Last month in April I had the pleasure of visiting not only Denver, but Colorado for the first time. One of my good friends, Lynette, invited me to join her in celebrating her 40th birthday in the Mile High City. I knew automatically it was going to be a good time because Lynette and I always have a great time together. Lynette also joined me last year for one my best Coachella experiences as well. I was extremely excited to RSVP to this April extravaganza.
Denver is incredibly close and a quick plane ride from California and yet I never took it upon myself to plan a trip there. This capital of Colorado is known for its high altitude and more recently for getting people even higher with THC. Denver also has more to offer with their sports teams, outdoor activities, arts, food, culture and more. I knew my first visit to Colorado was going to be a quick weekend rendezvous, so I tried to encompass as much as I could.
My weekend excursion to Denver to celebrate my friend’s 40th was an absolute wonderful time. I really felt the love and appreciation of my fabulous friend, Lynette. My three day trip also showed me why Denver is loved and appreciated by so many as well. This western wonderland is expansive in its mountainous beauty, parks, art exhibits, rich culinary scene and much more. Although the weather may be indecisive my mind is completely made up that I will be returning to Denver again.
Please see my Denver tips and weekend Itinerary below.
City of Denver Tips
- Bring layers! Denver weather can be ever changing and indecisive so dress accordingly.
- Denver is VERY spread out with different areas/ neighborhoods. Save money by renting a car or using friends/ family with vehicles.
- Altitude Sickness is felt more when dehydrated or intoxicated. Stay thirsty (for water) my friends.
- Being a mile high in the air dries out your skin. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
Weekend Denver Itinerary
Where I stayed: Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Downtown Denver.
Friday:
Land at Denver International Airport. Take light rail or drive into downtown Denver, check-in and check out happy hour at your hotel.
Head to Appaloosa Grill for Friday night dinner and live music.
Head back to the hotel for a great night’s rest.
Saturday:
Walk over to Syrup for brunch with flavored mimosas and full servings of delicious food.
Walk off at that full brunch by wandering and exploring downtown for art murals and architecture.
Head to Lookout Mountain Park trail for a more aerobic activity and great views of the city.
Have a snack, including homemade fudge, at Buffalo Bill’s Cafe and Gift shop.
Head to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for an evening concert or
Head back downtown for dinner at the Denver Milk Market and evening show at the Denver Improv Comedy Club.
Sunday:
Head to the Denver Biscuit Company or Toro restaurant for homemade biscuits and southern cuisine or an all you eat exquisite Latin fine dining brunch experience.
Head to the airport to your destination full of great food and experiences.
Other activities recommended for Denver: