Colorado’s Mile High City pairs a vibrant urban center with the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Surrounded by the best skiing and hiking spots, Denver is perfect for both the professional and amateur athlete but still close enough to the conveniences and luxuries of an urban destination. Whether you’re traveling for work, play or a little of both, Denver has something fun for everyone — a lively nightlife, expanding culinary scene, professional sports and the great outdoors.

GETTING THERE
Denver International Airport is located 23 miles from downtown. Some taxis offer flat-rate fares to the more popular areas in Denver: $55.57 from the airport to downtown Denver or $61.57 to the Denver Tech Center. The city’s public transportation system, Regional Transportation District, operates routes from 3:30 a.m. until midnight under the frequent SkyRide airport express bus service. Fares range $9–13; exact change is required.

GETTING AROUND
Explore Denver with ease using its wide array of public transportation. RTD operates several bus routes and a light-rail system throughout the city and its suburbs. Purchase a day pass from $6.75 for local travel, or a five-day unlimited pass for $51.25. The Free MallRide operates daily 5 a.m.–1:21 a.m. up and down Denver’s 16th Street Mall. The Free MetroRide, tailored to downtown commuters, operates 6 a.m.–9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Or navigate by foot in one of the most walkable U.S. cities.

9–5
The Colorado Convention Center
Along with a pride in its natural beauty, Denver emphasizes environmental preservation and green initiatives. The Colorado Convention Center is a shining example, making it the place for your sustainable or green meeting or conference. A sustainable program manager on staff ensures environmental commitments are followed to the letter. With a 300-kilowatt solar power system, tons of waste materials recycled and composted annually, and free parking for hybrid vehicles, the center is 83 percent more energy-efficient than buildings of similar size and type.

The Corner Office
The Corner Office, conveniently close to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and the convention center, is a perfect location to host a small gathering of clients and colleagues. The restaurant is upscale and hip, fun and eclectic in its décor and menu. Lighter lunch options range from Korean tacos and Shanghai ramen to soba noodle salad and Hawai’ian burgers, while dinner offers selections like tikka masala and steak frites.

TAG
TAG highlights locally sourced ingredients with an international flair in a style Chef Troy Guard calls continental social food. The lunch menu, served 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m., offers delectable options from Kobe beef sliders and sashimi salad to housemade sausage served alongside duck-fat fries. If you and your associates show up a bit late, the doors remain open between lunch and dinner for TAG’s social hour, with a limited menu and drink specials.

AFTER 5
Art District on Santa Fe
A short walk from Denver’s downtown, the Art District features more than 60 art galleries plus local restaurants and shops. During the art walk the first Friday of each month, take a luxury shuttle around the district as thousands of visitors come out at night to socialize and view the displays. You’ll find interesting shops, classes, exhibits and more to hold your attention the rest of the month.

Denver Botanic Gardens
Open until 9 p.m. each night, there’s plenty of time to visit this top-rated botanical garden when the workday ends. You’ll find 23 acres of perfectly planned landscaping to explore on foot, or rent a bike from Denver’s public bike-sharing program, B-cycle. Stop by the garden’s website to see what will be in bloom during your visit.

Union Station
Union Station is not only a significant piece of city history but also a beautifully designed and refurbished example of architecture filled with shopping, dining and accommodation options. From independent bookstores to fine florists, find the perfect gift or souvenir to take home. Stop by the Terminal Bar and order your drink from the window of the original station’s ticket office.

RESOURCES
For more information, visit denver.org