Top of the Town 2020: Shopping
The perfect dining set, earrings, summer read, and 12 more ways to spend splendidly in the Mile High City.
Top of the Town 2020: Culture & Nightlife
From books and songs to cocktails and wine, the creative spirit courses through these 14 winners.
Top of the Town 2020: Dining
Whether they’re traditional, experimental, or confectional, every one of our 29 culinary winners are exceptional.
Reasons to Love Denver: Frontline Workers
With much of the city at home during the pandemic, essential employees entered an uncertain world to make our food, deliver our packages, and protect our most vulnerable. We asked three such workers to tell us about how their lives have changed.
Reasons to Love Denver: The Simple Things
COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter protests have given us the chance to prove that altruism does still exist, as evidenced by these incidents of kindness.
Reasons to Love Denver: Our Young People
State Representative Leslie Herod on the generation that may be able to transform this moment into a movement.
Reasons to Love Denver: Raised Fists
Denver photographer Kevin Mohatt captures both the peace and willingness to fight for change during the demonstrations.
Reasons to Love Denver: Denver’s Teachers
Educators took a crash course in online learning to save the school year (and parents’ sanity) during the pandemic.
Reasons to Love Denver: The Front Range Dining Scene
Even though their tables were empty, culinary workers still found ways to provide sustenance.
Reasons to Love Denver: Community Organizers
New Hope Baptist Church pastor Quincy “Rev Q” Shannon shares insights he gleaned from helping organize Denver’s downtown protests.
Reasons to Love Denver: The Black Lives Matter Protesters
Some names we knew, others we didn’t. But during the Black Lives Matter protests, they all told Denver what it needed to hear.
Reasons to Love Denver: Our Entertainers
Whether they were making us laugh or filling our hearts, the shows went on despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reasons to Love Denver: Mayor Michael Hancock
The man tasked with leading police reform in Denver knows of what he speaks.
Q&A: Lindsey Horan Reflects On the Loss of the Olympics This Month
COVID-19 canceled some of the biggest events on the globe-trotting soccer star’s calendar. While she was stuck at home this spring, we chatted with her about what it was like playing the waiting game.
How Green Guru Led the Upcycling Revolution
The Boulder company has been turning discarded sleeping bags, bike tubes, and more into cool new gear for 15 years.
The World’s Biggest Daredevils Need Help Facing Their Trauma
A new documentary from the Climbing Grief Fund is raising awareness to help guide adventurers through despair.
The World’s Largest Firefighting Plane Is Based in Colorado
We gathered the stats to show you how the Colorado Springs-based Global SuperTanker helps put out wildfires everywhere from the Amazon to California.
What Will We Do?
A letter from the editor of 5280‘s July 2020 issue.
How Colorado Concert Venues Plan to Make a Comeback
If live shows return this summer, they could look very different.
5 Movies By Colorado Filmmakers To Watch Now
Visiting movie theaters may be on pause, but you can still keep up with the latest shorts, documentaries, and comedies made by Coloradans.
Ask an Adventurer: How to Have a Safe, Socially Distanced Summer
This summer is probably a little different than most. These experts can help you make the most of it.
Sherry’s Soda Shoppe Sells Frozen Comfort by the Scoop
Pistachio and vegan peanut butter Oreo are among the flavors you can get at Joshua Pollack’s new 1950s-style soda fountain.
Reasons to Love Denver: Governor Jared Polis
His empathy carried us through the early days of the pandemic. But we’ll need an even greater show of compassion to heal our fractured communities.
The Best Barbecue Joints In and Around Denver
These 10 meaty spots are leading the Front Range smoke scene.
Is Colorado’s Inmate Wildland Firefighter Program Working?
A unique Colorado prison program puts inmates on wildland fire lines. But they often can’t use their firefighting skills after they’re released.
Should Coloradans Say Yes to the Gray Wolf This November?
This November, Centennial State voters will have a historic opportunity to decide if the state should bring gray wolves back to Colorado.
Denver Has a Drinking Problem
Roughly 27 percent of Denverites say they binge drink regularly. That opens us up to a host of health concerns that most people don’t think about when they order just one more.
Cookbook Review: Frasca’s Friuli Food and Wine
The hybrid tome is part cookbook, part wine guide, and part travelogue.
5 Weird Alien Sightings in Colorado
We judge the veracity and terror level of some of the state’s best-known extraterrestrial encounters.
An Update on COVID-19 Treatments Being Researched in Colorado
Colorado-based clinical trials for COVID-19 treatment have taken place at a blistering pace. We caught up with experts from UCHealth, Centura, and Kaiser to get the latest.
