Hidden Gems in Denver: Underrated Attractions You Need to Visit
Denver is known for its stunning mountain views, bustling food scene, and vibrant culture, but beyond the usual hotspots, the city hides some truly unique experiences. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, these underrated gems will give you a fresh perspective on the Mile High City.
1. Molly Brown House Museum
Step into the world of Margaret “Molly” Brown, the Titanic survivor, activist, and Denver socialite, at the Molly Brown House Museum. This beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion offers an intimate look at the life and legacy of one of Denver’s most influential women. Molly wasn’t just a first-class passenger on the Titanic—she was a fierce advocate for women’s rights, education, and social reform.
Guided tours take you through rooms filled with period furnishings, historic artifacts, and personal items, all while sharing stories about Molly’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to high society. Beyond her Titanic fame, you’ll learn about her efforts in labor rights, philanthropy, and the arts.
Located in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, this historic home offers more than just history—it hosts ghost tours, holiday events, and educational programs throughout the year. Whether you’re a history buff or simply love well-preserved architecture, the Molly Brown House Museum is a must-see.
Pro-Tip: Buy tickets online in advance, as tours often sell out!
2. Linger
Denver’s most deliciously eerie dining spot, Linger, was once the Olinger Mortuary—yes, a real funeral home! Now transformed into a lively, globally inspired restaurant, this unique eatery blends history, humor, and seriously good food.
Linger’s menu takes you on a culinary world tour, featuring Korean BBQ tacos, bao buns, Indian masala dosa, Moroccan lamb sliders, and more. Each dish is designed for sharing, making it the perfect spot for adventurous eaters. The craft cocktails are just as eclectic, with flavors inspired by international ingredients.
What makes Linger truly special (aside from its past) is its stunning rooftop patio with panoramic views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains. The décor subtly nods to its mortuary roots—vintage conveyor belts repurposed into tables, formaldehyde bottles as water carafes, and a retro hearse parked outside.
For a dining experience that’s equal parts quirky, delicious, and unforgettable, Linger (and especially the rooftop) is a must-visit in Denver.
3. Mural Tour Through RiNo
Denver’s RiNo Art District is a street art lover’s dream, bursting with massive murals, graffiti-style pieces, and colorful installations that cover entire buildings. A mural tour through RiNo is the best way to experience this ever-changing outdoor gallery, featuring work from both local and international artists.
You can explore on your own or take a guided tour, where you’ll learn about the artists, their inspirations, and the stories behind the art. The murals range from abstract and thought-provoking to playful and pop culture-inspired, with many created during the annual CRUSH Walls festival.
As you wander through RiNo’s vibrant streets, you’ll also discover breweries, coffee shops, and boutiques, making it easy to turn your art walk into a full-day experience. Whether you’re snapping Instagram-worthy photos or just soaking in the creativity, this neighborhood-sized canvas is one of Denver’s most unique attractions.
Pro-Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos!
4. The Oakwell Beer Spa
What if self-care involved craft beer? At The Oakwell Beer Spa, you can soak in a hops-infused herbal bath, relax in an infrared sauna, or sip local brews—all in one luxurious setting.
Located in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, this unique spa combines wellness and craft beer culture in a way you’ve probably never experienced before. The star attraction? Their beer therapy rooms, where you can soak in a private cedar tub filled with a blend of hops, barley, and herbs known for their skin-nourishing and stress-relieving benefits. Each room also features a personal infrared sauna and a rain shower for the ultimate relaxation.
Before or after your spa session, enjoy a drink in the cozy taproom, which features a rotating selection of Colorado craft beers, ciders, and wines. It’s the perfect place to unwind solo, with friends, or even as a unique date night spot.
5. Adrift Tiki Bar
Step into a tropical paradise right in the heart of Denver at Adrift Tiki Bar. This Polynesian-inspired escape offers exotic cocktails, island flavors, and an immersive atmosphere that feels worlds away from the Mile High City.
