Ah…Colorado. Tourism and population are growing rapidly in the city of the state that recently legalized the recreational use of marijuana. Of course, people have been coming to Denver, Colorado for quite a while before that. That breathtaking landscapes among the Colorado Rockies and the Fourteeners have attracted outdoor lovers and those looking for a slower pace of life than what’s typically found in the coastal cities like L.A. or Manhattan.
I had been to Denver a few years back but didn’t really get the chance to explore the city well. I remembered a pizza place we had eaten called “The Mellow Mushroom” and a walking street that looked like it was right out of a European city. This, plus the view of the mountains from pretty much anywhere in the city, amazed me. I had always been eager to return and when I did, I made sure to do Denver right.
If you do a tour of the United States, don’t skip over this remarkable city. Denver is close to tons of national parks. While there are great things to see in those states, don’t miss all the excitement that will keep you enjoying Denver; the city that after lots of international travel, made me fall in love with America all over again.
Know the City
Denver is hard to explain, especially if you’re from cities like New York, Miami, or Chicago. Though, if you’ve ever been to Philadelphia, you might feel like it’s familiar. The thing about Denver is that a big area of land is considered the “Denver Metropolitan Area.” It’s like towns within a city. You’ll have the big apartment buildings and skyscrapers, and a few blocks down, you’ll have a regular suburban town with sidewalks, houses, and green yards. It’s a pretty bizarre thing to see but part of what makes Denver so unique.
You’ll also find that the people here are super friendly. A friend told me that apparently, many Denver residents are all from other parts of the United States. Thus, they are referred to as “Transplants.” Most people were new to the city and looking to meet others that were in a similar situation.
Also according to my friend, the Denver natives are, on the other hand, referred to as “unicorns,” since they ‘don’t exist.’
Walk, Walk, Walk
Though there’s a light rail tram that runs through Denver and the outskirts of the city, my opinion is that the best way to see it is by walking. Sure, you can’t really walk the whole city. And, if you’re sensitive to changes in elevation or strong sunlight, you might have a hard time walking much at all. But, if you can manage it, check out a few key places:
- RINO: This is the art district along the river. It’s filled with cool open places like The Denver Central Market and The Source, where you can grab food, a local brew, and people watch.
- 16th Street Mall: Probably one of the most touristy places in Denver, but for a good reason. Check out Skyline Park, which usually has free events (see below):
- South Broadway: Known as ‘The Green Mile’ here is where a lot of Denver’s dispensaries can be found.
- The Highlands: An upper-class area with tons of bars, restaurants, and little shops.
Drink Delicious Beers
Denver is known for their local beers. Breweries can be found all over Denver and much of the rest of the state. To experience it to the fullest, join a tour that will take you to do tastings and tours of the breweries. It’s cool to also hear the stories of the people who started these breweries.
“When in Rome”
The Mile High City is no doubt the perfect place to “get high” as that’s kind of what they are known for here. Travelers can, of course, do what they please, as it’s completely legal and regulated here. If smoking isn’t for you, you can also buy lollipops, brownies, gummies, and all sorts of things. Again, not that any of these behaviors should be encouraged. But, if you decide to give it a try, make sure you don’t do it out in public; that’s still illegal.
Events and Free Activities
You’ll never get bored in Denver with so many events and free activities to choose from. See a Rockies game at Coors Field or a Broncos game at the Sports Authority Field. See a free movie on Santa Fe St., and explore the museums or the zoo. Check out the Pride Parade or Oktoberfest, depending on when you’re there. Whatever you do, don’t miss a visit to Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Whether you’re there for a show or to hike the trails, it’s a beautiful sight to see.
Explore Outside the City
Denver is gorgeous on its own, but if you want to see more, drive through the roads of Colorado. Check into the different western America tours to see what options are out there. And, remember that Colorado is a very outdoorsy state, with mountains to ski and rocks to climb just a few miles out in any direction.
On your tour of the United States, make sure you get at least 72 hours in Denver! Check out some options here! or check out below.
Hana LaRock is originally from New York, though has called other places around the world her home for the last two years. She currently lives in South Korea as an English teacher and freelance travel writer. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing, reading, spending time with her dog, and of course, traveling. You can find her at www.hanalarockwriting.com.
