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The Colorado city of Denver enjoys a surprising 300 days of sunshine throughout the year - enough to rival Florida - making it possible to try, experience, and enjoy everything that the city has to offer. Situated at an altitude of 1,609m, it is often referred to as the 'Mile-High City'. After the nine-hour direct flight with Aer Lingus, there is nothing like getting out and about to dust off the cobwebs, and what better place to do it than at Rocky Mountain National Park. The best way to do this is to sign up with a tour group, rather than go it alone. Whether you are an experienced hiker or someone who loves to take long walks, these hikes are nothing like the ones you're exposed to at home and without the right tour guide and provisions, you could find yourself in a sticky situation. There is an array of wildlife on these walks that we don't have in Ireland - bears, moose and elk, to mention just a few - so it's best to leave the organisation to the experts. For us, Aspire Tours provided the perfect experience. Before you set off, make sure you are equipped with the right shoes and clothes and, of course, sunscreen and water. There are different trails you can take depending on your level of fitness, ranging from 6-8km. Take in the views, wildflowers and wildlife as your guide shares insights into the park's natural beauty. Be on the lookout for eagles above and moose throughout the trees. But most of all, simply stop, sit and take in the crisp air with views that you may only experience once in a lifetime. The tour costs $179 per person, and this includes your guide, park fees, transportation and lunch. This tour will take most of the day, so dedicate a full day of your trip solely to this experience. Don't forget to ask your tour guide about the Stanley Hotel, which you may be able to pass on your way home. For those who may not be familiar with the amazing work of Stephen King, this hotel in Estes Park was the inspiration for his book The Shining. While you may not be allowed in unless you are staying there, driving past is still enough to give you the shivers. There are shivers of a different kind at The Rally Hotel, usually on game day. Located at McGregor Square, it is a stone's throw from Coors Field, which is home to the local baseball team, the Colorado Rockies. Inside the hotel, the décor is centred around the game, with signed merchandise on the wall from sporting heroes of the past. If you are taking in a game, there is a shop in the hotel to buy a jersey that will set you back as much as $120, but you may find yourself a deal on the sale rail. Your other option is to stop by those selling them outside the grounds for a little less, but always make sure to check the spelling on the back - you want it to say the Rockies and not the Rookies. The hotel is surrounded by several sports bars and restaurants, and when a game is about to get underway, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere as fans come from near and far to cheer on their team. Depending on the time of the season, tickets you've never had before, it's definitely an experience worth indulging in. For any hotel residents who want to stay behind while their loved ones or friends head off to a game, there is a rooftop pool and bar with some of the most breathtaking views of the city. While the men enjoy the acclaim of the sports fans, when it comes to museums, Denver is a proud supporter of strong women. The Centre for Colorado Women's History focuses on the strong, determined women over the last two centuries who have made a huge impact on society. Located in a historical Victorian home constructed in 1883, prepare to step back in time and see how the families of those who were a part of the elite society lived. Witness the stories of seven unique and resilient Colorado women who overcame barriers, particularly in a strict and suppressive society. Learn about Clara Brown, an enslaved woman who broke free and became a pioneer and philanthropist in Denver, or a true icon the suffragette era, Elizabeth Piper Ensley. Only a 12-minute walk from the centre, you will find the Molly Brown House Museum. The 'unsinkable Molly' survived the sinking of the Titanic - she was played by the wonderful Kathy Bates in the 1997 blockbuster movie. I had heard something of her story, but I had never known that her true background involved that she was based primarily in Denver. The museum preserves her legacy, a woman who wore many hats as a philanthropist, socialite and suffragette. Learn about how her husband hit gold in 1893 at the Little Johnny Mine, making the family millionaires. If you love history and the rise of women in shaping society, then this is for you. Another must-visit attraction for any Denver itinerary is the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. My advice would be not to book this on the same day as a hike in the Rockies - nothing to do with not making it on time, but more to have enough energy to dance the night away. Just 25km from downtown Denver, we were brought back in time as a tribute Beatles act or took to the stage to recreate the gig that the real band performed back in 1964. The amphitheatre is embedded in the red rock mountain, with the night sky above. The iconic venue is a National Historic Landmark and over the years has hosted an array of famous music acts such as Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones and our very own U2. No matter what is featuring at the theatre when you are there, make sure to get your tickets, because the atmosphere and scenery are worth it alone. To find out what is on when you visit, visit redrocks online.com. With all this running around, you'll work up quite the appetite and don't worry, good food and drink are plentiful. For a cool, chilled and funky atmosphere, check out the Denver Milk Market. This food hall offers 12 local vendors and bars, and you choose from a range of bao buns, fried chicken and artisan sweets. It's great for quick on-the-go food, when time is precious and bellies need to be filled quickly. There is also the Denver Central Market in the RiNo district. Featuring 11 of the city's top chefs, you can find freshly baked goods at Izzio Bakery - the smell will be enough alone to entice you. Taste the sea at Tammen's Fish Market and top it off with a cocktail at the Curio bar, the perfect way to end a lunch or dinner. If you are looking for a taste of Mexico, Tamayo in Larimer Square is authentic Mexican food - the salmon a la talla is like nothing you've tasted before. And don't worry, if spice is not your bag, the waiter will help you pick something on the menu that will satisfy your taste buds. While Coors Light may have originated in this state, there are so many more beers on offer. If you are a fan of breweries, check out the street art and brewery tour of RiNo, a guided walking tour through the River North Art District. Along the way, you will pop into several breweries and taste some of the funkiest beers on the market - look out for the carrot and elderflower pints. With near-constant sunshine, sports galore and some breathtaking views that will clear your head and make you stop and soak up life, Denver is the perfect choice for those who want something a little different, a true experience you will never forget. TRAVEL FACTS Aer Lingus flies direct to Denver six times a week from Dublin, with flights starting back again next spring from €239 each way, aerlingus.com. Customers can avail themselves of US Pre-Clearance. The average room rate for the Rally is €254 plus taxes and fees, see the rallyhotel.com. For more information, click here.
