Denver

How To

With the pandemic and the election and everything else that 2020 has thrown at us so far, it’s important to remain positive and hopeful. Even though the future is the biggest mystery of all right now, we can still daydream about what we’re going to do when we can be in gatherings of more than 5 people without masks on. One thing I’ve been daydreaming of these past few days is concerts! So, as we prepare for future adventures, here’s a guide to enjoy your first concert fresh out of the pandemic…

Set aside the entire day to have fun!

Although most concerts take place in the middle of the week and most people have work or school commitments, try to see if you can take some time off in the afternoon to prepare for your concert! It’s nice to not have a tight-schedule, and that way you can spend your time getting ready and excited.

Wear something fun!

Part of that prep time should be picking your outfit for the night! Even if you don’t like getting “dressed up,” make sure you wear something you’re comfortable and happy in. I personally enjoy wearing a variety of outfits – ranging from a nice top with sparkly shoes to a unicorn onesie and my old Converse. Artists love looking out into the crowd to see the fans embracing the night with themed costumes and/or coordinated outfits!

Make something!

In a big venue, I would suggest making your own poster with some play on words of your favorite song. In a smaller theatre, you can do the same thing but make it smaller, along the lines of an 8×11 piece of paper. Again, artists love looking out into the crowd to see people really appreciating them and their work, and they want to get to know all of their fans! Even making a sign that says it’s your first show is something that will make the artist so happy to see. Just be mindful of the people around you, so don’t hold it up during the whole show.

Travel lightly, but pack the essentials!

When you’re dancing the night away, you’re not going to want to worry about holding your bag. So, either rock the stylish fanny-pack or keep things in your coat pocket!

In your fanny-pack or pocket, you’ll need a few things. No matter how good your cell’s battery life is, bring an extra charger/power bank. The last thing you want is to be separated from your friends in downtown Denver with a dead phone, so just bring the charger! Also remember your wallet, and preferably bring cash. After having a fantastic night, you’ll probably want a t-shirt or poster to commemorate it all, and some merch booths only take cash.

The most essential item you should have on you seems obvious, but forgetting it happens. You’ll need your ticket! Whether that’s a screenshot of the QR code you received in an email, or a printed copy, your night is going to be cut short if you forget this key element.

Remember to put down the phone!

Yes, you’ll want to take pictures when the artist goes to the side of the stage closest to you. But just remember that those are just pictures, and you’re there for the memories! I usually record one song and take a few pictures, and then simply enjoy the rest of the night.

Now that you’ve learned the basics, you are ready for your first concert post-COVID! So, make sure to wear a mask and maintain social distancing so that this can happen in the near future!

How To

Packing for a trip to Denver can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re going during the “buffer seasons.” This refers to the extreme ups and downs of Colorado weather by the hour, honestly. Especially the few weeks between summer and fall, winter and spring, and spring and summer. Basically anytime the seasons are changing, don’t assume the weather in Denver is…stable.

However, not all hope is lost. As a Colorado native with plenty of experience with bipolar weather, here is some advice on how to pack for your trips to Denver! If you take anything from this, make sure it’s to always pack layers. No matter the time of year or whatever the weather may be, this general month-to-month breakdown should help lighten the load. Well, if you’re packing plenty of layers your load will be much heavier…you know what I mean.

Denver in September

September is usually pretty cold in the mornings and it often warms up in the afternoons. 40-50 degrees in the morning and sometimes at or above 70 degrees by the afternoon. Therefore, layers. Don’t bother packing shorts, but t-shirts are acceptable so long as you have a light sweater to go over it. If you want to be extra prepared, include a snow and/or rain jacket to your suitcase.

October

October is fairly consistent, there might be more chilly days here and there. This is when natives swap their t-shirts for sweaters and Birkenstock’s for Sorels. Again, keep in mind those layers but know that even if the temperatures do rise, there will still be a faint chill in the air. Include hats and gloves to be safe, and you’ll definitely need a heavy jacket this time of year as well. For shoes, either insulated tennis shoes (that you don’t mind getting wet) and/or snow boots!

