10 Unique Historical Facts About Colorado

When being a Denver native, you come to learn facts and secrets about Colorado that you otherwise wouldn’t know as just a tourist. But even being born and raised in Beautiful Colorado, there are unique traits of this incredible state that are typically unknown. Below are 10 facts that are unique and interesting to note about Colorado that make Colorado even more special than it already is. If you’re a Denver Native but have yet to truly and thoroughly explore the depths of Colorado, we recommend taking a few weekends out of your routine and take a trip around the state to the unique cities listed below. 

If you’re contemplating whether or not moving to Colorado is the next step for you, take a trip out here and see for yourself whether or not this incredible state suits your needs. If you’re in need of an agent that can show you the neighborhoods that you’d be interested in seeing, then we recommend contacting a local Colorado Flat Fee Realtor that can take you around and demonstrate what it would be like to live in Colorado. Now, take a look below to discover 10 unique historical facts about Colorado that you’ve most likely never heard. 

Denver Lays Claim to the Invention of the Cheeseburger

According to The Gazette, the trademark for the name Cheeseburger was awarded on March 5, 1935 to Louis Ballast. His restaurant was located at 2776 North Speer Blvd. 

The Highest Suspension Bridge in the World Is Over the Royal Gorge

If you’ve yet to visit the Royal Gorge for a day trip, we recommend the drive. The Royal Gorge Bridge spans the Arkansas River at a height of 1,053 feet. You can also walk, drive, and until recently, bungee jump off the bridge. 

Leadville Sits at 10,152 feet, Making It The Highest City in the U.S.

Something incredible to mention to your family and friends outside of Colorado that have never visited a city at such a high and incredible elevation. 

Pikes Peak Cog Railway Is the Highest Railway Train in the World

Pikes Peak is not only known for this fascinating train in the middle of the mountains, but also for the breath-taking views you experience when hiking in this area. 

The World’s Largest Natural Hot Springs Pool Is Located in Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is a special treat Colorado Natives and world travelers alike thoroughly enjoy visiting throughout the year. Located 45 minutes from Aspen, Colorado, this two-block long pool is not only rich in nutrient minerals to soak into your skin and heal your aches and pains, but is also buried in history. Located across the street from the historic Hotel Colorado, a favorite stop of former president Teddy Roosevelt. 

Colfax Avenue in Denver is the Longest Continuous Street in America

At 26.5 miles long, Colfax Avenue boasts a heavy commercial street with some of Denver’s most loved restaurants and cafes, book stores and local shops, and most visited recreational parks and music venues. 

You can Be in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah All At the Same Time

Colorado’s southwest corner borders Arizona, New Mexico and Utah and is the only place in America where the corners of four states meet. 

The Eisenhower Tunnel is the Highest Auto Tunnel in the World

If you’ve driven deep West into the mountains at any point during your time in Colorado, then you’ve definitely experienced the cool effect of driving through directly through the depths of a grand Rocky Mountain. 

Colorado is the Only in History to Turn Down the Olympics

Due to the high risk and fear of cost, pollution and a drastic population boom, state voters chose not to host the 1976 Winter Olympics. 

The Park Theatre in Estes Park Was the State’s First Place to Catch a Movie

The Park Theatre is the oldest movie theatre in Colorado and among the oldest worldwide with being built in 1913. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the rich history of Colorado, we encourage you to visit this hidden gem state and consider the potential of uprooting your life here!

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What is Hygge?

If you have any sort of interest in interior design or home decor, then you’re bound to have heard the Danish word “Hygge”, pronounced “hoo-ga”, circling around the world of home design and aesthetics. If you’ve never heard it before, you’re in for a cozy treat once you fully understand the focus and intention Hygge has. To begin, here is what we’ve found to be the closest definition of Hygge, a concept originating from Denmark. 

Hygge has no specific word for translation, but instead is translated as a concept; a “single word that encompasses a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being through enjoying the simple things in life,” according to CountryLiving Magazine. Hygge is an important part of being Danish and is considered to be “a defining feature of our cultural identity and an integral part of the national DNA,” according to Meik Wiking, the CEO of The Happiness Institute. This lovely mindset with the Dane’s obsession with all things comfy and cozy, is credited as one of the reasons why Denmark is always rated at the top of the list of the world’s happiest countries. Fortunately, news has spread fast about the Dane’s secret to happiness, and the world is taking it all in and starting to incorporate the benefits of Hygge into their everyday lifestyle, home decor, and way of life. If your current home isn’t sufficient to bring you the joy of Hygge like you’re expecting, contact your local Denver Flat Fee Realtor to get the best support on starting your search for a new home. Continue reading below if you’d like a better understanding of the history, what it means to live a hygge life, and what isn’t hygge. 

