With one of our five offices in Denver, we are excited that the GBTA conference will be held here this year. As you’ve been preparing and packing, we’ve been developing a few Denver guides just for you. Let us show you around town, or at least what you can squeeze in between seminars and other events.
16th Street Mall –
This outdoor pedestrian mall runs up and down 16th Street from Union Station to the north and the Civic Center to the south. Get a feel for Denver restaurants and shops, surrounded by gold rush era buildings. There is a free mall ride that continually transports pedestrians up and down the strip. Get on and off as you please, it stops at every corner.
Here are a few of our favorite spots on 16th Street
Union Station – This 100-year old landmark is a still an active transportation hub, but recently remodeled to entertain. Now it holds many local restaurants, stores and a hotel. A truly great place to enjoy Denver and people watch.
1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
http://unionstationindenver.com/
Tattered Cover Bookstore – A three-story locally owned bookstore. A must for your visit to 16th street.
1628 16th St, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.tatteredcover.com/
Illegal Petes – Perfect for a quick but hearty meal on 16th Street. Local to Colorado and quickly gaining popularity. Similar to Chipotle (which is also a CO native restaurant), they are known for their cilantro-lime rice and tasty everything.
1530 16th St #101, Denver, CO 80202
http://illegalpetes.com/
Yard House – High-end sports bar with American fare and large draft list.
1555 Court Pl, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.yardhouse.com/home
Brown Palace Hotel – Since opening in 1892, the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has never closed their doors. Renowned for it’s architecture and beauty, it is frequently visited by presidents, prime ministers and celebrities. Though a hotel and spa, it has six restaurants and bars for different occasions. Ellyngton’s provides fine dining lunch, dinner or brunch. Or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, including Devonshire cream shipped in from England. Reservations are recommended. At the very least, step in and look around if you can.
321 17th St, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.brownpalace.com/
Larimer Square
Just off 16th Street Mall and four blocks north of the Convention Center is Larimer Square. This center and street focuses on providing chef-driven restaurants rather than tourist traps. You can’t go wrong on this street, but here are a few of our favorites.
Roija – This mediterranean inspired restaurant is one of the top attractions. The owner, Jennifer Jasinski, has been on Top Chef Masters and a winner of the James Beard Award.
Larimer Square, 1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.riojadenver.com/
ComedyWorks – Looking for a few laughs? Check out Denver’s premier stand-up comedy club.
1226 15th St, Denver, CO 80202
https://www.comedyworks.com/
Like other capital cities, Denver is always pulsing with new restaurants, flavors and trends. There’s always something new popping up. Fortunately for you, the Denver Convention Center is right in the middle of the action. Have questions or staying in a different area of Denver? Use the comments below. We are happy to show you around town!
