Attractions

Denver, an intriguing combination of modern American city and overgrown Old West town, offers a wide variety of attractions, activities, and events. Thanks to its geographic isolation, it's a true cultural hub for a significant chunk of the country: You'll discover art, history, sports, recreation, shopping, and plenty of nightlife. It is quite easy to spend an entire week of vacation in the city, but Denver also makes a convenient base for trips to Boulder, Colorado Springs, or the mountains.

Historic Buildings

Denver encompasses 17 recognized historic districts, including Capitol Hill, the Clements District (around 21st St. and Tremont St., just east of downtown), and 9th Street Park in Auraria (off 9th St. and West Colfax Ave.). Historic Denver (tel. 303/534-5288; www.historicdenver.org) offers publications covering many of these areas and organizes several annual events.

Amusement Parks & Places Especially for Kids

Denver abounds in child-oriented activities, and the listings below will probably appeal to young travelers of any age. In addition, some sights listed in the previous sections may appeal to families. They include the Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center, Colorado History Museum, Downtown Aquarium, Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Miniatures Dolls & Toys, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Denver Zoo, Four Mile Historic Park, and the U.S. Mint.

The Big Blue Bear -- Denver has a new face to the world, and it's peering into the second floor of the Colorado Convention Center. Known popularly as "The Big Blue Bear," the 40-foot blue ursine immediately became Denver's most photogenic piece of public art when it was installed in 2005. Sculptor Lawrence Argent designed the big fella -- officially named I See What You Mean -- and then a California-based fabricator shaped him out of 5 tons of steel, fiberglass, and cement; transported him to Colorado in sections; and bolted him into place.

The sculpture is located right by the convention center's 14th Street entrance, and can be photographed from inside or out. For a Denver souvenir, it's hard to beat the little blue bear replicas available at the Denver Art Museum, inside the Colorado Convention Center, and at the visitor information center at 16th and California streets.