History 

Hygge promotes the idea of a warm and cozy lifestyle, a concept that part of Danish culture since the early 1800s when the word first appeared in the written language. Essentially, it’s derived from a Norwegian word for “well-being”, similar to the German concept of gemütlichkeit, and the Dutch idea of gezelligheid. By 2017, the US had finally caught-up with the cozy craze and the concept of hygge began to be written and covered in publications like The New York Times and The New Yorker. It caught fire on social media and spread rapidly on Pinterest.“Pinterest 

predicted it would be one of the hottest home decor trends of 2017 after activity on the sit about “hygge” increased 285 percent at the end of 2016.” 

What Does It Mean To You?

Here are a few items that are considered to be hygge-like and that you can incorporate into your home: 

• Candles

• Fireplaces

• Throw Blankets

• Homemade sweets, comfort food, and hot drinks

What Isn’t Hygge You May Ask?

Danes are especially specific on what they consider Hygge and what they don’t. Here is a quick list of items and activities that you wouldn’t typically see a Dane obsessing over: 

• Staring at your phone all day

• Hibernating indoors alone all winter

• Strict rules

• Purchasing products just to be on-trend

If you’re interested in how you can indulge in the secrets of living a Hygge life, then we recommend picking up some light reading. “The Little Book of Hygge” Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking, CEO of The Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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Top 5 Must-See Mountain Towns

When was the last time you drove into the mountains for a day trip or weekend escape? Well if you haven’t for a while, or have yet to experience the majestic Rocky Mountains, then I encourage you to gather your gear and head up as soon as you can to any of these 5 Must-See Mountain Towns. Once you’ve returned back to Denver, make sure to contact your local Flat Fee Realtor for any online Real Estate Services or any additional information on property that you’re interested in seeing. 

Breckenridge 

Two hours West on I-70 will take you to one of America’s favorite ski resorts. In the heart of Breckenridge you’ll find Main Street, the historic downtown area where you’ll find shops, restaurants, cafes, and real estate offices stretching across town. Besides the town being known for its fabulous skiing resort, Breckinridg has year-round activities and festivities for couples and families, day trips, and long weekends. If you’re in the Breckenridge area during the winter months, look out for the 30th Anniversary Snow Sculpture Championship. 16 Teams from around the world compete to create the most magnificent ice sculptors using hand-carved 20-ton blocks of snow. There are five US based teams and 11 other International Teams: Argentina, China, Ecuador, France-Normandie, Germany, Great Britain, India, Mexico, Mongolia, Switzerland, and Turkey, 

Vail

2.5 hours outside of Denver and 30 minutes passed Breckenridge is the winter wonderland city. With over 1,100 acres of open space and 5,289 acres of skiable land, Vail is an open landscape filled with luxurious shopping, high-end international restaurants, and million dollar residential and commercial Real Estate. If you’re lucky enough to own property up here, then you’ll have an opportunity to experience the luxurious with it. Amidst wandering around Vail Village and Lionshead, grab some lunch at some of Vail’s finest restaurants. If you’re looking for a family friendly restaurant that offers a bit of a different experience, then stop into Bol, a full restaurant and bar with 10 bowling lanes. With over 400 bottles of wine in the cellar, Duck Poutine, Chicken and Biscuits, and Clam Strips, the food is hardly an afterthought. Among the 5,000 residents that live in Vail year-round, nearly 1.5 million people visit Vail each year. Therefore, Vail is a major hub for international real estate and real estate agencies. If you’re interested in exploring potential properties in Vail, contact your Flat Fee Real Estate Broker in Denver to get the latest updates on available properties in the Vail or Denver area. 

