Although Englewood, Colorado, is centrally located in the Denver Metropolitan area, it manages to maintain a small-town appeal. This small city in Arapahoe County currently has a population of around 30,000 people. Its laid-back lifestyle, numerous parks and green spaces, mixed with proximity to the major city of Denver, make it a popular base for visitors to the area.
The extensive transit system makes it easy to get around Englewood and to other areas, but there really isn’t any need to go far as everything you’ll need is at your fingertips! Local businesses, historical landmarks, restaurants, coffee shops, art venues, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant downtown combined with stunning mountain scenery as a backdrop make Englewood a choice destination.
Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around Englewood, Colorado.
1. Devil’s Head Distillery
Source: Web-Betty / FlickrVisitors wishing to unwind upon arrival to Englewood can head over to the award-winning Devil’s Head Distillery and enjoy a refreshing drink in a relaxing atmosphere. Locally-made premium spirits, including the Oak Barrel Reserve Aquavit, native Colorado gin, and distilled Vodka made with malted barley, are just some of the popular choices.
In the tasting room, skilled bartenders are on-hand to mix up exclusive, hand-crafted cocktails using homemade syrup and freshly-squeezed juice.
2. Museum of Outdoor Arts
Source: Xnatedawgx / WikimediaThe Museum of Outdoor Arts is a combination of indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing local artistic talent. The outdoor portion of the museum features a garden devoted to fine art and unique architecture and sculptures. Inside the museum, you can admire a variety of galleries and studios, including the Cabinet of Curiosities.
3. Downtown Aquarium
Source: Kyle Spradley Photography / shutterstockVisitors of all ages take part in an incredible learning experience when they venture into Downtown Aquarium in Denver and explore the many underwater exhibits. There are more than 500 species of aquatic animals who make their homes in these exhibits, which showcase ecosystems from all over the planet, including North America, a rainforest, a coral lagoon, and a beach.
There’s also a Stingray touch tank, dive lounge, and 4D theater on site. At the Under the Sea Exhibit, stop for a while to watch the entertaining Mystic Mermaids show. When hunger strikes, enjoy a meal at the Aquarium Restaurant.
4. Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight
Source: EQRoy / shutterstockWings over the Rockies Exploration of Flight is a museum in one of America’s biggest airports. You can learn everything there is to know about aviation through various interactive displays that detail the past, present, and future of flight.
While you’re there, see some of the technology, jump into a flight simulator, and hear communications through the Centennial Tower. Some of the exhibits on-site include Boeing Blue Sky Gallery, Entrance Gallery, and Black Sky Gallery.
5. Pirates Cove Family Aquatic Center
Source: piratescovecolorado.comOn hot days, visitors can spend a day cooling off at Pirates Cove Family Fun Aquatic Center. This water park in Englewood is full of exciting water attractions, including a leisure pool, a dump bucket, a water slide, and a sandy, beach-like play area.
Young children love the Pirates Cove Spray Garden, but for a more relaxing experience, hop in a tube and head down the lazy river. Cabanas are also available for rent; each one features lounge chairs, a dining area, and charging outlets.
6. Earth Treks Climbing Fitness Englewood
Source: Earth Treks Englewood / FacebookAs one of the largest indoor climbing centers in the country, Earth Treks Climbing Fitness Englewood is 53,000 square feet of indoor space featuring high-tech climbing walls, roped areas, and bouldering. A large gym, gear shop, training equipment, locker rooms, and child-care services are also on-site.
7. Belleview Park
Source: englewoodco.govBelleview Park in Englewood is a great place to spend an afternoon with young children. There are many attractions on-site, including a playground, train ride, and a water park. Children especially love the petting zoo at the Children’s Farm, which is home to sheep, chickens, goats, and pigs.
8. Brew on Broadway
Source: APN Photography / shutterstockAlso known as The Bob, Brew on Broadway in Englewood combines specialty coffee and craft beer in a lively environment. Englewood-inspired craft beers, such as the Sunset Cider Ale, Alexander Airplane Amber, and Cinderella Twin Double IPA, are just some of the options available.
