Denver has some great spots to visit for romance seeking couples, including lush gardens, historic houses, and fine dining. For all attractions referenced, please call ahead for hours and scheduled activities as many change seasonally. Enjoy!
A hotspot for romance is Denver Botanic Gardens located at 1005 York St., (303) 331-4000. In July 2004, Denver’s 5280 Magazine nominated it as one of the best places to “pop the question.” There are at least 2-dozen different themed gardens ready for your walking pleasure. Don’t miss the Romantic Gardens and take your camera! Cost is approximately $8.50 per person. Seasonal Note: The garden also has a sister (Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield) further south that offers a corn maze walk on weekends in September and October. Cost is approximately $8.00 per person.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre has long been a favorite local getaway for Denverites. Located at the base of the foothills at 16352 County Rd. 93 in Morrison, this park offers great scenic vistas and wildlife at dawn and dusk. The park has a visitor’s center, which is worth a visit for the history of the park and amphitheatre. There are walking paths and winding roads throughout the park. Some of the best pictures are taken at the top of the amphitheatre where there is a cavernous drop on the other side of the fence. Admission to the park is free.
If outside activities don’t suit you, take a walk inside at the Denver Art Museum located at 100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, (720) 865-5000. For those not familiar with art or simply don’t know where to start, the museum offers tours daily at 1:30pm highlighting the “don’t miss” pieces. Simply meet at the information desk and tag along. The price of the tour is included with museum admission. Cost is approximately $8.00 per person.
Another inside tour to take is at The Molly Brown House Museum located at 1340 Pennsylvania St., (303) 832-4092. Steep yourself in the rich history of this quaint home with its magnificently charming décor. This house is interesting because it represents a few different architectural styles that are not often seen put together. It has been through several remodels and additions over the years, as numerous Denver families owned it over time. Seasonal Note: You can also have a light lunch during Friday Tea at Molly's. Tea’s are on select Friday's in the fall and winter. The museum tour is included, but you MUST have reservations. Cost is approximately $20.00 per person.
For a relaxing dinner in an atmosphere conducive to lovers’ small talk and lingering in the moment try The Melting Pot located at 2707 W. Main St. in Littleton, (303) 794-5666. The Melting Pot is housed in a brick building built in 1916 that was formerly the Littleton Library. This warm and cozy restaurant is decorated in fantastic old woods and glowing candlelight. When making your reservation ask for a booth downstairs - they offer a sort of hideaway from the other diners. Since this is a fondue restaurant, yes, I said fondue like from the 1970’s, plan for a minimum of two to three hours from start to finish. However, this is the not the same fondue you will remember from the 70’s, and thank the chefs for that! The menu offers delectable selections of beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables and bread with cheese. All offerings are served with a variety of dipping sauces. Do save room for dessert, it’s fabulous! Try one of their Big Night Out Entrees. It costs around $80.00 and offers a four-course meal for two. Just a tip here: Wear something that does not have to be dry-cleaned. The smell from the cooking oil on your table seeps into your clothing, leaving you smelling your clothes the next day wanting more! Make your reservations 3 – 4 weeks in advance as prime dinner slots go fast. Cost is approximately $80.00 per couple minus drinks, tax and tip.
After dinner, take a walk (trust me, you’ll need a walk after dinner) up Main Street and window shop the street-lining boutiques without the pressure of buying, as most of the stores close around 6 and 7pm.
I hope you enjoy your tour and visit again!