Aspen

One of the most impressive mountain towns in Colorado is Aspen. At an elevation of 8,000 ft, whether you’re in search of beautiful mountain passes or award winning restaurants, Aspen is an international, world-renowned travel destination that boasts over 1.6 million visitors per year. If you’re looking to experience an awe-inspiring view, do not miss out in taking the trip up to Maroon Bells. Surrounded by 14,000 foot peaks and fields of wildflowers, this incredible landscape is home to the most photographed peaks in North America. At Maroon Bells, you’ll see a mirror-like lake and a painting-like landscape. The lake and endless hiking trails are accessible by foot, car, or bus. Once you’ve worked up at appetite, head back into the city center where you’ll have access to a fabulous variety of restaurants and cafes. Think about stopping by Element 47, tucked inside The Little Nell, a Five-Star and Five-Diamond Hotel. The dinner menu consists of savory items like Charred Octopus, Dry-Aged Rohan Duck, Smoked Maitake, and Banana Cream Pie. If you’re interested in learning more about available property in the Aspen area, contact your nearest Flat Fee Realtor. 

Steamboat

A less well-known travel destination for tourists, but a major hub for Coloradans alike, is Steamboat Springs. If you haven’t heard much noise about Steamboat, it’s probably because Coloradans like to keep it a well-kept secret. The name Steamboat Springs stems from the cities two thermal-water attractions-Old Town Hot Springs and Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Both equally delightful, but major differences including: a waterslide and lap lanes in the Old Town Hot Springs, and more of a rustic and secluded experience at Strawberry Park. Once you’ve soaked up all the rich minerals in the thermal pools, take your family up a gondola ride to the top of Mount Werner for lunch with an incredible view of the Steamboat Zipline Adventures. After a day of adventuring, head into Laundry, one of Steamboat’s finest and intimate restaurants that boasts a delicious and adventurous menu. Whether you’re in the mood for Ribeye, Cheese Platters, or Poke, Laundry’s got it all. Interested in moving to a mountain town? Contact your local Flat Fee Realtor to learn more about how you can make the mountains your second home. 

Telluride

Besides Aspen, Telluride must be the second most well-known mountain town internationally. Annually hosting the Sundance Film Festival, Telluride is a hub for international and local residents, skiers and winter enthusiasts, actors and entertainers alike, and sought-after real estate. Whether you’re up for the weekend, or taking time to vacation at your second home in the depths of the mountains, you’re going to enjoy your time spent in Telluride. Set up your day with first shredding some powder at one of the many top-notch mountains: “Prospect Bowl”, “See Forever”, or “Bushwacker” are sure to get your adrenaline pumping and your appetite raging. The buzziest new restaurant in town, There, is bound to not only satisfy you with their $4 pork rillette tostadas or their crispy spicy duck steamed buns, but at 8,750 feet, it’s sure to leave no room for regret. If you’re looking to escape into a winter wonderland of powder, fresh food, and culture, then make sure to mark Telluride down as number one on your list of cities to visit in Colorado. 

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5 Must-Read Real Estate Books for Beginning Investors

Investing in real estate can provide multi-source income while appreciating in value. There is no better tangible asset that can provide you with better financial returns and appreciate year after year than Colorado real estate. You can make money in the form of passive income as well as equity growth from appreciation and paying down your mortgage. Focus first on cash flow return as we know that increased cash flow leads to equity growth. This is a well blended return on your investment portfolio and by reading the books listed below, you will enhance your real estate IQ and fill your bank accounts tastefully.

Are you looking into beginning a career of investing, or are simply interested in dabbling in some projects? Well before you jump right into it, consider taking some time to extensively read into some books from experts in the field. Bigger Pockets, an online real estate investing and educational resource posted a blog listing “10 Absolute Must-Read Real Estate Books for Beginning Investors”, and below we have outlined five of the ten books that are recommended for beginner investors. If you’re interested in learning more about investing, please log on to http://www.biggerpockets.com for more information. 

1. Building Wealth One House at a Time by John Schaub

2. The Book on Investing in Real Estate With No (and Low) Money Down by Brandon Turner

3. What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow by Frank Gallinelli

4. The Book on Flipping Houses by J Scott

5. The Book on Estimating Rehab Costs by J Scott

Contact your Denver Realtor to learn how you can get into investing in real estate today.

Best Vegan Restaurants in Denver

Are you looking to venture into the realm of veganism? Well lucky for you Denver has become a hub for vegan and vegetarian based restaurants. It’s still important to scout out these restaurants a bit since they’re fairly scattered across the city, but once you’ve tried a vegan/vegetarian based restaurant, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried one before. Listed below are five popular vegan/vegetarian restaurants that most Denverites have heard of and are on their list of go-to restaurants for a healthy, and locally sourced meal. 

