Denver began as a gold rush town in 1858 and it became the capital of the Colorado Territory in 1861. It's early frontier
economy is described as a wild economic roller coaster as gold and silver booms and market collapses came and went. Today's
Denver presents a dramatic profile of glass and steel towers surrounded by a dramatic western mountain skyline. Denver's
character is cosmopolitan with a western flavor. Contemporary structures adjoin restored Victorian structures to provide
an interesting urban blend. Denver has interesting districts such as: Larimer Square which is a revitalized 1880s
shopping and dining area, Sakura Square, a Japanese cultural center, LoDo or Lower Downtown which is a renovated warehouse
district now featuring antiques, galleries, restaurants, and night spots, and the 16th Street Mall which has a variety of
galleries, gift shops, boutiques, restaurants and variety shops tied together by a free shuttle service. Denver
offers a variety of museums including a well regarded Art Museum and the Black American West Museum. There is a botanic
garden, a zoo, and a marine life park, and the US Mint. The Performing Arts Complex occupies 4 blocks and has more than 9000
theater seats. For sports fans, the city has major league teams in football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. The
Denver Marriott Hotel City Center is located one block from the 16th Street Mall. The hotel features a full service spa,
indoor swimming pool, exercise equipment, and in house restaurant. All rooms are equipped with a hair dryer, iron and ironing
board, and voice mail. Valet parking is available at the hotel for $15./day Monday-Thursday and $19/day Friday-Sunday, with
no additional charge for in and out. There are nearby garages available for $7.50/ day with a $5. in/out charge. Airport
shuttle service is readily available for about $30. round trip. Shuttles run about every 20 minutes. Expect 30-45 minutes
in travel time from airport to hotel.
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