19 Jan Green City Series: Denver, Colorado
Denver is known for its panoramic mountain views, fresh air, clear blue skies, laidback vibes, and eclectic restaurant and nightlife scenes. However, it’s also making strides as an up-and-coming eco-conscious city. Or as we like to call it, a “Green City.” At Verte Luxe, we strive to bring attention to the most environmentally aware (and also incredibly fun!) destinations for eco-travelers to add to their bucket list.
Denver has been innovating their eco-efforts with green initiatives, including hybrid taxis, an eco-friendly airport, and Greenprint Denver, a comprehensive program that focuses on energy management and energy efficiency goals. If you’re planning an eco-friendly trip, check out our guide to The Mile High City below.
What to Do
There’s no better place to spend time outdoors than in Denver. The city is home to the largest city park system in the nation, with more than 200 parks in the city and an additional 14,000 acres of spectacular mountain parks. Nature lovers and adventurers alike can spend all day exploring the ins and outs of Denver’s natural attractions.
If you want to immerse yourself in the colorful culture of the city, you’ll want to check out Denver’s iconic Art Districts — there are eight different art-centric neighborhoods to explore! These areas are packed with galleries, studios, cultural attractions, majestic murals, and street art that all speak to the eccentricity and uniqueness of the city.
Where to Shop
Is it really a vacation if you don’t come home with at least one new item in your suitcase? Denver offers a slew of eco-conscious shopping, from clothing boutiques to home decor and souvenirs. The Conscious Merchant is the best place to start. It’s a zero-waste store featuring beauty products, home supplies, bedding, and scents. Not only that, but you can refill your personal care products like shampoo and conditioner in the store. This way, you can save plastic and fill your reusable travel containers for your next adventure!
What to Eat
One of the best parts of traveling is tasting the local fare, and Denver’s selection of food does not disappoint. If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to Root Down. The brunch menu offers a diverse selection of organic and vegan-friendly options that are sure to energize you for the day ahead. For lunch and dinner, you’ll be full and satisfied after dining at Watercourse, Somebody People, and Meta Burger.
Where to Stay
Of course, you need comfortable accommodations to make the most of your stay in The Mile High City. The Brown Place in the heart of Downtown Denver is an excellent choice, as it’s central to some of the city’s most popular excursions. Plus, it’s created a variety of green initiatives to ensure it remains the most environmentally friendly accommodation in downtown. Some efforts include their commitment to reducing water and energy consumption, increasing their waste diversion rate through recycling and compost, as well as educating their guests about sustainable practices.
Looking for more eco-tourism tips? Check out our recent blog post sharing four easy tips for eco-conscious travel.