6 Things to Do when on Vacation in Denver

If you've never been to Denver, Colorado now is the time to go. You'll see what a beautiful state it is and you'll be able to experience free events, attractions, and so much more.

The following is a list of 5 things to do while vacationing in Denver.

1. "Cinco de Mayo" is celebrated by Mexican Americans to commemorate the day when the Mexican Army defeated the French Army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Although "Cinco de Mayo" is celebrated throughout the States, Denver Colorado's celebration is the largest in the entire U.S. It is estimated that there are at least 300,000 people that gather in the downtown area of the Mile Hi City each year. The "Cinco de Mayo" celebration is free and visitors can enjoy music and live entertainment. There are vendors, activities for the children, exhibits, and food stands throughout the area. The event takes place in the heart of downtown and is so large that the streets have to be closed off to accommodate the crowd. The event is held on both May 5^th and 6^th starting at 10:00 am and ending at 8:00 pm. The exact location is at Civic Center Park at the intersection of Broadway and Colfax Avenue in downtown. For more information please call 720-913-0630.

2. "Ad and Fantasy balloons" offer hot air balloon rides, sunrise champagne flights, weddings, and other special events when planned in advance. The venue is located at Chatfield State Park in Littleton, Colorado. Gery DeKoevend is the Pilot in Command who has been flying for over 30 years and is claimed to be one of the best pilots in the United States. Reservations are taken throughout the year and are a must. Their phone number is 303-791-7275.

3. "Adventures Out West Guided Tours" is located at 1680 South 21^st Street in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They offer balloon tours, horseback riding tours, jeep tours, and hiking and biking guided tours. Ticket information can be obtained by calling 800-755-0935.

4. "Celestial Seasonings" offers a guided tour through their Colorado Factory located at 4600 Sleepytime Drive in Buena Vista, Colorado. On the tour you will see the "Mint Room," (where you will have a tasting opportunity) the "Celestial Seasonings Art Gallery," and the "Herb Garden." This is an ongoing free tour and is first come first serve. For more information contact them at www.celestialseasonings.com.

5. "Lost Mine Tours" will take you where you'll see caverns and ride through an authentic mine, all while sitting in a 6x6 Mine-Mobile. Tours begin in downtown Salida and usually last 3 hours. For more information contact them at 719-3952112.

6. "Boulder Ice Cream Tours" is known for their "All Natural and Organic Ice Cream." You will see how it is made and even be able to sample some. This is a free event and group tours are welcome. For more information call 303-720-1105.

It would take me hours to list all the other attractions and events happening in the Denver area so if you would like to view more ongoing or ticketed events go on-line to www.denver.org.