The Explore Issue
Making Moments Together Extraordinary
Experience an incredible staycation close to home. Take in our Front Range views or thrilling waterslides and lazy river relaxation at Arapahoe Springs Water Park.
At Gaylord Hotels, bringing people together is what we do best.
Explore
We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit - I fall into the trap sometimes too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort and investment. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty. But I’m a firm believer that exploration is a vital aspect to experiencing life fully.
Summer is the perfect time to add a little adventure, explore, try new places and learn something new, to even get a little lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.
A few years back, I went to the lake with treasured friends and even though I was afraid of the water, I learned how to paddle board. It was one of the most exciting experiences! I’d held a long time fear of water and refused to ever get in large bodies of water, but paddle boarding has introduced some beautiful adventures for me since. Following that summer, my husband got me a paddle board and we went paddle boarding in some beautiful spots in Colorado, Utah and Nevada.
This time of year I tend to come full circle. I become more aware of slowing down and being present. Days get longer, and I spend more time sitting on the patio, looking for leisurely moments where I’m not checking my phone. I’ve realized that adventure is closer than you think. It can be found in walking a new trail, playing a new card game or going somewhere to try a new dessert.
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for adventure. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar. We hope this issue inspires you to explore.
CASSANDRA
GREEN, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
July 2024
PUBLISHERS
Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com
Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Cassandra Green
cassandra.green@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Elizabeth Watson | watsonmarketingllc@yahoo.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Abby Watkins | abby@abbywatkinsphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Bakewell, Cassandra Green, Andi Lawley, Emily Tracy, Elizabeth Watson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Cassandra Green, Logan Lovett, Abby Watkins, Juliana Wilfong Photography, Allis Ranch Winery, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Cayman Islands Tourism Department, Gaylord Rockies Resort, Just BE Kitchen, Sandbar Wedding in the Bahamas, Sarah Key, the Keys to Travel
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
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Don't Let Investments Take a Vacation
Summertime is here — and for many people that means it’s time to hit the road. But even if you decide to take a vacation, you’ll want other areas of your life to keep working — especially your investments.
Here are a few suggestions for doing just that:
First, check your portfolio’s performance periodically, but don’t measure your results against a market index, such as the S&P 500. Instead, use your own benchmarks, such as how well your portfolio is moving you toward your goals.
Also, invest with a purpose. Follow a long-term investment strategy that reflects your goals, risk tolerance, asset accumulation needs, liquidity and time horizon.
One more idea: Invest strategically by matching some investments with specific goals. For example, your IRA and 401(k) are designed for retirement, but if you want to help send your kids to college, you might consider a tax-advantaged 529 plan. For a short-term goal, such as a wedding or a long vacation, consider an investment that offers significant preservation of principal.
By making those moves appropriate for your situation, you can keep your investments doing one essential task — working hard for you.
city scene
1: Susan Alley Parker Chamber ambassador. 2: Frannie’s Equine Haven Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting celebration on May 31st. 4: Kara Massa, Parker Chamber VP of Membership, and Brandi Wilks, Town Councilwoman. 6: Brandi Wilks, Ashley Leary and Kara Massa. 7: Jim Peterson, VFW and Amy Pfister, Aging Resources of Douglas County (ARDC).
bills for the Employee Owned Business Office & Income Tax Credit Bill and the Chamber of Commerce Alcohol Special Event Permit to reinstate Wine Walks on June 4th.
8: Colorado Saddlery Celebrates the Grand Opening of its Castle Rock location June 8th - Derald Shaw, owner of Double D Ranch, and Dave Fingers 9: Saddles galore! 10: Dave Fingers 11: Colorado Saddlery Team Nathan Balbin, Andy Pietrizyk, Mindi Ramsey, Lesley Wassam, Matt Wassam and Ty Rinaldo 12-14: Governor Polis signed
ANNA MANERFELT FINGERS
ANNA MANERFELT FINGERS
ANNA MANERFELT FINGERS
ANNA MANERFELT FINGERS
JULIANA WILFONG PHOTOGRAPHY
JULIANA WILFONG PHOTOGRAPHY
JULIANA WILFONG PHOTOGRAPHY
business monthly
Convict Coffee Company Now Open in Parker Combating Recidivism
Founded by Dan, an ex-convict turned entrepreneur, their shop blends aromatic self-roasted coffee, filthy pop, teas and food with a mission to combat recidivism. Every cup you buy at Convict Coffee Company fuels change in the community. Join them for video games, board games, movie nights, bingo and overall good vibes in a refreshing change from your typical corporate coffee shop. Find them next to Natural Grocers off of South Parker Road and Hilltop Road.
