By Laura Smith
Last week you read about New York state as a potential vacation destination this summer. This week, we head West to Denver, Colorado. With more than 100 activities to partake in this summer, you will be sure to have a good time wherever you go in the Mile High City.
Are you into the great outdoors? Then you know Denver has prime outdoor
activities and spots to hike, bike, camp and more. Head out to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater for a day hike or concert or explore Rocky Mountain National Park a short drive away. If you want to just sit back and relax and enjoy the Colorado scenery, take a ride on the historic Georgetown loop, a narrow gauge railroad through the Rocky Mountains.
If you want to bring the kids with you, there are plenty of Denver attractions to keep you and them entertained. Head over to the Denver Zoo and come face to face with a Komodo dragon or experience heart-pounding thrills on the 45 rides at Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park downtown. Kids into baseball? Take them down to Coors Field to see the Colorado Rockies play.
If you’re looking for specific summer events, head out to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival on Fourth of July weekend. The festival, which has been around since 1981 celebrates visual, culinary and performing arts usually brings out an annual attendance of 350,000 visitors. The festival’s non-profit mission provides art education and outreach programs in local area schools. In August, check out the finish of the U.S.A Pro Cycling Challenge in downtown Denver on the 28th.
Looking to delve into the cultural side of Denver? Find your inner Jack Sparrow at the Real Pirates exhibition at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or get a little dirty at the Marvelous Mud exhibit at the Denver Art Museum. Finally, head over the Botanic Gardens to see the internationally-acclaimed outdoor Native American sculptures.