We'll be spending the last night (a Saturday in May) of our SW trip near the Denver airport in preparation for early flights next morning. We'll probably be at the Courtyard or Fairfield Inn, both on Tower Rd.. Is there a good, casual local dinner spot in the vicinity anyone can recommend? We'll have driven in from Moab, Utah, so won't want a big drive for dinner. Thanks, Ruth

There are some (sit-down, not fast food) chains south of Pena on Tower (and a 50s-style chrome diner on the east side of tower, 1 1/2 miles south of Pena).

There isn't much in that area, just a few chain restaurants that cater to those travelers staying at the nearby motels.

I was afraid that it would all be chain restaurants, but was hoping against hope...Thanks.

Anything worthwhile within a reasonable drive, say 25 minutes?

Well, you could drive into Denver in that time. The Denver Chop House is pretty close to an exit. And actually near there are also a good many restaurants around Coors Field--breweries, etc.

The airport is sort of "out there" still.

I agree that downtown is your best bet. What kind of food do you like?

There'll be 4 of us, so I guess I should say mainstream food, with easy access and parking. At that point, convenience will probably matter as much as taste (although I want to avoid the mass chains if possible). Thanks.

For mainstream food, non-chain and a casual dinner spot my first choice would be the Wynkoop Brewery.

www.wynkoop.com

There is a pay parking lot across the street at Union Station or metered street parking. You may want to check and see if there is a Rockies game that day which may impact parking a bit.

Thanks, wtm003, I'll check it out.