Outdoor Activities in Denver, Colorado
Colorado is famous for its leisure activities – kayaking, canoeing, mountain climbing, skiing, hiking and many others. As the state capital, Denver is a truly unique American city – blending the urban metropolitan cityscape with the outdoors and serving as an important base for exploring the Colorado mountains.
Summer is generally the best time to visit Denver as winters are often bitterly cold, although the climate is mostly sunny all year round. However, in winter the region becomes popular with skiers and snowboarders from all across the USA and from other countries. The internationally renowned ski resort of Aspen can be easily be reached in a day and provides some of the best ski conditions to be found anywhere in the world.
One of the most popular outdoor activities is the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which hosts regular concerts throughout the season. Famous acts who have performed here recently include Crosby and Depeche Mode. As the heat intensifies during July and August, an excellent way to cool off is to visit one of the 15 outdoor swimming pools in the city. Admission is just $2 for children and $3 for adults and a seasonal pass is available as well ($20 for children and $40 for adults).
Another popular outdoor attraction is Denver Zoo, which provides an excellent family day out in this 80 acre park, comprising of over 4000 animals (admissions prices in 2009 were $7 for children and £12 for adults). However, if you are comfortable with the heat, or you would prefer to visit Denver in the spring or Autumn, the Denver Botanical Gardens are a worthwhile visit. Despite Colorado`s dry climate, the gardens contain over 32,000 species of plants and during the summer months they are open from 9am.
If you would like to travel a bit further, take a trip west on the I70 to see the outstanding views of the summits of the Colorado Rockies. In winter this route can be treacherous so do be careful. A 70 mile journey south on the I25 will take you to the famous tourist attraction, `Garden of the Gods` – a stunning series of red rock formations which are popular during the summer months.
When travelling to Denver, most people suggest that the most convenient and efficient way of getting around is book a car hire which you would pick up from the airport. For car rental Denver airport offers anything from luxury sports cars to large minivan, all at various price ranges. You can also use the skyline service which can take you from the airport to your destination.
