Published February 18, 2024
8 min read
From dense forests and desert plains to dramatic canyons and snow-capped mountains — the west-central US state of Colorado is a wellspring of wild and wonderful landscapes. The eighth largest of the states when it comes to square mileage, Colorado’s vastly varied topography has seen it become a magnet for travellers seeking the best of the great outdoors. And as a base for adventure, it doesn’t get much better than the state’s sunny capital, Denver, a destination that seems made for nature-lovers and active travellers. Here you can join the locals out cycling the city’s trails, jogging across its plentiful green spaces or even kayaking down the rapids that run right through the centre of the city. But Denver is not just a jumping off point for outdoor adventure. Head deep into its streets and you’ll discover an urban destination that’s a hub of ever-evolving cuisine, arts and entertainment.
Start your visit by joining local Denverites cheering on one of the city’s five major professional sports teams — there are options to watch baseball, basketball, American football, soccer and lacrosse — or settling in for a coffee in Denver’s ‘lounge room’. This is the affectionate local label for the magnificently renovated beaux-arts Denver Union Station, which is now home to patio-set restaurants, bars, boutiques and, a family favourite, the Milkbox Ice Creamery. In fact, you could plan a whole stay at Denver Union, as upstairs you’ll find the Crawford Hotel. The stylish, high-ceilinged guest rooms, once offices for the bustling train service, now offer a luxurious base from which to explore the city.
Step outside the station and it’s a short walk to some of the best restaurants in town. But before taking a table, be sure to stop by Rockmount Ranch Wear on your way. This characterful clothing store is the home of the first snap button cowboy shirt, a style that’s been worn by plenty of stars so famous you know them by their first names: Elvis, Elton, Chuck, Willie and even John, Paul, George and Ringo.
Around the corner, you’ll find culinary delights aplenty in historic Larimer Square, a destination easily identified by the sparkling lights hung across the pedestrianised area year-round. Here, a series of picturesque Victorian buildings have been transformed into boutique shops, cosy wine bars and creative chef-owned restaurants. Start at Bao Brewhouse for a tea-based cocktail — such as the Sakura sunrise with Ku Cha Sakura cherry tea, Campari, rum and pineapple accompanied by delicate dim sum sharing plates. Then wander over to nearby Osteria Marco for its famously creamy homemade burrata and extensive menu of Italian classics. Weekend visitors should also head here on a Sunday for the fabulous drag bingo brunch.
A food-focused exploration of Denver doesn’t end here, though. Every corner of this vibrant city is abuzz with culinary expression,