Denver, the Mile High City, is not just a gateway to the Rocky Mountains but also a booming hub for business in sectors like technology, renewable energy, and telecommunications. The challenge for business travelers is to effectively blend work commitments with the unique leisure opportunities Denver offers. This guide will help you strike that balance, making your trip productive and enjoyable.
Denver's airports each provide unique experiences, catering to various travel needs—whether you're flying internationally via Denver International Airport, heading on a regional business trip, or seeking a more private travel experience.
Where to Go:
How to Get to Downtown Denver | ||
---|---|---|
A Line Commuter Train Cost: $10.50 Time: 37 minutes |
Flat Rate Cab Cost: (Zone A) $71.03 Time: 30-40 minutes (traffic dependent)
Metered Cab Cost: Approximately $75.00 Time: 30-40 minutes (traffic dependent) |
Rideshare Cost: Variable Time: 30-40 minutes (traffic dependent) |
Where to Go:
How to Get to Downtown Denver | ||
---|---|---|
Rideshare or Taxi
|
Where to Go:
How to Get to Downtown Denver | ||
---|---|---|
Rideshare or Taxi
|
Embark on your Denver adventure with savvy and mindfulness, making sure to fully embrace the city's unique blend of urban charm and natural splendor. Heeding these tips will ensure a rewarding and smooth experience as you navigate the Mile High City for business and pleasure.
Denver’s public transportation system is a reliable ally for navigating the city efficiently. Here’s how to make the most of it.
The RTD MyRide app or card is your convenient, cashless way to pay for rides on buses and light rail. It simplifies your travel across the Regional Transportation District (RTD) network.
Denver's light rail system, operated by RTD, is a swift and efficient way to travel. Connecting the suburbs to downtown, it's an ideal option for commuting from places like the Denver Tech Center or Aurora to the heart of the city.
Covering an extensive area, RTD buses are a reliable way to navigate the city and surrounding regions. Plan your journey easily with apps like Google Maps or Transit for real-time tracking and route planning.
While not part of the public transport system, services like Free2Move and Lyft are popular in Denver. They offer a convenient alternative for trips where public transport might not be the best fit, such as late-night travel or visiting areas outside the main transit routes. Lyft also has an e-bike and scooter rental program.
Denver's music scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city's landscape, ranging from folk and country to rock and hip-hop. As you journey through the Mile High City, let the tunes of iconic local legends like John Denver and The Lumineers, along with contemporary artists like Nathaniel Rateliff, set the rhythm for your Denver experience.
Denver's business-friendly hotels merge convenience, comfort, and style, providing the perfect setting for any business trip. With state-of-the-art amenities, strategic locations, and elegant interiors, these hotels are designed to enhance your stay in the Mile High City.
Located in the heart of downtown Denver, The Ritz-Carlton offers a luxurious retreat close to the business district, Coors Field, and the Denver Center for Performing Arts. It features spacious rooms with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel's renowned Elway's Downtown steakhouse, a sophisticated fitness center, and a serene spa make it an ideal choice for business travelers seeking luxury and convenience.
This modern hotel stands next to the Colorado Convention Center, perfect for business events and meetings. The Hyatt Regency Denver boasts contemporary rooms with stunning Rocky Mountain views, free Wi-Fi, and workstations. Enjoy locally sourced cuisine at Former Saint Craft Kitchen and Taps and unwind at the 27th-floor Peaks Lounge with its breathtaking city views. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center and an indoor pool.
Embrace history and elegance at The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, an iconic hotel operating since 1892. Situated in downtown Denver, it offers luxurious rooms with timeless décor, Wi-Fi, and comfortable work areas. Experience fine dining at the Palace Arms, indulge in afternoon tea in the atrium, or rejuvenate at the hotel's spa. Its proximity to Denver's top attractions and business centers makes it a distinguished choice for discerning business travelers.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco, in the heart of downtown Denver, offers a vibrant, boutique experience. The hotel combines bold design with exceptional service, featuring pet-friendly rooms, yoga mats, and a complimentary wine hour. Business travelers will appreciate the convenience of in-room workspaces and high-speed Wi-Fi. The on-site Italian restaurant, Panzano, provides an exquisite dining experience.
Boost your productivity and embrace a new working environment by exploring these diverse, work-friendly spaces in Denver.
Pablo's Coffee on 6th Avenue is a haven for coffee enthusiasts and remote workers alike. Its cozy environment, complete with eclectic décor and comfortable seating, creates an inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly brewed, specialty coffee, paired with a no Wi-Fi policy, encourages focus and minimizes digital distractions, making it an ideal spot for deep work sessions.
For a serene and stimulating workspace, head to the Central Library in Denver’s Civic Center. This architectural marvel offers free Wi-Fi, quiet study areas, and an array of resources at your fingertips. Surrounded by books and the library’s grandeur, you’ll find it's a perfect spot for research, writing, or simply working in a peaceful setting.
Union Station, Denver's historic transportation hub, is not just about trains and buses. It's a lively, beautifully restored space featuring high ceilings, plenty of seating, and free Wi-Fi. With coffee shops and eateries within the building, it’s ideal for casual meetings or solo work sessions in an energetic and iconic Denver locale.
