Colorado Hotel Magazine - Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

FAREWELL to an

ICON Peyton Manning Says Goodbye to 2016 Superbowl Champion Team

SERENITY IN A MOUNTAIN SETTING

Colorado’s Beautiful Destinations

WINE WITH AN ALTITUDE

Colorado’s Wine Country Comes of Age

THE MANY FACES OF TROY GUARD

Denver’s Well-Known Chef Builds an Empire

FUN WITH THE FAMILY

Where to Go With Kids in Tow

ALLEN EDMONDS

LACOSTE

ANTHROPOLOGIE

LOUIS VUITTON

APPLE

MICHAEL KORS

BCBGMAXAZRIA

MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS

BOSS HUGO BOSS

MONTBLANC

BREITLING

OMEGA

BROOKS BROTHERS

RH DENVER

BURBERRY

ROBERTO COIN

DAVID YURMAN

SCOTCH & SODA

DIESEL

SEPHORA

ELWAY’S STEAKHOUSE

STUART WEITZMAN

EVERYTHING BUT WATER

SWATCH

FAÇONNABLE

TIFFANY & CO.

FREE PEOPLE

TOMMY BAHAMA

HYDE PARK

TORY BURCH

JOHN ATENCIO

TUMI

KIEHL’S SINCE 1851

WILLIAMS-SONOMA

KONA GRILL

Z GALLERIE

160 A M A Z I N G S T O RES, OV ER 40 EXCL USIV E TO DENV ER 3000 E A S T F I R S T AV E N U E • DENV ER, CO • SHOP CHERRY CREEK .C O M

Where do you want to

LIV Pictured: 1860 Cresta Road, Vail Valley

Any origin, any destination. Let us help you LIV the life you love.

livsothebysrealty.com/relocation Boulder

Castle Pines

Cherry Creek

relocation@livsothebysrealty.com

Denver Tech Center

Downtown Denver

303.893.3200

Evergreen

Breckenridge

Vail Valley

#thelifeyoulove

335 Lee Hill Drive, Boulder. $7,150,000

106 S. University Boulevard #3, Denver. $1,579,000

161 Sunrise Point, Breckenridge. $5,499,000

336 Crest Drive, Idaho Springs. $1,200,000

512 Cook Street, Denver. $1,695,000

FEATURES

ISSUE 12: SPRING 2016

contents 20 LIE DETECTOR

30 ROCKY MOUNTAIN GETAWAYS

40 ANYTHING BUT CONVENTIONAL

John B. Wells turns mainstream media on its ear with conspiracy theories, politics, UFOs and more on his worldwide Internet television show.

BY JIM MARRS

Colorado is known for its fabulous resorts, which run the gamut from charming boutique hotels to stately structures that are truly the discriminating traveler’s delight.

BY ELLEN GRAY

The Inverness Hotel & Conference Center.

A southeast Denver icon embraces a new era of hospitality.

BY MONICA PARPAL STOCKBRIDGE

22 SIPPING AND SAVORING GRAND VALLEY

36 TROY STORY

Grand Junction and Palisade are Colorado’s wine country, but other adult beverages, lavender, local foods and abundant activities are growing reasons to visit.

BY BETH BUEHLER

Local Denver Chef Troy Guard on cooking, community, and taking the Denver dining scene to infinity … and beyond.

BY MONICA PARPAL STOCKBRIDGE

Denver’s hometown hero Peyton Manning brings home one more big win before hanging up the cleats

BY BRIAN HOWELL

44 SUPERBOWL!

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Photograph by Ben Hays

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

We invite you to experience the wonder of nature through the lens of Thomas D. Mangelsen.

CHERRY CREEK NORTH, DENVER 216 Clayton Street | 888-345-3007 LIMITED EDITION FINE ART PHOTOGR APHY

DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Main Terminal, Level 5 | 888-238-9217 |

800-228-9686

|

mangelsen.com

the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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IN EVERY ISSUE

ISSUE 12: SPRING 2016

contents

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12 THE RUNDOWN An insider’s view of all things Colorado – from real estate to the arts, dining and shopping to outdoor adventure – Colorado has it going on!

50 DENVER’S BEST STEAKHOUSES Our picks for the places to get a great cut of beef.

52 FAMILY TIES An insider’s guide to Denver’s best family-friendly things to do this spring.

BY REBECCA TREON 56 THE SCENE In Colorado, we’ve got events to suit everyone’s style. Check our calendar for the best of the state’s culture and entertainment during your stay.

66 DINING Whether you want a quick bite or a sumptuous sit-down meal, Denver and Colorado offer plenty of places from which to choose. Take a glance at our guide before heading out on your next culinary excursion.

76 SHOPPING From trendy boutiques and high-end malls to hip vintage stores and more, we know the smart spots to shop in our beautiful state.

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78 ATTRACTIONS What will make your visit memorable?

Allow us to recommend what to do and where to go for fun and adventure in Denver and around Colorado.

80 OUR PARTING SHOT From golf to hiking to rafting or cycling, springtime in the Rockies is all about fun. The climbing wall at Copper Mountain challenges kids and adults to move beyond their comfort zone!

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Photograph by Robert Miller

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

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Come shop with us.

Hi-tech. Sleek. Modern.

The “Apple Store“ of Cannabis.

Freshly baked edibles and a fantastic assortment of cannabis pastries, lollipops, chocolates, infused drinks, topicals and tinctures. A short walk from your hotel and an experience like no other.

Mention this ad and get a house joint for

$0.01

any purchase over $50

EufloraColorado.com

403 16th Street Mall At the corner of 16th and Tremont 303.534.6255

6260 S. Gun Club Road Aurora, CO 80016 303.766.8677

4343 S. Buckley Road Aurora, CO 80015 303.680.1016

While all our products are delicious, they are most definitely NOT for children.

Please keep out of the reach of children.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

ISSUE 12: SPRING 2016

W

ith winter in Colorado winding down, many of us can’t believe we’ll have to hang up our skis for another season. This year’s we’ve had some absolutely epic ski days, with champagne powder and plenty of sunshine – plain and simply, bluebird days.

The good news is that as ski areas wind down their cold-weather escapades, throughout Colorado there is no end to the variety of great things to do and see.

From museums to theater, from top-shelf dining to world-class shopping, a quick look through our magazine will show you that entertainment is around every corner. Feel like a little exercise? Red Rocks hosts its Saturday morning wellness classes, or just grab a pair of tennis shoes or boots for a brisk hike or walk on one of the state’s beautiful trails – all abilities welcome.

Colorado is a bike-lover’s paradise, whether you’re in the city or up on the mountain.

Rent a bike or even hop on one of the city’s B-Cycles for a cruise around Denver or Boulder. It’s a great way to see the sights and get some exercise – so you won’t feel guilty indulging in that great dessert or after-dinner aperitif in one of our many fabulous restaurants. And speaking of great meals, make sure you check out one of popular chef Troy Guard’s excellent restaurants. You can learn all about Troy in this issue.

With the passing of winter, we bid goodbye to another season of great football, and we could not be prouder of our hometown team. With a Super Bowl win that was truly the toast of the town, it was wonderful to watch the hundreds of thousands of fans, both new and old, unite to cheer on our beloved Broncos. The victory parade was nothing short of fantastic, as we watched an enormous crowd gather to celebrate the big victory, in a friendly and wonderful way that made headlines as much for the positive display as for the big win itself.

But we do not despair because our Sunday afternoons are not filled with football.

There are too many great ways to pass the time, whether it’s world-class shopping, excellent theater, crazy festivals, gallery hopping, fantastic music or so much more.

But wait, we haven’t even mentioned a trip to one of Colorado’s phenomenal resorts.

In this issue we introduce you to some of our favorites, each of which offers a state of luxury and pampering that you have to experience to believe. We’ve selected getaways that will create magical memories to last a lifetime, as much for their first-class accommodations as for their settings and amenities.

As the snow melts away, Colorado’s wine country comes to life, and it’s worth a read to learn about the wonders of Grand Junction and Palisade. But there’s more than wine to experience in this untapped region of the state. Lavender has become a trademark of the area, and the blossoms are truly something to behold and a true wonder. And let’s face it: what could be better than sipping wine fresh from the barrel as you listen to the soothing sounds of jazz? This is Colorado wine country, and it’s all explored in this issue!

So what are you waiting for? Get fueled up at one of the our great restaurants (we list our faves in the dining section) and experience Colorado like a local. We tell you how – the rest is up to you!

Ellen Gray, Publisher, Denver Hotel Magazine

If you have an interesting Colorado experience or story to share, we would be pleased to read it and consider it for publication. Email your story to us at ellen@denverhotelmagazine.com.

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

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EDITOR Ellen Gray ART DIRECTOR Anthony Toddy GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lindsay Forrester

Did you know Downtown Denver is the 2nd fastest growing large city in the U.S.?

Over 200,000 people move to Denver each year. Today, Downtown Denver is home to 17,500 residents a 142% increase since 2000.

For more information on Metropolitan Denver, mountain communities, or other lifestyle options, please call or email us.

Artfully

helping people relocate

STEVE & JARED BLANK

Steve 303.520.5558 | Jared 303.521.5025 steve.blank@sothebysrealty.com jared.blank@sothebysrealty.com livsothebysrealty.com

CONTRIBUTORS Beth Buehler Claudia Carbone David Grimsland Brian Howell Jim Marrs Monica Parpal Stockbridge Rebecca Treon David Woo INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-AT-LARGE Angela Youngman PUBLISHER Ellen Gray DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING David Grimsland PRESIDENT OF CORE PUBLISHING Pete Northway VICE PRESIDENT OF CORE PUBLISHING Shelly Northway DENVER HOTEL MAGAZINE COLORADO HOTEL MAGAZINE 104 Broadway, Ste. 600 Denver, Colorado 80203 ColoradoHotelMagazine.com

Reproduction without permission from publisher is prohibited. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the publication, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors and omissions.

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A Luxury Oasis in the Cherry Creek ‘Hood

By Claudia Carbone

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T

ucked into the fashionable

neighborhood of Cherry Creek North, The Inn at Cherry Creek welcomes guests through its unpretentious front door in the middle of the block on Clayton St. One would never guess that inside the simple red brick facade is a charming European-style boutique hotel, with luxury amenities and services that rival the fanciest downtown accommodations.

All 33 guest rooms include everything discerning visitors desire for a comfortable night’s stay: distinctive furniture, elegant decor, luxurious terrycloth robes, cable TV, irons/ironing boards, hair dryers, desks, phones and free Wifi. Deluxe rooms have fireplaces and soaking tubs, while the Terrace rooms open to furnished patios. A small lobby with tastefully appointed cozy groupings hint at the stylish hotel’s understated elegance.

With its prime location in the heart of Cherry Creek and five minutes from downtown Denver, the Inn caters to business travelers, offering two suites, three completely furnished corporate apartments with daily maid service and in-unit laundry room, and meeting rooms. The executive suite, also the bridal suite, has a 600-square-foot private terrace for parties up to 50 people, such as rehearsal dinners or business cocktail

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

receptions. The apartments, rented monthly, also have small furnished balconies for a breath of fresh Colorado air. Three meeting rooms with complete A/V setups can be used separately or combined to accommodate up to 150 people. The Garden Room opens up to The Terrace, a lovely roof-top veranda for al fresco parties. With parking at a premium in Cherry Creek, underground overnight parking at only $10 is a welcome convenience.

The Weber is the Inn’s on-site restaurant open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The cozy bistro exudes ambiance that carries outside as a sidewalk cafe in summer months.

Under the warm glow of pendant lighting, diners can enjoy quiet conversation without the din of large dining rooms. Sunlight peeks through floor-to-ceiling windows for cheery breakfasts. Menus offer a nice selection of popular items like Benedicts for breakfast; soups, salads, sandwiches for lunch; and seared salmon for supper. Portions are goodsized and service is friendly.

Every last Friday from May through September, the Inn hosts a public Beer Garden on the terrace with German fare and suds for $5 per item. Live bluegrass music plays from 5-9 p.m.

Photograph by Kerry Koepping, Janet Koelling, KoKo World Photo

Couples seeking romance will find it in spades at the intimate inn. The Couple’s Retreat overnight package includes a bottle of wine and apps at The Weber, breakfast (in room, perhaps?), discounts for area shopping and parking ($219 and $239). With the Romance Package couples get a bottle of Champagne, dessert, breakfast with morning newspaper, parking and late checkout.

The fireplace in the deluxe room ($229) is nice for this offering, as is the balcony for breakfast in the classic room ($209).

The Inn partners with Cherry Creek Theatre, offering two theater tickets with overnight lodging and parking, a threecourse pre-fixe dinner with wine for two and breakfast for $279 in a classic room. The small 100-seat theater is a walkable three blocks away. Playing weekends in June is Amy Herzog’s dramatic comedy 4000 miles; The Last Romance, a romantic comedy about late-in-life love, opens October 7 for a month’s run.

The dog-friendly hotel even has a Pampered Pet Package with overnights for two. It includes breakfast for you and your mate and dog treats for Fido, plus a doggie bed in the room and free parking.

Shopping in Cherry Creek is unparalleled in the state. The indoor mall is home to 160

high-end retailers, and the outdoor Cherry Creek North district comprises 16 blocks of upscale boutiques, galleries, spas and salons, and restaurants. A giant summer sidewalk sale is a popular event in the hood annually, this year July 14-17.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market, the largest in the state, operates Saturdays May through October 31 and Wednesdays through September 30, in the parking lot of the Cherry Creek Mall on First Avenue.

The Cherry Creek Arts Festival, a three-day gathering of visual, performing, and culinary arts occurs over the July 4th holiday; and the Cherry Creek North Food & Wine festival will be held August 13 this year.

Inn at Cherry Creek 233 Clayton Street Denver, CO 80206 303-377-8577 cherrycreekinn.com Denver native Claudia Carbone is an awardwinning journalist covering travel, dining and performing arts.

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Mile-Hi Pampering The Ritz-Carlton Denver Unveils a Gorgeous New Spa

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he award-winning Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver recently unveiled a stunning new renovation that will delight health and wellness enthusiasts. Whether guests are in the mood for a hard-core workout or a day of pampering, the beautiful spa is a true oasis in the heart of downtown Denver.

Featuring a new 2,229-sq.-ft. fitness center located on the hotel’s Spa Level, guests can enjoy state-of-the-art treadmills and elliptical machines that feature built-in televisions and make use of a wide variety of strengthtraining equipment. And as is the Ritz way, complimentary chilled bottled water and earphones are provided.

The brand-new salon features large windows that allow natural light to wash over the sleek furnishings, textural wall treatments and vast spaces. Wingback chairs accent the lounge-like environment, and manicure, pedicure, hair and makeup stations accommodate guests’ every need.

The spa has also been given a facelift, with new reception area and state-of-the-art product lines including Sanitas, a Boulderbased skincare line and Eminence, a popular line of organic skincare products.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Spa guests will love the lineup of fun weekday offerings, including: Martinis & Massage Monday – enjoy a complimentary martini and 20% savings on any 50- or 80-minute massage.

Retail Therapy Tuesday – 20% savings on all retail purchases, and a complimentary Spa bath ball with purchase.

Mid-Week Spice-Up – Revive your tired feet with a 50-minute Champagne Peppermint Pedicure on Wednesdays, and enjoy a 20% savings.

Treat Your Toes Thursday – Indulge in a complimentary paraffin treatment with a 50or 75-minute pedicure.

Face-Lift Friday – Put your best face forward over the weekend after a 50-minute Nu Face treatment, which lifts and plumps the skin, for $115.

We love the spa and the fact that it’s so convenient for weary business travelers, or outof-towners just looking for a little pick me up.

Let the pampering begin!

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Photograph by Todd Powell Photograph by Sean Boggs

Photograph by Todd Powell

Spotlight: Summit County

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spring and summer fun in Summit County, there are literally mountains of possibilities from which to choose. From golf, cycling, hiking, festivals or great music, the choices are endless. Here we’ve compiled a lineup of some of the noteworthy events and activities slated for the upcoming season. Whether it’s Frisco, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, Copper Mountain or Dillon, your trip to Summit County is going to be memorable! hen it comes to

MAY Shakin’ at the Basin concert series, Festival of the Brewpubs and the Huck, Rock and Roll terrain park competition Arapahoe Basin With late Spring skiing, when all the other areas have closed for the season, Arapahoe Basin shakes it up with spring events that locals and visitors look forward to all year long.

Another favorite is The Grind, an uphill/downhill adventure race!

JUNE JUNE 2-5 WAVE: Light + Water + Sound, Breckenridge A four-day event featuring interactive art, temporary installations and musical performances centered on the themes of light, water and sound.

JUNE 4 40th Annual Run the Rockies 10k & Half Marathon, Frisco An early-season mountain race along the Ten Mile Range on the paved recreation path.

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

JUNE 11 The Highest Airshow on Earth, Dillon High-flying fun over the Dillon reservoir with entertainment at Marina Park.

JUNE 13-15 Ride the Rockies, Copper Mountain Riders from around the world compete in this six-day, crossstate tour, which includes a stop at Copper Mountain!

JUNE 16-18 Colorado BBQ Challenge, Frisco This beloved event is in its 23rd year and takes place on Frisco’s Main Street for concerts, pig races, a whiskey tour, firefighter cook-off, street performers and the best BBQ in Colorado.

JUNE 17 Lake Dillon Brew Fest, Dillon Official start to summer, with great music and great beer.

JUNE 18 Bacon Burner 6k, Frisco Heralding the last day of the Colorado BBQ Challenge, this 3.8 mile out-and-back fun run even includes a bacon aid station. Racers don tutus and bacon costumes for this lighthearted run.

JUNE 23-26 Breck Demo Days, Breckenridge Mountain and road demos, a poker ride, and guided tours.

JUNE 25-26 Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour Keystone A weeklong celebration of all things bacon, featuring thousands of pounds of bacon and bacon-inspired cuisine.

Great music, and Bacon Bloody Mary’s!

Photograph by Jack Affleck

JULY JULY 1-4: Breckenridge Creative Arts’ Street Arts Festival, Breckenridge Street, pavement and graffiti arts with outdoor murals, installations, workshops and pop-up art. 10K trail run, followed by the Firecracker 50 mountain bike race, the Main Street parade, family activities, live music, and an extraordinary fireworks display.

JULY 9 Copper Mountain Music Festival, Copper Mountain A foot-stomping good time at the 2nd Annual Bluegrass, Singer & Songwriter Americana Music Festival.

Photograph by Sean Boggs

JULY 16-17 Wine and Jazz Festival, Keystone Sip great wine as you enjoy live music from national jazz musicians.

SEPTEMBER 3 Copper Country, Copper Mountain A free Labor Day tradition, Copper Country celebrates the best of the American Spirit with some of the greats in country music.

Kidtopia, Keystone Expanded programming, including a Strider Balance Bike Series (Sundays); Wild West Night (Mondays); Family Nature Hike (Tuesdays); Go Fly a Kite! (Wednesdays); Meet the Rescue Dog (Wednesdays); Family Dodge Ball (Thursdays); Cupcakes and Canvasses (Fridays); Super Slimy Science (Saturdays); Face Painting & Cart-er-noon (Saturdays).

JULY 16 Mac and Cheese Fest, Copper Mountain Restaurants compete for the title of “Best Mac and Cheese in Summit County!”

SEPT. 3-5 Labor Day in Breckenridge, Breckenridge Bid farewell to summer with a rubber duck race, the Sidewalk Sale and the Great Divide Arts Festival.

AcroYoga Workshops, Breckenridge A blend of yoga, acrobatics and healing arts, AcroYoga builds trust and interpersonal connections, no experience necessary.

JULY 22-24 Courage Classic, Copper Mountain A popular 3-day cycling event over challenging mountain passes.

SEPTEMBER 3 Keystone Oktoberfest Keystone Colorado-brewed Oktoberfest beers from New Belgium, oompah bands and German fare.

JULY 30-31 Keystone’s River Run Village Art Festival, Keystone More than 80 artists from across the country showcase their finest works.

SEPT. 9-11 Oktoberfest, Breckenridge A weekend of parties, German cuisine and plenty of Paulaner beer, this is one of the largest Oktoberfests in the Rocky Mountain region and offers collectible steins imported from Germany.

AUGUST AUGUST 6-7 Keystone Bluegrass and Beer Festival, Keystone Down-home cooking, great beer and national and regional bluegrass acts.

AUGUST 6 Copper Triangle Bicycle Tour, Copper Mountain A 78-mile cycling event that is considered one of Colorado’s classic alpine road rides over Fremont Pass, Tennessee Pass and Vail Pass.

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 10 Dirty Girl, Copper Mountain A women-only 5k mud run that is not a race! Join fellow Dirty Girls to push and encourage tackling obstacles slightly beyond your comfort zone. Music and drinks included!

SEPT. 15-18 36th annual Breckenridge Festival of Film, Breckenridge Highlighting the art and craft of filmmaking, great film and a Children’s Program.

Saturday Night Campfire and Fireworks, Copper Mountain All summer long, come roast s’mores at the Copper Campfire and watch fireworks at West Lake in Center Village at dusk.

Keystone Bike Park, Keystone Beginning in mid-June, the Bike Park features 100 miles of lift services and singletrack mountain biking terrain across 55 trails. The mountain’s progressive terrain welcomes riders of all levels, and offers chairlift bike trays, a great skills park with improved jump lines, and berms and jumps.

Adventure + Après: 7 Summer Pairings, Breckenridge Adventure and après pairings for summer, including Big hikes, big appetites – hiking followed by monster calzones at Giampietro’s; Summer dogsledding and strawberry milkshakes; Wellness blend: SUP yoga and fresh juice.

Summer Concert Series, Dillon On Friday and Saturday nights from June 24-Sept. 10, the Dillon Amphitheatre plays host to great music in a picturesque alpine setting.

AUG. 12-21 Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, Breckenridge A great variety of performances, exhibits and talks, Inspired by themes of environment and mountain culture.

SEPT. 16-18 Breckenridge Wine Classic, Breckenridge Master sommeliers, chefs and winemakers invite the public to play, wine and dine.

Top Chef at the Breckenridge Distillery, Breckenridge This summer, Chef Daniel O’Brien (the Top Chef behind Washington D.C.’s Seasonal Pantry) will lead the way on the intimate and modern farm-to-table experience at the Breckenridge Distillery. Great food, spirit flights and killer cocktails!

AUGUST 12 Guitar Town, Copper Mountain Featuring 3 days of free acoustic and electric performances from guitar legends.

SEPTEMBER 17 The Copper Mountain Chubby Chili Pepper Fest, Copper Mountain A fun variety of chili concoctions with whiskey pairings and free live music.

First Firken Fridays, Breckenridge Blue Stag Saloon is partnering with Colorado breweries to create custom firkin (cask fermented) brews tapped the first Friday of each month during their new Firkin Porch Parties.

AUGUST 12 Ragnar Relay, Copper Mountain A 200-mile journey that begins at Copper with teams running over and around nearby mountains and finishing at Snowmass Resort.

AUGUST 20 Mountain Town Music Festival, Keystone A celebration of great music, warm summer days and all things Colorado!

AUGUST 26 32nd Annual Genuine Jazz and Wine, Copper Mountain A stellar lineup of national jazz talent, paired with fabulous food and wine.

OCTOBER OCT. 21-23 Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival: Still on the Hill, Breckenridge Featuring a grand tasting, cooking demos, restaurant specials, a downtown pub crawl, historic saloon tours and more.

Breckenridge’s Summer Fun Park, Breckenridge Featuring a two-stage zip line including a dual span of 392 feet and a second quad span of 1,095 feet. Soar more than 50 feet above the ski slopes at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. For the biggest thrills, combine the ride with a trip down the Gold Runner Coaster. And of course, be sure to check out mountain bike clinics, hiking tours, and a whole base area of big fun.

ALL SUMMER LONG! Dillon Farmers Market, Dillon One of the state’s largest open-air markets, including live entertainment, kid’s area and great views. (open Fridays 9-2 p.m.) the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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Photographs by Jack Affleck

Sit Down, Relax, Take it Easy Colorado’s Hot Springs Revive the Soul

By David Grimsland

C

olorado offers the most beautiful scenery and hosts a multitude of activities to keep you busy all through the year. One way to relax after these activities is to visit one of our incredible natural hot springs. Here is a sampling of some unique destinations.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Colorado’s newest wellness destination, opened in 2015 on the bank of the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. Guests can relax, restore and rejuvenate in 16 mineral water soaking pools with temperatures that range from 98° to 108°F or in the freshwater family pool and jetted spa, all surrounded by mountain views.

