Exploring Denver: A Guide to the Mile High City's Attractions and Activities
Denver, the Mile High City, is a place where adventure meets culture and nature. I visited Denver this month (January) and loved how welcoming the locals were! And, whether you're a local or a tourist, there's always something fun and exciting to do in Denver. Here are some of the top things to do in the city to make the most of your visit.
What to see in Denver
Take a hike in the Rocky Mountains. Denver is just a stone's throw away from the beautiful Rocky Mountains, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. From easy nature walks to challenging mountaineering, there's something for everyone. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains.
Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens. This beautiful garden is home to over 35,000 plants from all over the world. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the colorful flowers, exotic plants, and beautiful water features. The gardens are a great place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
Explore Denver's art scene. Denver is home to a thriving art community with plenty of galleries, museums, and performance spaces to explore. Check out the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, or the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
Experience the Denver Zoo. The Denver Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from all over the world. Take a walk through the zoo and see lions, tigers, bears, and other exotic animals up close. The zoo also has a great selection of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.
Go shopping at the 16th Street Mall, which is one of Denver's shopping destinations. It's a pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall with over 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking for designer fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious food, you'll find it all at the 16th Street Mall.
Catch a game at Coors Field. Denver is home to the Rockies, a professional baseball team that plays at Coors Field. Catch a game and enjoy the beautiful views of the city while cheering on your team.
Take a day trip to Boulder. Boulder is a charming college town located just 30 minutes from Denver. It's a great place to explore the outdoors, with plenty of hiking and biking trails and a vibrant downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Take a brewery tour. Denver is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with plenty of breweries to explore. Take a tour of some of the local breweries and sample some of the delicious beers that are brewed in the city.
Visit the Denver Mint. The Denver Mint is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Take a tour of the mint and see how coins are made, as well as learn about the history of the mint.
Enjoy the nightlife. Denver has a vibrant bar scene, with plenty of bars and music venues to explore. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a wild party, you'll find it in Denver. A personal favorite: Run for the Roses — a cocktail bar on the Dairy Block.
WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER
The Cooper Lounge
I stayed at The Crawford Hotel, located in Denver's Union Station, which is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a luxurious and unique experience in the Mile High City. This stunning hotel offers guests a chance to step back in time and experience the glamour of the 1920s! The hotel features 114 guest rooms and suites, all of which are beautifully appointed with vintage-inspired decor and modern amenities. I stayed in the Classic Guest Room for four nights, which offered a unique and comfortable experience.
One of the highlights of staying at The Crawford Hotel was dining at the hotel's award-winning restaurant, The Cooper Lounge. This restaurant offers a menu of classic American dishes with a modern twist and features a beautiful bar and lounge area.
Also, during my stay here, I took a short walk to the Denver Art Museum and the 16th Street Mall — a free mall bus is also available. The hotel is also just a short drive from the Denver Botanic Gardens (another personal favorite!) — making it the perfect base for exploring the city and the surrounding area.