Meow Wolf Is on Track to Open Its Denver Location in Late 2021
The pandemic and a company reorganization postponed the immersive art museum’s original 2020 opening—but the project is still moving forward with new coronavirus-induced innovations.
We’re Dreaming of a White Christmas. Just Bring Us the Snow!
Incoming storms will boost Colorado’s snowpack and bring wintery conditions—just in time for the holidays.
How 2020 Has Affected the Way We Get High
The pandemic has been a boon for Colorado cannabis businesses, as the necessity of social distancing brought quick adjustments to the industry, like curbside pickup and online ordering. Will these changes stick around?
Namkeen Is Spuntino’s New Ghost Kitchen
Owners of the beloved Italian spot in Highland reincarnate their South Indian restaurant with a full to-go menu—and a family-style feast for al fresco dining, too.
3 Things You Need to Know About Cabu Latte
The three-month-old company, which sells plant-based cold brew lattes from a trike-powered cart at Commons Park, launched a delivery service last month.
How C Lazy U Ranch Plans to Rise From The Ashes This Spring
The 101-year-old ranch was devastated by the East Troublesome Fire in October, but the owners are already working to rebuild, in hopes of reopening by March.
How I Reorganized My Pantry During the Pandemic
Inspired by binge-watching Get Organized with the Home Edit on Netflix and a strong desire to have control over something this year, one writer set about turning her pantry into a Type A dream space.
Denver Police Mishandled Response to This Summer’s Protests, New Report Says
Plus: A rundown of pending high-profile lawsuits against the Denver Police Department related to misconduct at the protests.
COVID-19 Isn’t the Only Reason El Chapultepec Is Closed Permanently
Local bar owners mourn the closure of the beloved 87-year-old jazz club, whose owners cite the changing neighborhood and bar scene as challenges for the business.
For Unique and Handmade Gifts from Local Artisans, Head to the Art Place
The Art Place in RiNo is reimagining the retail experience by offering local artists and makers a space to temporarily (and affordably) showcase their crafts.
9 Delicious Ways to Celebrate Colorado Gives Day
Find out how local culinary businesses are working to spread holiday cheer this season—along with ways you can contribute—just in time for Colorado Gives Day, December 8.
9 Nonprofits to Support on Colorado Gives Day
Close to 3,000 organizations are participating in the annual statewide day of giving—and there’s never been a better time to contribute.
Time Magazine’s First-Ever Kid of the Year Is a Wunderkind from Colorado
Gitanjali Rao developed Kindly, a program to combat cyberbullying—but that’s not the only innovation the 15-year-old from Lone Tree has dreamed up.
A New Line of Italian Handbags Was Born Right Here in Colorado
Laura Vogel’s first collection of handmade leather shoulder bags are designer quality, with a budget-friendly price tag.
Housing Inventory Hits a Record Low (Again) as Demand Intensifies
“It’s basically déjà vu at the beginning of every single month.”
“Bread & Jam” Offers Hot Meals and Live Jams to Denver Musicians
Hosted at the Dazzle music venue, the weekly event will feature livestreams of local bands while providing free meals and other support services to artists who have been impacted by COVID-19.
5 Biggest Takeaways From Colorado’s Special Legislative Session
The Democrat-led General Assembly met this week in a rare special session to provide much-needed aid to struggling Coloradans.
Stranahan’s Is Opening Its Snowflake Whiskey Vault for the First Time
Twenty-five bottles of the once-a-year releases will be auctioned off this month to benefit Colorado firefighters.
How Colorado Season Pass Holders Can Get the Most Out of This Strange Ski Season
Two words: Planning and patience.
3 Colorado Cookbooks That Make Great Gifts—And Benefit Local Businesses
You’ll deliver a double dose of good when you purchase these home-grown recipe collections.
How 4 Local Food Trucks Are Weathering the Pandemic
With most offices closed and events canceled, small-business food truck owners are parking in residential areas and suburban neighborhoods instead.
Colorado’s Independent Ski Resorts Are Preparing for a Big Season
With major resorts dealing with visitor limits, smaller locales like Sunlight Mountain Resort have seen significant upticks in interest.
