University of Colorado Denver Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) is a dynamic urban university set in the historic Auraria neighborhood, where the city’s Indigenous roots and gold rush origins intersect with modern academic and cultural innovation. Whether you’re a prospective student, local resident, or traveler interested in Denver’s vibrant history, CU Denver provides a unique campus experience, highlighted by architectural landmarks, collaborative spirit, and proximity to key Denver attractions (CU Denver Catalog; CU Denver About; Top Universities; CU Denver Visit page).

This guide delivers comprehensive information on visiting hours, campus tours, accessibility, travel logistics, and nearby historical sites, ensuring you make the most of your visit to a cornerstone institution of Denver’s past, present, and future.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Historical Foundations and Evolution
  3. Practical Visitor Information
  4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  5. Conclusion & How to Plan Your Visit
  6. References

Historical Foundations and Evolution

Indigenous Roots and Early Settlement

CU Denver’s campus occupies land originally home to the Cheyenne, Ute, and Arapaho peoples, whose stewardship shaped the area’s early history (CU Denver Catalog). The Auraria neighborhood, named for “aurum” (gold), became a focal point during the 1858 gold rush, fueling Denver’s growth and establishing a multicultural legacy, notably as a vibrant Hispanic community.

Growth and Institutional Independence

The university’s origins trace to 1912 with the University of Colorado’s Department of Correspondence and Extension, serving Denver’s urban needs with innovative educational offerings. By the 1960s, the institution had expanded significantly, and in 1973, CU Denver gained independence as an urban research university within the University of Colorado system (CU Denver Catalog; Zippia).

Auraria Campus and Historic Preservation

The creation of the Auraria Campus in the 1970s marked a major urban renewal effort, uniting CU Denver with Metropolitan State University Denver and Community College of Denver (CU Denver Catalog). Noteworthy historic sites include the Tivoli Student Union—a restored 19th-century brewery—and the Ninth Street Historic Park, which preserves Victorian-era homes.

Academic and Community Impact

CU Denver now serves over 15,000 students and offers more than 100 degree programs across seven schools and colleges (CU Denver About). The university is recognized for its strength in business, engineering, public affairs, and architecture, with a student body rich in diversity—half identifying as students of color and many as first-generation college students (Top Universities).

Research and Economic Significance

As an R1-designated institution, CU Denver leads in research and innovation, contributing over $800 million annually to the state economy and employing approximately 2,000 faculty and staff (CU Denver About). Its 2030 Strategic Plan aims for national leadership as an equity-serving and globally engaged research university (CU Denver Strategic Planning).


Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

  • General Campus Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (hours may vary by building; check CU Denver official website for details)
  • Tivoli Student Union and other facilities: Confirm specific hours online

Campus Tours and Tickets

  • Guided Tours: Book through the CU Denver Visit page. Tours are led by student ambassadors in multiple languages; ASL support available upon request.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Download maps and brochures for independent exploration.
  • Virtual Tours: Explore campus highlights online.

Admission to campus and tours is free; advance registration is recommended, especially during peak periods.

Accessibility

CU Denver provides comprehensive accessibility:

  • Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available
  • Designated accessible parking
  • Safety escorts from campus police on request
  • Visitors needing accommodations should contact the university ahead of their visit

Transportation and Travel Tips

Getting There:

  • Public Transit: The campus is well-served by RTD light rail and over 170 bus routes. The free 16th Street Mall shuttle connects campus to downtown.
  • From Denver International Airport: Take the A Line rail to Union Station, then transfer to light rail or bus to reach campus (Denver Airport Rail).
  • Cycling: Bike lanes and rental services (e.g., Lime) are available.

Parking: Limited on campus and in downtown Denver; public transit or biking is advised.

Travel Tips:

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
  • Dress in layers—Denver’s weather can change quickly.
  • Stay hydrated due to the city’s high elevation (Denver Weather Tips).
  • Use the campus map for orientation.

Nearby Attractions

  • Confluence Park: Site of Denver’s founding, scenic walks, and river views
  • Larimer Square: Historic block with dining and shopping
  • Denver Mint: Free tours on select days (Denver Gazette)
  • Denver Union Station: Historic rail hub with shops and restaurants (Denver Union Station official site)
  • Denver Art Museum: Noted for Native American art collections
  • 16th Street Mall and Performing Arts Complex: Dining, entertainment, and culture

Photographic Highlights

  • Tivoli Student Union: Historic architecture and brewery views
  • Campus greenspaces: Panoramic downtown skyline
  • Ninth Street Historic Park: Preserved 1800s homes
  • Public art and murals: Both on campus and in nearby RiNo Art District

Dining and Amenities

  • On-Campus: Cafés and food courts in Tivoli Student Union
  • Nearby: Downtown Denver offers diverse restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops (Denver Dining Tips)
  • Bookstore: Located in Tivoli; souvenirs and apparel available
  • Wi-Fi: Free guest access campus-wide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are CU Denver’s visiting hours?
A: Most facilities are open 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; individual building hours may vary (CU Denver Visit page).

Q: Is there a fee for campus tours?
A: No, tours are free, but pre-registration is encouraged.

Q: Are tickets required for special events?
A: Some events may require tickets; check the CU Denver events page for details.

Q: Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, CU Denver offers ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and additional accommodations upon request.

Q: How do I reach CU Denver from the airport?
A: Take the airport rail (A Line) to Union Station, then a short light rail or bus ride to campus (Denver Transportation Guide).

Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Confluence Park, Larimer Square, Denver Union Station, Denver Mint, and the Denver Art Museum.


Conclusion & How to Plan Your Visit

A visit to CU Denver offers more than a glimpse into academic life—it’s a journey through Denver’s layered history, diverse culture, and vibrant urban landscape. Enjoy free guided or self-guided tours, discover historic architecture, and take advantage of the campus’s central location to explore downtown Denver’s renowned sites.

Plan your visit:

  • Reserve your campus tour at the CU Denver Visit page
  • Check building hours and accessibility
  • Review campus maps and nearby attractions
  • Download the Audiala app for personalized navigation and audio guides

Stay updated via CU Denver’s official website and social media channels. For special accommodations, call (303) 315-2601 or email [email protected].

Explore CU Denver—where the city’s past meets its future.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Denver

16Th Street Mall
16Th Street Mall
1801 California Street
1801 California Street
Auraria Campus
Auraria Campus
Aztlan Theatre
Aztlan Theatre
Bug Theatre
Bug Theatre
|
  Byers-Evans House Museum (Center For Colorado Women'S History)
| Byers-Evans House Museum (Center For Colorado Women'S History)
Cathedral Basilica Of The Immaculate Conception
Cathedral Basilica Of The Immaculate Conception
Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park
City Park
City Park
Civic Center Park
Civic Center Park
Clyfford Still Museum
Clyfford Still Museum
Colorado Convention Center
Colorado Convention Center
Colorado State Capitol
Colorado State Capitol
Convergence Station
Convergence Station
Coors Field
Coors Field
Daniels & Fisher Tower
Daniels & Fisher Tower
Denver Art Museum
Denver Art Museum
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Coliseum
Denver Coliseum
Denver Firefighters Museum
Denver Firefighters Museum
Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport
Denver Mint
Denver Mint
Denver Museum Of Miniatures, Dolls And Toys
Denver Museum Of Miniatures, Dolls And Toys
Denver Museum Of Nature And Science
Denver Museum Of Nature And Science
Denver Public Library
Denver Public Library
Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo
Downtown Aquarium, Denver
Downtown Aquarium, Denver
Du Stadium
Du Stadium
Elitch Gardens Theme Park
Elitch Gardens Theme Park
Elitch Theatre
Elitch Theatre
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Empower Field At Mile High
Empower Field At Mile High
Eugene Field House
Eugene Field House
Fairmount Cemetery
Fairmount Cemetery
Fillmore Auditorium
Fillmore Auditorium
Forney Transportation Museum
Forney Transportation Museum
Fort Logan National Cemetery
Fort Logan National Cemetery
Four Mile Historic Park
Four Mile Historic Park
History Colorado
History Colorado
History Colorado Center
History Colorado Center
I See What You Mean
I See What You Mean
Kirkland Museum Of Fine & Decorative Art
Kirkland Museum Of Fine & Decorative Art
Kusa Helistop
Kusa Helistop
Lakeside Amusement Park
Lakeside Amusement Park
Lumber Baron Inn
Lumber Baron Inn
Magness Arena
Magness Arena
Mile High Stadium
Mile High Stadium
Moffat Station
Moffat Station
Molly Brown House
Molly Brown House
Museum Of Contemporary Art Denver
Museum Of Contemporary Art Denver
National Ballpark Museum
National Ballpark Museum
National Jewish Health
National Jewish Health
Paramount Theatre
Paramount Theatre
Platte Valley Trolley
Platte Valley Trolley
Regis University
Regis University
River Front Park
River Front Park
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Ruby Hill Park
Ruby Hill Park
Russell Square Park
Russell Square Park
Saint Charles Place Park
Saint Charles Place Park
Sakura Square
Sakura Square
San Rafael Historic District
San Rafael Historic District
Sanchez Park
Sanchez Park
Sanderson Gulch Park
Sanderson Gulch Park
Schafer Park
Schafer Park
Sherman And Vassar Park
Sherman And Vassar Park
Skyland Park
Skyland Park
Skyline Park
Skyline Park
Southmoor Park
Southmoor Park
Stapleton International Airport
Stapleton International Airport
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
|
  Stonemen'S Row Historic District
| Stonemen'S Row Historic District
Sunken Gardens Park
Sunken Gardens Park
Swallow Hill Historic District
Swallow Hill Historic District
Tattered Cover
Tattered Cover
Thatcher Memorial Fountain
Thatcher Memorial Fountain
The Brown Palace Hotel And Spa, Autograph Collection
The Brown Palace Hotel And Spa, Autograph Collection
Tivoli Brewery Company
Tivoli Brewery Company
Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge
Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge
Union Station
Union Station
University Of Colorado Denver
University Of Colorado Denver
University Of Denver
University Of Denver
University Of Denver Arena
University Of Denver Arena
Valverde Park
Valverde Park
Vanderbilt Park
Vanderbilt Park
Vine And Iowa Park
Vine And Iowa Park
Voorhies Memorial
Voorhies Memorial
Wallace Park
Wallace Park
Water World, Colorado
Water World, Colorado
Weir Gulch Park
Weir Gulch Park
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
Westminster Castle
Westminster Castle
Westwood Park
Westwood Park
William G Fisher House / International House
William G Fisher House / International House
Wings Over The Rockies Air And Space Museum
Wings Over The Rockies Air And Space Museum
Wolff And Quincy Park
Wolff And Quincy Park
Zuni And 51St Park
Zuni And 51St Park