Things to do Near Gratitude Village

Living on Denver’s vibrant west side means the best of both worlds is right at your doorstep. From the cultural pulse of downtown—where the Denver Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class theater and Red Rocks Amphitheater delivers unforgettable concerts under the stars—to the boundless beauty of Colorado’s outdoors, there’s always something to discover. More than 57,000 acres of nearby open space offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, while a quick drive west places you in the heart of the Rockies for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing adventures. Whether you're drawn to the arts, the mountains, or simply a peaceful walk in nature, life near Gratitude Village keeps you connected to the things that make Colorado extraordinary.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre & Park

Sheltered between majestic red sandstone formations, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is more than a world-renowned concert venue—it’s a natural wonder and community gathering place. Music lovers come from all over the globe to experience unforgettable performances under the stars, where the acoustics are as breathtaking as the panoramic views. But the magic of Red Rocks extends well beyond showtime. The surrounding park offers miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, all set against a backdrop that feels both ancient and alive. Locals flock here at sunrise for group yoga sessions on the stage and challenge themselves with the iconic “Red Rocks stairs” workout. Just 25 minutes from Gratitude Village, it’s a place where music, movement, and nature harmonize—an iconic slice of Colorado life.

Open Space Hiking & Biking

One of the greatest gifts of living at Gratitude Village is the easy access to Colorado’s vast and beautifully preserved open spaces. Jefferson County Open Space, a regional gem, has protected over 57,000 acres of land and developed 27 open space parks with more than 269 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. To the north, Boulder County boasts an impressive 67,000 acres of open space, over half of which is accessible to the public. Its extensive trail network and outdoor recreation programs invite exploration and connection with the land year-round. Meanwhile, Broomfield’s 8,000 acres of open space and trails create another pocket of tranquility on Denver’s west side, where prairie, wetlands, and wildlife thrive.

Located in the heart of downtown, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is a crown jewel of the city’s cultural scene—and one of the largest performing arts centers in the country. Spanning four city blocks and 12 acres, the complex houses ten performance venues and more than 10,000 seats, all linked by an 80-foot-tall glass canopy that creates a striking urban promenade. From Broadway blockbusters and innovative new plays to symphonies, ballets, and immersive theater experiences, the DCPA offers something for every artistic palate. Just a short drive or light rail ride from Gratitude Village, this cultural hub brings world-class performances within easy reach of home. The DCPA is also deeply invested in arts education and community engagement, hosting youth programs, matinees and affordable ticket initiatives that ensure access for all.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Winter Sports in the Rockies

In Colorado, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a way of life. Whether you're an expert carving black diamonds or a beginner finding your balance on the bunny slopes, the Rocky Mountains offer a snow-filled playground for all ages and abilities. With 28 ski resorts scattered across the state—many just a 1–2 hour drive from Gratitude Village—you’ll have easy access to world-class skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Favorites like Loveland, Eldora, and Winter Park are close enough for day trips, while iconic destinations like Breckenridge, Vail, and Keystone make unforgettable weekend getaways. Living at Gratitude Village means spontaneous powder days are always an option. Families often spend their winter weekends in the mountains, building snow forts, taking ski lessons, or simply soaking in the fresh alpine air. And for those who prefer a quieter pace, snowshoe trails and cozy mountain lodges offer a perfect way to enjoy the stillness and beauty of a Colorado winter.

Denver Zoo

Boulder

A beloved destination for families and wildlife lovers alike, the Denver Zoo is an 80-acre oasis of learning, conservation, and animal encounters nestled in the heart of City Park. Founded in 1896 with the donation of a single orphaned black bear, the Zoo has grown into one of the most progressive zoological institutions in the country. It made history with the creation of Bear Mountain—the first naturalistic animal enclosure in the U.S.—marking a bold shift from cages to habitat-inspired design that honors the dignity of the animals it shelters.

Today, the Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals representing 450 species from around the globe, and it's deeply involved in wildlife conservation both locally and internationally. Visitors can wander winding paths through immersive exhibits, attend daily animal encounters and feedings, or take part in hands-on educational programs for all ages. For Gratitude Village families, the Zoo is more than just a fun outing—it’s a place to spark curiosity, foster compassion for all living beings, and deepen our connection to the natural world.

Just 30 minutes northwest of Denver, nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness. Home to the University of Colorado, this progressive college town is a hub for creativity, sustainability, and lifelong learning. The striking Flatirons provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking, climbing, and picnicking, while Eldorado Canyon State Park—known for its sheer sandstone cliffs—is a haven for rock climbers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Stroll through the historic Pearl Street Mall, a lively, pedestrian-only street filled with shops, cafés, buskers, and galleries. Dive into art and innovation at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, or explore the cosmos at the Fiske Planetarium and natural history at CU Boulder’s Museum of Natural History. Whether you're taking a scenic walk along Boulder Creek, savoring a farm-to-table meal, or catching a lecture on sustainability, Boulder invites curiosity and connection at every turn.

Downtown Aquarium

A splash of wonder in the heart of the city, Denver’s Downtown Aquarium combines marine magic, hands-on adventure, and family-friendly dining all under one roof. With more than one million gallons of exhibits, the Aquarium Adventure invites visitors to journey through underwater worlds—from colorful coral reefs and tropical rainforests to shipwrecks and sunken temples. Sharks, rays, otters, and even a tiger are part of the experience, creating a sense of awe and discovery for kids and adults alike. One of the highlights is the Aquarium Restaurant, where guests dine beside a mesmerizing 150,000-gallon tank teeming with sea life. The Aquarium also features interactive experiences like stingray touch tanks, mermaid shows, and educational programs that bring ocean conservation to life.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Larimer Square

Just under two hours from Gratitude Village lies one of Colorado’s crown jewels—Rocky Mountain National Park, a breathtaking expanse of alpine wilderness encompassing 415 square miles of rugged beauty. From wildflower-filled meadows in the montane zone to glassy alpine lakes and soaring peaks that scrape the sky, every turn in the trail offers a moment of awe. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from gentle family-friendly strolls to challenging summit climbs, there’s truly something for every level of explorer. Wildlife is abundant here—you might spot elk grazing in Moraine Park, marmots sunning on a boulder, or a majestic moose wading through a stream. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., offers sweeping panoramic views that are especially stunning during fall foliage or a summer wildflower bloom. Whether you’re coming for a quiet day hike, a backcountry camping trip, or simply to breathe in the high-altitude air, the park provides a deeply renewing connection to the natural world.

Where Denver began, Larimer Square still beats at the heart of the city—an iconic block where past and present meet beneath strings of twinkling lights. Once the site of Denver’s first residence, first commercial district, and first city hall, this lovingly preserved historic district is now a lively mix of culture, cuisine, and creativity. Named after General William Larimer, the city’s founder, the square has evolved from pioneer outpost to one of the most beloved destinations in Colorado.

Today, Larimer Square is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, lined with independent boutiques, wine bars, artisan shops, and chef-driven restaurants. Savor modern Italian at Osteria Marco, known for its house-cured meats and cozy cellar vibe, or indulge in seasonal Colorado cuisine at Rioja, a James Beard award-winning favorite. Whether you’re meeting friends for a drink, enjoying a romantic date night, or exploring Denver’s rich architectural heritage, Larimer Square is the perfect spot for a night out, a weekend stroll, or simply soaking in the vibrant spirit of the city.

And this is just scratching the surface!