Travel : Denver - Highlights of high altitude city of USA

 

Denver, the capital of Colorado, sits at the base of the stunning Rocky Mountains and is known as the "Mile-High City" due to its elevation of exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level. It’s a vibrant city that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with urban sophistication. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Denver offers endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty, as well as enjoying its growing food scene, art galleries, breweries, and a rich cultural heritage. The city is also known for its proximity to ski resorts and national parks, making it a perfect base for both urban explorers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Spots to Visit in Denver

1. Denver Botanic Gardens

Description: One of the largest botanical gardens in the United States, the Denver Botanic Gardens spans 24 acres and features a wide variety of native and exotic plants. It includes themed gardens, a conservatory, and a beautiful outdoor amphitheater where concerts are held in the summer.

Highlight: The Japanese Garden and the Rock Alpine Garden, showcasing the plants of Colorado’s mountainous terrain.

2. Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Description: Located just outside Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an iconic open-air venue surrounded by stunning red sandstone formations. It is famous for hosting legendary concerts, but also offers hiking trails with incredible views of the rock formations and the city skyline.

Highlight: Catch a live concert or enjoy early morning yoga sessions in one of the most unique venues in the world.

3. Denver Art Museum

Description: This expansive museum is known for its impressive collection of Native American art and contemporary exhibitions. Its striking architecture, designed by Daniel Libeskind, makes it a landmark in downtown Denver.

Highlight: Explore the Western American art galleries and rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historical works from around the globe.

4. Union Station

Description: A restored 100-year-old train station, Union Station has been transformed into a vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and transportation. The station’s interior boasts a blend of historic charm and modern design, with restaurants, cafes, and bars lining the grand hall.

Highlight: Grab a coffee or a drink at The Terminal Bar or browse the local shops. Union Station is also a central point for exploring the city via public transportation.

5. Larimer Square

Description: Denver’s oldest and most historic block, Larimer Square is a lively area known for its boutique shops, fine dining, and nightlife. The historic buildings are beautifully preserved, giving the area a quaint, old-town feel.

Highlight: Visit during the evening when the square is lit by string lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for a night out.

6. Coors Field

Description: Home to the Colorado Rockies, this baseball stadium is located in the heart of Denver. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, attending a game at Coors Field is a quintessential Denver experience.

Highlight: The stadium offers beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, especially during sunset games. You can also take a stadium tour if there are no games scheduled.

7. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Description: About an hour from downtown Denver, this is the highest paved road in North America, reaching over 14,000 feet. The drive to the summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, alpine lakes, and wildlife like bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

Highlight: Visit in the summer and fall when the road is open, and make sure to stop at Echo Lake along the way.

8. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Description: A must-visit for families and science enthusiasts, this museum offers exhibits on everything from dinosaurs and outer space to gems and minerals. It also features an IMAX theater and a planetarium.

Highlight: The Discovery Zone for children and the impressive Prehistoric Journey exhibit, showcasing life-size dinosaur skeletons.

Best Seasons to Visit Denver

1. Spring (March to May):

Weather: Mild with occasional snow, ranging from 5°C to 20°C (40°F to 68°F).

Highlights: Spring is the best time to explore the city’s parks and gardens, as flowers start to bloom. It’s also a great season for hiking as snow melts from the lower mountain trails.

2. Summer (June to August):

Weather: Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

Highlights: Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and attending concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Festivals such as the Denver Summer Brew Fest and Cherry Creek Arts Festival are also major attractions.

3. Autumn (September to November):

Weather: Crisp and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).

Highlights: Fall foliage in the surrounding mountains is breathtaking, and it’s a great time for scenic drives along roads like the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Denver’s craft beer scene also comes alive with the Great American Beer Festival in October.

4. Winter (December to February):

Weather: Cold with possible snow, temperatures between -5°C and 10°C (23°F to 50°F).

Highlights: Denver is a gateway to world-class ski resorts like Breckenridge and Vail, making it a top winter destination for skiing and snowboarding. Winter also brings festive markets and events, such as the Denver Christkindl Market.

Best Cuisines in Denver

1. Rocky Mountain Oysters

Description: A Colorado specialty, these "oysters" are actually deep-fried bull testicles, a delicacy often served as an appetizer in local taverns.

Where to Try: The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver’s oldest restaurant, serves this unique dish along with other wild game meats.

2. Green Chile

Description: Denver is known for its green chile, a spicy stew made from roasted green peppers, pork, and other ingredients. It’s often served over burritos or fries.

Where to Try: Sam’s No. 3 is a popular diner where you can get a green chile smothered burrito or burger.

3. Bison Burger

Description: Bison is a lean, flavorful meat that’s commonly found on Denver menus. Bison burgers are a local favorite for their rich taste and health benefits compared to traditional beef.

Where to Try: The Cherry Cricket is famous for its customizable bison burgers.

4. Craft Beer

Description: Denver is often called the "Napa Valley of Beer" because of its thriving craft beer scene. The city is home to numerous breweries, offering everything from IPAs to stouts.

Where to Try: Great Divide Brewing Company and Denver Beer Co. are must-visit spots for beer lovers.

5. Cinnamon Rolls at The Denver Biscuit Co.

Description: Known for its large, fluffy cinnamon rolls and biscuit-based meals, The Denver Biscuit Co. is a popular breakfast and brunch spot.

Where to Try: Head to the Colfax Avenue location for a true Denver breakfast experience.

Airlines and Connectivity to Denver

1. Airlines and Airports:

Denver International Airport (DEN): Denver’s major airport is one of the busiest in the United States and serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights. Airlines like United Airlines, Southwest, Delta, and American Airlines operate frequent flights to major cities around the world, including London, Tokyo, and Frankfurt.

Access to Ski Resorts: Denver International Airport offers shuttles and bus services to Colorado’s top ski resorts like Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge.

2. Train Connectivity:

Amtrak: Denver’s Union Station is a major stop for Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of the most scenic train routes in the U.S., connecting Chicago to San Francisco.

Light Rail: Denver’s RTD Light Rail system connects the airport with downtown Denver and various suburbs, making it easy to travel around the city.

3. Bus Connectivity:

Denver is well-served by Greyhound and RTD buses, which connect the city to nearby towns and other parts of Colorado. The Bustang service also offers connections to mountain destinations like Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Vail.

4. Driving and Road Connectivity:

Denver’s location makes it a convenient hub for road trips. Interstate 70 (I-70) connects Denver to the mountains, making it the main route for visitors heading to ski resorts or national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park.

Conclusion

Denver is a dynamic city that offers a balance of urban culture and outdoor adventure. From exploring its historic landmarks and vibrant art scene to experiencing the thrill of the Rocky Mountains, there’s something for everyone in the Mile-High City. Whether you’re visiting in the sunny summer months or planning a winter ski trip, Denver’s diverse offerings ensure a memorable stay year-round.