The Mile High City
Living in Denver, Colorado
The University of Colorado Denver is nestled in the heart of downtown Denver—Colorado’s capital and biggest city. Denver is known for its 300 days of sunshine, innovation and tech startups, local shops and restaurants, a unique music and arts scene, and of course its proximity to the Rocky Mountains—and all the opportunities for outdoor recreation that come along with them. If you’re seeking exciting career and research opportunities in a well-rounded city with a high quality of life, CU Denver has you covered.
Rocky Mountain National Park is located approximately 55 miles northwest of Denver.
The Great Outdoors
The Rocky Mountains are just a short drive west of Denver. From rock climbing, hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and mountain biking in the summer to skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter, living in Denver means you can access all the beautiful Rocky Mountains have to offer. Plus, don’t forget all the scenic drives and lookout points along the way.
Music Scene
Most CU Denver students would say that one of their favorite things to do is experience the city’s vibrant music scene. From state-of-the-art music venues to local neighborhood stages, you are sure to find your own favorite spot. Catch a show at the industrial Mission Ballroom, experience music at the historic Fillmore Auditorium, catch a free show at the Levitt Pavilion, or get out to the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre—one of the world’s most iconic concert venues.
Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado is approximately 30 minutes from CU Denver.
The Dancers public sculpture was permanently installed in front of the Denver Performing Arts Complex in 2003, across Speer from the Auraria Campus.
Entertainment District
With its world-class museums and unique art venues, Denver has a thriving cultural and entertainment scene right on the doorstep of our campus. From local comedy and theater to world-class galleries, arts districts, and multiple first Friday art walks, the Mile High City offers plenty to inspire your creative side. CU Denver students also enjoy discounted entry to major museums such as the Denver Art Museum boutique galleries, and even touring performances at the Denver Center for Performing Arts.
Food and Drink
Quickly becoming a foodie’s favorite destination—Denver’s food scene has been expanding with more farm-to-table restaurants, global cuisines, fine dining, and trendy new eateries and food halls.
Larimer Square in Denver’s urban shopping and dining district.
Street Art
Denver is home to a bustling creative community—that’s why you’ll find beautiful and compelling artworks on nearly every corner. While walking the city, you’re sure to stumble across thought-provoking murals, graffiti, and street art on alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, and more. Our own campus features custom murals from one of our own alums! Denver sidewalks showcase some amazing sculptures, too. Get out and explore the city and see what hidden artistic treasure you can find.
This mural at CU Denver was painted by Detour, the internationally acclaimed muralist and two-time CU Denver alum.
City Park in Denver, Colorado features picnic spots, playgrounds, and lakeside trails.
Parks & Recreation
The mountains aren’t the only escape into nature around the Mile High City. Denver is known for more than 5,000 acres of parks right here in the city. No matter where you are, you’re likely to be only a few steps away from one of over 200 lush and relaxing green spaces in the city. With over 250 miles of on-street bike lanes, paths, and trails, Denver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.
Sports Center
From football and baseball to lacrosse, soccer, and hockey, Denver offers sports fans numerous opportunities any time of year to watch the seven professional teams that call Denver home. The Mile High City has world-class stadiums, arenas, and indoor and outdoor facilities, including the home fields of the Avalanche, Broncos, Rockies, and Nuggets. All within a short walk or bike ride from campus.
Coors Field, a baseball stadium in downtown Denver, is the home field of Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies.
RTD is dedicated to serving the public and providing for the transportation needs of over 3 million people located within 2,342 square miles.
Public Transportation
With more than 170 bus routes, 12 rail lines, and many specialty services, Denver’s public transportation makes it easy to get around town. You’ll find many light rail stations within minutes of campus—giving you quick and direct access to any place you want to go.
