Nursing school will undoubtedly take up a great deal of your time, energy and attention. But if you are attending our physical campus in downtown Denver, you may find that it can help to clear your head, shake off the cobwebs, and take a break from time to time. There is no better location to get out and explore, blow off some steam, and take your mind off your studies than beautiful, historic Denver.
With more than 300 historic properties, and 52 local historic districts, there is plenty to see and do if you have any interest in Denver’s mid-19th century beginnings. Born, essentially, as a gold-rush town, Denver has since grown into a major American city energized by a vibrant arts, sports, and culture scene, and featuring world-class food options, shopping, and craft beverages.
Confluence Park
Located at the confluence of the Platte River and Cherry Creek, this picturesque city park marks the spot where prospectors first began hunting for local gold. Benefitting from the recent completion of a multi-million dollar renovation, the park now proudly features Shoemaker Plaza, a magnet for bikers and pedestrians alike.
Larimer Square
Located within walking distance of Denver College of Nursing campus, Larimer Square is among Denver’s most historic spots. The city was founded on this spot in 1858, by General Larimer. Today, Larimer is Denver’s most historic block, featuring exciting dining, shopping and lively bars, illuminated by Larimer’s signature canopy of lights.
Union Station
Historic Union Station, founded in 1881, long served as an important transportation hub for this growing Rocky Mountain city. Today, Union Station boasts numerous shops, restaurants and a luxury hotel. Renovated in 2014, Union Station is now updated for the 21st century.
Civic Center Park
Fast approaching its centennial celebration in 2019, Civic Center Park is a cultural gem where popular festivals and other celebrations are held regularly. Don’t miss the 1918 Greek amphitheater, and the nearby state capitol building. Unfortunately, a visit to the park on a non-festival day may be marred by the presence of numerous homeless people and some of the less pleasant things that come with a large homeless population.
Denver Art Museum
Originally founded in 1893, DAM now showcases some of the most innovative modern architecture you’ll find anywhere. In total, there are 350,000 square feet of exhibit space with 10 permanent collections onsite. Highly recommended for fans of visual art.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Arguably the oldest structure in the Denver area, Red Rocks is a relatively modern outdoor amphitheater where concerts and other performances are held outdoors. Billed as the “only naturally-occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world,” Red Rocks is located just outside of town, in a geological niche that marks the division between the Great Plains and the beginning of the Rocky Mountain range.
Red Rocks is both a concert venue and a popular park, with two trails suitable for running. Artists ranging from the Beatles, to Sting, to U2 have rocked out under the stars at this remarkable outdoor venue. While the first performance there was in 1906, the rocks that form the acoustically “perfect” amphitheater have been around considerably longer, as in hundreds of millions of years. Now, that is history.