COVID-19 Is Leaving Day Laborers out in the Cold
Dwindling job opportunities have day laborers on the precipice of a bitter winter.
Goodbye, 2020
A letter from the editor of 5280’s December 2020 issue.
Take a Tour of Jody Guralnick’s Workshop
The Aspen artist’s nature-inspired collection is on view at the Denver Botanic Gardens’ Freyer–Newman Center through March 14.
Larimer Square Is Trying to Lure Shoppers Away From Amazon With Unique Experiences
Booze, trap music, and a menu written in a language patrons must decode are all things you’ll find at the retail district’s new pop-ups.
All the Good Things That Happened in 2020
Against all odds, Colorado has seen a few positive changes in 2020.
Keeping I-70 Clear: A Photo Essay
Meet the men and women who work day and night in tough winter conditions to make safe our most critical east-west thoroughfare.
Ask an Adventurer: How to Make the Most of Your Winter
We asked outdoor experts to tell us about splitboarding, the wildfires’ impact on winter sports, and how to care for your down jacket.
Chef Amos Watts Composes Edible Hymns at the Fifth String
Don’t miss the small plates and family-style dinners inspired by his Midwest upbringing and fine-dining pedigree.
Welcome to Fishers Peak, Colorado’s Newest State Park
Beyond being a much-needed new playground for Centennial Staters, Fishers Peak’s goal of balancing conservation and recreation could set a new standard for parks everywhere.
The Best of the Mountain West
Celebrating 26 captivating people, beautiful places, and irresistible things endemic to our special slice of America in 2020.
What Happens When a Restaurant Critic Finds His Mother’s Recipe Box?
Scott Mowbray reminisces about Christmases past and his mother’s treasured cooking rituals.
Why Did Palantir Technologies Move Its Headquarters From Silicon Valley to Denver?
The secretive and controversial data-mining firm moved its headquarters to LoDo earlier this year. And while some city and state government officials lobbied for the relocation, others are furious. Here’s why that should matter to all of us.
Finding a New Rhythm
A letter from the editor of 5280 Home‘s December 2020/January 2021 issue.
The Interior Design Industry Has a Diversity Problem. Meet the Denverite Who’s Working To Solve It.
Under Keia McSwain’s leadership, the Black Interior Designers Network amplifies its pursuit of more inclusivity in the interior design world.
We Found, We Love: Gifts for the Decor Lover
Eight great gifts for the style enthusiasts in your life (or for decking your own halls this season).
Meet the Designer: Jane Bradford
Fueled by a passion for beautiful things and her signature good humor, Jane Bradford makes her way into the Denver design limelight.
Local Jones Is a Restaurant Built for Design-Lovers
Inviting details and thoughtful design make this Cherry Creek hotel eatery the place you never knew you always wanted to go.
How COVID-19 Is Influencing Home Design
The architects of Boulder-based Bldg Collective discuss shifting toward a more values-based approach, how to “future-proof” your home, and what’s next for Colorado’s design community.
Creating an At-Home Workspace That’s in It for the Long Haul
Interior designer Kirsten Brundage offers four ways to alleviate your work-from-home woes.
These Residential Spaces Will Inspire You To Go Bold in 2021
Looking to take amp up your home’s style? Allow these five stellar designs—the winners of the ’20–’21 Top Denver Design contest—to be your guiding lights.
A New Tiny Home Development Provides a Healing Path for Houseless Denverites
Women’s Village in the Cole neighborhood offers transitional housing and a sense of community to single women experiencing homelessness.
3 Simple Steps for Detoxifying Your Home
Start the new year on a healthy note with help from the Conscious Merchant, a clean-living boutique at the Dairy Block.
5 Ways To Upgrade Your Home’s Outdoor Oasis
At-home al fresco spaces have been sanity-savers in the time of COVID-19. Here’s how to make the most of yours.
8 Essentials for an Inviting (and Germ-Free!) Entryway
These must-have pieces make for the perfect place to leave the stresses of the outside world behind.