November

Similar to October, but there will likely be more snow. However, as soon as the snow sticks to the ground, it will probably be gone the next day. As soon as there is snow during the fall in Colorado, the sun is still blazing and it ends up melting away fairly quickly. In case you’ve forgotten already, pack your layers and I’d recommend some hats and gloves and a heavy jacket again, you’ll definitely want your snow boots as well.

December

A total toss-up, there could be blizzards and maybe not. If anything, pack like you would for October and November. The few activities you’re able to do outside will definitely require snow pants and some other heavy-duty snow accessories. Don’t bother much with layering around this time, it will likely be cold most of the day. Not that you’ll need to wear your snow jacket all day, but long sleeves/sweaters and jeans are a must. It’s officially sweater weather!

January

Absolutely freezing, similar to December but this month you may end up wearing a snow jacket all day. The sun peaks through every so often, but not enough to completely melt the snow. Also, the sun sets much sooner so the days seem much shorter and colder. Throw in some movies and hot chocolate into your suitcase, you won’t be doing much outside!

February

February honestly tricks everyone into thinking warmer weather is coming–oh, but just wait for March–so it’s crucial to start thinking about layering again. There is still snow, but there is also a bit more sun. So with that, by the end of February the ground is “sloshy.” There is so much snow melting but it has nowhere to go so it ends up as gross, black slush all over the roads and sidewalks. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes, you still may need those snow boots….

March

March is the worst. For the weather at least. Let’s pack a bag for Denver in March. Now this is important, and I cannot stress this enough, layers. As well as rain boots, rain jacket, long pants, long sleeves, a light sweater/cardigans, hats, gloves, and your sanity. March is cold and wet and sludgy and weird. BUT  the mountains are breathtaking because the mountains are finally visible and they’re still covered in snow. The view is worth the hassle.

April-July

If the weather is every somewhat consistent in Colorado, it’s during the summer. Most days are hot and dry, the forecast is hardly every below 60 degrees and sometimes they reach close to 100. 75-90 degrees is a solid range. The transition from spring to summer may bring some rain, so if you’re staying around that time throw in a rain jacket and an umbrella just in case. Once June is in full swing it is finally time to bring out those shorts, tank tops, and Birkenstock’s again! Be sure to pack those sunglasses and sunscreen too. Denver is the “Mile-High City,” we’re 5,280 feet above sea level, you’re more likely to get a worse sunburn here faster. If you’re prepared for the sun, you’ll be just fine.

Thanks so much for reading, I hope you found some of this information helpful. Enjoy your stay in Denver! Remember, even though the weather may not be consistent, our mountains and dispensaries sure are!

 

 

Informative

Into Nature: 

If you enjoy nature, Denver is where you should go. Every season has something different to offer. In the summer, hikes and lakes are the places to be. During the winter, Denver offers a lot of resorts perfect for skiing. For the summer, Belcher Hill trail. It’s a pretty long hike which makes it good for a warm summer day. If you’re more into the cold, however, Denver is also the place to go. During the snowy season, skiing is a common sport practiced in Colorado. The largest skiing resort near Denver is the Winter Park resort and it is only 2 hours away from the Denver International Airport. However, it is important to keep in mind that during the pandemic, most places are working a bit differently. Be sure to check out their websites and have a safe, fun time! 

Winter Park
PC: colorado.com

Not Into Nature:

If nature just isn’t your calling, Denver is also the perfect place to go. Known for being a big city, it is full of things to do. If shopping is your thing, the 16th Street Mall is perfect for you. It’s a long street that offers shopping and dining, right in Downtown Denver. The Denver Outlet Shops are also a great option for shopping at outlet prices which are oftentimes very good prices. Before COVID-19, there were also great options like Elitch Gardens, Pepsi Center, Coors Field, and the Empower Field at Mile High. Before COVID-19, Denver was the perfect place to go to a Rockies game in the morning and a Taylor Swift concert at night. Still, you can enjoy places such as Denver Zoo,  Denver Aquarium, and the Denver Art Museum, just make sure you wear your mask and are socially distancing.  

