Destination

Denver, Colorado

Discover Denver’s vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and nearby geologic wonders. From Larimer Street to rugged Rocky Mountain landscapes, there’s something for every curious explorer.

Shops and restaurants line the historic preservation district of Larimer Square on downtown Denver.

From the General Chair—Geology of Denver and Surrounding Areas

GSA Connects 2026 General Chair Lon Abbott welcomes geoscientists to the foot of the Colorado Rockies—one of the world's most geologically puzzling mountain ranges. From Colorado's rich mining heritage to the region's pressing water challenges, Denver offers an extraordinary backdrop for this year's meeting themes.

Read Welcome Letter ↗

Know Before You Go

GSA Connects is headed to the Mile High City—and Visit Denver has everything you need to make your stay as unforgettable as the meeting itself.

People wandering around the shops and restaurant of 16th street pedestrian mall in downtown Denver. Free electric shuttle buses cruise the mile-long mall every few minutes and make everything in downtown easy to reach.

Beyond the Meeting

Denver has layers—uncover vibrant neighborhoods, vivid street art, and more.

EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

Exterior of Little Man Ice Cream in the LoHi neighborhood of Downtown Denver. Lower Highlands

Local Deals & Discounts

Explore more, spend less—exclusive Denver deals and discounts on top attractions.

DISCOVER DEALS

Early morning at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The open-air amphitheatre is built directly into a rock structure.

Sights Near Denver

Denver is your basecamp—world-class Rocky Mountain adventures just a day trip away.

Plan Day Trips

High angle view of radish on table, Denver, Colorado, United States, USA

MICHELIN Guide Denver

Taste the Mile High City—30+ Michelin-recognized restaurants and counting.

BOOK GOOD EATS

Rock the Bookshelf

From Mountains to Plains: Explore Local Geology

Denver is surrounded by striking geologic features that reveal the story of Earth’s dynamic past—from ancient sedimentary layers along the Front Range to dramatic foothills, canyons, and high plains. Whether you join a field excursion or explore on your own, the region offers exceptional opportunities to experience Colorado’s diverse geology up close.

Browse Colorado Geology Books

Discover Golden’s Hidden Gem

Visit the Mines Museum of Earth Science

Home to one of Colorado’s two Goodwill moon rocks collected during the Apollo 17 mission, the Mines Museum of Earth Science features more than 7,400 square feet of exhibits showcasing rocks, minerals, fossils, mining history, and other Earth science treasures. Highlights include Colorado’s historic State Mineral Collection, glowing minerals, an indoor cave, and authentic Triceratops trackways.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and admission is free.

Learn More

Florescent minerals glowing in the dark under UV light

Join the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for

OUT! at the Museum

Don't miss SCFD Free Day: OUT! at the Museum at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. From 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., enjoy free admission to the museum's permanent exhibitions, including the Coors Gems & Minerals Hall, Prehistoric Journey, Wildlife Halls, and much more—no advance reservation required.

This special celebration, presented in partnership with local LGBTQ+ organizations, features live performances, music, and hands-on activities in a fun, welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

Learn More

Students together at Denver Museum of Nature and Science at GSA Connects

Get Ready for GSA Connects 2026

Discover everything the GSA Annual Meeting has in store for you this October in Denver.

Explore Connects 2026 Registration Rates & Info

Contact

Have questions? We've got you covered—down to the bedrock. Reach out to the Geological Society of America toll-free at +1 800-472-1988, and we'll be happy to help.

GSA Member & Customer Services Department

gsaservice@geosociety.org