The thriving cosmopolitan hub of Denver, Colorado, fuses rich history, diverse culture, and outdoor adventure, all set against the majestic Rocky Mountains. Once a humble mining town during the Gold Rush, Denver’s urban spirit exemplifies the American West.

Denver’s creative pulse beats with dozens and dozens of worthy museums (chief among them the outstanding Denver Art Museum), galleries, and performance venues. The dramatic Red Rocks amphitheater is just outside of town. The historic LoDo (Lower Downtown) district, with its red-brick buildings, serves as a constant reminder of Denver’s pioneering roots. The former warehouses and saloons now house trendy boutiques, eateries, and art galleries. Wander trendy RiNo (River North) too. Pop into microbreweries; walk/bike the paths that thread around the city.

The city’s modern architecture and booming industries highlight its progressive nature. Its major professional sports teams — The Rockies, Broncos, Nuggets, and more — speak to another passion. Denver offers a pretty dynamic and unique blend of historic and modern, urban and natural. — Kim Grant