16th Street Mall
PC: visitdenver.com

Visit Year-Round: 

Denver is known for its snowy winters (sometimes even fall). However, Denver is a very sunny city. Averaging 300 days of sunshine, Denver is perfect for summer activities. But if you’re more into the cold weather, Denver has that too. If you drive to Denver, snowy conditions might be dangerous so please plan ahead.  

Denver City during the snow.
PC: NY Daily News

Without a doubt, Denver has a bit of everything for everyone! So get your family together and plan a trip to Denver, but remember to keep yourself and others safe during these hard times.

 

Personal

I thought and understood that I would leave Denver someday because I had no plans to stay in the U.S. after college, and I wanted to return to China. But I never thought it would come so suddenly. It took less than a week when I received the charter flight email from the embassy to the time I packed my bags and headed home. I didn’t say goodbye to Denver, and even on the way to the airport, I told myself that my departure was only temporary and that I would come back.

I love Denver in the fall, watching the leaves turn yellow little by little. It’s an unexplainable feeling, but the mood gets better somehow. In the fall, I like to drive around Denver with my friends and enjoy the scenery. Denver is the most beautiful place in autumn. Maybe it’s because the city I live in China has a shortfall, so I am overly fond of autumn. I also love our campus, I love all the flowers and trees, and I love DU after the snow. I love the city of Denver so much.

Since I left my hometown at the age of 18, Denver has helped me grow up a lot. Denver made me a more independent girl, leaving my parents’ protective wings and relying on myself for everything. I can say that after going abroad is to make the world by myself. Everything depends on me. I took a lot of detours and shed a lot of tears. But looking back now, I am confident and proud of my achievements. I used to feel that I was not good enough in every aspect, but now I think I am unique and beautiful both in appearance and soul. I have to admit that I grew up under my parents’ protective wings in China, who protected me so well that I was never wronged. But coming to Denver, where I live in a more culturally diverse place, I have become more and more able to appreciate myself and others and embrace anyone’s differences. Even less likely to judge someone for being different from myself. I have also been able to understand and embrace people I don’t like because of their experiences. I grew up in a family environment that success means a happy family, a successful career, money, cars, and a house. Still, over the years, I’ve realized that everyone’s definition of success is different. So life is much happier with less comparison.

Thanks to my parents’ ability to let me out to see the outside world. Every country has its own different cultures, and there is a big difference between American and Chinese cultures. Because of the cultural differences, living in Denver for so many years has significantly broadened my horizons, truly experienced multiculturalism, practiced the ability to think independently, and cultivated the mindset to face victory and defeat openly. It has also helped me to understand human nature and society more comprehensively. This is an experience that I cannot imitate or taste in China.

Denver gave me my first little house of my own, my first car of my own, and taught me many things to understand. I have unique feelings for Denver, and I know that it will be hard for me to return to this city as soon as I leave Denver, so let’s keep these thoughts in my heart. Denver, we are destined to meet again. I love Denver, my second hometown.

 

Listicle

I am a concert aficionado – I live and breathe for the rush of going to a concert. The feeling when the house lights drop in the amphitheater and then whole crowd goes crazy and the artist takes the stage and you know you’re about to have the best 2-ish hours of your life… Yeah, that’s the good stuff.

I know now with COVID pretty much anything has been cancelled or postponed, concerts included. But that doesn’t have to stop us from getting excited about future events and daydreaming about seeing our favorite artists again! So, in preparation for that glorious future, I have compiled a list of my 4 favorite small music theaters in Denver. These venues hold a plethora of potential – from hosting EDM artists, to small indie bands, to heavy metal, to trendy pop stars – it’s very probable that someone you’re familiar with has been to one of these concert halls.