City, O’ City

This definite local favorite is a must-try in Denver. Located on E. 13th Ave in Capitol Hill, nearly next door to the Denver Capitol Building and Denver Public Library, this trendy and vibrant neighborhood brings along all kinds of crowds to indulge in the many layers of delicious plates of food at City, O’ City. With menu items like Pumpkin Curry Pasta, Cauliflower Chorizo Tacos, and Seitan Wings, and open doors from 7 am to 2am, it’s a happy place for all to come and share in the joy of delightful food with an eclectic ambience. One thing to note is that reservations are only available on weekdays for parties of five or more. Other than that, it’s a first come first serve nature, and you’ll want to get their at an appropriate time to get seated quickly.  

True Food Kitchen 

A true restaurant based on the philosophy that food should make you feel better, not worse is True Food, located in Cherry Creek North only blocks away from Cherry Creek Mall. Dr. Andrew Weil is a renowned physician, doctor of integrative medicine, and the founder of True Food Kitchen. The menu is based on the science of encouraging changes in eating habits to avoid and counteract chronic inflammation, and they do so based on the anti-inflammatory pyramid. With each season brings a new menu that highlights that particular season’s benefit-rich ingredients. Some of the most popular items on their menu include, but are not limited to: Spaghetti Squash Casserole, Unbeetable Burger, and the Kale Guacamole (a personal favorite).   

Watercourse Foods

As one of Denver’s original vegetarian restaurants, Watercourse Foods opened in 1998 in Capitol Hill on 13th Avenue. This scratch kitchen focuses on utilizing local vendors, cultivates an environment of inclusivity, and prides themselves on keeping their menu free of artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, and hydrogenated fats. The name “Watercourse” comes from the philosophy of the “water course way”, essentially meaning to take the path of least harm. Not only is their environment friendly, warm, and inviting, but their food speaks for itself with lovely menu items such as: Wings, Za’atar Eggplant, and White Cheddar Mac.   

Vital Root

“99% vegan by request and 100% gluten free”, Vital Root is on top for being a fantastic destination to fascinate yourself with all the possible vegetable inspired plates on their menu. Located on Tennyson in the Old District of the Highlands, Vital Root ambitiously and perfectly curates a vegetarian based menu that not only brings you joy, but keeps your body feeling at peace and nourished. Whether you’re looking to have a sit down meal and try their Cashew “Queso” Dip, Pad Thai, or even their Pumpkin Spiced Pancakes, or maybe you’re only in the mood for a light drink like their Moon Milk, Glacier Water, or Green Ginger Smoothie, you will enjoy what you are served at Vital Root.   

Root Down: Edible Beats

Root Down is the spunky and quirky sister restaurant of Vital Root, with a total of five restaurants all together under one umbrella of owners and creatives. With being 100% wind-powered, all animal protein as certified humane, and a 6,000 sf organic garden that supplies 20% of their restaurants seasonal herbs and vegetables, what other reason would you need to chow-down on Root Down’s Edible Beats menu? Although this restaurant is not 100% vegan and vegetarian, the menu is still vegetarian focused, with the supplemental choices of protein menu items. With two locations in Colorado-W. 33rd Ave and DIA, this is among one of the most popular restaurants in the chain, and more upscale. A few menu favorites that are a must-try are: Dungeness Crab & Avocado Tacos, Carrot Gnocchi,  and Colombian Arepas.

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New Year's Eve in Denver

Are you looking for last minute New Year’s Eve ideas in the Denver Metro Area? You’ve come to the right place to get an idea of what you can do to celebrate the end of the decade. Whether you’d like a more relaxed or more party atmosphere, we’ve got you covered. Take a look below to find out what you may be doing this New Year’s Eve. 

Fireworks on 16th Street Mall

Do you prefer to stay at home and avoid the loud crows New Years Eve brings out, or have young kids that need to get to bed early, but still want to experience a little bit of the downtown fun? Then grab some coffee or hot chocolate and check out the fireworks display on 16th Street at 9 pm and Midnight. DJ’s will line the streets of 16th Street mall and synch their music to the fireworks show and you get to watch the display across the Denver skyline. 

