Explore the Mile High City: Denver City Guide

When it comes to venturing out West, there are so many great cities to choose from. While some of us may envision the beautiful beaches of California, I see visions of the spectacular Rocky Mountains.

Having lived in Denver, CO for six months now, it’s safe to say that I’m officially a Mile High City enthusiast. Denver offers the best of both worlds – a bustling metropolis full of opportunity that’s only a short car ride away from the mountains and world-renowned ski resorts.

Below are a few must-see places in Denver, including some of the best coffee shops, restaurants, parks, shopping districts and more!

For the caffeine aficionados

Photo via Huckleberry Roasters.

One of the best things about Denver is the overwhelming amount of independent coffee shops that inhabit the city. Sure, we also have Starbucks on every other corner, but it’s nice to have options! One of the most talked-about coffee spots in town is Huckleberry Roasters, and for good reason – with two locations and multiple, unique coffee blends to choose from, Huckleberry isn’t your run-of-the-mill roaster. They also offer delicious snacks, which is always a plus.

Other popular coffee shops to check out include: Pablo’s Coffee, Thump Coffee and Crema.

For the traveling ladypreneur

Photo via Shift Workspaces.

For ladypreneurs who always seem to be working on the go, Denver offers a great variety of coworking spaces to get stuff done while visiting. One of my favorites is Shift Workspaces – they offer a cool, contemporary working environment in several locations. What’s not to love?

For the foodie

Photo via Lola Mexican Fish House.

If you haven’t heard already, Denver is big on two things – beer and brunch. Enter Lola, one of the hippest brunch spots in town. With a distinct contemporary Mexican flair, Lola provides a great atmosphere, food and drinks and is conveniently located in the highly coveted Highlands district. My recommended dish? The Lola Chicken and Waffles!

Other brunch spots to check out: Root Down, Linger, Sassafras, Denver Biscuit Company.

For the shopaholic

Photo via Larimer Square.

One of Denver’s premier shopping districts, Larimer Square, is conveniently located downtown, and is chock full of a variety of upscale boutiques, like the very boho-inspired Eve, trendy Hailee Grace and luxurious Blush.

Other shopping districts to check out: 16th Street Mall, Cherry Creek Shopping district.

For the outdoors lovers

Photo via Flickr.

Cheesman Park is one of the most expansive, accessible parks smack in the middle of Denver, and I’m lucky to call it my neighborhood park. With a huge grassy oval in its center, Cheesman is the perfect place for a group picnic, a round of volleyball, or simply lounging in the grass after a long workday.

Other popular parks to visit: Washington Park, City Park, Congress Park.

For the cocktail enthusiast

Photo via Tamayo

When it comes to delicious, inventive cocktails, Tamayo gets it right – every time. Conveniently located in Larimer Square, this popular spot is the perfect place to grab a post-work cocktail solo, or with a group of friends. Did I mention the fantastic rooftop bar?

Other crafty cocktail spots to try: The Nickel, Euclid Hall and The Corner Office.