Known far and wide as the "mile high city" due to its elevation, Denver is the only major urban area for many miles in any direction. Perhaps that helps explain the fantastic concentration of cultural attractions and entertainment options. Though at certain points in its history it has been down and out, such as the late 1800s when the stalwart mining industry nearly collapsed on several different occasions, or when low oil prices devastated growth in the '70s and '80s, Denver has been a fairly consistent success story of growth, expansion, and a flowering of culture.

Given its size and wealth, Denver is home to several world class museums. The principle three are the Denver Art Museum, the Colorado History Museum, and the Denver Museum of Natural History. An afternoon is inadequate for any of them, although the Denver Art Museum, with a recent expansion, really does require a full day or more to truly appreciate.

You have probably seen their painted faces and impassioned cries on television--Denver sports fans are a dedicated bunch. The city has five professional teams, the Colorado Rockies, the Denver Nuggets, the Colorado Avalanche, the Denver Broncos, and the Colorado Rapids. At nearly any time of the year, you can enjoy watching excellent athletes competing in first class sports facilities.

Denver's Mountain Parks

Another impressive feature of Denver is its system of mountain parks. There are 27 of these in an area approximately 15 to 60 miles west of the city. They provide fine opportunities for hiking and enjoying natural beauty.