The Denver Wanderer

Author: The Denver Wanderer

  • Holiday Magic in Denver: Your Guide to Festive Things To Do

    Holiday Magic in Denver: Your Guide to Festive Things To Do

    Denver absolutely sparkles during the holidays! Twinkling lights, cozy pop-ups, festive markets, snow-dusted streets, and a whole lineup of magical experiences. Whether you’re looking for photo worthy moments, family fun, or holiday date ideas, here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating the season in the Mile High City.

    1. Wander Through Denver’s Best Holiday Light Displays

    Blossoms of Light

    Held at the stunning Denver Botanic Gardens, Blossoms of Light transforms the entire garden into a glowing winter wonderland. Think immersive tunnels, sparkling trees, hot cocoa, and perfect IG-worthy shots.

    Zoo Lights

    The beloved Zoo Lights at Denver Zoo features moving light sculptures, themed areas, and festive treats. It’s one of the city’s most family-friendly holiday traditions.

    Downtown Denver’s Mile High Tree

    This giant, walk-through LED tree on the 16th Street Mall puts on a choreographed light and music show every night. Totally free and super magical.

    2. Shop + Sip at Denver’s Holiday Markets

    Denver Christkindlmarket

    A classic Bavarian-style market in Civic Center Park with handmade ornaments, mulled wine, bratwursts, and cozy wooden huts. It’s the perfect place to shop small and support local + international vendors.

    The Mile High Holiday Market

    Craft makers, local artisans, boutique gifts, food pop-ups, all under one roof. Great for finding unique stocking stuffers.

    Cherry Creek Holiday Market

    Located in Cherry Creek North, this one mixes upscale vendors, cocktails, live music, and festive outdoor lounging spaces.

    3. Visit Union Station for Decor + Drinks

    Denver Union Station goes all out for the holidays. The exterior lights up beautifully, while the inside becomes a cozy winter lounge. Grab a cocktail at the ornate Terminal Bar or enjoy a holiday pop-up concept each year. Don’t miss their tree-lighting ceremony if you’re in town early in the season.

    4. Ice Skate Under the Lights

    If you’re looking for something active and festive:

    • Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park – Free skating (bring your own skates or rent), surrounded by city lights.
    • McGregor Square Ice Rink – Cute and modern, perfect for a date night followed by drinks or dinner nearby.

    5. Enjoy a Holiday Show or Performance

    The Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker

    A Denver holiday classic — cozy, nostalgic, and beautifully performed at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House by the renowned performers of the Colorado Ballet.

    A Christmas Carol

    The Denver Center for the Performing Arts hosts this heartwarming and beautifully staged production every year.

    6. Sip Hot Drinks at Festive Pop-Up Bars

    Denver LOVES a themed cocktail moment. Favorites include:

    • Miracle Pop-Up Bar – Over-the-top Christmas decor + delicious holiday cocktails.
    • Sippin’ Santa – A tropical-meets-Christmas vibe for something fun and different.
    • Mistletoe Lounge at Halcyon – A classy, cozy holiday hangout in Cherry Creek.

    ❄️ 7. Get Outside for Snowy Fun

    If you want to mix the holidays with outdoor adventure:

    • Snowshoe at Echo Lake or Brainard Lake
    • Take a winter walk at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre (surprisingly magical when snow-covered)
    • Hit the slopes early season at nearby resorts like Arapahoe Basin Ski Area or Loveland Ski Area
  • Recapping the Magic of Outside Festival 2025 in Denver

    Recapping the Magic of Outside Festival 2025 in Denver

    The Outside Festival 2025, held May 31–June 1 in Civic Center Park, was a vibrant collision of outdoor adventure, live music, wellness, and forward-thinking conversation. With the majestic backdrop of the Colorado State Capitol and the energy of downtown Denver, this free event brought together thousands of outdoor lovers to celebrate everything Outside stands for — from climbing to conservation, bikes to beats.

    Music & Film: Soundscapes of the Wild

    The festival’s main stage pulsed with energy as artists like Khruangbin and Lord Huron delivered soulful, expansive sets that perfectly matched the open-air setting. Whether you were stretched out on a blanket or dancing under the stars, the vibe was relaxed and electric — a reminder of how live music can amplify the spirit of community and nature.

