Denver

Colorado's capital and largest city, situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains with a vibrant downtown, excellent museums, and craft beer culture. It serves as the primary gateway to the Rockies and offers urban amenities combined with easy access to mountain adventures.

Things to do

• Denver Art Museum — Explore one of the largest art museums in the United States with collections spanning Native American art, contemporary works, and Western heritage.
• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre — Visit this stunning natural amphitheatre carved from red sandstone formations, offering hiking trails and world-class live music venues.
• 16th Street Mall — Stroll through Denver's pedestrian shopping district featuring retail stores, restaurants, and street performers in the heart of downtown.
• Denver Museum of Nature and Science — Discover extensive exhibits on Colorado wildlife, dinosaurs, space exploration, and Egyptian mummies in this comprehensive natural history museum.
• South Platte River Greenway — Bike or walk along this 85-mile network of trails following the South Platte River through Denver's parks and neighborhoods.
• Colorado State Capitol Building — Tour the historic 1894 capitol building featuring a dome with a 24-karat gold leaf exterior and panoramic city views from the rotunda.
• Union Station — Admire this beautifully restored 1914 Beaux-Arts landmark that now serves as a transit hub with shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Food to try

• Rocky Mountain Oysters — A Colorado delicacy of breaded and deep-fried bull testicles, typically served with cocktail sauce and found at local steakhouses and rustic eateries.
• Green Chili — Denver's signature comfort food featuring roasted Hatch or poblano peppers simmered with pork or beef, served over eggs, burritos, or as a stew.
• Denver Omelette — A classic three-egg omelette stuffed with ham, bell peppers, and onions, originating from Denver diners and served throughout the city.
• Craft Beer Scene — Sample innovative beers from Denver's 150+ breweries, from light lagers to bold IPAs, with neighborhoods like RiNo and South Broadway featuring numerous tasting rooms.
• Bison Burgers — Lean and flavorful locally-sourced bison meat served as burgers at upscale restaurants and casual eateries celebrating Colorado's ranching heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Elevation and Hydration — Denver sits at 5,280 feet (the Mile High City), so drink extra water and allow time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness.
• Outdoor Recreation Priority — Locals prioritize hiking, biking, and mountain activities year-round, so plan to embrace outdoor activities rather than staying indoors.
• Craft Beer Culture — Denver's identity is closely tied to its brewing scene; visiting local breweries is a primary social activity and a authentic way to experience the community.
• Sunny Days Year-Round — Denver averages over 300 days of sunshine annually, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses even in winter, as sun reflects off snow and high elevation intensifies UV exposure.