1 – Ogden Theatre (935 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80218)

Located 15-20 minutes away from the University of Denver campus on East Colfax, sits the small but quaint theatre known as the Ogden. You find parking at either a street meter or a paid lot, and then go stand in line to enter the building. Once you’re inside and past the lobby, it’s a free-for-all to get a good spot for the show. The floor is tiered, getting a little more narrow as you get closer to the stage.

For wheelchair users and people with limited mobility, there is the top tier in the back that offers a great view and safety from the masses. If you want to sit, you can request a chair and sit in the ADA section, or up the stairs there’s balconies that have seating available.

A picture of singer Rachel Platten posing with her left arm up to show she is strong, there are purple lights behind her and a crowd in front of her
Rachel Platten at the Ogden Theatre, from March 25th 2016

2 – Paramount Theatre (1621 Glenarm Pl, Denver, CO 80202)

Sitting pretty, tucked away in the midst of the 16th Street Mall, is our next feature: the Paramount Theatre. With a maximum capacity of 1,870 people, this venue is great for all artists big and small. It offers an intimate and personal vibe, while accommodating everyone.

The wheelchair and limited mobility seating exists, but isn’t amazing. The area that is specifically reserved for ADA is the very back row, which isn’t that great of a view, especially when all the fans stand up and dance. I personally try to get front row seats, because they are removable, and then I obviously have a great view!

Singer Alessia Cara on stage with her left arm extended towards the audience to touch their hands, there is blue lighting behind her
Alessia Cara at the Paramount Theatre, on October 10th 2016

3 – Fillmore Auditorium (1510 N Clarkson St, Denver, CO 80218)

The Fillmore just screams music vibes from the moment you arrive. You spot the big bright sign advertising the night’s show, there’s music already playing (no matter how early you start to stand in line), and once inside it just feels so authentic. The kind of authenticity that the Hard Rock Cafes strive for, but will never reach compared to the Fillmore.

Like the Ogden, the Fillmore’s seating is at a first-come-first-serve basis. It is just one big pit, with side areas for the ADA and for those who prefer to sit. Once the concert starts, the whole building starts to thump along with the bass. But the acoustics are insane, it’s one of the best things I’ve heard.

Band 5 Seconds of Summer on stage, the audience takes up most of the picture, the band is lit by white and blue lights
5 Seconds of Summer at The Fillmore Auditorium, on September 30th 2018

4 – Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465)

This list wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention Red Rocks at least once. Now, technically, this is not in Denver, but from the University of Denver, it’s only about a 30-minute drive. And it’s worth it, I promise.

Located literally inside the stones, the 70 rows of steps and seats face the stage. People say the artists get the best view of the audience and the magnificent landscape, but I always think I have the best view. The front row is not even 3 yards away from the stage, and the stage is a step taller than the ground level.

Wheelchair users and people with mobility issues get the best out of this deal, as the ADA section includes the first few rows or the 70th row at top. So, when I say I’ve got the best seat in the house, I usually mean it, as I am typically front-and-center singing my heart out.

Singer Halsey is posing on stage, her dancer is behind her also posing
Halsey at Red Rocks, on July 31st 2018

A lot of people right now are bummed about sporting events being cancelled and limited in capacity due to social distancing, but at least they still get to enjoy it somehow. With concerts being postponed until further notice, all I can do is stay “in-touch” with my favorites via social media where I am one of millions. At least when I go to concerts, I can tell myself they saw me and that they know of my existence. But until everything sorts itself out, I am an ant in their big world.

So, if you’re someone who isn’t so sure about this whole “mask thing,” please do it anyways. If not for the benefit and health of you and your community, do it for concerts. And until then, I will be listening to my playlists at full blast, daydreaming about the future.

Listicle

Local businesses are booming here in Denver, especially clothing boutiques. As a fashion lover myself, I have spent my fair share of time visiting the local clothing stores Denver has to offer.

I have compiled a list of my personal favorites, differing in location, style, and price point in hopes to offer a well-rounded shopping experience!

