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We’ve got your look at insider information on top attractions and inspiring vacation ideas. We’ll tell you where to pay tribute to musical legend John Denver, where to find only-in-Colorado boutique buys, how to indulge in a spring-water spa service and where to enjoy free samples and a behind-the-scenes look at Colorado’s acclaimed craft breweries.
And don’t forget, with hundreds of vacation ideas, Hot Deals and events on COLORADO.COM, we’ve made it even easier to enjoy your Colorado vacation.
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MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE: John Denver’s Aspen Sanctuary
The only true place to celebrate the life and lyrics of John Denver is at his little-known and artistically inspired Aspen Sanctuary. If you haven’t already been, or need a reminder as to why you should return, we’ll tell you where it is and why you need to go.
Music-loving pilgrims from around the world converge on the quintessential John Denver destination – his Aspen Sanctuary. Once home to John Denver, the grounds of the estate have been transformed into a memorial, where smooth boulders – pieces of his beloved Rocky Mountains – have been etched with lyrics from his many songs. Each October, the anniversary month of his death, fans gather at this site to honor his memory. Set next to a gently flowing snowmelt-fed stream and surrounded by evergreens and aspens, the site is a fitting tribute to the bard’s work.
John Denver’s Legacy
Country-folk fans know there’s few better than the iconic style of John Denver. His passion for Colorado was obvious; in fact, he went so far as to change his last name from Deutschendorf Jr. to Denver. The lyrics and rhythms of his music voiced the emotions stirred by his Colorado surroundings – no song captured this spirit more than his everlasting “Rocky Mountain High.” In recognition of this song’s sentiment, the State of Colorado adopted it as its second official state song in 2007, 10 years after Denver’s passing.
Find the John Denver Sanctuary near the corner of North Mill St. and Gibson Ave. in Aspen, Colorado.
Discover other Colorado attractions, as well as more vacation ideas at www.Colorado.com/SeeVacationIdeasAndArticles.aspx.
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SHOPPING & DINING: Shopping for Style in Colorado’s Boutiques
Don’t get caught wearing the exact same outfit as everyone else; branch out and slip on stylish cuts created and stitched by local designers. Colorado is fast becoming known for its fashion-forward and only-in-Colorado boutiques. We’ll show you some of the best places to check out.
Where: Denver, Cherry Creek North.
The find: Independently owned boutiques, salons, restaurants and galleries.
The lowdown: Touted as the region's largest collection of independent businesses, this area is for those who take boutique shopping seriously. Being original is easy, because much of what is sold is one-of-a-kind. From designer t-shirts to stilettos, yoga pants to evening gowns, this area offers a bit of everything. And with designers selling exclusive creations at these shops, some of the items are literally impossible to find elsewhere.
Insider tip: Free WiFi is available to shoppers who have their own wireless-ready laptops. Check your email while out and about, or look up movie times at nearby cinemas.
Where: Manitou Springs.
The find: Boutiques, galleries and crafts.
The lowdown: This little town, tucked between the base of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, is full of unique shopping. Browse among small boutiques, galleries and trading posts to discover earthy clothing designs, American Indian jewelry, handmade candies, Pikes Peak region souvenirs and tons of other treasures.
Insider tip: Take a moment to stop and listen to the gentle gurgle of Fountain Creek, which runs along the main shopping avenues.
Where: Breckenridge
The find: Distinguished shops, including distinctive book stores, designer boutiques, doggie bakeries, souvenir stores.
The lowdown: This mining turned skiing town is exceedingly popular with fashionistas. Both the rich and famous and highly fashion minded find their way to Breckenridge’s boutiques to search for a season’s new look. Quaint stores, incredible creativity and impeccable style line the main avenues of this popular tourist destination.
Insider tip: If you need a way to express your unique nature, try one of the quirky hat stores that carry anything from sophisticated to downright silly hats for the slopes and everyday wear.
Where: Vail
The find: Apparel and Mountain Gear. Upscale boutiques showcasing Austro-German styles or West Coast casual.
The lowdown: Think of it as the Saks Fifth Avenue of the Rockies. The pedestrian-only streets of the villages in the Vail Valley make it easy and welcoming for shoppers. Snow-capped bridges and charming lights connect the town’s retail businesses. Gear and clothing stores thrive in this mountain-sporting town.
Insider tip: Just a few miles west of Vail, along I-70, is Silverthorne, a mountain town known for its outlet shopping. Consider a visit on your way to and from Vail for thrifty finds.
Discover other must-shop Colorado locations now at www.Colorado.com/Shopping.aspx.
