Denver’s Best New Restaurants 2020
These nine spots opened within the past year—and we can’t get enough of them.
Here’s What $600,000 Buys in Denver’s Housing Market
Denver real estate is hot, with the average single-family home price exceeding $600,000 for the first time this summer. We’ve rounded up three properties that demonstrate what you can get for that price in the Mile High City now.
Zach Heckendorf Is Ready for His Comeback With a New Album
The musician was once considered Denver’s next big thing. Now, a few years after quitting music to spend time finding himself in college, he’s back with a new record, Hawk Talk.
How 4 Side Hustlers Turned Pandemic Hobbies Into Hot Businesses
These hospitality vets tapped into their talents to deliver delicious homemade kimchi, pasta, pickles, and chimichurri to the masses.
It’s Been a Booming Year for Colorado’s New and Used Bike Market
The COVID-19 pandemic has thrust Colorado’s bike market into a frenzy. When will the prices and inventory normalize?
Executive Chef Matthew Vawter Leaving Mercantile Dining & Provision
The talented Colorado native is opening his own restaurant in Breckenridge, where his culinary career began.
Crested Butte Film Festival’s All-Virtual Event Focuses on Works About Race Relations
The festival’s 10-year celebration looks a bit different than planned. But viewers have a chance to stream the event’s 100 films from the comfort of their couches—including a series that focuses on racism and equality.
Raise a Stein at These Upcoming Fall Sipping Events
Celebrate Oktoberfest, learn how to make Halloween-themed cocktails, sip 10-year-old Colorado whiskey, and much more.
Off the Beaten Path: 7 Socially Distanced Trails to Hike This Fall
Fall just might be Colorado’s best hiking season—just ask the crowds who will hit the trails in search of foliage. Find some solitude (and social distance) at these under-appreciated hikes.
CU Boulder Students Placed Under Stay-At-Home Order Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
The order also restricts any gatherings of people between the ages of 18 and 22 and carries significant penalties for CU Boulder students who fail to comply.
Pop-Up Advocacy Kitchen at Brutø Spotlights Chef Stories, Social Issues
The six-week pop-up at Kelly Whitaker’s Dairy Block restaurant aims to spark conversation through intimate meals prepared by chefs including Tajahi Cooke and Modou Jaiteh.
Gregg Deal Wants to Change the Way You Think About Indigenous Art
The Colorado Springs-based artist and activist’s latest work—on display now at the Art Students League of Denver—is a piece of social commentary on how Western culture views Native American people and their art.
The Enchanted Oven In Broomfield Is A Sweet Stop For Japanese Pastries
Pick up matcha tiramisu, custard cream buns, fruit-filled croissants, strawberry vanilla cake, and other gorgeous goodies at owner and pastry pro Maki Fairbanks’ tiny bakery.
Colorado’s Only Black-Owned Bookstore Is Ready for the Revolution
Rick Griffith and Debra Johnson lead Shop at MATTER, Denver’s eclectic bookstore that’s so much more. Are we ready to join them?
How to Finish 14th at the Denver City Amateur Golf Tournament
When Denver golf courses reopened, one golfer took the opportunity to attempt the impossible: fix his crazy.
Will Capping Delivery Service Commissions at 15 Percent Help Restaurants?
A new ordinance, if passed by the Denver City Council in October, prohibits companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats from charging restaurants up to 30 percent per order.
How to Prep Your Patio for Winter
Five ways to make your outdoor living spaces more comfortable and functional when the weather turns cold.
Despite Setbacks, Harvest Season Is Underway at Colorado Wineries
From wildfires to tasting-room closures, 2020 has been a challenging year for local winemakers—but many have adapted their businesses to continue serving you the good stuff.
Where to Eat This Fall and Winter in Steamboat Springs
Highlights include French bistro fare, breakfast cocktails, and wood-fire pizza served in your own private, heated gondola.
7 Colorado-Themed Films to Stream at Home Now
These movies might not be blockbusters, but they can give you an inside look at life in the Centennial State—both true and fictional.
Leaf Peeping and Open-Air Eats in Colorado’s High Country
Admire fall foliage from Breckenridge to Leadville and hit roadside stops along the way using this one-day itinerary.
Restaurants Rally the Vote Initiative Encourages Hospitality Pros to Make Their Voices Heard
The nonpartisan effort, established by local culinary leaders, provides resources to make voting in the 2020 election easier.
You Still Have Time to Pedal Up a Car-Free Mt. Evans
Depending on when the next snowstorm rolls through, your days to slog to the top of America’s highest paved road sans cars are limited.
Colorado Wildfire Smoke Has Been Unprecedented Lately. Get Used to It
A confluence of factors—namely massive fires resulting from climate change—brought dangerous smoke to the Front Range this summer. Here’s why we can expect it to be the new normal.
Tune into the Women’s Wine Guild of Colorado Free Education Forum
The virtual event, which takes place September 21–October 2, features career-advancing workshops, discussions with food and beverage industry pros, and networking opportunities galore.
Is It Safe to Go to Small Concerts in Colorado Right Now?
Live music is happening again across the state. We asked an infectious disease specialist what you should be looking out for should you choose to attend a show.
Why You Should Visit Colorado’s Only International Dark Sky State Park
Jackson Lake State Park is (officially) one of the best places to stargaze in Colorado—and it’s only 90 minutes from Denver.
At Mimosas, Cooking and Community Come From the Heart
Chef Daniel Young is ready to welcome you with a breakfast, lunch, or brunch that will feed your soul.
A Preview of the National Western Center’s Food System Initiatives
The massive new campus, which is scheduled to debut in 2024, will house Denver’s first public market, events centers, educational exhibits, and more.
Colorado’s 2020–21 Ski Season Will Look A Bit Different
Reservation systems, parking limits, and more. Here’s what we know so far about Colorado’s upcoming ski season.
Everything You Need to Know About the New Choice Market
The high-tech local chain’s new East Colfax Avenue location has gas pumps, groceries, Colorado craft beer, free delivery, and more.
Backpacker’s Pantry Meals Are Flying Off Area Shelves
Sales of the Boulder-based company’s gourmet freeze-dried meals, which come in flavors like red beans and rice and risotto with chicken, have never been better.
“The Social Dilemma” Wants You to Delete Facebook
Boulder documentarian Jeff Orlowski’s latest film altered his relationship with technology. Now that it’s debuted on Netflix, it’s poised to change yours, too.
Lyons’ Spirit Hound Distillers Releases Landmark Whiskey
Barrel #1 straight malt whisky comes from a barrel that survived the historic floods of 2013, which ravaged the Boulder County distillery.
How Worried Should Coloradans Be About COVID-19 and Flu Season?
While we can’t predict how severe this flu season will be, local epidemiologists urge citizens to get their flu shots and adhere to COVID-19 public health guidelines to prevent a “twindemic.”
EatDenver’s Harvest Week Features Over 45 Independent Restaurants
The 13th-annual fundraiser kicks off on September 23, offering Colorado-centric menus from a record number of participating restaurants.
Colorado Partners With Google & Apple on a Contact-Tracing Service for COVID-19
By the end of September, Coloradans with Apple or Android devices will be able to exchange anonymous tokens with one another via EN Express, helping public health officials in their contact-tracing efforts.
The Monarchs Are Coming! Here’s Where to Spot Them
The beautiful orange butterflies are on their annual migration south—and now is the time to see them throughout Colorado.
When and Where to Peep Colorado’s Leaves This Season
The unexpected winter weather may dampen our autumn colors this year, but if you’re willing to drive, there’s still plenty of leaf peeping (and adventuring) to be done.
Dine Out, Order Takeout on September 12 for Colorado Restaurant Day
In an official proclamation, Governor Polis encourages Coloradans to support local restaurants, bars, breweries, and other culinary businesses on Saturday.
Heading West? The Assembly in Eagle Is A New Spot Worthy of a Pit Stop
Celebrity chef Kelly Liken helped a local couple open the upscale neighborhood restaurant of their—and your—dreams.
Your Go-To Guide to Colorado’s 2020 Ballot Measures
In addition to the presidential and Senate races, Coloradans will vote on 11 statewide ballot measures this November. From the reintroduction of gray wolves to changes to property taxes and more, here’s what you need to know.
Is It Time to Turn Your Dreams of a Backyard Studio Into a Reality?
We asked the cofounder and creative director of Boulder’s Studio Shed to explain the process—and perks—of adding a prefab shed to your property.
The Denver Pop-Ups You Won’t Want To Miss
Unprecedented times call for savory comfort in the form of fried chicken, over-stuffed sandwiches, and Japanese fare.
