My eight year old and I are flying into Denver for a wedding in Evergreen in early July. I'm not keen on the idea of staying in Denver with so much beauty just outside the city and I'm hoping it will still be there. However, I've never traveled to Colorado and would like a bit o' advice on places to stay that would offer the best of both worlds - access to Denver (museums, etc.) and nearby attractions (Buffalo Bills' Grave). We've got four full days to play, and, ideally, I'd like not to drive more than an hour or so either way. Any suggestions on activities, cities and/or hotels are much appreciated. Thanks!

Grace,

My suggestion would be to rent the movie "Things to do in Denver When You're Dead" for Inspiration.

walken rules

We've been to Denver several times over the last few years with our kids. We usually stay at an Embassy Suites or Amerisuites. Lots to do in Denver. We especially like the Museum of Nature and Science and Ocean Journey (aquarium). Also, Elitch Gardens amusement park is fine, and my kids really enjoyed an insect/butterfly place in a nearby suburb. Sorry, I've forgotten the name of it. Have fun!

As a Denverite, I would suggest that you spend your time in the mountains. Lodging, even in towns such as Vail, is cheaper in the summer, and the mountains are gorgeous. Consider either Vail or Breckenridge as a base for enjoying the scenery, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, white-water rafting (a ways away), learning the mining history of the area (Breckenridge; Leadville; there are several mines you can visit). From Evergreen, both Breck and Vail should be about one hour away.

Unless you come from someplace with absolutely no museums, those in Denver are not worth your time compared to the mountains.

Lexma90 is right on. Summer in Summit County and Vail = great lodging values and plenty of things for both you and your son. Look at www.summitnet.com or www.snow.com for ideas

If not there is a new chain hotel at the evergreen exit. sorry that i do not know the name but someone else might. its right on the highway though.

Grace: I'm not trying to be funny but I'm not sure I would be going to Colorado at all right now. Their are at least a half dozen fires raging out of control & they're evacuating people out of a lot of areas around Denver. And according to the weather forecasts it's not going to get much better in the near future. You may want to get a thorough look into the situation before you make any further plans.

now lets not get to freaked out. Yes we have fires, but at this time the evergreen area is fine as is summit and Vail areas. I would only change my plans if they were in the path of the fires http://www.9news.com/newsroom/wf2002-stats.htm you may have to refresh to get current information.

Remember no smoking.