Denver

Capital and most populous city of Colorado, United States

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Flag of Denver, Colorado

Denver is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Known as the "Mile High City" because its official elevation is exactly one mile (5280 feet or 1609.3 meters) above sea level, Denver is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a diverse cultural scene.

History

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James W. Denver, the city's namesake

Denver was founded in November 1858 as a mining town during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush in western Kansas Territory. The city was named after James W. Denver, a governor of the Kansas Territory. The settlement was initially a frontier town, but it quickly grew as a supply hub for new mines in the mountains.

Geography

Denver is located in the South Platte River Valley on the western edge of the High Plains just east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The city has a total area of 154.7 square miles (401 km²), of which 1.6 square miles (4.1 km²) is water.

Climate

Denver has a semi-arid, continental climate with four distinct seasons. The city experiences hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The weather can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and conditions.

Economy

Denver's economy is based on a diverse array of industries including telecommunications, aerospace, and technology. The city is also a major hub for transportation and distribution due to its central location in the United States.

Culture

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Denver Art Museum

Denver is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Denver Art Museum is renowned for its collection of Native American art, while the Denver Performing Arts Complex is one of the largest performing arts centers in the country.

Landmarks

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Denver Union Station

Denver boasts several notable landmarks, including the historic Denver Union Station, which serves as a major transportation hub and a popular destination for dining and shopping. The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-friendly area in downtown Denver, known for its shops, restaurants, and street performers.

Sports

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Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies

Denver is a sports-loving city with teams in all major professional sports leagues. The Denver Broncos (NFL), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Denver Nuggets (NBA), and Colorado Avalanche (NHL) all call Denver home. Coors Field is the home of the Rockies and is known for its beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains.

Parks and Recreation

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Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Denver is known for its extensive park system and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is close to the Rocky Mountain National Park and offers easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a world-famous outdoor concert venue located just outside the city.

Education

Denver is home to several institutions of higher education, including the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and University of Colorado Denver. These institutions contribute to the city's vibrant academic and research community.

Transportation

Denver is served by the Denver International Airport, one of the largest airports in the world by land area. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and light rail, operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD).

Related pages

• Colorado
• Rocky Mountains
• Pike's Peak Gold Rush