From Bayou to the Rockies: A quick trip for a cousin’s wedding.
Denver did not disappoint! It was so nice getting to see family and spend some time not in Louisiana for a change. We had a little free time to explore a few sights, and honestly — I wish we could’ve stayed a couple more days.
TSA wasn’t the nightmare I feared it would be (a small miracle in itself), both in New Orleans and Denver. We rented through Alamo, who shuttled us over to pick up our car. Heads up — you’re responsible for your own pre-departure vehicle inspection, so take photos of everything before you leave the lot. Also, they’ll charge an additional driver fee if the second driver doesn’t live in the same household as the main renter. Once we hit the road, everything went smoothly.
We stayed at the Hampton Inn in Lakewood, which turned out to be a great choice. It’s clean, quiet, and conveniently close to everything — about 45 minutes from the airport. The only downside? If you’re someone who likes cold showers, this isn’t your hotel. That water stayed hot, no matter what setting you tried.
Our first sightseeing stop was Red Rocks Park, which was absolutely stunning. We could only visit the exterior since the amphitheater was closed for an evening performance, but the view alone was worth the stop. Later, we drove over to Forsberg Iron Spring Park, where the trees were showing off their fall colors — golds, reds, and deep oranges everywhere you looked. From the valley, you could even see Red Rocks in the distance. It was the kind of view that makes you pause and just breathe it all in.
We also made time for Garden of the Gods, one of Colorado’s true gems. The park has multiple walking trails that wind through dramatic red rock formations, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some rams or other local wildlife. The view of Pikes Peak from there is breathtaking — definitely one of those postcard moments.
The wedding was held at the Humphrey Mansion, with the reception at 1630 Rooftop, both absolutely beautiful venues. Downtown Denver, on the other hand, reminded me that big cities always find a way to make money — parking is either for one hour or twelve, and if you get it wrong, the tow company will be happy to step in!
We had lunch at my great aunt’s house one day, and I’ll never get over her view. I could’ve sat on that porch forever, watching the landscape stretch out beneath the mountains.
We did get a little taste of home thanks to Hurricane Priscilla — figures! Luckily, the bad weather only stuck around for a day.
I had hoped to try a western-style chuckwagon dinner while we were there, but the timing didn’t work out. We did, however, find a great restaurant near the hotel — Old Chicago — where the food and service were so good we went back a second time.
Overall, there wasn’t a single disappointment. Denver was a mix of family, nature, great food, and just enough city adventure to keep things interesting. Still… my bucket list has a few unchecked boxes, so I guess that means I’ll just have to go back.
