Travel around Denver with Bobby
One of the main reasons I chose to visit Denver was its perfect blend of city life and nature. Being right next to the Rocky Mountains offers endless opportunities for adventure and outdoor activities at any moment. Additionally, its rich art and cultural scene attracted me; here, you can explore modern art museums and dive into the history of Western culture. Denver’s vibrant nightlife and its renowned craft beer culture allowed me to try unique flavors in the evenings. As a traveler seeking both adventure and culture, Denver provided everything I was looking for!
Day 1Arrival at the Mile-High City and Exploring Historic Streets
As soon as I landed in Denver, the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the city’s vibrant energy swept me off my feet. My first stop was Union Station, a lively hub that perfectly captures the spirit of Denver. More than just a train station, it’s filled with cafes, trendy restaurants, and boutiques. I grabbed a coffee and took in the historic atmosphere of the station, ready to start exploring the city’s historic areas.
Leaving Union Station, I strolled around LoDo (Lower Downtown), Denver’s oldest neighborhood with cobblestone streets and historic buildings that take you on a journey back in time. LoDo is fantastic for both shopping enthusiasts and history buffs. If you’re lucky enough to catch a game at Coors Field with the Colorado Rockies, it’s an incredible way to experience the spirit of Denver alongside locals.
In the afternoon, I headed to Larimer Square, the city’s oldest block, lined with Victorian buildings. I picked up a few souvenirs from vintage shops and soaked up Denver’s charm. Toward the end of the day, I visited the Denver Art Museum. Renowned for its Western American and Native American art collections, the museum’s architecture alone is a sight to behold. Spending time here reflects Denver’s deep love for art.
Wandering through Denver’s historic areas is the perfect way to feel the city’s cultural roots. Don’t miss LoDo and Larimer Square for a taste of Denver’s unique character!
Day 2Red Rocks and a Rocky Mountain Adventure
On my second day, I set out early for an outdoor adventure. Just a 30-minute drive from Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a one-of-a-kind natural concert venue nestled among massive red rock formations. Taking a morning hike in this extraordinary setting, I felt like I was on another planet with the stunning landscape surrounding me. The amphitheater is legendary for its concerts, and if you can catch a show here, the acoustics and atmosphere are magical.
After Red Rocks, I headed to Golden, a quaint town nearby that exudes an old Western feel and is home to the Coors Brewery. Touring the brewery was fascinating, as I learned about the beer-making process and tasted fresh brews. Golden’s mountain views and welcoming vibe provide a peaceful escape from the city. I strolled around the town’s historic streets, visiting local artisan shops and picking up a few mementos.
I grabbed a hearty breakfast at Sassafras American Eatery, which specializes in Southern comfort food with a Colorado twist. Lunch in Golden at Bridgewater Grill featured fresh, flavorful options with beautiful mountain views, and the local Coors beer made it a perfect stop. Dinner was casual yet satisfying at Mountain Toad Brewing, with tasty local brews and food trucks.
Food
Staying at Origin Red Rocks, a hotel designed for outdoor enthusiasts and concertgoers, was ideal for a day focused on Red Rocks. The rooms were cozy and rustic with thoughtful touches like yoga mats and local guides. Its proximity to Red Rocks Park made it a top choice for my adventure.
Accomodation
The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre was simply spectacular, offering jaw-dropping views and some fun, challenging hiking trails. The visit to Golden was equally refreshing, and the Coors Brewery Tour was both informative and fun. The unique landscape and outdoor vibe of Red Rocks made for an unforgettable day.
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Red Rocks Park is an absolute must. Experiencing nature while standing in such a legendary venue is something every traveler should enjoy.
Day 3Art, Culture, and Denver’s Famous Craft Beer Scene
I dedicated my third day to Denver’s cultural scene. I started the day with breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery in Union Station, indulging in their famous pancake flight—a must for breakfast lovers. Fueled up, I made my way to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. From dinosaur fossils to space exploration, this museum offers an impressive array of interactive exhibits perfect for visitors of all ages.
In the afternoon, I explored RiNo (River North Art District), known for its vibrant street art and modern galleries. As I wandered through RiNo’s graffiti-covered streets, I felt like I was in an open-air museum. For dinner, I visited The Source, a modern food hall featuring some of Denver’s top culinary spots. I savored a bison burger at Acorn and tried a range of craft beers at Crooked Stave.
Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery was exceptional, with their famous pancake flight offering diverse and creative flavors. Lunch at Comal Heritage Food Incubator was a cultural treat, serving authentic Mexican and Syrian dishes made by local immigrant chefs. For dinner, I dined at The Source food hall, sampling dishes from Acorn and enjoying some innovative local dishes with craft beers.
Food
For a change, I opted for The Ramble Hotel in the RiNo district, which offers stylish rooms and an art-inspired atmosphere. Each room felt cozy yet chic, with views of the art district. It was the perfect base to explore the vibrant neighborhood.