Behind the Spontaneous, Meditative Art of Sumi-E
Denver artist Marilyn Wells channels energy and emotion into the ancient art of ink-wash painting.
The Best Home Shops and Design Services in Denver Right Now
You voted. We tallied. Our editors picked their favorites. Introducing our first-ever list of the city’s 46 most beloved design resources, from architecture firms to rug boutiques, antiques shops to landscape designers. You can thank us later.
These Companies Will Deliver Rental Equipment Directly to Your Door This Ski Season
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, valet services offer a chance to snag gear without a trip to a ski shop.
Where to Cut Down Your Christmas Tree in Colorado 2020
Because of the devastating fire season, there are some additional restrictions on where you can search for your perfect tree this year. But that makes it even more important to participate in this unique (and fun!) family tradition.
Hot Property: A Contemporary Boulder Retreat with Room to Roam
For a cool $6.9 million, this five-acre horse property just south of Boulder boasts Flatirons views and direct access to riding trails within easy reach of the city.
The Miracle Christmas Bar Offers Social Distancing-Friendly Experiences
Sip festive cocktails in private greenhouses bedecked in festive décor at the Miracle on Main Street pop-up in Louisville.
The Ultimate Guide to Colorado’s Holiday Events & Celebrations
It’s been a long year. Now, it’s time to bundle up and enjoy the magic of the season—social-distant style.
There’s a New Denim Company in Town—And the Next Drop Is Sure to Sell Out
Local musician Danae Simone is bringing quality and low-cost denim to Denverites with DSX Denim. The second collection, which includes styles for both women and men, launches on November 27.
All the Ways Ballmer Peak Distillery Is Conserving Precious Resources
The year-old spirits maker saves 400,000 gallons of water each year, donates spent grain to a local nonprofit, and a lot more.
Dine-in Restrictions, Financial Challenges Shutter Julep
The Larimer Street dining room may be closed, but Kyle and Katy Foster’s Southern restaurant will live on through pop-ups and classes.
Will Outdoor Tents Become the New College Classrooms?
Universities and colleges across the state placed outdoor tents on campus this fall as an alternative to indoor classrooms—and staff and students liked it.
Meet Tofu, the Denver Turkey Lifting Spirits During the Pandemic
The 56-pound people-loving bird has been an unexpected source of joy during these turbulent times.
Shop for Colorado-Made Products at This Indoor Farmers’ Market in Castle Rock
Melissa Clement’s newly expanded Mercantile by Farmgirl Foods offers wares from more than 70 local vendors, most of which are female-owned businesses.
This Contact-Tracing App Is Key to DU’s Management of COVID-19
The app, created by Everbridge, has a 75 percent adoption rate in the community and was one component of the university’s strategy to prevent outbreaks on campus.
How to Travel the World Without Leaving Colorado
Vail’s Sonnenalp Hotel and other globally inspired destinations put the world within reach.
Big Red F Restaurant Group Closes Zolo Grill, Plans for the Future
Owner Dave Query shares insight into closing his first-born restaurant and what comes next, which includes revamped takeout and delivery programs.
Charcuterie Delivery Companies Will Bring the Goods For Your Holiday
The pros at Golden Graze Boxes, Meat and Cheese Board, and So Damn Gouda Cheese & Provisions have all of your snacking needs covered.
10 Outdoor & Virtual Holiday Markets to Shop This Season
‘Tis the season of shopping, sipping, and celebrating. Do it all safely at these local outdoor and online markets.
Gift Guide 2020: 8 Gorgeous Local Goods for the Stylish Home
Make this holiday season memorable for all the best reasons with these beautiful, locally sourced gifts for the home.
Gift Guide 2020: 6 Ways to Give Back This Season
As the holiday season approaches, remember materialistic items aren’t the only gift you can give. Here are opportunities to help spread cheer—and help others—this holiday season.
Gift Guide 2020: 6 Products to Help Promote Self-Care at Home
What can we say—it’s been a stressful year. Give the gift of relaxation to your loved ones (or yourself) this holiday season.
Gift Guide 2020: 6 DIY Crafts for the Artist at Home
The upside to staying home this holiday season is having more time to learn a new skill. From cross-stitching to needle punching and woodblock printing, here are six locally made kits for the crafter in all of us.
Gift Guide 2020: 10 Fashion & Beauty Stocking Stuffers for Her
From cozy slippers to to-go face masks and made-to-order fashions, these small goodies are guaranteed to put a smile on her face this holiday season.
Gift Guide 2020: 7 Fashion & Beauty Stocking Stuffers for Him
From cozy socks to soothing shaving soap, these small goodies are sure to put a smile on his face.
“We Are Still Here. We Are Still Fighting. And We Need Your Help.”
Community support for health care workers surged in the spring. Now, it’s all but evaporated. Frontline heroes discuss the seismic shift and why they need our help today more than ever.
Gift Guide 2020: 19 Locally Made Gifts for Food (And Drink) Lovers
From cocktail stirrers and a make-your-own bitters set to Ethiopian coffee and futuristic candy, here are some delicious treats to celebrate the season.
How the Closure of Indoor Dining Will Affect Denver Restaurants
Restaurants may remain open for takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining, but in-person last call is now at 8 p.m.
10 New Trends in Multifamily Housing Design
OZ Architecture’s Nate Jenkins helps us imagine the new design details that will allow apartment, condo, and loft dwellers to live (and work) safely and comfortably in high-density spaces in the years to come.
Purple Is the New Red & Other Things to Know About Colorado’s Latest COVID-19 Restrictions
Fifteen Colorado counties are moving to a revised Level Red by Friday, triggering new restrictions like a ban on indoor dining and personal gatherings, an 8 p.m. last call, and additional capacity limits on gyms. This is the last stop on the way to another stay-at-home order.
Cripple Creek Backcountry Opens Denver Location Just in Time for Ski Season
Opening a Denver location has been a dream for the owners of Cripple Creek Backcountry for five years. That dream became a reality ahead of what’s anticipated to be a busy backcountry ski season.
Colorado Restaurant Association Honors Industry Pros
Sheila Lucero of Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar and Dave Woodruff of El Moro Spirits and Tavern are among this year’s Industry Spotlight Award recipients.
Colorado Lawyers Offer Free Services to Small Businesses Hurt by the Pandemic
Since March, small businesses statewide have struggled to stay afloat in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. A coalition of local lawyers has stepped up to help.
Wonderbound Plays Naughty and Nice With Debut of Winterland: A Discotheque Cabaret
The in-person production promises a rich—and risqué—escape from this year’s reality.
Carne y Arena at Stanley Marketplace Is an Emotional Virtual Reality Experience
Alejandro G. Iñárritu blurs the line between subject and spectator in an immersive virtual reality experience that shows what it’s like to cross the border.
You Can Strike Gold Right Here in Colorado
So you wanna be a gold-digger? No seriously—here’s how to get started with gold-panning in Colorado.
Why It’s Important to Stay Home This Thanksgiving, According to an Infectious Disease Doctor
More Coloradans than ever are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 and the viral spread shows no signs of easing. To curb transmission, state officials are urging residents to avoid interacting with anyone outside their household for the rest of November—and that includes Thanksgiving.
How to Learn to Skateboard (aka, Fall on Your Ass With Grace)
When COVID-19 cleared Denver’s streets of cars, one local writer faced an existential question: skate or die?
First-Timer’s Guide: Curecanti National Recreation Area
This paradise in southwest Colorado brims with unworldly rock formations, hundreds of incredible campsites, and the state’s largest shoreline—and there are opportunities for adventure year-round.
Craft Beer World Remembers Denver Beer Co. Head Brewer Jason Buehler
Buehler, 43, died in a climbing accident near Aspen on November 6.
Have You Tasted These 3 Award-Winning Colorado-Made Products?
Grüvi non-alcoholic beers and wines, Mortal Kombucha beverages, and Bloombox Foods salad dressings took top honors at Naturally Boulder’s 2020 Pitch Slam.