The onsite Sopris Café serves snacks, salads, sandwiches, and flatbread pizzas, plus hot and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

970-945-4766 281 Centennial Street, Glenwood Springs www.ironmountainhotsprings.com Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is located in Nathrop, Colorado between the towns of Buena Vista and Salida. Ideal

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

for family vacations, romantic getaways, mountain weddings, or corporate events.

Enjoy a one-day hot springs experience or relax with an overnight stay at this unique family-friendly Colorado hot springs resort.

719-395-2447 15870 Co Rd 162, Nathrop www.mtprinceton.com Healing Waters Resort & Spa At Healing Waters it’s all about the water!

Located in the heart of downtown Pagosa Springs, this hot springs resort boasts 100-percent natural mineral water in its swimming pool, hot tub and bathhouse facilities. Lodging includes comfortable rooms, suites with kitchenettes, and parkmodel cabins. Walking distance to dining, shopping and outdoor fun! Family-owned and operated, this resort has been serving Pagosa Springs since 1950. Open seven days a week and open to the public.

800-832-5523 • 970-264-5910 317 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs www.pshotsprings.com

Creek Side Hot Springs When you imagine your own private natural hot springs, Creekside Hot Springs Cabin is just that place. Tucked amid the lodge pole pines along Chalk Creek, it’s a private sanctuary for Hot Springs enthusiasts. The hot spring is private to the cabin so once you secure your reservation it’s all yours. While an occasional deer passes by; you’ll rarely encounter another human being. The cabin is cozy and fully furnished. The magic happens at night, star gazing while soaking in the artesian geothermal water and listening to the creek ripple by. It’s hard to believe places like this still exist. So get away from it all and relax at Creekside Hot Springs Cabin.

719-207-2100 15654 Co Rd 289A, Nathrop www.creeksiehotsprings.com Strawberry Park Hot Springs Just outside Steamboat Springs, nestled along Hot Springs Creek, lies one of the most spectacular mineral springs in the world. Relax in 104-degree mineral water, while Steamboat’s famous champagne powder gently collects in the surrounding forest. Enjoy a massage in one of the beautiful private massage huts or indulge in watsu therapy in the private pool.

970-879-0342 44200 County Road #36, Steamboat Springs www.strawberryhotsprings.com

FEATURING:

16 thermal mineral pools nestled along the Colorado River A large family pool with jetted spa Sopris Cafe with poolside dining and drinks

ironmountainhotsprings.com | 970.945.IRON (4766) | 281 Centennial St, Glenwood Springs CO 81601

the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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LIE DETECTOR

Caravan To Midnight host John B. Wells takes it to the Mainstream Media with his TV Internet talk show.

David Woo

BY JIM MARRS

A

fter thirty some-odd years in mass communication, John B. Wells is fed up with mainstream media. “Six companies control it all and CIA ‘owns’ every high-profile media personality. This is according to former CIA Director Colby. If you don’t believe me, you can look it up.”

And that is why he is the host of Caravan to Midnight, one of the most successful and wide-ranging, internet-delivered programs in the world. Five days a week, he provides his membership extraordinary interviews with some of the most notable and controversial personalities ever to speak their minds, revealing information and opinions that are simply not available from the mainstream media.

“Conspiracy is defined as deliberate concealment of something that should be generally known. So it’s not always a conspiracy theory. Sometimes it’s lie detection,” says Wells, in what has been described as a basso

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profondo voice instantly recognized all over the globe.

The Texas native got his start at the local KZDEW-FM station known as The Zoo. His immediate success as a host at the station granted him countless bookings and international voice acting opportunities, eventually prompting him to buy his own recording studio. There he recorded everything from TV and radio commercials; corporate narrations, including those for government contractors in aerospace; movie trailers; and the occasional bit part in movies like JFK—for which he did the opening narration—and Talk Radio, both by Oliver Stone.

The United Kingdom and Europe took a liking to his distinctive voice as well. BBC Radio 1, 2FM Dublin, and Hit 95 Berlin all had him as the image voice of their stations and networks. He even held a contract for 16 years in South Africa for Lexington cigarettes.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

“We went to South Africa every year. I fell in love with it at wheels-down: the culture, the food, the natural beauty and the people. Such an extraordinary place. It’s being destroyed, you know. And not for the reasons you may think,” he says, with a dour look on his face.

“The whole ‘freedom’ thing was nothing more than communism. I know, because I was there.

Once you know what really happened, it will make you sick. But then, once you know the truth about most of your so-called reality, it will make you sick. That’s why I do what I do now.”

The march of technology soon made a studio engineer, secretary, assistant and even a specially designed, acoustically tuned studio unnecessary. Live sessions over integrated services digital network were becoming a nuisance.

“These radio station producers were calling several times a day. I told them we’re dropping ISDN sessions because they’re making me nuts. Internet delivery only from

now on. Within two weeks, the word came down from corporate that ISDN was going away.”

Ahead of the curve again. Now a laptop and an interface for your mic was all it took, and soon, professional boredom set in. “Not working with a crew or even having human contact was a little dreary. Get the script from email, record the file and send it back over the ‘net. Next....”

In 2005, Wells contacted his friend and former Program Director from the KZEW days, Tom Owens.

As it turned out, Tom was Senior VP of New Content for Premiere Radio Networks. A couple of lunches and about a month later, Wells was put into a fill-in slot at Coast to Coast AM, the most famous overnight talk show in the history of radio. He did one show and nothing else happened for two years. But then occasional fill-ins eventually led to a regular slot on Saturday night in January of 2012.

And the same thing happened there that had happened at The Zoo: his listenership and the ratings went through the roof.

“Coast is still a haven for ‘woo-woo’ topics.

Bigfoot, ghosts and other flashlight-underthe-blanket-with-the-other-kiddies twaddle.

I did a little of that; you know, Satanists and Dark Side of The Moonies. But I was more interested in NSA whistleblowers like William

Binney, new technology experts and visionaries like Ray Bradbury, nuclear experts like Arnie Gunderson.”

Has he ever seen a UFO? “Yes, but you can’t talk about that to just anybody, let alone everybody. But yes, they are quite real.

Everybody in government at certain levels knows it and has known about it since Harry Truman. Look it up. 1952 UFO Flap. You’ll see.”

But his interviews on Coast to Coast AM were not limited to the esoteric or the arcane.

“You know, one night I had Paul Rogers of Bad Company, Jack Cassidy of Jefferson Airplane, Leslie West of Mountain and Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull each take an hour to talk about what ever happened to the so-called Revolution. All of these great artists on one show? Amazing! Especially Ian. He had a lot to say about the Islamization of England. He’s not happy about it, I can tell you. A great guy. You would think that show would have been made known through every PR outlet in existence.”

During his time at Coast, conspiracy was always in the back of his mind. The 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown led Wells to start his own subscription TV and talk show, Caravan to Midnight, as an awareness site and a place to get Geiger counters and countermeasures equipment.

Palis Michalis / Shutterstock.com

Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com

Through the years, Wells has interviewed such diverse subjects as famed sciene fiction writer Ray Bradbury and rock legend Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull.

Though “radiation shows” were feared to be ratings-killers, the ratings continued to climb and his new show was “not helpful politically” to Coast to Coast management. And so, after just a little over two years of regular programs, he was fired.

“Best things that ever happened to me in radio was going on to Coast to Coast and then leaving Coast to Coast,” he says, because his audience followed him to Caravan to Midnight.

“They are the most loyal listeners you could ever imagine. We are a huge family. I engage and they engage. We help people who need it. With information and sometimes with money. We bring light where there is none.

It’s not a job, it’s a mission. It always has been.

Did they really think I was going to stop? Too many people have been lulled into a sense of security that does not exist. Now it’s becoming denial. And denial is dangerous.”

So with this huge following and a track record of high ratings numbers, why has he not been inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame?

“You tell me.” He grins again.

Conspiracy?

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Sipping & Savoring Grand Valley Grand Junction and Palisade are Colorado’s wine country, but other adult beverages, lavender, local foods and abundant activities are growing reasons to visit.

By Beth Buehler

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olorado’s wine country isn’t just about wine anymore. The vines that helped put Grand Junction and Palisade on the map of culinary aficionados and travelers simply curious about winemaking have spread their reach. There is no doubt that grapes and all their liquid goodness still take front and center, but brewers, distillers, lavender growers, outdoor recreation options and vibrant historic districts have propelled the Grand Valley into a broader scope.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Branching Out Perhaps the biggest surprise is lavender’s entry on the scene with at least eight lavender farms and cooperatives now present in the Grand Valley and Colorado’s only Lavender Festival happening July 8 - 10.

“Lavender brings us into a whole different genre; it brings a connotation of France,” says Barbara Bowman, director of the Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau.

Lavender Festival garden tours on Friday focus on how versatile this beautiful herb is in planted landscapes and ends with lunch at Avante Vineyards. Farm tours that day demonstrate the distilling of lavender into oil and includes lunch at Z’s Orchard and an afternoon reception at Grande River Vineyards to savor lavender wine and lavender-inspired appetizers.

On Saturday, more than 30 vendors selling lavender products and more fill Memorial Park in downtown Palisade. Demonstrations,

seminars, live music, food and of course wine also are part of the experience. The day ends with a Feast in the Field at Adobe Creek Farm with Executive Chef/Owner Josh Niernberg of Bin 707 Foodbar preparing a four-course meal served outdoors. On Sunday, lavender farms along the Western Slope are open for tours.

Sage Creations Organic Farm, a nineacre certified organic farm located on East Orchard Mesa in Palisade, was among the first to plant lavender crops in the area.

In 2005, Paola Legarre and her husband, Bobby, purchased a cherry orchard and moved to Palisade the following year.

Today, Sage Creations has 3½ acres of lavender that is sold, turned into a line of lavender products, and is available for u-pick experiences. “It’s fun to pick lavender, and a lot of people like to take photos.

It’s an activity that especially appeals to women,” Legarre says. Open April through September, the farm also grows and sells sweet cherries and heirloom tomatoes and operates a greenhouse with lavender, heirloom tomato, culinary and aromatic herbs, and specialty bedding plants for sale.

The bloom time for lavender is from mid-June to mid-July, turning the fields soft shades of purple. “The second bloom is in September, which is a really pretty and a good time to visit with the wineries and wine festival,” she suggests.

Planted in 1991 at 4,700 feet in elevation, Canyon Wind Cellars is a family-owned, estate winery, meaning it is among a limited number of operations in Colorado growing all the grapes that go into the 17 or 18 varieties of wine they produce and bottle. Jay and Jennifer Christianson are the current owners/winemakers, and Jay’s parents, Norman and Ellen, founded the operation that has 30 acres of grapes and is known for its sustainable practices. “We are the first second-generation run winery in Colorado,” confirms Jay Christianson.

Spirits & Suds Rory Donovan also saw an opportunity with all the orchards nearby and launched Peach Street Distillers, which now produces 18 handcrafted spirits and operates a tasting room that has tours, a creative cocktail menu and a patio with great views.

More than 90,000 pounds of peaches and 90,000 pounds of pears are used annually, says sales and marketing manager Moose Koons, and the distillery’s grappa is made with leftover crushings from area vineyards.

With Palisade Brewing Company and DeBeque Canyon Winery’s tasting room nearby, it’s possible to sample local wine, beer and spirits all within one block. And don’t forget to check out the five other brewers in the Grand Junction, Palisade and Fruita areas.

Grapes Set the Stage Today there are 21 vineyards and wineries in the Grand Valley, and nearly all of them offer tastings and tours. Wineries like Canyon Wind Cellars and Two Rivers Winery & Chateau continue to take Colorado’s wine country to a new level, Bowman says, while newer businesses like Red Fox Cellars are expanding the boundaries. the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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It All Starts with a Moment!

There are fleeting moments in time when you know that you are truly alive and surrounded by life.

Find that moment and savor it.

OUR SIDE OF THE DIVIDE

deltacountycolorado.com 24

CEDAREDGE • CRAWFORD • DELTA • ECKERT • HOTCHKISS • ORCHARD CITY • PAONIA

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Two unique events the Palisade winery hosts involve the art of blending. Teams of two to four will compete in the Cutthroat Blending Challenge mid-to-late June, while the third annual Team Blending Challenge in late August is a bit more mellow with a blending seminar, 45-minute competition, lunch and awards.

Dessert and wine pairing also has been offered, and a land game event is in the works. For more information on both events, check out the website at canyonwindcellars.com Two Rivers Winery & Chateau also has a rich tradition, with the property built from ground up on 15 acres in 1999 by owners Bob and Billie Witham. Located in Grand Junction, the vineyard, outdoor pavilion and grounds offer beautiful views of Grand Mesa, Colorado National Monument and the Book Cliffs mountain range.

Two Rivers currently produces eight varieties of wines and 16,000 cases annually, which includes grapes grown on eight acres they own in Palisade.

The Chateau truly sets this winery apart, with 10 upscale rooms for overnight accommodations, patios and a conference/ event center perfect for parties, weddings, business meetings and relaxing. “Every room has a view,” confirms Hospitality Coordinator Brittany Witham-Crowell. “The reasons we located on the west side [of Grand Valley] are Colorado National Monument and access to great hiking and biking trails.”

Two Rivers also has entertainment on-site, hosting a Jazz Among the Grapevines summer concert series that benefits the Western Colorado Center for the Arts on the third Tuesday of the month from May through August. Wine is available for purchase and concert-goers can bring a picnic.

Two other local vineyards host concert series, including Grande River Vineyards’ Hear It Through the Grapevine, scheduled for Saturday evenings from June through August. Held since 1994, the concerts benefit area nonprofits and are a chance to picnic, see amazing views of the Book Cliffs and enjoy a glass of one of Grande Rivers’ Bordeaux-style wines.

Garfield Estates Vineyard & Winery, also located in Palisade and established in 2000, hosts free monthly concerts from May through September on designated Saturdays and Sundays. Enjoy a glass of wine while listening to music on the patio.

One of the newest wineries is Red Fox Cellars in Palisade, which is breaking the mold of winemaking by honoring tradition yet focusing on invention. One of its most unique products is Bourbon Barrel Merlot, which ages in bourbon barrels from various Colorado distilleries. Red Fox also crafts and bottles 44, a red blend, and Rosé Cabernet Sauvignon along with eight rotating fruit wines and ciders on tap in the tasting room, with plans to start bottling these in limited quantities this year. A recent event held at Red Fox was Yoga & Wine, with one hour of yoga followed by a social hour with a glass of wine, cider or wine cocktail included.

COLTERRIS TASTING ROOM Open Daily 10am - 5pm June through September; Off Season, by appt.

3548 E ½ Road, Palisade, Colorado 970.464.1150 • colterris.com

WE ARE.

THE VOICE OF COLORADO REAL ESTATE

livsothebysrealty.com 303.893.3200

the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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Photograph by Cat Mayer Studio 2014

Theresa and Scott High are doubly blessed, owning and operating High Country Orchards & Vineyards in Palisade, while Theresa owns Colterris Winery, offering the option to see both operations in action. The couple met while working in the wine industry and upon proposing “promised we would own a vineyard someday,” Theresa says.

That vow took a turn toward reality when they purchased a peach orchard on East Orchard Mesa in 1999. Today, they have 35,000 grapevines on 35 acres, 32,000 peach trees on 71 acres, and the rest of the 126 acres is devoted to cherries and vegetables.

This translates into 30,000 to 40,000 boxes of premium Palisade peaches (with many going to Whole Foods), produce sold to the public, several kinds of homemade salsas and preserves, and 3,500 cases of wine.

After aging its first batch of wine for two years, Colterris Winery released its first bottles in 2010 and now makes three varieties, including one of the few U.S. white cabernet sauvignons. Malbec will be introduced in 2016, she shares, possibly including the region’s first white Malbec.

In the next three to five years, the family hopes to make a reserve wine that combines the “best of all of the grapes we grow,” says Theresa, noting that they are committed to making Bordeaux-style wines using only grapes from their vineyard.

The orchard’s Country Store and the winery’s tasting room are next door to each other, with an abundance of roses and lavender planted nearby. The lavender is turned into products sold in the tasting room, and a short walk down a lane brings guests to a pavilion used for weddings and events that overlooks the valley and Colorado River. Visitors can buy wine and picnic items to enjoy the vistas.

Culinary Delights Foodies can savor wine and food pairings offered at downtown Grand Junction’s 626 on Rood, serving modern American cuisine and recognized as one of 10 Great Wine Bars by USA Today.

Bin 707 Foodbar’s Niernberg, a fifthgeneration Colorado native also focusing on American cuisine, is passionate about primarily sourcing ingredients from local and Colorado-based producers. The business was initially intended to serve 75 to 100 diners per day, but this number has grown to 500 to 600 per day and resulted in the establishment of West Slope Supper Club to handle off-site events.

The new Grand Junction Food Tours offer tastes of downtown Grand Junction restaurants and sweet treat locations on select afternoons and evenings each week.

Speaking of samplings, Grand Valley Winery Association presents barrel tastings twice a year, in April and May, typically featuring several wineries, food paired with the wine, and opportunities to meet the winemakers and taste wines right out of the barrel. The tastings are so popular that they often sell out six to 12 months in advance, Bowman says.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Ways to Explore Tapping into unique ways to tour wine country is half the fun, with bikes, limousines, horse-drawn carriage, scooters, vintage cars and a bright pink Mini Cooper being among the options. Limousines and vintage cars are available through Allen Unique Autos in Grand Junction, home to a museum that features one of the finest private automobile collections in the country, owned by local Tammy Allen.

The vast majority of wine country is easily accessible by bicycle, with Rapid Creek Cycles in Palisade renting eight-speed cruisers, road bikes and electric bikes (all with baskets for stashing purchases and goodies). The business also rents mountain bikes to explore area trails and stand up paddleboards.

Or combine two favorite pastimes with golf and wine tasting packages for two or four people, including golf and lunch at the public 18-hole Tiara Rado Golf Course, a three-hour wine tour with Absolute Prestige Limousine and two nights of lodging at a hotel of the guests’ choice. The package can be booked by contacting Tiara Rado.

THESE ARE THE TREES.

T H I S I S T H E F R U I T. It’s hard to outshine a famous Palisade peach. Something about the micro-climate of this little mesa town just pushes them to sweet perfection. Which comes in handy when you use that fruit to push spirits to sweet perfection. So if you can’t beat them, why not drink to them?

PEACH STREET TASTING ROOM: 144 SOUTH KLUGE AVE., BLDG. #2 PALISADE, COLORADO 81526 PEACHSTREETDISTILLERS.COM

PEACH STREET DISTILLERY. HAND DISTILLED SPIRITS FROM GRAIN TO GLASS, RIGHT HERE IN PALISADE.

the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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Photograph by Cat Mayer Studio 2014

Other unique ways to explore the area are viewing the Colorado National Monument and catching a bird’s-eye view of area vineyards and orchards during a helicopter ride with Gateway Canyons AirTours or riding on horseback into the 36,000-acre Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area.

An especially sublime time to visit the Grand Valley is September, when temperatures are cooler, the grape harvest and second lavender bloom are underway and everything is beautifully green. Plus, Colorado Mountain Wine Festival, the state’s largest and oldest wine festival, happens on Sept. 15-18.

Last year’s festival action included a scenic wine country bus tour, Wine & Glass Experience by Riedel, and a winemakers dinner and chocolate and wine tasting at Wine Country Inn in Palisade. With more than 50 Colorado wineries, a grape stomp, live demonstrations and seminars and music, Festival in the Park in Palisade on Saturday was the pinnacle of the event, which wrapped up on Sunday with the Palisade Farmer’s Market and tours of area wineries. For more information and this year’s schedule of events go to coloradowinefest.com Every great excursion requires equally great lodging. Look at the vines right outside your window from Two Rivers Winery & Chateau in Grand Junction and the 80-room Wine Country Inn, located on 21 acres in Palisade that are adjacent to two vineyards. Sister properties Marriott - Downtown Fairfield Inn and Marriott – Downtown SpringHill Suites offer spacious guest rooms in Grand Junction’s downtown and are within easy walking distance to many shops and eateries. There are a host of bed and breakfasts in the Grand Valley along with several other familiar brand names around Grand Junction, such as the recently remodeled DoubleTree by Hilton.

Now is the perfect time to plan a summer or fall Grand Valley getaway to enlighten your senses, get outside and find out what eating, drinking and picking local is all about.

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Ideas for Great Picnic Spots Maison La Belle Vie Winery in Palisade – Purchase wine and a charcuterie board with cold meats, cheese, olives, hummus, fruits, chocolates and bread onsite.

Colorado National Monument – Enjoy a laid-back sunrise or sunset hike with a picnic in hand.

High Country Orchard/Colterris Winery – Walk to the edge of the property for a picnic spot overlooking the Colorado River.

Picnic provisions, fresh fruits and vegetables, and wine are easily purchased onsite.

Super Side Trip Nearby Delta County—with towns like Delta, Paonia, Hotchkiss, Cedaredge and Crawford— has 2,500 acres of orchards that produce Colorado’s second-largest peach crop as well as 77 percent of apples, 71 percent of cherries and 53 percent of pears, according to Kelli Hepler, coordinator of the Delta County Tourism Cabinet.

The second-largest grape harvest takes place within the county’s boundaries, making it no surprise that 16 wineries (10 with tasting rooms), primarily in Hotchkiss and Paonia along with two hard cider producers with tasting rooms, are based in Delta County. Classic winemaker dinners happen during fair weather at Stone Cottage Cellars, LeReaux Creek Vineyards and Gunnison River Farms, which partners with Jack Rabbit Hill Farm that produces wine, spirits and hard cider, grows hops and raises sheep, cattle and chickens. There is no need to go home early as LeReaux Creek Vineyards and Gunnison River Farm both offer accommodations.

Living Farm Café and Inn in Paonia is hosting winemaker and brewmaster dinners on the second Tuesday of each month. A few other memorable ways to experience Delta County, according to Hepler, are cooking and wine tasting classes at LeReaux Creek Vineyards, bike to farm and wine tours, and Celebrate the Fork in Hotchkiss on Aug. 28-29 with a winemakers dinner, dance, arts and crafts festival, and concerts. Also don’t miss the chance to stay at the upscale Smith Fork Ranch in Crawford.

Find out more …

626 on Rood, www.626onrood.com Allen Unique Autos, www.allenuniqueautos.com Bin 707 Foodbar, www.bin707.com Canyon Wind Cellars, www.canyonwindcellars.com Colorado Mountain Wine Festival, www.coloradowineexperience.com/colorado-wine-festivals/ Colterris Wines, www.colterris.com & High Country Orchards, www.highcountryorchards.com Delta County Tourism Cabinet, www.deltacountycolorado.com Garfield Estates Vineyard & Winery, www.garfieldestates.com Grand Junction Food Tours, www.grandjunctionfoodtours.com Grand Junction Visitor & Convention Bureau, www.visitgrandjunction.com Grande River Vineyards, www.granderivervineyards.com Lavender Association of Western Colorado & Lavender Festival, www.coloradolavender.org Palisade Chamber of Commerce, www.palisadecoc.com Peach Street Distillers, www.peachstreetdistillers.com Rapid Creek Cycles, www.rapidcreekcycles.com Red Fox Cellars, www.redfoxcellars.com Sage Creations Organic Farm, www.sagecreationsorganicfarm.com Two Rivers Winery & Chateau, www.tworiverswinery.com Wine Country Inn, www.coloradowinecountryinn.com Mistalynn Meyeraan CVB/Tourism Office Sources Grand Junction VCB 970-244-1480 mistalm@ci.grandjct.co.us

Barbara Bowman Director Grand Junction Visitor & Convention Bureau 970-261-1052 cell Barbarab@gjcity.org

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Kelli Hepler Coordinator Delta County Tourism Cabinet 970-874-9532 o 970-471-9621 c kelli@deltacountycolorado.com

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GETAWAYS

Colorado is known for its fabulous resorts, which run the gamut from charming boutique hotels to stately structures that are truly the discriminating traveler’s delight. Here we offer an up-close look at some of these special destinations.

