Nestled in the western state of Colorado, surrounded by natures finest landscapes, is the mile-high city of Denver. True to its name, Denver sits one mile above sea level, tucked at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
With an impressive 300+ days of sunshine each year, Denver and its surrounds is the main gateway to some of North America’s finest powder and ski fields, natural attractions and probably the finest beer in the world.
Home to seven professional sports teams, celebrated diverse neighbourhoods and a thriving cultural scene, Denver is a year round destination.
Here is a look at six of Denver’s best things to do.
1. The Denver Beer Trail
With more beer produced in Denver than any other urban region in America, it’s no wonder the Denver Beer Trail is one of the most popular attractions.
Colloquially known as the ‘Napa Valley of beer’, some of Colorado’s oldest breweries can be found here. Over 200 beers are crafted daily and served from over 100 brewpubs and breweries daily.
Download the Denver Beer Trail Map and Guide 2015-2016.
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2. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
The naturally formed amphitheatre, just fifteen miles west of Denver, is part of Denver’s Theatre and Arenas Division. With a star-studded concert line-up each year, playing to the amphitheatres natural acoustics, the amphitheatre is surrounded by giant boulders making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
Red Rock Park also provides hiking trails and bike paths and a visitor’s centre that includes a performers Hall of Fame. Open year round with concerts during the summer season May through September.
3. Denver Art Museum
Designed by famed architect Daniel Libeskind, with art displays housed inside and outside of the Frederic C. Hamilton building, the Denver Art Museum displays an impressive collection of Native American Art.
Located in the Golden Triangle Museum District, it’s among the many art galleries, studios, speciality stores and one of eight museums in the area well worth a visit.
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4. Larimer Square
Located in one of Denver’s oldest historic blocks, Larimer Square hosts the Mile-High cities first saloons and businesses. The surrounding neighbourhood transformed old Victorian buildings into speciality shops, cool wine bars and award-winning restaurants.
Outdoor cafes and boutique stores stretch along the tree lined streets. Spend the afternoon window-shopping before enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants. Finish the evening at one of the many local bars, complete with a carefully crafted brew in hand.
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5. Union Station
Built in 1881, Union Station is now home to some the city’s most famed restaurants and popular shopping district. This historic building has been fully restored and transformed into a beautiful display, paying homage to it’s past.
Tall ceilings, stunning windows and chandelier displays have been restored throughout. The Crawford Hotel is an independent luxury hotel and has been voted by CNN as one of the world’s top 11 businesses hotels to stay.
6. History Colorado Centre
The Rocky mountain city’s, ‘History Colorado Centre’, includes exhibits and displays of Colorado’s past, present and future.
Several interactive exhibits include a virtual ride in a Model T Ford, the setting off of dynamite in an 1880s hard rock mine and be sure to try out the ski-jump simulator for an exhilarating flight. The centre is located a stones throw from the Golden Triangle Museum District.
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Have you been to Denver? Let us know in the comments below where you recommend.
Maybe we should meet in Denver for a beer sometime. Yes.
It’s a deal! Would love to 🙂