a new visual surprise.

The seasonal menu at Beatrice and Woodsley is as creative and beautiful as the decor. Dishes are crafted with locally sourced ingredients and change regularly to reflect what's fresh and in season. The cocktail program is equally impressive, with inventive drinks that are almost too pretty to sip. But beyond the food and drinks, it's the little details that make this place legendary among Denver locals. The restrooms alone are worth the visit — featuring waterfall sinks that cascade into stone basins, they're the most Instagram-worthy bathrooms in the city. Downstairs, a cellar dining area features walls covered in real moss, creating an intimate, grotto-like atmosphere.

Beatrice and Woodsley is the kind of restaurant where every element works together to create a complete sensory experience. It's romantic, whimsical, and completely unlike any other restaurant in Denver. Whether you're planning a date night, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to dine somewhere truly magical, Beatrice and Woodsley delivers an evening you won't forget. Reservations are highly recommended — word has gotten out, and tables fill up fast.

#5 Forest Room 5

Address: 2532 15th St, Denver, CO 80211 (Platte River Valley)

Tucked away in the Platte River Valley neighborhood, Forest Room 5 is a lumberjack-themed restaurant and bar that feels like a cabin retreat in the middle of the city. The concept is brilliantly executed — the interior features glass enclosures filled with living forest scenes, creating the illusion that you're dining in a woodland clearing. Rough-hewn wood, flannel accents, and warm lighting complete the rustic atmosphere, making this one of Denver's most distinctive and cozy dining spots.

The menu at Forest Room 5 is comfort food done right, with a standout feature that earns it a permanent spot on this list: breakfast is served all day. Whether you're craving fluffy pancakes at noon, a hearty eggs Benedict at 5 PM, or a classic bacon-and-eggs plate at 9 PM, Forest Room 5 has you covered. The menu also includes elevated bar food, hearty sandwiches, and seasonal specials that rotate regularly. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's menu, making this one of the rare hidden gems that's genuinely welcoming for all ages.

What truly sets Forest Room 5 apart is the outdoor area. Step outside and you'll find a genuine teepee, fire pits where you can warm your hands on cool Colorado evenings, and a patio area that feels worlds away from the urban surroundings. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed evening with friends, a family brunch, or a unique date night. Forest Room 5 proves that you don't need to drive to the mountains to get that cozy cabin feeling — it's right here in Denver, hiding in plain sight.

#6 Casa Bonita

Address: 6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214

Casa Bonita is not just a restaurant — it's a Denver institution, a cultural phenomenon, and arguably the most famous hidden gem in Colorado. Located in Lakewood and operating since 1970, this sprawling 10,000+ square foot entertainment complex gained worldwide fame when it was featured on South Park, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for anyone who sets foot in Denver. In 2022, South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone purchased and renovated the entire establishment, elevating it from beloved kitsch to a genuinely impressive experience.

The sheer scale of Casa Bonita is staggering. Inside, you'll find cliff divers plunging 30 feet into an indoor pool, live theatrical shows ranging from comedy to gunfight reenactments, a mysterious cave system called Black Bart's Cave to explore, and even a resident gorilla performer who roams the dining area entertaining guests. The all-you-can-eat format means you can feast on sopapillas and Mexican-inspired dishes while watching cliff divers launch themselves through the air just feet from your table. It's chaotic, it's loud, it's colorful, and it's absolutely glorious.

Since the renovation, the food quality has been dramatically upgraded while keeping the spirit of the original experience intact. Casa Bonita is the kind of place that defies description — you simply have to see it for yourself. Whether you grew up watching the South Park episode and dreamed of visiting, or you're hearing about it for the first time, Casa Bonita delivers an experience that is purely, wonderfully, uniquely Denver. Plan ahead and get tickets early — after the renovation, demand is higher than ever.

#7 Boulder Dushanbe Tea House

Address: 1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

The Boulder Dushanbe Tea House is one of the most extraordinary buildings in all of Colorado, and its origin story is as remarkable as the structure itself. In 1980, the city of Dushanbe in Tajikistan gifted this stunning tea house to its sister city of Boulder as a symbol of friendship and cultural exchange. The entire 10,000-square-foot structure was hand-crafted by over 40 artisans in Tajikistan over a period of several years, then carefully disassembled, shipped across the world, and reassembled piece by piece in Boulder. Not a single power tool was used in its original construction.

