Top Luxury Experiences in Denver
Denver is a hot spot for adventures of the very best kind. Be it a private cooking class, wine tasting, fine dining or art and antique shopping, Denver is a creative city with plenty of unique experiences. These are ten things that should make it onto your itinerary if you’re looking for a luxurious and memorable trip…
Experience the Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Quite possibly one of the most unique event spaces on earth, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is just ten miles west of Denver and thus a must-see when you’re in town. An ancient rock formation that has been transformed into an astounding open-air concert venue; Red Rocks boasts unrivalled natural acoustics and mesmerising surroundings. Iconic artists have performed under the stars here and if you time your trip well, you may just get to see one of your favourites playing live as you stand in the midst of gigantic rocky outcrops and over 9,000 other lucky spectators.
Afternoon Tea at The Brown Palace Hotel
When in Denver, it’s important to embrace the city’s history and traditions, so a visit to the century- old Brown Palace is a great place to start. Regarded as a national treasure by the locals, this grandiose hotel has been the focal point of the financial and cultural districts for decades and housed many a president and celebrity in its time. If you haven’t chosen to stay here, then experiencing the charms of The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa is best achieved by enjoying an afternoon tea in the grand lobby lounge. When the Devonshire cream is imported from England, you know it’s going to be good.
Take a Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park or Vail, Colorado
Discover hundreds of miles of scenic trails, waterfalls, and majestic mountains only 90 minutes north of the city at the Rocky Mountain National Park which is now celebrating its 100th anniversary. The park straddles the Continental Divide with 76 mountains within the park. Trail Ridge Road, which cuts through the park, is the world’s highest continuous highway. Vail, about one and a half hour drive from Denver is home to those famous ski resorts in the winter, and they are even more spectacular in the summer, with gondola rides, fine dining, mountain hiking and biking, all with the best of Rocky Mountain scenery.
An Introduction to Urban Wineries
Denver doesn’t exactly stick to the norm when it comes to wine production. Brimming with urban wineries (that’s right, it’s time to forget those French inspired images of rolling vineyards and open fields) that create some truly accomplished wines in a modern setting; Denver’s wine scene is going from strength to strength and breaking away from old traditions as it goes. We’ll book you onto a private wine tour that’ll introduce you to the idea of the urban winery, as well as the best bottles they’ve got to share.
Read more...Spa Time at The Oxford Hotel
Like the aforementioned Brown Palace & Spa, The Oxford Hotel is another of Denver’s historic gems. Opening its doors in 1891, the Oxford Hotel has been at the forefront of luxury and world-class service ever since. One of its most notable assets has to be The Oxford Club Spa, one of Denver’s most revered day spas. If you’re up for a couple of hours of pure relaxation, then let us know. We can have you booked on to their Decadent Day package which includes a stone massage, facial, manicure, pedicure and even some time in the hair salon. If this sounds a little too girly for the men amongst you, then the Gentleman’s Experience, which offers a sports massage and a variety of men’s skin treatments, will ensure you’re not left out. And, make a stop at the Cruise Room bar which is modelled after a 1930s bar aboard the Queen Mary.
Dine at Fruition
Fine dining in Denver is easy to come by as its foodie scene continues to grow exponentially, but one of our absolute favourites has to be Fruition. Serving up ‘New American’ cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients, you can expect anything from grilled bavette steak to pan roasted trout with oven dried grapes. It’s all wholesome, meaty and classic American fare that’s been transformed into a gourmet triumph.
Get Cooking
Continuing the theme of food and drink, we’re pretty sure you’ll also love the opportunity to cook up some classic American dishes under the careful instruction of a talented chef. Denver’s Cook Street School of Culinary Arts’ Steak and Whiskey class in particular is a great way to spend a few hours. You’ll hone your skills at cooking different types of steak whilst sipping on some locally brewed spirits (go slow if you plan on creating something edible though…). There will also be someone from a local distillery to talk you through the tastings of their products, adding another dimension to your cooking experience. You’ll never want to leave.
Take a Private City Tour
The story of Denver is an extremely interesting one and is best uncovered with the help of a private and enthusiastic guide than with a crumpled tourist map. Enthusiasm is infectious after all, so being led around town by an enamoured local will keep your interest piqued for hours. From downtown Denver to the original city settlement to neighbourhoods full of historic mansions, this is a tour that will be sure to introduce you to Denver’s best bits.
Shop along Antique Row or in Cherry Creek
Denver’s Antique Row is a treasure trove of luxury and historic items. You could easily spend a whole afternoon sifting through old books, accessories, collectibles and beautiful furniture. The upscale Cherry Creek neighbourhood is also filled with lots of shopping options, from Neiman Marcus to local galleries and independent boutiques. Try not to go overboard though; getting your cherished loot home may be a bit of an issue at customs.
Explore Larimer Square
Grab a latté and do a little window-shopping in Larimer Square on Larimer St., between 14th and 15th streets. This historic district epitomizes urban style and sophistication – if you’re on the hunt for tomorrow’s trends, you’ll find them here, either in the shops or on the locals who hang out in the square. What began as Denver’s first city block is today one of the city’s most chic fashion and foodie districts. From handcrafted jewelry, to chic bags, to shoes that let you step out in style, you’ll find clothing and accessories to tempt you. And, you will find champagne and wine bars, as well as the Green Russell speakeasy bar which is slightly hidden and looking like a pie shop when you walk in…but serves the best of Denver hand-mixed cocktails.