  1. Melrose and Madison
Image taken from instagram.com/melroseandmadison

The first that comes to mind is named Melrose and Madison, which features an expansive space, which is impressive for a boutique. It is on the premium side of shopping because it carries designer brands, which come with a higher price point. I buy my denim from here because they carry the brand names I prefer, like Mother Denim and Agolde. I feel good about supporting a local shop as opposed to a department store. It is located on Old South Pearl Street, a popular place to dine, walk, and shop. Their website is currently down, but their Instagram can be found here. 

2. Pinks Denver

Image taken from https://pinksdenver.godaddysites.com/

The second store I recommend checking out is called Pinks from LA. Trendy styles “straight from L.A.” prompt an appeal to a younger crowd. Many high school and college girls shop here because of this, and because of the reasonable prices, uncommon to see at boutiques. I shop here when I need a dress for an occasion, or just if I want a new top, and I can count on not overspending. They have lots to choose from and are constantly getting in new arrivals! This shop can be found on University Blvd, in between the I-25 exit and Cherry Creek area. Stalk their Instagram here.

3. Patterns and Pops

Image taken from instragram.com/patternsandpops

Next up is this bright shop which claims to have “sweet treats for your closet” featuring bright and unique styles for women of all ages. They carry baby and kids clothes too! They keep prices on the affordable side, without sacrificing quality. Their Instagram is very popular, especially for their try-on parties, which are helpful in seeing the clothes on a person! Patterns & Pops is on a busy block near Downtown Denver, in Lohi.

4. W Boutique

Image taken from instagram.com/wboutiquedenver

W prides themself on “East Coast meets West Coast fashion” with everything under $100. They carry a variety of styles and cater to woman of all ages. For example, I consistently find things I like here, and my mom also picks out stuff she would wear! This local boutique actually boasts two locations in the Denver area, one on Old South Gaylord Street near Wash Park, and the other in Southeast Denver off of Happy Canyon Road, near Cherry Hills. See their Instagram here. 

5. Meraki Moon

Image taken from instagram.com/shopmerakimoon

Lastly, I recommend stopping at this boho-inspired boutique  It is a cozy shop with carefree, yet aesthetically pleasing merchandising. They carry a range of brands, meaning the prices vary. Personally, I remember seeing a few designer brands with a higher price tag, but they also have sales! I scored a brand name tee shirt for $20! Wedged in a strip of local businesses, you can stop by Meraki Moon in the up and coming River North neighborhood in Denver. Check out their Instagram here . 

Listicle

The beautiful city of Denver provides amazing opportunities for outdoor excursions, delicious food, cozy stays and freshly brewed coffee on almost every street corner– not only do the endless options have a seat for you and your friends, but they’ve reserved a water bowl for your pup too!

My golden retriever, Mabel, and I love to experience what Denver has to offer together, and luckily the dog-friendly Colorado capital makes that easy to do! Below are some of the best spots to enjoy everything from a cup of coffee to a walk in nature with your furry best friend.

#1 Cherry Creek State Park – Off Leash Dog Area: S Entrance Rd, Aurora, CO 80015

My absolute favorite place to take my dog is the off-leash dog area at the Cherry Creek State Park. The views are spectacular, and there are acres upon acres for your furry friend to run and make friends. There is a dirt trail running throughout the entire park, at one point leading to a small creek that is safe for dogs to splash around in. There are also obstacles at some point along the trail, where it’s easy to teach an old dog new tricks! This not-so-hidden gem in Aurora guarantees a great time and a tired pup!

 

 

#2 The Watering Bowl: 5411 Leetsdale Dr, Denver, CO 80246

Save a dog. Drink a beer. Sound like a good time? Well, then head over to The Watering Hole where they serve cold beer with a purpose. Rescue donates 10% of net profits to dog rescues, so you can feel good not only because you don’t have to leave your pup behind when you go to lunch, but also because that beer is helping dogs without homes all over the country. The Watering Hole is great way to spend the afternoon with your best friend.

 

#3 The Crawford Hotel: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202

Looking for a place to stay, but struggling to find a place suitable for your dog? Look no further than the Crawford Hotel. Located right by Union Station, the Crawford Hotel knows that your pet’s comfort is as important as yours and provides the amenities to prove it. Your doggo will get the royal treatment, a bed, two bowls, treats, bones and chew toys are all included in the $50 per night per pet fee. And that’s not all— the deal is sweetened with a Furbo pet watcher installed in your room, so if you feel like hitting the town no leash in tow, you can meander worry free!

#4 Stella’s Gourmet Coffee and Such: 1476 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210

Enjoy a latte and listen to live music with your pup in tow. Stella’s caters to humans and dogs alike, selling delicious coffee creations for you as well as treats for your furry friend. Sit on the patio and enjoy the beautiful weather Denver has to offer in the company of your best friend.

#5 Sloan’s Lake: Sloan Lake, Denver, CO 80212

Sloan’s lake is a bustling park with a trail wrapping around the water. It is a beautiful walk that you and your dog can both enjoy together. With plenty of wagging tails to sniff and a few miles to walk (or run), your pup will be exhausted after their time at Sloan’s Lake. Lucky for you, the trail is in the Highlands, one of the best neighborhoods in Denver for food. Once your doggo is worn out and you’ve built up an appetite from walking around the lake head to one of the many dog friendly restaurants nearby!

Review

Being a coffee fanatic, I try to stay aware of any new coffee shops popping up in Denver. I was recently made aware of  Black Rock Coffee Bar opening a new location in DTC and had to give it a shot.

My first impression of the space was that it is aesthetically pleasing, has great natural light, and holds lots of seating (for when it is safe to open). The Black Rock brand is noticeable and there is a multitude of drinks to choose from. I find it convenient that you can walk inside or use their drive-thru. I was surprised that they have a drive-thru because it looks so nice from the inside! I appreciate both aspects.

I ordered a simple iced latte and my boyfriend tried one of their “premium” drinks, an iced caramel blondie. Both were delicious, but I liked the sweet drink better! Other drinks that caught my eye on the menu include classic espresso drinks, blended “chillers,” smoothies, chai tea, hot chocolate, iced tea, and even a couple energy beverages. As for food, they had a few items in the pastry case, but not much else. I recommend dining elsewhere before grabbing a drink here! The prices of the drinks were reasonable in comparison to a lot of other local coffee shops where one drink can cost you $6. At Black Rock, you can get a drink for under $5.

After browsing their website, I found out that Black Rock Coffee is a chain and they have many locations across the Western part of the U.S. I am excited to have them in Denver! They do have a rewards program, which fuels my desire to go back and try another one of their specialty drinks!

https://www.yelp.com/biz/black-rock-coffee-bar-denver?hrid=DDTM0vbGzcs99isdU-Y8ng&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Review

If you’re looking for a sophisticated brunch eatery, this is the place! Located on E 17th St. and Franklin St. it’s easy to locate for the naked eye. As you walk into the restaurant you first notice the large patio nicely decorated with lots of seating. Two steps further, inside the lingering smell of fresh pastries, recently pulled from the oven, waft over you. The environment inside was very clean and an enthusiastic staff made it an all around exuberant setting. The menu made it hard to make a decision on what I wanted as there were so many different mouth-watering options ranging from french toast, omelettes, hashes, and brunch sandwiches. I ordered a basic breakfast consisting of two eggs made over-easy, two strips of bacon, golden sautéed potatoes, and a side of assorted fruit. Don’t even get me started on the delicious beignet along with an iced vanilla latte. The coffee and food were made all in under 15 minutes and just the way I had asked. The portions weren’t overly filling, but just enough to feel the satisfaction of an excellent meal. Sitting on the patio, enjoying the companionship of friends and eating my breakfast was a great start to my day. I will definitely be finding my way back to Olive & Finch in the near future!

https://goo.gl/maps/L9AGqxZENNnBvspA9