Every surface of the tea house is a work of art. The hand-painted Persian ceilings feature intricate floral and geometric patterns in vivid colors that seem to glow in the natural light. Carved wooden pillars, ceramic panels, and a stunning exterior pool and fountain complete the visual feast. Inside, you can choose to sit at traditional Western tables or experience popsans — traditional Tajik floor tables with cushioned seating that bring you closer to the authentic Central Asian tea house experience.

The menu features over 100 varieties of tea sourced from around the world, alongside a full food menu that blends Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and American influences. From fragrant chai and delicate jasmine teas to hearty lamb dishes and fresh salads, there's something for every palate. The Boulder Dushanbe Tea House is a place where art, culture, and cuisine intersect in the most beautiful way imaginable. It's about a 30-minute drive from Denver, and it's worth every minute of the journey.

#8 Biker Jim's

Address: 2148 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205 (Larimer Street)

Biker Jim's on Larimer Street is proof that the humble hot dog can be elevated to high art — and it all started with a guy who used to repossess cars for a living. Jim Pittenger, the founder of Biker Jim's, traded in his car repo career for a hot dog cart, and the rest is Denver culinary history. What began as a street cart serving exotic sausages has grown into a beloved brick-and-mortar restaurant that has earned the approval of none other than Anthony Bourdain, who featured Biker Jim's on his show and declared the food outstanding.

The menu at Biker Jim's reads like a wildlife safari. Forget your ordinary beef or pork hot dogs — here, you'll find sausages made from pheasant, rattlesnake, kangaroo, duck, elk, buffalo, yak, and wild boar, among others. Each exotic dog is grilled to perfection and served with creative toppings that range from classic mustard and onions to cream cheese and caramelized onions (the signature combination). The fried mac and cheese balls are a must-order side that has reached legendary status in Denver's food scene.

What makes Biker Jim's special goes beyond the exotic meats — it's the attitude, the story, and the experience. The restaurant has a laid-back, unpretentious vibe that makes everyone feel welcome, whether you're a local regular or a first-time visitor. The staff are passionate about their product and happy to guide newcomers through the menu. If you visit Denver and don't stop at Biker Jim's, you've missed one of the city's most iconic and genuinely unique culinary experiences. Come hungry, be adventurous, and try the rattlesnake.

#9 Dankest Corner in Denver

Address: Corner of Kalamath Street and 6th Avenue, Denver, CO

This one isn't a restaurant, a bar, or a museum — it's literally a street corner. But it might be the most uniquely Denver experience on this entire list. The intersection of Kalamath Street and 6th Avenue holds the unofficial title of the "Dankest Corner in Denver," and one whiff will tell you exactly why. This nondescript corner is surrounded on multiple sides by marijuana grow houses, and the combined aroma creates what is arguably the most potent concentration of cannabis smell anywhere in the city — and possibly the entire country.

Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, and Denver's cannabis culture has become a defining part of the city's identity. But while most visitors experience Denver's cannabis scene through dispensary visits and edible tastings, the Dankest Corner offers something different — it's a raw, unfiltered, and completely free sensory experience that you can only get by standing on this particular street corner and breathing deeply. The smell is unmistakable and remarkably powerful, especially on warm days when the grow operations are in full swing.

Is it a traditional tourist attraction? Absolutely not. Is it something you'll tell your friends about when you get home? Without a doubt. The Dankest Corner in Denver is the kind of gloriously weird, only-in-Denver experience that perfectly captures the city's spirit. It costs nothing to visit, takes only a few minutes to experience, and gives you bragging rights that no other city can match. Just stand on the corner, take a deep breath, and appreciate the unique aroma of legal cannabis culture at its most concentrated.

#10 Williams and Graham

Address: 3160 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211 (LoHi)

Williams and Graham is widely regarded as one of the best cocktail bars in America, and getting inside is half the fun. From the street, all you see is what appears to be a small, closed bookstore — complete with dusty volumes and a vintage cash register in the window. But step inside the bookstore, find the right spot on the bookshelf, and push — the shelf swings open to reveal a gorgeous, dimly lit speakeasy that feels like you've been transported back to the 1920s during Prohibition.

The pre-Prohibition theme is executed with meticulous attention to detail. Dark wood paneling, vintage glassware, candlelit tables, and bartenders in period-appropriate attire create an atmosphere of sophisticated mystery. The bar seats only 55 guests, which means the experience always feels intimate and exclusive. The cocktail menu is a masterclass in mixology, featuring both classic pre-Prohibition recipes and innovative house creations crafted with house-made syrups, fresh ingredients, and premium spirits. Every drink is a work of art, both visually and on the palate.