The bar’s interior is decked out with bamboo, tiki carvings, and dim lantern lighting, setting the perfect mood for sipping on a Scorpion Bowl, Painkiller, or classic Mai Tai. The cocktail menu leans heavily into rum-based creations, each served with artistic garnishes and dramatic presentations—some even arrive in flaming bowls!
The food menu features a mix of Hawaiian and Polynesian-inspired bites, including pork belly bao, coconut shrimp, and poke bowls. If you're visiting with a group, the large-format drinks are a fun way to share the experience. With its laid-back, island vibes and strong, flavorful drinks, Adrift is the perfect spot for an offbeat night out or a mini vacation without leaving Denver.
Pro-Tip: Don’t skip the flaming cocktails—they’re as fun as they are delicious!
6. Forney Museum of Transportation
Car lovers, train enthusiasts, and history buffs alike will love the Forney Museum of Transportation, a hidden gem showcasing an impressive collection of vintage vehicles.
From classic cars and motorcycles to massive locomotives and airplanes, this museum highlights over 600 artifacts spanning more than a century of transportation history. Some of the highlights include a Union Pacific “Big Boy” steam locomotive, one of the largest ever built, and a 1930s Rolls-Royce Phantom once owned by royalty. You’ll also find Amelia Earhart’s Kissel “Gold Bug”, antique bicycles, and even a vintage Denver streetcar.
Unlike traditional museums, Forney allows visitors to get up close to the exhibits, making it a great stop for families, history fans, or anyone with a love for beautifully crafted machines.
Pro-Tip: Plan for at least 1-2 hours—there’s more to see than you’d expect!
7. Meow Wolf: Convergence Station
Step into another dimension at Meow Wolf Denver – Convergence Station, an immersive, mind-bending art experience that blends storytelling, interactive exhibits, and futuristic design. Spanning four floors and 90,000 square feet, this surreal wonderland transports visitors through vibrant, otherworldly landscapes created by over 300 artists.
Unlike a typical museum, Meow Wolf is a fully explorable, hands-on experience. As you wander through glowing tunnels, alien marketplaces, and dreamlike cityscapes, you’ll uncover a mystery-filled narrative connecting four distinct realms. Each turn offers hidden doors, secret passageways, and mind-warping installations, making every visit unique.
The experience is part art exhibit, part sci-fi adventure, with an optional storyline to uncover. Whether you dive deep into the lore or simply enjoy the trippy visuals and interactive elements, there’s something for everyone—from families to art lovers to thrill-seekers.
Pro-tip: Be sure to interact with the cast (staff) members - they will undoubtedly enrich your experience through this psychedelic playground.
8. Denver Selfie Museum
If you love bright colors, interactive art, and Instagram-worthy backdrops, the Denver Selfie Museum is a must-visit. This playful, photo-friendly space is packed with themed rooms and unique sets designed for taking the perfect selfie.
Each exhibit offers a different aesthetic, from neon-lit tunnels and oversized props to surreal, mind-bending illusions. Whether you want to pose inside a retro diner, float in a room of pastel clouds, or take a “money bath” in a cash-filled tub, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities.
Unlike traditional museums, this space is fully interactive—you’re encouraged to touch, pose, and play with the installations. It’s a great spot for a fun day out with friends, a date, or even a solo photo shoot.
Pro-Tip: Wear bright, solid colors to make your photos pop!
Discover Denver’s Best-Kept Secrets
Denver is packed with unique experiences, from immersive art adventures at Meow Wolf to historic deep dives at the Molly Brown House and tiki-inspired escapes at Adrift. Whether you're a longtime local or a newcomer looking to explore, this city offers something for every vibe—art, history, nightlife, and relaxation all in one.
But let’s be real—exploring a city is even better when it feels like home. If you're thinking about making Denver your home base (or just upgrading your current one), Blue Pebble Homes is here to help. With our one-stop-shop approach to real estate and mortgages, we make moving to (or within) Denver seamless, saving you time and money along the way.
So go ahead—sip that craft beer, soak in that mural tour, and enjoy every corner of this incredible city. When you’re ready to plant roots, we’ll be here to help you find the perfect home to match your lifestyle.