Denver is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, so it should come as no surprise to learn that there are a lot of new people in the state. If you happen to be one of these people, welcome to the Centennial State! We are so glad you are here and contributing to all of the things that make this one of the best states in the country (in our opinion!). Depending on where you moved from you may find a lot of similarities and a lot of differences between your previous home and your new one, but there are some extra special things you should know to help you settle in fully.
14 Things to Know When Relocating to the Colorado:
1. ALTITUDE! With Denver at a mile above sea level and the mountains several miles above sea level, it is wise to know how to handle the changes in altitude for both you and any visitors you might have. Hydrate! Acclimate, especially when exercising at a higher altitude. Nose bleeds and headaches (and overdrinking) are very common here when you first arrive.
2. Hiking Etiquette! It might sound silly, but knowing the rules of the trail will help you to look less like a tourist and more like a local. Be sure to stay on the trail (leave no trace!), keep to the right so other hikers and cyclists can pass safely on the left, give way to uphill hikers, and most importantly, clean up after your dogs.
3. Craft Breweries! A personal favorite, Denver is often referred to as the Napa Valley of Beer, and for good reasons. We have the second largest number of microbreweries in the country (second to Portland, OR). And you will find just about every type of beer you can imagine. Cheers!
4. The weather is incredibly variable and can change on a dime. Dress accordingly. This is actually an awesome bonus. Winter doesn't have to mean 6 months of dreary, freezing, icy days. You might have a foot of snow one day and 70-degree weather the next. It allows you to have the best of all worlds at any given time of year. Because of this variable weather, it is important to always dress (and pack!) in layers. This is especially true for trips to the mountains. It might be scorching in Denver, but you just might encounter a hail storm an hour up into the high country.
5. We take casual chic attire to a whole new level. It isn't unusual to see people in their hiking gear enjoying a meal in a trendy happy hour spot. Or to still be donning your ski gear when you stroll into a popular restaurant in Colorado. Patagonia and North Face is practically our official uniform! It is best to embrace it!
6. Coloradans are happy. No really, we are regularly ranked among the happiest states. Coloradans give southern hospitality a run for their money.
7. Dog lovers rejoice! Pups are definitely revered here in Colorado and will often be found out on hiking trails, on local brewery patios, and at the many dog parks dotted around town. We love our four-legged friends here, so it's best to get on board!
8. Meeting a Colorado native is as rare as spotting a bear in the wild. There are transplants everywhere you look!
9. Marijuana may be legal but it isn't a big deal. No, really. Many outsiders assume we're all enjoying the legalization of marijuana to the fullest, but other than the barrage of marijuana shops every other block you wouldn't even notice.
10. The real estate market is hot! It is an exciting time to invest in Denver real estate with many homeowners enjoying a big surge in the value of their homes over just the past few years. This is expected to continue as Colorado's popularity grows.
11. Fitness is serious business. Even if you consider yourself an active person, it is likely you will find yourself feeling inadequate, especially while you acclimate to the altitude. Huffing and puffing are a right of passage on your outdoor mountain adventures when you move to Colorado.
12. Denver is home to 5 professional sports teams: Denver Broncos (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Rockies (MLB), Colorado Rapids (MLS), Colorado Avalanche (NHL). If you consider yourself a sports enthusiast, you will definitely not get bored here in Colorado!
13. Red Rocks Amphitheater is the premier outdoor venue for enjoying your favorite concerts.
14. Skiing is Religion: There are 32 ski resorts in Colorado, and some of the best snow you will find in the world! Many of the best ski areas are within 2 hours of Denver. Getting a ski pass is a right of passage! 11 of the top 25 ski areas in North America are in Colorado.
Posted by Ashley Johnson on
Leave A Comment