Top Spots Near Denver To Say Goodbye To Summer
(credit: Riot Fest)With Labor Day fast approaching, along with back to school, it's almost time to kiss this summer goodbye. However, there are likely a few good weekends left before it's time to head to the mountains for fall foliage and winter fun. The end of the summer still offers plenty of outdoor fun and great scenery, and there is still time to pack in some fun before the onset of autumn. If you're ready to ring out the summer on a high note, check out one of the following places.
11500 Roxborough Park Rd.
Littleton, CO 80125
(303) 791-7275
cpw.state.co.us
With breathtaking vistas, miles of hiking trails, and a large reservoir, Chatfield State Park is the perfect place to spend the last weekends of summer. For only $8.00 for an all day pass, you can enjoy trails via bicycle or on foot, hang out with your dogs in the off leash area or enjoy the water in a variety of ways. The park offers boat and kayak rentals, so you can water ski or paddle around the lake, or you can try your hand at stand up paddle boarding. Although the park closes at 10:00 p.m., it does have camping areas available if you want to stay overnight.
Brainard Lake
Ward, CO 80481
(303) 541-2500
www.fs.usda.gov
Located in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest the Brainard Lake Recreational Area is one of the most scenic mountain areas in which to say goodbye to the summer. Entrance fees vary based on whether you'll be biking or hiking on the trail, but once in, you will be treated to gorgeous views of the back country. It is located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, and you can check out other features of the forest once you've completed your hike. The trail is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Denver.
2030 W. 30th Ave.
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 993-3120
www.lingerdenver.com
If city life is more your style, kiss the summer goodbye by making use of one of the most interesting venues in Denver. Linger used to be a mortuary, but it is now a popular hot spot in the Highlands. Home to an outdoor patio with stunning views of the city, Linger is the perfect place to chill out while soaking in the city. Its menu includes a variety of signature cocktails, as well as a broad selection of craft beers. The menu has dishes inspired by many different areas of the world, and it rotates by season, so you can eat here multiple times and try something completely different each time.
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 830-2972
www.denverfoodandwine.com
If you really want to end summer in an eventful way, check out the Denver Food and Wine Festival, which runs from Sept. 6-11. Sponsored by the Colorado Restaurant Association, this festival is an excellent way to introduce yourself to restaurants throughout the metro area while also learning about food and wine. If you've always wondered how to pair food and wine, then this is the festival for you. Tickets start at $55 and vary in price range based on which package or event you're interested in attending. The Dinner Under the Stars package allows guests to enjoy a five course meal while gazing on the city.
National Western Complex
4655 Humboldt St.
Denver, CO 80216
(303) 297-116
As summer draws to a close, the National Western Complex hosts one of the best annual festivals in the City, Riot Fest. This year's lineup includes Jane's Addiction, Death Cab For Cutie, Nas, Ween and many more. This year's lineup also features hip hop and indie acts as well. The three-day festival runs from Sept. 2-4, and tickets can be purchased for individual days or for the full 3-day festival, although they are selling out quickly, so check online before you go.
Related: Top Music Festivals Near Denver