Accomodation
Exploring the Denver Museum of Nature & Science was a highlight, with engaging exhibits that appealed to visitors of all ages. Walking through the RiNo Art District afterward, I admired the stunning murals and unique art galleries, especially the colorful street art. RiNo’s energy was contagious and showcased Denver’s artistic side beautifully.
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RiNo Art District is a place where Denver’s creativity shines. If you’re a fan of vibrant street art and innovative cuisine, spend a full day here.
Day 4Golden Mornings and Denver Nights
On my last day in Denver, I opted for a more local experience. I had breakfast at Lucile’s Creole Cafe, a spot inspired by New Orleans flavors. Afterward, I took a drive to Golden Gate Canyon State Park for a morning hike. About 45 minutes from the city, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking mountain views. Breathing in the fresh air and taking in the scenery was the perfect way to start my day.
In the afternoon, I visited the Colorado State Capitol. With its golden dome, it’s an iconic building in Denver, and the 13th step is exactly one mile above sea level—a prime photo spot! I capped off my day with dinner at El Five, a rooftop restaurant in LoHi (Lower Highlands) with stunning city views and Mediterranean-inspired tapas. Watching the sunset over Denver’s skyline was the ideal way to bid the city farewell.
Breakfast at Lucile’s Creole Cafe offered delicious Creole flavors, making for a lively start with dishes like beignets and shrimp and grits. Lunch at City O’ City back in Denver brought creative vegetarian options in a relaxed setting, showcasing Denver’s culinary diversity. Dinner at El Five was a grand finale, with incredible tapas and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Food
For my last night, I stayed at Kimpton Hotel Born near Union Station, known for its sophisticated decor and mountain-lodge ambiance. The room was spacious, with luxe touches, and the hotel’s service was attentive, making my final night extra special.
Accomodation
Hiking in Golden Gate Canyon State Park was an ideal way to take in Colorado’s natural beauty, with serene trails and mountain vistas. Visiting the Colorado State Capitol afterward added a historic perspective, and the mile-high marker on the steps was a fun touch. Ending with views from El Five created a perfect balance of nature and urban excitement.
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Denver is perfect for those who crave a blend of adventure and city life. This city offers unforgettable experiences, from nature to nightlife, making it a fantastic destination for all types of travelers.
Summary of My Trip
Denver completely exceeded my expectations with its unique blend of vibrant city life and rugged natural beauty. The Mile-High City offers endless adventure right at the doorstep of the Rockies, and the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor experiences at places like Red Rocks and Golden Gate Canyon left me mesmerized. Denver’s art and culture scene is equally captivating; the vibrant murals in RiNo and the fascinating exhibits at the Denver Art Museum added a rich, colorful layer to my visit. Food was a pleasant surprise, too, with each meal—a hearty breakfast at Snooze, flavorful fare at Comal, and incredible tapas at El Five—capturing the spirit of Denver. Everywhere I went, the city’s craft beer culture was on display, from local breweries in Golden to unique beer halls in RiNo, making evenings just as thrilling as the days.
Each accommodation, from The Crawford Hotel to Origin Red Rocks, brought out Denver’s character, providing comfort and style that made the trip feel even more special. Overall, Denver has something for every type of traveler, seamlessly combining the thrill of the mountains with the energy of a lively city. It’s an adventure packed with history, creativity, and natural splendor that leaves a lasting impression. For anyone seeking a destination where excitement and tranquility coexist, Denver is truly unforgettable—this city has a remarkable way of both welcoming and inspiring everyone who visits.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Denver left a lasting impression on me as a city where urban excitement and natural beauty coexist harmoniously. From the cultural richness of its neighborhoods to the expansive outdoor adventures right next door, Denver offers a unique blend for every traveler. Here, creativity and a love for the outdoors are palpable, making it a city that feels both grounded and adventurous, with something intriguing around every corner.
Breakfast at Pigtrain Coffee in Union Station was the perfect start, offering a quality latte and fresh pastries. For lunch, I stopped at Mercantile Dining & Provision, where I enjoyed a locally sourced meal with fresh flavors and attention to detail. Dinner at The Kitchen American Bistro was memorable, with innovative takes on classic dishes, especially their roasted chicken.
Food
I stayed at The Crawford Hotel, which is conveniently located within Union Station itself. The rooms are modern yet retain a historic charm that feels quintessentially Denver. The hotel’s proximity to downtown and LoDo’s attractions made exploring easy and enjoyable.
Accomodation
Exploring Union Station and LoDo offered a great start to the trip, blending history and culture with trendy shops and local events. Walking through Larimer Square was a highlight, with beautiful architecture and vibrant boutiques. Denver Art Museum capped the day with inspiring exhibitions of Western and Native American art.
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