NYE in the City at the Four Seasons Hotel 

Are you looking to have an extravagant NYE? Look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel to host the Black Tie event of the year. Your ticket includes admission to their Grand Ballroom where a Cirque Theme NYE Ball will entertain guests with colorful-imaginative performances, dance music, Photo Ops, a Balloon Drop, and specialty cocktails. Tickets range from $79-$99. 

La Rumba

Do you want to dance to your favorite latin hits, grub on Argentienian street food, and toast with champagne at midnight? Then consider attending La Rumba’s Salsa Masquerade Ball. DJ ALE will host the night playing the city’s best salsa, bachata, and cumbia. Included with your ticket is a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $10 w/a mask; $15 w/out a mask. 

Midnight Dinner and Dessert

Restaurants across Denver are promoting specials, unique menus, and midnight reservations. While there’s still time, call around and make a reservation at a restaurant with an atmosphere you’d enjoy ringing in the New Year in. Punch Bowl Social, FIRE at the Art Hotel, Corinne at Le Meridien, and may more restaurants available for reservations. 

54thirty

Have you been to Denver’s highest open-air rooftop? Then you better believe this is the place to be to celebrate NYE. 54thirty is located centrally in downtown Denver atop Le Meridien, one of Denver’s newest and coolest hotels. Live music will be performed by multifaceted cellist, producer, and lyricist Jordan Polovina. GA tickets, $25,  and VIP tables are available to reserve ahead of time. GA tickets and VIP tables include a champagne toast with Moët & Chandon at midnight. 

Neighborhood Spotlight: Lodo

Are you moving to Denver or want to get to know your Denver neighborhoods better? This blog post is going to highlight Lodo, Denver’s oldest neighborhood that has quickly become a vibrant hub for restaurants, caffees, shopping and businesses.  If you’ve yet to experience this neighborhood, take the time to explore the hidden streets, popular dining, and fabulous arts and entertainment. 

 Fogo De Chao Brazilian Steakhouse

With locations in over fifty cities around the world, this Brazilian Steakhouse, or also known as churrascaria) is premium dining smack in the middle Lodo. The menu includes a variety of fire-roasted meats carved tableside, as well as a seasonal and traditional salad and side bar, also known as the Harvest Table. If you’re looking to celebrate an event, birthday, or simply a special dining experience, then certainly look into Fogo De Chao for its high quality selection of meats, custom, table served cocktails, and luxurious dining experience.

Union Station

If you’re anywhere near LoDo, then you won’t miss the statuesque Union Station. The original Union Station was built in 1881, burned on March 18 1894 due to a fire, and restructured to the current structure which was built in 1914. Although Union Station was first built as a hub for train transportation, and still is today, it has become much more of a wonder. Today, Union Station is the It-Spot for fabulous bars, fine-dining, shops, and celebrations. Just within Union Station, you’ll find the locally recognized and adored Terminal Bar where you’ll see Coloradons packed inside and outside of the bar; Mercantile Dining & Provision which follows in the footsteps of the award-winning Fruition Restaurant; and Milkbox Ice Creamery, a locally known ice cream shop serving flavors from Little Man Ice Cream available as shakes, malts, sundaes, and boozy shakes. Not only does Union Station host some of Denver’s best food and drinks, but also shops and the Crawford Hotel. 

Coffee Shops

Some of the coziest ways to get to know a new city is by exploring their local coffee shops. Luckily, LoDo, and Denver altogether, has erupted with local coffee shops that give Starbucks a run for their money. Little Owl Coffee for example has been rated as one of “The 21 Best Coffee Shops in America” according to the Thrillist; and you’ll be lucky to grab a seat in this miniature coffee shop. Best for companies of no more than 1-2 people, Little Owl Coffee is known for its delicious custom drinks and cozy atmosphere. Another must-see coffee shop that you definitely won’t miss is The Market at Larimer Square. Known for its historic roots, The Market is located between 14th and 15th street on Larimer Street, the last bastion of Denver’s historic architecture. What initially began as a neighborhood grocery store in the 1970’s eventually transformed into the bakery, deli, coffee and tea shop that is it today. Centrally located on Larimer Street, surrounded by bustling high-end restaurants and shops, this is the coffee shop every Colorado visitor must see. 