By Ellen Gray

St. Regis Aspen

Steps away from the base of the fabulous slopes of Aspen, the St. Regis Resort stands majestically. The hotel is a story of sophisticated luxury, with no detail left to chance. From classic guest rooms to the Presidential Suite and Residence Club, accommodations are top-tier, replete with custom furnishings including a leather bed and desk designed by Ralph Lauren, 40in. flat-screen televisions, spacious marble bathrooms with double vanities, plush bathrobes and Reméde bath products.

The junior suites offer stunning mountain, town or courtyard views, and of course, butler service. The 17 one-bedroom and loft suites include one or two fireplaces, two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. For guests desiring a “bit more” space, the three Presidential Suites overlook breathtaking mountain vistas, and are reminiscent of a late 19th Century mountain manor. The high-ceilinged living area is appointed with custom furnishings including antiqued leather club chairs, a baby grand piano and powder room. And of course, a butler stands at the ready, whether

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

it’s to unpack (or repack) your bags, shine shoes or press garments, or serve up some hot, fresh coffee.

The Reméde Aspen Spa is an experience unto itself, and was voted No. 1 in the world

by Travel+Leisure. Champagne and pampering are just part of the pleasure, as spa guests are treated to a world of relaxation and rejuvenation in the oxygen lounge, steam caves, cold plunges, hot tubs, fitness center and Confluence waterfall.

Dining is a journey of good taste at the St. Regis Aspen. From intimate lounges to poolside dining, both food and service are impeccable.

Sip a cocktail on the Fountain Terrace which opens up to the splendor of Aspen Mountain, or take it indoors for a cozy fireside respite at Shadow Mountain Lounge, where Afternoon Tea is always a treat. Don’t miss the St. Regis Champagne Sabering, a tradition started by John Jacob Astor IV when he founded the first St. Regis Hotel in New York around 1904. Here, guests gather for a ceremonial champagne sabering to celebrate the transition from day to night, and the tradition continues in Aspen every day at sunset.

Cocktail hour over, it’s time for some fabulous food, and everyone will love the newest signature restaurant, Trecento Quindici Decano for contemporary Italian and American cuisine. Chefs Club by Food and Wine is the resort’s innovative restaurant concept, Food and Wine’s Best New Chef award winners rotate the menu annually and make special guest appearances to showcase their dishes.

This summer, the resort introduces the Colorful Colorado Package, which includes a three-night stay, picnic breakfast at the base of the iconic Maroon Bells, a guided 12-mile hike to Crested Butte and a private flight from Crested Butte to Aspen via helicopter.

A wonderful way to see the gorgeous wildflowers, and an experience that will long be remembered. Truly, the St, Regis Aspen Resort stands out as a place like no other!

StRegisAspen.com

Madeline Hotel and Residences

In the picture-perfect town of Telluride, a sparkling gem nestles among the captivating San Juan mountain range. The Madeline Hotel and Residences, located in Mountain Village above the town, is designed to deliver the very best … in accommodations, ambience, food and service. The rooms are second to none, and the amenities are top of the line. And best of all, the slopeside location means it’s just steps away from the gondola – and world-class skiing and hiking.

Slopeside guestrooms behold stunning views of the snowcapped mountains, and in the suites gas fireplaces cast a warm glow throughout. All rooms feature plush linens, luxuriously appointed baths and cozy, elegant furnishings.

In the town of Telluride, it’s all about dogs and their humans, and the Madeline Hotel makes sure that the furry set is well taken care of while on vacation. Ranked as one of the most pet-friendly hotels around, the 123-room hotel caters to dogs, with special pricing and amenities designed especially for pups.

The culinary offerings at the hotel are top-notch, and menus take advantage of neighboring farms and artisans for the freshest ingredients available. In fact, nothing compares to the beautiful Mountain Village setting, where guests can cozy up to the outdoor fire table and listen to live music and

watch the world go by. The hotel’s signature restaurant, M Cub, serves as Telluride’s quintessential gathering spot, replete with cozy sitting areas, indoor/outdoor dining and bar and game room. The Black Iron Kitchen & Bar is a personality unto itself, and offers up every major event on multiple televisions, live music and casual modern mountain cuisine. But wait, there’s more. The new Dylan’s Candy Bar, wildly popular among the young crowd, features confections from around the world, and will satisfy even the most discriminating sweet tooth. And coffee aficionados, worry not. Starbucks is located onsite, serving it right every time.

And then there’s the spa. At 10,000 feet in the air, guests can savor a spa treatment that, as the hotel says, brings them halfway to heaven. Inspired by high alpime surroundings and active lifestyles, the spa offers specially designed deep tissue treatments that allow guests to play hard and soothe sore muscles. The Madeline Studio is relaxing and modern, with white oak-stained floors and contemporary lighting. Guests can choose to participate in yoga or Pilates, or have a hot stone or Swedish massage. The sky is the limit, and this one truly feels like you’ve touched the sky!

MadelineTelluride.com

Sonnenalp Resort

Amid the backdrop of the picturesque Vail mountains, nestled cozily in the base of Vail Village, Sonnenalp Resort is a haven for travelers who appreciate an escape from the ordinary. Old World elegance intermingles with a spirited Western independence in this wonderful resort that is surrounded by worldclass skiing, golf, dining and shopping.

Owned and operated by the Faessler family, the hotel’s roots trace back nearly 100 years to Ofterschwang, Bavaria, where the family opened a hotel specializing in personalized service in breathtaking surroundings. This was the inspiration behind the Sonnenalp name, which literally translated, means sun on the Alps. The Faessler’s love of the Vail Valley led them to open the Sonnenalp Resort in 1979, and the staff’s commitment to Gemutlichkeit, a dedication to making the guest experience one that will be treasured, is well appreciated among guests who return time and again.

Service is the word of the day, from the moment guests arrive and are welcomed by name. When it’s time to ski, equipment is brought to the lift, dinner reservations are made and shopping recommendations are always available. Best of all, the feeling of a home away from home is not only encouraged, it’s also a state of mind, as guests sit in the hotel’s majestic living room (okay, it’s actually the lobby), lounging in robe and slippers, reading a favorite novel while sipping hot chocolate or indulging in wine and cheese. In winter months, live entertainment can be heard in an apres ski setting, and best of all, guests’ favorite wine is readily available at day’s end.

The 112 guest suites and 15 hotel rooms boast heated marble floors in the bathroom, European goose down comforters, and the soothing sound of Gore Creek just outside the balcony door. The resort’s signature restaurant, Ludwig’s, is a favorite, and breakfast in the sun-filled dining room is a must, replete with mouthwatering European pastries, fresh fruit and delicious egg dishes.

In summer months the hotel will prepare a box lunch for guests to take on a hike, and at day’s end there’s nothing more memorable than a candlelight dinner, complete with wine from the award-winning wine cellar.

Pampering is always a plus, and the 10,000 sq. ft. European Spa at the Sonnenalp Resort provides a healing retreat. Whether it’s massage, hydrotherapy, yoga or something else, this is truly a luxurious way to end a day … or being anew. The spa lobby beckons with

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Photograph by Todd Winslow Pierce

a stunning circular fireplace, and relaxation is the word of the day, with subtle aromatherapy, calming music and soft candlelight. Within the meditation room, sunlight streams across the pines through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Too sedentary? When you’re ready for a workout, a personal trainers is on hand to put you through your paces.

When ski season is wrapped up, it’s time to move outside where a beautiful indoor/ outdoor pool and gorgeous pool deck beckon all year long. Whirlpools are a great place to unwind with a fruit drink or glass of wine, and in the warm months the area blooms with flowers. Golfers will love the majestic links of the Sonnenalp Golf Club, just 15 minutes from the hotel. The 18-hole Scottish links course is set among the spectacular scenery of the Colorado Rockies, and elevated tees provide unparalleled mountain views. A truly remarkable property in Vail, Colorado!

Sonnenalp.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Photograph by Todd Winslow Pierce

Photograph by Zach Mahone

Gateway Canyons Resort

One of Colorado’s most breathtaking resorts is nestled near the Colorado/Utah border, at the convergence of five majestic canyons. From the moment you arrive here, you know immediately this will be no ordinary getaway. The resort is awash in adobe-style southwestern architecture, tall cottonwood trees and irrigated green fields that stand in stunning contrast to the red canyon walls that were once the home of the ancient Puebloans.

The resort offers more than 6,000 acres of natural splendor that still today stands in its most primitive state, including one of the world’s only locations where Precambrian rock is still visible to the human eye. The resort is just steps away from one of the highest concentrations of dinosaur fossils on the planet, yet the luxury that abounds within the rooms and amenities belies the rustic world outside.

“Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa is a one-of-a kind combination, encompassing a dramatic and awe-inspiring environment, paired with one of the finest guest experiences and services around,” says General Manager Rudy Sharp. “Guests have the opportunity for personal growth and enrichment, plus endless opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime experiences and memories.”

With its 58 guest rooms and suites and 14 casitas, fabulous dining and spa – not to mention activities galore, this Southwestern Colorado resort is one of a kind. Part of the

Noble House Hotels & Resorts Collection, the resort is owned and operated by John Hendricks, founder and former Chairman of global media company Discovery Communications (parent of Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet), and founder of CuriosityStream, a multi-platform service delivering a host of content on a variety of topics (curiousitystream.com).

The beautifully appointed rooms and suites in the Kiva Lodge and Kayenta Lodge are indeed the lap of luxury, featuring pillow-top beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, and spacious quarters. Ranging in size from 4751,100 sq. ft., both offer 42” flat screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi and workstations, and the two-bedroom Kiva Suites have private outdoor terraces with hot tubs and gas fireplace. The two signature rooms of the Kayenta Lodge, which opened in 2012, offer oversized private outdoor courtyard with inground hot tub and gas fire pit.

The recently opened Palisade Casitas are set apart from other lodging, and each of the 14 structures offer the ultimate private retreat. Featuring 875 sq. ft. to 2,075 sq. ft. of luxurious living, each Casita boasts custom artisan furnishings and hand-carved doors from Peru. One-of-a-kind Turkish rugs and custom-designed textiles reflect the crystalblue skies and turquoise shades that are signatures of the American Southwest.

Vaulted open-beam ceilings separate the master bedroom, five fixture bathroom and free-standing tub and outdoor garden shower,

private outdoor patios with fire pit and massive windows that overlook the towering Palisade rock formations. As an added touch, Casita guests have a butler on hand to assist them with their every need.

And best of all, there are activities galore that cater to every type of guest. “The list of unique experiences at Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa is almost too extensive to list,” says Sharp. “From our world-class Gateway Canyons Auto Museum, to our own Curator of Curiosity, Zebulon Miracle, who will take you on tours of some of the oldest dinosaur track sites in the country, to the locally sourced food, plus our Gateway Canyons Air Tours or Driven Experience Rentals and Pro Baja four-wheel experiences, there is something for everyone at the resort. And maybe the most impactful ingredient is the incredible natural setting, a combination of inspiration and serenity that cannot be matched.”

GatewayCanyons.com

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Limelight

A little bit irreverent, a lot of fun, and the epitome of elegance. This is what makes the Limelight Aspen special, and this is what keeps guests returning time and again. Back in the day, this now stunning hotel housed “The Ski and Spur Bar, where outlaws and skiers would come to imbibe. Later, it became a popular dinner theater and lively nightclub, headlined by The Limeliters, which drew large crowds and entertainers such as Judy Collins and The Smothers Brothers.

In 2005, the Paas family, which now owned the property, razed the Limelite Lodge and rebuilt a 126-room hotel, which was sold to the Aspen Skiing Company in 2010. And today, the hugely popular hotel stands boldly at the corner of Monarch Street and Cooper Avenue in Aspen, welcoming visitors to come in and enjoy a little something different.

Rooms and suites are spacious and sunny, with high ceilings, big windows, contemporary décor, oversized closets, plush bedding and granite and marble finishes. This fun hotel is not only something to see, it’s also pet friendly! Complimentary bowls and placemats

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are provided for your canine companions, but it is requested that pets stay out of the bar and lounge area when food is served!

For those wanting a bit more than a hotel room, or perhaps a lot more, the Penthouse Suite is a winner. With 1,300 square feet of exquisitely decorated space, guests can enjoy expansive living room complete with fireplace and entertainment system. A six-seat dining table and full-sized kitchen accommodate a meal fit for a, well, weary traveler or pack of partyers. Two master bedrooms with flat screen TVs, two en-suite bathrooms and complimentary Body Eclipse Spa Line bath products round out the inside. And on the outside? A grand outdoor balcony with sweeping views of downtown, Independence Pass and Aspen Mountain, and, oh yes, a fireplace for roasting s’mores.

Amenities abound, with complimentary transportation, cruiser and fat bikes, a fantastic (and free) continental breakfast, outdoor pool and hot tubs, spacious fitness room, electric car charging stations, and lots more. limelighthotel.com

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Troy Story Chef Troy Guard on cooking, community, and taking the Denver dining scene to infinity … and beyond

Photograph by Scott Dressel-Martin

By Monica Parpal Stockbridge

f you dine out in Denver with any regularity, you’ve heard of Troy Guard. He’s the one behind Larimer Square’s muchlauded TAG restaurant and nearby Los Chingones taco joint. He’s the one who opened TAG Burger Bar and, later this year, a second location in the former Sunnyside Burger Bar spot. He’s the guy we just saw take home first prize at Cochon 555 in March — that traveling culinary competition centered around heritage pork.

Troy Guard is, to many, a rock star here in the Denver dining community. Between his culinary innovation, his ever-growing restaurant portfolio and his ability to balance a family through it all, it seems there’s nothing he can’t do. But if you ask him about it, he’ll tell you that he’s just a regular guy.

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Photograph by Marc Piscotty

“I think of myself like anyone else,” Guard says. “I put on my jeans the same way every day, and tie my shoes, and go to work.

[Cooking] is just what I love to do every day.”

Let’s back up to a time before Troy Guard was a Denver household name. The eldest of five kids, he grew up on the island of Maui, Hawaii. Cooking was a big part of his life long before he knew he wanted to be a professional chef. “My mom was a flight attendant, so she was gone a lot. I helped out around the house and in the kitchen,” Guard remembers. His father was — and still is — a barbecue chef on the weekends, cooking kalua pigs in underground imu pits.

Guard describes a particularly special holiday tradition involving his father’s Hawaiian-style barbecue. “Every Thanksgiving, to this day, he digs a hole and tells everyone to show up at six in the morning with their turkeys. He wraps them in aluminum and chicken wire, puts them in the fire pit, and covers them with banana leaves, burlap sacks, rocks, and dirt. Six hours later, the turkeys are done.”

Although memories like these continue to inspire Guard’s cooking today, it wasn’t until he was 16, when his parents thought it was high time he get a job. that he found himself in a restaurant kitchen. “It was the first job I could find that was closest to my house,” he says, “so I kind of fell into it.” Guard started as a dishwasher and worked his way up, all the while admiring the gritty cooks who ruled the kitchen. “The were the renegades, the badasses,” Guard remembers. “I wanted to be like them.”

Guard continued working in restaurant kitchens through high school and junior college. He’d moved to the mainland at age seven, and at 21 decided to move back to Maui to work for culinary legend Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s. “At the time, east meets

west cooking was just coming into its own,” Guard recalls. “No one else was really doing fusion cooking, which was why it was so exciting.” It was here that he experienced what he calls his “aha moment.”

“The dish was Opakapaka,” Guard says, describing the Hawaiian pink snapper swimming in a creamy beurre blanc-based Thai curry and topped with spicy stir-fried vegetables. Guard had never tasted anything like it. “I thought I knew how to cook, but I realized then that I knew nothing.”

Working at Roy’s was formative for Guard.

He learned about farm-to-table cooking before it became a common term. He bought tuna and opah from fishermen right off the docks. He learned to use fresh tomatoes, onions, papayas and guavas, all from local farmers. “I had never seen or done anything like that before,” he says. “I started from scratch again, and worked my way up.”

And up he went. After three years at Roy’s on Maui, Guard moved to Hong Kong to open another location there. “If I was going to learn Asian food, why not live in Asia?” he remembers thinking. From there, he went to Tokyo, then Singapore, then New York.

He was young and unfettered, moving from one adventure to the next. “I didn’t care how much I got paid,” he says. “I just cooked, and it felt really good.”

By the time he reached his early thirties, Guard found himself in Denver working with notable chefs like Richard Sandoval to open Zengo, helping to create a never-before-seen Latin American and Asian fusion restaurant concept. He later opened Nine75 and Ocean, and eventually began to consider opening a restaurant of his own in the Mile High City. “I thought, if I never try it, I’ll always say ‘what if.’ I figured that, if I failed, I could always get another job,” he says. “I went with my gut.” the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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Photograph by Marc Piscotty

In 2009, Guard opened TAG, christened with his own initials (that “A” stands for Atherton, a family name). This first restaurant aimed at achieving his goal for a chef-driven, innovative destination with inventive items like Taco Sushi and Flash Seared Hamachi with Pop Rocks, anchored by classic NY Strip and seared and confited Canadian Duck. If time is any indicator, he’s succeeded — yet he remembers being challenged immediately by the increased demand and plunging economy. “Going from chef to owner meant that everything was 10 times harder. I was constantly learning, growing, educating myself, and adapting … otherwise, I could have closed the place,” he recalls somberly.

“But the next thing I knew, someone was asking me to open another spot.”

Just like that, Guard found himself laying the foundation of an empire. After TAG came TAG Raw Bar, which later morphed into Bubu — a fresh fast-casual eatery with two locations, named for the snack-worthy puffed rice treat Guard grew up eating in Hawaii. After that, Madison Street opened in Congress Park, later updated to TAG Burger Bar to focus on his winning burgers. 2013 was a big year, when Guard opened his graffitied

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taco joint called Los Chingones; a dessert bar called Sugarmill with partner Noah French; and an upscale, wood-fired steakhouse called Guard & Grace. He hints at expanding the latter out of state in the near future. Los Chingones has proven so successful that a second opened in DTC, and yet another is slated for Stapleton — where he’ll also open a new breakfast restaurant this year. As if that weren’t enough, he’s got a Mediterranean concept planned for River North (RiNo) in June, and a family-friendly restaurant will open its doors on the corner of 32nd Avenue and Perry Street in early 2017.

“It’s all been very organic,” says Guard of this seemingly breakneck growth. “I go by my gut. I have to believe it’s the right spot in the right neighborhood and deliver what the neighborhood needs. It’s a thoughtful process. And so far, so good.”

Through it all, Guard still sees TAG as his flagship restaurant. “We’re on Larimer Square, the best square in the city, and there’s a lot to live up to.” He goes on to say that all managers and chefs who work at his restaurants are trained in the TAG cultural values. As Guard put it, it all goes back to his Hawaiian roots.

“In Hawaii, we call it ‘ohana,” Guard explains. “Family.” He describes how he works to create an environment of humility, passion, and caring in every one of his restaurants — and at home, too, where he’s raising two kids with his wife and industry accomplice, Nikki. Even his restaurants resonate that idea of family: Guard & Grace is named for his daughter, Grace; Los Chingones is an homage to his brothers; and that Mediterranean restaurant we mentioned? “It’s going to be called Mister Tuna, after my dad’s nickname in Hawaii. He was always in the ocean, diving and fishing. The restaurant honors him, and the name makes me feel good.”

Those values of family and community are anchored deep into Guard’s psyche — and his business practices. Each year, he contributes tens of thousands of dollars to charity, and he recently recruited his management staff for a Habitat for Humanity build. On top of that, for the last six years Guard has participated in the Taste of the NFL — a charitable culinary event held every year on Super Bowl eve. And oh, do Guard’s eyes light up when he talks football. “When we got Peyton Manning, everyone got so excited. It only took one guy to get everyone talking about the Denver Broncos again,” he says. “It really only takes one person to make a difference.”

Recently, Guard harnessed that excitement and launched the Taste of the Broncos annual tasting event at Invesco Field at Mile High, with samples from more than 30 restaurants and mingling Broncos players to boot. (We can only hope that Guard’s food will be enough to keep Peyton in attendance.)

Of course, Guard’s restaurants aren’t the only booming developments in Denver. The past few years have seen unprecedented growth in the city’s restaurant offerings — Guard cites Acorn and Biju’s Little Curry Shop among his favorite places to grab a bite — along with an almost alarming increase in population and housing developments. Even from inside the TAG lobby, Guard can see the industrial cranes and towering ironwork expanding into a shrinking downtown.

“Change is inevitable,” Guard says. “I embrace it. In my opinion, Denver doesn’t get enough credit for how cool and dynamic it is. I’m glad I was here to see it and be in the midst of it all.”

We’re glad you’re here, too, Troy. With chefs like you, Denver’s culinary reputation is going nowhere but up. To infinity … and beyond.

An homage to his father, Mister Tuna will open in mid-2016 One of Guard’s newest concepts, Mister Tuna, will open in the INDUSTRY business and community development in RiNo this summer. Somewhat contrary to its moniker, the restaurant will focus on wood-fired and rotisserie grilled meats and Mediterranean fare. The best part? In place of a raw bar, Guard plans to install a pickle bar where guests can purchase vinegar-soaked novelties like pickled Colorado peaches. “I am always trying to do things a little differently,” Guard says.

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Anything

but Conventional The Inverness Hotel & Conference Center embraces a new era

by Monica Parpal Stockbridge

Photograph by Allee Photography

From the time you arrive, you can tell that The Inverness Hotel & Conference Center is out of the ordinary.

Just off the intersection of 1-25 and C-470, the Inverness occupies a corner of South Denver known as the Inverness Office Park, a mere 30 minutes from DIA (and right next door to quieter Centennial Airport) where its famed conference amenities magnetically attract professionals from all over the country.

The iconic, low-profiled mass stretches hulking wings across an almost surprising expanse, but its location—tucked into the Denver Tech Center and surrounded by low trees, duck ponds, and wide green fairways—makes it more pleasant than imposing. Step inside, and the decades of warm hospitality and modern touches illustrate an evolving balance of work and play that has kept The Inverness current on the ever-changing landscape of Colorado hotels.

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A Bit of History First opened in 1989, The Inverness Hotel was born as Scanticon Hotel and Conference Center—a now defunct brand known for its state-of-the-art conference and meeting room facilities. The purpose-driven design and reputation stuck, but the ownership and name changed after only a few years.

In 1995, Destination Hotels (a subsidiary of Lowe Enterprises Investment Management) acquired the property and rechristened it The Inverness Hotel.

Today, the AAA Four-Diamond Inverness Hotel & Conference Center is freely making its way into a new era, marked by new ownership, dramatic updates, and a year of new renovations sure to re-invigorate the hotel like never before.

A New Era Takes Shape Last November, Destination Hotels launched a $1.3 million overhaul to The Inverness Hotel’s lobby, restaurants, and corridors on the main level. These renovations were completed in February 2016, and represent the first of several new updates to come.

“The new design incorporates distinct elements of Colorado and the West with a modern and renewed style,” says Managing Director Jennifer Atkins.

Those Rocky Mountain elements are somewhat subtle to the naked eye, and have much to do with the move toward a more energetic and community-focused vibe— bolstered by the work of Denver design firm Greenwood & Black, as well as paintings from local artist Grant Louwagie, among others.

Perhaps the most striking of these changes are in the lobby itself, where the hotel’s four stories seem both wide open and welcoming.

The newly whitewashed brick walls reflect light from the tall windows for a brighter, airy feel. New carpet and vibrant art enhance the space with pops of color, and modern light fixtures and table décor replace older greenery with eye-catching touches.

New furniture and community tables incorporate much-needed charging stations, giving guests comfy spots to work on their laptops or socialize over a cup of coffee.

Another addition? The new Elevate Coffee Bar, which borrowed space from the former dinner restaurant, Baca—now a smaller dining room for private and special events.

The flickering fireplace anchors all these modern updates with its warm glow. That glow extends to the corridors of the social and meeting wings, where new lighting and carpeting illuminate the hallways leading to the meeting rooms, reception areas, and social lounges.

The Meeting and Social Wings If The Inverness is known for any one thing, it’s the meeting amenities. After all, this has been a prime focus since the hotel first came to be, with more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and event space and 43 individual meeting rooms to its name.

Several customizable meeting packages offer flexibility and modern amenities like advanced audio-visual systems and high-quality Herman Miller chairs, not to mention continuous refreshments, spacious break areas, and extensive buffet or catered meal options.