    Indie film buffs and adventure junkies alike found themselves drawn to the Film & Speaker Tent, where handpicked documentaries like Girl Climber and The Life We Have sparked emotional responses and inspiration. Post-screening panels with filmmakers and outdoor athletes added layers of insight that made the viewing experience feel intimate and thought-provoking.

    Ideas & Inspiration: Conversations That Matter

    The Ideas portion of the festival wasn’t just filler — it was transformative. From Alex Honnold’s reflections on risk and purpose to John John Florence’s musings on climate and surf, the speaker lineup delivered authenticity and depth. Attendees gathered under shaded tents, listening intently to stories of resilience, curiosity, and personal evolution.

    Panel discussions tackled some of the most pressing cultural topics in the outdoor space — including how to build emotional resilience in youth, what it means to foster belonging in wild spaces, and how masculinity is evolving in adventure sports. These weren’t just lectures; they were calls to action and connection.

    Adventure & Wellness: Try, Move, Recharge

    From the Climber’s Corner with hands-on demos to the interactive Bike Central showcasing the latest gear and group rides, the festival delivered on the promise of outdoor immersion. Attendees could hop on a gravel bike, chat with pro athletes, or take a stab at bouldering — all within the heartbeat of downtown Denver.

    On the more meditative side, the Wellness Zone hosted all-levels yoga sessions with CorePower Yoga, breathwork workshops, and mini sound baths. For many, this offered a welcome pause — a chance to stretch, reset, and reconnect with their bodies in the midst of the festival buzz.

    Sustainability & Community: Moving the Industry Forward

    One of the most impactful elements of the Outside Festival was its strong emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity. Through gear upcycling workshops, zero-waste initiatives, and educational booths on climate action, the event encouraged attendees to rethink their relationship with gear, consumption, and the outdoors.

    The Outside Summit, held alongside the main festival, featured changemakers and leaders in outdoor media, DEI, and environmental innovation. These conversations, while more industry-focused, made a big statement: the future of the outdoors must be equitable, sustainable, and inclusive — and that starts now.

    Brand Activations & Pop-Ups: Engaging Experiences

    The festival featured an impressive array of brand activations and interactive experiences:

    • The North Face: Hosted the “Climbers Corner,” featuring a colossal climbing wall where elite professionals competed, and attendees of all skill levels could try top-rope, bouldering, and adaptive climbing.
    • Adaptive Adventures: Provided an accessible climbing experience, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with physical disabilities.
    • Purina Pro Plan: Presented the “Incredible Dog Experience,” showcasing award-winning dog teams performing high-flying, agility-packed routines that delighted audiences.
    • High West Distillery: Brought their “Whiskey Train,” a mobile bar serving signature spirits and promoting their “Protect The West” initiative in partnership with snowboarder Shaun White.
    • REI Co-op: Highlighted emerging recreation brands led by diverse entrepreneurs through its Path Ahead Ventures program, emphasizing inclusivity in the outdoor industry.
    • Solo Stove: Featured their popular fire pits and pizza ovens, creating cozy gathering spots and demonstrating outdoor cooking solutions.
    • Columbia Sportswear: Sponsored the “Film x Ideas” series at the Denver Art Museum, integrating adventure films with insightful discussions.
    • Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Operated the “Curiosity Cruiser,” a mobile exhibit offering hands-on science activities for children.
    • SunBum, Liquid Death, Columbia, Fjällräven, Lyft: Set up engaging booths with product samples, interactive games, and giveaways, enhancing the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
    • SENIQ: Showcased fashion-forward women’s performance wear, blending technical functionality with trend-driven designs.

    Can’t wait for next year!

    https://festival.outsideonline.com/

  • Top 5 Highlights to Experience at the 2025 Outside Festival in Denver

    Top 5 Highlights to Experience at the 2025 Outside Festival in Denver

    The 2025 Outside Festival is set to return to Denver’s Civic Center Park on May 31 and June 1, promising a weekend filled with music, adventure, and community. With an expanded lineup and new features, here are the top five experiences attendees can look forward to:

    1. Headline Performances by Khruangbin and Lord Huron

    The festival’s main stage will feature electrifying performances by Khruangbin and Lord Huron. Khruangbin, known for their genre-blending sound, will showcase tracks from their latest album, A La Sala . Lord Huron brings their expansive, folk-rock melodies to the stage, offering a soundscape reminiscent of open roads and natural vistas. Also performing at the festival is Sylvan Esso, Trampled By Turtles, Neal Francis, and more.