But Williams and Graham has a secret within a secret. Upstairs, you'll find "Decipher The Code," an escape room experience that adds another layer of adventure to your visit. After sipping world-class cocktails in a hidden speakeasy, you can test your puzzle-solving skills in an immersive game that perfectly complements the mystery of the venue. Williams and Graham proves that Denver's bar scene can compete with any city in the world. Make a reservation — this is one of Denver's worst-kept secrets, and tables fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

#11 Adrift Tiki Bar

Address: 218 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209 (South Broadway)

In a city known for craft breweries and whiskey bars, Adrift Tiki Bar stands out as a delightful tropical anomaly on South Broadway. Step inside and you're instantly transported from the Mile High City to a Hawaiian island paradise, complete with bamboo furniture, thatched roofing, tiki masks lining the walls, and the kind of colorful, umbrella-topped cocktails that make you forget you're 5,280 feet above sea level and nowhere near an ocean.

The cocktail menu at Adrift is a love letter to tiki culture, featuring an extensive selection of rum-based tropical drinks served in ceramic tiki mugs and decorated with fresh fruit, paper umbrellas, and the occasional flaming garnish. From classic Mai Tais and Zombies to inventive house originals that blend exotic fruit juices with premium rums, every drink is crafted with care and served with flair. The menu also includes a solid selection of tropical-inspired food that pairs perfectly with the cocktails — think coconut shrimp, island-style sliders, and poke bowls.

The outdoor patio is where Adrift really shines, especially on warm Denver evenings. Tiki torches flicker in the breeze, string lights create a warm glow, and the atmosphere is relaxed and convivial. It's the perfect spot for a group outing, a casual date, or just an escape from the ordinary. Adrift Tiki Bar proves that you don't need a plane ticket to experience island vibes — you just need to know where to look on South Broadway. It's one of Denver's most fun and unexpected hidden gems, and it's guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

#12 Denver Clock Tower

Address: 1601 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80202 (16th and Arapahoe)

The Denver Clock Tower at the corner of 16th and Arapahoe is one of those landmarks that thousands of people walk past every day without ever realizing they can go inside. Built in 1911, this elegant clock tower has been keeping time over downtown Denver for over a century, and it holds a secret that most tourists — and even many locals — don't know about: you can climb to the top and experience one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

The climb to the top of the clock tower is not for the faint of heart. A steep, narrow staircase winds its way up through the interior of the tower, and the passage gets tighter as you ascend. But the effort is rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Denver that stretches from the gleaming downtown skyline to the majestic Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. On a clear Colorado day, the visibility seems to stretch forever, and the perspective from the top of the tower gives you a completely different appreciation for the layout and beauty of the city.

What makes the Denver Clock Tower special is its accessibility and its intimacy. Unlike observation decks in major skyscrapers, the clock tower experience feels personal and unhurried. You're not sharing the view with hundreds of other tourists — it's just you, the clockwork mechanism, and that incredible vista. It's a perfect activity for a morning or afternoon when you want to see Denver from a perspective that most people never get to enjoy. Bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes for the climb, and prepare to be amazed.

#13 Tokyō Premium Bakery

Address: Denver, CO (check current location)

Tokyō Premium Bakery brings an authentic slice of Japanese baking culture to Denver, and if you've never experienced Japanese-style baked goods, you're in for a revelation. Japanese bakeries operate on a fundamentally different philosophy than their American counterparts — the breads are softer, the pastries are less aggressively sweet, and the attention to detail and presentation is elevated to an art form. Tokyō Premium Bakery embodies all of these principles and delivers an experience that feels like you've stepped into a bakery on a side street in Tokyo.

The star of the menu is the melon bread — a sweet bread roll with a thin cookie-crust topping that's crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. It's the kind of simple perfection that keeps people coming back week after week. The red bean pastries are another must-try, featuring smooth, sweet anko (red bean paste) encased in delicate, flaky dough. Matcha lovers will find paradise here, with matcha-flavored croissants, matcha cream puffs, and seasonal matcha specials that showcase the earthy, complex flavors of premium Japanese green tea.

Beyond the signature items, the bakery offers a rotating selection of Japanese-style breads, pastries, and desserts that are consistently excellent. The curry bread — a deep-fried bun filled with savory Japanese curry — is a savory counterpoint to the sweet offerings. Tokyō Premium Bakery is the kind of hidden gem that broadens your culinary horizons and introduces you to flavors and textures you didn't know you were missing. It's a must-visit for foodies and anyone who appreciates the art of baking at its finest.

