Rodeos and 5 Other Things Denver Is Known For
If you've ever hopped onto one of those airport shuttles in Denver, you might have caught a glimpse of the bustling downtown area or the rugged mountainous terrain beyond. However, there's much more to discover in this thriving city. Nicknamed the Mile High City, Denver is more than just a picturesque backdrop to your Colorado vacation. This article will explore Denver's rodeo culture and highlight five other things that make this city unique.
Denver's Rodeo Culture
Rodeos have a long and storied history in this city, dating back to the early days of Western expansion. The annual National Western Stock Show is one of the country's largest and most prestigious rodeo events. This 16-day event brings together talented cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world to compete in various traditional rodeo events such as bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing.
Denver's Craft Beer Scene
With over 150 breweries in the metro area, it's no surprise that Denver is considered a top destination for beer enthusiasts. The city hosts several beer-centric events throughout the year, including the Great American Beer Festival – one of the largest in the world – attracting thousands of beer lovers annually. Denver's diverse craft beer scene offers traditional brews alongside bold and innovative offerings from seasoned brewers and aspiring entrepreneurs. With taprooms all over the city, visitors will never be far from their favorite pint.
Art and Cultural Landmarks
Denver is a vibrant city with a wealth of artistic expression on display in its many galleries and museums. The Denver Art Museum boasts an extensive collection of visual art spanning centuries of creativity across six continents. Red Rocks Amphitheatre – an iconic natural wonder turned concert venue – hosts world-class musicians throughout the summer months atop breathtaking views of surrounding rock formations. Red Rocks is also a popular locale for hiking and yoga.
Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
Denver boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's proximity to the Rocky Mountains provides ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and rock climbing. Denver's extensive park system offers over 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways to explore, including Washington Park, City Park, and the striking Confluence Park, where the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet.
Food and Culinary Delights
From delicious street tacos to gourmet farm-to-table restaurants, Denver's food scene is as diverse as its residents. As home to numerous award-winning chefs, Denver's reputation as a food lover's paradise is well-deserved. Foodies can indulge in Colorado-specific culinary delights such as bison burgers or green chili – a local favorite often used in smothered burritos or enchiladas. For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss out on sampling mile-high pies at one of the many local bakeries.
With its lively rodeo culture and culinary experiences, there is no denying that Denver is a city that wears many hats. Visitors can dive into the rich world of arts and cultural landmarks while exploring all that the great outdoors has to offer in this majestic metropolis. So whether you're on your first visit or planning to come back for more, be prepared to be captivated by all that Denver has to offer – always leaving you with something new to discover.
