Garden of the Gods is a must-see for people who are traveling through Colorado! It's in my backyard, and I've been there dozens of times, most often touring groups of kids from work! :) Siamese Twins is a great trail for visitors...it's short, but has incredibly rewarding views! Go early or toward sunset as the park gets extremely crowded in the summer.
I have been obsessed with the Olympics since the age of six. If you visit the training center, you can go on various tours and see the places where many of our U.S. athletes train! Hopefully by the time of the wedding, the Olympic Museum will also be open for visiting! It's slated to open Spring 2020!
This beautiful park has a bird's-eye view of the downtown Denver skyline (if you hike far enough!). The rock formations are absolutely otherworldly, and there are trails that fit all skill levels! This was a serious contender for our ceremony location, but it wasn't quite large enough!
Mike and I went to a concert here on our second date. It was me, Mike, and two of his close friends. When the evening ended, he said he'd leave the ball in my court as to whether or not I wanted to see him again. I didn't wait too long before telling him that yes, I really wanted that to happen! Check their schedule to see if any concerts are taking place, but if not, the restaurant and grounds are still fun to visit!
Mike and I went here on a snowshoeing date where he said, upon leaving, "That would have been a good place to propose!" :) Too, we have driven the road across the park (Trail Ridge Road), and it's absolutely breathtaking! It's a bit off the beaten path, but if you have a full day or two, the trip to the park and to the neighboring town of Estes Park is well worth it! Before driving there, be sure to check road closures and/or parking closures. Often in the summer, it is required to park outside the park and take a shuttle in.
We went on a date here with Mike's boys to watch "Mighty Ducks". It was their first time to Red Rocks, which made it extra special. You might want to check out a concert (or film!) while you're in town! Tickets go quickly, so the sooner you make that decision, the better! This was another serious ceremony contender, but again, too small. (The ceremony would not have been held in the actual amphitheater which seats 10,000, lol.) *If you're staying in town Sunday night, "Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit" is playing at Red Rocks. Their drummer was in the same fraternity with Mike at the University of Alabama.
We've been through this part of Denver multiple times, and are always blown away by the street art and super cool restaurants. If it turns out that we're still not eating inside, be sure to order takeout AND enjoy the incredible murals all over. And get a haircut from my amazing hairstylist cousin, Lindsay!
There is so, so much to see and do here! The cave tour is super informative and fun for the whole family. And the Wind Walker Challenge Course is a great additive, as well as the Bat-a-Pult zipline! I've gone on literally 50+ field trips here, and I still enjoy it!