Denver, Colorado, known as the “Mile-High City” due to its elevation of exactly one mile above sea level, is a vibrant urban center with a rich history and diverse cultural landscape. Denver is also a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures. The city boasts a dynamic food scene, with numerous craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and diverse dining options.
Established in 1858 during the Colorado Gold Rush, Denver rapidly grew from a mining town into a thriving metropolis. Today, it is celebrated for its picturesque mountain views, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a thriving arts and culinary scene.
The Same
The Family visited Denver as part of a cross- country road trip. While the Dinks did as well, they have visited many other times for work and visiting friends. Besides taking the the breathtaking views, and as always food, there wasn’t any overlap in what they did.
Local Cuisine
Denver, Colorado, boasts a diverse and vibrant food scene influenced by its Western heritage, outdoor lifestyle, and cultural diversity.
- Green Chile: A staple in Denver cuisine, green chile is a spicy stew made with pork, green chiles, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s often served over burritos, enchiladas, or as a standalone dish with warm tortillas.
- Rocky Mountain Oysters: Despite their name, Rocky Mountain oysters are not seafood but rather deep-fried bull testicles. A unique delicacy in the region, they are typically served breaded and fried, sometimes with a dipping sauce.
- Denver Omelette: This classic American omelette is named after the city and features diced ham, onions, and green bell peppers mixed with eggs and topped with cheese. It’s a hearty breakfast choice found on many diner menus.
- Bison Burgers: Bison, often referred to as buffalo, is a lean and flavorful alternative to beef. Bison burgers are popular in Denver and can be found at many restaurants and burger joints, often served with unique toppings.
- Game Meat: Due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers opportunities to enjoy game meats such as elk, venison, and quail. These meats are often served in upscale restaurants and provide a taste of Colorado’s natural bounty.
The DINKs
Seriously Denver has it all. We tend to try to avoid visiting in the winter because we dislike cold weather and aren’t into cold weather sports but summer time there is no better place to be. (Besides the beach, we will always choose the beach.)
Mt. Evans
On our very first visit we were overly eager to hike a famous 14er. So we headed up to Mt. Evans. As we embarked on our hike we passed a ranger who asked where we were from and how long we had been in Denver. We didn’t think much of the questioning until about 20 mins into our hike when we realized we could barely catch our breath. Coming from the south, the elevation change is no joke. Needless to say we did not reach the summit. Lesson learned, plan hiking trips once you have been in town for several days or better yet, just drive to the summit. (It was closed at the time since we visited after labor day.)
Heads up – They have prairie dogs. I don’t know why but they seem to love hardware stores and gas stations but once you spot them, you will see the everywhere.
Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, located just west of Denver in Morrison, Colorado, is a world-renowned natural amphitheater set amidst stunning red sandstone rock formations.
- This iconic venue has a rich history and is renowned for its natural acoustics, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The natural amphitheater at Red Rocks is carved into the towering rocks, creating a breathtaking backdrop for concerts and events.
- In addition to its legendary concerts, Red Rocks Park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities. The park features several hiking trails that wind through the rugged landscape, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Visitors can also explore the Visitor Center and the Red Rocks Trading Post, which offer insights into the park’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
Craft beer scene & Breweries
Denver’s vibrant craft beer scene, which boasts over 100 breweries and counting. From cozy brewpubs to sleek taprooms, I sampled a diverse array of local brews, each one showcasing the creativity and passion of Denver’s talented brewers. The Denver Beer Trail provided a handy guide to navigating the city’s craft beer scene, leading me to hidden gems and neighborhood favorites throughout the city.
- Denver Beer Co.: Known for its creative and diverse beer selection, Denver Beer Co. is a staple in the local beer scene.
- Great Divide Brewing Co.: Known for its bold and flavorful beers, Great Divide offers a range of year-round and seasonal brews.
- Green Mountain Beer Company: A small but notable brewery with a focus on quality and community.
- Left Hand Brewing Company: Famous for its Milk Stout Nitro, Left Hand offers a variety of well-crafted beers.
- Bierstadt Lagerhaus: Specializes in traditional German lagers, providing an authentic brewing experience.
- Prost Brewing: Another great place for German-style beers, Prost Brewing focuses on classic brewing methods and flavors.
It’s also worth a trip out to Golden, CO to tour the Coors Brewing Company. I am a sucker for good marketing and the tour is well put together. You learn insights into the brewing process and the history of the Coors brand. During these tours, visitors can explore the brewery’s facilities, learn about the ingredients used in beer production, and sample some of Coors’ signature brews. And they give you free beer at the end of your tour.
Restaurants/Bars
Denver is known for its eclectic and vibrant dining scene. Here are some of our favorites that stand out:
- Denver Biscuit Company: Famous for its massive, fluffy biscuits served with a variety of toppings. Must-try dishes include the “Franklin” (fried chicken, bacon, cheddar, and gravy) and the “Elmer” (smoked pork butt with BBQ sauce).
- Cherry Cricket: A beloved institution in Denver, known for its mouthwatering burgers. The casual atmosphere and customizable burger options make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
- Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs: A local favorite for gourmet hot dogs, Biker Jim’s serves up an array of inventive sausages with unique toppings and flavor combinations. It’s a must-visit for hot dog enthusiasts. We picked a few and split them so we could try some of the unique ones like Ostrich, Elk Jalepeno Cheddar, Wild Boar and Rattle Snake & Rabbit.
Sports
Denver boasts a vibrant sports scene, with teams competing in football, basketball, and baseball, each contributing to the city’s spirited athletic culture.
- Football: Empower Field at Mile High, formerly known as Mile High Stadium, is the heart of Denver Broncos football. This iconic venue is where fans gather to cheer on their team, experiencing the electric atmosphere of NFL games amidst stunning Rocky Mountain views. Tailgating before the game is almost as exciting as the game itself. (I said almost.)
- Basketball: The Ball Arena, a modern facility in the heart of Denver, hosts the Denver Nuggets’ basketball games. Here, the excitement of NBA action is matched by a vibrant crowd, making each game a high-energy experience.
- Baseball: Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies, offers an unforgettable baseball experience. Fans can enjoy America’s pastime while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. For the adventurous eater, trying Rocky Mountain Oysters at a Rockies game is a must.
The Family
Scenic Drive
We were on a cross country road trip and Denver is a great place to stop for the evening. We didn’t do much but enjoyed every bit of the scenic drive. Traveling through Denver’s outskirts, you’ll encounter charming towns and picturesque valleys framed by rugged cliffs and lush forests. Whether you’re cruising along mountain highways or meandering through scenic byways, the beauty of Colorado’s natural landscape never fails to impress. We definitely need to go back and spend more time.
Summary
In conclusion, whether you’re a passing visitor captivated by Denver’s scenic charm and adorable prairie dogs, or a seasoned explorer enchanted by its myriad offerings, the Mile High City leaves an indelible mark. For families, the scenic drive and wildlife encounters offer a memorable taste of Colorado’s natural beauty. Meanwhile, seasoned visitors like the DINKs find perennial joy in Denver’s vibrant outdoor experiences, from Red Rocks Park’s breathtaking hikes to the bustling craft beer scene. And for sports enthusiasts, the thrill of attending games adds another layer to Denver’s dynamic personality. Together, these experiences illustrate Denver’s multifaceted appeal, where nature, adventure, and community converge to create lasting memories for all who pass through this remarkable city.
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