Fan Expo 2023 is rolling into Denver June 30th-July 2nd and if you’re into movies, sci-fi, celebrities, collectibles, video games or anything comics, this is the place to be! Think of it as Rocky Mountain Comic-Con. And if you’re traveling to Colorado for this event, you’ll want to make the most of your vacation here. In this blog, I’ll list where to go, where to stay, and things to do all around Denver. But first, let’s talk all things expo.

Now I will fully admit, I did not think the whole Comic Convention scene was for me. When I lived in California I had the opportunity to film an episode of my show at Outside Comic-Con and if you watched that video you’ll see that I didn’t even know who Deadpool was…that is until I learned Ryan Reynolds was playing the role in the upcoming film. But marrying a guy who has hundreds of Marvel collectibles, a room just for games, a room for lego’s and walls full of signed celebrity paraphernalia, I’ve now been to my share of comic conventions. But one thing I haven’t seen outside of California, is a lineup like this year’s Fan Expo! Let me tell ya, this event is not just for comic fanatics!

Here are just a few of the celebrities attending Fan Expo: Hayden Christensen from Star Wars, John Bernthal from The Walking Dead, Christina Ricci from The Addams Family, Joseph Quinn from Stranger Things, Danny Trejo from Machete, and Christopher Lloyd from Back to the Future and so many more! But the huge celebrity draw for me is the opportunity to see cast members TOGETHER! Think Scream cast, Saved by the Bell, The Office, and of course the National Lampoons Christmas Vacation Cast (the greatest Christmas film of all time in my opinion). I mean you can’t beat seeing Clark and Uncle Eddie together! For the full list click here.

But there is so much more than Celebrity signings, from panels, demos, and workshops, to cosplay competitions, there is something going on every day. This is also the place to buy exclusive fan items throughout the 300,000 sq. ft. convention center. And then of course there’s community areas to meet like-minded friends and after parties to celebrate each night. And if you’re not convinced yet, let’s talk about all that Denver has to offer while you’re here.

Where is Fan Expo Denver Located?

Fan Expo is taking place at the Colorado Convention Center right in the heart of downtown Denver. The Convention Center is walking distance to the 16th Street Mall and the Capitol Building at Civic Center Park. A few blocks away is Larimer Square, a hip block of breweries, restaurants, and shops. Just look for the big blue bear, and you’ll know you’re there!

Where to Stay in Denver

Denver has a wide variety of hotels but staying closest to the Convention Center would be my suggestion. Like any large city, walking around late at night can get a bit sketchy in some areas. Luckily, right next to the convention center you’ll find the Hyatt Regency, the Sheraton, and Grand Hyatt, and the Four Seasons Hotel. There’s also a nearby Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, and Marriott. All of this to say, there is no shortage of hotels at every price point.

Where to Eat in Downtown Denver

Being in the heart of downtown, there are loads of places within walking distance of Fan Expo to eat. One block away you’ll find the legendary Sam’s No. 3. A great place for lunch is Snarf’s Sandwiches or Rock Bottom Brewery. If you’re looking for nice places for dinner, check out Tamayo, Terra, or Hapa Sushi & Sake Bar. And as for nightlife, the possibilities are endless! Bar AC and 54 Thirty Rooftop have amazing craft cocktails. The Celtic on Market, Pour House, and Bao Brewhouse offer a more laid back atmosphere, and if you’re looking to shoot pool, head to Tarantula Billiards, or a short driving distance away is my favorite Wynkoop Brewing Co.

Things to do in Denver

While the Fan Expo will keep you plenty busy Friday-Sunday, if staying in Denver for a few extra days, there is so much to do here. Urban Putt is an indoor Putt Putt Golf Bar that serves upscale food and drinks, while playing mini golf! Meow Wolf art installation is a short driving distance away. And also going on that weekend, you can watch the Colorado Rockies take on the Detroit Tigers at Coors Stadium. Staying even longer? Get out of Denver and head south to Colorado Springs to the Garden of the Gods or head west to Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park. You could also take interstate 70 to any of the iconic Colorado ski towns like Breckenridge or Vail. All of this to say, when you come to Colorado you should stay awhile.

Whether you’ll be rocking your superhero boots or your hiking boots, Denver has something for everyone. And so does Fan Expo. There is so much to see and do at this event that three days will barely scratch the surface…which I guess means you’ll already be planning your 2024 trip back. So come for the convention, and stay for the city. See y’all there!

Fan Expo Facts:

• Friday June 30th - Sunday July 2nd

• Over 100,000 attendees

• Ticket Prices range from $38 - $129

• Group Photo Ops Available for:
  National Lampoons Cast
  Scream Cast
  Star Trek Cast
  And More!

• Show Hours:
  Friday 4 PM – 9 PM
  Saturday 10 AM – 7 PM
  Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM

• Learn more at: https://fanexpohq.com/fanexpodenver/