The Good Dog Academy Day School and Learning Center
"The Good Dog Academy Day School and Learning Center is Parker's premier all-positive dog training facility. They believe building the bond between dog and owner is the foundation for all successful dog training. They offer training for many topics from basic obedience to behavior problems. Their unique Day School Enrichment Program is designed to help busy parents meet their dog's daily mental and physical exercise needs. Enroll now to start growing your bond with your dog today!"
Summer is here.
The Gritty Team has the expertise to eliminate odors, germs, dirt, and stains from your seats and carpet. Let us provide a refreshing, germ-free interior to prepare your vehicle for busy Spring activities. Also, we can thoroughly wash and polish your vehicle so that it’s not only clean but shines. We apply non-acidic, eco-friendly products with a professional white glove touch. We can detail your vehicle at your location or you can drop off your vehicle at our shop. So, schedule an appointment, today.
OU R P I CKS
CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Travel Agent
Zillman Weddings & Travel nicolezillman.com | 949.376.5229
Erin Hughey luxuryhomeandtravel.com
Sunny Cruises and Travel sunnycruises.net | 303.841.3192
Paradise Travel yourparadisevacation.com | 303.912.3676
Rocky Mountain Travel 303.680.0445
Local Adventure
Sky Zone skyzone.com
Movement Gyms movementgyms.com | 719.387.5691
Ninja Nation ninjanation.com |
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Sporty Pickle sportypickle.com | 303.643.6433
Chatfield State Park - Horseback Riding chatfieldstables.com | 303.933.3636
Hotel
The Red Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast redfarmhousebedandbreakfast.com | 303.840.6235
Ascent on Main thelaszlohotel.com | 720.572.1910
Broadmoor Hotel broadmoor.com | 719.471.3265
Halcyon a Hotel in Cherry Creek halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com | 720.772.5000
Catbird Hotel catbirdhotel.com | 720.990.5555
Day Trip
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo cmzoo.org | 719.633.9925
CSU Spur csuspur.org | 970.297.4321
Rocky Mountain National Park visitestespark.com
Castlewood Canyon Biking, Hiking, Picnicking cpw.state.co.us
Dinosaur Ridge dinoridge.org
Weekend Getaway Hotels
Great Wolf Lodge greatwolf.com | 844.553.9653
Glen Isle Resort glenisleresort.com | 303.816.0790
Historic Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast Inn queenannebnb.com | 303.296.6666
The Springs Resort and Spa pagosahotsprings.com | 800.225.0934
Cheyenne Mountain Resort, A Dolce by Wyndham cheyennemountain.com | 719.538.4000
CLASSIC (Natural Look)
TRUEXPRESS (Natural Look)
HYBRID (Dramatic)
TRUEVOLUME (More Dramatic)
MEGA VOLUME (Most Dramatic) WISPY
EYEBROW MICROBLADING (Semi-Permanent Tattoo Using Hair-Like Strokes)
BROW
Introducing
LASH LIFT & TINT
BROW TINT
DERMAPLANE RESURFACING EXPRESS FACIAL
HYDROPEPTIDE RADIANT RESULTS FACIAL HYDROPEPTIDES
SKINCARE RETAIL PRODUCTS
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WATSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN LOVETT
Douglas County Wineries Join the Tour
THE UNIQUE TERROIR OF COLORADO VINEYARDS HAS CREATED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL WINERIES TO PRODUCE A DELICIOUS VARIETY OF AWARD WINNING WINES
Colorado vineyards have been steadily gaining national, and international, recognition. One testament to the quality and drinkability of our grapes is the dramatic increase in the number of wineries in Colorado. The small town of Palisade is approximately four hours west of Parker and currently boasts an impressive 30 wineries.
Luckily for Parker locals, Douglas County also has wineries that are reaping the benefits of Colorado’s two federally designated American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Purgatory Cellars Winery (Parker), The Wine Barrel (Parker) and Allis Ranch Winery (Sedalia) use Colorado grapes in crafting their wines.
For Parker City Lifestyle’s exploration of Douglas County wineries, we feature three local vintners that share a dedication to crafting exceptional wines.
Purgatory Cellars Winery, Parker, CO
Purgatory Cellars is a window into a traditional oldworld European wine tasting experience. Since April 2015, Marko Copic and his wife Ivanka have brought their Croatian heritage to Parker with a winery that highlights their passion for making high quality wines with Colorado grapes.
The beautiful bar at the front of the tasting room was hand-crafted by Marko in Croatia using reclaimed barrel staves. He transported the bar along with oak barrels and a museum-worthy wine press to Colorado to contribute to the atmosphere at Purgatory Cellars.
The Wine Barrel, Parker, CO
For the last seven and a half years, Cordy and Bob Coady have been pouring wine for the Parker community at their winery on South Twenty Mile Road. The Wine Barrel makes their wine onsite from grape skins and juice imported from all over the world as well as local Colorado vineyards.
The Wine Barrel in Parker, Colorado has an impressive variety of wines to choose from.
Purgatory Cellars Winery ages their wine in oak casks for up to three years.
Groups of six or more can schedule tastings and tours at Allis Ranch Winery in Sedalia, Colorado.
Photo credit Allis Ranch Winery
“We like to say that we are a micro-winery as a play off the micro-brewery theme. We make wine in small batches,” says Cordy.
With an emphasis on variety and approachability, the owners of The Wine Barrel have created a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Cordy says, “Sometimes people are intimidated by wine, and we don’t want them to be. We just want them to have fun.”
Allis Ranch Winery, Sedalia, CO
Just a short road trip down I-25 delivers you to the picturesque setting of Allis Ranch Winery. Located on a historic ranch, the white building with red trim that houses the Allis Ranch Winery is a 1910 Sears Catalog home. Yes, in 1910 you could open a Sears Catalog and order a house. All of the materials required would be shipped to you.
It seems appropriate that Sears Catalog buildings are now highly valued for the quality of their craftsmanship, and the winery, founded by David Rhyne in 2007, is focused on quality and craftsmanship for a very select number of wines.
With three wines currently being offered, David takes the time to make sure that they are special. Using traditional techniques and grapes exclusively from Colorado vineyards, David crushes, presses, ages and bottles his wine in the cellar at Allis Ranch Winery.
David calls winemaking a labor of love, passion and honest work. All three Douglas County wineries absolutely agree.
The stainless steel vats at The Wine Barrel were imported from Italy.
Purgatory Cellars - a Parker winery with European charm.
David Rhyne, owner and winemaker at Allis Ranch Winery.
Peak Patio Pleasures
COLORADO'S OUTDOOR GEMS
Colorado’s adage “if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes” is good news for the area’s patio lovers. From patios on the base of (defunct) air traffic control towers to patios in the hearts of downtown Steamboat, Denver and Boulder, the following are some of Colorado’s best places to dine and drink al fresco.
Some of our favorite patios in Colorado include:
FLYTECO TOWER - BEST PATIO FOR AVIATION ENTHUSIASTS, HISTORIANS AND FAMILIES
In 2022, aviation-themed brewery FlyteCo Tower opened its 25,000-square-foot brewpub in the now defunct Stapleton Air Traffic Control tower attached to the iconic 164-foot-tower, which includes an expansive patio. The patio includes 18 holes of minigolf, ping pong and lawn games, in addition to the high-tech golf stimulators, axe throwing, six bowling lanes, full arcade and three floors of fun inside. The space has become a community gathering space for craft beer lovers, families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
HOPS & PIE
Last year, Tennyson’s Hops & Pie opened a 3,000-squarefoot patio, a parking-lot-turned-patio labor of love. The expansive patio is game, baby, pizza and beer-friendly. With 20+ craft beer taps, usually with hard-to-find beers and sourdough Detroit-style pizza, it’s one of the best patios in the city.
MAMBO
ITALIANO - BEST PATIO IN YAMPA VALLEY
With tables full of beloved Italian-American delicacies like Chicken and Eggplant Parmigiano and Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Italian-inspired spritzes, an enviable wine list, a generous happy hour, a Tuscany-inspired mural, and in the heart of downtown, Steamboat Springs Mambo Italiano’s gorgeous patio is one of Colorado’s very best al fresco dining spots at 6,900’. Mambo is one of the first
Food Hall Patio
spots you see when you’re arriving in Steamboat’s iconic downtown. Mambo boasts an inviting open kitchen, pizza bar, indoor-outdoor bar and beautiful patio that combines new and old world Italian cuisine and decor, making it the dining destination in Yampa Valley.
OAK AT FOURTEENTH - BEST PATIO FOR SUMMER DINNER ON BOULDER’S PEARL STREET
Located in the heart of Boulder’s pedestrian-only Pearl Street Mall, OAK at Fourteenth’s patio has been a neighborhood staple of downtown for more than a decade. OAK at Fourteenth (recently recommended by the Michelin Guide) is a stylish neighborhood restaurant that has been offering local and seasonal woodfired American cuisine to locals and visitors for more than a decade. From the very beginning, OAK has inspired loyal customers and rave reviews for their menus, led by Co-owner James Beard Semi-Finalist Chef Steve Redzikowski.
JUST BE KITCHEN - BEST DOG-FRIENDLY PATIO, BEST GLUTEN-FREE PATIO
Right in the heart of Denver’s bustling Platte Street is Just BE Kitchen’s dogfriendly patio where the kitchen serves up gluten-free goodies for humans and dogs alike. Just BE Kitchen’s menu is 100 percent free of gluten, grains, refined sugars, dairy and seed oils. (For dogs, they create a sweet potato dog treat.) Just BE has a drool-worthy menu that appeals to health-conscious families, high-performance athletes, those living with food allergies and anyone seeking an ‘ooey, gooey, stick-to-your-ribs’ kind of meal that just so happens to be allergen free.
PARKWAY FOOD HALL
Parkway Food Hall is one of the newest patios on the Front Range, opening in May 2024. The patio seats up to 150 and diners can bring food from all eight concepts –from Japanese street food to shawarma to Indian – out there, along with drinks from the bars, such as a Pear Spritz. While parents are out enjoying a drink, kids can enjoy the massive arcade room indoors.
Hops & Pie Patio
Colorado’s adage “if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes” is good news for the area’s patio lovers.
NON-STOP TROPICAL FUN!
6 Fun & Sun Destinations Worth Exploring—All with Direct Flights from Denver!
ARTICLE BY LISA BAKEWELL
I love working with Nicole Zillman on travel articles. I get to swap stories with her, plus I learn something new every time! For example, Nicole has a list of must-haves on her website at NicoleZillman.com that I never thought of—but now desperately need ! So, Tip #1: Check Nicole’s site at the “Flight
Photo Credit Cayman Islands Tourism Department, Grand Cayman
Each destination is just a non-stop flight away from Denver. So pack your bags! We have some escaping to do!
Gadgets & Must-Haves” tab under Travel Essentials for her in-the-know travel necessities.
This time I reached out to Nicole at Zillman Weddings and Travel for the gossip on six tropical destinations: Grand Cayman, the Bahamas, Belize, Jamaica, Costa Rica and Roatan. The best part? Each destination is just a non-stop flight away from Denver. So pack your bags! We have some escaping to do!
GRAND CAYMAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS (GCM)
“Twenty years ago Grand Cayman was a quaint Caribbean island, but now it’s a world-class destination with some of the best shopping, dining and—of course—the world famous Seven Mile Beach,” shares Nicole. And though it will be hard to drag yourself away from its crystal clear waters, she suggests taking a trip to the Stingray City Sandbar, Cayman Turtle Centre or Georgetown. And don’t miss the food! Nicole likes LUCA on Seven Mile Beach, Papagallo in
West Bay and Tukka East End. In the mood for shopping? Nicole recommends the Camana Bay Shopping Center—it’s the hub for luxury boutiques—and Georgetown for souvenirs. For festivals, Nicole recommends Pirates Week in November.
