Arts, nature, science, shopping, history - Denver offers many activities to the person on his own in the city.
Denver is full of wonderful experiences for the native who wants some time to herself, or for the business traveler who has just a few hours to kill and doesn't have a local to show him around.
The Museum of Nature and Science is full of interesting exhibits. Spend time walking through the mineral and gem stone display - set up to be reminiscent of an old mine. Stop and study the Russian gem sculptures - amazing in their intricacies. Learn how area geography and life emerged, beginning in the time before dinosaurs. Visit 3,000-year-old mummies and see inside their wrappings through the use of modern medical technology. With no one to distract you, you can spend as much, or as little, time at each display as you like. There are so many exhibits at the museum that it can easily take you an entire day to wander through it.
Next to the Museum of Nature and Science is the Denver Zoo. Whether you prefer big cats or small fish, monkeys or zebras, you're bound to enjoy an outing there. If the weather is nice, bring a sack lunch to enjoy during your day at the zoo.
If you'd rather watch people than animals, try the 16th Street Mall. Not only does this outdoor mall have great shopping and dining, it's a great place to people-watch, as well. Located in downtown Denver, this 16 block stretch of shops receives high ratings from locals and tourists. While walking the mall can be wonderful, there is also a free shuttle for anyone who would prefer to ride.
Another spot that's ideal for people watching is the Denver International Airport. DIA is full of people coming and going, some in a hurry, some not wanting to leave. You can watch the drama of humanity unfold before you if you spend a few hours people-watching at the airport.
If you prefer watching people who want to be watched, the Denver Center for Performing Arts is the ideal place for you. Some people are uncomfortable going to a show alone, but the DCPA puts on so many great performances that it would be a shame to let that stop you. There are concerts, dance performances, musical performances, and plays. Some shows are performed by national touring companies; others are put on by gifted local artists
If you prefer your art a bit less lively, check out the Denver Art Museum. This museum houses some wonderful pieces, and has an extensive western art exhibit. Study the Remingtons or the Native American artifacts. Visit the Chinese empire and view kimonos, pottery, and shoes. If you prefer more traditional artwork, there are many paintings and sculptures by both modern and old-world masters. Since the Denver Art Museum often hosts national and international traveling exhibitions, be sure to ask at the front desk if there are any special exhibits.
Perhaps you'd rather see how an historical figure actually lived. For this, visit the Molly Brown House. Best known for being "unsinkable," Molly Brown was much more important than just a survivor from the Titanic. Even before women nationally had the right to vote, she ran for senate. Long before that, she was an important figure in Denver. Tour her home to learn more about this fascinating woman.
If you want to get away form the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving it, try visiting the Botanic Gardens. There is plenty to see in any season. In winter, outdoor plants are draped with sparkling lights while seasonal plants are displayed inside. In warm weather it's one of the best places to find a bench tucked away amongst sweet smelling flowers. Bring a book or some music and relax in the greenery.
Finding a good book is another wonderful way to spend some of that important "me-time," and Denver is home to one of the best places in the world to do so. The Tattered Cover bookstore is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. Throughout each of Tattered Cover's three locations you'll find easy chairs and end tables encouraging you to choose a book and curl up with it. With over 150,000 titles, you'll find something in which you're interested.
Another local shopping phenomenon is on Capitol Hill: Wax Trax. This Denver institution has been around since 1979, and is a music lover's haven. Wax Trax has consistently won top honors in Denver "best of" polls: best record store, best underground record store, best CD selection, best album selection, and many more. If you are looking for an independent music store, this is it. It's large, loud, and cluttered, the way a music store should be. Whether you prefer indie music or the latest commercial hits, Wax Trax is not to be missed.
Whether you prefer nature, history, shopping, or art, Denver has many options for the person on his own. Experience some of its offerings today.