    2. Adventure Film Screenings Curated by Mountainfilm

    In partnership with Mountainfilm, the festival will present a selection of compelling documentaries that celebrate adventure, activism, and the human spirit. Screenings will take place at the Denver Art Museum and the newly renovated Denver Public Library, providing attendees with inspiring stories that resonate with the festival’s outdoor ethos.

    3. Interactive Outdoor Activities and Wellness Sessions

    Beyond music and films, the festival offers a range of activities to engage attendees physically and mentally. From climbing experiences and yoga classes to gear demonstrations and workshops, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring fun for all ages.

    4. Inspiring Talks from Outdoor Industry Leaders

    The festival’s “Ideas” series will feature discussions with elite athletes, environmentalists, and innovators. Attendees can gain insights from figures like Caroline Brown, Global Brand President of The North Face, and Albert Lin, National Geographic explorer, among others.

    5. Commitment to Sustainability

    Emphasizing environmental responsibility, the Outside Festival implements measures to minimize its ecological footprint. Initiatives include waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable food sourcing. Attendees are encouraged to participate by bringing reusable water bottles and utilizing eco-friendly transportation options.

    For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official festival website: TheOutsideFestival.com .

  • The 5 Best Hikes Near Denver for Your Next Outdoor Escape

    The 5 Best Hikes Near Denver for Your Next Outdoor Escape

    Living near the mountains has its perks — and in Denver, one of the biggest is easy access to world-class hiking. Within an hour or less from downtown, you can find everything from alpine views and pine forests to waterfalls and dramatic rock formations.

    Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just want to stretch your legs and soak in some nature, here are five of the best hikes near Denver that deliver big rewards without a long drive.

    1. Mount Falcon Castle Trail – Morrison

    🥾 Distance: 3.7 miles (loop)

    ⏱ Drive Time from Denver: ~30 minutes

    A hike with history and views? Yes, please. The Castle Trail at Mount Falcon Park takes you through wide open meadows, shady pines, and past the ruins of a 1900s-era mansion built by entrepreneur John Brisben Walker. On clear days, you’ll catch sweeping views of Red Rocks Amphitheatre and downtown Denver in the distance.

    🌟 Why We Love It: Easy to moderate, dog-friendly, and full of Colorado character.

    2. St. Mary’s Glacier – Idaho Springs

    🥾 Distance: 1.9 miles (out & back)

    ⏱ Drive Time from Denver: ~1 hour

    This short but iconic hike leads to a beautiful glacier and alpine lake nestled in the mountains. It’s accessible year-round, and while it can be snowy or icy (bring spikes in colder months), the views are totally worth it. Once you reach the top, you can explore the glacier, hang by the lake, or just chill with a packed lunch.

    🌟 Why We Love It: Quick payoff, epic scenery, and a chance to play in the snow even in summer.

    3. Chautauqua Trail – Boulder

    🥾 Distance: 3.6 miles (loop)

    ⏱ Drive Time from Denver: ~45 minutes

    Located at the base of Boulder’s iconic Flatirons, Chautauqua Park offers a network of trails for all skill levels. The Chautauqua Trail itself is a moderate loop with plenty of vertical gain and jaw-dropping views of the massive rock formations. Start early to beat the crowds and the heat.

    🌟 Why We Love It: Classic Colorado views, flexible routes, and a great post-hike brunch scene nearby.

    4. Trading Post Trail – Red Rocks Park

    🥾 Distance: 1.4 miles (loop)

    ⏱ Drive Time from Denver: ~25 minutes

    This short loop weaves through the stunning red sandstone formations that make Red Rocks famous. It’s a great beginner hike or a perfect warm-up before catching a show at the amphitheatre. Expect wildlife, wildflowers, and some of the most photogenic terrain in the state.

    🌟 Why We Love It: Quick, beautiful, and right next to one of the most iconic venues in the world.

    5. Bear Peak via Fern Canyon – Boulder

    🥾 Distance: 5.7 miles (out & back)

    ⏱ Drive Time from Denver: ~45 minutes

    Ready for a challenge? This steep and scenic hike to Bear Peak is a local favorite for a reason. It’s a lung-buster, but the 360° views from the summit — including Denver, Boulder, and snow-capped peaks — are phenomenal. Come prepared with water, layers, and sturdy shoes.

    🌟 Why We Love It: A real workout with one of the best summit views near Denver.

  • The 5 Best Concert Venues in Denver for Live Music Lovers

    The 5 Best Concert Venues in Denver for Live Music Lovers

    Denver is one of the hottest cities in the U.S. for live music — and it’s not just because of the altitude. From intimate indie stages to world-famous amphitheaters, the Mile High City is packed with venues that deliver unforgettable concert experiences. Whether you’re into hip-hop, EDM, rock, or acoustic sets, there’s a spot in town that hits all the right notes.

    Here are five of the best concert venues in Denver that every music fan should check out.

    1. Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison (Just Outside Denver)

    🎶 Best For: Iconic performances in a natural setting

    Okay, technically it’s in Morrison, but it’s the Denver-area venue — and one of the most legendary in the world. Carved into ancient red sandstone, Red Rocks offers acoustics that are out of this world and views that’ll steal the show. Seeing your favorite artist here? Bucket-list stuff.

    🧭 Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO
    🌄 Vibe: Epic, spiritual, goosebumps guaranteed

    2. Mission Ballroom – RiNo Arts District

    🎶 Best For: High-energy shows with next-level production

    One of Denver’s newer venues, Mission Ballroom has quickly become a top choice for big-name acts and fans alike. With impeccable sound, a customizable stage, and a capacity of 3,950, it’s big enough for major artists but still feels intimate. Bonus: it’s in the heart of the RiNo district, surrounded by great bars and breweries.

    🧭 Location: 4242 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO
    🎧 Vibe: Modern, electric, perfectly engineered

    3. Ogden Theatre – Capitol Hill

    🎶 Best For: Indie bands, throwback acts, and a killer vibe

    The Ogden is a beautifully restored historic venue that brings serious charm. With a 1,600-person capacity, it’s the perfect mid-sized space to catch your favorite band up close. The sound is solid, the lighting is dramatic, and the crowd is always hyped.

    🧭 Location: 935 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO
    ✨ Vibe: Vintage glam meets indie energy

    4. Bluebird Theater – East Colfax

    🎶 Best For: Intimate gigs with soul

    A beloved neighborhood venue, the Bluebird Theater is a former movie house turned music mecca. With a capacity of around 500, you’ll feel like you’re part of something special every time. It’s a favorite for up-and-coming artists and local legends alike.

    🧭 Location: 3317 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO
    💡 Vibe: Cozy, nostalgic, music-first

    5. Fillmore Auditorium – Capitol Hill

    🎶 Best For: Big sound, big energy, big crowds

    The Fillmore is Denver’s largest indoor general admission venue, with a capacity of over 3,000. It hosts a wide range of acts, from electronic DJs to rock bands, and the open layout gives the crowd room to move. The chandeliers, arched windows, and vintage decor give it a unique twist.

    🧭 Location: 1510 Clarkson St, Denver, CO
    🎤 Vibe: Classic venue feel with serious scale

  • Epic vs. Ikon: Which Ski Pass Is Best for Your Winter Adventures? 🎿

    Epic vs. Ikon: Which Ski Pass Is Best for Your Winter Adventures? 🎿

    If you live in Denver (or anywhere near the Rockies), you know the question isn’t if you’re getting a ski pass — it’s which one. The Epic Pass and the Ikon Pass are the two heavy hitters in the ski world, and both give you access to world-class resorts, deep powder days, and endless après opportunities.

    But they’re not created equal. Whether you’re chasing steeps, looking for family-friendly runs, or planning a few destination trips this winter, knowing the difference between Epic and Ikon is key.

    Let’s break it down: Epic Pass vs. Ikon Pass — which one’s right for you?

    🏔️ Resort Access

    • Epic Pass:
      Epic is run by Vail Resorts and covers some of the most famous resorts in Colorado and beyond. Think Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Crested Butte. Plus, you get access to spots like Whistler Blackcomb (Canada), Park City (Utah), and even international resorts in Japan and Europe.