Acorn Closes After 7 Years at the Source
The RiNo mainstay is the latest high-end Denver restaurant to shutter due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The Most Unusual Animals You Can Adopt at Colorado Shelters
Not a dog or a cat person? Consider a Japanese quail, a sugar glider, or a ball python.
Blazing Chicken Shack II Offers Soul-Warming Southern Fare
Gumbo, pig ear sandwiches, and smothered pork chops are on the menu at chef Rhonda Banks and wife-partner Leola Gant’s welcoming Park Hill restaurant.
August Was Another Record-Breaking Month for Denver Real Estate
The weather wasn’t the only thing scorching hot in August, as Denver’s average home price again soared to new heights.
What You’ve Read Is True: Snow Could Blow Into Denver by Tuesday
Buckle up! From record heat to snow flurries in a matter of 24–36 hours—some serious weather whiplash is about to take us on a wild ride.
Rising Sun Distillery’s Locally Inspired Sips Hit the High Country
The Denver-based distillery has opened a second location in Frisco, serving seasonal cocktails and street food.
6 Ways to Safely Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in Denver
Don’t let the last days of summer pass you by. Whether you’re staying home or looking to explore Denver, here are six ways to enjoy the holiday weekend.
Taste the Late-Summer Harvest at Grow & Gather in Englewood
Peak-season produce is for sale at the urban farm’s indoor market and on the menu at its on-site restaurant, the Feedery.
Colorado Drowning Deaths Hit a Record High. Here’s How to Stay Safe
This summer has been one of the deadliest ever on Colorado waters.
Denver Arts & Venues Closing for the Remainder of 2020
The agency will shutter Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the rest of its venues while also furloughing its 70 employees.
Big Art Is in Big Demand
All around Denver, large-scale art installations are adding giant personality to residential settings.
Chef Thomas Keller Wants to Cook Dinner with You on September 10
Pick up an ingredient kit at Marczyk Fine Foods, which has teamed up with Niman Ranch and the famous chef to host a virtual hog farmer appreciation fundraising dinner.
August Was One of the Hottest Months in Denver History
Ninety to 100-degree heat, coupled with very dry conditions has sparked intense wildfires and exacerbated drought conditions across the state.
How I Put a Pandemic Pool in My Front Yard
One editor saved her summer (while endangering her marriage) with a kid-friendly above-ground oasis.
Hike We Like: Isabelle Glacier Trail
Visit glistening alpine lakes, fields of columbines, and one of Colorado’s last remaining glaciers along this lesser-known Brainard Lake highlight.
5 New(ish) Restaurants Worth Checking Out in Broomfield
Potato doughnuts, fresh pasta, chicken satay, and brunch cocktails are on the menu at these spots, all of which opened within the past year.
The Best Staycation Deals at Front Range Hotels
Reeling from COVID-19 cancellations, local hotels are turning to stir-crazy Coloradans to fill empty beds.
Where Our Food Editors Are Eating Right Now, September 2020
On the menu this month: jerk chicken, lamb neck tacos made from food scraps, and ramen in Boulder.
3 Wildlife Viewing Opportunities Made Possible by Animal Instincts (to Get It On)
Every fall, these Centennial State animals prove they’ll do whatever it takes to find a mate.
How 4 of the State’s Most Colorful Fishing Flies Got Their Names
Intricately designed flies aren’t the only way Colorado tiers show off their imaginations.
How Jack’s Solar Garden Hopes To Transform Farming—For Good
The Boulder County solar farm uses an emerging concept called agrivoltaics to make more money off the land. But that’s just the start.
3 Ways To Wear Your Favorite Spring Clothes in the Fall
Three local fashion experts share their best tips for making spring pieces work in the fall.
Room for Milly Is a Denver Cocktail Haven
Swanky drinks, inventive small plates, and a whimsical ambiance make the LoHi bar an enchanting escape.
Restaurant Review: Is Fruition a Pandemic-Defying Wonder?
With a new chef in the kitchen, the farm-to-table pioneer impresses and delights.
The Man Who Saved the Nation From One of the Worst Environmental Disasters in History
Hugh Bennett was critical in rescuing the United States from the Dust Bowl. Yet almost no one has ever heard of him.