Meet Adri Norris, One of the Artists Behind Denver’s Black Lives Matter Street Mural
Adri Norris uses art to shed light on the women history has forgotten.
Tocabe Preparing To Launch A Prepared Meal, Pantry Box Delivery Program
Every order will support the fast-casual restaurant’s mission to give back to American Indian communities.
Where to Find Patio Dining In and Around Denver
A living list of open-air seating options, for your al fresco eating and drinking pleasure.
RTD May Not Return to Normal—Is That a Good Thing?
RTD needs a reboot, and information from past pandemics and our new routines might help the agency plan for that.
Many Denver Restaurants Are Still Waiting for Approval to Expand Outdoor Seating
Despite the city’s promise to streamline the process, frustrated owners report complex paperwork and long wait times.
Get Out of Dodge: 5 Places to Park Your RV This Summer
Ready to escape your house but not quite comfortable staying at a hotel? Gas up your RV (or hook a teardrop trailer to your car) and road trip to one of these not-so-distant locales.
Rehiring Employees Can Present A Challenge for Local Restaurants
Some owners and operators say laid-off workers are eager to return, while others are struggling to attract staff who earn more through government benefits.
Denver Police Department’s History of Officer-Involved Shootings
The killing of George Floyd might have happened in Minneapolis, but the Denver Police Department has its own legacy of racism and violence toward people of color.
Farmers’ Market Initiative Supplies Child Care Centers with Fresh Produce
Boulder County Farmers Market’s food access program helps kids eat more fruits and veggies at school and educates them about the importance of nutrition.
Primary Primer: Where John Hickenlooper and Andrew Romanoff Disagree
A political cheat sheet breaking down the issues on which the two candidates diverge.
Museums and More: 9 Denver Cultural Institutions Reopening Right Now
From art museums to the zoo, we explain how and when to book visits at some of our favorite cultural and historic institutions as the Mile High City slowly reopens.
How Multitalented Craftswoman Christina Graziano Finds Inspiration
The founder of Denver’s Blade & Knoll transforms wood, metal, and even horsehair into sculptural home decor.
Jamaican Mini Grill and International Jerk Market Opens in Lakewood
The new offshoot of Jamaican Grill serves flavor-packed fare inside of a market stocked with imported spices and pantry items.
Spice Trade Brewery & Kitchen Brings Big Flavors to Greenwood Village
The brewery, which opened June 4, pairs beers infused with ingredients like sumac and hibiscus with a globally-inspired street food menu.
We Tested Kokopelli’s New XPD Adventure Packraft
The single-person raft celebrates ease-of-use—even for novice boaters.
Dearfield: The Story of Colorado’s Historic All-Black Settlement
Learn more about the homesteading community and its founder, Oliver Toussaint Jackson.
One Black Female Sommelier’s Take On The Wine Biz In Denver
The Wine Suite’s Maia Parish speaks out about her experience in the beverage industry.
This New Bohemian Boutique on Tennyson Celebrates Femininity and Individuality
Lariat, a new brick and mortar in Berkeley, boasts bohemian attire with a touch of black empowerment.
Max Martinez Reflects on Denver’s Fashion Scene During the Pandemic
Plus, how you can support families in need by donating to MAX.
How the Paycheck Protection Program Failed A Black-Owned Denver Business
Risë Jones, owner of TeaLee’s Teahouse and Bookstore, will reopen her shop on July 1 despite failing to access government funding from grants or loans.
Gov. Polis Warns of COVID-19 Making a Comeback in Colorado
While Colorado is better off than many states, Polis fears new outbreaks—like a recent one among students in Boulder—will erupt if we’re not careful.
Colorado DACA Recipients Celebrate U.S. Supreme Court Decision
After years of anxiety, Colorado’s Dreamers breathe a big (although temporary) sigh of relief.
10 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth in Colorado and Beyond
A roundup of local and national events to help you honor, celebrate, and learn more about Juneteenth.
Coronavirus Shutters Meadowlark Kitchen
Co-owner Casey Karns says the restaurant industry’s razor-thin margins weren’t enough to save the RiNo burger spot, which has been closed since mid-March.
You’ll Now Need a Hunting or Fishing License to Access State Wildlife Areas
Starting July 1, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is requiring visitors to Colorado’s State Wildlife Areas to carry a valid hunting or fishing license—even if they’re not hunters or anglers. We explain why.