All this is in addition to the full-service business center, operational since 1989 with in-house printing and graphic arts capabilities. Furthermore, the hotel is one of the few in the nation which still bears its accreditation from the International Association of Conference Centers, or IACC. The meeting wing’s recent updates include eye-catching local art, fresh carpet, and updated break areas.

On the other side of the hotel, the social corridor was also recently renovated to include fresh carpet, new art, and updated alcoves for quiet chats and coffee breaks.

The hallway leads to the gift shop, additional meeting rooms, and special occasion spaces.

Upper Mountain View—often called the greenhouse room for its glass walls and airy feel—holds up to 250 and is perfect for wedding receptions or mini trade shows. Across the way is the 5,400 squarefoot Summit Ballroom, customizable into smaller sections for meetings, banquets, and receptions hosting up to 650.

Getting Married at The Inverness To those who view The Inverness as one of Metro Denver’s finest conference centers, this may seem like an unexpected venue for a wedding. And yet, the hotel hosts an average of 90 gorgeous weddings each season. More than 25,000 square feet indoors and out are dedicated to wedding ceremonies and receptions, all backed by an experienced team dedicated to making every event totally magical. More than eight venues offer space for 50-400, including the expansive Summit Ballroom, the bright and airy Columbine Room, and the dreamy Upper Mountain View room.

Outdoor ceremonies in Centennial Gardens, Aspen Terrace, or Swan Gardens are framed by the property’s verdant fairways and foliage, and the floral features in spring and summer contribute pops of vibrant color. What’s more, The Inverness offers an impressive wedding amenities package that includes items like a complimentary guest room for the happy couple, a designer wedding cake, and a Champagne toast for every guest.

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A Fireside Meal As part of the recent renovations, The Inverness remodeled two of its eateries— Fireside Bar & Grill and The Garden Terrace.

Fireside aims for a modern yet cozy ambience with flickering candlelight and high tables surrounding a central bar. Couches and armchairs are gathered around a warm fireplace, and additional dining tables extend along a wall of windows facing the golf course.

Fireside easily harnesses some of that Western and native Colorado theme so crucial to the hotel’s recent renovation. Executive Chef Rodney Herwerth has created a medley of locally inspired eats, from craveable Candied Bacon and Colorado-made Cheese Curds to Bison Carpaccio and Pueblo Chile Crab Cakes. Soups include Chicken & Colorado Game Chowder, and Flatbreads make a great shareable snack or simple dinner.

For a traditional entrée, choose from the mains, grilled plates, or sandwich boards.

The Buffalo Meatloaf is a popular mainstay, as are the Crispy Colorado Half Duck, Rocky Mountain Trout, and Coriander Filet. The Fireside Bison Burger—topped with smoky brisket and whiskey-spiked onions—makes doubly sure you don’t walk away hungry.

And if you still have room, dessert includes a selection of homemade ice creams, Red Velvet Cake, and a Lemon White Chocolate Tart, among others.

The Fireside bar is key to the whole space, and a popular gathering spot before or after dinner. Here, guests can find wine, beers, and craft spirits, many sourced locally. Of the seasonal cocktails, the Upper Manhattan— made with 30-day barrel-aged Breckenridge Bourbon, bitters, and Bordeaux cherries over a ritzy ice ball—is especially well-liked.

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Award-Winning Sunday Brunch If we were to highlight only one meal, however, it’d be brunch in The Garden Terrace. Of course, a daily continental breakfast buffet is on-point—Huevos Rancheros and Hatch Burrito Grande, anyone?—but the Sunday Champagne Brunch is the show-stopper. This is where the restaurant really shines among locals, too, voted “Denver’s Best Brunch Buffet” by Westword and “Diners’ Choice” by OpenTable.

A tradition since the hotel first opened, The Inverness Brunch goes all out. Iced snow crab, house-smoked salmon, sushi and sashimi, fresh salads, and a selection of charcuterie and cheeses give you several good places to start. Rotating, chef-manned hot entrée stations like slow roasted prime rib are always in demand, as are the varieties of cakes, pies, pastries, and mousses from the hotel bakery. Plus, there’s live music from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and a Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar for those who prefer infused vodka over bubbles. Be warned: holiday weekends like Easter and Mother’s Day almost always sell out in advance.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

A Spot of Nightlife Of course, nightlife is an important part of The Inverness, and they’ve got that covered, too. On the garden level is The Spotted Dog, an English-style pub which has been operating for more than a decade. Here, hotel guests, afternoon golfers, and meeting attendees enjoy a place to unwind with happy hour specials, multiple HDTVs, and free darts and billiards. The Spotted Dog opens at 4 p.m. daily (conveniently when the adjacent Golf Grille closes for the evening) and stays open until 2 a.m. most nights.

A Treasured Escape at The Spa Located at garden level across the way from The Spotted Dog and around the corner from the fitness center is one of the hotel’s hidden treasures—The Spa at the Inverness. Step inside and the warm aroma of essential oils and soft lighting envelope you even before you slip into a soft terry robe.

The spa entered the scene in 2006—the 4,500-square-foot focal point of the hotel’s last major renovation a decade ago. Multiple treatment rooms, a lounge area, and amply outfitted locker rooms are all clean, calm, and comfortable. A co-ed lounge offers comfy chairs for luxuriating with a mug of chamomile tea or cranberry-infused water, and a private hot tub sits just outside on the connected patio. Spa treatments range from massages and facials to waxing and manicures, with 25-minute express treatments available, as well as full and half-day packages for when you want some serious “me time.” Both locker areas offer steam rooms, showers, and an array of personal care products for freshening up after treatments. The spa extends a warm welcome to hotel guests, local residents, or anyone just visiting the area—and we highly recommend a visit.

Change on the Horizon Spend some time at The Inverness, and you’ll quickly realize the staff’s resolute efforts at balancing work and play. To be sure, this is a major facet of the hotel’s shortand long-term goals. “Even two years ago, you’d be pressed to find anyone in the lobby not dressed in a suit and tie,” remembers Marketing Manager Kacie Armbrust. “We are stepping away from that buttoned up mentality in order to offer a more warm and welcoming feel overall.”

Late last year, Denver-based SilverWest Hotels LLC acquired The Inverness Hotel.

This new ownership bodes especially well for the hotel considering that President and CoFounder of SilverWest Hotels LLC, Charlie Peck, was also president of Destination Hotels for more than 14 years. “We’re thrilled to be acquiring The Inverness Hotel and Conference Center and add it to our growing portfolio of hotels and destinations,” Peck

says. “We look forward to implementing a plan that will substantially enhance the hotel’s appeal and our guests’ experience.”

That said, the renovations will continue in November of this year. All 302 guest rooms and suites will be updated with a more open floor plan, revitalized design, and, particularly, more outlets—essential for any guest of the modern age. Nothing will close, and the goal is for a seamless guest experience until renovations are complete in early 2017.

This unique perspective on the hotel’s past, and dedicated commitment to its future, ensure that the hotel’s reputation for conventions and events will only be elevated by the changes to come. We expect nothing less. After all, this is a hotel full of tradition, representative of the hospitality, energy, and ambition that Colorado has always been known for.

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SUPERBOW

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

OWL

By Brian Howell

Photograph by Ben Hays

Photograph by Eric Lars Bakke/ Denver Broncos

enver Broncos executive vice president John Elway and head coach Gary Kubiak shared a laugh and a hearty embrace as they stood on the podium and awaited the presentation of the Lombardi Trophy.

As they hugged, Kubiak said to his boss and long-time friend, “You can win it all kind of ways, baby! You can win it all kind of ways!”

On that night, Feb. 7, the Broncos came away from Super Bowl 50 with a 24-10 win against the Carolina Panthers, capping what was truly one of the most unusual championship seasons in NFL history.

With a new head coach, a banged-up quarterback writing his final chapter and an offensive line that struggled to block anybody, the Broncos somehow managed to ride their sensational defense and get just enough from the offense to come away with their third Super Bowl championship.

“I think that the credit goes to the players buying into what we were doing, understanding that we could get it done this way (and) that there’s not just one way to win,” Kubiak said after the Super Bowl. “You can win doing some of the things we’ve been doing. I think it’s just (to) their credit (and) hanging in there. Over the course of this past month, they’ve been committed to getting it done, and everyone has been all the way in.”

What made this such a unique championship was how the Broncos balanced an all-time great defense with an awkward mess at quarterback. They did it all while adjusting to a new coaching staff, as Kubiak became just the fourth head coach in history to win a Super Bowl in his first season with the team.

The Broncos figured to be in good shape at quarterback with future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning. Arguably the greatest quarterback in NFL history, Manning has more passing yards (71,940) and touchdowns (539) than anyone who has ever played the game.

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Photograph by Gabriel Christus

Photograph by Gabriel Christus

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The 2015 Manning was unrecognizable, however. Instead of carrying his teams to victories and slicing up defenses, the 39-year-old Manning was more of a liability. Through eight games, the Broncos were 7-1, but Manning had thrown just nine touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Game 9, at home against Kansas City, was supposed to be a celebration for Manning, who picked up the last three yards he needed to become the NFL’s all-time leading passer. The rest of the game was a nightmare, though, as Manning threw four interceptions. After the fourth pick – his league-leading 17th – early in the third quarter, Manning was benched for the first time in his career.

Various injuries led to Manning’s poor performance and benching, Kubiak said, and the Broncos handed the keys to the offense to young Brock Osweiler.

“I’ve prepared for this moment, obviously, for a very long time,” said Osweiler, who had, to that point, spent his entire three-and-a-half-year career as Manning’s backup. “I never wasted a single day. It’s a dream come true. It really is.”

Over the next six weeks, Osweiler guided the offense and led the Broncos to a 4-2 record, including a win against the undefeated New England Patriots. While not spectacular, Osweiler was better than Manning.

Manning spent most of those six weeks working by himself as he nursed his injuries and prepared to play.

Many people questioned whether Manning would ever play again, especially as Osweiler appeared to lock up the job.

Manning, however, wasn’t about to let that dreadful game against the Chiefs be the final image of him as a player.

For the Week 17 finale against San Diego, Manning was again in uniform, this time as a backup for the first time in his career. Osweiler and the offense sputtered that afternoon, and Kubiak added a bit more drama to the situation. Osweiler was benched in the third quarter, and Manning rallied the Broncos to a 27-20 victory.

As the drama at quarterback unfolded during the regular season, the defense was Denver’s saving grace. Led by charismatic linebacker Von Miller and veteran coordinator Wade Phillips, the Broncos had the best defense in the NFL in 2015. The Broncos led the league with 52 sacks and gave up fewer yards than anyone.

It was the defenses’ knack for making game-winning, game-changing and game-saving plays that was most remarkable.

Cornerback Aqib Talib had a 51-yard interception return for a touchdown that keyed a Week 1 win against Baltimore.

In Week 2, Bradley Roby scooped up a Kansas City fumble in the final 30 seconds of the game and ran it back 21 yards for the game-winning touchdown.

Interception returns for touchdowns keyed three other Broncos wins. Twice, the Broncos secured wins by forcing fumbles in the final minute of regulation or overtime.

Seven times, they held the opposition to 15 points or less.

“We almost led the league in every category, so we’ve got to say this is a special, all-time defense,” Phillips said.

After a stellar regular season, the Broncos defense was eager for the postseason. So was Manning, who had been declared the starter once again.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

“Any time something is taken away from you due to health, it does (mean more to get it back),” Manning said before the playoffs began. “When you’re not out there playing, it certainly does remind you how fortunate you are when you have the opportunity to be healthy and be ready to play.”

Manning wasn’t brilliant during the playoffs, but he did his part to help the Broncos beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, 23-16, in the divisional round, and the Patriots, 20-18, in the AFC championship game.

The defense was exceptional in both games, forcing a pivotal fumble against the Steelers, and battering Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

Somehow, the Broncos had cooked up a recipe to return to the Super Bowl for the eighth time in franchise history.

For Kubiak, it was his sixth Super Bowl with Denver. As Elway’s backup quarterback in the late 1980s, Kubiak got to three Super Bowls. In 1997 and 1998, Kubiak was the Broncos’ offensive coordinator. Those late ‘90s teams, led

by Elway at quarterback, were exceptional on offense and defense and won both Super Bowls.

This Super Bowl, played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., proved to be a perfect microcosm of Denver’s season.

The Manning-led offense struggled – gaining just 194 yards, the fewest total ever by a Super Bowl champion – while the defense turned in a dominating performance.

Against the top-ranked Panthers’ offense, the Broncos registered a Super Bowl-record seven sacks, with Miller, who was named the game’s MVP, getting 2.5 of those.

On Miller’s first sack, he stripped the ball from Carolina quarterback Cam Newton, and the Broncos’ Malik Jackson fell on the ball in the end zone for a touchdown.

On Miller’s last sack, he again stripped the ball from Newton; the Broncos recovered and set up the offense for one last touchdown.

“It’s so surreal,” Jackson said of winning the championship. “I was here two years ago when we lost it (to Seattle in Super Bowl XLVIII). Just to have that feeling from this to that, it’s just awesome. It’s truly a blessing just to be with these guys, be a part of this and be able to kind of go out there and dominate like we did today.”

Ultimately, it was Manning in the spotlight. After 14 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts – including a victory in Super Bowl XLI – he was released in 2012 because the Colts were unsure if he could recover from a neck injury that caused him to miss the entire 2011 season. Manning knew he could still play, though, and he came to Denver in 2012.

Photograph by Trevor Brown, Jr./ Denver Broncos

For three years, from 2012-14, Manning put up insane, record-breaking numbers, but he and the Broncos always fell short of that championship goal. Finally, he and the Broncos completed their quest together in 2015.

No, Manning didn’t play well this past season, but his final moment as a player, clutching the Lombardi Trophy in his hands, was befitting a man who had been sensational for so long. One month after the Super Bowl, Manning announced his retirement from pro football.

“It was extremely gratifying to finish with a world championship,” Manning said. “There’s no question this was a unique season and it had plenty of ups and downs.”

For the Broncos and their fans, though, the season finished on an up, and for the first time in 17 years Denver celebrated a Super Bowl championship. And, boy, did the fans celebrate. Two days after the Super Bowl, an estimated 1 million Broncos fans flooded the streets of downtown Denver for a victory parade.

“In terms of raw emotions from fans and raw passion, there’s really nothing like it,” Broncos president and CEO Joe Ellis said. “We are very, very lucky to have the support of this entire region, this community and the best fans in the NFL.” In 2015, the Broncos had not only the best fans, but the best team, as well.

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& QA

Chris Harris

By Brian Howell

hroughout the Denver Broncos’ run to the Super Bowl 50 championship, the defense received high praise all year.

It was a defense led by a couple of the game’s most colorful characters in Von Miller and Aqib Talib, as well as one of the most respected veterans in the game, DeMarcus Ware.

Cornerback Chris Harris was as good as any of them, and he played a significant role in helping the Broncos reach their ultimate goal. Two years after sitting out the Super Bowl with an injury, he was able to be a part of Denver’s 24-10 win against Carolina in Super Bowl 50.

A former University of Kansas star, Harris talked about the championship, that great defense and his remarkable journey to NFL stardom.

Q: As the clock was winding down at the end of the Super Bowl and it became official that the Broncos were the champions, what was that moment like for you?

A: It just seemed like everything, all the hard work we went through – losing the coach (John Fox) and having to bring in a new coach (Gary Kubiak) and putting in all the hard work we had to that season – it just all kind of came back full circle. It was just an unbelievable feeling. It’s a feeling that was hard to describe.

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Q: The Broncos had a first-year head coach, an aging quarterback (Peyton Manning) and a struggling offense. How did this team manage to put everything together to make this a championship season?

A: I had a hurt shoulder, too. It was just a major accomplishment. It made all the pain and everything you had to go through and fight through, it made it like, “Man, this is nothing. I’ll go through all that pain every time to win the Super Bowl.” Especially on the defensive side, we had belief that we were the best. We could be the best any time we stepped on the field and that we could win the games on defense. Once everybody got that in their head that we could do that, we were able to almost do it every week.

Q: Led by new coordinator Wade Phillips, the Broncos had a defense in 2015 that is talked about as one of the best ever. When did you realize this defense could be special?

A: You look around in training camp and OTAs, everybody is moving fast, everybody is on the same page. We won so many games that we didn’t score an offensive touchdown in. Once we realized we really had to be dominant every game, that’s when you start trying to be dominant every day in practice. That really brought us to the field (on game day), so we could play at an elite level every week and be consistent.

Q: Let’s rewind to five years ago, when there were 254 players selected in the 2011 NFL Draft and you weren’t one of them.

Were you surprised by that, and have you used it as motivation?

A: I was very surprised. Coming out of college, I had started in the Big 12 every game in my career, so I didn’t understand. I was definitely down and it had me in a tough situation, but I knew if I had one opportunity I was going to make the most of that opportunity. Denver gave me that chance and I was able to take it and run with it.

Q: You are now a two-time Pro Bowl selection, considered one of the best corners in the game, and a Super Bowl champion. Are you ever amazed at what’s happened during the last five years?

A: Oh yeah, I definitely get amazed, but I worked extremely hard and did whatever I could to get better each year. Same for this year. I feel like I’ve turned up my training to another notch this year and I feel like I’m going to have an even better season this upcoming year.

Q: Looking to the future, how big of a challenge is it to stay on top, not only as an individual, but as a defense and as a team?

A: It’s very difficult. Every year, teams are doing whatever they can to make their team better and you have to continue to work.

You’re down in the NFL once you start relaxing. I try not to be relaxed and try to improve every day.

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

MEAT ME at

MERLOT’S Exceptional

Experiences

10110 E. Dry Creek Road at The Shops at Vallagio (720) 744-2622 | eddiemerlots.com the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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Steak It’s Stock Show time in Colorado, and beef is on everyone’s mind. So when you ask “Where’s the beef?” we have the answer.

Here is our lineup of some of Colorado’s best steakhouses:

Bastien’s A local’s favorite for more than 50 years, Bastien’s is home to the sugar steak, a signature staple that is dusted lightly with sugar and grilled to caramelized perfection.

A unique atmosphere for a truly unique and delicious dining experience.

3503 E. Colfax Ave., Denver 303.322.0363 bastiensrestaurant.com

Buckhorn Exchange This historic establishment was founded in 1893 and boasts Colorado’s Number One liquor license. Founded by Henry H. “Shorty Scout” Zietz, one of the Old West’s most colorful figures, the place is a not-tobe-missed institution.

1000 Osage Street, Denver 303.534.9505 buckhorn.com

Capital Grille A gathering place for power brokers and the rich and famous, The Capital Grille is much more than a great steak, with a 5,000-bottle wine list, art deco ambience and beautiful mahogany furnishings.

1450 Larimer Street, Denver 303.539.2500 thecapitalgrille.com/Denver-co

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House Truly a classic American steakhouse, Del Frisco’s specializes in aged USDA Prime Beef, hand-cut steak, chops and fresh seafood. The atmosphere is everything you’d expect from a great steak place, and the hand-shaken martinis are an extra bonus.

8100 E. Orchard Rd. 303.796.0100 delfriscos.com/Denver

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Del Frisco’s Grille

Elway’s

Del Frisco’s Grille is Denver’s hippest new destination in the heart of Cherry Creek North. While not a traditional steakhouse, the beef is signature Del Frisco’s, and the cheesesteak egg rolls are a don’t miss. The ambience is gorgeous, chic and exciting.

100 St. Paul St. 303.320.8529 delfriscosgrille.com/cherry-creek

Denver Broncos legend John Elway and longtime friend Tim Schmidt teamed to open this wildly popular restaurant which since Day One has attracted a fun, highprofile mix of movers and shakers. The food is top-notch and the bartenders know their craft.

Locations in Denver, Vail and DIA 303.399.5353 Elways.com

The Denver ChopHouse & Brewery Nestled in the historic Union Pacific Building adjacent to Coors Field, this fun venue features a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and great food. Handcrafted Ales are brewed onsite, along with small batch bourbons.

1735 19th Street 303.296.0800 denverchophouse.com

Eddie Merlot’s Founded by a man who loves a great steak and a great glass of wine, Eddie Merlot’s is a welcome addition to southeast Denver. A recent revamp of the menu challenged the chef to find a new steak that ranked high in the “WOW” factor, and led to a 20-oz. Wagyu bone-in New York Strip that heralds from Greg Norman Australian Prime. The steak is buttery and tender, and the marbling head-and-shoulders above many other varieties. Paired with a phenomenal wine from the extensive wine list, this is guaranteed to “WOW” diners.

10110 E. Dry Creek Rd. 720.744.2622 eddiemerlots.com

EDGE Restaurant & Bar Executive chef Simon Purvis is a master at serving up delicious cuts of beef garnered from a local Colorado ranch.

EDGE is the city’s only restaurant serving a dry-aged Kansas City strip, cooked on a wood-burning grill.

1111 14th St. in The Four Seasons 303.389.3343 edgerestaurantdenver.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Founded in 1998 in Newport Beach, Calif., Fleming’s opened with a vision to create a unique steakhouse experience with an emphasis on generous hospitality, inviting atmosphere and the very fine aged USDA Prime beef. Great food, wine, sides and desserts.

191 Inverness Drive W. 303.768.0827 flemingssteakhouse.com/Denver

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse From a farm in southern Brazil, Fogo de Chao’s founders learned the art of cooking in the churrasco grilling tradition. The menu is rooted in the Brazilian tradition and is a unique culinary experience that brings diners back time and again.

1513 Wynkoop St. 303.623.9600 fogodechao.com

Guard and Grace A refreshing take on the big, fancy, modern steakhouse, Guard and Grace offers the gamut – delicious cuts of beef, a 4,000-bottle glassed-in wine cellar, and a visually stunning space that provides a huge change from the heavily dark wood ambience of many a steakhouse.

1801 California St. 303.293.8500 guardandgrace.com

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar

Rodizio Grill

Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon

Serving the finest cuts of beef, this Canadian steakhouse is West Denver’s answer to the clubby establishments that make up the downtown Denver scene. The steaks are the finest cut, aged to perfection and use a special blend of seasoning.

14065 W. Colfax Drive, Lakewood 303.238.7500 kegsteakhouse.com

The first authentic Brazilian Steakhouse restaurant in the United States, Rodizio Grill was established in 1995 by Brazilian native Ivan Utrera. Flavors are wonderful, reflecting the traditional “churrasco” (barbeque) style of dining derived from southern Brazil.

1801 Wynkoop St. 303.294.9277 rodiziogrill.com

Great dining featuring the finest aged beef from premium suppliers such as Harris Ranch Beef and Emerald Valley Ranch. The restaurant’s recently renovated dining room offers a great atmosphere, and the prized historic back-bar is a favorite gathering place.

109 Lincoln Ave., Breckenridge 970.453.9948 briarrosechophouse.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Flame

When Ruth Fertel opened the first Ruth’s Chris Steak House in New Orleans in 1965, it became a staple for politicians, athletes and businessmen. Today the restaurant is known for USDA prime steaks served on ceramic plates, generous portions and great sides.

707 15th Street 303.825.0713 ruthschris.com

Housed in the Four Seasons Resort Vail, Flame offers unique twists on classic steakhouse favorites. A great variety of prime steak selections, including a mouthwatering 32-oz. dry-aged Waygu Ribeye, this is a great steakhouse located in the heart of Vail.

1 Vail Rd., Vail 970.477.8650 flamerestaurantvail.com

Shanahan’s

Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse

From the décor to the fare, everything about Shanahan’s is first-class. The steaks indeed are not just good, they’re mouthwatering, delicious and prepared to perfection. A stunning bar in the center of the restaurant brings a great energy to the place, and in the summer a fun patio scene makes for great people watching.

This is a traditional steakhouse at its best – prime cuts of beef with sides that rival any establishment.

5085 S. Syracuse St. 303.770.7300 shanahanssteakhouse.com

Specializing in the highest-quality Colorado beef, lamb, pork and elk, special attention is paid to the flavor of every entrée at the restaurant. Juicy Lucy’s is located in downtown Glenwood Springs, down the street from the Glenwood Springs Train Depot and across the Colorado River.

308 7th St., Glenwood Springs 970.945.4619 juicylucysteakhouse.com

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks Extraordinary service and freshest ingredients are the backbone of this wellknown restaurant chain. Now part of the Landry’s brand, McCormick & Schmick’s steers clear of the “flash and dazzle,” focusing on simple food made delicious.

8100 E. Union Avenue 720.200.9339 mccormickandschmicks.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse With more than 69 restaurants nationwide, Morton’s has been serving up great steaks for more than three decades. First started in Chicago, the fare is consistently first-rate and a long-time favorite of Denverites wanting a delicious steak with all the trimmings.

1710 Wynkoop St. 303.825.3353 mortons.com

Ocean Prime Restaurateur Cameron Mitchell’s wildly popular restaurant is bustling with energy, serving up great steak, seafood, signature cocktails and an impressive wine list. The restaurant is truly a destination, with a great downstairs bar and relaxing upstairs dining.

1465 Larimer Street 303.825.3663 ocean-prime.com

Palm Restaurant The original Palm debuted in New York City in 1926, and is still family-owned and operated. The guest list reads like a who’s who, and the signature caricatures adorning the walls are a showcase of local Denverites and well-known visitors. And the food … exceptional!

1672 Lawrence St. in The Westin 303.825.7256 thepalm.com/Denver

Outside Denver The Fort This replica of Bent’s Fort, a famous Colorado fur trade fort is home to a true Colorado landmark, located near the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Familyowned and operated, True to its mission, The Fort serves up more than 80,000 entrees of buffalo annually.

19192 CO-8, Morrison 303.697.4771 thefort.com

Steak House No. 316 Aspenites Craig and Samantha CordtsPearce bring their love of New York steakhouses to the quaint mountain town.

Hailed as the “only true steakhouse in Aspen,” the food is phenomenal and the atmosphere dark and inviting.

316 E. Hopkins Ave., Aspen 970.920.1893 steakhouse316.com

Sheridan New Chop House A classic steakhouse in the heart of Telluride, this one-of-a-kind restaurant is acclaimed as one of the town’s best eateries.

A highlight is the nightly special, featuring Prime Coulotte Sirloin served in The Parlor and at the Chop House Bar. 223 W. Colorado Av., Telluride 970.728.9100 newsheridan.com/chop-house-restauranttelluride

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Family Ties BEST OF DENVER WEEKEND

By Rebecca Treon

An insider’s guide to Denver’s best family-friendly things to do this spring.

The Mile High City has been ranked the Number One place in the country to call home by U.S. News & World Report, which is no secret to the folks who have long called it home. Denver Hotel Magazine has collected the best family activities in the metro area from locals in the know—just think of this as your little black book when doing Denver with the kids.

BOTANIC GARDENS AT CHATFIELD We love the downtown Botanic Gardens (their Seedlings class, designed for tots, and the Mordecai Children’s Garden are a don’t miss), but the Southwest Metro outpost of the Gardens is worth a visit, too. Near Chatfield Reservoir (where there are miles of walking and biking trails, picnic spots, and even a ‘beach’), the Botanic Gardens at Chatfield is home to the historic Hildebrand Ranch, where you and the kids can experience what it was like to live on an 1860’s farmstead.

There’s plenty of space to run around, picnic, and play amid the working farm. www.botanicgardens.org

Photograph by Scott Dressel-Martin

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

DENVER ZOO Springtime at the Denver Zoo means babies—the nursery just welcomed a new (endangered) lowland mountain gorilla baby named Whimsy Adepa to its family, who can be visited in the Great Apes building. Wander the plant-lined paths of the zoo, where peacocks roam free, or check out exciting feeding times. Interactive exhibits will both educate and entertain, and kids can get in on the action with the chance to feed a giraffe or pet a rhino. www.denverzoo.org

Photograph courtesy of Denver Zoo

DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE The next-door neighbor of the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a classic destination. From the saber-tooth tiger that roars when fed coins to the mummy exhibit, the museum is stuffed full to bursting with things for families to do and experience.

The new discovery zone features a water park, there are wildlife exhibits that span the globe, a planetarium, an IMAX theatre, dinosaur bones (including one of an ancient wooly mammoth recently excavated near Aspen) as part of its permanent collections. The museum also features exciting and interactive temporary exhibits, like Chocolate, which explores the history of everyone’s favorite treat from the ancient Aztecs to today. www.dmns.org

PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL Everyone has to eat, and at Punch Bowl Social you can nosh on updated versions of American diner classics while you play at the same time. On the playtime menu: bowling, billiards, vintage arcade games, darts, ping pong, shuffleboard, and marbles. www.punchbowlsocial.com

ADAMS MYSTERY PLAYHOUSE This funky theater, located in a Victorian mansion in Denver’s historic Highlands neighborhood, has been the city’s best interactive theater for more than 20 years. If one of your clan is a budding gumshoe, they’ll love Adams Mystery Playhouse’s mysteries for kids—all G-rated and great for kids over five—a fun and entertaining cooperative performance where your kid gets to solve the mystery. www.adamsmysteryplayhouse.com Photograph by Chris Schneider

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53

Family Ties

BEST OF DENVER WEEKEND

DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM Just because we’re landlocked doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy creatures from the sea, thanks to our world-class aquarium. With exhibits that feature ecosystems from around the globe, there are plenty of, ahem, fish in the sea to observe. Favorites include the shark tank and the underwater tunnel filled with stingrays fluttering overhead, but an insider tip is the Aquarium’s mermaids.

These lovely ladies (who really do hold their breath the whole time they’re underwater) swim at select times and days in a choreographed underwater dance with an educational message. Bonus: The aquarium also houses exotic animals, including a sloth named Aspen and a pair of trained Sumatran tigers. www.aquariumrestaurants.com

Photograph by Rick Giase

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Denver’s Children’s Museum just underwent a multimillion dollar revamp, with a host of new exhibits both indoors and out.

Kids can explore role-play with exhibits like the fire-engine, the supermarket and kitchen, the giant tree with animal costumes, and the veterinary clinic. Scienceminded kids will love the bubble exhibit, the kinetic ball exhibit, and the water exhibit. There’s a new park outdoors, too, that replicates Colorado’s landscape and lets kids climb, dig, zipline, and splash. www.mychildsmuseum.org Photograph by Scott Dressel-Martin

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STIR COOKING SCHOOL

DENVER MINT

DENVER FIREFIGHTER’S MUSEUM

One of Denver’s favorite cooking schools, Stir teaches recreational cooking classes that make a popular date night, help you brush up on your knife skills, or teach you about an exotic cuisine. But they also offer a list of family-friendly classes where kids and their grown-ups can get cooking together. Classes like ‘Mastering Mac and Cheese’ and ‘Stuffed STUFF: International Filled Bites’ are a fun and interactive way to create something delicious as a family (plus, your kids will go home knowing how to make a meal … an added bonus!). www.stirtolearn.com

The Denver Mint is one of only a handful in the United States and tours allow for a unique experience to learn how our country’s currency is produced. Here, you can learn about the craftsmanship involved in each step in the process, then take a tour of the facility, where you’ll see coins being pressed.

At the gift shop, you’ll be able to buy collectible coins made onsite. Note: tours are free, but by reservation only, and they fill up fast. www.usmint.gov

Denver’s original Station House 1, which dates back to 1909, houses select exhibits exploring the rich history of area firefighters. An array of antique fire trucks, displays that delve into the lives of minority firefighters and firefighter artists, hands-on activities that engage kids to dress as firefighters and practice fire safety—they’ll even get to slide down the fire pole! www.denverfirefightersmuseum.org

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

DENVER ART MUSEUM The multi-level, dual building DAM is anything but stuffy. With one of the largest collections of Western art and Native American art and artifacts, the Denver Art Museum also features compelling temporary exhibitions, like this spring’s Samurai exhibit. The permanent collections range from Pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary painting and sculpture.

To engage kids, get a Family Backpack, geared to match up with a collection full of art-making, games, and puzzles. Galleries also feature boards with I-Spy, Bingo, and Memory-like games designed to engage kids with the artworks, and there are a number of art-making stations throughout the museum.

Some galleries include dress-up clothes and building materials that relate to the art. A number of community events happen yearround, from a Native-American Pow-Wow to Día del Niño, celebrating children, in April. Pro tip: Don’t miss the intricate sand mandala in the Asian collection. www.denverartmuseum.org

MOLLY BROWN HOUSE

ADVENTURE SCAVENGER HUNT

Visit the onetime home of Titanic survivor, philanthropist, and Denver society dame Molly Brown. Tour the restored Victorian home and learn about her rags-to-riches story, starting with her marriage to a mine baron. The tour showcases the home’s unique features and trends of the Victorian era, and finishes with Molly’s social activism after the Titanic tragedy. In April, they host special Titanic tours and year round there are several special events, from high tea to a Victorian Halloween party. www.mollybrown.org

Denver’s downtown landscape becomes a giant game board with Urban Adventure Quest, a family-based scavenger hunt that is like the hit TV show The Amazing Race combined with a tour of the city. Guided by a smart phone, groups explore both well-known and hidden gems around town while solving clues and learning local history at the same time. Starting at the Colorado State Capitol, you’ll wind through Denver’s centers of arts and culture and through the gardens and courtyards of buildings rich with history. Stop for a bite, some ice cream, and some window shopping along the 16th St. mall on this self-paced adventure. www.urbanadventurequest.com

DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Get a little slice of Broadway without heading to the Big Apple—Denver gets a plethora of shows that also are seen on other big-city stages. And many of them are family-friendly. (This year, for example, they’ll have Finding Neverland, while Frozen hits the stage in 2017.) Stage productions have included productions like the Secret Garden. Your kids will gain an appreciation for live theater, and you’ll be entertained, too. www.dcpa.org

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Photo by Matthew Murphy

CALENDAR

the

scene In Colorado, we’ve got events to suit everyone’s style.

Check our calendar for the best of the city’s culture and entertainment during your stay.

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

June 21-26

The Sound of Music The Buell Theatre

The hills are alive! The romantic and spirited story of Maria and the Von Trapp family, featuring such enormous hits as My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, Edelweiss and the title song, The Sound of Music. 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the film version, making it one of the most successful movie musicals in history. A production for every age, the musical has captured a Tony, Grammy and Academy Award for Best Score.

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We are a short walk from your hotel, and a mile above the rest.

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403 16th Street Mall At the corner of 16th and Tremont 303.534.6255

6260 S. Gun Club Road Aurora, CO 80016 303.766.8677

4343 S. Buckley Road Aurora, CO 80015 303.680.1016

While all our products are delicious, they are most definitely NOT for children.

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the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

57

CALENDAR APRIL April 1-9

The Buell Theatre

Photo by Deen van Meer

Newsies

Newsies has audiences and critics alike calling it “A musical worth singing about!” DenverCenter.org APRIL 1

APRIL 1-24

Red Rocks Fitness Challenge

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A fun fitness program aimed at health and wellness through education and inspiration. Featuring personal trainers, lifestyle coach and nutritional coaching. AXS.com APRIL 7

APRIL 11

Romance of Piano and Strings,

Dixie’s Never Wear a Tube Top

Peter Yarrow & Noel Paul Stookey

Elvis Costello

Finkel Auditorium, Breckenridge.

Garner Galleria Theatre

Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre

Pianist Michael Linville and two Summer Festival Orchestra artists perform the great trios of Faure and Brahms. BreckCreate.org

Dixie Longate, America’s favorite Tupperware lady, is back sharing lessons in her favorite honky tonk. DenverCenter.org

Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stokey carry on the traditions of renowned fok music group Peter, Paul and Mary – a union that lasted 50 years.

ParamountDenver.com

APRIL 1

APRIL 1

Steamboat Springs

Ogden Theatre

Sweeney Todd

Celebrate the end of the season with the Springalicious Festival, featuring free concerts, the Cardboard Classic and Pond Skim Competition. Steamboat.com

Grammy Award-winning artist Warren Haynes is considered one of the finest guitar players in the world. He has performed with the greats – Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule and the Grateful Dead. His latest solo album, Ashes and Dust, is a beautiful mix of acoustic arrangements and honeyed vocals.

OgdenTheatre.com

The Stage Theatre

English singer-songwriter Elvis Costello rose from London’s pub rock scene to take on the first wave of the British punk and new wave movement of the 1970s. His debut album, My Aim is True, was critically acclaimed, and each of his first three albums made Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. ParamountDenver.com

Springalicous Festival

APRIL 1

Taste of Vail Vail, Colorado

An iconic food and wine event featuring more than 30 of Vail’s finest chefs, and well as owners and winemakers from nearly 50 top U.S. wineries. TasteOfVail.com APRIL 1-3

Getting Out The Edge Theatre Company

Arlene is released from prison and tries to adjust to the outside world. She fights many obstacles, including a cold mother, an overzealous prison guard, a pimp ex-boyfriend and her own demons. TheEdgeTheater.com

Warren Haynes and The Ashes

APRIL 5

Theresa Caputo 1stBank Center

The Long Island Medium and New York Times best-selling author says she has been seeing, feeling and sensing Spirit since the age of four. Today she practices her art and tours the country with her live show Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience. AltitudeTickets.com APRIL 6

Rita Wilson Gothic Theatre

APRIL 1-2

Boulder Arts Week Locations throughout Boulder

This is the largest celebration of the community’s arts and culture. BoulderArtsWeek.org

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April 9-May 28 (Saturdays)

Well-known actress Rita Wilson has numerous credits, including It’s Complicated, Sleepless in Seattle, CBS’ The Good Wife, and recently starred in Larry David’s sold-out Broadway hit, Fish in The Dark. She also has a long-standing love affair with music. GothicTheatre.com

APRIL 8-MAY 15

Grammy-nominated Devotchka’s take on the legendary demon barber of Fleet Street.

DenverCenter.Org

APRIL 12

Ellie Goulding 1stBank Center, Broomfield

APRIL 9

Bill Maher Paramount Theatre

For more than 20 years, Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny political talk can go in American television. He is well-known for his two highly popular shows, “Politically Incorrect” on Comedy Central and later HBO’s “Real Time,” where his unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him 34 Emmy nominations. ParamountDenver.com APRIL 10

The Bible Tour Bellco Theatre

The stories of the Bible are brought to life through live performances of today’s biggest songs, paired with epic visuals from The Bible mini-series. BellcoTheatre.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Ellie Goulding’s distinctive voice delivers layered vocals that bring a haunting complexity to her music. Her new album Halycon is a journey out of heartache toward hope, from desolation to renewed faith, set to music that is stunning and heartfelt. AltitudeTickets.com APRIL 12-13

Lucinda Williams Bluebird Theater

The American rock, folk, blues and country music singer and songwriter was named America’s Best Songwriter by Time Magazine in 2002. AXS.com APRIL 13

Iron Maiden, The Book of Souls World Tour 2016 Pepsi Center

The iconoic heavy metal band is making news with The Book of Souls, which it touts as a 92-minute masterpiece, a cannon-blast of exuberant, anthemic bravado that serves as cast-iron confirmation of just how much they have left in the tank. AltitudeTickets.com

APRIL CALENDAR Pepsi Center

Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com

Justin Bieber, Purpose World Tour 2016

This marks the third worldwide tour for the Canadian singer, and is in conjunction with his 4th studio album, Purpose.

AltitudeTickets.com

April 20

Jeff Dunham Perfectly Unbalanced Tour

1stBank Center

Stand-up comic and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham has performed in numerous comedy shows, and is recognized for his beloved puppets, a woozle named Peanut, a bitter old man named Walter, a dead terrorist named Achmed and Jose Jalapeno, a talking jalapeno pepper on a stick. 1stBankCenter.com

Randy Miramontez / Shutterstock.com

April 4

APRIL 13

APRIL 18

APRIL 20

APRIL 23

Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs

Boulder Theater

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Paramount Theatre

Hailing from Houston, Texas, this American rock band has moved from blues-inspired music to incorporate new wave, punk rock and dance rock over the decades.

PikesPeakCenter.com

Clegg is a singer, songwriter, dancer, anthropologist and music activist. This South African musician delivers a vibrant blend of Western pop and African Zulu rhythms. BoulderTheater.com

Flosstradamus announces HYDFEST, a celebration of all things that make up the world of Flosstradamus. The trap duo is joined

by Snails, Valentino Khan and Chill Harris.

RedRocksOnline.com

Lily Tomlin came to fame as a cast member on the variety show Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In. She currently stars on the Netflix series “Grace and Frankie”. AltitudeTickets.com

APRIL 13

420 Eve on the Rocks

ZZ Top

Johnny Clegg

Flosstradamus

APRIL 19

St Germain Ogden Theatre

The artist’s Ludovic Navarre orginiated a genre of French electronic music that later included artists like Daft Punk and Air. His first album in 15 years incorporates great percussive grooves and a new element, traditional Mallan music. OgdenTheatre.com APRIL 15

Bellamy Brothers

Julian Lage Group

Featuring Method Man, Redman and Ghostface Killah and many more! AXS.com

Gates Concert Hall

Nashville Live Paramount Theatre

A down-home great show, featuring Clare Bowen, Chris Carmack, Charles Esten, Jonathan Jackson and Aubrey Peeples.

AltitudeTickets.com

Grizzly Rose

The country music duo of Howard and David Bellamy exploded on the music scene with their hit “Let Your Love Flow,” which set the stage for a slew of memorable hits.

TicketWeb.com APRIL 18

Red Green: I’m Not Old – I’m Ripe Tour Paramount Theatre

Based on the Canadian television comedy, The Red Green Show is a comedic cross between Home Improvement, DIY, fishing and other sketches. ParamountDenver.com

APRIL 24 APRIL 21

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

APRIL 19

APRIL 19

Cypress Hill 1stBank Center, Broomfield

The pioneering rap-rock group quartet have come a long way from their formation in 1988, with more than 17 million records sold worldwide. The group has earned 15 multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications, headlined Lollapalooza and Woodstock and appeared on Saturday Night Live.

AltitudeTickets.com APRIL 20

Snoop Dogg Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre

The American rapper and actor has sold more than 35 millions albums worldwide., and has been nominated for 17 Grammys. His music spans hip hop, funk, R&B and reggae.

AXS.com

Lily Tomlin

Classically trained jazz guitarist and composer Julian Lage has performed with an impressive number of renowned artists such as Jim Hall, Walter Smith III, Bela Fleck and Nels Cline.

BoxOfficeTicketSales.com APRIL 21

Pentatonix with Us The Duo 1stBank Center

Platinum selling recording artists Pentatonix have sold more than 2.7 million albums in the U.S. Their single “Can’t Sleep Love” has more than 17 million YouTube views.

1stBankCenter.com APRIL 22-MAY 22

Casa Valentina The Edge Theatre

It’s 1962, and while most men went to the Catskill Mountains to escape the summer heat, other men retreated to an inconspicuous bungalow colony that catered to a very special clientele: heterosexual men who liked to dress and act as women. Theedgetheater.com

Ladies Night Out starring Keith Sweat, Ginuwine and Jon B Bellco Theatre

After almost two decades, Keith Sweat is still known for “Nobody” and “Twisted.”

BellcoTheatre.com APRIL 27

Graham Nash Boulder Theater

Grammy winner and two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (with Crosby, Stills, and Nash and with the Hollies), Graham Nash was also inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame twice, as a solo artist and with CSN. BoulderTheater.com APRIL 28

STAR TREK: The Ultimate Voyage Paramount Theatre

A lavish production including an impressive live symphony orchestra and international special solo instruments. AltitudeTickets.com APRIL 29

Cult Following The Jones Theater

Off-Center’s signature night of unrehearsed, unscripted theatre featuring the fast-talking and quick-thinking acts of some of Denver’s top improv performers. DenverCenter.org

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CALENDAR MAY May 6-8

Bellco Theatre

Boulder Theater

David Sedaris

Popular NPR humorist David Sedaris is author of Me Talk Pretty One Day and When You Are Engulfed in Flames. His satirical style makes him one of America’s most observant writers about the human condition.

BoulderTheater.com

Mary A Lupo / Shutterstock.com

Barry Manilow

May 10

The talented pop star wows audiences One Last Time! With special guest Dave Koz. BellcoTheatre.com MAY 1

MAY 3

MAY 13

Dream Theater

The Scarlet Letter

Mayer Hawthorne

1stBank Center, Broomfield

Paramount Theatre

Ellie Caulkins Opera House

Ogden Theatre

A family-friendly circus that delivers an unforgettable experience. Strength, skill, beauty and mystery, combined with amazing light effects and sound, as human and animal performers transport viewers into the dazzling, magical world of the circus.

1stBankCenter.com

A smart, fully immersive, experiential journey through otherworldly soundscapes, featuring hard rock and progressive heavy metal.

ParamountDenver.com

Based on the classic book by Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter tells the tragic tale of Hester Prynne, a young woman branded an adulteress in 17th century puritanical Boston.

OperaColorado.org

He learned to play bass at age five, today his music incorporates an impressive variety of instruments. His songwriting is soulful and pulls from his life and reflections, sometimes upbeat, sometimes serious.

OgdenTheatre.com

MAY 1-15

Sweeney Todd Stage Theatre at the DCPA

Grammy-nominated Devotchka’s take on the legendary demon barber of Fleet Street.

DenverCenter.Org

MAY 4

The Slackers

RuPauls Drag Race Ogden Theatre

A fun evening of entertainment in what is billed as RuPaul’s Drag Race Battle of the Seasons 2016 Extravaganza Tour. OgdenTheatre.com

Mary Jane’s Closing Day

This New York band dishes out a great mix of early Jamaican music interspersed with class ‘50s and ‘60s American styles. Music influenced by rock ‘n roll, R&B, jazz and Latin sounds. AXS.com

Winter Park

The Expendables

Thanks to a massive snowfall in mid-March that brought more than 61 inches of fresh powder to the slopes, Winter Park’s Mary Jane ski area has extended its season and will celebrate the closing day with music and entertainment all day long! This is one of the locals’ favorite days of the year.

WinterPark.com

Gothic Theatre

MAY 13

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Elizabeth Gilbert Paramount Theatre

She shot to popularity with her memoir, Eat Pray Love, and her latest book, Big Magic, shows how to live a life of joy and creativity.

ParamountDenver.com MAY 5-6

MAY 2

The 1975 Red Rocks Amphitheatre

English alternative rock bank The 1975’s debut album shot to No. 1 in the UK Albums Chart, and their second album, I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of It made the US Billboard 200.

RedRocksOnline.com

MAY 7

Bluebird Theater

MAY 5 MAY 1

Chris Stapleton Fillmore Auditorium

A great night of rugged love songs and odes to whiskey. The Grammy-nominated crooner celebrates his latest album, Traveler.

FillmoreAuditorium.org MAY 6

JJ Grey & Mofro and the Infamous Stringdusters Red Rocks Amphitheatre

JJ Grey remains an unfettered, blissful performer, singing with a blue-collared spirit over the bone-deep grooves of his compositions. RedRocksOnline.com

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MAY 7-15

El Jebel Shrine Circus

Thievery Corporation Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A shared passion for bossa nova launched the band, and the Washington, D.C.-based duo of Eric Hilton and Rob Garza has spent nearly two decades creating boundary-warping, complexly crafted electronic music.

RedRocksOnline.com MAY 13

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: The Two Man Paramount Theatre

An evening of hysterical improv featuring the brilliant comic stylings of Brad Sherwood and his addle-brained sidekick Colin Mochrie.

ParamountDenver.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

MAY 13

This reggae rock band delivers face-melting solos, mind-bending jams and danceable grooves, blurring the lines of where one genre ends and another begins. GothicTheatre.com MAY 14

Global Dub Festival featuring Datsik A huge night of bass music that will deliver sweltering heat and heavy drops that bang the eardrums! RedRocksOnline.com MAY 14

The Naked Magic Show Paramount Theatre

These Australian magicians “hide nothing up their sleeves” as they bare it all after making their clothes disappear. Christopher Wayne and Mike Tyler are doing what no magician has ever dared! ParamountDenver.com

MAY CALENDAR Buell Theatre

Ron White

photosthatrock / Shutterstock.com

Stand-up comic Ron White is a charter member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, comprised of Jeff Foxworthy, Bil Engvall and Larry the Cable Guy, and author of the book, I Had the Right to Remain Silent But I Didn’t Have the Ability.

Ticketmaster.com

MAY 14

MAY 21

May 26

Florence + The Machine: How Beautiful Tour

English indie siren Florence Welch brings her baroque-popart to the states, fresh after the success of the release of her third studio album How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful in 2015.