Denver Milk Market

Located in the Ballpark neighborhood of LoDo and the historic Dairy Block, the Denver Milk Market is a 16-venue Food Hall run by Colorado chef Frank Bonanno. The Milk Market sits within the Dairy Block, a micro-district of mixed-use office, retail and hospitality development that boasts fifteen shops, nineteen restaurants, seven bars, a luxury coworking space, and a 172-room boutique hotel. And if this wasn’t enough, check out the Milk Market’s calendar of events to see live music performances, unique pop-ups, and a variety of classes. 

Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox   

Are you looking to go somewhere where you can eat delicious, gastrobrothel-inspired food, listen to live music and appreciate boudoir-style decor? Well then, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox is your one-stop shop for a good time. If you’d like to come just for dinner, then consider booking reservations between 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm before the show and crowds begin between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm. If you’re wanting to stay for the show and have dinner, make a reservation and specifically mention you’d like to stay for the show, and ask for a balcony view. Depending on the availability of seats, you’ll have an opportunity to be seated next to the balcony that overlooks the stage on the bottom floor. Once you’re done with dinner, you can grab a drink at one of their two bars and head downstairs to enjoy the show.

Friday Night In Denver

We’ve all been there where the weekend is quickly approaching and we want to experience the city life and do something incredible, yet have trouble thinking of something new and interesting to do. The most enjoyable aspect of living in Denver is that you can almost get any particular experience that you’re looking for. We’ve got sports all year round, winter festivals, art districts, a flood of entertainment and international cuisine. And although staying home, getting cozy and turning on our favorite Netflix series sounds as riveting as it is, I’d like to recommend a few alternative options to the typical weekend night.  

Below are five activities to do on any given Friday night in Denver, whether that be with friends or a love interest that are a bit out of the ordinary routine. 

1. Comedy Works

Comedy Works first opened in 1981 and is ranked among the best as one of the Top 5 stand up-comedy clubs in the country. Frequent acts include, but are not limited to: Rob Schneider, Dave Chapelle, Tom Segura, and many more familiar faces. Not only does Comedy Works host nationally renowned comedians, but also has opportunities for local comedians to give their acts a go. Thick Skin and New Talent Night are two weekly opportunities for locally recognized, and nationally recognized, stand up-comedians to show off their comedic skills. 

Tickets range from $12 to $50, depending on who’s performing. There is a requirement to purchase two items (food and beverage) with your ticket once you’re at the show; something to keep in mind before attending. Nonetheless, this is an excellent option to attend with a group of friends or significant other if you’re looking to have a spontaneous night of laughter and fun.  

2. Speakeasy 

It’s no secret that Denver is a hidden gem that not only has a bursting and growing city scene, but also has hidden features that often must come from word of mouth in order to know of these secret hot spots. Speakeasy’s have easily become more of a go-to hot spot rather than the traditional bar scene; and with a growing population, it’s often more exciting to find a hidden bar that most tourists aren’t aware to avoid the crowds. If you’re looking for a night out where you can mingle with friends or a new date, sip on a few prohibition era curated drinks, and find yourself in a space inspired by alternative themes and eras, then I would highly suggest seeking out a speakeasy. Here are a few speakeasy’s that have historically been raved about by Denver Natives: 

1. Williams and Graham

Located in LoHi, this particular speakeasy is among the most popular to Denver Natives and tourists alike, hidden behind a bookshelf, Williams and Graham have over sixty cocktails that have stood the test of time and a delicious menu of hors d'oeuvres, small plates, entrees and desserts. A must see in Denver. 

1. Green Russel

Although the Green Russel is located on one of the most popular and beautifully lit streets in downtown Denver, it is hidden in plain sight where your eye won’t necessarily spot it immediately. Located on Larimer Street within an alley of restaurants, you must first walk down a flight of stairs to then be greeted by a host that will then either send you to the restaurant, or have you walk through another pair of doors to enter the cave like, green lit speakeasy. 

1. Retrograde

Among the three speakeasy’s that are listed, this one has to be the most creatively hidden among the three. In order to get to Retrograde, you must first enter through Frozen Matter Uptown, an ice cream shop with an abundance of creatively handcrafted ice cream, ice pops and soda. A few of the unique flavors of ice cream being: Apple Cider Sorbet (Vegan), Great Pumpkin, Peppermint, and Milk + Cookies. In order to get to Retrograde, you must simply bypass the ice cream counter and head toward the freezer door. Then turn on the light switch and wait for a member of the staff to greet you. 

