There is truly no better place to be than Denver in the summer – the city is known for its seemingly unending selection of outdoor adventures, but recent scorching temperatures mean spending time in the sun isn’t always the best idea. If you’re looking for exciting ways to stay cool, Denver is currently home to an impressive collection of experiential and immersive indoor activities. From art exhibits and some of Denver’s best cultural experiences, to immersive mixed reality, below are six perfect, fun-filled options for everyone seeking shelter from the elements this summer in the Mile High City.
For the family: Unreal Garden (500 16th St. Mall Ste. 261)
Step into another world at The Unreal Garden, brand new to Denver. The immersive augmented reality (AR) experience invites guests to tap into their inner child and discover unbelievable animal characters in an interactive holographic story spanning the sky to the ocean, and the earth to outer space. The Unreal Garden allows visitors to explore interactive, three-dimensional holographic characters and worlds as they venture through physical spaces while being able to maintain eye contact and presence with their companions. (featured image)
For individuals: The Art of Banksy (1000 Broadway)
Step inside an unofficial Denver landmark, the Denver Sports Castle, and marvel at more than 100 original artworks by reclusive street artist Banksy. The Art of Banksy is the largest touring exhibition of authentic Banksy artworks in the world and is in its final weeks, only available through Sunday, July 10.
For friends: The FRIENDS Experience (2500 E. First Ave.)
Step out of the heat from outdoors and fire up the 90s and early 00s nostalgia among friends with The FRIENDS Experience. The interactive space features 12 nostalgia-packed rooms and activations from the iconic television series, including Monica’s kitchen and the iconic FRIENDS fountain. Fans are invited to explore the show’s history and recreate their favorite moments such as peeking around Rachel and Monica’s purple door, relaxing in Chandler and Joey’s recliner or helping Ross with the infamous sofa pivot.
For couples: Nocturne (1330 27th St.)
A Denver institution, Nocturne marries the culinary, cocktail, and musical arts to create a singular, unforgettable hospitality experience. Ideal for a date night out after a day spent in the summer sun, grab a seat at Nocturne with live jazz Wednesday through Sunday and enjoy the seasonally rotating menu, highlighting summer’s best produce, as well as “newfangled” original cocktails, the perfect summer sips.
For the art & history buffs: Immersive Frida Kahlo & Immersive Van Gogh (3900 Elati St.)
Both from Lighthouse Immersive, North America’s leading producer of ground-breaking experiential art exhibits, Immersive Frida Kahlo and Immersive Van Gogh showcase the art and lives of inimitable artists. Here, guests can cool off and take a seat as art, light and music immerse them in an oeuvre of masterpieces. Plus, Immersive King Tut will soon be available at the same space for a deeper dive on history.
-Maura Consedine
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Author: Mile High Mamas
