We will be flying into Denver and heading to Breckenridge and would like to do some shopping at a mall that isn't too far off of the interstate. I know there is an outlet mall in Summitt County but would also like to do some shopping at a mall with Macy, Nordstrom, etc.. Also, any restaurant recommendations near Denver International or on the way to or from our destination is appreciated.

For convenience, your best bet would be the shops at Northfield Stapleton (www.northfieldstapleton.com), right off I-70 west just about 10 minutes after you get on the highway from the airport access road. It's a brand new area with a nice assortment of stores including Macy's (the malls where the Nordstroms are around here are much further away). Plenty of places to eat there; my fave is Ling & Louie's, kind of like PF Changs.

Colorado Mills (www.coloradomills.com) is another possibility, also right off the highway on the west side of town. Although it is touted as an outlet mall, they do have good stores like the Saks 5th Avenue and Neiman Marcus outlets. Depending on what time you're getting on I-70, you may want to choose your mall to either beat or wait out rush hour traffic (usually 4:30-6:30).

Thanks Tekwriter!!
About how far off of I-70 would it be to the closest Nordstroms? Where I live we don't have either one and would like to shop both at the same mall if possible.

There are three:
Park Meadows Mall, (not a mall, actually, it's a "Retail Resort!") a good 30 minute drive from I-70 via I-225 and I-25 in the southeast part of the metro area (www.parkmeadows.com) Also has Nordstrom Rack, the outlet store.

Flatiron Crossing (www.flatironcrossing.com), in the far northwest part of town, at least 30 minutes from I-70 on Hwy 36 en route to Boulder.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center, near downtown Denver, maybe 20 minutes depending on traffic via Colorado Boulevard south. (www.shopcherrycreek.com)

All are very nice, upscale shopping centers, generally with the same stores you'd find anywhere in the country. I'd say that Cherry Creek may be the least out of your way. If you have time, you could stroll in the adjoining neighborhood, Cherry Creek North, to visit some more unique stores and boutiques. Nice places to eat and drink there as well.

Thanks again Tekwriter. I think we'll have to go to Cherry Creek, as it looks fairly easy to find. I had searched for malls and found the ones that you had mentioned but wasn't sure the true drive time to each one. I truly appreciate this information. Any restaurant recommendations in the Cherry Creek area? We enjoys italian, mexican, and a good steakhouse/seafood venue. No chains please.

Nordstrom's is at Park Meadows along with a Nordstrom's outlet! I'd be pretty sure there is a Macy's there also.
For an outlet mall, just head to Breck and stop in Silverthorne. They are ALL right there!!
If you are going to Cherry Creek, eat at Elway's, right behind World Market/Cost Plus and Bed Bath and Beyond.

I totally second Gretchen's recommendation for Elways for excellent steak and local atmosphere. (Founded by John Elway, Denver Broncos No. 7, himself. All genuflect.)

It's only a few steps from Nordstroms. Excellent food, hip upscale surroundings. Make a rez if you need to be in and out by a certain time (unless it's lunch). If that isn't what you're looking for, check out this website for Cherry Creek North to get an idea of some of the plenty of other places just a few blocks outside of the mall. http://www.cherrycreeknorth.com/merc...ories.asp?ID=1

(I just love that shopping is the first stop on your itinerary! Make sure you get the important things accomplished... the mountains will always be there LOL!)

Elway's is a great spot but Cherry Creek North has several good options too.

North (very popular) and is located on Clayton just a few stores from the JW Marriott also with the Cherry Creek Grill, Cucina Colore, Soleil and for great hamburgers the Cherry Cricket.

Thanks everyone. Our flight arrives at around 10:00 a.m. and we can't check into our condo until 4:00p.m., and outgoing we have to ckeck out by 10:00 and our flight doesn't leave Denver until 6:45 p.m., so shopping works for the time before and after our flights. We will definitely try Elways. Thanks again. We are looking forward to the golfing,shopping, mountains, rafting, restaurants, and relaxation if time permits.

Coming back may not work to shop in Denver although the shops at Stapleton might be okay, now that I look--haven't been there personally. Silverthorne would also be on the way.
Be sure to allow 2 hours to get through security and to your flight door. Not including car return.
Denver folk, also try Fruition on 6th at Marion. Chefs from Mizuna and Luce have opened it--absolutely fabulous.
The chef at Elway's recently won the national pork council recipe competition (over 130 chefs)--pork shoulder with posole cake with avocado and chile sauces. Had it Thursday. Tonight will be something different--the Japanese sea bass was out of this world.