The 5280 Insider’s Guide To Rediscovering Boulder
As the state continues to reopen after a tough summer, it’s the perfect time to rediscover locales close to home, like this city at the base of the foothills. Welcome to the Boulder you’ve been overlooking.
8 Ways To Ease Overcrowding at Our National Parks
Rocky Mountain National Park has been overrun with visitors for years. Throw social distancing measures into the mix and thinning the herd becomes even more complicated—and necessary.
Generation Next
A letter from the editor of 5280‘s September 2020 issue.
How Poor Broadband Access Is Hurting Colorado’s Rural Communities During COVID-19
Patients across the Centennial State turned to telehealth as the novel coronavirus swept across the nation. But for rural residents struggling with internet access, this important tool may be out of reach.
How Twin Pandemics Transformed Denver’s Black Leadership
The confluence of COVID-19 and this summer’s Black Lives Matter protests brought a new generation of Black leaders to the forefront of Mile High City politics and activism.
So You Think You Had COVID-19 Before March?
We asked experts the likelihood that your illness last winter was actually the new coronavirus.
A Conversation About Black Entrepreneurship With the Co-Owner of Konjo Ethiopian Food
Fetien Gebre-Michael speaks out about owning a culinary business in Colorado.
City Park Golf Course Is Finally Set To Tee off Again
After a three-year, $45 million facelift—plus a few delays—the landmark City Park Golf Course is reopening with modern flourishes.
Denver’s Iconic Paramount Theatre Turns 90
5280 staffers celebrate the occasion by remembering taking the Iron Throne, meeting their idols, and seeing some amazing performances inside the Art Deco masterpiece.
These 10 Black Creatives Want More From Denver’s Fashion Scene
We asked nearly a dozen Denver-based models, hairstylists, designers, and creative directors to share what it means to be Black in the city’s fashion industry and the changes they would like to see. Here’s what they had to say.
Beetcoin Connects Everyday Investors With Local Agricultural Businesses
Boulder-based social entrepreneur Woody Tasch established the program to provide zero-percent interest loans to farmers and food start-ups using funds from private micro-donations.
A Boulder Artist Brings a New Glow to an Old Art Form
Hannah Hazel tells us about the bright future of stained glass.
It’s Time You Met the Spirit of Grace Gospel Singers
Spirit of Grace has been active in Denver for nearly a decade. But now, as protests sweep across the city, the gospel group is finding a new audience.
Visible is Bringing a Stacked Lineup to Red Rocks. Will it be Worth Watching?
Nathaniel Rateliff, Phoebe Bridgers, Sam Hunt, and others will perform at Red Rocks Unpaused next week in what might be the most interactive concert series of the pandemic.
Denver Has A New Drag Queen Pie Delivery Business
Meet Martin Howard, the acclaimed pastry chef behind the Pie Queen, who is also known as Chocolatina, Queen of the Dessert.
Zero Foodprint Partners With Colorado Restaurants To Combat Global Warming
A one percent surcharge on your bill helps local farms establish regenerative agricultural practices that may make all the difference.
Family of Elijah McClain Celebrates His Life a Year After His Fatal Run-in With Aurora Police
Sheneen McClain and her family honored her son with music, fellowship, and the “Cupid Shuffle.”
Hecho en Colorado Is a Celebration of the State’s Chicano and Mexicano Community
The exhibition, on view at History Colorado Center through January 2021, features the works of 40 artists.
Trouts Fly Fishing Is Casting into the Platte River at a New Location
Trouts Fly Fishing, founded in 1995 in Washington Park, just moved into its biggest Denver location yet.
6 Drivers Have Hit Colorado Protesters With Vehicles This Year
The incidents are part of a nationwide trend—and could have connections to far-right memes.
There Won’t Be Any James Beard Award Winners in 2020
Colorado had six finalists for the culinary awards, which were canceled by the James Beard Foundation today.
Why is This Woman Carrying a Green Box to the Top of Colorado’s Fourteeners?
Brittney Woodrum is summiting all 58 of Colorado’s fourteeners to help raise awareness for ShelterBox—and all of those impacted by the natural disasters that didn’t stop just because of COVID-19.
Breckenridge Brewer Suzanne Nance Debuts Women’s Equality Day Sour
The Eliza-rita, available on tap starting August 26, honors Colorado suffragist Eliza Pickrell Routt.
