As you plan your days in and around the conference, you should really work in some time to see some of our more unique and “only in Colorado” attractions. You can only absorb so much new information before you need a break, so head off on your own or bring a buddy from a workshop.
Enjoy our fair city, drink plenty of water (we’re a mile high) and make the most of the conference!
The Molly Brown House
Some of you may only know her as a character from the movie “Titanic,” but her Victorian home in Downtown Denver is a gorgeous landmark and reminder of her amazing life and spirit. Tours run all day.
Website: mollybrown.org | View map
Water World
This is literally the biggest water park IN THE UNITED STATES. Pack your suit and sunblock, then head up to Northern Denver for a chance to feel like a kid again. Whether you want to take it easy on the Lazy River (who wouldn’t want to bob along a gentle current in a big inflatable tube?), test your courage on the Mile High Flyer (wedgie alert) or splash through River Country with your conference buddies, Water World has something for you.
Website: waterworldcolorado.com | View map
Buckhorn Exchange
The oldest saloon in Denver is still in operation, serving more than drinks these days. Founded by one of Buffalo Bill’s scouts, it’s a piece of living history where you can soak up some of the Wild West.
Website: buckhorn.com | View map
Botanic Gardens
In the heart of Capitol Hill in Denver lies a paradise for the senses. The Gardens are an ideal place to quiet your mind after a long day of workshops and meeting new people. They’re currently featuring two amazing bamboo art installations in the Japanese Gardens.
Website: botanicgardens.org | View map
Casa Bonita
On the West side of town you’ll find a big, pink stucco testament to the wonders of childhood. You might have thought that the kids in South Park were making it all up, but it’s real and it’s here in Denver. It’s a little weird and cheesy, but it’s got a gorilla named Chi Chi, cliff divers and some pretty good sopapillas.
Website: casabonitadenver.com | View map
Linger
This place is cool. For years, we were used to seeing a big sign on the West side of I-25 for Olinger’s Mortuary. Not exactly a landmark to put a smile on your face, but a landmark nonetheless. Things change, and so do landmarks. They’ve Dropped the O and now it’s Linger, a great place to eat, drink and enjoy the GREAT VIEW of Downtown Denver from the patio.
Website: lingerdenver.com | View map
Ice Cream
Apparently, Denver loves its ice cream, gelato and sorbet. We couldn’t pick just one shop to feature, so here are our favorites which carry gluten free, vegan, and dairy free flavors as well.
- Sweet Action Ice Cream
Website: sweetactionicecream.com | View map
- Liks Ice Cream
Website: liksicecream.com | View map
- Little Man Ice Cream
Website: littlemanicecream.com | View map
The Tattered Cover
These bookstores are a Denver institution. They’re big, cool, quiet and comfy. The staff are real, live book lovers and are happy to help you find something but are just as happy to leave you to your own devices as you peruse the shelves, sample a few pages of this or that or just enjoy your latte. You’ll probably want to head to the LoDo (lower downtown) location, and not the more distant Cherry Creek location.
Website: tatteredcover.com | View map
Featured photo by Brad Klucsarits