Search South Aurora May 2024

LOVE your hair

Kat is the best ever!!! Everyone loves my hair. Kat makes you feel as though you’re the only client she has. Warm and extremely friendly. I come from Rock to Parker and would Travel anywhere to have her do my hair!

~ Marcia

I have very fine natural blond hair with no body. Cindy does a fantastic cut and style that is easy for me to maintain.

~ Anonymous

Lena did my hair and my sister’s hair today and we are both look awesome. A joy to have someone do your hair and not have to worry about how it’s going to turn out, it turns out great every time for both of us. I really wouldn’t think of going anywhere else. And in the outside Chance that Lena is not there we both once had to have someone else at the salon to take care of us. And the results were equally as satisfying. What a joy to find a salon that gets it right every time.

~ Dede

Cerese is the best! After searching for years, I finally found the perfect stylist! ~ Andrean

Leah is great!! So knowledgeable, so professional and always gives an amazing

~ Gavin

SOUTH AURORA STAFF HAPPY CAMPER

Popular camping sites and hidden gems around the state. BY SEARCH SOUTH AURORA STAFF

The

STAFF

Tagawa

Grow Your Garden

WE ASKED AN EXPERT

How to Help Your Veggies Grow

Avid

Gardner and Tagawa

Garden Ambassador Luan Akin

Five Tips for Home-grown Veggies

In our enthusiasm to get our veggie gardens up and growing, now’s a good time to dust off some basic do’s and don’ts before we start to plant.

Give your plant the right light

Whether you’re growing in containers or garden beds, the right light can make all the difference in how well a vegetable crop will do.

Fruit-producing crops like tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers and beans need six to eight hours of full sun. Leafy crops like different varieties of lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard and other greens prefer four to six hours of sun. They’ll appreciate some protection from the harshest after light.

Good soil is a must

Never skip on providing good soil. If you’re planting in garden beds, work in two to three inches of compost when the beds are dry. If you’re growing in containers, it’s ideal to replace all of the soil each season. But if you’d like to stretch your gardening dollars and the old soil is free of insects and disease, thoroughly mix in half new soil.

Grow what you know you like

Be sure to include what you and your family love to eat. Cherry tomatoes for the kids, maybe? Herbs for cooking or cucumbers for great summer salads? But if room permits, be adventurous! How about little shishito peppers for stir-fries? Or tasty scarlet runner beans that also bring in the hummers?

Dry roots won’t make for tasty veggies

If you’re planting from seed, this is critical: Without enough water, once seeds sprout, they don’t wilt. They die. Never let your seed bed dry out. A light watering two or even three times a day may be needed until leaves are clearly visible.

If you’re starting from small veggie plants, make sure their tiny root system never dries out. As the plants grow, give them enough water to soak down to the lowest roots.

Fertilize properly

Don’t love your plants to death. Follow the feeding instructions on the product’s label. Too much fertilizer can easily burn your plants or invite hungry insects and ruin what could have been a great crop!

CELEBRATING MOTHERS

BY BRET TUELLER

It has been said that the highest and noblest work in this life is that of a mother. Honestly, I don't know if that gives mothers enough credit.

Think of the myriad roles a mother plays in the life of her children: nurturer, doctor, banker, chauffeur, chef, judge, coach, stylist, housekeeper, manager, party planner, referee, psychologist, repairman, teacher, waitress, photographer ... the list can go on for a while.

I can think of no other venture, accomplishment, or triumph that can have as far-reaching of an impact as that of a mother. Mothers shape our lives, our character, and the very fabric of our reality. To be a mother is to sacrifice for others, and there is no greater love than that. Even the very act of becoming a mother by bringing a child into this world is a miracle, and a true act of sacrifice.

Abraham Lincoln said, "All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." I feel the same way about my mother and the mother of my children. Never underestimate the impact a mother can have.