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SPAS: Colorado Spa Treatments Use Spring Water, Straight From the Source
Only the freshest water, born from the Rockies themselves, is used at a number of Colorado spas. Find out how to get to the source of relaxation at one of Colorado’s nature-inspired spas.
Other state’s spas may chemically treat their water or use extensive filtration techniques before a drop can ever touch your skin. A number of Colorado’s spas, however, use only natural Rocky Mountain water, allowing for a more pristine, natural and pure spa experience.
Brown Palace, Denver
The Brown Palace, a hotel that has hosted presidents and prime ministers, is Denver’s oldest and one of its most luxurious accommodation options. And with this sort of clientele, every aspect of the hotel’s service is second-to-none, including their on-site spa. The Brown Palace uses its natural, underground water source for its many spa services. Indulge in hydrotherapy, various massages, wraps, scrubs and even hair care at one of the state’s most sought-after spas.
The Springs Resort and Spa, Pagosa Springs
The natural waters used by this hot spring and spa are said to have healing properties, and because of their heavy mineral content, there may be something to it. This terraced hot spring experience - where man-made pools are built to look nature-made - has hosted super-celebrity Oprah Winfrey. Try a hot stone massage, exfoliating scrub or consider a packaged trip, where spa features, hotel stays and other area attractions are provided.
Glenwood Hot Springs, Glenwood Springs
The largest hot springs pool in the world is found nestled in a Colorado River valley. The Glenwood Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs includes swimming pools, a therapy pool, a diving pool, kiddy pool and waterslide – as well as a full-service and incredibly relaxing spa. European royalty, presidents and celebrities have enjoyed the site’s services. The spa offers all the top treatments you’ve come to expect, including signature mineral rubs and a variety of facials and massage techniques. The water is treated with an ozone purification system for one of the cleanest hot spring and spa experiences you'll have anywhere.
There are many other spa and hot spring options in Colorado - discover the perfect one for you at www.Colorado.com/SeeSpas.aspx.
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 TRIP GIVEAWAYS 
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WINERIES & BREWERIES: Five Colorado Craft Brewery Tours
With nearly 100 breweries to its credit, Colorado is home to many award-winning craft brewers. Come to Colorado and enjoy a complimentary behind-the-scenes brewery tour and partake in a few free samples of the nation’s finest beverages.
Inspired, full-bodied creations of hops, barley and a passion for the process are so plentiful in Colorado that it would take months to sample just one beer from each of the state’s breweries – let alone their many individual labels.
The majority of the breweries in Colorado are true craft brewers, so don’t expect to go to just any store in the nation and find these award-winning products. To sample some of the best beer in America, you’ll need to travel to our breweries, chat with brew masters and sample their creations. We’ve outlined a few of the state’s many exceptional brewery locations below.
Boulder Beer Company, Boulder
Colorado's first craft brewery, Boulder Beer Company, was established in 1979 by two University of Colorado professors. This one-of-a-kind brew house handcrafts many award-winning beers, including the well-known Buffalo Gold ("Buff Gold" to those in the know).
Odell Brewing Company, Fort Collins
At Odell, they bottle their brew in nothing but recyclable glass and ensure their six-pack holders are made from recycled paper. In tandem with renewability is quality beer. With favorites like Levity, 90 Schilling and 5 Barrel, labels from Odell are popular pours in Colorado pubs. As with any beer, they taste even better when sampled straight from the source.
Steamworks Brewing Company, Durango
If you want a tour of this local favorite, just stop by their Durango location and ask for Pat, he’ll show you around and explain why this small brewery has garnered such a cult following among beer enthusiasts. Steamworks Master Brewers are often experimenting with new and innovative styles, so you never know what new item you’ll find.
San Luis Valley Brewing Company, Alamosa
Near the shadow of the Great Sand Dunes is the San Luis Valley Brewing Company, where bold beers are made. Local favorites include the crisp and refreshing Grand River IPA and the coffee-colored Ol’ 169 Oatmeal Stout. Tours aren’t scheduled here, they’re just handed out. So stop by during operating hours and ask to be shown around the shop, they’re happy to oblige.
Oskar Blues, Lyons
Who says all good beer has to come in glass bottles? Oskar Blues has certainly dispelled that myth. In 2002 they became the very first craft brewer to can their own beer. All cans are specially coated to keep out the tin taste and allow their exceptionally full-bodied beer to shine. A hit with dark beer drinkers is Old Chub. This particular beer has seven various malts and finishes with a smoky flavor.
Find a list of these and other Colorado’s breweries at www.Colorado.com/Breweries.aspx or visit the Colorado Brewers Guild at www.ColoradoBeer.org. Please remember to enjoy Colorado’s brewery products responsibly.
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