#14 Grandpa's Burger Haven

Address: Denver, CO

In a city overflowing with trendy burger joints pushing wagyu patties and truffle aioli, Grandpa's Burger Haven is a refreshing throwback to a simpler time when a great burger meant fresh-ground beef, hand-pattied with care, cooked on a flat-top grill, and served with a side of genuine nostalgia. This classic retro diner channels the spirit of 1950s America, from the checkered floors and red vinyl booths to the vintage signage and jukebox tunes that set the mood for a meal that feels like a warm hug from your grandparents.

The burgers at Grandpa's Burger Haven are the real deal — hand-pattied daily from fresh-ground beef and cooked to order on a seasoned flat-top grill that gives each patty a perfect crust. The menu keeps things beautifully simple: classic cheeseburgers, double patties, bacon burgers, and a handful of specialty creations that never stray too far from the fundamentals. The malts and milkshakes are made the old-fashioned way with real ice cream and served in frosty metal tumblers, and the hand-cut fries are crispy, salty, and addictive.

What makes Grandpa's Burger Haven a hidden gem isn't just the food — it's the experience. The staff treats every customer like family, the portions are generous, and the prices are refreshingly reasonable by Denver standards. In a dining landscape dominated by Instagram-worthy plating and molecular gastronomy, Grandpa's Burger Haven reminds you that sometimes the best food is the simplest. It's the kind of place where you leave feeling full, happy, and genuinely satisfied. If you appreciate a perfect classic burger in a setting that feels like stepping back in time, this is your spot.

#15 The Hornet

Address: 76 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 (Broadway)

The Hornet on Broadway is one of those classic American bars that every great city needs but few actually have. It's not trying to be trendy, it's not pushing a concept, and it's not chasing Instagram followers — it's simply a damn good bar that serves strong drinks, attracts a lively crowd, and has been a staple of Denver's nightlife scene for years. The Hornet is where Denver goes when it wants to have a genuinely good time without any pretense.

The drink menu at The Hornet is straightforward and generous. This is not a place for $18 craft cocktails served in tiny coupes — it's a place where your whiskey pour is honest, your beer is cold, and your tab doesn't make you wince at the end of the night. The food menu features elevated bar classics that are consistently good, from loaded nachos and crispy chicken sandwiches to hearty entrees that satisfy after a long night out. The weekend brunch is a local favorite, drawing crowds who come for the bloody marys and stay for the huevos rancheros.

On weekends, The Hornet comes alive with an energy that's infectious. The crowd is a mix of Denver's diverse population — young professionals, neighborhood regulars, groups of friends celebrating, and couples on casual dates. The vibe is welcoming, unpretentious, and fun. The Hornet is the kind of bar where strangers become friends, where the night always goes later than planned, and where you always have a great time. It's not flashy, it's not hidden behind a bookshelf, and it doesn't need a gimmick — it's just a great Denver bar, and sometimes that's exactly what you need.

#16 Tocabe: An American Indian Eatery

Address: 3536 W 44th Ave, Denver, CO 80211

Tocabe is one of the most important and unique restaurants in Denver — and one of only a handful of Native American-owned fast-casual restaurants in the entire country. Founded with a mission to share Indigenous cuisine and culture, Tocabe offers a dining experience that is both delicious and deeply meaningful. The food here tells a story that stretches back thousands of years, and every bite connects you to culinary traditions that are too often overlooked in the American food landscape.

The star of the menu is the Indian taco, built on a foundation of golden, pillowy fry bread that is made fresh throughout the day. You can load your fry bread with seasoned bison, pulled pork, or beans, then top it with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and housemade salsa. The result is a hearty, satisfying, and utterly unique meal that you simply cannot get anywhere else. The menu also features rice bowls, salads, and rotating specials that incorporate indigenous-sourced ingredients like wild rice, blue corn, and bison — all prepared with care and respect for the traditions they represent.

What sets Tocabe apart from every other restaurant on this list is its cultural significance. Dining here isn't just about eating great food — it's about supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship, learning about Native American food traditions, and broadening your understanding of American cuisine beyond the European influences that dominate most menus. The staff are warm, welcoming, and happy to share the stories behind the dishes. If you visit only one restaurant from this list, make it Tocabe — the food is fantastic, the mission is inspiring, and the experience is one that will stay with you long after the last bite of fry bread.