My heart does go out to those who are not able to be mothers. I cannot imagine their pain and the courage they display to embrace those around them who have the thing they covet most. My admiration and respect is equal for those in that situation.

To all the women out there, you are magnificent. Thank you for your sacrifice, love, and tireless example. Our community is great because of our mothers.

A personal thank you to Cauleen, Connie, and Amber! Happy Mother's Day.

Happy Camper

Enjoying the great outdoors is one of the biggest benefits of living in the heart of some of the most picturesque landscape anywhere in the country. Whether you prefer “glamping” it up in an RV or pitching a tent for the weekend, there are hundreds of choices for a get-a-away to the wilderness. According to 50campfires.com, these are some of the gems located close to home!

Chatfield State Park, LittletonReservoir waters in the park allows boating, skiing, sailing or fishing. There are 26 miles of hiking and biking trails and 197 campsites to choose from, all with electrical hookups and many with water and sewer hook ups as well. Better to call ahead and make a reservation. (303) 791-7275 or email at Chatfield.park@state.co.us

Cherry Creek, Aurora -

Just east of Denver, centered in the 880 acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, Cherry Creek Campground offers water sports including jet skiing and swimming. You can also enjoy horseback riding trails as well as open space for flying model airplanes and shooting ranges. 131 campsites can accommodate tents and RVs with 50amp full hook up pull throughs. There is also a dog park onsite and WiFi available. Go to www.cpwshop. com for more info or to make a reservation.

Camp Dick, Aurora -

History buffs will appreciate the origins of this campground, originally

established in 1930s as a Civilian Conservation Corp camp. Right on the banks of St. Vrain Creek, it’s the perfect spot for fly-fishing. You can bring your mountain bike and cruise along one of the many trails at the campsite, taking in the gorgeous scenery. All sites can accommodate both tents or RVs and each includes a picnic table and fire ring with a grill rack. There are no showers on site, so if you want to rinse off, you’ll have to do it the old fashioned way, in one of the nearby lakes! For more information or to book your dates go to www.recreation.gov

Cold Springs, Idaho Springs–

A little under 40 miles from Denver, Cold Springs offers a variety of hiking trails, some easy enough to manage with little ones and one much steeper, but shorter trail that rewards hikers with an incredible view from the top. There are 38 sites that will accommodate tents and RVs (but not RVs with slide-outs.) Vault toilets are also accessible on-site. If you are a Jeep lover, Cold Springs has great off-road trails too! To book your site, go to www.reserveamerica.com

Rainbow Lakes near Nederland -

If you’re looking for an authentic, old-school , tent only camping trip, this is the destination for you. Just about an hour north of Denver, this campground has 18 different sites that are all first come, first serve (so get there early!) Picnic tables and fire rings are available at each site and vault toilets are accessible as well. There is no source of drinking water at Rainbow Lakes, so be sure to pack in your own supply. While you’re there, explore the Rainbow Lakes Trail, which takes you on a short hike through the string of ponds that are great fishing spots. Or check out the Arapaho Glacier overlook off Glacier Rim Trail. For more details, go to www.fs.usda.gov.

Kelly Flats, Ft. Collins -

In the heart of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest, this 29 site campground offers a peaceful ambiance, with camp sites surrounded by towering evergreens. Of the 29 sites, 19 will accommodate RVs up to 65 feet, but there are no hookups and the remaining 10 sites are reserved for tents only.

Those tall trees offer up a bit of privacy between sites and to add to the beauty of it all, the Cache La Poudre River runs right through the campground. This river is the only one in Colorado designated as a “Wild and Scenic River” by the National Park Service, which allows for an abundance of fishing opportunities. Go to www.fs.usda. gov for more information.

Moraine Park, Estes Park -

Just northwest of Denver, Moraine Park Campground, located in the Rocky Mountain National Forest, offers up adventure at every turn. Within the park there are 355 miles of hiking trails, three different lakes for water sports and activities, and much more! The 245 sites are available on a first come, first serve basis and can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers, but there are no hookups. Group sites are available to accommodate groups of 1040 people. For more information, go to www.recreation.gov. Also in the Estes Park area is Aspenglen Campgound. Aspenglen boasts 53 sites for both tents and small RVs (up to 30 feet) but there are no hookups available.