Meet Iman Jodeh, Colorado’s First-Ever Muslim Lawmaker
Iman Jodeh, a 38-year-old daughter of Palestinian immigrants, was elected to serve as a Colorado state representative last week.
How One Denver Bar Owner Fought A Three-Day Eviction Notice
Bar Helix owner Kendra Anderson was ordered to vacate her bar despite a state-mandated requirement that tenants must receive 30-days notice.
Denver’s Hotel Industry Struggles to Rebound from COVID-19 Impacts
Almost eight months after hotels temporarily closed, the industry is still making up for lost time—and revenue.
Camp Christmas Returns with a Virtual Winter Wonderland
This year’s Camp Christmas offers access to an immersive online experience sprung from the imagination of creator Lonnie Hanzon, along with packages filled with festive crafts and activities to complete at home.
The Mental Health Advice We All Need Right Now
It’s been a quite a week and an extraordinary year. If you’re feeling anxious, know you’re not alone. We asked the experts to share practical tips for how to cope in these difficult times.
What the Mayor’s Latest Order Means for Restaurants and Bars
As of Sunday, November 8, in-person dining and liquor sales are prohibited after 10 p.m.
Mayor Hancock Issues a “Home-by-10” Order, Effective Sunday Night
City officials hope the new restrictions, which they wouldn’t call a curfew, will help avoid another stay-at-home order as COVID-19 cases continue to surge.
How Local Restaurants Are Reducing the Environmental Impact of Takeout
From fully compostable containers to a reusable tiffin system, Colorado eateries are taking great efforts to make to-go more sustainable.
Colorado’s COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Reach an All-Time High
During a virtual press conference on Thursday, Governor Jared Polis pleaded with Coloradans to avoid gatherings and continue wearing masks as the state’s COVID-19 rates head in a grim direction.
Howl About That: Coloradans Vote to Reintroduce the Gray Wolf
This is the first time voters had a direct say in reintroducing one of the most controversial canids in the United States.
The Woman Behind YeetCoryGardner Talks About the Instagram Account’s Viral Fame
Senator Gardner has, indeed, been yeeted, and even Sentor-elect John Hickenlooper got in on the fun.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Wants Your Help Finding Our Next State Park
Visitors to Colorado’s state parks have hit record numbers this year. Now, you can suggest locations for our next great outdoor recreation area.
Denver’s Average Single-Family Home Price Surpasses $625,000 for First Time
The weather may be cooler, but October’s real estate market was scorching hot, with record-breaking prices and low inventory.
Coloradans Voted in Record Numbers in the 2020 Election
More than 3.2 million ballots have been collected so far, for a turnout rate of about 85 percent. Once every vote is tallied, Colorado could end up with the highest turnout in the country.
Denver Votes to Repeal Pit Bull Ban
The contentious, decades-old ordinance will be replaced with a new licensing system for bully breeds, aimed at encouraging responsible pet ownership.
Coloradans Reject 22-Week Abortion Ban, One of the Election’s Most Expensive Initiatives
With the defeat of Proposition 115 on Tuesday night, representatives from both campaigns say this vote is the start of wider education efforts on abortion in Colorado—and beyond.
John Hickenlooper Defeats Cory Gardner in U.S. Senate Race
Former Governor John Hickenlooper ousted Senator Cory Gardner, who has served one term in the U.S. Senate and entered this race among the most vulnerable Republicans in the country.
Joe Biden Wins Colorado as Presidential Race Intensifies Nationwide
It’s too early to know who will ultimately be the next president, but former Vice President Joe Biden earned a convincing victory in Colorado on Election Day.
Election 2020: All the Results from Colorado As They Come In
The votes are cast, and now we wait. Follow along as we track the results from the statewide races and ballot measures.
More Than 600,000 Coloradans Are Expected to Vote Today as Turnout Soars
While many Coloradans will drop off their completed mail ballots today, polling places are still expected to see an influx of in-person voters.
What We’re Watching in Colorado on Election Day 2020
It’s safe to say that this election will be unlike any other. Here are six storylines we’re watching as the results unfold.