Denver’s Icon Source Is Like Match.com for Athletes and Brands
Nearly a year old, Denver-based startup Icon Source’s online platform helps businesses big and small make authentic, meaningful connections with athletes.
This Colorado Getaway Is the State’s First Certified “Passive House”
A Q&A with the designer of this 1,300-square-foot, certified International Passive House tucked into the mountains outside of Fort Collins. And, yes, you can rent it.
Want to Save Independent Restaurants? Contact Your Elected Officials
If passed, the RESTAURANTS Act will provide vital grants to mom-and-pop businesses—but the bill still needs the support of four Colorado Congressional representatives.
Arvada: Van Bibber Creek Trail
Van Bibber Park somehow delivers a paved trail with a natural vibe.
Boulder: Chapman Drive Trail
Bring Fido along for a romp through wildflowers while you enjoy gorgeous valley views.
Castle Rock: Rimrock Trail To Creek Bottom Trail
Castlewood Canyon State Park offers interest-piquing outdoor recreation for history buffs.
Castle Rock: Challenge Hill
Philip S. Miller Park’s staircase is a good warm-up for the more famous Manitou Incline.
Evergreen: Bergen Peak Trail
Big elevation gain provides access to great views and the aspen-dotted summit of 9,701-foot Bergen Peak.
Golden: Rawhide Trail
Don’t miss the trails at idyllic White Ranch Park.
Lakewood: Mount Carbon Loop
Bear Creek Lake Park proffers lake and mountain views.
Loveland: Wild Loop To Blue Sky Trail
A popular route for mountain bikers, Blue Sky Trail allows hikers to connect Devil’s Backbone and Horsetooth Mountain open spaces.
Lyons: Grindstone Quarry Trail To Lichen Loop
Grindstone Quarry Trail is a stunning—and blessedly bike-free—path in Heil Valley Ranch.
Parker: Perimeter Trail To Two Bridges Trail
Bayou Gulch Open Space is your ticket to a long but relatively flat jaunt.
Littleton: Carpenter Peak Trail
Roxborough State Park’s Carpenter Peak is a manageable—and enjoyable—climb.
5 Urban Stretches
Escaping Denver’s concrete jungle doesn’t require a drive all the way into the foothills. Explore these five city trails for a quick connection to the outdoors.
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Dine at the Fifth String in Highland
Summer’s bounty shines at the week-old restaurant, which brings chef Amos Watts’ seasonally-inspired cooking to Tejon Street.
Is Tutoring the Right Move for Your Kid During COVID-19?
The vagaries of public school systems are driving parents to find other options.
Kiowa is Colorado’s Only County With Zero COVID-19 Cases. What Has Spared the Community?
Despite resistance to mask-wearing, Kiowa County has yet to record any COVID-19 cases. Some think they beat the virus last year. Others think God is protecting them. We visited Kiowa County to find out.
What Makes Seoul Mandoo’s Giant Dumplings So Special?
A team of experts shape hundreds of perfectly pleated mandu daily at the Aurora restaurant, which is solely dedicated to Korean dumplings.
Will the Pandemic Make Us Rethink Nonsurgical Facial Procedures?
Although doctors are accepting clients for cosmetic procedures again, many customers are rethinking what treatments are worth the upkeep.
Good River Beer Helps Clean Up Local Waterways
After shuttering its Santa Fe District taproom in May, the brewery refocuses on community projects and expanding distribution.
How I Taught My Cat to Use a Toilet During the Pandemic
This isn’t some Meet the Parents gag. You can actually train your cat to do their business in a human toilet. All you need is a cat, a training device, and a global pandemic.
Large Wildfires Are Raging West of the Continental Divide in Colorado
Colorado is dealing with four dangerous wildfires right now, including one of the largest in state history and another that has closed I-70 in Glenwood Canyon.
Black Is Beautiful Is Now On Tap in Colorado
Twenty-seven local breweries are participating in the worldwide initiative to fund causes to support police brutality reform, relevant legal defenses, and equality and inclusion programs.
Kanye West (and Nearly 20 Others) Are on Colorado’s Presidential Ballot
Kanye West and 16 other candidates have made the ballot. But does it actually matter? Probably not in Colorado.
Is Adventure Gear Running Low on the Front Range?
Some gear might be harder to find right now, but local shops are working to meet high demands as more Coloradans take to the mountains. Plus, six places to buy or rent gear.
