Key Takeaways
- Students can showcase their campus and city pride by creating an itinerary that blends DU landmarks, nearby eateries, and Denver cultural highlights like Red Rocks or Washington Park.
- Planning low-key moments like a walk through campus or casual coffee shop meetups creates a relaxing way to bond with visiting family, while offering a glimpse into college life.
- These visits can be more than social—they’re opportunities for parents to better understand and support their student’s journey, making shared experiences even more impactful.
From brunch to ballgames, here’s your easy guide to making the most of your parents’ visit to the University of Denver.
With finals looming and commencement just around the corner, have you had a chance to plan what to do when your parents come to town?
If not, don’t panic. Instead of the usual Thursday night run to Crimson and Gold Tavern or Fat Shack, give your parents something a little more special to remember. Trust me—they’ll thank you later.
Here’s a list of fun, parent-approved activities to keep them entertained while you wrap up the quarter. Whether your family loves sports, art, live music, or great food, this guide has something for everyone.
Show off DU’s gorgeous campus
Give your parents a personal tour of campus. Show them your dorm or off-campus house—just try to clean it up a bit first. Wander by beautiful, lesser-known spots like the rose window at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts, the gear-shaped window at the Ritchie School of Engineering, or the peaceful garden outside the Daniel L. Ritchie Center. When it’s time to refuel, grab a bite at Fourth Story or host a casual get-together to introduce your family to your friends. Consider stopping by Magness Arena—even though hockey and basketball seasons have wrapped up, you can still visit the venues where the Pioneers make history.
Experience Denver’s sports and outdoor adventures
Catch a Colorado Rockies game at Coors Field, easily accessible from campus by light rail. Soak in the sun, enjoy a hot dog, and take in stunning mountain views. If your family loves the outdoors, Denver’s parks and trails offer plenty of options—rent bikes for a cruise along Cherry Creek Trail, rent kayaks or pedal boats in Washington Park, or stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens’ curated flora and seasonal art installations.
Explore museums and culture
Denver is a haven for art and history lovers. Visit the Clyfford Still Museum and Denver Art Museum for bold exhibits and stunning architecture, or head to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for a film in the planetarium. For an out-of-this world interactive art experience, drop by Meow Wolf Convergence Station. Baseball fans can swing by the quirky, alumni-owned National Ballpark Museum near Coors Field.
Be sure to stop by the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, named for Vance Kirkland—founder of DU’s School of Art and Art History. It features more than 30,000 works including pieces by DU artists and faculty.
Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to Denver’s most unique museums.
Catch a show at Red Rocks or a local venue
No visit is complete without a trip to the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Check the schedule and grab tickets early for an unforgettable concert or Film on the Rocks. Even if there’s no show, Red Rocks is perfect for hiking, yoga, or just soaking up the breathtaking views.
And if your family wants to see a show in the city, check out Mission Ballroom, the Ogden Theatre, the Bluebird Theater, or one of Denver’s countless concert halls.
Support DU alumni-owned businesses
Denver is full of places where DU grads have made their mark—so why not support a few during your visit? Stop by Tocabe, the only American Indian-owned and -operated restaurant in the Denver metro area specializing in Native American cuisine. Co-founded by DU alumni Ben Jacobs and Matt Chandra (both BA ’05), it’s a powerful blend of delicious food and community impact.
You can also explore the Stanley Marketplace, co-founded by Mark Shaker (MBA ’11), which houses over 50 local businesses and restaurants. For Tex-Mex with a long local legacy, visit Blue Bonnet Café, run by Gary Mobell (BA ’77, MT ’85). And if you’re in the mood for music, Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club—co-owned by Nicole Mattson (BSBA ’03, MBA ’12)—offers live jazz in an unforgettable setting.
Want more ideas? Check out our guide to Three DU Days in Denver.
Enjoy a memorable meal near campus
Whether you’re celebrating or just fueling up, Denver’s dining scene doesn’t disappoint. For brunch, try Jelly Café or Pete’s University Park Café. Looking for something close to campus with a bit of flair? Treat your family to dinner at Barolo Grill for refined Italian, or head downtown for El Taco de Mexico—a local favorite for unbeatable burritos and green chile.
Take your family on a mini-road trip from Denver
You’ve had time to explore the state—your family probably hasn’t. Take them up to Estes Park and drive through Rocky Mountain National Park to see mountain views and maybe spot an elk. Roxborough State Park has spectacular red rock-lined trails and fewer people. Or head to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs to walk around the huge red rock formations. It doesn’t take much planning, and it’s a good way to spend a day together outside the city.
Check out our student writer’s guide to a weekend getaway to Evergreen.
Make it a visit to remember
As their trip winds down, take a moment to thank your family for coming and supporting you. After all, they’re the reason you’re here—and spending a weekend together exploring Denver is a great way to celebrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are unique places to show parents on DU’s campus?
Check out the campus spaces dedicated to experiential learning and student success. The Daniels College of Business building includes The Hub, a suite of hands-on, interactive studio spaces for innovation and entrepreneurship. That includes the Create Studio (3D printers and more), Re/Make Studio (machines for creating and repairing textiles) and the Media Studio (video and podcast production). The Joy Burns Center’s Tuscan Ballroom features a full kitchen and wine cellar that hosts a number of impressive events.
What’s a good Denver activity for first-time visitors?
Visiting iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Denver Art Museum, or local favorites like Denver Central Market allows families to experience the city’s vibrant energy.
How can students make visits feel special without spending too much?
Hosting a meal in the dorm or arranging a walk around Washington Park are simple, memorable gestures. Time together matters more than elaborate plans.