Favorite lodging: Kimpton Seafire, Ritz Carlton and Westin Grand Cayman
Non-stop: Cayman Airways
NASSAU, BAHAMAS (NAS)
“The Bahamas have some of the clearest water in the Caribbean,” shares Nicole, “and is part of the same island chain as Turks and Caicos—with more accessible luxury.” With its festive colors and Junkanoo bands, it won’t take you long to get into the island spirit. “Don’t forget to try conch and listen for the blowing of conch shells at sunset,” Nicole recommends. And definitely swim with the pigs and explore the Out Islands.
Photo Credit Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Sandbar Wedding in the Bahamas
Favorite lodging: Sandals Royal Bahamian, the Baha Mar Mega Resort family, Ocean Club by Four Seasons, Margaritaville and Atlantis
Non-stop: United
BELIZE CITY, BELIZE (BZE)
“Belize has been a mainstay on many travelers’ bucket lists,” shares Nicole. And now it’s even more accessible! “For world-class diving, endless cayes, islands and luxurious eco resorts, Ambergris Caye is a notable hotspot,” says Nicole, “and Belize has one of the largest populations of Central American jaguars and toucans!” Other recommendations include the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Blue Hole, Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Caye Caulker. Favorite lodging: Margarita Beach Resort, Anthony’s and Sirenian Bay
Non-stop: United/Southwest
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA (MBJ)
I interviewed Nicole for a non-stop travel to Jamaica article in the April 2023 issue of Parker City Lifestyle (CityLifestyle.com/Parker/Issues/2023-04), so I won’t rehash it. But, since Nicole is a Sandals Resorts Chairman’s Royal Club Luxury Travel Expert, I wanted to pick her brain about the “flagship and heart” of the Sandals and Beaches Resort family— Jamaica—with 9 resorts on the island currently and soon to be 10. “Sandals Dunn’s River is an upscale reimagining of the former property that had been in the Sandals portfolio decades ago,” shares Nicole. “When repurchased, Sandals unveiled a new tier in the ultra-luxury all-inclusive space.” Another expert tip from Nicole: “This ultra-luxury Caribbean concept can be seen in the Sandals property in Curacao too—and most recently in the brand new Sandals St. Vincent!”
Favorite lodging: Sandals Dunn’s River, Beaches Negril Resort and Jamaica Inn
Non-stop: United
Top: Photo Credit Sarah Key, the Keys to Travel, Belize Beachfront
Bottom: Photo Credit Essentials Costa Rica, Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica
Nicole is a wealth of knowledge for fun places to stay and things to do while you’re there— with awards to prove it. And super responsive!
COSTA RICA (MULTIPLE AIRPORTS)
"My absolute favorite place to visit in Costa Rica is Lapa Rios Eco-Resort,” shares Nicole. “It’s definitely an exclusive bucket list stay, right in the heart of its own wildlife reserve—a front row seat to macaws, sloths, and much more!” Flying nonstop to San Jose (SJO) gives you Arenal and Monteverde access; non-stop to Liberia (LIR) for famous beach areas like Papagayo, Tamarindo and Nosara.
Favorite lodging: Treehouse/cabin-style accommodations in Monteverde and beach towns; Amor Arenal all-inclusive for volcano hot springs; Westin Reserva Conchal; Margaritaville; Four Seasons; Secrets; and Dreams
Non-stop: United/Southwest
1.949.680.9925
ROATAN, HONDURAS (RTB)
“Roatan is a diver’s paradise!” exclaims Nicole. “[Its] coral reef is the largest in North America and the world’s second largest. Sandy Bay offers a quieter but equally magnificent beach. And explore Roatan’s wildlife at the Botanical Gardens and nature trails.
Favorite lodging: Anthony’s Key, Kimpton Grand Roatan
Non-stop: United
Nicole is a wealth of knowledge for fun places to stay and things to do while you’re there—with awards to prove it. And she's super responsive! Reach her at 1.949.680.9925 for any of your travel questions and help with travel plans, accommodations and your travel itinerary.