Carter Lake, Loveland -

Right on the edge of the Columbia River, Carter Lake is a very popular spot for tourists and residents. All sites are paved and include 20amp, 30amp or 50amp full hookup options. If you don’t want to “rough it” too much, there is a place to do laundry, free wifi and you will be within walking distance to lots of dining and shopping. Reservations are required, go to www.reserveamerica.com.

Painted Rocks, Woodland Park–

This campground got its name from the gorgeous colors on nearby sandstone outcroppings. Painted Rocks is located on the edge of a grassy meadow, not far from Manitou Lake. Both tent and RV sites are available and come equipped with a fire ring and picnic tables. Toilets and drinking water are also accessible from the campsite. Visit www.recreation.gov for more information.

Parry Peak, Leadville -

The first come, first serve sites at Parry Peak go quickly as it is a fantastic spot for creekside camping. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs up to 32 feet (but there are no hookups.) Boating, swimming and fishing are options at Twin Lakes or you can go hiking on the Colorado Trail. This 500 mile trail extends from Denver to Durango! If out of this world views are more your thing, climb up to Mount Elbert’s summit and see what the world looks like from 14,433 feet! Go to cpw.state. co.us for more information.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Colorado Springs -

An hour and a half from Denver is a camper’s paradise. The park is located on 2,700 acres with 51 full service RV hookup sites and 10 walk-in tent sites, both equipped with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities. There are also group sites available for campers traveling with larger numbers. The Wyoming state park also offers an archery range with regular field and 3D targets. For more information, go to cpw.state. co.us

Mueller State, Divide -

If sightings of wildlife are a draw, this is the campground destination you need to hit. Mueller State is home to black bears, elk, hawks, mule deer and many bird and small mammals. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and horseback riding during warmer months as well as cross country skiing and sledding during the winter season. Spaces for tents and RVs are available as well as the capability to rent yurts and cabins! There are also five different geocaches located throughout the park! Go to cpw.state.co.us for more information.

Green Ridge, Granby -

If you are willing to drive just a bit further from Denver, Green Ridge is an idyllic spot for a wonderful weekend. Nestled between the Colorado River and Shadow Mountain Reservoir, it’s the perfect spot for fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking and canoeing. You might be able to get in some whitewater rafting as well. There are 73 sites for tent and RVs with flush toilets nearby. Pack the sunscreen though, between the water and the beetle damaged trees; there is not a lot of shade to be had here. If you want a little more shade in the Granby area, head to Sunset Point. There are 25 non-electric sites that will accommodate tents, trailers and RVS, all with lots of shade from the summer sun. Each site comes with a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring for cooking. Lake Granby offers boating, swimming fishing and canoeing. This gorgeous, lakefront site also boasts a panoramic view of Table Mountain as well. Go to www. recreation.gov for more details.

PARKER’S FAVORITE WEEKEND!

Shopping H FOOD H EXHIBITS H MUSIC H RIDES H FAMILY FUN

THURSDAY, JUNE 13 1 pm – 10:30 pm: Carnival Only

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

Fri 1 pm – 10:30: Carnival Fri 4 pm – 10:30 pm: Fesival

FUN THINGS TO DO:

• Enjoy your Favorite Festival Food

• Shopping Marketplace

• Music on Four Stages

• Street Performers

• Carnival Rides for the Whole Family

• Free Kids Crafts

• Silent Disco – Dance, Dance, Dance!

