Things to Do in Denver

The National Student Media Convention (NSMC) is coming to Denver, October 22–25, 2025. With hundreds of sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, your days will be full of learning, creating, and connecting. When the sessions are finished, Denver has plenty of ways to relax, explore, and enjoy time with friends.

Here is your guide to enjoying the Mile High City outside of convention hours, with options that are walkable from the Embassy Suites and others that are better reached with an Uber.

Why Focus on After-Hours Fun?

Daytime belongs to NSMC. That is when you will gain new skills, meet professionals, and share ideas with other students. Evenings, mornings before the first session, and Saturday after the convention ends are the best times to see a bit of Denver.

Walkable from the Embassy Suites (Under 2 Miles)

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center, at 1420 Stout Street, is in one of the most convenient locations in the city. Many highlights are within a 5–20 minute walk.

• 16th Street Mall: Pedestrian-friendly street with shops, dining, and a free shuttle.
• LoDo and Union Station: Historic district and renovated train station, about a 14-minute walk.
• Larimer Square and Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Dining, shopping, theaters, and twinkling lights in the evenings.
• Denver Art Museum 

Major cultural attractions about 15–20 minutes away.

Evening ideas nearby

• Late-night food at Sam’s No. 3 or Voodoo Doughnut
• Street art walk in the RiNo Arts District, about a mile and a half from the hotel

Uber or Transit Recommended

Some attractions are outside the downtown area and easier to reach by car.

• Glow at the Gardens: Denver Botanic Gardens’ fall lights and pumpkin displays
• 13th Floor Haunted House: One of the country’s best-known haunted attractions
• Chatfield Farms Pumpkin Festival and Corn Maze: Seasonal event south of the city
• Golden Gate Canyon or Guanella Pass: Scenic drives for fall colors

Evening Options After Sessions

• Live music: Small venues in RiNo or larger shows at the Ogden Theatre or Fillmore Auditorium
• Food trucks at Civic Center EATS: Local food vendors (check evening schedules)
• Ghost tours: Guided walks that explore Denver’s haunted history
  Morning Options Before Sessions
• Coffee and murals in RiNo: Start your day with a latte and a short photo walk
• Sunrise at Confluence Park: Peaceful spot close to the hotel for fresh air and photos

Saturday Afternoon After the Convention

If you stay in Denver after the convention ends, consider:

• Visiting museums such as the Denver Art Museum or Clyfford Still Museum
• Exploring Chatfield Farms for one last fall festival
• Spending time at Union Station for food, shopping, and photos before heading home

Practical Tips

• Weather: October brings cool mornings and evenings with highs in the 60s. Bring layers.
• Altitude: Denver is a mile above sea level, so drink water and pace yourself.
• Transit: Use the free 16th Street MallRide shuttle for quick trips.
• Time management: Pick one or two activities for each evening so you can enjoy them without rushing.

Make the Most of NSMC

Your primary goal in Denver is the convention itself, with its sessions, speakers, and networking. Exploring the city after hours is a bonus that can make your trip even more memorable.

Spend your days in workshops, then step out to see a little of Denver by night. Together, both experiences will give you a convention to remember.

Union Station Image by Ildigo from Pixabay

Hamburger Image by kendallpools from Pixabay