PepsiCenter.com

MAY 24-29

The Neighbourhood

Project Pabst Festival

Once

Ogden Theatre

RiNo Neighborhood

Ellie Caulkins Opera House

The meteoric rise of this LA-based band is well-deserved. With a unique hip-hop-meetsalt-pop aesthetic these guys have shaped a whole new sound that’s stark but intricately layered, moody but hypnotically melodic.

OgdenTheatre.com

A unique experience incorporating music, art, hands-on experiences, food and beer.

This year’s lineup includes Nathaniel Rateliff, Violent Femmes and Courtney Barnett and many more! Denver.ProjectPabst.com

With a talented ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, once tells the tale of a Dublin street musician who is ready to abandon his dream until a beautiful young woman takes an interest in his songs. DenverCenter.org

MAY 21 MAY 15

Bad Company and Joe Walsh Red Rocks Amphitheatre

The two’s “One Hell Of A Night” tour is 30 years in the making, and promises to be a memorable experience. RedRocksOnline.com

Dada Life

MAY 24

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Andrew Bird

Dada Life presents Dada Land Before Time with special guest to be announced!

RedRocksOnline.com

Paramount Theatre

MAY 22 MAY 16

Ben Folds & yMusic Paramount Theatre

Multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter/ producer Ben Folds’ latest album features the concerto along with a host of songs that overlap pop and classical into what he has dubbed “chamber rock.”

ParamountDenver.com MAY 17

Disclosure Red Rocks Amphitheatre

UK duo Guy and Howard Lawrence showcase their album Caracal, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Album. RedRocksOnline.com MAY 20

Paul Simon Bellco Theatre

A special North American tour that celebrates the release of his first new record in five years. BellcoTheatre.com

Elephant Revival with Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band Red Rock Amphitheatre

A Nederland, CO quartet whose groove contains elements of gypsy, Celtic, Americana and folk. RedRocksOnline.com MAY 22

Comedy Bang Bang Paramount Theatre

An oddball cavalcade of countless characters, hilarious guests, running gags, featuring fan favorites Lauren Lapkus, Paul F. Tompkins and Neil Campbell. AltitudeTickets.com MAY 24

Lamb of God Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Featuring renowned rockers Clutch and heavy metal veterans Corrosion of Conformity. Lamb of God is currently nominated for the Best Metal Performance Grammy Award for their track “512.” RedRocksOnline.com

Pepsi Center

Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

May 13

This musician, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is a master on the violin, but also has a love for the guitar, the mandolin, the xylophone, whistling and the glockenspiel.

Truly a man of many sounds.

ParamountDenver.com MAY 25

Leon Bridges Paramount Theatre

Gospel and soul singer Leon Bridges gained a huge number of fans with his song “Coming Home,” a Top 10 Most Viral Track on Spotify.

ParamountDenver.com MAY 25

The Flaming Lips

MAY 27

The Devil Makes Three and Shakey Graves Red Rocks Amphitheatre

His music is a cross between blues, folk and rock and roll, and this past September Shakey Graves won the Best Emerging Artist award at the 2015 American Music Awards, where he and musician Esme Patterson performed “Dearly Departed”. RedRocksOnline.com MAY 28-29

My Morning Jacket Red Rocks Amphitheatre

This talented group received a Grammy Award nomination for their critically acclaimed album, “The Waterfall”, in the category of Best Alternative Music Album.

RedRocksOnline.com MAY 30

Bolder BOULDER Folsom Field

One of the largest and most highly acclaimed 10ks in the world, this fun race has more than 52,000 runners and 70,000 spectators who come out for great music, dancing and entertainment. The Pro Race features some of the world’s elite runners. BolderBoulder.com

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A memorable performance with The Soft Bulletin and the Colorado Symphony and conductor Andre de Ridder. RedRocksOnline.com

MAY 31-JUNE 1

Celtic Woman Buell Theatre

Described as “Riverdance for the voice”, this all-female Irish ensemble performs a repertoire that spans traditional Celtic tunes to modern songs. BuellTheatre.center

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CALENDAR JUNE June 3-4

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

shaferaphoto / Shutterstock.com

33rd Annual Balloon Festival

June 7-12

Telluride, Colorado

JUNE 1

JUNE 5

JUNE 8-AUGUST 17 (WEDNESDAY NIGHTS)

The Disco Biscuits

The Comedy of Errors

The Cure with The Twilight Sad

2016 Snowmass Rodeo

Ogden Theatre

Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, University of Colorado at Boulder

Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre

Snowmass Village Rodeo Grounds

From their debut in 1976, The Cure has amassed a huge army of fans. From huge dance hits to memorable pop, the band has continued to evolve and attract attention around the world. AEGLive.com

A fun evening featuring bareback riding, team roping, saddle bronc riding, daily ribbon roping, barrel racing and bull riding. The fun continues with mechanical bull riding, a petting zoo, a saloon and an authentic cowboy dinner. SnowmassRodeo.org

Bridging the gap between electronic music and jam bands, The Disco Biscuits are a staple of marathon dance parties as well as live improvisational journeys. AEGLive.com JUNE 1

Bryson Tiller Red Rocks Amphitheatre

22-year-old Bryson Tiller brings a unique brand of street soul that musically blends the urgency of trap music with smooth sound of alternative R&B. AEGLive.com JUNE 3-4

Durango Blues Train Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train Depot, Durango, Colorado

Two evenings of live blues peppered with the scenery of the famous historic train. Enjoy a musical journey on the 100+-year-old steam-powered train, where different musicians perform in their own personal vintage coach cars as passengers dance and sample music acts by traveling from one car to the next. DurangoBluesTrain.com JUNE 3-5

Bluegrass at the Fair Colorado State Fairgrounds, Pueblo, Colorado

A unique experience featuring great entertainment from fabulous Colorado bluegrass bands, combined with some of the best campground jamming around. The fair has become a meeting place for friends traveling from around the country to enjoy music, jam late into the night, and listen to great music.

BlueGrassAtTheFair.com

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JUNE 3-AUGUST 7

The smash hit Broadway musical returns to Denver, in an eyepopping spectacle that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

DenverCenter.org

Photo by Matthew Murphy

A truly spectacular display as balloons lift off from Telluride Town Park and soar over the Telluride Valley. Head over to Main Street on Saturday evening to witness the amazing Balloon Glow. VisitTelluride.com

The Buell Theatre

The Comedy of Errors is Shakespeare’s purest comedy – with a twist. Set in jazzy, sexy 1930s Paris, this hilarious production bends the classic adventure of mistaken identities with a different direction that puts women in charge ... and men in their places.

ColoradoShakes.org JUNE 3,4

Langhorne Slim & The Law Bluebird Theater

Langhorne’s joyful combination of folk, soul and blues comes together in “The Spirit Moves,” his latest album due out in early August. AEGLive.com JUNE 4

2016 Manitou Springs Colorado Wine Festival Memorial Park, Manitou Springs

Generous tastings from 30 Colorado wineries.

Sip and savor the tastes and sensations as you listen to live music and peruse food and gift vendors. A great way to spend the day!

ManitouSprings.org JUNE 5

Barenaked Ladies Last Summer on Earth Tour Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Howard Jones Red Rocks Amphitheatre

After 27 years and more than 14 million albums sold, the band’s latest album “Silverball” is a fun, cerebral tribute to rock ‘n roll.

AEGLive.com

JUNE 5

Dan & Phil: The Amazing Tour is Not JUNE 9-12 Telluride WOW Festival on Fire Bellco Theatre.

The Peaks Resort & Spa, Telluride, Colorado

JUNE 5

A four-day health, fitness and wellness event that brings world-class presenters, instructors and athletes to lecture and hold fitness classes showcasing the latest in health, fitness, wellness, nutrition and medical trends. VisitTelluride.com

1stBank Center, Broomfield, CO

JUNE 10-11

The Dan and Phil tour is a theatrical stage show with hilarious anecdotes, sketches, lots of audience participation and suprises galore.

Bellcotheatre.com

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis This talented duo from Seattle emerged as a premier international hip-hop group known for its electrifying live shows, expertly crafted music and innovative music videos and media. Their debut full-length album, The Heist, was #1 on iTunes and debuted at #2 on the Billboard charts. AEGLive.com

Greeley Blues Jam Island Grove Arena, Greeley, Colorado

JUNE 7-8

A nonstop, two day music extravaganza, featuring great music from the ilkes of electric blues harmonica player and bandleader Charlie Musselwhite, zydeco showman Chubby Carrier, songstress Hazel Miller, Lionel Young Band and Chris Daniels and the Kings.

GreeleyBluesJam.com

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

JUNE 11

The Lumineers The popular band’s newest release, Cleopatra, sets a visual story to music through great acoustic soundscapes. Named after the title track, Cleopatra is inspired by a woman from the Republic of Georgia who was an acquaintance of the bandmember Wesley Schultz.

AEGLive.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Big Head Todd & The Monsters 30th Anniversary With Dwight Yoakam Red Rocks Amphitheatre

This popular Colorado band is regarded as one of the most adventurous, respected and durable bands in the country. Their recognizable trademark hybrid sound shines through in their 2014 release Black Beehive, a tribute to the late British soul singer Amy Winehouse.

AEGLive.com

JUNE CALENDAR June 19

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Bob Dylan

Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Dylan’s remarkable career spans nearly half a century, and today he remains one of the most iconic and controversial songwriters ever to grace the stage. AEGLive.com JUNE 11

JUNE 14

June 25-August

Crested Butte Music Festival

Mt. Crested Butte Mirror Palace

Beginning June 25 through August, audiences from around the globe can enjoy world-class music in a spectacular new venue, the “Spiegeltent”(tent with mirrors), which is nestled among majestic mountains and is one of just four such structures in the United States. More than 150 musicians will perform at the festival throughout the summer.

CrestedButteMusicFestival.org JUNE 17-19

JUNE 24

Marlon Wayans: Scandal-less Tour

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

Pikes Peak Celtic Festival

Widespread Panic

Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre

Memorial Park, Colorado Springs, CO

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Best known for his work on the silver screen, Wayans co-created one of the most successful comedy franchises of recent times - The Scary Movie series. Denver-theater.com

Rock ‘n roll legend Pat Benatar is a four-time Grammy winner and classicaly trained mezzo-soprano. Her hits include “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” and “Love Is a Battlefield,” and in MTV’s early days she was one of the most heavily played artists on the popular music channel. AEGLive.com

A true Celtic celebration, featuring bagpipes, fish and chips, world-champion Irish dancers, Celtic rock groups and activities for all ages.

PikesPeakCelticFestival.com

One of the world’s best jam bands, Widespread Panic puts on original shows each time, with the setlist just a loose framework around which the band hangs its infamous spiraling jams. RedRocksOnline.com

JUNE 11

Aspen Gran Fondo Aspen

A fun-filled 50-mile bike ride that offers something for everyone, with steep climbs, rolling hills, flat sections and gorgeous scenery. The bike ride has a total ascent of 4,633 feet and reaches an elevation of 8,421 feet. GranFondoAspen.com JUNE 11

Durango Wine and Rails Durango, Colorado

An experiential wine journey featuring Colorado wineries. Board the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and enjoy wine, rails and the stunning wilderness in a single afternoon. DurangoTrain.com JUNE 13

Steely Dan & Steve Winwood

JUNE 16-19

43rd Annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival Telluride Town Park, Telluride, Colorado

A magical weekend featuring world-class artists performing in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. Featured artists include Bela Fleck & The Flecktones, John Prine, Leftover Salmon and Emmylou Harris.

Bluegrass.com/Telluride JUNE 16-19

Country Jam Country Jam Ranch, Grand Junction, CO

A truly amazing celebration of country music, with artists such as Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Lee Brice, Zac Brown Band, Trace Adkins and many more! CountryJam.com

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Steely Dan have one of the greatest catalogues of any still-touring rock band, with over four decades of songs. Steve Winwood is famous for his blue-eyed soul phase of the 1980s. Denver-Theater.com

JUNE 17-19

Food&Wine Classic in Aspen Aspen, CO

An annual event featuring the world’s most accomplished winemakers, celebrity chefs and culinary experts. A unique opportunity to indulge in great food, mingle with stars and enjoy a fabulous weekend in a gorgeous setting. FoodAndWine.Com/Classic

JUNE 18

Red Whites & Brews

JUNE 24

Harry A. Nottingham Park, Avon, CO

Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival

A fun festival in a beautiful setting featuring unlimited wine and craft beer tastings, live music, vendors and food. RedWhiteAndBrews.net

Whitewater Park, Canon City, CO

JUNE 23-JULY 4

Greeley Stampede Island Grove Regional Park, Greeley, CO

A phenomenal mix of music and rodeo, this year’s event features special performances by Lady Antebellum, Chris Young and more. Daily parades in the park, music galore, fireworks, carnival and ProRodeo events – to keep attendees of all ages entertained and wanting more! GreeleyStampede.org JUNE 24-25

Downtown Denver 16th Street Fair 16th Street Mall, Downtown

An annual celebration of fine art, handcrafted goods and the 16th Street Mall in Downtown Denver. A great showcase of emerging artists and designers. 16thstfair.com

The 8th Annual Royal Gorge Whitewater Festivals features kayak, standup paddleboard, raft and river board competitions and other events.

Enjoy food, beer, vendors and family entertainment. RoyalGorgeWhitewaterFestival.com JUNE 25-AUGUST

Crested Butte Music Festival Mt. Crested Butte Mirror Palace

Beginning June 25 through August, audiences from around the globe can enjoy world-class music in a spectacular new venue, the “Spiegeltent”(tent with mirrors), which is nestled among majestic mountains and is one of just four such structures in the United States. More than 150 musicians will perform at the festival throughout the summer.

CrestedButteMusicFestival.org JUNE 25-26

CoverRock Summer of Love Avon, CO

JUNE 24

Boston 40th Anniversary Tour Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre

Following their debut in 1976, Boston soon became an iconic classic rock fixture, selling more than 17 million copies of their first self-titled album and hits such as “More Than a Feeling” and “Peace of Mind.” AEGLive.com

A one-of-a-kind music festival featuring tribute bands recreating the Summer of 1969.

Rock out to the music Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Joe Cocker, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who, Grateful Dead and more!

CoverRockFestival.com

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the scene

SPORTS

Colorado Rockies

http://www.coloradorockies.com May 9 vs. Arizona Diamondbacks May 11 vs. Arizona Diamondbacks May 12 vs. New York Mets May 14 vs. New York Mets May 15 vs. New York Mets

Denver Nuggets http://www.nba.com

All home games played at Coors Field in Denver, CO May 28 vs. San Francisco Giants May 29 vs. San Francisco Giants May 30 vs. Cincinnati Reds May 31 vs. Cincinnati Reds

All home games played at Pepsi Center in Denver, CO

Colorado Avalanche http://avalanche.nhl.com

All home games played at Pepsi Center in Denver, CO

April 2 vs. Sacramento Kings April 5 vs. Oklahoma City Apiril 8 vs. San Antonio Spurs April 10 vs. Utah Jazz

Colorado Rapids

http://http://www.coloradorapids.com

All home games played at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, CO

April 1 vs. Washington Capitals April 3 vs. St. Louis Blues April 9 vs. Anaheim Ducks

Colorado Mammoth http://www.coloradomammoth.com

May 7 vs. Real Salt Lake May 11 vs. Sporting Kansas City May 28 vs. Philadelphia Union

64

April 15 vs. Saskatchewan Rush April 23 vs. Toronto Rock, Pepsi Center April 29 vs. Vancouver Stealth, Pepsi Center

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

All home games played at Pepsi Center in Denver, CO

Packed with personality and local flavor, Go Fish Sushi & Lounge fits right in with the trendy shopping, eating, and drinking destinations of South Broadway.

Broadway 1 Broadway, Unit B108 Denver, CO 80203 303.733.8881 Happy Hour Mon-Sat: 2pm-6pm Fri-Sat: 10pm-2am

NEW Broomfield Open Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri: 11am-2am Sat: 12pm-2am Sun: 12pm-9:30pm

2055 W. 136th Suite B106 Broomfield, CO 80023 720.593.1888

Open Hours Sun-Thurs: 11am-9:30pm Fri-Sat: 11am-10:30pm

Happy Hour Fri-Sat: 2pm-6pm

/GoFishDenver

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DINING 1515 Restaurant

Bang!

A Denver mainstay, owner Gene Tang and his staff take Modern American Cuisine into the stratosphere at 1515. They cook what they love.

Chefs Garren Teich and Jonas Halstead create intimate menus with a nod to molecular gastronomy and the sous-vide technique. Housed in an historic building, the vintage setting is perfect for any special night out on the town or simply a dinner among friends. Their wine list has repeatedly won Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence.”

With a menu as colorful as the restaurant’s exterior, Bang! quickly became a hit among locals and tourists looking for a great place to dine in The Highlands, just north of downtown Denver. The dress is casual, but the food is as good as it gets, whether it’s a shared calamari appetizer, a fresh salad or a plate of baby back ribs. Comfort food and so much more!

1515Restaurant.com

Abejas Located in the heart of downtown Golden, Abejas is the creation of Brandon Bortles and Barry Dobesh, who have deep roots in the area.

Executive Chef Nicholas Ames spent time in great kitchens in San Francisco and Denver, and brings a love of culinary dishes to this wonderful restaurant. The menu is unique and flavorful, featuring fresh local ingredients that reflect the seasons. The rustic interior reflects the true spirit of Golden, Colorado.

807 13th St., Golden 303.952.9745 abejasgolden.com

Acorn Chef/owner Steven Redzikowski serves up contemporary American cuisine in this innovative new epicurean marketplace located in the River North (RiNo) District. Housed in a reclaimed 1880’s foundry, the atmosphere is as innovative as the food. Co-owner Bryan Dayton delivers fabulous cocktails, artisan wines and beers.

3350 Brighton Blvd 720.542.3721 DenverAcorn.com

1035 E. 17th Avenue 303.847.0850 ArgyllDenver.com

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BeatriceAndWoodsley.com

Bistro Vendome

This Denver favorite features a seasonal menu showcasing authentic northern Italian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. The spectacular wine cellar at this award-winning eatery includes a large collection of Barolo wines.

This classic French bistro is named after Place Vendome, a local favorite in the heart of Paris.

Located in the historic Sussex Building in the heart of downtown’s Larimer Square, Bistro Vendome serves up classic French bistro fare made from local, seasonal ingredients. A wonderful selection of French wines are on hand to complement the meal, representing France’s major wine regions. The restaurant’s “Vin Maison” wine program allows guests to select different wines to accompany their meal.

3030 E. 6th Ave. 303.393.1040

1420 Larimer Street 303.825.3232

BaroloGrillDenver.com

BistroVendome.com

Beast + Bottle

Bittersweet

3472 W. 32nd Avenue 303.455.1117 BangDenver.com

Barolo Grill

Owned by siblings Chef Paul C. Reilly and House Manager Aileen Reilly, Beast + Bottle is considered a new kid on the block, and an amazingly successful one at that. Just blocks from Denver’s city center, Beast + Bottle has raised the bar on the “farm to fork” genre of cuisine. They work with ranchers, farmers and other purveyors, offering unique cuts of meat prepared in their in-house butchery, and organic ingredients. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Beast + Bottle offers a delicious adventure in dining in a friendly, comfortable setting.

This award-winning restaurant offers artisanal cuisine steeped in old-world traditions. From handmade breads, tempting pastas and creative desserts, to produce grown in on-site gardens, every aspect of its dining experience blends authentic flavors with local ingredients.

Blue Island Oyster Bar Chef DJ Nagle has crafted a wonderful menu that brings the coast to the mile-high city. The seafood is extremely fresh and delicious. As the name implies, the oysters are simply divine, shipped from Blue Island Shellfish Farms in New England. The hip bar serves up a wonderful assortment of wines, beer and cocktails that complement every seafood serving, from steamed mussels, lobster roils, clam chowder or succulent crab cakes.

2625 E. Second Ave. 303.333.2462 BlueIslandOysterBar.com

Bones An Asian-inspired noodle house with a twist that’s uniquely Frank Bonanno’s, the chef/ owner of a growing empire of top-notch local eateries. Situated between two other highly popular Bonanno restaurants, Luca D’Italia and Mizuna, Bones offers a unique, casual dining experience that nevertheless has a gourmet feel. The space is small; the flavors are anything but. And the noodle bowls are all the rage.

701 Grant Street 303.860.2929 BonesDenver.com

Café Aion

500 E. Alameda Ave. 303.942.0320 BittersweetDenver.com

Black Pearl

719 E. 17th St. 303.623.3223 BeastandBottle.com

Beatrice & Woodsley

The atmosphere is as original as the menu, which features contemporary American cuisine focused on seasonal offerings. Many items are made from locally grown ingredients, and the restaurant prides itself on strong attention to working with local, organic, humane and environmentally conscientious producers.

Argyll The gastropub concept originated in the U.K., and Denver’s Argyll GastroPub presents a “notched up” version, with pub fare featuring fresh ingredients served in an authentic “public house” ambience. Noted chef John Broening has created a superb menu, and seasoned sommelier and whiskey enthusiast Ryan Conklin has assembled top-notch spirits.

38 S. Broadway 303.777.3505

Lanie Benack

1515 Market Street 303.571.0011

great attention and kudos from foodies around town. The dinner menu is a delight, and the brunch is sure to put a smile on your face.

The tastes of the Old world and new cuisine blend wonderfully to create a memorable dining experience. Beatrice & Woodsley is as original as the name implies, and has garnered

1529 S. Pearl Street 303.777.0500 BlackPearlDenver.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Pulling from the rich traditions surrounding Spanish tapas, Café Aion focuses on small, straightforward and delectable dishes like Manila clams with fresh peas and chorizo or beef short rib with roast cauliflower. They also offer a variety of smaller bites and larger plates in addition to a delicious dessert menu.

Don’t miss their all-night happy hour on Tuesdays!

1235 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder 303.993.8131 CafeAion.com

Cart + Driver Chef Kelly Whitaker spins creative, offering up everything from authentic briny oysters to delicious salads and housemade pastries.

Pizza is a staple at this unique establishment, which has developed a loyal and enthusiastic local fan club since opening in a 640-sq. ft. shipping container space right in Denver’s RiNo arts district. Experience the great fare of Southern Italian farms at this fun and friendly venue.

2500 Larimer St. 303.292.3553 cart-driver.com

Central Bistro and Bar From every point of view, Central is an American restaurant, from the well thought-out recipes to the great atmosphere. Vintage furnishings create a place of comfort and relaxation, and that is exactly what you’ll want to do once you sample the food. Whether you’re in the mood for something from the sea or the land, Central will have you coming back next time in you’re in town.

1691 Central Street 303.477.4582 CentralBistroBar.com

Charcoal Restaurant

DINING

Colt & Gray

table, tuck in at your own intimate table or enjoy the outdoor terrace for a spirited drink.

1400 Wewatta St. 303.623.5700

If you’re looking for one restaurant that boasts service equally as phenomenal as the food, Charcoal is the place to go. Executive Chef Patrik Landberg uses the highest-quality ingredients, and from there, lets the food do the talking. No overdone sauces to mask the flavor, just delicious food every time. The restaurant’s custom-designed “Bincho” charcoal grill is a staple used to prepare many of the meals.

Enjoy everything from juicy burgers and beer to delectable lobster dishes complemented by vintage wines at this cozy local pub. The classic setting is augmented by the affordability of a neighborhood restaurant that prides itself on superior food and service.

Coohills.com

Cool River Café

ColtAndGray.com

With a warm, casually elegant ambiance, Cool River Café offers a dining experience that caters to all the senses. Savor American classics including sizzling steaks and tasty seafood recipes while enjoying happy hour and martini specials. Visit Cool River for lunch, dinner, cocktails or brunch.

Coohills

8000 E. Belleview Ave., Ste. C10 303.771.4117

1553 Platte St., No. 120 303.477.1447

43 W. 9th Avenue 303.454.0000

CoolRiverCafe.com

CharcoalDining.com

Cucina Colore

Cholon Modern Asian Bistro Named after the largest market in Saigon, this historic LoDo restaurant offers a creative spin on traditional Asian dishes along with handcrafted cocktails that enhance the vibrant flavors. The large projection screen in the lounge makes ChoLon a suitable location for business meetings and presentations.

1555 Blake St., Ste. 101 303.353.5223 Cholon.com/denver

With a focus on local, regional, and farm-fresh ingredients, this LoDo hotspot invites you to relax in its uniquely modern, European setting.