Located in the trendy RiNo (River North Art District) neighborhood, The Source offers a unique blend of industrial chic and modern comfort. With its artisan food market, numerous cafes, and open seating areas, this venue provides a vibrant backdrop for creativity and productivity.
Experience Denver's dynamic social scene with these select happy hour venues, perfect for charming your clients with great drinks, delightful small plates, and engaging atmospheres.
Set in the trendy LoHi (Lower Highland) neighborhood, Linger offers an eclectic and global tapas menu accompanied by an impressive view of the Denver skyline. Its rooftop lounge is an ideal spot for happy hour, featuring creative cocktails and a variety of worldly bites, all in a vibrant, modern setting.
Located in the historic Oxford Hotel, The Cruise Room is Denver's iconic martini bar, exuding a classic art deco style. Renowned for its timeless elegance, it provides a unique ambiance for happy hour with its signature martinis and crafted cocktails, perfect for a sophisticated client meeting.
Situated in the hip RiNo district, Death & Co is the Denver outpost of the renowned New York City cocktail bar. Known for its innovative and expertly mixed drinks, the bar offers a cozy, intimate setting for happy hour. It's an excellent choice for impressing clients with a taste for the avant-garde.
Denver's skyline and the majestic Rockies create an ideal setting for rooftop dining and socializing. The city's rooftop bars and restaurants blend stunning views with Colorado's culinary innovations and signature cocktails.
As Denver's highest open-air rooftop bar, 54thirty sits atop the Le Méridien hotel, offering breathtaking views of the city and the mountains. It's an exquisite spot to savor craft cocktails and small plates, all while soaking in the beauty of the Mile High City from above.
Located in the Lower Highlands neighborhood, El Five boasts an unobstructed panorama of Denver’s skyline. This rooftop spot is known for its Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails, creating a vibrant atmosphere for an evening out. It’s a perfect choice for impressing clients or enjoying a sophisticated night on the town.
Right in the heart of Denver’s lively Ballpark neighborhood, ViewHouse offers a sprawling rooftop space with a casual, fun vibe. The menu features a modern twist on American classics, complemented by a wide selection of local beers and craft cocktails, making it ideal for a laid-back business gathering or a post-conference wind-down.
Situated atop The Source Hotel in the RiNo Art District, The Woods is not just about the panoramic city views; it's also about a unique culinary experience. Their menu, inspired by Colorado's fresh, local ingredients, pairs perfectly with their in-house crafted beers, creating a dining experience that’s authentically Denver.
Your business trip to Denver doesn’t have to sideline your fitness regimen. The city is brimming with outdoor spaces where you can stay active and fit.
This popular trail offers a scenic route through the heart of Denver, stretching over 40 miles. It’s perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely bike ride, providing a beautiful backdrop of urban and natural landscapes.
Many hotels in Denver understand the needs of business travelers, offering state-of-the-art fitness centers. From treadmills to free weights, these facilities provide everything you need for a comprehensive workout.
Denver's diverse array of yoga and Pilates studios cater to all levels. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing session to de-stress or a challenging workout, the city's studios offer a range of classes to fit your schedule and style.
For those willing to venture a bit outside the city, Denver’s proximity to the Rockies provides unparalleled opportunities for mountain biking and hiking. Trails like those at Red Rocks Park or Green Mountain offer a chance to immerse yourself in Colorado’s famed natural beauty.
Denver's parks, such as City Park or Washington Park, are ideal for those who prefer an outdoor workout. With ample green space and picturesque views, these parks are great for running, body-weight exercises, or simply enjoying some fresh air.
Denver, a city where urban sophistication meets the beauty of the great outdoors, offers abundant opportunities for a fulfilling bleisure experience. This suggested itinerary will guide you through some of Denver's most notable attractions at a comfortable pace.
Denver's burgeoning coffee scene is a delight to explore, and Little Owl Coffee, located in the heart of downtown, is a prime example. Known for its meticulously sourced beans and precision brewing, this chic café is the perfect spot to energize before your city exploration. The modern, minimalist setting provides a peaceful environment to savor their exceptional espresso and filter coffee offerings.
After your morning coffee, take a leisurely walk to Confluence Park, where the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet. This urban oasis offers a chance to unwind and enjoy nature without leaving the city. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors to bask in the Colorado sun, watch kayakers navigate the rapids, or simply enjoy the park's natural beauty.
Step into the vibrant atmosphere of LoDo, Denver's historic heart. Wander through its bustling streets and discover landmarks such as Union Station, Larimer Square, and the Dairy Block. The area's rich history, combined with contemporary shops and restaurants, makes it a fascinating district to explore.
No visit to Denver is complete without experiencing the culinary delights of the Denver Central Market in the RiNo Art District. This gourmet marketplace offers a wide variety of local eateries and artisanal shops. Whether you're craving wood-fired pizza, fresh sushi, or a gourmet sandwich, you'll find an abundance of choices to satisfy your appetite.
End your bleisure day with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens, a serene escape in the midst of the city. This lush sanctuary features a wide array of plant collections and themed gardens. Wander through the Japanese Garden, marvel at the tropical conservatory, or find a quiet spot to relax amidst the gardens' natural beauty.