#17 Denver Selfie Museum

Address: Denver, CO (check current location and hours)

The Denver Selfie Museum is a vibrant, interactive art space designed for one purpose: helping you take the most creative, colorful, and share-worthy photos you've ever captured. In an age where social media content is king, the Denver Selfie Museum has carved out a niche as the city's premier destination for immersive photo experiences, with dozens of individually designed installations that serve as backdrops for everything from casual selfies to professional photo shoots.

Each room and installation in the museum is a unique visual environment, featuring different themes, color palettes, and interactive elements. You might find yourself standing in a room filled floor-to-ceiling with artificial flowers, posing in front of a neon-lit wall of inspirational quotes, or playing in a ball pit designed for adults. The installations are regularly updated and rotated, which means repeat visits always offer something new. The lighting in each space is carefully designed to be flattering and photogenic, so you don't need to be a professional photographer to walk away with stunning images.

The Denver Selfie Museum is perfect for birthday parties, bachelorette celebrations, girls' nights out, family outings, or simply a fun afternoon activity when you want to do something different. It's also become a popular stop for content creators, influencers, and small business owners who need eye-catching visual content. Whether you're a social media enthusiast or someone who just wants a fun, lighthearted experience, the Denver Selfie Museum delivers pure joy in every room. Bring your phone, strike a pose, and let your creativity run wild.

#18 International Church of Cannabis

Address: 400 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209

The International Church of Cannabis is one of the most visually stunning and culturally provocative spaces in all of Denver. Housed in a beautiful former church built in 1910, the building has been transformed into a breathtaking art installation that celebrates creativity, community, and — yes — cannabis as a sacrament. But regardless of your feelings about cannabis, the art inside this building is genuinely world-class, and the experience of standing inside the main sanctuary is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The interior of the church features an incredible painted ceiling and walls created by artist Kenny Scharf and a collective of international muralists. Every surface is covered in psychedelic, kaleidoscopic artwork that swirls and flows in vivid colors, creating an immersive visual experience that feels like stepping inside a living painting. The scale and quality of the art is remarkable — this isn't stoner doodles on a wall, it's serious, ambitious, museum-quality work that happens to be housed in a former place of worship. The contrast between the traditional church architecture and the explosive, colorful murals creates a visual tension that is both beautiful and thought-provoking.

It's important to note that you absolutely do not need to consume cannabis to visit or appreciate the International Church of Cannabis. The art stands entirely on its own merits, and the building is open to visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs. Guided tours are available and provide fascinating context about the building's history, the art, and the philosophy behind the project. Whether you're an art lover, a curious traveler, or someone who appreciates spaces that challenge conventions, the International Church of Cannabis is a Denver hidden gem that you truly have to see to believe.

#19 Stranahan's Whiskey Distillery

Address: 200 S Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80223

Stranahan's holds a special place in Colorado's culinary and craft beverage history as the state's very first legal whiskey distillery. Founded in Denver, Stranahan's has been producing award-winning American single malt whiskey since its inception, and the distillery has become a pilgrimage site for whiskey enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The distillery experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of whiskey-making that is both educational and thoroughly enjoyable.

The distillery tours at Stranahan's are among the best in the city. Knowledgeable guides walk you through the entire whiskey-making process, from the locally sourced barley and pure Rocky Mountain water that form the foundation of every batch, to the copper pot stills where the magic happens, to the barrel aging rooms where time and Colorado's dramatic temperature swings work together to create the whiskey's distinctive character. The tours are intimate and informative, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about the nuances of single malt production.

Of course, the highlight of any visit is the tasting. Stranahan's offers guided tastings that let you sample their core expressions alongside limited-edition and seasonal releases that are often only available at the distillery. The tasting room itself is a warm, inviting space with an industrial-chic aesthetic that reflects Denver's character. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or someone who's never sipped a dram, the team at Stranahan's makes the experience accessible and fun. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Denver, and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for Colorado's thriving craft spirits scene — and probably a bottle or two for the road.

Explore Denver's Hidden Gems by Party Bus

The best way to experience Denver's 19 hidden gems is with a group of friends on a custom party bus tour. Imagine hitting The Buckhorn Exchange for exotic meats, rolling over to Williams and Graham for speakeasy cocktails, stopping at Biker Jim's for rattlesnake hot dogs, and finishing the night at Adrift Tiki Bar with tropical drinks and tiki torches — all without anyone having to drive.

Our party buses can create custom routes that hit 5-6 of these hidden gems in one unforgettable day or night. We know where they all are, we know the best times to visit, and we'll get you there in style with a sound system, LED lights, and a party atmosphere that makes the journey as fun as the destinations.

Book a Denver Hidden Gems Tour — discover the Denver that tourists never see.