Wandering Washington Park

Total Number of Days/Nights: One

Itinerary Summary: This neighborhood and centerpiece park never seems to go out of style. Once home to prominent Denverites in the early 1900s, this historic and well-maintained area just south of downtown is still one of the city's most popular outdoor spaces.
 

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The young and trendy frequent the 165-acre park at South Downing Street and East Louisiana Avenue for every activity under Denver's more than 300 days of sun. Impromptu soccer, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, ultimate Frisbee and lawn bowling games are easy to come by, and kids can enjoy the jungle gyms at the playground. Fishing is popular near the old boathouse on the north side of Smith Lake, and a 2.5-mile crushed-granite path looping the whole park makes running or strolling an enjoyable diversion.

While you're at Wash Park, as the locals call it, don't miss its historic markers like Wynken, Blynken and Nod, a memorial to Denver poet Eugene Field and Field's old cottage. Also, among 54 huge, spring flower gardens is an exact replica of Martha Washington's garden at Mt. Vernon, Virginia. Near the garden is a bronze plaque under the old Washington elm, where George Washington took command of the Continental Army in 1775 in Cambridge.

Once you've burned some calories exploring the massive park, head east to South Gaylord. This old neighborhood business strip, bordered by Washington, Mississippi and Tennessee streets, is full of charming shops and restaurants. For a delicious lunch, try Riever's or the Washington Park Grille. Both offer top-notch food, outdoor seating and great people-watching. To top off a good meal with a sweet treat, head to Bonnie Brae Ice Cream shop—considered one of the best places in Denver to enjoy ice cream on a warm summer day.

Also visit Pearl Street, just west of Washington Park. Old Pearl Street offers unique shopping and dining in a pleasant, pedestrian-friendly setting. If it's Japanese food you're craving, head to the Sushi Den, a sushi bar with a dance-club atmosphere and great food that is flown in fresh daily. Check out Lola's for a new spin on Mexican. This colorful, contemporary restaurant serves up fabulously modern Mexican seafood cuisine. After dinner, visit Stella's Coffeehaus for a cappuccino, latte or Italian soda before a night out on the town.

For more information on Washington Park, call the Parks and Recreation District at (303) 698-4962.