A recent business trip took me to the vibrant city of Denver for a socially-driven hackathon, but the trip was more than just work; it was a chance to delve into the city’s dynamic culture with catch up with cherished. While my work commitments kept me fairly occupied, I made sure to savour every moment of my brief stay in the Mile High City during its lively spring season.
Discover Downtown Denver: A Hub of Artistic Expression!
Denver is renowned for its diverse art scene that caters to art lovers of all tastes. From prestigious museum exhibitions to the lively street and public art installations, Denver promises an enriching cultural journey. Despite a tight schedule due to my participation in the hackathon, I found the perfect local guide, my friend Brooke, who recently relocated from California to Denver.
She helped me explore areas I hadn’t seen before, ensuring a blend of fantastic art, scrumptious cuisine, and unique local boutiques. We embarked on our artistic adventure in the RiNo (River North) Art District, celebrated as “where art is made,” just north of downtown Denver. Here, we were enchanted by the works of local photographers, sculptors, architects, and painters, who display their masterpieces in quaint galleries and sprinkle them throughout the streets. The district’s vibrant street art transforms the once mundane warehouse area into a riot of colours, making it a feast for the senses. If you’re planning a visit, consider devoting a full day to truly immerse yourself in everything RiNo has to offer.
We managed to find time to get a quick shot of the two of us in RiNo before heading to her house, where my friend Amy was picking me up to meet me for dinner, and I was able to introduce Brooke and Amy to each other.
For those looking to explore further, Denver boasts several other notable art districts and attractions:
- Blue Bear, the iconic forty-foot sculpture peeking into the convention centre.
- Art District on Santa Fe
- Golden Triangle Creative District
- Tennyson Street Cultural District
- South Pearl Street
- 40 West Arts
- Arts on Belmar
And for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss out on the Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Explore the Local Markets
For a quick, cozy, and delightful lunch, we chose Veg Bowls at Biju’s Little Curry Shop, a gem that blends Southern and Indian cuisines uniquely and deliciously. Post-lunch, we strolled over to the Denver Central Market, a gourmet food hall akin to a farmers market, featuring a plethora of treats from baked goods, chocolate, and ice cream, to wood-fired pizza. Accompanied by a bar serving signature cocktails and local beverages, this market is a paradise for foodies. Despite traveling only with carry-on luggage, which limited my shopping spree, I couldn’t resist grabbing a bag of “Hometown” coffee beans from Sweet Bloom Coffee, with enticing notes of praline, cocoa nibs, and blueberry.
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Denver’s culinary scene has seen a resurgence in recent years, establishing itself as a top gastronomic spot in the USA. Whether you’re craving a classic steakhouse meal, a farm-to-table experience, or a jazz supper club session, Denver’s unique high-altitude vibes add a distinct flair to its offerings. On one fine evening, a colleague and I indulged in Creme Brulee and wine at the Thirsty Lion Gastro Pub, located just a short walk from our hotel. The restaurant serves typical American pub fare with a twist, and their creamy, vanilla bean Creme Brulee was simply the perfect culmination of a day well-spent.
Breakfast at Snooze Eatery, adjacent to Union Station, was another highlight. Known for its buzzing atmosphere and scrumptious breakfast offerings, Snooze is a must-visit whether you’re an early bird or a brunch enthusiast. Opting for a combo of their Smashed Avocado Benny accompanied by Blueberry Danish pancakes proved to be a delightful decision to fuel my adventure-filled day.
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