Scratch the veneer of the new-West look of urban Denver and you'll get a glimpse of the Old West, too. Sitting at 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level, in view of the Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City is a study in contrasts.

The golden dome of the state capitol overlooks a downtown where historic buildings and architecturally significant modern structures stand side by side. A modernistic airport keeps company with tumbleweeds on the vast prairie far out of downtown. Exotic Asian markets rub shoulders with restaurants that specialize in bison steaks.

Technology brings many business travelers, yet many visitors love this place for its eclectic mix of restaurants (Asian, Mexican, Italian, Greek, German, Cajun), reflecting the diverse tastes of its population. It boasts many upscale hotels, including a handful of boutique hotels, the grand historic Brown Palace and modern accommodations with all the expected amenities.

In 2006, the city celebrated the opening of a major expansion to the Denver Art Museum — the Frederic C. Hamilton Building. And the city's sate-of-the-art convention center is always heavily booked.

There are plenty of attractions for visitors who want to spend a few days in Denver. Museums pay tribute to Buffalo Bill Cody (his grave is in Golden), Margaret (the Unsinkable Molly) Brown, modern artist Vance Kirkland, black history, Jewish history and many local historic figures, among other subjects.

Love sports? You can find professional teams playing year round, whether it's football, baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer or lacrosse.

World-class shopping rounds out the Denver experience. Downtown shoppers can ride the free trolley on the pedestrian friendly 16th Street Mall for easy transportation.

Just outside the city of Denver, the amphitheater at Red Rocks creates a unique venue for everything from classical symphony to rock n' roll.

If you come to Denver looking for outdoor recreation, you won't be disappointed. Miles of bike trails and fabulous city parks that offer everything from hiking to water sports will give visitors plenty of opportunity to admire the temperate climate and the Rocky Mountain views.

Community Resources:
Denver Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau
1555 California Street #300
Denver, CO 80202
800-2-DENVER

Colorado Vacation Directory
Denver, CO 80303
Phone: 303-499-9343
Toll Free: 888-222-4641