Denver

The mile-high city of Denver, Colorado, offers the perfect destination for travelers looking for sun, snow, U.S. history or sports. Gaining popularity in the 19th century because of the Colorado Gold Rush, this colorful city grew to a population of almost 3 million. Denver supports a rich culture of music and art as well as a commitment to a greener society.

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Visitors arrive at Denver International Airport, located 23 miles from downtown. The Regional Transportation District provides convenient public transportation into the city, and taxis are also available. Rated No. 10 among the largest downtown areas in America, Denver is a walkable city. Within only a one-mile radius, travelers can visit sports stadiums, museums, restaurants, scenic views and more. Other options are bikes, scooters and the RTD, or use a ride share service like Uber or Lyft.

LODGING

The Crawford Hotel

Housed in the historic Denver Union Station, the one-of-a-kind architecture of the old train depot has been preserved, making each room unique. For an extra $20 a day, guests can enjoy free coffee from PigTrain Coffee Co., courtesy Tesla transportation within a two-mile radius, one daily scoop of ice cream per guest, complimentary craft beer daily 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the terminal bar, and myriad discounts from local vendors and restaurants.

1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, CO 80202, tel 720 460 3700 thecrawfordhotel.com

Le Méridien Denver Downtown

Le Méridien offers luxury comfort steps from Denver’s local art district. Guests can enjoy top-of-the-line bedding, the fitness center and five dining options. The highest openair rooftop bar in Denver, 54thirty, offers cocktails, small plates and gorgeous views of the downtown skyline. Le Méridien welcomes pets up to 50 pounds for a daily $50 fee.

1475 California St., Denver CO 80202, tel 303 893 1888 marriott.com

Omni Interlocken Hotel

Located just 25 minutes from the heart of Denver, Omni Interlocken is a resort for the whole family. Guests can enjoy a 27-hole golf course, a spa day at Mokara Spa, swimming in the heated pools surrounded by mountains, and dining at one of five options.

500 Interlocken Blvd., Broomfield, CO 80021, tel 303 438 6600 omnihotels.com

Out in the Open:

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

PHOTO: © SEAN PAVONE | DREAMSTIME.COM

DINING

Denver Biscuit Co.

For some Southern charm, visit Denver Biscuit Co. The menu has everything from savory biscuits with shrimp, chicken, sausage or catfish to sweet ones with strawberries, cinnamon, honey and jam.

141 S. Broadway, Denver, CO 80209, tel 303 377 7900 denbisco.com

Denver Milk Market

Sixteen different vendors create a foodie dream destination at Denver Milk Market. Travelers can enjoy fried chicken, poke bowls, craft beer, seafood, bao buns, barbecue, ice cream and more.

800 Wazee St. No. 100, Denver, CO 80202, tel 303 792 8242 denvermilkmarket.com

Number Thirty Eight

Six-Michelin-starred chef Merlin Verrier curates a unique mix of Asian and Mexican cuisine. Menu highlights include bao buns, tacos, bowls, salads and pizza. Live music takes the stage Thursdays through Sundays, and volleyball courts are available for $20 an hour.

3560 Chestnut Place, Denver, CO 80216, tel 303 493 6651 nmbr38.com

ATTRACTIONS

Breweries

Denver is home to many breweries, large and micro. Great Divide Brewing Co., Coors, TRVE Brewing Co. and dozens more all have facilities located in close proximity to one another.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

This open-air amphitheater seats more than 9,500 guests. Many notable musicians such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and U2 played in this space. Visitors can take in views; visit Red Rocks Hall of Fame; or enjoy hiking, biking and yoga.

18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465, tel 720 865 2494 redrocksonline.com

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

This 15,988-acre refuge sits on the grounds of a former U.S. Army arsenal. Today travelers can grab a pair of binoculars and spot coyotes, black-footed ferrets, prairie dogs, bison and more.

6550 Gateway Road, Commerce City, CO 80022, tel 303 289 0930 fws.gov/refuge/rocky_mountain _arsenal