Downtown Denver (Photo: Shutterstock)
Denver, also known as the "Mile High City'' because its official elevation is exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level, is a great city to choose for your next kosher vacation. The city has more than 300 days of sunshine each year, outshining even San Diego or Miami Beach. Denver still has distinct seasons, and each comes with its unique charm. The winter months may be chilly, but they also offer a snow-capped landscape and opportunities for winter sports, particularly in the nearby Rocky Mountains. Spring brings a wave of colors, summer offers warmth for outdoor adventures, and come autumn, you'll witness a stunning display of fall foliage.
Denver is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks like the ornate Union Station, and a booming craft beer scene. The city is dotted with an array of breweries, each offering a unique take on Colorado's beloved craft beers. This makes Denver a haven for beer enthusiasts, with a brewery to suit every preference.
Beyond that, Denver offers family-friendly attractions, outdoor recreation, and unique neighborhoods brimming with character. Denver has a small kosher scene, a couple of meat restaurants, pizza, falafel, ice cream and kosher shops. There is also a Chabad House that has minyan and hotels nearby if you are staying over Shabbat. With a range of activities to choose from and the beautiful changing seasons, Denver is an ideal kosher vacation destination any time of the year.
Union Station in Denver (Photo: JJ Shev - Unsplash)
Savor the Spirit of Denver: A Tour of Timeless Landmarks
Denver Capitol Building: This stately edifice, resplendent with its gleaming golden dome, isn't just a shining beacon of Denver's skyline, but also a historical touchstone. Take a guided tour and witness the awe-inspiring architecture and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains from its public observation area.
Larimer Square: Denver's oldest and most historic block is part of a charming neighborhood, filled with 19th-century buildings, is a lively hub of shops and vibrant nightlife. At night, the canopy of lights stretching above the streets lends an enchanting ambiance to the square.
Union Station: Denver's transportation hub and "Denver's Living Room". This architectural gem boasts a Beaux-Arts facade that encapsulates the city's spirit. Venture inside and explore a buzzing world of local boutiques and even a boutique hotel.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Check out the schedule if you are visiting during the concert season. This naturally formed, world-renowned concert venue offers a sensory feast - a spectacular performance staged between two 300-foot sandstone monoliths, under the open sky and against the backdrop of Denver's cityscape. You won't find another concert experience quite like it.
Mile High Stadium: officially known as "Empower Field at Mile High", is home of the Denver Broncos. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and get a sneak peek at the NFL team's locker room, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum, and more.
Whitewater rafting in Clear Creek River (Photo: Envato)
Embrace the Great Outdoors: Denver’s Natural Wonders and Activities
Rocky Mountain National Park: Spanning a striking 415 square miles (or 265,807 acres), Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a diverse array of breathtaking mountain ecosystems. Towering peaks, serene lakes, and a variety of wildlife provide an enchanting escape from the city bustle. Make sure to pack a picnic – there are some views you'll want to savor.
Mount Evans: Perfect for those who like to hike and are looking for a challenge. The drive alone, along the highest paved road in North America, is worth the trip. Reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views that make the climb worth every step. Remember to take it slow and steady – the air's thin up there!
Cherry Creek Bike Path: Take a leisurely bike ride through Denver's urban and natural landscapes. Stop off at local hot spots, enjoy the scenery and remember - it's about the ride, not the destination.
Denver offers a variety of water activities for thrill-seekers and leisure-lovers alike. Whether it's paddleboarding on Cherry Creek Reservoir, tackling the whitewater rapids of Clear Creek River, or casting a fishing line in tranquil waters, you're in for a splash of fun. These activities are typically enjoyed during the warmer months, so plan your trip accordingly!
Denver Botanic Gardens: An oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a variety of plant life, tranquil ponds, and quiet corners perfect for unwinding. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the gardens provide a welcome break from Denver's lively pace.
American craft beer scene: Denver is a haven for beer enthusiasts with a multitude of breweries to explore. No matter the season, you can embark on a self-guided beer tour to sample local brews. Most American non flavored beers are kosher but there can be issues with kashrut of beers that are flavored or certain microbreweries (check with your rabbi if you have questions). Beyond this, Denver hosts several beer festivals throughout the year, the most notable being the Great American Beer Festival in the fall, offering a superb showcase of national brewing talent. So whether you're visiting in the summer sun or the cool fall, Denver's beer scene is always ready to impress.
Denver's Family Fun Bonanza: Activities That Make Everyone Smile
Denver Zoo: Embark on a journey through different habitats, coming face-to-face with everything from majestic lions to playful penguins. Pack a lunch, slather on some sunscreen, and get ready for a day of fascinating wildlife exploration.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: With a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and exhibits spanning from dinosaur bones to Egyptian mummies, the museum makes learning feel like an exciting adventure.
The Downtown Aquarium: Houses an incredible array of underwater species. Come face-to-face with stingrays, soak in the vibrant colors of tropical fish, and if you're brave enough, you might even touch a live starfish.
Elitch Gardens Theme Park: Perfect activity for thrill seekers. Whether you're a rollercoaster junkie or a water slide enthusiast, Elitch Gardens packs in a full day of smiles, screams, and fun-filled memories.
Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus: With interactive exhibits designed to inspire learning through play, it's a place where kids can be kids and grown-ups can be, well, kids again!
Skiing in Breckenridge, Colorado (Photo: Envato)
Winter Wonder: Embracing Denver's Snow-Capped Season
When the Denver landscape is blanketed in snow, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering its own unique charm and a fresh set of adventures. If you're visiting Denver during the winter months, you're in for a frosty treat.
Denver is the gateway to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. While the city itself isn't a ski destination, it's a mere stone's throw away from world-renowned mountain resorts such as Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen. Whether you're a newbie looking to find your snow legs or a seasoned pro ready to take on black diamond slopes, these ski resorts have something for every skill level.
But the fun doesn't stop at skiing and snowboarding. There are many snow-laden activities, such as snowshoeing, ice fishing or maybe a cozy sleigh ride is more your speed. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and enjoy the snowy scenery at a leisurely pace.
Off the slopes, Denver continues to shine. The Denver Botanic Gardens takes on a whole new look under a layer of snow, offering a serene winter walk. If you're looking for some indoor fun, the Denver Art Museum and the History Colorado Center provide cultural and educational escapes from the chilly weather.
So, don't let the cold deter you. Denver in the winter is a snowy spectacle you won't want to miss. Wrap up warm, embrace the chill, and dive into a flurry of fun in the Mile High City.
Mount Evans (Photo: Envato)
Conclusion
As you can see, Denver is full of activities for a great family vacation, whether you are traveling with younger children or teenagers. The city has so much to offer including historical sites, a vibrant arts and craft beer scene, family-friendly attractions, and thrilling outdoor adventures, it's a place where everyone can find something to their liking. The unique allure of Denver extends through all seasons, revealing a new facet of its charm as the calendar turns.
Denver is great for kosher travelers. With a selection of kosher restaurants and shops to choose from, you'll have no problem finding a bite to eat while exploring all the delights the Mile High City has to offer. So, whether you're an art enthusiast, a nature lover, a history buff, or a beer connoisseur, Denver is ready to welcome you with open arms. Start planning your Denver adventure today and let the city's magic unfold before your eyes.