Things can get quirky when you're one mile above sea level. And that might be why Denver, also known as the Mile High City, has so such a mix of interesting, beautiful, and funky Instagrammable spots. The city is known for its excellent park system, breweries, museums, and easy access to the Rocky Mountains: Naturally, it's chock full of photo ops. So, on your next trip to Denver, let these spots be the canvas for your Instagram feed.
In this article, we'll cover the top ten best photo spots in Denver.
1. "National Velvet" Art Installation
The National Velvet public sculpture in downtown Denver gives new meaning to the term modern art. It looks like a giant stack of kidney beans formed into the shape of an obelisk overlooking the I-25 highway. No one knows exactly what contemporary artist John McEnroe (not to be confused with the tennis player) intended to express by making this sculpture. But that hasn't stopped Denverites from coming up with theories.
Despite the obscurity of its meaning, the National Velvet sculpture is a sight to behold. And that's why it's on this list of Denver's top ten best photo spots. So on your next visit, check this site out and snap a few pics while you're at it. At the very least, it'll certainly get your Instagram followers scratching their heads.
2. Red Rocks Amphitheater
You don't have to travel to Greece to see an outdoor amphitheater built into the mountains. Instead, you only need to travel about ten miles west of downtown Denver!
Red Rocks Amphitheater is a spectacular outdoor venue situated between two sandstone monoliths. The striking views from the theater, plus the unique red color of the rocks it's built into, make it one of the best photo spots in Denver.
3. Denver's Skyline from City Park
City Park in Denver arguably has one of the best views of the city skyline – one that makes for incredible photos. As you walk along the park's trails, from east to west, you can see the panorama that reaches from Mt. Evans all the way across to downtown Denver's skyscrapers reflecting off the large City Park Lake. No matter day or night, Denver's skyline from City Park promises a captivating view that will leave you awed and inspired by this magnificent metropolitan landscape.
4. The "Love This City" Mural
Denver's colorful "Love This City" mural is an emblem of the city and has become a beacon of the community. Created by Denver-based artist Pat Milbery, the mural on Larimer Street captures the spirit and culture of Denver with its vivid colors and futuristic design. It proudly reflects the art scene that so energizes Denver. And it's an excellent backdrop for a Denver-centric Instagram photoshoot!
Viewers of Milbery's art will see "Love This City" as a reflection of their dreams for what it means to be part of this beloved American destination.
5. Big Blue Bear
Big Blue Bear is one of the most iconic landmarks and one of the best photo spots in Denver. This 40-foot-tall blue bear peeks its head into the Colorado Convention Center to inspire awe and wonder in onlookers. If not only for novelty, Big Blue Bear is one feature of Denver you won't want to miss.
6. Denver International Airport Murals
Are you transiting through Denver International Airport on your next trip to the Mile High City? You may not want to rush through it without taking some photos.
DIA is famous for its creepy murals that have become the target of wild conspiracy theories. The murals have generated so much buzz that even the airport has joined in on the fun. It addresses (and then debunks) each claim in an official "Conspiracies" memo.
So next time you're in DIA, freak your followers out with a Denver murals photoshoot!
7. Union Station
The historic Union Station is one of the most recognizable structures in Denver. Originally constructed in 1881, Union Station has become an incredible destination for locals and tourists, hosting more than just trains. Visitors can enjoy excellent restaurants, retail shops, and galleries. It's also an ideal location for Instagram photos, as the exterior of the building is just as charming as the interior. And it's a great way to say, "I'm in Denver!" without saying it.
8. Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the best photo spots in Denver, especially during Spring and Summer. Its unique mix of plants from all over the world makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in capturing some botanical photos. The gardens offer a little something for everyone, from winding paths to vibrant blooms.
9. Denver Aquarium
Exploring the sights and sounds of the Denver Aquarium with a camera in hand is an experience like no other. While there, you can take a snapshot of your family posing with live sea stars, share the beauty of a colorful coral reef with your friends, or get that perfect picture of jellyfish ethereally drifting. There's even an opportunity for budding underwater photographers to take pics of fish swimming overhead through one of the underwater viewing tunnels. Wherever you choose to shoot, these Instagrammable moments at the Denver Aquarium will make an impression on your feed!
10. International Church of Cannabis
Apparently, the nickname Mile High City has more than one meaning: Denver is home to the world's only official International Church of Cannabis. This psychedelic social center is located in a former Lutheran Church in the Washington Park West neighborhood of Denver. And it's worth a visit for the Instagram photos alone.
The walls and ceiling of the church are painted in kaleidoscopic rainbow colors. It's certainly a sight to behold. Usually, the church is open to the public. However, at times when it's closed, its members celebrate the "sacrament of cannabis." We weren't kidding when we said Denver has its quirky spots!
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