On average, Denver has 300 days of sunshine per year and what better way to celebrate friendship with your best gals in the great Rocky Mountains while you explore bustling city-scapes on a girls’ weekend retreat?
I travel with a group of five women so, admittedly, deciding on destination can sometimes be interesting. Denver, though, ended up being a great choice for our escape and also the perfect addition to any Colorado road trip itinerary. With striking views that merge the familiar allure of cityscape with stunning mountains providing endless outdoor adventures, downtown Denver excels as a destination for an all-girls’ retreat.
Optimal Times to Experience Denver
Denver has 300 days of sunshine, so it provides something special for everyone. The only disadvantage you may find that this city has snow, and it will either be a pleasure or a curse as the case wanted. If you enjoy snow sports, the winter will be to your liking. If you like more moderate weather, summer, fall and spring are ready to go for too! This happened in May when the city was warm and pleasant while up in the mountains it was still a bit too brisk for someone unaccustomed to having snow at all.
Accommodations in Denver
Luckily for us, a friend of ours has a dad that lives in Denver and we stayed with him. It was the perfect starting base for our adventures: just outside of town. If you are considering making the trip yourself, renting an Airbnb in Denver is a great option for convenience and comfort.
To stay in the center of Downtown Denver, you should expect prices which usually average roughly $100 or more a night. Some of the top rated hotels in this region include
- Courtyard by Marriott Denver Downtown
- Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel Fine architecture and cool atmosphere.
- Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown
This will allow you easy access to everything the city has to offer, both in terms of attractions and amenities.
Navigating Denver
We were treated to a car by one of our friends who is from Colorado so we had the luxury exploring in that; For those visiting, I highly recommend renting a car here as it will give you the best ability to get around. Denver is a big city with so much to see and do, and having your own set of wheels lets you take advantage of everything in the area.
Things to Do in Denver
- Estes Park – There are so many beautiful things to see here, you could easily spend all day!! The walk is a great way to get away from it all, especially if you are not used to looking at mountain views.
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre – We were not able to make it back for a concert, but the location itself it pretty amazing It’s enough to give you a workout with stairs and just plain enjoyment in watching others do the same.
- Boulder – Home to the University of Colorado. Best college campus I have ever visited.
- Rockies Game – Watching a Rockies game is a great way to get in touch with the local spirit.
- Aspen – Head over to Aspen and do experience a unique Airbnb stay.
Dining Spots in Denver
There are great places for dinner in Denver. These are some of my favorite picks:
- Snooze: this is perfect for brunch and the pancakes. Just prepare yourself for a little bit of waiting.
- Denver Biscuit Company: A local favorite for hearty and delicious meals.
- Acorn: A trendy spot offering creative dishes in a stylish setting.
- Root Down:A unique food experience, Rootdown is known for its farm-to-table take on typical dishes.
For those venturing near Estes Park:
- Antonio’s Real New York Pizza: A slice of New York in the Rockies.
- Rock Inn Mountain Tavern: A cozy spot with great food and a welcoming atmosphere.
And if you find yourself in Boulder:
- Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery: Enjoy a laid-back vibe with great brews and tasty bites.
Denver After Dark
So, you were dazzled by the rooftops of denver for nightlife. We will help you out by telling some of our very own top picks :
- Jackson’s: great for sports fans and city views, overlooks Coors Field.
- Linger: Sip your drinks served from a retrofitted RV, giving a quirky twist to your evening.
- 10 Barrel Brewing: Features more than twenty beers brewed on-site, a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
Other notable spots to explore during your stay:
- Grizzly Rose: A classic venue known for its lively atmosphere.
- Mercury Café: An eclectic bar with an original menu.
- The Church Nightclub: Formally a real church, now The finest nightlife in the city of Denver where you can go and have over-the-top time!
Denver is a great idea for your next journey with friends. So it has something for everyone and your trip partners to create a memory of lifetime.