AVMA News

Top 10 activities to do in Denver during AVMA Convention 2023

Whether you’re looking to have a relaxing nature walk, visit historic landmarks, or check out local beers, Denver offers something for everyone. Here are 10 exciting attractions to experience while you’re in town for AVMA Convention 2023, taking place July 14-18 at the Colorado Convention Center.

Red Rocks
While in town for AVMA Convention 2023, one recommended side trip for attendees is to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, which is about a 15-minute drive from Denver. Two hiking trails follow along a stunning natural landscape that allow for some of the best views of the city.
  1. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
    You don’t want to miss America’s best amphitheater, according to Rolling Stone magazine. This National Historic Landmark is a one-of-a-kind sandstone marvel. Just 15 miles west of Denver, Red Rocks has two hiking trails that provide access to the area’s best natural landscape and panoramic views of the city and beyond. This open-air theater also hosts a yoga workout from 7-8 a.m. for eight select Saturdays during the summer, including July 15. Runners and exercise groups also descend on the venue’s seats and steps when events are not taking place. Be sure to check the park’s hours for information.
  2. Coors Field
    Visit the home of the Colorado Rockies in Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood for a memorable baseball game. The Rockies have a three-game homestand against the New York Yankees July 14-16. Or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the ballpark. Coors Field has its very own brewery, the Sandlot, that is open year-round.
  3. Meow Wolf
    Prepare to have your mind blown at Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station, a four-story immersive art experience that transport audiences of all ages into fantastic realms of story and exploration. With more than 70 interactive rooms and installations, this psychedelic feast for the senses is a must see. 
  4. Denver Botanic Gardens
    Explore a 23-acre oasis in the middle of the city at Denver Botanic Gardens. There are 45 different gardens and the largest single structure tropical conservatory in the U.S. Meditate in the Japanese Garden, venture through the Rock Alpine Garden, and experience the whimsical Mordecai Children’s Garden.
  5. The Beer Spa
    If you’re looking for a relaxing and unique way to unwind, you’ll want to book an appointment at the Beer Spa. The spa menu features a 90-minute Beer Therapy Room, where patrons can enjoy a private beer bath—a cedar hydrotherapy tub filled with a blend of hops, barley, and herbs—an infrared sauna, and rain shower. Other amenities include zero gravity massage chairs and a taproom.
  6. Confluence Park
    This river park, named for its location at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, was founded as a gold mining camp in 1858. It has since become one of the city’s most well-known outdoor settings. Enjoy a picnic and watch kayakers in the whitewater park or go for a quick dip to cool off. You can also rent a bicycle and explore Denver’s nearby bike trail network.
  7. Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA)
    Prepare to be entertained at the DCPA. This nonprofit organization offers off-Broadway shows, Tony-winning theatre, cabaret performances, and more. During the summer, “Miss Rhythm: The Legend of Ruth Brown” will be playing in the Garner Galleria Theatre. This intimate cabaret experience explores the life and times of R&B legend Ruth Brown through story and song, accompanied by a five-piece jazz band. The singer is best known for her hits “Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean,” “Teardrops from My Eyes” and “5-10-15 Hours.”
  8. River North (RiNo) Art District
    This neighborhood, located about 2 miles northeast of the convention center, is bursting with creativity. Historic industrial buildings have been transformed into restaurants, galleries, and working studios. RiNo is home to several unique businesses from creators such as visual artists and designers to distillers, winemakers, and coffee roasters.
  9. Grizzly Rose
    This famous honky-tonk has held performances from all the biggest names in country. The venue has live music and specials five nights a week, line dancing, and two mechanical bulls. Plus, there’s no shortage of delicious barbeque. 
  10.  Rocky Mountain National Park
    The elevation range in Rocky Mountain National Park spans from below 8,000 feet to over 14,000 feet above sea level, meaning there are many diverse ecosystems found within the park.  Visitors can hike, camp, fish, bike, go horseback riding and take scenic drives.

Alumni events, concert, and more happening at convention

Don’t forget to check out the special events happening at AVMA Convention 2023. These kick off with alumni receptions for various veterinary colleges starting at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 14, at locations around Denver.

On Saturday, both the Technician Appreciation and Young Professionals events are happening from 6-7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 15, at Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row. This American Gastropub is located in Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood. Attendees can enjoy the full menu along with early access to Live Life, Love All, from 7-9 p.m. The event is all about celebrating the beautiful things that make us different and the profession that brings us together.

Finally, this year’s AVMA Concert headliner is Ne-Yo. The three-time Grammy award winner will perform from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Sunday, at the Fillmore Auditorium, including his singles singes “Closer,” “Miss Independent,” and “Let Me Love You.” The concert is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim.