Denver experienced a population boom from 1870 to 1890, in which it went from less than five thousand to more than one hundred thousand. This is largely due to the fact that silver was found in the surrounding mountains in 1880, though chaos ensued in 1893. However, the economy had already stabilized with food processing, wholesale trade, railroads, agricultural service and manufacturing. At that time, it was the twenty-sixth largest city in the country. Musical entertainment was quite popular, having gotten its beginnings at the Apollo Hall, which opened in 1859. Presently, there is a good selection of luxury Denver hotels and visitors can experience these, along with other comforts, while they visit this mountain destination.
The HRC Mile High Gala is held in late April, HRC standing for Human Rights Campaign. The gala is a fundraising event to help fight for equality, featuring a dinner, auction, guest speakers and more. The event kicks off at 6 p.m., with a registration and silent auction reception. The dinner begins at 7:30 and 9:30 marks the dessert reception and after party. Speakers have included Senator Mark Udall and Joe Solmonese, the President of the HRC. Other events include an awards ceremony, with the Outstanding Youth Award, Paul Hunter Award and Partners in Equality Award. In the past, music has been provided by Coles Whalen, a local musician and a comedy act by Alec Mapa has also been featured. A guest appearance by the actress of the popular television show, "True Blood", Kristin Bauer also entertained those present.
The Single Malt and Scotch Whiskey Extravaganza of Denver is the only event truly dedicated to its title, with an abundance of single malt and scotch whiskeys. The event, held in April, allows visitors to taste more than 110 of the best single malt and scotch whiskeys and also features a gourmet dinner, a free tasting glass, imported cigars and a raffle. There is also a pre-event, called the Whiskey Panel, when guests who come early can register to ask the panel two questions related to whiskey, be it the process of making it or anything related to the topic.
Denver's Do at the Zoo is held in mid-June, at the Denver Zoo. It features gourmet food and cocktail beverages and live entertainment. Catering is provided by Avenue Grill, Adagio Baking Company, Denver Chophouse and Brewery, Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que, Gaetano's Italian Restaurant, India House, Garcia's Mexican Restaurant, Happy Cakes Bakeshop, Lala's Wine Bar and Pizzeria, Le Central French Restaurant and McCormick's Fish House and Bar. Music is held at various venues around the zoo and has featured the Greg Harris Vibe Trio, Dave Preston, Danielle Ate the Sandwich, The Moderators and more.
Many luxury Denver hotels feature on-site restaurants and bars, room service and valet parking while a few also offer a concierge service. Laundry, dry cleaning, luggage storage and safety deposit boxes are common while some locations offer ironing and shuttle services. On-site gift shops are fairly common and activities include fitness centers and swimming pools while some offer saunas, spas, jacuzzis, golf, or billiards. Business centers, meeting rooms and banquet facilities are quite common for those traveling on business and tour desks are also freely available.
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science and its corresponding resident scientists have built up an extensive collection that is displayed throughout the museum. The museum also features temporary exhibitions in the main museum and shows in the planetarium. Space Odyssey, Expedition Health, Gems and Minerals, Egyptian Mummies and Real Pirates are some of the exhibits that have been featured. Others include North American Indian Cultures, Wildlife Exhibits, Prehistoric Journey and Discovery Zone. Planetarium shows have included The Little Star that Could, Journey to the Stars and others and the museum also features an IMAX Theatre.
While staying in luxury Denver hotels, guests can enjoy The Denver Botanic Gardens, featuring four main attraction areas. The Denver Botanic Gardens and Mordecai Children's Garden are both on York Street. Mount Goliath and the Denver Botanic Gardens are on Chatfield. The York Street Denver Botanic Gardens are of an international nature, with different sections representing different areas of the world. The Offshoots Cafe provides visitors with dining during their visit.
Sat, May 19 - Heavy Rain Shower
Max : 13°C (55°F)
Min : 6°C (43°F)
Sun, May 20 - Sunny
Max : 24°C (75°F)
Min : 13°C (55°F)
Mon, May 21 - Sunny
Max : 29°C (84°F)
Min : 14°C (57°F)