#1 in Closing the Earnings Gap
Over the past decade, Denver has reduced the median earnings gap for people of color more than any other large city in the country. (Brookings Institution)
The Mile High City
Living in Denver, Colorado
The University of Colorado Denver is nestled in the heart of downtown Denver—Colorado’s capital and biggest city. Also known as the Mile High City, Denver is known for its 300 days of sunshine, high-tech startups, local shops and restaurants, a unique music and arts scene, and of course its proximity to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. You’re sure to find something you love in one of the country’s fastest growing cities, and we are located in the center of it all.
#2 Best Place to Live
Year-round activities and an excellent quality of life make Denver and nearby Boulder the two best places to live. (U.S. News & World Report)
#3 Best Job Market
Booming industries give Denver one of the country's best job markets. (Wall Street Journal)
Rocky Mountain National Park is located approximately 55 miles northwest of Denver.
The Great Outdoors
The Rocky Mountains are just a short drive west of Denver. From rock climbing, hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and mountain biking in the summer to skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter—living in Denver will bring you direct access to all the beautiful Rocky Mountains have to offer. Plus, don’t forget all the scenic drives and lookout points along the way.
Music Scene
Most CU Denver students would say that one of their favorite things to do is experience the city’s vibrant music scene. From state-of-the-art music venues to local neighborhood stages, you are sure to find your own favorite spot. Catch a show at the industrial Mission Ballroom, experience music at the historic Fillmore Auditorium, or get out to the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre—one of the world’s most iconic concert venues.
Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado approximately 30 min drive from CU Denver.
The Dancers public sculpture was permanently installed in front of the Denver Performing Arts Complex in 2003.
Entertainment District
With its world-class museums and unique art venues, Denver has a thriving cultural and entertainment district right on the doorstep of our campus. Our city lives and breathes art, and CU Denver students enjoy discounted entry to major museums such as the Denver Art Museum boutique galleries, and even touring performances at the Denver Center for Performing Arts.
Food & Drink
Quickly becoming a foodie’s favorite destination—Denver’s food scene has been expanding with more farm-to-table restaurants, unique global cuisines, fine dining, and trendy new eateries and food halls.
Larimer Square is Denver's urban shopping and dining district.
Explore Our Vibrant Campus in the Diverse City We Call Home.
Mural at CU Denver painted by Detour, the internationally acclaimed muralist and two-time alumnus.
Street Art
Denver is home to a bustling creative community—that’s why you’ll find beautiful and compelling artworks on nearly every corner. While walking the city, you’re sure to stumble across thought-provoking murals, graffiti, and street art on alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, and more. Our own campus features custom murals from one of our own alums! Denver sidewalks showcase some amazing sculptures, too. Get out and explore the city and see what hidden artistic treasure you can find.
Parks & Recreation
The mountains aren’t the only escape into nature around the Mile High City. Denver is known for more than 5,000 acres of parks right here in the city. No matter where you are, you’re likely to be only a few steps away from one of over 200 lush and relaxing green spaces in the city. With over 250 miles of on-street bike lines, paths, and trails, Denver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.
City Park in Denver, Colorado features picnic spots, playgrounds and lakeside trails.
Coors Field, a baseball stadium in downtown Denver, is the home field of Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies.
Sports Center
From football and baseball to lacrosse, soccer, and hockey, Denver offers sports fans numerous opportunities any time of year to watch the seven professional teams that call Denver home. The Mile High City has world-class stadiums, arenas, and indoor and outdoor facilities, including the home fields of the Avalanche, Broncos, Rockies, and Nuggets. All within a short walk or bike ride from campus.
Public Transportation
With more than 170 bus routes, 12 rail lines, and many specialty services, Denver’s public transportation makes it easy to get around town. You’ll find many light rail stations within minutes of campus—giving you quick and direct access to any place you want to go.
RTD is dedicated to serving the public and providing for the transportation needs of over 3.08 million people located within 2,342 square miles.
Get Your Education in Denver, Colorado
CU Denver
CU Denver
Student Commons Building
1201 Larimer Street
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 315-5969
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