Where History Meets Celebration
Summer 2026 is shaping up to be extraordinary. On July 4, the entire nation will celebrate America’s 250th birthday, and just a few weeks later, August 1 marks the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood. Two extraordinary anniversaries, one extraordinary city, and no better place to find yourself in the middle of it all than Denver Union Station and The Crawford Hotel.
What You’ll Get From This Guide
- The key America 250 and Colorado 150 moments to watch for in Denver
- Why Denver Union Station makes the easiest home base for big summer weekends
- Transit tips and walkable downtown planning
- A shortlist of nearby cultural stops—plus easy day trips beyond the city
America 250 and Colorado 150 Events in Denver
Denver is pulling out all the stops for a summer of celebration, and the festivities stretch from the banks of the South Platte to the steps of the State Capitol. Here’s a look at what’s on the calendar.
Denver Union Station
All summer long, the station will serve as a gathering place with programming, pop-up events, and installations celebrating Colorado’s 150-year journey. As one of the state’s most beloved landmarks, Union Station is a natural hub for Colorado 150 festivities. Expect live music in the Great Hall, curated exhibits, and the kind of electric, festive energy that makes the plaza feel like the city’s living room.
America 250 Fourth of July Celebrations
Denver’s Independence Day celebrations are always legendary, and this summer, they’ll reach a new peak. Civic Center Park hosts one of the region’s largest July 4th gatherings, complete with live performances, food, and fireworks. The 16th Street Mall and surrounding Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood, just steps from Union Station, will be alive with activity throughout the holiday weekend.
Colorado 150 Statehood Day – August 1
Mark your calendars: August 1, 2026, marks exactly 150 years since Colorado entered the Union as the 38th state. Statehood Day celebrations are expected to span the city, including events at Colorado’s State Capitol, History Colorado Center, and throughout downtown Denver. One can’t-miss experience: the Stories in the Sky drone show at Coors Field, followed by a Colorado Rockies game, will make for an unforgettable night out.
History Colorado Center
A quick walk or rideshare from Union Station, History Colorado Center will feature special Colorado 150 exhibitions throughout the summer. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the state you’re visiting, it’s a fascinating and beautifully curated stop.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series
No Colorado summer is complete without a night at Red Rocks, one of the most iconic music venues on earth. This summer’s lineup promises major acts set against those unmistakable crimson sandstone formations. The Crawford Hotel team is delighted to help you arrange the journey from Union Station.
Rocky Mountain National Park
For those who want to take their celebrations to new heights, Rocky Mountain National Park is roughly 90 minutes from Union Station by car and will be part of this summer’s America 250 programming, honoring the country’s breathtaking public lands.
Your Celebration Home Base: Denver Union Station
This summer, Denver Union Station is the perfect home base for your centennial celebrations. Union Station is easily walkable from attractions and sights in LoDo, and with direct access to a robust transit system, the entire city is within reach. You can even arrive directly from Denver International Airport by light rail – no rental car, no traffic, no stress. Step off the train and straight into summer vacation mode at The Crawford Hotel, located within Union Station.
As a guest of The Crawford Hotel, the Great Hall of Union Station is essentially your living room. The Terminal Bar, Coop Lounge, and surrounding restaurants mean that even when you’re not out exploring, you’re surrounded by the best of Denver’s food, drink, and social energy. During Colorado 150 and America 250 programming, that energy will be something special.
The Crawford’s concierge team lives and breathes all things Denver. Whether you need tickets to a Colorado 150 event, a reservation at one of the city’s top restaurants, or directions to the best spots to watch the fireworks, you’re in good hands. Consider the Crawford team your local experts for the most celebrated summer Denver has ever seen.
Come Celebrate With Us This Summer
Summer 2026 will bring an extra layer of meaning to Denver—history in the streets, celebration in the parks, and Union Station at the center of it all. Make The Crawford Hotel your address inside the station, with the city’s best neighborhoods and venues within easy reach. Explore our latest offers and start planning your summer escape to Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions About America’s 250 and Colorado 150
Staying at Union Station means no car is required to get around Denver with ease. Denver’s light rail and bus network connects you to many destinations and attractions, and Union Station is the hub of the transit system. For Red Rocks or Rocky Mountain National Park, we’ll happily recommend car rental options or guided tour services.
It’s recommended you book your summer stay at The Crawford Hotel as soon as possible, since this is shaping up to be one of Denver’s busiest travel seasons in memory. With America 250 and Colorado 150 drawing visitors from across the country, availability at The Crawford (and around the city) will fill up quickly. We recommend booking well in advance, especially around July 4th weekend and Statehood Day on August 1.
Denver Union Station and The Crawford Hotel are perfect for families: the plaza outside the station is lively and welcoming, and there’s plenty of family-friendly programming planned this summer. Our Loft rooms are especially popular with travelers looking to maximize their guestroom space.
Take the University of Colorado A Line directly from DIA to Denver Union Station. It’s a 37-minute ride that runs frequently and drops you off steps from our front door.
The Crawford Hotel will be hosting a range of in-hotel programming tied to America 250 and Colorado 150 this summer. Stay tuned to our website’s event page and social media channels for announcements, and don’t hesitate to ask our team what’s happening when you arrive.