    Best for: If you love Vail or Breck, Epic delivers. Also great for East Coast skiers (Stowe, Okemo, etc.) and destination travelers.

    • Ikon Pass:
      Ikon is a collection of iconic destinations curated by Alterra Mountain Company and partners. In Colorado, you’ll have Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Steamboat, Eldora, and Aspen/Snowmass (with some limitations). Nationally, it includes favorites like Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Mammoth, and Palisades Tahoe.

    Best for: If you like variety and a mix of big-name resorts and hidden gems, Ikon shines. Also great for West Coast trips.

    Winner: Depends where you want to ride! Epic owns the Vail empire, Ikon is broader and often feels a bit more “adventure-seeker.”

    💰 Price Point

    • Epic Pass:
      Generally a bit more affordable than Ikon, especially if you buy early or opt for regional versions (like the Epic Local Pass). Vail Resorts often run early bird deals and payment plans.
    • Ikon Pass:
      Pricier upfront, but you can choose between the full Ikon Pass or the more limited Ikon Base Pass for savings. Keep an eye out for spring sales and renewal discounts.

    Winner: If you’re price-sensitive, Epic Pass tends to win here — but Ikon’s value is solid if you maximize travel days.

    🎿 Vibe & Crowd Factor

    • Epic Pass:
      With Vail Resorts’ scale comes crowds — especially on weekends and powder days at Breck or Keystone. Epic can feel a bit more corporate and polished, for better or worse.
    • Ikon Pass:
      Ikon resorts sometimes feel a little more “local” and laid-back, with a stronger indie vibe at places like Winter Park and Steamboat. Still, popular Ikon resorts get crowded too — think powder day at Jackson Hole.

    Winner: Slight edge to Ikon for variety and atmosphere, but Epic delivers polish and efficiency.

    🗺️ Travel Flexibility

    • Epic Pass:
      If you’re planning trips to Europe or Japan, Epic partners with several international resorts. And Whistler Blackcomb is a bucket-list mountain for a reason.
    • Ikon Pass:
      Ikon is fantastic for domestic U.S. trips and also has solid international options, like Niseko (Japan), Zermatt (Switzerland), and resorts in Australia and New Zealand.

    Winner: Ikon if you’re chasing powder across the U.S., Epic if you want international convenience and Whistler.

    🏅 Special Perks

    • Epic:
      • EpicMix app for tracking runs and lift lines
      • Discounts on lodging, food, and rentals at Vail Resorts properties
      • Buddy and Ski With a Friend tickets
    • Ikon:
      • Adventure Assurance for trip flexibility
      • Discounts on friends and family lift tickets
      • Tons of passholder-only events and early access days

    Winner: Toss-up. Epic is great for in-resort perks, Ikon is great for flexibility and fun extras.

  • 5 Dog-Friendly Bars in Denver Where You and Your Pup Can Hang Out 🐾

    5 Dog-Friendly Bars in Denver Where You and Your Pup Can Hang Out 🐾

    Let’s be honest — in Denver, dogs are basically VIPs. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or just running local errands, chances are your pup is tagging along. And when it comes to grabbing a drink, why leave your four-legged friend at home? Thankfully, Denver’s got plenty of bars that welcome both humans and their dogs with open arms (and treats).

    Here are 5 of the best dog-friendly bars in Denver — perfect for patio hangs, pup playdates, and golden-hour drinks with your furry sidekick.

    1. The Watering Bowl

    This place is basically a dog park disguised as a bar. Known as “the dog-friendliest bar in Denver,” The Watering Bowl has a giant off-leash backyard where pups can run wild while you sip a cold beer. They’ve got shaded seating, food trucks, and plenty of water bowls for the dogs (naturally). Think casual, relaxed vibes with tons of fellow dog lovers around.

    📍 East Virginia Village
    🐾 Off-leash yard, food trucks, and dog events!

    2. Recess Beer Garden

    Recess in LoHi is one of the most popular patio spots in the city, and they love their canine customers. The spacious outdoor area is super dog-friendly, with lots of room to chill out while you enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and comfort food. It’s perfect for sunny afternoons when you and your pup just want to soak it all in. Bonus: they usually have water bowls on standby, and the staff is always happy to say hi to your dog!