3. Wine and Painting

What’s a Friday night without a little artistic energy? If you’re looking to get a little craftsy, or let loose with some paint and wine and create a masterpiece, then you should look no further than to attend a class at Canvas and Cocktails, Painting with a Twist, or any other sip business that you prefer. What you may ask is exactly a sip business? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like. It’s an opportunity to gather your closest friends, family or even coworkers and be guided through painting the night’s featured painting while sipping on beer, wine, cocktails, or champagne. 

4. Attend a Concert 

There is an infinite amount of local concert halls that host a variety of music that is bound to suit any music lovers taste. Locally located in vivacious neighborhoods and spread all across Denver; small or large venue, local or internationally known artists, alternative or rock, Denver has it all. With the diversity of music and music venues means that tickets are largely available, even with short notice. In that case, if you’re looking to explore new music or local artist over your weekend, then it’s recommended to do a bit of research to see what venues around Denver are hosting music artists that please your interests.   

5. Restaurant Tours

If you’re wanting to explore a new city, the best recommendation is to check out their food scene. With Denver’s explosive migration over the last six years, this not only brought people from all over the country, but it also brought a new generation of foodies, which includes a wave of award winning chefs. With that, use one of your weekends to become a food critic and try out a new restaurant. With that being said, it’s not necessary to make a reservation at an ultra expensive restaurant; it’s only encouraged to try a new cuisine or a new restaurant that you have an interest in. 

How To Kickstart The New Year

For how many years have said to yourself that you’re going to accomplish that thing that you’ve always promised yourself you’ll finally do? Whether it’s taking the jump into a new career, making the gym a routine, or finally organizing the overloaded garage, we have all made goals for the New Year that we promise to accomplish, and some of us seldom do. Below are a few tips on not only how to kickstart your dreams and goals for the New Year, but how to also get yourself to actually complete the goal. 

The Goals 

Obviously, before you can start executing your goal, you must come up with the goal itself. Take five, ten, thirty or more minutes to sit down with yourself uninterrupted and truly imagine what you would like to accomplish for the upcoming year. No matter how big or small, a goal is a goal and should be taken seriously and wholeheartedly. 

Plan of Action

 Now that you’ve identified your goals, how do you make it happen? Create a plan of action; essentially, a visual game plan on the steps needed to take to accomplish this goal. Does your goal require you to wake up earlier? To invest money? To invest in yourself? Write down numbered steps on how you are going to accomplish this goal.

Accountability 

How are you going to keep yourself accountable for completing your plan of action? A plan of action is worthless without the will to stick to the timeline of the plan.

Vision 

Keep something in front of you at all times that reminds you of your goal, if not the goal itself. Whether that be a picture in your wallet, a picture on your desk, as your screensaver, daily phone reminders, or even a friend. Never physically lose sight of what you’re dreaming about in order to turn it into your reality. 

Mini Goals

Keep your momentum going by accomplishing mini goals along the way. Every important achievement, whether big or small, should be appreciated and celebrated. And if you plan to embark on a hefty goal that takes time to accomplish, plan out and celebrate mini goals with your plan of action to keep you motivated to keep going until you reach the end of the path to your goals. 

Final Stretch  

Once you’re at the final stretch to your goal, plan out a meaningful reward for yourself to enjoy once you’ve accomplished your goal. Successfully accomplishing New Year goals is no easy task, but once you get to the point where you feel successful, it is most important to appreciate yourself for getting you there.

Family Friendly Winter Ideas

Are you feeling the winter blues or maybe just ran out of ideas of what to do while it’s so cold outside with your family? Well, listed below are a few ideas that are sure to get you and your family feeling like summer during these frigid winter days. Some may require some planning in order to get the right supplies, but everything listed below can be done with little planning in advance, a small budget, and at any time of the day. 

1. Ice Skate 

2. Attend an Ice Sculpture Competition

3. Horse Sleigh Ride 

4. Competitive Game Night with a Special Prize

5. Baking Competition

6. Dance Party / Freeze Dance

7. Build A Fort

8. Bake Dessert and Give to Your Neighbor 

9. Make A Scrapbook

10.  Painting Night

11. Go Sledding with a Thermos of Hot Chocolate 

12. Go to the Library and Pick Out Fun Books to Read with Snacks

13. Rollerskate

14. Jump Street / Indoor Arena

15. Go to the Movies