Travel article: Some Great Stops in Denver

The Mile High City. Although Denver literally resides a mile above sea level, the city is notorious for its unmatched mountain ranges which reach across the skyline in every direction. The city has its own unique feel which is a marriage between the great outdoors and the contemporary culture that the city has produced over the years. Although it started as a gold town, Denver continues to be a great place to live and visit with its broad range of things to do. If you ever find yourself there, here’s a few things to be sure to check out in Denver.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The top of the list has to be the Rocky Mountain National Park. Colorado is notorious for its rugged landscape and not visiting the mountains in some capacity would be a real shame. With over 415 square miles, peaks of 12,000 feet, and trails that go for 300 miles, the Rocky Mountain National Park stands head and shoulders above other natural preserves. If you pack your car with enough supplies, you can arrange a camping spot and immerse yourself in the national park. Be prepared, a truck or SUV might be better suited if you are looking to really enter the wilderness.

Denver Botanic Gardens

If you’re looking for something closer to the city, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a great place to get a fix of nature without venturing into the wilderness. Focusing on the foliage of the area, the botanic garden is great for all ages and for a small fee can be explored or utilized as a learning opportunity. It’s kind of a “Rocky Mountain” light doesn’t require as long of a drive. It’s all the nature and foliage of the true wilderness but in a little more contained form.

Denver Union Station

Beginning to venture more into the city, you’ll find lots of great opportunities that aren’t massive mountains or leafy trees. The Denver Union Station is a stop that, although it serves its purpose as the central transportation hub in Denver, also has historic appeal. The architecture of the building carries a certain “turn of the century” feel that brings travelers back to a more industrial time. The various dining experiences, shops, and even fresh produce make the storied Denver Union Station a great place to visit.

Denver Art Museum

For those who have an appreciation for man-made art, the Denver Art Museum is the place to explore. With different exhibitions ranging from furniture to paintings, the museum has something for everyone. Located in the Civic Center of Denver, it is the largest museum between the West coast and Chicago. It is best known for its collections of Native American Art and features around 70,000 individual pieces from around the world. The museum began in the late 1800’s as an art club and over the years it has established itself as a great place to visit for some contemporary and historic art.

Molly Brown House Museum

One of the more obscure things to do in the city is the Molly Brown House. Although not a household name, Molly Brown was a philanthropist and activist who called Denver home. She was also aboard the Titanic when it sunk but she survived and is colloquially known as “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”. Her house became a landmark for those who wanted to preserve the “Victorian Denver” and her house remains a staple of this movement. Located in Capitol Hill, you can still see the historic home and get a tour if you choose to do so.

Denver prides itself in being a blend of the old and new. Whether you’re a fan of nature, a simpler time in the mountainous Southwest, or influential artwork, Denver has something for you. Be on the lookout for these things to do and do some research of your own of things that might interest you!