Without a doubt, the COVID 19 pandemic has changed just about everything about life as we know it. Not only are kids learning virtually, but most of our shopping is also happening online, and more people than ever are working remotely. Family vacations or yearly trips out of the country have, therefore, come to a screeching halt. For some, that means dreams of holidays in the Caribbean or skiing in the Swiss Alps must remain dreams until we have better control of the pandemic.
However, you don’t have to sacrifice all your vacation plans because of the pandemic. If you are a nature buff, love good food, like to dip into dispensaries, and are drawn to beautiful beaches, Denver, Colorado is the place to go. If you like to marvel at fantastic scenery, have an affinity for museums and culture, or want to experience air high above sea level, Denver is the place to vacation. Honestly, Denver offers something for everyone, and tourism continues to boom safely during the pandemic.
Denver is the capital city of the state of Colorado. It has an estimated population of a little over 727 thousand and is the 19th most populated city in the United States. Denver is named after James W. Denver, a former governor of Kansas Territory, and got the nickname Mile-High because it is precisely one mile over sea level.
Of course, Denver has impressive mountains making it a perfect destination for skiing. There are mountains for different skiers and excellent resorts, lodges, and other places to stay.
Denver also has numerous sandy beaches for the water lovers in the family. These sandy beaches aren’t just for swimming; many are great for fishing, sailing, and camping.
Some fun facts about Denver are:
- Denver has seven professional sports teams.
- The first permanent structure in Denver was a saloon.
- Denver is precisely a mile high – over sea level.
- Denver brews more beer daily than any other city in the nation.
- Denver has the 10th largest downtown area of all 50 states.
- Denver has 300 days of sunshine a year.
- The capitol building dome is made with real 24K gold.
- Denver is called the “Baby Boomer Capital of America.”
- Denver was rated as the healthiest city in the country for pets by Purina.
- Denver has the most extensive city park system in the nation.
These fun facts aren’t the only reasons you’ll want to take your family to visit Denver. Again, something is a lot of excitement for everyone in your family in Denver, and some places are so stunning that you will kick yourself if you miss them. The top things you don’t want to miss when visiting Denver are:
1. Denver Union Station
It’s not a vacation without visiting the food, shopping, and transportation hub of the city. Denver Union Station is a 100-year-old landmark that has everything, including entertainment. Full of unique restaurants and shopping boutiques, and even a hotel, Denver Union Station is a draw for locals and tourists. Denver Union Station was originally built in 1881 but rebuilt because of fire in 1914.
2. Denver Beer Trail
You don’t have to be a beer drinker to enjoy an afternoon sampling craft beer on a self-guided tour that features local breweries. For those not drawn to the brew, the food and culture draw in you and the kiddies. The Denver Beer Trail offers over 100 different brews from 20 breweries makes this trial fun, creative, and a festive way to create memories.
3. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
This attraction is a one-of-a-kind outdoor concert venue with ancient rock formations all around its perimeter and is among the best in the world. As its name implies, the rocks are red. The city purchased the park in 1928 and have used it for concerts and events since. The stairs make it the perfect place to work out, which locals do in addition to yoga and calisthenics. If you don’t want to go to a concert, tours of the Red Rocks Parks and Amphitheater are available most mornings.
4. Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum, also called DAM, is in the Civic Center of Denver, Colorado. Known for its size and a great collection of American Indian art, the museum has nine curators and over 70,000 diverse art pieces worldwide. The building has a unique architectural design that will remind a view of peaks and shards designed by Polish American architect Daniel Libeskind who also created the Imperial War Museum North. The DAM is free the first Saturday every month. Denver has several other great museums like the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave and Colorado Railroad Museum for the culture cravers in your family.
5. Larimar Square
Larimar Square was once Denver’s most historic block lined with Victorian homes converted into restaurants, chic shopping locations, and hot nightlife. There is always something happening in Larimar Square with magical nightlife worthy of staying up late.
6. Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
This beautiful park is in downtown Denver and is a prominent combination theme and water park. It opens from May through October, and visitors have many reasons to enjoy this park. It offers everything from cool water rides on hot days, 15 kiddie attractions, dive-in movies, and many other thrills. Getting into the park is easy since it is accessible by foot or car and has its light rail station.
7. Cherry Grove Shopping District
Not only is this a perfect shopping area for women, but men will also enjoy this area as well since it has premier stores for the entire family. The neighborhood has over 500 department stores, galleries, boutiques, spas, cafes, and several one-of-a-kind shops. Cherry Grove Shopping District is 16 blocks of charm, fun, and relaxation.
8. Denver Botanic Gardens
This beautiful garden is a 23-acre park with a conservatory, a sunken amphitheater that hosts concerts, and a variety of themed gardens. Located in the Cheesman Park neighborhood, this park celebrates every occasion and has a full calendar. In the coming weeks, the Blossoms of Lights will present a razzle-dazzle light display that is sure to light up the gardens.
If you’re planning on visiting the city soon, make sure to take advantage of a local limo service in Denver! You’ll be able to see the city in style and comfort, and it’s a great way to make your trip even more special. With a professional driver, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your time in Denver, knowing that you’re in good hands. Also, if your family wants a day trip out of Denver, covered parking at DIA airport makes that painstakingly easy and convenient.
Again, Denver has something exciting for everyone. Do not grow weary or stuck because of the pandemic and out of country travel restrictions. Denver has everything that an exotic vacation can offer and will undoubtedly provide unlimited memories at the top things you don’t want to miss when visiting Denver. Also, the covered parking at DIA airport makes taking a short hop day trip a breeze.
