91¶ÌÊÓƵ

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,ÌýDenver’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.Ìý

Explore museums and culture

Denver is a haven for art and history lovers. Visit the and 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 . 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 iconicÌýRed 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 ofÌýDenver’s countless concert halls.Ìý

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 toÌý.

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.Ìý has spectacular red rock-lined trails and fewer people. Or head toÌý in Colorado Springs to walk around the huge red rock formations. It doesn’t take much planning, and it’s a good way to spendÌýa day together outside the city.

Check out our student writer’sÌýguide to a weekend getaway to Evergreen.Ìý

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.