Restaurants Struggle Even After Reopening for Dine-In Service
Owners cite challenges with gaining approval for expanded outdoor seating and may consider closing permanently under the current conditions, according to a Colorado Restaurant Association survey.
7 Things to Do With Dad Around Colorado This Father’s Day Weekend
From open-air cinema to re-opened recreation spots, there are plenty of ways to get out and spend some quality time with your pops.
Where to Dine In or Pick Up A Meal for Father’s Day
Whether your dad is hankering for a pig roast extravaganza or a takeout fried chicken supper, these local independent spots have the perfect edible gifts in store.
The STAR Van Offers an Alternative to Police
Caring for Denver’s STAR van sends a paramedic and clinician to non-criminal 911 calls. The goal is to avoid unnecessary officer involvement—and to find gaps in Denver’s support systems.
Bar Helix Transforms Into Cabana X for the Summer
Owner Kendra Anderson wants to take you on vacation, without ever having to leave Larimer Street.
Shaped By COVID-19: Barre Forte’s All-Body, Quivery Muscle–Making At-Home Workout
This 60-minute workout will literally leave you shaking in your grippy socks.
Justin Brunson Closes Old Major and Masterpiece Deli
As Brunson moves on to focus on his River Bear American Meats brand, good friend Amos Watts, formerly the executive chef at Boulder’s Corrida, will take over the Highland space for his own restaurant.
You’ll Love This Home Photographer’s Pivot to Gorgeous Still Lifes
Denver-based professional photographer—and frequent 5280 Home contributor—Emily Minton Redfield shares the creative outlet that has kept her busy behind the lens during this stay-at-home season.
Ska Street Brewstillery Brings the Best of Two Colorado Brands to Boulder
The new restaurant and bar, an integration of Durango’s Ska Brewing Co. and Palisade’s Peach Street Distillers, is open for dine-in service.
SoulNia’s Vegetarian Soul Food Comes With A Side Of History
The mission-driven catering company will host a pop-up dinner at the Bindery on June 22.
Why Tree Hammocking Is Not Allowed in Denver’s Parks
Stringing up a nylon hammock is popular in Denver, but it can have a negative impact on the health of trees.
Q&A: Denver Mayor Michael Hancock
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock on law enforcement reforms—those already enacted and measures that are still on the way.
My Kings Ice Cream Opens With 12 Rotating Flavors, Cereal Milkshakes
Young entrepreneur Le’Day Grant serves Magill’s ice cream in a cheery space on Colorado Boulevard.
Colorado General Assembly Approves Sweeping Police Reform Bill
The legislation aims to hold law enforcement more liable for misconduct.
How 2 Mountain Town Breweries Are Coping During the Pandemic
Owners share challenges, including the loss of tourism and the complexities of reopening with new health and safety regulations in place.
Inside RTD’s Decision to Cut Bus & Train Service During Denver’s Protests
When protests erupted downtown two weeks ago, RTD had a tough call on its hands. Here’s how its leaders made the decision to halt service—and how vulnerable communities were impacted.
5 Things That Have Changed Amid Protests in Denver
Demonstrations in the Mile High City have already led to sweeping law enforcement reforms—and more are on the way.
Are Ghost Kitchens the Future of Restaurants in Colorado?
ChefReady and NextBite Brands are helping restaurateurs and chefs bring delivery-only fare to the masses.
The Renaissance of Drive-in Movie Theaters in Colorado
Fort Collins’ Holiday Twin has been a summer institution since the 1960s, but it’s one of many drive-ins across the country experiencing a fresh surge of popularity during the pandemic.
How to Up Your Grill Game This Summer
Chef and meat maestro Justin Brunson shares advice—and a few recipes—to improve your grill skills.
From Sunrise to Sunset, 5 Perfect Denver Walks
Strike out, slow down, and discover some of Denver’s best walks.
3 Denver Bike Rides You Should Try This Summer
Regardless of your ability level, we’ve mapped out a ride for you.
Fit In A Workout—Even With Your Kids In Tow
Summer camp closures may have you playing counselor, but you workout routine doesn’t have to suffer. Compass Fitness co-owner Heather Harrington shares a circuit you can do while watching your children.
5 Ways to Stay Cool Without a Pool
It’s hot, and it’s going to get hotter. Colorado might be landlocked, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat this summer.
7 Stay-At-Home Getaways Perfect for Summer
How to recreate your favorite festival, camp, or art show—at home.
Colorado’s First Sweetgreen Opens in Cherry Creek Today
The popular fast-casual salad joint will open two more outposts—one near Union Station and another in Boulder—in the coming months.
Pandemic Shutters The Med, Brasserie Ten Ten, and Via Perla
Boulder’s happy hour scene may never be the same again.
Activism and Faith Intersect at Vigil for George Floyd
Denver’s demonstrations against police brutality struck a more reverential tone on the night of Floyd’s funeral service.
Most Of Your Books Were Written By White People
“Decolonizing your bookshelf” with these Colorado authors can help fix that.
Hot Property: Ella CityHomes Debuts a Fresh Take on Urban Living
Luxurious new townhomes by OZ Architecture bring split-level style and sky-high views to the 9th & Colorado district.
Dana Rodriguez Stars In A Chefstreams Cooking Class On Sunday
The national program will donate all profits in June to the National Bail Out, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and Black Lives Matter.
Bramble & Bine Personalizes Glassware and Craft Beer For Your Next Celebration
The new Fort Collins company is ready for business whenever large-scale events are safe again.
Shaped by COVID-19: AKT’s At-Home Workout
Dance like no one is watching (because they aren’t) with this fun, lung-burning routine from AKT Cherry Creek.
Here’s How a Powerful and Rare Derecho Ripped Across Colorado
On Saturday afternoon we saw a derecho—a large and fast-moving line of storms that produced damaging winds across the state.
Canceled Season and Layoffs: What’s Next for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts?
Concerns over COVID-19 continue to shake the artistic community as Denver’s largest theater organization cancels dozens of shows and cuts half of its staff.
Q&A: DPS Board Member and Protest Organizer Tay Anderson
“Where we’re at right now is frustration. We shouldn’t have to be here.”
Faces From the Black Lives Matter Protests
Six Coloradans explain why they’re participating in mass demonstrations in downtown Denver against police brutality.
Photo Essay: Denver’s Touchstone Moment
Photographer Kevin Mohatt captures the intensity and peaceful power of the Black Lives Matter protests in Denver.
Denver’s Real Estate Market Heats Up as Restrictions Lift and Businesses Reopen
The market is picking up serious steam as the impact of COVID-19 eases, but listings are still down from where they were at this point in 2019.
Races Are Canceled but (Most) Runners Aren’t Slowing Down
Despite a season of canceled and postponed races, many Colorado runners are still logging miles. For some, though, it’s hard to find motivation without a true race date on the calendar.
Colorado DACA Recipients Face Uncertainty While Waiting for Supreme Court Ruling
Over 14,000 Coloradans who are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients wait for a Supreme Court decision regarding President Trump’s recession of the program to decide their fate.
Quench Your Thirst with Local Belgian-Style Beers
These six Front Range spots are serving exceptional suds, from saisons to lambics, inspired by the brewing traditions of Belgium.
Two New Doughnut Spots Bring Sweet Relief to Denver
Pandemic Doughnuts launched in mid-March and the Doughnut Club opens today.
8 Free Things to Do (Safely) in Denver This June
From living-room swing dancing to live music brought to your backyard, Denver’s got you covered for kicking off your summer (mostly) at home.
Mayor Michael Hancock Speaks at George Floyd Protest
Mayor Hancock asked protestors to remain involved after the demonstrations, while an aide promised “cops are going to start getting fired.”
Celebrate National Doughnut Day With This Chocolate Doughnut Hole Recipe
Berkeley Donuts, located inside Hops & Pie, makes the potato doughnuts you didn’t know you were craving—and you can make them at home, too.
What Local Food Halls Will Look Like This Summer
Expanded open-air seating and pop-up outdoor food vendors are among the ways social spaces are adapting to the state’s new health and safety guidelines.
The Taxi Campus Is Expanding With Kabin, a New Apartment Building
The 28-acre, mixed-use RiNo development marks its 20th year with the addition of a 194-unit residential building set to open in August.
Nest Cafe & Bar Opens Inside Nurture Marketplace
The wellness-forward restaurant opened for dine-in service this week, offering nourishing fare including baked goods, tartines, salads, broths, drinks, and more.
Colorado Democrats Announce a New Bill To Hold Law Enforcement More Accountable
As mass demonstrations against police brutality continue throughout America, a group of Centennial State lawmakers has put forth a set of legislative solutions.
Why Hot and Dry Summer Days in Colorado Feel So Good
Colorado is about to get a stretch of weather with temps in the high 80s and mid 90s. It’ll be hot, but here’s why we’re better off than many regions of the country.
Small Rally in Castle Rock Opens Dialogue on Race, but Not Without Tensions
Law enforcement officers and residents of the Douglas County community gather in the wake of nationwide protests against police violence against black residents.