4 Reasons Why We Can’t Wait to Stay at Flying Moon Cabins—Again!
The recently reopened quartet of rental cabins near Idaho Springs oozes charm from every timeworn log beam—and offers a welcome escape to a simpler time.
Why Tipping Is A Broken System For Restaurant Workers—and Owners
Restaurant Olivia’s Austin Carson speaks out on pay equity in the hospitality industry.
Finding Hope and Middle Eastern Flavors at House of Kabob
After 35 years, the family-owned restaurant in University Hills is still going strong.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 6 International Gear Makers That Moved to Colorado
These international outfitters traveled across the globe to set up their North American headquarters right here in the Centennial State.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Colorado’s Gear Companies
While Coloradans took to the outdoors to fight pandemic-related cabin fever, retail shops and makers tried to keep up with demand.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Have Niche Outdoor Interests? Shop at These Local Purveyors
From fly-fishing to snowshoeing, Colorado has a gear maker for your special interest.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Your Guide to the Ultimate Camping Set-Up
We found nine locally made items to make your campsite functional and fun—s’mores and dazzling starry nights not included.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 4 Items to the Give to Adventurers in Your Life
Whether you need a stocking stuffer or a gift for the kid who has everything, check out what Centennial State makers are offering up this year.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How the Cancellation of Outdoor Retailer’s Summer Show Affected Gear Makers
For the first time since 1982, the gear industry’s hallmark trade show didn’t go on as planned.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 3 New Innovators in Centennial State Gear
From glue-free waterproof textiles to retro multipurpose bags, these newbies are making waves in the gear industry.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How to Start Your Gear Stash From Scratch
Plus three places to pick up new toys.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Meet the Pioneers of Colorado-Made Gear
These five companies have been making world-class gadgets in the state for decades.
The Creator of Black in Denver on How the Black Lives Matter Protests Impacted Her Work
Narkita Gold’s colorful portrait series, which highlights the uniqueness of the Mile High City’s Black community, took on new purpose following this summer’s demonstrations against police brutality.
Jewelry Designer Jeffery Bolling Dishes on His Favorite Proposal Trends
We asked the owner of Jeffery B Jewelers in Cherry Creek whether he says ‘I Do’ to popular ring designs, wedding traditions, and more.
Will Ranger Participation in Homeless Encampment Sweeps Deteriorate Community Trust?
How Denver park rangers reconcile conflicting roles while fighting the opioid and homelessness crises.
7 Colorado-Made Lotions to Keep Your Skin Happy
All that hand-washing means a good moisturizer is a must. We help you find the perfect one for you.
Let Elita Specialty Market & Kitchen Help You Cook Thanksgiving Dinner
The butcher shop and cafe in Aurora will bring the flavors of Mexico and the Mediterranean to your holiday table.
Can Takeout Beat a Homemade Neopolitan-Style Pie?
5280‘s restaurant critic Scott Mowbray solves a local pizza mystery.
The History of Museums Is More Fraught Than You Might Think
For years, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science unwittingly held stolen carvings. What it took to get them home highlights the complex nature of decolonizing museums.
4 Times Colorado Mascots Proved They’ll Do Anything for the Team
Local mascots make a living doing over-the-top, wacky things. When those attempts at absurdity go awry, well, let’s just say things can get weird.
Living With Depression and Anxiety During a Global Pandemic
With mood disorders on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic, people who’ve never experienced mental health issues are enduring some of the emotions I feel almost every day of my life. Maybe that’s why I can finally tell my story.
The 5280 Guide to Avoiding Consumer Scams
Fraud is up across Colorado. We show you how to protect yourself.
Fraud Alert
A letter from the editor of 5280’s November 2020 issue.
With Wolf Creek Ski Area’s Opening, Colorado’s Ski Season Is Officially Underway
Before it could even begin, the race to see which resort would open first is already over.
Il Porcellino Salumi Turns Five — And Goes National
The award-winning Berkeley-based charcuterie shop and deli has big plans for the future.