Enjoy crudo salads, cheese or salumi selections or warm cassoulets served before, during or even after plates of pasta, fresh seafood, grilled or smoked meats, and locally grown vegetables. You can pull up to the community

Cucina Colore has been a local favorite for years, and recently underwent a renovation that is truly a knockout. If pasta is your thing, Cucina Colore never disappoints, whether it’s wood-fired pizza or a great serving of pasta or fish. But leave room for dessert, because the signature bread pudding is truly unbeatable.

3041 E. Third Ave. 303.393.6917 cucinacolore.com

DINING The Curtis Club Chef Eric Johnson has designed a menu that appeals to every taste, presented in a cool urban setting that is a bit off the beaten path for locals. Entrees are meticulously prepared to look as inviting as they taste, and are a far cry from your standard club fare. Make sure to check out the décor — original, fun and interesting.

2100 Curtis Street 720.420.9898 TheCurtisClub.com

Del Frisco Grille A refreshing update to the classic bar and grill, the newly opened Del Frisco’s Grille in Cherry Creek North is simply delicious. Order some cheese steak eggrolls or ahi tacos and enjoy them with a glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail. Or stay true to the Del Frisco concept and indulge in a prime cut of beef cooked just the way you want it.

Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen

Fuel Café

Il Posto

Located in historic Euclid Hall, this American tavern specializes in fine cocktails, craft beers and innovative, high-quality pub food from around the world. The eatery is a convenient location for Pepsi Center attendees, LoDo club-goers and Denver Center for the Performing Arts patrons.

Located in the oh-so-hip Taxi district near downtown Denver, Fuel Café is a great place for small groups or larger parties. Featuring small plates and great drinks, this is the type of restaurant that brings out the best parts of eating out, whether you’re in the mood for a great brunch, steak or chicken or an interesting medley of small plates.

Glance into the open-air kitchen as Milanese chef and owner Andrea Frizzi prepares dishes inspired by northern Italian recipes at Il Posto.

The resident sommelier selects the perfect wine for any meal. And the ever-changing menu features local organic produce and meats, along with fresh seafood flown in daily.

1317 14th St. 303.595.4255 EuclidHall.com

1475 E. 17th Ave. 303.386.3509 dossantosdenver.com

Duo Restaurant

Jennifer Olson

1 Broadway 303.733.8881

2927 Larimer St.

GoFishDenver.com

finnsmanor.net

Frasca Named after friendly, informal gathering places in the Friuli-Venezia-Giulia region of northeast Italy, Frasca features exquisitely prepared fare and a comprehensive wine list boasting more than 200 varieties. Warm, welcoming and unpretentious, it is the perfect destination for impromptu gatherings, casual dinners and special occasions.

FrascaFoodAndWine.com

Fruition

2413 W. 32nd Ave. 303.477.4141 DuoDenver.com

Eat + Drink A wine and cheese emporium offering more than 100 artisan cheeses, gourmet foods and lots of wines. Located in LoHi, this is a great place to grab a quick lunch or enjoy some wine and cheese on a warm summer night.

In the heart of the trendy blocks of Broadway, just minutes from downtown, Go Fish offers creative Asian appetizers, entrees, noodle and rice specialties. The sushi and sashimi are innovative and delicious and great for vegetarians. The contemporary interior is a perfect blend of eclectic and chic.

tastes of The Philippines, the South, Jamaica, the Caribbean and Asia.

1738 Pearl St., Boulder 303.442.6966

This farm-to-table treasure is tucked away in one of Denver’s hippest neighborhoods and offers a relaxed and unassuming environment. A word of advice: Save room for dessert. Yasmin Lozada-Hissom, Duo’s renowned pastry chef, presents magical treats to top off any meal.

Go Fish

We have to tell you about this unique venue, which is a tribute to whisky drinkers everywhere. With a focus on whisky and rum-based cocktails, the three partners utilize fare from four food trucks to complement the cocktails.

The result: a culinary adventure, which pairs

delfriscosgrille.com/cherry-creek

Authentic Mexican fare is the theme of this fun taqueria, which has quickly become a local favorite. The menu is simple, straightforward and delicious, but it’s the brunch that has people talking. The Mexican Doughnuts are divine, made of cinnamon-sugar churros with Mexican chocolate ganache, vanilla crema and honey-glazed bacon bits. Yum!

FuelCafeDenver.com

Finn’s Manor

100 St. Paul St. 303.320.8529

Dos Santos

3455 Ringsby Court 303.996.6988

Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar Hapa’s menu reflects a harmonious blend of Asian and American cultures. Traditional Japanese cooking fundamentals are amplified, muted or mixed with other styles to create something completely new and different. Multiple locations.

Four locations in Denver and Boulder HapaSushi.com

Humboldt Farm Fish Wine Chefs DJ Nagle and Kollin Gandy are all about serving up the freshest, tastiest food possible, whether it’s a simple salad or a sumptuous dish of lobster spaghetti. From the down-home to the downright delicious, this is one restaurant that will surprise you with the preparation, making you wonder how food that sounds so simple can taste so great? Ingredients are mostly local, and produce, farm and fish are prepared onsite on a daily basis.

IlPostoDenver.com

Izakaya Den

A popular Japanese gastropub with global cuisine, their tapas-style menu features traditional Japanese plates and dishes inventively infused with international flavor.

The creative spin on sushi offers delicious rolls and refreshing cocktails in an understated, upscale ambiance.

1518 S. Pearl St. 303.777.0691 IzakayaDen.net

Jing This is an elegant Modern Chinese restaurant which stretches the margins of traditional Chinese fare. Specializing in Asian-fusion, the seafood and small plates are especially remarkable. Don’t miss the ultra-chic cocktail lounge, featuring a mesmerizing ambience with extraordinary specialty drinks. Located in Landmark Square, just minutes from major Denver Tech Center office parks and hotels, Jing is open 7 days a week.

5370 Greenwood Plaza Blvd.

303-779-6888 JingRestaurant.com

The Kitchen

1700 Humboldt Street 303.813.1700

Chef Alex Siedel, named one of Food & Wine’s best new chefs of 2010, creates a seasonal menu of sophisticated comfort food using only the highest quality, local ingredients. Fruition’s symphony of mood, service and cuisine reflect a grace that elevates this dining experience to a new level.

1313 E. 6th Ave. 303.831.1962 FruitionRestaurant.com

HumboldtRestaurant.com

Hutch & Spoon For a fun respite from a busy day, make your way over to Hutch & Spoon, where chef/owner Tracy Zimmer is hard at work designing ever-changing menus that reflect her commitment to fresh ingredients made in just the right way. The casual atmosphere is great for relaxing over a great cup of coffee or a grilled cheese and peach chutney sandwich. The food is fresh, the ambience inviting, and a great choice for breakfast or lunch.

1541 Platte Street 303.477.3288

3090 Larimer Street 303.296.2317

EatDrinkIncDenver.com

HutchAndSpoon.com

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2011 E. 17th Ave. 303.394.0100

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Enjoy the spirit of the family kitchen in this neighborhood restaurant. This spot serves exceptional contemporary American cuisine with local, organic ingredients and is deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and the community.

BOULDER 1039 Pearl St. 303.544.5973 DENVER 1530 16th St. 303.623.3127 TheKitchenCommunity.com

Come Fly With Us! Come experience the sensation of flying over trees, lakes and streams, spotting deer and other wildlife.

Join us as our hot air balloons drift gracefully above the terrain at Chatfield State Park where peace and tranquility reign as you float in the sky. This will be a time suspended experience you will never forget!

Call today to schedule your balloon ride!

rockymountainhotair.com

the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment :: denver + colorado

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DINING

Linger

The Kitchen Next Door This community pub is located in the beautifully renovated Union Station in downtown Denver.

From classic sandwiches to creative salads, the menu is full of fresh eats enhanced by the open atmosphere. The Kitchen offers a variety of Colorado craft beers on tap, plus great specials during “Community Hour” from 3 to 6 p.m. every day.

1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station), South of the Great Hall 720.460.3730 TheKitchen.com/Next-Door-Union-Station

La Biblioteca Denver

2020 Lawrence Street 303-942-0262 Lower48Kitchen.com

Luca D’Italia The vibrant international cuisine at Linger reflects a broad farm-to-table sensibility with a spin on traditional ethnic eats. Design elements create a purposeful contradiction, featuring reclaimed boxcar floors, a Lite Brite bar top and infinity windows with incredible views of downtown Denver.

2020 W. 30th Ave. 303.993.3120 LingerDenver.com

Adam Larkey

Little Ollie’s

Internationally heralded chef Richard Sandoval has taken his well-regarded Manhattan concept “the Library of Tequila” and created an eclectic menu of Latin-Asian specialties. The intimate venue boasts a massive collection of tequilas, mezcals and agave spirits, and food ranges from sushi to tacos to small plates.

1610 Little Raven Street 720.904.0965 RichardSandoval.com/LaBibliotecaDenver

La Cour Their website sums it up best: The Monley family and friends, with members who live in Denver and Paris, decided to share their love affair with France — and the way that fine food, drink and art can elevate a person’s senses. A unique and fun place featuring local and imported meats, cheeses and breads.

Affordable French wines and great art make this a great way to spend a few hours.

1643 S. Broadway 303.777.5000 DenversArtBar.com

Leña Nestled in an intimate cozy setting, Leña is a Latin American-inspired restaurant that emphasizes sharing and communal dining. The venue’s focal point is the white oak, wood-fired grill that serves up a tempting assortment of grilled meats, seafood and vegetables. The tortillas and empañadas are homemade, and the traditional offerings represent South and Central America, Spain and Mexico.

24 Broadway 720.550.7267 lenadenver.com

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accents to round out the interest. The menu changes daily, and you can always be assured it will be something delicious.

The big sister to Jing, Little Ollie’s has been voted the best Chinese food in Denver by newspapers and magazines for the past 11 years of their 17-year history. MSG-free, Chinese made fresh is their stamp of excellence; the Peking duck a highlight. Little Ollie’s patio is open year round and abounds with flowers in the summer months.

2364 E. 3rd Ave. 303-316-8888 LittleOlliesCherryCreek.com

Lola Mexican Fish House Just a scenic stroll or a few minutes cab ride from downtown, Lola Mexican Fish House offers everything from custom guacamole mixed tableside to a varied array of remarkable, fresh entrees reminiscent of coastal Mexico. Patio seating, terrific weekend brunch and tantalizing cocktails are also a part of what makes Lola Mexican Fish House the place to be.

1575 Boulder Street 720-570-8686 LolaDenver.com

Los Chingones Restaurateur Troy Guard’s foray into the world of Mexican food is really all about tacos, and his selections are drawing rave reviews. Locals are going gaga over the octopus tacos, the shrimp tacos, the butternut squash tacos.

Pretty much everything you would never dream of putting in a taco has made its way into one at Los Chingones, and the result is wonderful.

It’s not a fancy place, it’s just plain fun.

Zagat once named this bistro the top Italian restaurant in the western United States.

The food is lovingly prepared, thoughtfully served and thoroughly enjoyed. A seasonally changing menu features Sicilian-style meats, pastas, breads and cheeses all prepared fresh in-house.

711 Grant St. 303.832.6600 LucaDenver.com

Mizuna One of the top-rated restaurants in the country, Mizuna gives its chefs a wide creative berth when it comes to the monthly changing menu.

Sample new versions of old recipes, unique food combinations and a stellar wine list for lunch and dinner.

225 E. 7th Ave. 303.832.4778 MizunaDenver.com

Mercantile Dining & Provision Acclaimed chef Alex Seidel takes diners on a culinary journey featuring fresh Colorado ingredients, many farmed from Fruition Farms artisanal sheep dairy and creamery. Located in Union Station, the atmosphere is hip, friendly and urban. Alex Seidel gained a following as owner of the award-winning Fruition Restaurant, and now takes diners to a new level of inspired eating.

1701 Wynkoop Street 720.460.3733 MercantileDenver.com

The Nickel A unique setting inside the iconic Hotel Teatro, The Nickel offers up mouthwatering Rocky Mountain comfort food. Don’t miss the great popular brunch, or inventive cocktails in The Barrel Bar, all in a great setting that pays tribute to the hotel’s storied past.

1100 Fourteenth St. 720.889.2128 TheNickelDenver.com

OAK at Fourteenth

2461 Larimer Street 303-295-0686 LosChingonesMexican.com

1400 Pearl Street, Boulder 303.444.3622 OakAtFourteenth.com

Old Major When a restaurant prides itself on serving sustainable cuisine, that definition can be all over the board. Not so at Old Major, a venue that cures its farm-raised meats in-house, serves sustainable seafood and sources ingredients from local farms. An experience in contemporary farmhouse cuisine.

3316 Tejon Street 720.420.0622 OldMajorDenver.com

Olive + Finch For a delicious alternative to a heavy meal, Olive & Finch is inspired by European cafes that excel in locally handcrafted, fresh food.

This charming marketplace and eatery serves sublime fresh-baked pastries, artisan sandwiches, soups and salads, made from scratch using organic and locally sourced produce.

1552 E. 17th Ave. 303.832.8663 OliveAndFinchEatery.com

Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox Billed as a “gastro-brothel”, this recent addition to the dining scene is housed in a former brothel/peep-show venue. Owner Justin Cucci is no stranger to great dining; in fact he has two of Denver’s most popular restaurants to his credit, Root Down and Linger. The menu is as interesting and eclectic as the space, with all types of food and cocktails to match the amazing, adventurous space.

1215 20th St. 303.993.8023 opheliasdenver.com

Osaka Ramen Chef Jeff Osaka is an icon in the local culinary scene, having honed his skill alongside some of the best chefs on the West Coast. His ramen noodle bowls are not to be missed, and he continues to wow diners with his innovative melding of flavors and ingredients. Yes, this is a true ramen restaurant, but it’s oh, so much more! This Spring, Ramen introduces a new emporium in Lower Downtown … stay tuned!

2817 E. Third Ave. 303.393.6917

Lower48 Kitchen The name pays homage to the lower 48 states and foods special to these regions. This theme is carried through in the décor, which represents modern America. The heritage of the nation is evidenced throughout, with modern

creates seasonally inspired menus centered on locally grown vegetables, locally sourced meats, sustainably raised seafood and house-made pastas. Co-owner Bryan Dayton is passionate about mixology, meaning the bar offers a variety of creative, handcrafted cocktails.

osakaramendenver.com

Combining features of Colorado’s rustic past with Boulder’s contemporary foodie scene, OAK at Fourteenth offers exquisite New American cuisine. Chef and owner Steven Redzikowski

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Osteria Marco With classic hand-tossed Italian pizza, an extensive and accessible wine selection, housecrafted meats and cheeses and rustic elegance, this restaurant is classic osteria.

This playful little brother of the high-end Luca d’Italia continues the tradition of quality and impeccable service.

1453 Larimer St. 303.534.5855 OsteriaMarco.com

Ototo Newly reopened Ototo offers diners an intimate setting to enjoy Japanese robata-style tapas, sashimi, grilled whole fish and noodles. A robota grill with bincho-tan charcoal infuses a distinct flavor into the food, and an extensive raw bar features catch of the day – fresh and on point. Ototo is the creation of Toshi Kizaki, a well-known fixture of Denver’s culinary scene for more than 30 years.

selection. Signature items include a tableside Caesar salad, seared Colorado bison steak and other creative, contemporary and traditional dishes.

get Cajun cuisine away from home. With friendly service and a lively atmosphere, the only thing more authentic than the dishes is the Southern hospitality.

321 17th St. 303.297.3111

7520 E. Progress Ave. 303.740.9449

BrownPalace.com/Dining/Palace-Arms

Pappadeaux.com

Panzano

P17

Decorated chef Elise Wiggins offers excellent contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Each handmade dish is unique and made with local, organic, sustainable ingredients. An award-winning wine list features hand-selected pairings that will please even the most discriminating palate.

909 17th St. 303.296.3525 Panzano-Denver.com

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

1600 17th Avenue 303.399.0988

ototoden.com

P17Denver.com

Located in the Brown Palace Hotel, this award-winning restaurant blends contemporary American cuisine with an exceptional wine

This restaurant is all about fresh seafood and bold New Orleans flavors. Even Louisiana natives consider this one of the best places to

2335 28th Avenue 303.297.1215 ThePlimoth.com

The Populist

Billing itself as a neighborhood bistro, P17 has a huge base of fans who come for the experience and return for the great food. This is a place that is casual enough to attract the neighborhood crowd, yet chef/owner Mary Nguyen’s creative technique draws people from across town and across the country. She is a masterful chef, and her talent is reflected in her creative dishes.

1501 S. Pearl St. 303.733.2503

Palace Arms

fun, fresh and flavorful. Whether your taste runs toward a smoked salmon salad, smoked pastrami tartine or creatively prepared steak, you won’t be disappointed when you order items that taste as good as they sound.

zAnastasiya Fett

DINING

The Plimoth The menus are constantly changing at The Plimoth, as the restaurant’s team of talented, creative chefs continue creating food that is

This gem of a restaurant has won kudos for so many reasons: the sense of community created by the numerous community tables, the creatively prepared small plates that are simply meant to be savored and shared, and the wonderful food and wine. The menu is fun, the drinks are fun, the experience is … well … fun!

3163 Larimer Street 720.432.3163 The PopulistDenver.com

Postino WineCafe The concept is simple: pair unique, approachable wines with simple foods prepared with local ingredients. This wonderful venue originated in Arcadia, CA and each location pays homage to the surrounding environment. The LoHi location is a reflection of the edgy and vibrant culture, but the menu is understated and great, featuring soups, salads and paninis.

2715 17th St., LoHi 303.433.6363 postinowinecafe.com

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DINING

Root Down

Located in the recently renovated Union Station in Denver’s Lower Downtown neighborhood, Stoic & Genuine has a simple motto: Fresh is everything. This multi-coastal seafood house and oyster bar flies in fresh seafood every day and features an innovative menu. Executive Chef Jennifer Jasinski is also behind three of our other favorite Denver restaurants: Rioja, Bistro Vendôme and Euclid Hall.

Potager Patrons partake in the excitement of vegetables fresh from the earth, fruit right off the branch and fish straight from the sea. Cuisine is determined largely by the availability of ingredients that meet Potager’s high standards of quality and eco-friendliness.

1109 Ogden Ave. 303.832.5788 PotagerRestaurant.com

Racine’s This has been one of the area’s favorite spots for everything from breakfast to late night since opening in 1983. Serving a tried-andtrue mix of award-winning American and Mexican cuisine, Racine’s is also gluten-free.

Located between the Cherry Creek area and downtown Denver.

650 Sherman St. 303.595.0418

The Root Down credo is that food should be sensational, igniting all the senses to create a full dining experience. Following a field to fork mentality, food is as organic, natural and local, as possible, and menus are globally influenced and inspired.

1600 W. 33rd Avenue 303.993.4200 ROOT DOWN DIA Concourse C at Denver International Airport 303.342.6959 RootDownDenver.com

RacinesRestaurant.com

Session Kitchen

range

The space itself is totally cool: great art combined with an oh-so-contemporary vibe, offset by lines from song lyrics that spring up in unexpected places. Chef Scott Parker truly has created a wonderful blend of small plates and large plates, that can be enjoyed and relished in “sessions.”

A very cool Colorado-themed restaurant, housed in an even cooler setting: an historic bank turned hotel, right in the middle of downtown Denver. The delicious food matches the incomparable setting, the bar scene is fun and the sea scallops are not to be missed! Oh, and desserts are awesome too.

918 17th Street 720.726.4800 rangeDowntown.com

1518 S. Pearl St. 720.763.3387 SessionKitchen.com

Spuntino

Revelry Kitchen Housed in the bustling Berkeley neighborhood, Revelry Kitchen is a great place for breakfast and lunch (and of course brunch!). The menu features local ingredients, complemented by Colorado-made beers and spirits. Menu items range from a daily quiche to biscuits and gravy, gravlax with fried capers and mouthwatering enchiladas. And that’s just the beginning!

4140 W. 38th Ave. 303.455.3132 revelrydenver.com

Rioja Featuring a menu inspired by Mediterranean food and influenced by local ingredients, Rioja offers pure food and bright flavors. With a wine list that offers fun, interesting varietals and a menu that features plenty of vegetarian options, this spot is consistently rated among the top restaurants in Denver.

1431 Larimer St. 303.820.2282 RiojaDenver.com

1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station), South of the Great Hall 303.640.3474 StoicAndGenuine.com

Stout Street Social Located directly across from the Denver Center for Performing Arts, Stout Street Social is a great before or after-theater destination. It’s also steps away from the Colorado Convention Center. The menu runs the gamut from steak to sushi, along with fresh oysters and even comfort foods. A great dining option right in the heart of downtown Denver.

1400 Stout St. 720.214.9100 StoutStSocial.com

Sugarmill Chefs Noah French and Troy Guard describe Sugarmill as a dessert lounge with a chef’s counter. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer savory dishes and tasty treats. They specialize in desserts and pastries, but fare ranges from breakfast burritos and gourmet quiche to kale salads and handmade pasta.

2461 Larimer Street 303.297.3540 SugarMillDesserts.com

Sushi Den

unique, fun and colorful concept that delivers freshest delicacies that can be handpicked directly from the conveyor belt, or may select a great variety of small plates. The drink menu is equally fun, and cocktails are served from a rolling beverage cart.

2615 Larimer Street 720.476.4643 SushiRamaDenver.com

Table 6 This classic bistro offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Culinary mastery is evidenced in each succulent dish, delivered with elegant style and grace. His nightly fare is complemented by a dynamic wine list created by owner and sommelier Aaron Forman.

609 Corona St. 303.831.8800 Table6Denver.com

Tables Owners and chefs Amy Vitale and Dustin Barrett transformed this spot into a cozy, eclectic restaurant with personality and charm.

The creative New American cuisine and friendly service at Tables are bright spots. Menus are regularly updated to feature the freshest seasonal ingredients.

2267 Kearney St. 303.388.0299 TablesOnKearney.com

Tag Chef/Owner Troy Guard uses fresh local ingredients to offer a cross-cultural culinary adventure. Guard’s playful cuisine, described as Continental Social Food, melds classic and contemporary styles in a chic urban atmosphere to inspire a sense of community among friends. The menu is unconstrained by national boundaries, drawing from Chef Guard’s Hawaiian rearing and his travels in Asia and Latin America.

1441 Larimer Street 303.996.9985

Located in the bustling Highlands area, Spuntino serves seasonal Italian-inspired cooking from executive chef John Broening and desserts from pastry chef Yasmin Lozada-Hissom. The menu features fresh ingredients from local farms, sustainably raised seafood, locally sourced meats and housemade pastas and breads.

2639 W. 32nd Ave. 303.433.0949 SpuntinoDenver.com

Squeaky Bean The name is as playful as The Squeaky Bean concept, which is to take flavor and presentation seriously, but leave plenty of room for fun and inventiveness. The restaurant features an ever-changing menu of seasonal fare, and the majority of the produce and herbs are grown organically in the restaurant’s own gardens.

1500 Wynkoop Street 303.623.2665 TheSqueakyBean.net

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Stoic & Genuine

Tag-Restaurant.com

Regarded as one of the premier sushi and Japanese restaurants in the U.S. since the mid ’80s, this popular spot continues to set a standard for high-quality cuisine. With its own pesticide-free farm for produce, plus seafood flown in from Japan, Sushi Den leads Denver restaurants in quality.

1487 S. Pearl St. 303.777.0826 SushiDen.net

Sushi-Rama

Tamayo Highly regarded Chef Richard Sandoval delivers a perfect take on modern Mexican cuisine. Sit at the bar and peruse more than 100 tequilas and agave-based spirits, then get ready to indulge. The menu boasts all the delights of Mexico with a contemporary flair, paying tribute to Chef Sandoval’s deeply rooted ties to his grandmother’s and father’s authentic Mexican cooking.

1400 Larimer Square 720.946.1433 richardsandoval.com/Tamayo

Trillium

Celebrated chef Jeff Osaka introduces Denver’s first Kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) to Colorado. And so far, everyone is loving this

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Trillium is an urban eatery centered on rustic cuisine, with dishes rooted in the American and Scandinavian culinary traditions. The building itself is more than 100 years old and once operated as a “wheel and deal” pawnshop. Today, it features the original 14-foot ceilings, an

open, exhibition-style kitchen, exposed wooden beams and pressed tin ceilings. The bar is geared towards small wine producers, eclectic beer offerings and handcrafted cocktails.

