Things to do:
Cherry Creek
The 16 blocks of Cherry Creek North represent the premier outdoor retail and dining destination in Denver with an impressive collection of art galleries, independently owned boutiques, fine and fun dining establishments, and international fashion brands.
Cherry Creek Shopping Center: 160 stores, including Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Cole Haan, Louis Vuitton, Restoration Hardware, Apple, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Diesel, H&M, Johnston & Murphy, Michael Kors, Microsoft, Stuart Weitzman, Swarovski, Tory Burch, Urban Outfitters, Vera Bradley, and literally dozens more. Open until 9:00 p.m. 3000 East 1st Avenue.
Cherry Creek Bike Path: This 22-mile path connects to downtown and beyond, creating the perfect route for a morning run or an afternoon ride. Pick up the trail directly behind Cherry Creek Shopping Center.
Elway’s: Dine at this wildly successful venture of former Denver Broncos quarterback and local hero, John Elway. Steaks, chops, and a bustling bar scene. Open until 10:00 p.m. On the edge of Cherry Creek Shopping Center at 2500 East 1st Avenue. Reservations: (303) 399-5353
The Cherry Cricket: This neighborhood staple is a more laid-back experience, featured on the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food,” and named among MSN’s “Best Burgers in Every State.” Open until 2:00 a.m. 2641 East 2nd Avenue.
Cherry Creek Arts District: Explore the neighborhood’s 20 galleries, art businesses and local live theatre. Cherrycreekartsdistrict.com.
Downtown Denver
Union Station: Located in the heart of downtown, the newly renovated 1914 Beaux-Arts train station is home to 10 chef-owned restaurants and bars, boutique shops and a 112-room hotel. Catch a train on the newly opened rail line to Denver International Airport. Hours vary. 1701 Wynkoop Street.
16th Street Mall: Over a mile long, packed with shopping and restaurants, with a pedestrian promenade designed by famed architect I.M. Pei. Hop on and off the free electric shuttle bus that stops at every corner. After dark, horse-drawn carriages and pedi-cabs carry people up and down the mall while nearly a million lights twinkle above in the more than 200 trees that line the promenade. Hours vary between individual establishments.
Howl at the Moon: Part bar, part concert, all fun! Sing, dance, and howl as versatile and talented musicians perform your favorite songs from 80s rock, 90s pop, and today’s dance hits on pianos, guitars, and more in a high-energy show. Open until 2:00 a.m. 1735 19th Street.
Wynkoop Brewing Company: The first craft brewery in Denver and now a local institution. For almost three decades Wynkoop has been brewing handcrafted beer in the basement while operating Denver’s largest pool hall upstairs. Complete dinner menu. Open until 2:00 a.m. 1634 18th Street.
Larimer Square
Larimer Square is the historic origin of the city, the site of the 1858 pioneer camp from which Denver ultimately grew. Today, the two-block Larimer Square district (on Larimer Street between 13th and 15th streets) is one of the Mile High City’s most lively and popular downtown destinations. Here are just a few of the many restaurants and nightspots:
Bistro Vendome: A favorite among those seeking authentic Parisian bistro fare.
Open until 10:00 p.m. 1420 Larimer Street.
Corridor 44: Denver’s only champagne bar and restaurant. Open until 2:00 a.m. 1433 Larimer Street.
Cru: Featuring over 300 wines, 40 available by the glass, plus Wine Country cuisine. Open until 11:00 p.m. 1442 Larimer Street.
Euclid Hall: American tavern with innovative pub food from around the world. Open until 2:00 a.m. 1317 14th Street.
Green Russell: A chef-driven cocktail joint. Open until 11:45 p.m. 1422 Larimer Street.
Ocean Prime: Upscale seafood and piano bar. Open until 10:00 p.m. 1465 Larimer Street.
Tamayo: Elegant, modern Mexican food, tequila bar, and Denver’s newest Latin Lounge. Open until 10:00 p.m. 1400 Larimer Street.