Flavor-Packed Broths Are the Draw at the New Chimera Ramen
Edwin Zoe’s Boulder ramen restaurant is splitting into two concepts, one devoted to handmade Japanese noodle soups and the other to pho and bánh mì.
A Summer Without Big Events Leaves Local Caterers Struggling
Selling frozen family meals and party kits are ways catering companies are staying in business during the pandemic.
Finding “Frontline Mike”: Two Strangers Share a Moment of Grace During the Protests
When a protester found herself temporarily blind and wracked with pain after being pepper sprayed during the George Floyd demonstrations, a stranger came to her rescue. The morning after, she set out to find the mysterious “Frontline Mike.”
Denver’s Fifth Night of Protests Leaves a Powerful and Peaceful Message
“Denver can be an example for the whole country,” said one protester.
A List of the Black Owners and Chefs Leading the Front Range Culinary Scene
If you want to support Black-led food and beverage businesses in Colorado, here is a resource to get you started.
COVID-19 is Stressing Colorado’s Child Welfare System
Caring for the Centennial State’s most vulnerable youth is more challenging than ever before. Here’s why—and a few ways you can help.
Where to Eat Near Colorado National Monument
While Mesa County restaurants were allowed to open to eat-in diners (at 30 percent capacity) in early May, most places are sticking with to-go orders. Here, a breakdown of some of our favorite close-to-Colorado-National-Monument spots.
Local Know-How
The beta you need for a successful monument adventure.
Backcountry Must-Do: Liberty Cap
Chronicling the pleasures—and pain—of an overnight backpacking trip along the Liberty Cap Trail, a trek that offers gorgeous canyon and valley views and none of the crowds.
How to Identify Common Flora at Colorado National Monument
Get to know the hardy plants that manage to eke out an existence in CNM’s arid environment.
3 Ways to Capture CNM’s Magnificent Displays
From easels to iPhones, here’s how you can capture the beauty of Colorado National Monument.
Quintessential Nearby Adventures
Trekking excursions for fossil-hunting families and hardcore hikers are just some of the accessible adventures from Colorado National Monument.
How It Got There: Independence Monument
The story behind Colorado National Monument’s largest monolith.
Stone Stories: Untangling CNM’s Geology
CNM’s rock layers present a pictorial history of our planet. Use this Bill Nye–style guide to discern the difference between Jurassic (old) and Triassic (really old) stone—and to learn where to see the ancient layers.
CNM’s Hiking Trail Trifecta
Colorado National Monument has more than 45 miles of trails—consider these three moderate treks its Triple Crown.
The Two-Hour Tour: Rim Rock Drive
If you can only do one thing, tour the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive by car or bike.
Meet the Man Who Made the Monument
How John Otto almost single-handedly ensured the landscape he loved became part of the National Park Service.
Put These 4 Books on Your Summer Reading List
New books from Colorado authors that will keep you flipping pages, whether you make it to a seaside perch or not.
Pack These 5 Colorado-Made Goodies for Your Next Picnic
Don’t forget a blanket, Bluetooth speaker, and these local goods for an ideal open-air dining experience.
5 Coronavirus-Friendly Dates
While you might not be able to go to a movie or sip beers at Coors Field, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the season with your summer boo.
How to Undergo a Digital Detox This Summer
Tracy Markle of Boulder’s Digital Media Treatment and Education Center shares pointers on how to ditch your devices.
Mix Up 3 Tropical Cocktails From Local Pros
Your beach vacation may be on hold, but thanks to these Denver mixology masters, your Tiki drink is just a few ingredients away.
24 Ways to Finally (Finally!) Relax This Summer
Check off these indulgences as you unwind the Colorado way.
Pluck Your Summer Produce at a U-Pick Farm
Then use up your haul with a four-ingredient recipe for raspberry lemon verbena jam from Sabā Parsa of Boulder’s Sabā Jam.
Try Your Hand at Plein-Air Painting With These Tips From a Pro
Denver artist and teacher Andrea Slusarski shares her tips for how to capture outdoor scenes—no iPhone necessary.
Quick and Easy Updates to Transform Your Patio
KGA Studio Architects’ Paul Mahony has some strategies to turn your patio (or porch) into the hottest dining spot in town.
Summertime Blues
A letter from the editor of 5280‘s June 2020 issue.
The Evolution of Colorado’s Museums
We track key moments in the changing relationship between curators and Native American tribes.
Denver Prepares to Sign Scooter and E-Bike Companies to a Long-Term License
Will the city’s plan leave low-income riders behind?
