Denver: The Mile High City

Denver, Colorado has steadily developed into a cultural and entertainment mecca. The Rocky Mountains play host to some of the biggest names in the music industry, as well as a diverse offering of theater and the performing arts. Home of the 2001 Stanley Cup Champion Colorado Avalanche, the Denver Broncos, the Denver Nuggets, the Colorado Rapids, and the Colorado Rockies, there's never a dull moment when in search of big city entertainment.

the weather and the people

I was recently sitting on my 9th story patio reading my latest copy of INsite Denver magazine, in awe of the weather. It was 72 degrees and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Right then, I knew why I lived here. With over 300 days of sun per year, it's incredibly mild all year long. Then within a few hours it was in the teens and snowing. There's a popular saying in Colorado: "If you don't like the weather, wait an hour."

Denver also has cultural diversity that is quite refreshing. There is something for everyone and the celebration of life shines through all year long. Denver is full of young professionals that enjoy the most vivacious city in the West, where the economy is booming, business is great and the nightlife rocks.

Find out what singles, couples and local celebrities are doing for the perfect night out in Denver. Only here will you get the scoop on what's new, what's hot and what's to come... to this small city with a big heart.

dining out denver style

There are countless world-class restaurants and chefs that literally, and figuratively, pepper the Denver area. You can find anything from the trendiest sushi bars to the finest Italian cuisine, and everything in between. The dizzying array of restaurants far surpasses simple eating establishments. They're places to experience, enjoy, see, and be seen.

Cuba de Cuba

An authentic Cuban restaurant in the heart of the Golden Triangle, the food is excellent and the creative setting provides a unique eating experience. Even more important is the owner, who welcomes you into his establishment with open arms and treats customers like his own personal guests.

Tamayo

This restaurant offers a menu with a modern twist to authentic Mexican food. Critically acclaimed chef/owner Richard Sandoval prepares some of the most unique, memorable and exotic dishes in Lodo. Tamayo also offers an incredible terrace for alfresco dining with a beautiful view of downtown and the mountains.

Hapa Restaurant, ©AllAboutDenver.com

Hapa
This trendy hot spot is located in the heart of Cherry Creek North and its menu is loaded with great options. Hapa has a sleek, stylish atmosphere, with a sexy clientele to boot. Whether sitting at the sushi bar or at one of their tables, you will surely want to come back for more.

Insider tip: Try any one of Chef Kevin Taylor's extraordinary restaurants, you won't be disappointed. Kevin is a genius in the restaurant business. He has opened many successful restaurants in Denver including Nicois, Jou Jou, Palettes & Restaurant Kevin Taylor, all of which require reservations.

Other restaurants of note are Sacre Bleu, Vesta Dipping Grill, Roy's Cherry Creek, Campo de Fiori and Yia Yia's.

the nightlife

Hip, stylish, trendy, posh. Whatever you call it, Denver has it all. Everything from listening to a great local band, wonderful jazz, hanging out at a glossy martini bar, going dancing, or going to a chic party, you'll find it all here.

Funky Buddha
Regis, the owner of some of the hottest clubs in Denver, has done it again. Denver's newest and most en vogue lounge has an LA feel without all the pretentious clientele. Great DJs pump out high-energy mixes of hip-hop, salsa and techno. Add to that great martinis and excellent tapas-style food, and you have yourself a well spent evening.

Alley Cat
Exclusive & hip, you must dress to impress. There are four kinds of people that frequent Denver's hottest dance club: affluent, powerful, famous, and sexy. Its location is key, positioned near the Diamond Cabaret, the city's most upscale gentleman's club.

Josephina's
An American pub located in the heart of Larimer Square, Josephina's offers an amazing array of nightly live music featuring some of Denver's best local talent. They have the best little patio for people watching and a great dining experience. Their chicken parmesan is the best in town.

Kevin Larson Presents
This production company has emerged as the leader in hosting unique "Events That Encourage Interaction." KLP puts on everything from black tie fundraisers to sensual and fun "pajama" parties. One thing's for certain; KLP is famous for having the most beautiful, hip and stylish crowds.

Other hot spots of note: Blue 67, Citrus, Washington Park Grille, Fado Irish Pub, Sevilla at the Ice House.

whatever you do...

Red Rock Amphitheater, ©AllAboutDenver.com
Don't miss a concert at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater. Red Rocks is a natural wonder with rocks rising up 400 feet on either side of the venue. Located in Morrison, just 15 minutes from downtown, this is by far the most beautiful natural concert venue in the world.

You can enjoy the view of downtown city lights under the open sky of Red Rocks as you experience some of the greatest artists from around the world. Perhaps it is best known as a staple for some concert classics: U2's Under a Blood Red Sky, the Beatles in '63 and the annual Blues Traveler concerts every year on the 4th of July. It's been rocking for over 60 years and seems to make every band sound that much better.

At a recent James Taylor concert, all my friends watched him jam on stage under a star-filled sky and with the city lights glowing behind him. It was the experience of a lifetime.

great vacations

Some of the nation's best vacationing spots are just an hour or two away. The picturesque villages of Aspen, Steamboat, Breckenridge, and Vail are as happening as anywhere. These extraordinary mountain towns are close enough to spend the day or longer if you like. No matter the time of year, these resort towns are loads of fun.

There's no better skiing than here in Colorado. We ski from October through the 4th of July weekend. From the massive Blue Sky Basin Bowl of Vail to the "beach" at A-Basin, the skiing is simply amazing.

Insider tip: If you're moving to Colorado and enjoy skiing or boarding, purchase the five-mountain "Colorado Pass." You can ski five of Colorado's biggest mountains -- Vail, Breckenridge, Keystone, A-Basin, and Beaver Creek -- for one low price all season long.

more outdoor activities

Colorado is best known for its magnificent winter sports, like skiing and snowboarding, but outdoor enthusiasts know that all four-seasons are filled with world-class activities. Whether you're interested in competing or are just an enthusiast, Denver has something for everyone. Take your pick of mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, white water rafting, kayaking, water skiing, hang gliding, sport fishing, hunting, camping, 4x4 trails, or the nation's best paved trails for biking, running or blading.

You can do it all in the Mile High City. My favorite is skiing at the Vail Resort in 10 inches of fresh powder, or jogging down the Cherry Creek Trail on a beautiful 60-degree day. But don't take my word for it, try it out for yourself.

see you here

When you come to Denver, prepare to play hard in this city of fun. Whether you're into the hip nightlife or exhilarating Rocky Mountain hikes, you will find what you're looking for in The Mile High City. And if you want more information on Denver, check out AllAboutDenver.com.

*This article was brought to you in part by AllAboutDenver.com.

Resources:
Denver Travel Guide
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