Photo Credit Essentials Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica
REAL-TIME FINANCIAL PLANNING
WHAT’S NEW: EXPLORING THE GAYLORD ROCKIES’ EXTRAORDINARY REVAMP
A Beacon of Grandeur
ARTICLE BY ANDI LAWLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT
The verdict is in: Gaylord Rockies Resort is
the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Colorado getaway.
Nestled against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the Gaylord Rockies Resort has always been a beacon of grandeur, but their recent unveiling of Embers Lodge Bar and new English Pub, The Fortunate Prospector, has us curious to explore the resort’s newest upgrades:
MORNING ARRIVAL:
AN OASIS NEAR THE AIRPORT
After touching down at Denver International Airport, it's a short 15-minute drive to the sprawling haven of Gaylord Rockies Resort. As you step into the updated Grand Lodge, you're met with panoramic mountain views, dining options galore, a full-service spa and aquatic paradise at Arapahoe Springs Water Park. And don't worry about a stiff check-in process; the staff are friendly and welcoming, ensuring your stay starts off on the right foot.
AFTERNOON ESCAPE: THE FORTUNATE PROSPECTOR
As the day progresses, (and stomach’s start to rumble) the resort’s new English Pub, The Fortunate Prospector, is eager to please. With its rich woodwork and Victorian charm, the dining outlet feels like a cozy nook transported from another era. The story of Earl, the dapper bighorn sheep, and fictional proprietor, adds a whimsical touch. Savoring traditional Fish & Chips and a Pimm's Cup cocktail, the pub’s ambiance blending Colorado mining history and English elegance makes for an enchanting dining experience.
EVENING ELEGANCE: EMBERS LODGE BAR
Gaylord Rockies has made happy hour easy with Embers Lodge Bar—the heart of the resort. Its 360-degree wrap around bar is a real showstopper, with warm flame red and tawny gold hues. Find a comfortable spot by
one of the grand fireplaces while perusing the menu. The Ziggy Stardust cocktail—a mix of vodka, custom spices, and a flamed cinnamon pour-over—is a standout, and this bold drink perfectly matches the bar's lively vibe. Pair it with oysters and barbacoa sliders and your tastebuds will thank you later.
FUTURE PROMISES: CONTINUED ENHANCEMENTS
In discussions with Suzy Hart, the resort's general manager, it's revealed that enhancements will continue into 2024. Expect new dining experiences at Garden + Grain and Copper Table, along with a revamped Old Hickory Steakhouse and the introduction of a new 9,000 square foot event space, Mountain View Pavilion.
EVERYTHING & MORE
A day dedicated only to exploring the new additions could not cover all the resort has to offer. Luxurious rooms with stunning mountain views await, along with nine dining options ranging from Mountain Pass Sports Bar with a 75-foot flat screen TV to a refined Old Hickory Steakhouse experience. Dive into fun at Arapahoe Springs Water Park, where you can zip down waterslides or float along the lazy river. Join in on special activities on expansive lawns and outdoor spaces, or pamper yourself at the award-winning Relâche Spa and state-of-the-art fitness center.
The verdict is in: Gaylord Rockies Resort is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Colorado getaway. From diverse dining experiences to exciting entertainment options and luxurious spa treatments, you’re in for a good time. Plus, if you’re a Colorado local, here’s an insider tip: Colorado residents can take advantage of up to 20% off their stay, including free self-parking, by using code "L9Z." To book rooms, packages, spa treatments and buy event tickets, visit GaylordRockies.com
THIS SUMMER
ON THE WATER
Where to Stand Up Paddle Board and Kayak
ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WATKINS
In the dancing mirage of Colorado’s desert heat, I consider summertime as an invitation to live life to its fullest. Fueled by longer days this season empowers me to seek adventure on my paddle board in the coolness of the water under the engulfing warmth of the sun. Warmth and coolness, two summer sensations I love. Whether you kayak or paddle board, here are some great spots to explore this summer.
