We’re in the mood to celebrate. Around here, that means waxing romantic about our favorite city and all the things that make it great. But our love simply can’t be contained by city limits. So consider this your list of things to love in the Denver metro area.
1. Westminster Hills Open Space!
My dogs love running around off leash with all the other sweet pups and finding a good muddy spot to stomp in. Don’t forget to bring bags and leave the space better than you found it. 💛 – Minna Quist, product manager (and pups Cayne & Shiva)
2. The art community
The art community in the Denver area is extremely supportive. We have many artist-run galleries and co-ops, and there’s a ton of exhibiting opportunities available for artists to participate in. – Sara-Lou Klein, office manager (and the artist behind Birdhead Creations)
3. Mutiny Comics
It’s a staple of the Denver comic community and has been a favorite location where I feel safe in Denver. They have great comic materials for sale and really support local artistry. They moved recently to a great location in Englewood, but the vibe is still immaculate! – Thea Hunt, administrative assistant
4. The Weathervane Cafe
Amazing food and drinks, the cutest location, the coolest retail shop, and the nicest people who care about the community around them. – Morgan Heslin, senior designer
5. Denver Botanic Gardens
This magical place is where I find serenity year round. The flowers each season are gorgeous, and I love that there are special events throughout the year to keep things different. Also the library and coffee shop next to the gardens is a great place to continue the day and feel at ease. – Meredith Milburn, HR manager
6. Live music
Red Rocks Amphitheater. ‘Nuff said. Except then there’s the Bluebird Theater, Mission Ballroom, the Roxy and Ball Arena. There’s City Park Jazz all summer, Swallow Hill, curated concerts, festivals and random acts you might stumble across in any given corner of town. – Katie O’Dell, marketing manager
7. Movement Climbing Gym
It is where I made my first friends when I moved here. The community is great and I’ve made lots of friends and really learned a lot about climbing. You don’t even have to know someone to get encouragement from people. It was a great way to make new friends in a new city while also picking up a new hobby. There are 6 gyms in Denver, so there is most likely one near where you might live! – Tina Cairns, account manager
8. Dog walks that end at the Platte River Bar and Grill
I love the Platte river trail and after a great walk, I love soaking in beautiful Colorado on my favorite patio, the Platte River Bar and Grill. They have amazing wings, live music and a dog friendly patio. – Jenny Mulligan, co-founder
9. Chatfield Dog Park
If your obsessed with fetch as much as I am, you know Chatfield dog park is the best! Wide open spaces, a couple lakes and no leash rules. It’s my happy place! – Lucy, head yellow dog in charge
10. The great outdoors
The mountains are breathtaking, and the terrain is wild. There’s a new view at almost every turn. The soil changes from light brown to red ochre in some areas. Our land goes from lush to desert. Whether you like to hike, boat, paddle-board, ski, bike, camp or simply explore, there are outdoor activities for everyone. – Sara-Lou Klein, office manager
11. The weather
The number of sunshine days, bluebird days, the snowy days… and the lack of humidity. – Jen Gauerke, creative director
12. Denver Performing Arts Complex
I love the performing arts! Every year I try to attend at least one show whether it is a musical or ballet – it’s the absolute best! – Meredith Milburn, HR manager
13. RiNo Art District
I think a city’s art district is always the best way to see it’s citizens (and not government city planners) at their best. You get an idea of inspires the people and the area feel like it has life and movement. Plus the walkability allows you to explore artisan home goods, breweries, restaurants and local businesses. – Matt Hunter, logistics coordinator
14. The parks
I love to run around in a nice open field. – Kona, assistant to the print finishing assistant
15. Shopping local!
Especially at HR Meininger, Point Creative Supplies and Datura Home. Because supporting local businesses means supporting local people. – Minna Quist, project manager
16. Breweries on breweries on breweries
There are more than 400 breweries in Colorado, with 40% of those concentrated in the Denver metro. Basically, we’re never more than a few blocks from a great pour, and that is a thing of beauty. We’re partial to our neighborhood fav Cohesion Brewing Company, with a special shoutout to Cerebral and the always-outdoorsy New Terrain. – Literally everyone
17. Local sports
Love ’em, hate ’em or wish they were better, our local lineup is stacked. Who else can boast FOUR professional teams literally within city limits? (I honestly don’t know. There could be tons. I’m no sportsologist. I just like it here.) Say what you like about the Rockies—I love any baseball game I don’t have to drive to. – Katie O’Dell, marketing manager
18. The abundance of photo booths
Check out Photo Bang! They have lots of vintage-style and restored photo booths throughout the city. – Vera Benschop, production manager
19. Entrepreneurial spirit
They don’t call Denver the Silicon Valley of the Rocky Mountains for nothing. Ok fine maybe we’re the only ones calling it that. Maybe it’ll catch on. But seriously, between tech migration, intentional incubation and a culture of innovation, the Mile High City is a great place to start a business. We love getting to connect with this thriving business community and finding new ways to use business as a force for good through groups like B Local Colorado, B:CIVIC and Good Business Colorado. – Dan Mulligan, co-founder
20. The treats!
Everywhere I go, there’s someone trying to win my affection with noms. Sometimes they even make them right here in Colorado. I love a Good Dog Star from Cosmo’s Dog Bakery, human-grade meat treats from Angie’s Natural Nibbles and Three Dog Bakery’s Classic Animal Crackers the most. Basically, there’s a entire industry built to serve and pamper me, and that is as it should be. – Baloo, senior paw patroller and cookie monster.
Did we miss your favorite? The best part of this dynamic city is that there’s something for everyone, and lots of room for healthy debate. Share this list and add your own to help us hype the Mile High all year long!
by YellowDog.