Luxury Awaits In The Mile High City

So I hear you've decided to check out the Mile High City - maybe to hit the slopes, for business, or you're simply looking for a retreat. This city is full of urban adventure and spectacular scenery with an outdoorsy vibe. In just two days you'll experience luxury in one of Denver's finest downtown hotels, taste your way through the city, and yet, probably find yourself in the middle of nature as well. Let's get right on into it!

CHECK IN:

Kimpton Monaco Denver

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown, located close to 16th Street Mall, RiNo Art's District, many rooftop restaurants, the Red Rocks Amphitheater, and so much more. The Kimpton Monaco is one of Denver's most inviting and stylish hotels. You'll see from first entering the bedroom suite how intricate and modernly designed the room is. Not only is it immersed in luxurious leathers, woods, and contemporary golden accents but it also is shockingly spacious. I have to admit, to date, this stay has the most natural light of any hotel I have stayed in. The hallways are lined with countless windows, overlooking a center courtyard area, and the bedroom windows are nearly floor to ceiling with spectacular views of both downtown and the mountains. Hey Kimpton Monaco, are you accepting for long term stays (LOL)?

The intricate details are highlighted by the bathroom structure. If you're looking to take a warm shower after hitting the slopes, or enjoy a morning cup o'joe while getting ready (and for free during morning happy hour), this bathroom is beyond welcoming.

Did you hear me mention that they offer free coffee every morning? Well, just when you thought it couldn't get any better, I'm here to tell you there's free wine by happy hour time. I enjoyed some red wine in the lobby while cozying up to the fireplace, and then headed up to my room with some takeout from local restaurants. With that, let's checkout some of my favorite spots while you're in the city!

MUST VISIT:

Red Rock's Amphitheatre

As a midwestern girl, I had heard of the Red Rocks but could not have anticipated how spectacular of an experience it would be to view it first hand. When researching some of the best mountain views close to the city, every sign pointed towards the Red Rock Amphitheater. In fact, it is only a 20-30 minute drive west of the city; which is all it takes to experience breathtaking views. I highly recommend checking it out during sunrise, as you'll see the sun rising over the city as everyone awakes, while also seeing the moon set over the opposite side. From Mumford & Sons, Stevie Wonder, and the Dave Matthews Band to the Beatles and Johnny Cash, the Red Rocks Amphitheater isn't only a spectacular sight for the views, but also for the world renowned concerts they put on. When you're in the area, make sure to check out if any concerts will be playing, as it will be a memory for a lifetime!

Union Station:

This vintage, yet hip, train station is probably one of the main spots you have heard about in the city and it's definitely worth checking out! I flew into Denver International Airport and took the A-line train into Union Station (all aboard!!) where it was an easy walk to the Kimpton Monaco where I was staying. The terminal grand hall is a gorgeous site, which has been morphed into a gathering spot filled with many hip restaurants, coffee shops, and specialty stores.

Dairy Block:

A celebratory block, full of artful surprises and experiences, the Dairy Block is a fun stop especially once the sun has set as it is full of laminating lights that light up the entire block. Whether you're a fun seeker, a tastemaker, a local shopper, or simply all of the above like me you're going to have such a fun experience. You can plan a dinner, enjoy cocktails, and shop locally and even grab a fun photo for the memories like I did.

WHERE TO EAT:

Breakfast/Brunch: Tupelo Honey

Breakfast in bed? Say no more! Just a quick walk from the Kimpton Monaco Hotel, and next to Union Station, is the Tupelo Honey Cafe. If you followed along with my Charlotte Blog, you'll remember that I visited Tupelo Honey while also in Charlotte. I loved it so much the first time, that I decided to enjoy it again this time but via breakfast in bed style. A classic southern cuisine in the Colorado Rockies, you get what you see below (a delicious spread)! From the Shoo Mercy Griddle (sweet potato pancakes) to the Mountain Blueberry French Toast and Banana Pudding Dream Pancakes, your palette is about to be in heaven. This is definitely a must if you are someone that loves breakfast foods just as much as I do!

Dinner: West of Surrender

Where the American West is made modern, with familiar ingredients from a storied place and time, you will find West of Surrender. Located just a few blocks from the Kimpton Monaco, and along the 16th street mall, it is truly in one of the most gorgeous setting of downtown. I chose outdoor seating to enjoy the holiday lights along the mall strip while treating myself to some of Denver's tastiest cuisine. I started off with the Stanfield Tonic, which was a cocktail that changed from a purple to pink (so of course I had to get it) and the artichoke dip with spinach; this truly was the best spinach artichoke dip I have ever had (creamy and full of flavor). For dinner I had the Rib Stroganoff which is pictured below. If you're someone who loves immense flavor, because let's be honest who doesn't, you are going to fall in love with this spot. Amazing food, with even better service, and a stunning view. Don't leave without getting yourself, and if you want to be nice you can share, the Old Grandad Chocolate Fudge Cake; once you scroll down you'll understand why.

Rooftop: 54thirty

A must is Denver's highest open air rooftop, where the drinks taste a little better, the views are a little clearer, and the vibe is just a little more enhanced. 54thirty is 20 floors above the already mile-high city - talk about some"mile high vibes". If you love sunset views, like myself, I recommend making a reservation just before the sun sets. Not only will you get to experience the rooftop with clear views during daylight, but you will get to experience the breathtaking sunset over the mountains. As for the meals, I started off with the butcher's block and kale & apple salad with the appropriately named #thatviewthough cocktail. For dinner I had the Wagyu Burger, which was so full of flavor, and I finished off with the chocolate peanut butter pie! Finishing off the night, with the moon over the mountains, I ordered the City Peaks cocktail, which tasted even better with the view. If you're looking for some of Denver's best cocktails and small bites, add this to your list! Checkout the view below from day to night, and of the #thatviewthough and City Peaks: