Five things you have to experience in Denver, Colorado

“New York, fast food, American football and the Grand Canyon.” When people think of the United States of America, most of the time Denver is not mentioned at all. But why not? Denver has everything to offer to a traveler.

A friend of ours has lived for more than a year in this marvelous city and we think it would be a waste when his stories did not reach other travelers. Therefore, his most ultimate experiences are listed in this post.

1. Sports

Most people do not think of winter sports when they hear of Denver. However, when you visit Denver in winter, this is the ultimate place to ski or to snowboard. In a 30 to 60 minute drive from the city center you can reach several ski/snowboard areas. Of these, Aspen is probably the most well-known. However, Winter Park is closer to the city and is the perfect place for real ‘daredevils’. The slopes, vibe and people are great for the ultimate snowboard trip.

2. Red Rocks

A few miles from Denver you will find Red Rocks Park. In this park, there is one of the world's biggest outdoor theaters: The Red Rocks Ampitheatre. The biggest artist in the world have performed at this stage. Think of the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, U2, Oasis, Jimmy Hendrix and many more. Combining these world class artists with the wonderful over Denver makes visiting a concert even more an ultimate experience! 

3. Garden of the Gods

If one park is not enough, and you would like to bike, picnic or walk, the ‘Garden of the Gods’ is a must. The park owes its name to its extraordinary rock formations: it looks like god made this formations and shapes himself. 

4. Air Force Academy

To experience the American culture, a visit to the Air Force Academy is a must. Americans have always been proud on its military power. A prime example of a showcase of this is the Cadet Chapel. In this house of God, Christian, Protestant, and Jew Air Force cadets practice their religion. As most Americans are religious, a visit to the this chapel is worth whole. Especially seen the location on an US Air Force base. Moreover, the entrance is for free! 

5. Stanley Hotel

Need a place to sleep? Or you just want to feel what Jack Nichelson experienced during The Shinning? In both cases, the Stanley Hotel is the place for you. This beautiful hotel is located between mountains and is surrounded by wide, green forests.
Want to know more about the shinning? See http://greenscreenmovies.blogspot.com/ for a review!

Dinner time

After all the sporting, park visits and horror in the Stanley Hotel, one needs to eat. When you prefer some ‘non-USA food’, authentic Mexican food, we recommend Blue Bonnet. It has so many awards they have stopped counting. Another recommendation: ‘perfect margarita’. For the next morning head over to Snooze Eatery. It is the perfect place to get some pancakes or omelets (customizable!). This restaurant is highly recommended when you have a long, though day ahead.

‘Highway to hell’

For all these activities, a car is required. Denver is a big city with lots of beautiful spots outside its city limits. Luckily there are lots of rental car agency where you rent a car for a decent price. And what is wrong with driving with this view?

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