    📍 LoHi Neighborhood
    🐾 Large patio, casual eats, and good people-watching.

    3. The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill

    With a name like Lazy Dog, it’s no surprise this spot welcomes pups. Their Westminster location has a big dog-friendly patio where you can kick back with sports on the TVs, tasty bar food, and plenty of brews on tap. Bring your dog along for game day or a casual lunch — it’s laid-back and fun for everyone.

    📍 Westminster
    🐾 Dog-friendly patio and chill sports bar vibes.

    4. Forest Room 5

    This one is a hidden gem. Tucked away in LoHi, Forest Room 5 feels like a little mountain escape right in the city. The outdoor space is rustic and cozy, with fire pits, woodsy décor, and — you guessed it — a super dog-friendly patio. It’s a great spot for cool evenings, especially if you love a quirky, relaxed atmosphere. Dogs are more than welcome, and they’ll love lounging by the fire while you sip on something craft.

    📍 LoHi Neighborhood
    🐾 Rustic patio with fire pits and a cozy, dog-welcoming vibe.

    5. Denver Beer Co.

    No list is complete without DBC. This iconic brewery is not only home to some of the best craft beer in town, but it’s also proudly dog-friendly. Their huge outdoor patio is always full of pups lounging while their humans enjoy a flight or two. Plus, they host dog-friendly events throughout the year, like dog costume contests and “Yappy Hours.”

    📍 Platte Street, LoHi
    🐾 Spacious patio, dog events, and top-notch local brews.

  • The 5 Best Rooftop Bars in Denver for Killer Views & Good Vibes

    The 5 Best Rooftop Bars in Denver for Killer Views & Good Vibes

    There’s just something about sipping a cocktail while taking in the Denver skyline and those Front Range sunsets. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the Mile High City, rooftop bars are a must for soaking up the best of the city’s views and vibes. Lucky for us, Denver delivers.

    Here’s my go-to list of the top 5 rooftop bars in Denver — perfect for everything from happy hours to golden-hour dates.

    1. 54thirty Rooftop

    Let’s start with the highest rooftop bar in Denver — no, seriously, this one’s sitting pretty at 20 floors up. 54thirty is sleek, modern, and has unobstructed panoramic views that are hard to beat. Expect stylish cocktails (yes, they’re a little pricey, but worth it), fire pits for chilly evenings, and an energy that feels both upscale and laid-back. Hot tip: Get there early, especially in summer, because this place fills up fast.

    📍 Le Méridien Denver Downtown

    2. The Red Barber

    If you want a rooftop that feels like your best friend’s backyard party but with a way better view, The Red Barber is your spot. Located in the RiNo district, this funky rooftop has a massive green space, lawn games, fire pits, and tons of seating. The vibe is casual, the cocktails are creative, and the views stretch from downtown to the Rockies. Bonus: Live music nights and fun events keep it lively year-round.

    📍 Catbird Hotel, RiNo

    3. ViewHouse Ballpark

    A classic. ViewHouse is almost synonymous with rooftop day-drinking in Denver. It’s always buzzing, especially on game days since it’s right next to Coors Field. The rooftop overlooks the stadium and skyline, with TVs everywhere if you’re keeping an eye on the score. Expect a lively crowd, pub-style eats, and solid drink specials. It’s not the most “elevated” spot (pun intended), but it’s a Denver staple for good reason.

    📍 Ballpark Neighborhood

    4. Elevated Rooftop Bar

    This hidden gem at the Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek is a little more polished and perfect for a date night or chill evening with friends. Elevated offers plush lounge seating, a sophisticated menu of small plates and craft cocktails, and gorgeous views over the tree-lined streets of Cherry Creek with a Rocky Mountain backdrop. It feels a little like an escape from the bustle of downtown, and we’re not mad about it.

    📍 Halcyon Hotel, Cherry Creek

    5. El Five

    If you want a rooftop with serious “wow” factor, El Five is it. Perched above LoHi, this spot delivers breathtaking skyline views paired with an incredible Mediterranean tapas menu and inventive cocktails. The ambiance is romantic and eclectic, making it perfect for special nights out or impressing out-of-town visitors. Pro tip: Time your reservation for sunset — trust me.

    📍 LoHi Neighborhood