Smalltown Vibe

A winter change of scenery without the mountain traffic awaits

By Heather Shoning

Of course, Pearl Street is magical in the winter, but sometimes it’s nice to have a change of scenery for a weekend—and without the mountain traffic! Skip the I-70 crawl and plan a winter staycation in Denver’s own playground of style—Cherry Creek North. With its walkable streets, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and an ever-evolving dining scene, this 16-block neighborhood proves that you don’t need ski passes or packed suitcases to feel transported. A weekend here has a vibe like home, but with a big city feel. Start a long weekend on Friday afternoon, and wrap it up with a world-class Sunday afternoon show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Indulge in Local Flavors

Start your evening at Forget Me Not, a cocktail bar that’s equal parts moody and magical, where mixologists turn drinks into art. If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, Quality Italian serves handmade pastas and shareable plates in an atmosphere that balances New York polish with Denver charm. Or try Matsuhisa Denver, chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s namesake restaurant, where sushi and black cod miso taste even better when snowflakes fall outside the window.

For brunch the next day, Local Jones inside the Halcyon Hotel hits the sweet spot between comfort and sophistication. The chilaquiles and bloody marys are worth writing home about—or at least texting your group chat.

Stay in Style

Speaking of the Halcyon, booking a room there instantly elevates your staycation. The vibe is “cool friend’s house meets boutique hotel,” with in-room record players and a rooftop hot tub that’s perfect for winter nights. If your style skews classic luxury, check into Hotel Clio, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Its elegant design and impeccable service make it ideal for a romantic getaway or solo recharge weekend. For something with a modern flair, The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop offers sleek rooms, a heated rooftop pool open year-round, and easy access to the district’s best shops.

Get Cultured

When you’ve dined, sipped, and relaxed your fill, it’s time for some cultural immersion. Catch a Sunday afternoon show on your way home at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. While holiday classics such as “A Christmas Carol” and “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical” are there in December, you can also catch “The Notebook” for the perfect wrap to a romantic weekend away. January offers a variety of funny and dramatic options, including the Tony Award–winning “Six,” the musical sensation in which the six wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak.