REI Denver Flagship
A massive 90,000 sq ft outdoor gear paradise on the waterfront, featuring a rock wall & Starbucks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
REI Denver Flagship
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A massive 90,000 sq ft outdoor gear paradise on the waterfront, featuring a rock wall & Starbucks.
"This store has everything, including a great location on the waterfront with a Starbucks inside."
🎯 Ask for Parking Validation
Don't forget to ask for parking validation at checkout to maximize your free parking time. :car:
✨ Become an REI Member
Membership offers a tax rebate and a 365-day return policy, making it worthwhile for frequent shoppers. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indoor Rock Climbing Wall
Center of the store
Test your climbing skills on this impressive multi-story rock wall, a thrilling sight for all ages.
+1
Waterfront Location & Starbucks
Adjacent to the Platte River
Enjoy a coffee break with a view at the in-store Starbucks, overlooking the scenic Platte River.
Vast Outdoor Gear Selection
All three floors
Explore a massive 90,000 sq ft of everything you need for outdoor adventures, from camping to climbing.
Kids Play Area
Designated section
Keep the little ones entertained in a dedicated play area while you browse the extensive selection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Perks & Pitfalls
Membership for Savings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask for Parking Validation
Don't forget to ask for parking validation at checkout to maximize your free parking time. :car:
✨ Become an REI Member
Membership offers a tax rebate and a 365-day return policy, making it worthwhile for frequent shoppers. :moneybag:
🧗♀️ Conquer the Climbing Wall
Challenge yourself on the impressive indoor rock climbing wall – it's a highlight for many visitors!
☕ Grab a Starbucks Break
Enjoy a coffee with a view at the Starbucks located inside, perfect for a mid-shopping pause.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask for Parking Validation
Don't forget to ask for parking validation at checkout to maximize your free parking time. :car:
✨ Become an REI Member
Membership offers a tax rebate and a 365-day return policy, making it worthwhile for frequent shoppers. :moneybag:
🧗♀️ Conquer the Climbing Wall
Challenge yourself on the impressive indoor rock climbing wall – it's a highlight for many visitors!
☕ Grab a Starbucks Break
Enjoy a coffee with a view at the Starbucks located inside, perfect for a mid-shopping pause.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring the family! There's a free kids' play area to keep the little ones entertained.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The REI Denver Flagship is praised for its immense selection of outdoor gear, impressive indoor rock climbing wall, and scenic waterfront location with an in-store Starbucks. Many appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the value of the REI membership, particularly its return policy. However, some visitors have reported inconsistent customer service experiences, with occasional feelings of being overlooked by staff.
"The best REI! This store has everything, including a great location on the waterfront with a starbucks inside. Multilevel amd easy to get turned around inside. Very friendly staff who know all of the products really well and helped me with useful advice."
Nia, Lens Go
"Wife and I were visiting Denver, so we stopped in to exchange her hiking pack, as she had her eyes on another.
This is a really cool looking store front. The only one that we have been to so far that competes is the one we stopped at in Seattle.
Nice store, plenty of stuff to look at, friendly staff, and free parking under 90 mins (i believe).
Stop in if your in need for outdoor gear and in the area."
Nick v
"Ah yes, REI: Recreational Employees Ignoring-you
Walked into REI hoping to gear up for an actual outdoor adventure. Instead, I was treated to the great indoors: specifically, the REI Café & Social Club. The store was packed, but the only employees I could find were clustered together mid-aisle, sipping Starbucks like they were in the middle of a highly classified espresso summit. Not a headset in sight, just foam lattes and deep, meaningful conversations.
After playing “Where’s Waldo: Staff Edition” for 20 minutes, I finally made it to the checkout line with my item only to find that 2 of the 3 cashiers had clocked out mentally and physically right in front of me. They literally turned their backs to me mid-transaction and started chatting like they were at brunch. I stood there, item in hand, money ready, watching my chance of being acknowledged slowly dissolve into the customer service abyss.
Eventually I just muttered to myself, “I guess they don’t like money at this location,” gently laid my item down on the counter like a sacrifice, and walked out. Nobody noticed. Nobody cared. It was almost poetic.
Do not shop here unless you're into performance art about the collapse of retail service. REI, if I wanted to feel invisible, I’d go camping alone not shopping with you.
I'd give you 0/5 stars if it was possible."
Bark Twain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The REI Denver Flagship is located at 1416 Platte St, Denver, CO. It's easily accessible by car and is situated along the waterfront. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, though public transport options are also available in the Denver area.
Parking at the REI Denver Flagship has a 1-hour free limit, though validation is possible at checkout. It's advisable to ask staff for validation to avoid potential fees, as the parking situation has changed recently.
While specific bus or light rail routes can vary, Denver has a public transportation system. Checking local transit apps or websites for routes serving the Platte Street area is recommended for public transport users.
Yes, biking is a great option! The store is located along the Platte River Trail, making it easily accessible for cyclists. There are likely bike racks available for secure parking.
The store is quite large and noticeable, situated on Platte Street. Its waterfront location and prominent signage make it relatively easy to spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the REI Denver Flagship store is free. You do not need a ticket to browse the store, though purchasing items will require payment.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the REI Denver Flagship store is open daily. It's always best to check the official REI website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
While the rock climbing wall is a major attraction, specific access details and any associated fees would need to be confirmed directly with the store. It's often included with general entry or may have a separate charge.
Yes, REI offers a 365-day return policy for most items, especially if you are a member. This is one of the best return policies available, making it a great place to shop.
Yes, REI has a membership program that offers benefits like a dividend (rebate) on eligible purchases and access to special sales. Many shoppers find the membership to be very cost-effective.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Services
You can find a vast selection of outdoor and fitness gear, including apparel, footwear, camping equipment, hiking gear, cycling accessories, climbing gear, and much more. It's a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yes, the REI Denver Flagship store features a highly-regarded bike shop known for its straightforward, efficient, and fair service. Technicians are praised for their communication and expertise.
Absolutely! The REI Denver Flagship store has a Starbucks conveniently located inside, offering a great spot to relax and refuel.
REI frequently has sales, including their popular Anniversary Sale, offering significant discounts on various items. Keep an eye on their website or sign up for their emails to be notified of upcoming promotions.
REI offers a generous 365-day return policy on most items, which is a significant perk for shoppers. Membership can enhance these benefits.
📸 📸 Photography
The indoor rock climbing wall offers dynamic shots, and the waterfront location provides scenic views, especially with the store's modern architecture. The sheer scale of the store itself is also impressive to capture.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos inside the REI Denver Flagship store for personal use. Be mindful of other shoppers and store operations.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be respectful of other customers and employees. Avoid intrusive photography that might disrupt business or privacy.
Weekday mornings might offer fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. The natural light from the large windows can also be appealing during daytime hours.
Yes, the climbing wall is a popular feature and many visitors capture photos and videos of it. It's a visually striking element of the store.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
making it a great stop for families. Parents can browse the extensive gear selection while kids have a safe space to burn off energy. The Starbucks inside is also a convenient spot for a quick snack or drink for everyone. Don't miss the impressive indoor rock climbing wall +1 – it's a fantastic visual spectacle for children (and adults!).Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds, which can make the experience more relaxed with little ones. While parking has time limits, the store's location and amenities make it a worthwhile destination for a family outing focused on outdoor inspiration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Becoming an REI member Even if you're not buying, the store itself is an experience. The impressive rock climbing wall
+1 and the waterfront location offer free entertainment. You can also window shop for inspiration for future adventures without spending a dime. Just be mindful of the 1-hour free parking limit 🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
on Platte Street makes it an easy addition to a city exploration. You can easily spend an hour or two browsing the vast selection of outdoor gear or simply marveling at the indoor rock climbing wall.+1Grab a coffee from the in-store Starbucks
and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. If you need any last-minute provisions for your adventures around Colorado, this is the perfect spot. Just remember to factor in the parking time limits Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the REI Denver Flagship
+1Key features include a prominent indoor rock climbing wall that serves as a central attraction, a Starbucks for refreshments, and a dedicated kids' play area. The store's location on the waterfront of the Platte River adds to its appeal, offering pleasant views and a connection to the outdoor lifestyle it promotes.
+1Navigating the store is part of the experience. While the sheer volume of merchandise can be overwhelming, the layout is generally intuitive, guiding you through different categories of gear. Don't hesitate to ask staff for assistance; they are often knowledgeable and can help you find exactly what you need.
The REI Membership Advantage
Beyond the dividend, members benefit from a generous 365-day return policy, one of the most flexible in the retail industry. This policy provides peace of mind, allowing you to return or exchange items within a full year. Members also get access to exclusive sales and events, further enhancing the value proposition.
Even if you're not a regular REI shopper, considering the membership for a large purchase or if you plan to visit the Denver Flagship store multiple times can be a smart financial move. The store's bike shop, for instance, is frequently praised for its service, and membership can make servicing your bike more economical.
Community Insights on Service
However, a notable number of reviews mention instances of perceived poor customer service, with some customers feeling ignored by staff who appear disengaged or clustered together. These experiences can lead to frustration, especially when trying to make a purchase or seek assistance.
It's important to note that the store's large size and high traffic can contribute to these varying service levels. While many find the staff to be exceptional, others have encountered challenges. Asking for help directly and being patient, especially during busy periods, might improve the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit