Founded as a coal mining camp in 1859, the city boomed under the weight of inrushing cowboys and gunslingers. Little gold was found, but the prospectors stayed anyway and so the city grew.
There’s still a flavour of the Wild West to be found here, particularly if you explore a little way beyond the city borders. The boundless natural resources of the surrounding Rocky Mountains include several ski resorts and national parks, and with 300 days a year of sunshine the weather could hardly be more amenable to exploration.
Most of all though, Denver is a sophisticated, modern metropolis with a young and liberal atmosphere and a cityscape to rival many of America’s other big cities. It’s geographic position near the heart of the US has attracted energy, telecommunications and distribution industries to add to strong natural resources that support healthy primary and manufacturing sectors, making for a diverse and thriving populace with a great variety of modern entertainments.
Where to stay
The Brown Palace is both modern and elegant, with a full-service business centre, modern health and fitness suite and six restaurants among its many facilities. The Magnolia is an excellent alternative, with a full range of mod cons and a great location.
Where to eat
Sushi Den is a fashionable Japanese restaurant popular for business entertainment, though it is a little out of town. Rioja is more centrally located and compliments an excellent Mediterranean menu with a well-constructed wine list. Vesta Dipping Grill is a fun and friendly place where great food is only half the experience.
What to see
The US Mint is a popular attraction, though a tour of Denver’s microbreweries is just as fascinating. There are some great museums, such as the Denver Art Museum, Museo De Las Americas and the Museum of Natural Science.
