The weather in Denver, Colorado is very typical high elevation stuff. Not too much rain, cold in winter and warm to hot in summer. It snows in winter but not for long and nor does the snow stay long because of the warm downslope Chinook winds. Denver is dry, sunny place across most seasons so getting around is easy.
Cheap, expensive and everything in between
The secret to good dining in Denver is to open up your destination range - eat out up the road in Boulder, explore off the main drag, check out neighbourhood bistros and stay away from chainstore experiences.
The budget options - if you're in Cherry Creek, you have to stop at Cherry Cricket. This little bistro occasionally has a wait list, so go at an odd hour (you're jetlagged, what's it matter!), and partake of some of the finest cheap eats in Denver. It's at 2641 E 2nd Ave and serves up standards like chicken with jalapenos, guacamole and cheese. (Nicer than it sounds.) My Brother's Bar is a burger joint in Highland at 2376 15th Street and it does not-so-simple, honest burgers and fries and a fine line in liquid refreshments.
Mid price options - Boulder is not far from Denver and it's well worth a stop for the delights at Lucille's on 14th St. This place does Creole-style breakfast that you must try, serves great coffee, and is justifiably a local institution. Corona's Mexican Grill is in Broomfield at 2255 W 136th Ave and is a schmick new place with great beer, wine and food. If you like Mexican, this is your place.
Splurge - if you love trying local specialties when you're in a new country, then you'll love the experience at Texas de Brazil at 8390 Northfield Boulevard. Okay, not quite Colorado, but! Superb meats, chicken and seafood, influenced by Brazilian Churrascarias. Sauces to die for, excellent service and a superb wine list.
Denver is an outdoors experience
So much of this city's attractions are based around the natural elements - magnificent mountains, scenic drives and hiking, biking and snow sports that it's hard to ignore them. And luckily, Denver's climate helps with sunny days the norm.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway - you'll appreciate just how truly big and open this part of the States is when you do the Mount Evans run. The high altitude drive takes you up just over two kilometres in height in a little over 40 kilometres of road. Your ears will pop and the views will take your breath away as you go past mountain goat herds and vast mountain scenery. Go at night and you'll get a spectacular view of Denver below.
Coors Field - one of the most famous fields in the States and known for its authentic feel. Do the behind the scenes tour, or if you're lucky enough to be there on game day, take in a game.
Invesco Field at Mile High - or, if you're a lover of the oval ball, check out a Denver Broncos game at Mile High. It's very close to the city centre so if you're staying downtown, ask your concierge about games and tickets. Grid iron is a truly unique American experience.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science - if you've brought young kids, this is a great museum to entertain most ages with. There are interactive exhibits galore and you'll see animals, mummies, geology and dinosaurs. It's all superbly done in a terrific building.