If you haven’t heard, Denver is one of the best cities around to spend the summer.
With generally mild temperatures (rarely reaching 90° F, even in July), an abundance of sunshine (300 days a year) and a multitude of bike trails (you get the idea), Denver is also one of the best cities to spend the summer pedaling around on two wheels.
Whether you rent a bike from one of the many bike-rental options, or bring your own, these spots are the perfect pit-stops — or final destinations — as you make your way around the Mile High City.
Comrade Brewing
Located just off the Cherry Creek Trail, Comrade is the perfect place to reload all those carbs you burned off on the ride over.
Featuring a rotating array of award-winning brews, including Gold Medal winners from the 2016 World Beer Cup, Comrade will have something cold to suit anyone’s taste.
With regular events and daily food trucks, it’s easy to spend the whole day at Comrade. But don’t forget to check out some of the other locations on this list, too.
Four Mile Historic Park
As the Cherry Creek Trail starts to head southeast towards the reservoir, take some time to check out the open-air museum at Four Mile Historic Park.
Perfect for families, Four Mile features living exhibits and a glimpse into what life was like on what used to be the outskirts of Denver, back when the Four Mile House was first built in 1859.
There’s even a bike repair station just outside and free compressed air if you need to make any tweaks before hitting the trail again.
Belleview Park
Not to be confused with the trail of the same name up in Westminster, hop on the Big Dry Creek trail — accessible off the Mary Carter Greenway Trail — and ride down to one of the best-known parks in Denver South.
The main attractions open every year on Memorial Day, the unofficial first day of Denver’s summer season. Kids will love the petting zoo and miniature train, and don’t forget swimsuits for the pirate-themed waterpark.
Grab some snacks or bring your own and enjoy the many other amenities of the park before you ride back home.
Confluence Park
Head downtown to where the Cherry Creek Trail meets the South Platte River Trail and spend some time at the newly renovated Confluence Park.
You can hang out and people watch, enjoy some snacks from local food carts, or go shopping for more cycling supplies at the flagship REI store. If you feel up to it, park the bike and practice your kayaking skills.
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Confluence Park really is a merging point — for rivers, people, bike trails and neighborhoods. Take your pick: Head back south to Cherry Creek and beyond, south to meet up with the Mary Carter Greenway, or north, all the way to Golden if you like.
Summer is one of the best times to visit or live Denver, and you won’t be alone when you decide to spend your day cruising around town on two wheels. These are just a few of the best spots to visit along the way. What are your favorites?