DenvervsMinneapolis
Can't decide between Denver and Minneapolis? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Denver
Denver, the Mile High City, sits at exactly one mile above sea level with the Rocky Mountains as its dramatic backdrop. A booming craft beer scene, world-class outdoor recreation, vibrant arts districts, and 300 days of annual sunshine make it a top US destination.
Known for
Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a cultural powerhouse on the Mississippi River, known for its vibrant arts scene, chain of lakes, and Scandinavian heritage. With the Walker Art Center, First Avenue music venue, and a bike-friendly cityscape, it punches well above its weight as a creative hub.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Denver offers Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Art Museum, Union Station
Minneapolis offers Minneapolis Institute of Art, Walker Art Center & Sculpture Garden, Chain of Lakes
Food & Dining
Denver is famous for its local dining scene
Minneapolis is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Denver offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Minneapolis offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
June to September
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 1°C
Summer: 28°C, Winter: -8°C
Top Attractions in Denver
- 1Red Rocks Amphitheatre
- 2Denver Art Museum
- 3Union Station
- 4Rocky Mountain National Park
- 5Larimer Square
- 6Denver Botanic Gardens
Top Attractions in Minneapolis
- 1Minneapolis Institute of Art
- 2Walker Art Center & Sculpture Garden
- 3Chain of Lakes
- 4First Avenue
- 5Mill City Museum
- 6Stone Arch Bridge
Denver is Popular With
Minneapolis is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Denver
- 1
The International Church of Cannabis
A historic church turned into a vibrant, psychedelic art space celebrating cannabis culture through light shows and music.
- 2
Casa Bonita
A legendary, over-the-top Mexican restaurant and entertainment complex featuring cliff divers, puppet shows, and Black Bart's Cave.
Hidden Gems in Minneapolis
- 1
The Witch's Hat Water Tower
A historic, fairy-tale water tower in Prospect Park offering one of the best panoramic views of the city.
- 2
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary
A 15-acre native plant preserve and the oldest public wildflower garden in the United States, located within Theodore Wirth Park.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Denver
LoDo (Lower Downtown)
Denver's historic heart, where 19th-century red-brick warehouses have been transformed into trendy lofts, acclaimed restaurants, and bustling nightlife.
RiNo (River North Art District)
The epicenter of Denver's creative explosion, this former industrial zone is now a canvas for massive street art murals.
Top Areas in Minneapolis
North Loop
Once a warehouse district, now Minneapolis's trendiest neighborhood with exposed brick, high-end boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants.
Uptown
A vibrant, youthful area centered around Hennepin and Lake Street, known for its indie shops, eclectic dining, and proximity to Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Denver
Budget in Minneapolis
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Denver
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Minneapolis
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Denver
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Denver
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Find cheap transport to Minneapolis
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Minneapolis
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Our Verdict
Both Denver and Minneapolis are incredible destinations. Denver excels in craft breweries and Rocky Mountains, while Minneapolis stands out for Prince / First Avenue and lakes.
Best destination for:
families
Denver
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