Denver
Denver is the capital and most populous city in Colorado. Known as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation exactly one mile above sea level, it’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, tech startups, and Western history.
Overview
- Population: ~715,000 (over 3 million in the metro area)
- Nickname: The Mile High City
- Founded: 1858 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush
- Geography: Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains in central Colorado
Landmarks and Attractions
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre – world-famous natural concert venue
- Denver Art Museum and Museum of Nature & Science
- Colorado State Capitol and Civic Center Park
- Denver Botanic Gardens and Denver Zoo
- Union Station and LoDo (Lower Downtown)
- Coors Field – home of the Colorado Rockies
Economy
Denver’s diverse economy includes:
- Energy and natural resources
- Aerospace and telecommunications
- Tourism and outdoor recreation
- Finance, healthcare, and education
It’s also an emerging hub for tech and green innovation.
Culture and Lifestyle
- Outdoor-focused lifestyle: hiking, skiing, biking, camping
- Gateway to the Rocky Mountains and national parks
- Rapidly growing food, brewery, and art scenes
- Known for clean air, sunshine, and active living
Education and Innovation
- Home to the University of Denver and nearby University of Colorado campuses
- Growing tech ecosystem with startups and accelerators
- Strong presence in renewable energy research
Transportation
- Denver International Airport (DEN) – one of the largest in the U.S.
- RTD light rail and bus network
- Bike-friendly infrastructure and trails
- Major crossroads: I-25 and I-70 intersect in the city
Fun Facts
- The 13th step of the Colorado State Capitol is exactly one mile above sea level
- Denver brews more beer daily than any other city in the U.S.
- It has over 200 parks within city limits