• Get Dizzy in a Water Bubble

• Bungy Jumping

• Jump and Slide on the Inflatables

• Nurf Terf Battles (Nurf version of Paintball)

AIR ACADEMY CREDIT UNION

EAST MUSIC Stage

Live Music ALL Day

Friday 8 pm – 10 pm Sisters of Rock Saturday 8 pm – 10 pm Shelvis and the Roustabouts

Sunday 6:30 pm – 8 pm

Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts

SATURDAY, JUNE 15 Sat 10 am – 10:30 pm

SUNDAY, JUNE 16 Sun 10 am – 8:30 pm

MAIN STAGE – Live Music ALL Day HEADLINERS:

Friday, June 14 presented by 8:00 pm – 10:30 pm: Kory Brunson Band

Saturday, June 15 presented by 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm: Wash Park Band

CARNIVAL RIDES & GAMES: presented by

Sunday, June 16 presented by 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm: That Eighties Band

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

BUY DISCOUNTED UNLIMITED CARNIVAL RIDE WRISTBANDS ONLINE

Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $35 each

Good any one day during the festival

Sold online through 12 noon Wed. June 12

4-Day MEGA Unlimited Carnival Rides: $89 each

Good all 4 days of the festival

PURCHASE DURING THE FESTIVAL

Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $40 each

TICKETS FOR INDIVIDUAL RIDES

Food, Beverage & Ride Tickets may be purchased at Festival Ticket Booths.

CORE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE Community Stage

Entertainment ALL Day supported by Allegro Music

In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.

KEY

Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.

$ ............................. Under $15 $$ ............................... $15-$25

$$$ ......................... Over $25 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New

Asian fusion

CHERRY VILLAGE

ASIAN GRILL

Offering a Chinese and Vietnamese-centric menu in a relaxed atmosphere. 17001 Lincoln Ave, #A, Parker 303-840-7338 $$

DANCING NOODLE

A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food.

10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$

INDOCHINE

A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.

19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$

JOHN HOLLY’S Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.

9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$

THE GUIDE

THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY

JUNZ

More than just great sushi! Junz has been a local staple for years and remains one of the premier destinations for a casual night out or fine dining experience. If you are seeking a great restaurant to get acquainted with Japanese cuisine, look no further than Junz.

JUNZ

A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.

11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-851-1005 $$

BAKERY/DESSERTs

LA PETITE CREPERIE

The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.

19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)

PARIS BAGUETTE

Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone.

18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker

720-500-5555 $ (N)

POULETTE BAKESHOP

New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day! 19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)

BARBEQUE

BIG JIMS

Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$

GQUE BBQ

Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$

HICKORY HOUSE

The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$

OLD WEST BBQ

A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $

BREW PUB

20 MILE TAP HOUSE

Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$

GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE

Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)

ROCKYARD BREWING CO.

Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$

TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL

Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends. 19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$

THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN

Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$

ITalian

CRANELLI’S

Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.

10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$

DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN

Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.

872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$

PORTOFINO

Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$

SCILEPPI’S

A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$

VIA BACI

Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$

MEXICAN

ADRIANNA’S

Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$

CASA MARIACHI

Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.

9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$

LA CASITA

Vibrant, cantina-style eatery offering Mexican cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.

18951 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-842-5181 $$

LAS DELICIAS

Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner. 19553 E Mainstreet, Parker

303-840-0325 $$

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.

19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker

303-840-6574 $$

LOS VOLCANES

Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.

10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$

new american

CASTLE CAFE

Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.

403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$

VALERIE'S

BREWHOUSE

Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.

971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $

CRAVE

A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes.

3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$

DOUG'S DAY DINER

American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.

18595 Mainstreet, Parker

720-476-7162 $$

MANNA

A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $

PARKER GARAGE

The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)

PEGASUS

A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.

313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$

RORY’S

Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it! Downtown gem. 11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$

SIERRA

High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$

TRIBE AT RIVERWALK

Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don't miss the brunch. 115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)

WEST MAIN TAPROOM

A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$

PIZZA

ANTONIO’S

A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $

ARTISAN

Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $

COLORADOUGH

A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$

LIL’ RICCI’S

New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$

PARRY’S

NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$