Photo Credit Cassandra Green
Though it can get busy at Chatfield, the options feel endless when settling in for a day on the lake. I especially love paddle boarding through the aspens, listening to the birds as their chirps echo all around you. Chatfield has beautiful views of the mountain range. Kayaking and SUP are just the beginning of the adventures provided at this reservoir.
A beautiful spot within Bear Creek Lake Park, Big Soda Lake is great for beginners as well as more experienced paddle boarders. It is part of three connected bodies of water causing a current to flow throughout. It’s a great location for families, as they keep the swimmers closer to the beach while paddle boards and kayaks can venture into the deeper water to enjoy the open skies and mountain views.
Staying local, Aurora Reservoir is a gem. With the neighborhood entrances and easy access, you’ll realize a day on the lake is not that far away. You can easily rent equipment and find that perfect staycation spot with sandy beaches and lots of water sport options. This is the perfect spot to take your family and enjoy a peaceful day on the lake.
1. CHATFIELD RESERVOIR
2. BIG SODA LAKE
3. AURORA RESERVOIR
Nestled behind Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is a small town with such charm. Connected with Shadow Mountain Lake, the waters stretch across the valley. This scenic location is both adventurous for a group of friends as well as a perfect romantic getaway. This is the perfect spot to turn off your phone, unplug and enjoy fresh mountain air and nature.
Scenic, peaceful and similar in nature to Evergreen Lake, Maroon Lake is a majestic location in Aspen. Yogi paddle boarders venture to this spot for a serene experience. I personally love visiting Aspen during the summer. Maroon Lake’s calm and tranquil waters are definitely on my bucket list to visit.
Sultry and salty. I tend to keep to mountain air more than the tropical refreshments of island life, but I can’t help but include this spot by Makena State Park. Our staff photographer, Abby Watkins caught this moment of two people paddle boarding and it looks like a captivating experience.
5. GRAND LAKE
6. MAUI, HAWAII
4. MAROON LAKE
Photo Credit Cassandra Green
Photo Credit Abby Watkins
Colorado
To
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
July 4th Fireworks Show
Salisbury North | 9:30 PM
This year on Independence Day, the Town of Parker will hold a remote-only fireworks display that can be viewed throughout the community. The Town will once again develop and promote a list of recommended viewing locations prior to the holiday.
JULY 13TH
KIDS' TRY-ATHLON
H2O'Brien Pool, 10795 Victorian Dr. Parker, CO | 6:30 AM
This event is about fun over competition. Boys and girls of all ability levels show their skills in three events: swimming, biking and running. Come on, kids, TRY it out!
JULY 15TH
13th Annual Caleb Calvin Woods Memorial Golf Event
The Pinery Country Club, 6900 N Pinery Pkwy, Parker, CO | 7:30 AM
The Caleb Calvin Woods Memorial Golf Event is officially a teenager! It’s year thirteen! Just like any teenager it already has attitude!!!! It's a go for July 15th 2024 with a 9 a.m. shotgun start. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. You’ll be able to warm up with a Bloody Mary along with breakfast burritos.
JULY 18TH
Douglas County Libraries Hosts Summer Thriller Author Series
Douglas County Libraries | 7:00 PM
DCL is excited to present a thrilling author series this summer! The library will host New York Times bestselling thriller authors Daniel Silva (July 18) and Brad Thor (July 24). Coffee, tea and desserts will be provided at each event, and books will be sold by Books Are Awesome of Parker. Details and tickets are available at DCL.org/Featured-Events
JULY 19TH
Tiny Tots: Explore the Outdoors
Parker Fieldhouse | 9:30 AM
These playful summertime concerts will have audiences exploring nature and the world around them from inside the orchestra. Tiny Tots programs are immersive, interactive concerts for kids 7 and under (and their adults) to get truly “inside the orchestra.”
JULY 25TH
The Parker Community Theater presents Footloose
Youth Edition Summer of 2024
Parker United Methodist Church, 11805 S Pine Dr. Parker, CO | 7:00 PM
The Parker Community Theater is back and excited to present Footloose to Parker and allow the musical theater community an opportunity to be part of this iconic musical July 25 - July 27, 2024.
Want to be featured?