If coffee is more your thing, enjoy a variety of beverages such as Pablo’s Coffees, Teakoe Teas, and handmade Italian sodas. The menu features items that can be ordered in from local restaurants and eaten on-site. Baker Street Pretzels, pizza, and empanadas are some of the delicious snacks you can enjoy with your beverage.
The outdoor brew garden features a patio and is open to all ages. Sometimes, there’s live music at the brewery, and the complimentary Wi-Fi is always available.
9. Molly Brown House Museum
Source: Jim Lambert / shutterstockThe Molly Brown House Museum in Denver features guided tours of the home once owned by the Unsinkable Molly Brown of Titanic fame and her millionaire husband. A walk through this house tells the story of her many endeavors, including her devotion to activism and philanthropy.
The home is an important symbol of a significant era in Denver and features two permanent exhibits, including The House Museum, which features three floors filled with artifacts such as clothes, furnishings, artwork, and other items that are a reflection of life in the first half of the 20th century.
The James Joseph Brown & the People’s Quest for Gold is an exhibit in the Natural Resources Center featuring information and artifacts related to Molly Brown’s husband.
10. Unser Karting & Events
Source: Unser Karting & Events Denver / FacebookFor a thrilling day outdoors, visitors to Englewood head to Unser Karting & Events, where they can participate in go-karting at a professional-like level. There are separate categories of racing for various age groups, and anyone over the age of six can participate.
On-site facilities include a games area, picnic area, and covered seating area for spectators.
11. Water World
Source: Water World / FacebookNearby Federal Heights is home to the country’s largest water park. Water World features more than 50 attractions for all ages, including the Eagle River, Glacier Run, Mile High Flyer, Skyline Speed Slides, Thunder Bay Wave Pool, and Turbo Racer.
After an exciting day on the slides and rides, you can grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries that are on-site. Or if you are simply looking to relax away from the thrills, you can rent a cabana.
12. Hacienda Colorado
Source: Hacienda Colorado / FacebookMexican cuisine with an interesting twist: that’s what the unique Mountain Mex dishes served at Hacienda Colorado are described as. Skilled chefs put together meals that combine traditional Mexican favorites mixed with Rocky Mountain culinary traditions.
Green Chile-chicken tamales, shrimp enchiladas, and beef and bean burritos are some of the popular items on the menu, and the restaurant is also known for its signature sauces. You can choose to eat indoors or on the patio.
Extend your stay a little longer into the evening with a drink from one of the 40 tequila varieties that are available from the bar.
13. Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater
Source: TDC Photography / shutterstockIf you’re lucky, you may have the opportunity to catch a concert or other event at the Denver area’s largest outdoor amphitheater. Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater can host about 18,000 guests and is set on a sloping grassy area with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
Even if you don’t get to see a concert at this venue, you can still visit the attached Marjorie Park, which features outdoor sculptures and other artistic wonders.
14. Morrison Natural History Museum
Source: Jean-Luc Margot / WikimediaThe Morrison Natural History Museum in Morrison is where you can learn all about the science of Palaeontology from professionals in the field and through interactive tours and exhibits. You can go through the museum on your own or on a guided tour.
Along the way, learn about fossil discoveries in the region and view actual fossils that have been found in the area.
The Red Rocks and Dinosaur Ridge areas are local hotbeds for fossil finds, and you can learn more about these areas as well. On-site exhibits include the Jurassic Garden, T. Rex and Time, Cretaceous Colorado, and Ice Age. A gift shop is on-site.
15. Perfect Landing
Source: Centennial Airport / FacebookIf you love food and airplanes, Perfect Landing in the Centennial Airport in Englewood is the only restaurant in the state that allows you to enjoy a delicious meal while watching planes land and take off at the nearby airstrip.
The menu changes frequently, but diners can expect to find both classic and modern options such as lobster rolls and crab cake Benedict. Desserts, such as salted caramel cheesecake, are also available, and breakfast is served all day.