If the word ‘vacation’ doesn’t conjure images of you relaxing on the beach with a drink in your hand, then you’ll likely want to plan a trip that boasts more exciting amenities. One of the best destinations for adventurers is Denver, where exhilarating opportunities abound. Whether you want to zip-line across mountains or hike through canyons, you’ll get your fill of excitement when embarking on a trip to this popular Colorado city. So, if you’re looking for adrenaline-packed things to do in Denver, this is the ultimate list for you!

Zip Across the Rocky Mountains at Top Speeds

Some of the best vacations turn out to be the ones requiring the least amount of planning, especially for those who like to follow their sense of adventure in lieu of a guidebook. To fulfill your need for excitement when visiting Denver, embark on a zipline tour through the Rocky Mountains. The many tours on offer, like those provided by the highly rated Denver Adventures, are not for the faint of heart, as you’ll cover over 6,000 feet of aerial exploration and reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour through some stretches! Tours approximately three hours, during which time you’ll sweep through the sky and cover the longest ziplines available in the state.

While you’re ziplining through the Rocky Mountains, you’ll be suspended over 250 feet off the ground. You’ll need to dress comfortably and bring layers, since the temperatures in the air tend to be cooler than the temperatures on the ground. Closed-toe shoes are a requirement, but the clothing you wear is based on your preference.

It’s probably best to leave your kids at home if they’re afraid of heights. But, if your children are more adventurous, then this is an exhilarating tour the whole family can enjoy and reminisce about for years to come.

Traverse Rocky Mountain National Park on Foot

Travelers who prefer to explore on foot will be enamored with hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. Get your heart rate going as you traverse alpine passes, hike across challenging terrain, and keep your eyes peeled for black bears on the horizon. A day-long trek will take you through historic Colorado towns where you’ll have an opportunity to learn more about the area. If you opt for a guided tour, you can soak in as much knowledge from your guide while you make your way through the tree line and out on to the banks of nearby alpine lakes.

Hiking is the perfect experience for those who like to become more immersed in their surroundings. Instead of zipping across the wildlife, you’re given an opportunity to come face-to-face with elk, deer, and moose. Hiking can be family-friendly too, and kids will love being able to look for eagles swooping by in the sky while enjoying a picnic lunch in the great outdoors.

Walk, Climb, or Sled at Breckenridge Mountain

To indulge your sense of escapism, make your way to Breckenridge Mountain. There’s an assortment of thrilling activities for visitors. You can start with a visit to the famous Red Rock Amphitheater, where you’ll be able to soak in the surrounding views that make this venue unique. After you’ve spent time walking up and down the carved steps of the amphitheater, you can spend some time in the town of Breckenridge.

Sledding and hiking are available at Breckenridge Mountain, so explore this breathtaking scenery with as much or as little thrill as you prefer. Looking for an aerial view of the mountain? Take a journey on a gondola ride and explore the area from a new vantage point.

In addition to the Red Rock Amphitheater and Breckenridge Mountain, you can also check out nearby Idaho Springs, Sapphire Point Overlook, Clear Creek Canyon, and select destinations throughout the Colorado wilderness.

Fasten Your Seatbelt for Exciting Denver Experiences

Do you have a need for speed that wasn’t satiated as your flights to Denver took off? Buckle up and head over to Colorado Canyon for a thrilling driving experience. Perfect for car lovers and racing enthusiasts, these hour-long driving routes pass in the blink of an eye. Visitors are given access to flashy sportscars that they’ll navigate through the twisting canyon roads just outside of Denver. Boasting over 200 hairpin turns, this experience will thrill you like no other. Over the course of the hour, you’ll travel over 25 miles and bask in the glory of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking for something more family-friendly, Denver is bursting with indoor go-kart racing tracks. Loop around with your kids for a few hours before settling in at a nearby restaurant for dinner and picturesque mountain views.

Warm Your Spirits with a Denver Brewery Tour

For those seeking slower adventures, embark on one of the numerous brewery tours offered throughout the Denver area. These exclusive tours allow you to explore the breweries themselves where you’ll have the opportunity to see how the drinks are crafted. Once the tour concludes, you and your friends will be able to bask in the natural glory of the city while sipping free beverages. Most breweries offer an array of delectable food options, which makes this the perfect way to unwind and enjoy a night out in this exhilarating city.

Depending on your drink of choice, additional tours may prove more satisfactory. Denver is renowned for its eclectic array of wine, whiskey, and food tours that are sure to please everyone on your trip.