Explore the Rocky Mountains, visit the Denver Zoo, and enjoy live music at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Sample craft beers and shop at the lively 16th Street Mall in Colorado's capital.
Denver, Colorado's capital, sits exactly one mile above sea level. The city center hums with activity, while the nearby Rocky Mountains beckon adventurers. You can stroll down the 16th Street Mall, catch a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheater, examine Native American art at the Denver Art Museum, sample craft beers at local breweries, or trek through Rocky Mountain National Park. The Mile High City accommodates a broad spectrum of interests and pursuits.
Exploring Downtown Denver
Downtown Denver serves as the city's central hub. Start at Union Station, a restored Beaux-Arts building from 1914 that now houses restaurants, shops, and a boutique hotel. Walk along the 16th Street Mall, a mile-long pedestrian area lined with trees, outdoor cafes, and street performers. If you'd rather not walk, hop on the free shuttle that runs the length of the mall.
Cultural Attractions
Denver's cultural scene spans various interests. The Denver Art Museum holds a substantial collection of Native American and Western art, along with works from around the world. The museum's architecture includes a wing designed by Daniel Libeskind. At the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, you can explore exhibits on topics ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration.
Outdoor Recreation
Despite its urban setting, Denver has numerous green spaces. City Park, the largest in Denver, contains the Denver Zoo and provides views of the city skyline and mountains. For a more rugged experience, drive about an hour and a half to Rocky Mountain National Park. There, you can hike trails, set up camp, and observe wildlife in an alpine environment.
Food and Drink Scene
Denver's culinary landscape has expanded significantly in recent years. The city has embraced the food hall concept, with venues like Denver Central Market and Avanti F&B offering multiple dining options under one roof. For a more traditional experience, try the restaurants in Larimer Square, located in preserved Victorian-era buildings.
Denver has over 150 breweries in the metro area. You can join brewery tours or visit tap rooms to sample some of the craft beers produced in the city.
Unique Neighborhoods
Each of Denver's neighborhoods has its own distinct character. The River North Art District (RiNo), once an industrial area, has transformed into a creative center with street art, galleries, and modern eateries. Cherry Creek attracts shoppers and diners with its array of stores and restaurants, while the Highland neighborhood blends Victorian-era homes with contemporary dining spots.
Sports and Entertainment
Denver fields professional teams in all major sports, including the NFL's Denver Broncos and the NBA's Denver Nuggets. For a unique music experience, attend a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an open-air venue formed by natural rock formations. The amphitheater is praised for its acoustics and views of the surrounding landscape.