2134 Larimer Street 303.379.9759

DINING seamlessly, leading to savory meats and delicious side dishes. Note: This restaurant is closed on Mondays.

TrilliumDenver.com-

2500 Larimer Street 303.292.0700

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill

WorkAndClassDenver.com

With 52 beers on tap and at least 28 local Colorado brews, Thirsty Lion brings in the crowds who are exploring downtown Denver and Union Station. With menu items such as Traditional Scotch Eggs, you really do feel like you’ve entered an authentic English pub, and the extensive beer list will keep you entertained.

So sit back, order up a pint, and watch your favorite sports team on the big screens over the bar.

1605 Wynkoop St. 303.623.0316 thirstyliongastropub.com

Venice Ristorante Enjoy a five-star Venetian dining experience at the three Venice ristorantes (including Venice DTC and Chianti DTC) with the highest of culinary expertise. Enjoy monthly wine dinners, private dining for an event, catering services or a delectable five-course meal. You’ll be amazed by the impeccable service and exquisite authentic Italian cuisine.

1700 Wynkoop St. 303.534.2222 VeniceRistorante.com

Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks

Ya Ya’s

Treat your taste buds to a tour of Europe without the expensive airfare. This lovely bistro caters to the casual diner, with room for business meetings and special occasions. The menu changes daily to ensure the freshest and best quality seafood, steaks, chops and other exquisite entrées.

8310 E. Belleview Ave., Greenwood Village 303.741.1110 YaYasDenver.com

Z Cuisine Bistro The authentic Parisian eatery is located just minutes from LoDo. It offers a daily blackboard menu featuring genuine French fare made with the best local, organic ingredients. For the full French experience, visit the authentic, on-site absinthe bar.

2239 W. 30th Ave. 303.477.1111 ZCuisineOnline.com

Adam Larkey

Zengo

An upscale seafood and steak restaurant with a loyal following, this downtown hotspot enjoys a national reputation. Enjoy lunch, dinner or fabulous happy hour specials in a comfortably chic atmosphere.

1585 Lawrence St. 303.575.9000 WillieGs.com

Work & Class

Chef/owner Richard Sandoval presents a masterful presentation of Latin-Asian dishes that have made Zengo a staple in Denver’s dining community. Dishes are made for sharing, and once you sample the fare you’ll understand why Bon Appetit named Sandoval Restaurateur of the Year. The décor is lively, the handcrafted cocktails are wildly popular and with more than 100 Tequilas, what more could any diner want?

1610 Little Raven Street 720.904.0965 RichardSandoval.com/ZengoDenver

TICKETS:

Owners Tony, Delores and Dana describe the concept behind their restaurant as “a square meal, a stiff drink and a fair price.” The menu blends American and Latin cuisines PRESENTED BY

SUPPORTED BY

AXS.COM

SHOPPING 16th Street Mall

Cherry Creek North

Denver Pavilions

Historic Downtown Golden

Scott Dressel

If you want a change of pace from busy malls or more populated shopping districts, this is definitely the place to be. With one-of-a-kind boutiques that offer all things unique, serious shoppers who want to bring back that hardto-find gift will love this district with a flavor all its own.

Built in 1982, the 16th Street Mall is a treelined, pedestrian promenade that runs through the center of downtown. Lined with outdoor cafés, shops and restaurants, the mall has a great family-friendly atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife. Free shuttle buses cruise the milelong Mall seven days a week.

Entire length of 16th Street 303.534.6161

More than 350 businesses make up the Cherry Creek neighborhood representing local and national brands. Check out this retail and dining area just minutes from downtown where you will find fashion, jewelry and home furnishings, spas, salons, art galleries and restaurants.

East 1st & East 2nd Streets btwn. University Boulevard & Steele Street 303.394.2904 CherryCreekNorth.com

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

DowntownDenver.com

Antique Row Although known locally as “Antique Row,” this eclectic mix of merchants offer the gamut, including high-quality antiques, garden supplies, fine wines, antique rugs, handcrafted picture frames, tiles, vintage lighting, custom furniture craftsmen, a host of fabulous dining and a tea room.

1100-1800 S. Broadway Denver, CO 80210 Antique-Row.com

Aspen Grove Located in Littleton, this pet-friendly, open-air retail village is home to over 55 stores and restaurants, including Pottery Barn, The Gap, Apple, See’s Candies, Hot Mama, Ted’s Montana Grill and more.

7301 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton 303.794.0640 ShopAspenGrove.com

Belmar One of the newest destinations for shopping, dining and events, Belmar is reaching new heights in the Denver scene. Located in the beautiful suburb of Lakewood, Belmar is a trendy escape from the busy city.

408 S. Teller St., Lakewood 303.742.1520 BelmarColorado.com

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Downtown Golden

Located on the 16th Street Mall in the heart of downtown, this three-story, open-air shopping center has it all: 40 shops and restaurants, bowling lanes and a movie theater. Ride the free 16th Street Mall Shuttle to your favorite retailers, including Banana Republic, Express, Forever 21 and H&M. 500 16th St. 303.260.6000 DenverPavilions.com

Flatirons Crossing Set on a rise between Boulder and Denver, Flatirons Crossing invites you to enjoy blue skies, fun restaurants and top-flight movies.

Explore more than 200 fashion and specialty retailers, including Coach, Coldwater Creek, Bebe, BC Surf and Sport, Banana Republic, J. Crew, Papyrus, LOFT and many more.

VisitGolden.com

Historic Downtown Littleton Visit one of the few remaining historic shopping districts along the Front Range and experience a true hometown atmosphere where people smile and take life a little slower. With more than 250 eclectic shopping, dining and entertainment options, you are certain to find just what you’re looking for.

West Main Street btwn. Santa Fe Drive & South Rio Grande, Littleton 303.795.5006 DowntownLittleton.com

Larimer Square

One West Flatiron Crossing, Broomfield 720.887.7467 FlatIronCrossing.com

The Rocky Mountain region’s premier shopping environment features more than 160 shops such as Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren.

Other favorites include Nordstrom, Hyde Park Jewelers, Apple and Coach, plus popular dining hotspots like Elway’s and Kona Grill.

3000 E. 1st Ave. 303.388.3900 ShopCherryCreek.com

Colorado Mills

Golden Triangle Museum District Denver’s Golden Triangle district is brimming with restaurants and culture. Within walking distance of downtown, it features more than 50 galleries, museums and specialty stores. Don’t miss free First Friday Night Art Tours every month from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with complimentary shuttle service.

Bordered by Lincoln Street, Colfax Avenue & Speer Boulevard 720.253.2774

Larimer Street btwn.14th & 15th Streets 303.534.2367 LarimerSquare.com

GoldenTriangleOfDenver.com

Denver’s only indoor outlet mall features highend shops including Coach Factory, Forever 21, Express, H&M, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Last Call by Neiman Marcus and Eddie Bauer Outlet.

Great restaurants round out the mix, along with numerous entertainment options such as United Artists Theaters & IMAX, Jumpstreet and The Putting Edge.

Highlands

14500 W. Colfax Avenue Lakewood, CO 80401 303.384.3000

32nd & Lowell Streets 303.892.1112

Simon.com/Mall/Colorado-Mills

Located in the heart of downtown, the shops at Larimer Square offer a truly distinctive selection of fashion, jewelry, gifts and home accessories for shopping connoisseurs and fashionistas of all ages.

Three diverse commercial districts comprise this neighborhood: cosmopolitan Lower Highlands (LoHi), charming Highlands Square and artsy Tennyson Street. Denver’s largest neighborhood features local and national retailers, restaurants, landmarks, art galleries and entertainment.

Highlands-Square.com

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

LODO Nestled between Coors Field and the Pepsi Center, LoDo is Lower Downtown’s prime destination for fun and trendy shops. The eclectic stores and hip, vibrant historic district offer everything from antiques and ranchwear to fine jewelry and eyewear.

1616 17th St. 303.628.5428 LoDo.org

SHOPPING Old South Gaylord Street

Outlets At Silverthorne

One of the oldest business districts in Denver, here you can find passionate business owners who offer personal service. Old South Gaylord Street offers a variety of upscale boutiques, galleries and restaurants, as well as professional services and talented regional craftsmen.

1059 S. Gaylord St. 303.733.2670 SouthGaylordStreet.com

Old South Pearl Street This laid-back neighborhood features an eclectic mix of shops, boutiques and restaurants. An antidote to the modern megamall, it features seasonal events year-round, oneof-a-kind stores and some of the city’s most popular nightspots.

1569 S. Pearl St. 303.892.1112 SouthPearlStreet.com

Olde Town Arvada With more than 150 unique shops, Olde Town Arvada has plenty of variety. Whether you’re in the market for books, clothing, handmade jewelry, furnishings and antiques or a great restaurant, this vibrant shopping district is full of treasures.

7307 Grandview Ave., Arvada 303.420.6100 OldeTownArvada.org

SouthwestPlaza.com

Tennyson Street Cultural Arts District Nestled in the scenic Rockies, just off I-70 on your way to the mountains, the Outlets at Silverthorne is home to three villages of impressive retail including Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Guess, GAP, Coach, Banana Republic, J Crew, Columbia and more. A beautiful setting for some fabulous buys.

246-V Rainbow Drive, Silverthorne 866.746.7686 OutletsAtSilverthorne.com

Park Meadows A unique and visually stunning retail resort, Park Meadows features fashionable stores and delectable dining choices, along with entertainment and events. With over 165 retailers and 14 full-service restaurants, shoppers experience the classic Colorado lifestyle while enjoying the beautiful resort setting.

8401 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303.792.5384 ParkMeadows.com

Pearl Street Mall

The Outlets at Castle Rock is the largest openair outlet center in Colorado, housing more than 100 name-brand stores, including Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, American Eagle and many more. A short drive from Denver in the town of Castle Rock, a thriving place with fun restaurants and hotspots.

North of downtown Denver RiverNorthArt.com

The Shops at Northfield Stapleton

Outlets at Loveland

8340 Northfield Blvd.

303.375.5475 NorthfieldStapleton.com

Streets at Southglenn This destination builds on the character of the surrounding neighborhood with a mix of retailers, restaurants, entertainment and services.

SouthGlenn is an unmatched upscale shopping, dining and entertainment experience.

Town Center at Aurora

An indoor mall with more than 150 fun stores, including Macy’s, Dillard’s, Aeropostale, Express and Victoria Secret. A neighborhood shopping destination, the Town Center has great options for dining, children’s fashion, home electronics and everything for your style.

14200 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora 303.344.9764 Simon.com/Mall/Town-Center-at-Aurora

ShopSouthglenn.com

Twenty-Ninth Street is the premier mixed-use outdoor shopping center in Boulder. It features local and national eateries and shops, including Anthropologie, Apple, Arthaus Furniture, lululemon athletica, Sephora, California Pizza Kitchen and Nordstrom Rack.

ShopSouthlands.com

Southwest Plaza

Twenty-Ninth Street

1710 29th St., Boulder 303.444.0722 TwentyNinth.com

Village Shops at The Landmark Featuring the best designers in Denver and some of the finest retailers in the world, Village Shops at the Landmark is one of the foremost shopping destinations in the city.

With fabulous restaurants and the nationally renowned Landmark Theater, the Village Shops is a delight for all the senses.

Quebec Street btwn. Belleview & Orchard Greenwood Village, CO 303.892.1112

Btwn. the 1100 & 1400 blocks of Pearl Street Boulder, CO 80302 303.892.1112 BoulderDowntown.com

Located in Northwest Denver between Sheridan and Lowell and 38th and 52nd Ave. BerkeleyDistrict.com

South University Boulevard & E. Arapahoe Road, Centennial 303.539.7141

6155 Main St., Aurora 303.627.5000

A four-block pedestrian mall in Boulder, Pearl Street is home to a number of locally owned businesses and restaurants, national chains and the Boulder County Courthouse. This popular tourist destination is loaded with charm, from the fountains and gardens to the street performers.

Located in the Berkeley District, the Tennyson Cultural Arts District offers music, live performance, film, and art galore. Here you’ll find original photography, a huge open-air market, fine art and everything in between.

Located just minutes from downtown, The Shops at Northfield Stapleton is a pedestrian-friendly, open-air shopping district featuring specialty shops and restaurants including Macy’s, Bass Pro Shops’ Outdoor World and Harkins Theatres 18.

An outdoor lifestyle center with a community plaza and four blocks of retail shops, restaurants and entertainment options, Southlands offerings include a movie theater, Barnes & Noble, Eddie Bauer, Chico’s, Coldwater Creek, The Gap, Charming Charlie, McCabe’s Irish Bistro and Pub, Sports Authority and more.

OutletsAtCastlerock.com

OutletsAtLoveland.com

Situated just north of downtown, RiNo is home to an eclectic mix of galleries, artists, wineries, breweries, and more. If you’re in the market for unique, fabulous art, RiNo is the place to be, with a host of galleries showcasing works by some of the city’s most talented artists.

Southlands

5050 Factory Shops Blvd., Castle Rock 303.688.4495

5661 McWhinney Blvd., Loveland 970.663.1916

four department stores including a Dillard’s flagship store, Panera Bread, Tokyo Joe’s, Chili’s and other shopper favorites.

8501 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton 303.973.7062

Outlets At Castle Rock

A true gem tucked at the foot of the Rockies between Greeley and Fort Collins, the Outlets at Loveland is a great destination for hikers wanting a little shopping to top off a perfect day, or anyone looking for a fun and upscale experience. Featuring more than 40 great outlets, including Ann Taylor, Under Armour, Nike, J.Crew and Gymboree.

River North Art District (RiNo)

VisitTheLandmark.com/Shops.htm

Conveniently located in southwest metro Denver, Southwest Plaza features popular retailers and restaurants such as Forever 21, BC Surf and Sport, Express, Victoria’s Secret, Target,

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ATTRACTIONS Art District On Santa Fe Home to many artists and studios, this arts district has become a national model of success in community revitalization. The art district has cultivated a friendly, welcoming feel for both seasoned collectors and new art lovers.

801 Kalamath St., Denver 303.868.8680 ArtDistrictOnSantaFe.com

Arvada Center for the Arts With two performance venues, three galleries and a multidisciplinary arts education program, the Arvada Center showcases theatrical shows, musical performances and local and touring art exhibitions.

Denver Center Attractions Denver Center Attractions provides a showcase for live theater, touring Broadway shows, acting classes for the community and more, located at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

1101 13th St., Denver 303.893.4100

The Denver Theatre District features a high-tech mix of public performances, art and signage. Located along the 14th Street corridor, it’s less a district and more a giant outdoor art gallery right in the heart of downtown Denver.

511 16th St., Ste. 200, Denver

ArvadaCenter.org

THE GREAT OUTDOORS The Butterfly Pavilion This treasure features a visually thrilling rainforest filled with 1,600 free-flying tropical butterflies, live animal exhibits and interactive fun for all ages.

6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster 303.469.5441 Butterflies.org

1278 Lincoln St., Denver 303.837.8888 ColoradoBallet.org

The Colorado Symphony

Chautauqua Park

As one of the top-ranked facilities in the United States, the Denver Botanic Gardens presents a wide range of grounds and stunning collections from all corners of the world. The gardens host a popular summer concert series, water-lily competitions, tea gardens and many more attractions.

York Street & Mordecai Children’s Garden 1007 York St., Denver 720.865.3500

2300 Steele St., Denver 303.376.4800 DenverZoo.org

Downtown Aquarium Dive into food and fun — and an underwater adventure! Enjoy the Aquarium restaurant and explore more than 1 million gallons of sealife including sharks, otters, tigers and more.

700 Water St., Denver 303.561.4450

BotanicGardens.org

DowntownAquarium.com

Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield

Fiske Planetarium

Situated on a working farm on the banks of Deer Creek, this offers beautiful hiking through fields of wildflowers, fantastic bird-watching and a new butterfly experience.

What’s your sign? Test your astronomy knowledge at the University of Colorado’s popular planetarium. Check out the dazzling array of laser and star shows, live star talks and more.

2414 Regent Dr., Boulder 303.492.5002

BotanicGardens.org

Fiske.Colorado.edu

Mount Goliath Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Flatirons Vista Trailhead

900 Baseline Rd., Boulder 303.442.3282

Located 17 miles from Idaho Springs near Mt. Evans, this stunning area abounds with wildflowers and wildlife. Great views and hiking trails make this a local gem.

Seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike flock here. Located just outside Denver, it boasts exceptional fishing and water recreation. Visit the surrounding state parks to enjoy outdoor pursuits all year.

4201 S. Parker Rd., Aurora 303.866.3437

Colorado State Parks Colorado is home to 42 breathtaking state parks, giving visitors a variety of opportunities to experience the beauty of nature. Park activ-

Bailey, CO 80421 720.865.3585

Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, trail running and picnicking on the Trailhead’s 2-mile or 3-mile loop through the Ponderosa pines and meadows along the Flatirons.

3663 State Hwy. 93, Boulder 303.441.3440 ProTrails.com/trails

BotanicGardens.org

Denver Mountain Parks The entire parks system contains more than 14,000 acres of parklands in the mountains and foothills just west of downtown. It also encompasses a wide variety of striking Colorado terrain, perfect for activities including hiking, dining al fresco and sightseeing.

303.987.7800 DenverMountainParks.wordpress.com

ColoradoSymphony.org

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From the birth of an exotic animal to the exhilaration of a world-class exhibit opening, the area’s largest zoo is an adventure for the senses.

Discover nearly 3,500 different animals living on 80 acres within Denver’s historic City Park.

8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton 720.865.4336

Cherry Creek Reservoir

1000 14th St., No. 15, Denver 303.623.7876

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Chautauqua movement of the early 1900s promoted simplicity, learning and art appreciation. That spirit lives on in this haven for cultural enrichment. Rental cottages are available at the park, one of 20 National Historic Landmarks in Colorado.

Chautauqua.com

Performing traditional, modern and classical works, the Colorado Symphony offers yearround concerts featuring everything from light summer shows to performances by celebrated musicians.

Parks.State.CO.us

Denver Theatre District

6901 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada 720.898.7200

A treat for classical and modern dance enthusiasts, the Colorado Ballet boasts 30 members from around the globe presenting a variety of exciting performances.

1313 Sherman St., Denver 303.866.3437

DenverCenter.org

DenverTheatreDistrict.com

Colorado Ballet

Denver Zoo

ities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, snowboarding and more may be enjoyed seasonally.

Scott Dressel

ARTS VENUES

denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge This area supports more than 330 species of wildlife, including bald eagles, hawks, mule deer and more, on a 15,000-acre expanse of shortgrass prairie. Reconnect with nature at one of the finest conservation success stories in history.

6550 Gateway Rd., Commerce City 303.289.0232 fws.gov/Rocky_Mountain_Arsenal

ATTRACTIONS Washington Park

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

At more than 100 years old, the area known to locals as Wash Park is one of the largest parks in Denver. Located in the south central part of town, it features flower gardens, a 2.6-mile jogging trail, two lakes, a bowling green, tennis courts and more.

South Downing Street & East Louisiana Ave, Denver 303.698.4692 WashPark.com

MUSEUMS Children’s Museum of Denver Engage with interactive playscapes, daily educational programming and popular special events. Serving children and their grown-ups, the museum provides a dynamic leaning environment to explore and discover.

2121 Children’s Museum Dr., Denver 303.433.7444

1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver 303.832.4092 MollyBrown.org

Museum of Contemporary Art Denver For more than 100 years, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science has allowed visitors to explore the cosmos and uncover brilliant gems and minerals. Enjoy the IMAX theater and planetarium or go toe-to-toe with a T-Rex … if you dare!

2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver 303.370.6000 DMNS.org

Kirkland Museum of Fine & Contemporary Art

MyChildrensMuseum.org

Clyfford Still Museum The Clyfford Still collection represents one of the most comprehensive single-artist collections in the world, encompassing approximately 2,400 works, most never before exhibited. The venue is as fascinating as the subjects within.

Featuring regional, national and international artists, the vast array of rotating exhibits and public educational programs promotes creative experimentation with art and ideas for visitors of all ages.

1485 Delgany St., Denver 303.298.7554 MCADenver.org

Wings Over The Rockies Air & Space Museum Located on the former grounds of Lowry Air Force Base, Colorado’s Air and Space Museum offers a trip through the state’s rich aeronautics history from distinctive aircraft nose art to stirring exhibits.

7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver 303.360.5360

ClyffordStillMuseum.org

Denver Art Museum

1311 Pearl St., Denver 303.832.8576 KirklandMuseum.org

Littleton Museum Presenting a glimpse into the history, art and culture of a town that dates back to the 1850s Gold Rush era. The museum features two farms, a small lake, a collections center and main exhibition area.

DenverArtMuseum.org

400 S. Kearney St., Denver 303.647.6522 MizelMuseum.org

Molly Brown Museum Experience the legacy of the Unsinkable Molly Brown, a leading socialite and philanthropist best known as one of the survivors of the RMS

DenverColiseum.com

Elitch Gardens America’s only downtown theme park and waterpark has operated consecutively for more than 120 years. Elitch is sheer fun, making this a go-to destination for locals and out-of-town visitors.

2000 Elitch Circle, Denver 303.595.4386 ElitchGardens.com

Pepsi Center

1000 Chopper Circle, Denver 303.405.1111

Beaming through the Denver skyline is the gold-plated dome of the state Capitol building. Opened in 1894, it stands as a living museum of history and an active seat of state government. See where legislation takes place in the House and Senate chambers during free daily tours.

200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver 303.866.2604 Colorado.gov

Coors Field

PepsiCenter.com

Sports Authority Field At Mile High There’s no shortage of Bronco fans in Denver, especially not in the team’s legendary stadium.

This is hallowed NFL ground where John Elway once ruled.

1701 Bryant St., Denver 720.258.3000 SportsAuthorityFieldatMileHigh.com

MillerCoors Brewery Tour Experience traditional beer brewing in the Rocky Mountains. Become acquainted with malting, brewing and packaging processes, then sip a cold sample while resting on icecube benches in the fresh beer room.

Mizel Museum

100 W. 14th Avenue Pkwy., Denver 720.865.5000

4600 Humboldt St., Denver 720.865.2475

Colorado State Capitol

Littletongov.org/museum

A fascinating series of exhibits and programs describes the Jewish experience, ceremonies and festivals at the Mizel. With fine art, film, literature and drama fueled by interactive experience, it’s a celebration of diversity.

For 60 years, the Coliseum has hosted such events as the acclaimed National Western Stock Show, concerts, ice skating and auto and trade shows.

OTHER VENUES

6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton 303.795.3950

Founded in 1893, the city’s largest museum is one of the most storied in the state with more than 68,000 pieces of art. With an extensive American Indian collection, the museum is a must-see for lovers of culture and art.

Denver Coliseum

Opened in 1999, this modern sports arena is home to the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche and the Colorado Mammoth. It’s also a popular concert venue featuring appearances by music megastars and top performers.

WingsMuseum.org

With painting, sculpture, furniture, ceramics and an eclectic hodgepodge of classic works from the past 100 years, this one-of-a-kind facility features some of the best-known designers of our time.

1250 Bannock St., Denver 720.354.4880

Titanic. The beautifully preserved museum offers a unique window into the inspirational life of an American hero.

13th & Ford St., Golden 303.277.2337 MillerCoors.com

The 76-acre Coors Field stands at 20th and Blake Streets in Denver’s lower downtown/ballpark neighborhood and is home to the Colorado Rockies. Fans sitting in the first-base and right-field areas are treated to a spectacular view of the Rocky Mountains.

Waterworld This massive venue offers 46 water adventures on 64 beautifully landscaped acres. Thrill rides abound, including Colorado’s only magnetic water coaster, and 3 separate children’s play areas.

2001 Blake St., Denver 303.292.0200

8801 N. Pecos St., Denver 303.427.7873

Colorado.Rockies.MLB.com

WaterWorldColorado.com

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parting shot

Top of the World. For anyone who loves a challenge, the climbing wall in the heart of Copper Mountain can’t be beat. Guests are invited to scale Colorado’s largest outdoor climbing wall, where routes are available for all skill levels. Still not sure you’re up to the task? Never fear … harnesses, ropes and trained staff are standing by!

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denver + colorado :: the guide to dining, shopping and entertainment