In this week's "It's a Date," we respond to a request from Matthew, who's says he's been dating a girl for a little while, and they have been on nice dates at dive bars, aqua golf and a comedy club. "I want to take her somewhere romantic and memorable where we can share a moment away from the crowds without breaking the bank," Matthew writes. "She lives in Capitol Hill and I live near Lowry, so we are used to driving a little bit to see each other."
If you really want to get out, Matthew, check out our list of great spring hikes near Denver. In the meantime, you can refer to this sweet and savory urban itinerary:
Huston Lake Park
850 South Bryant Street
Start your date with a stroll and some fresh air away from the crowds at Huston Lake Park, which won Best Park to Be Alone in this year's Best of Denver. The 34-acre park in southwest Denver is also a great place to enjoy amenities like pickleball courts and a softball field, but the real draw is its lesser-known, locals-only status. Lie in the grass under a shady tree, sit on a park bench overlooking the lake or walk a paved trail for endless tranquility and whispers of sweet nothings.
Columbine Steakhouse
300 Federal Boulevard
Once you've worked up an appetite, take a five-minute drive (or a twenty-minute walk) down to Columbine Steak House and Lounge, a restaurant that has been serving up cuts of beef, burgers and fries for more than sixty years. While it may not look like your typical romantic candlelit restaurant, Columbine Steakhouse does serve up a healthy dose of nostalgia, has a few comfy booths, and prices that won't break the bank — the most expensive thing on the menu is $30.50. Just make sure to bring cash, as that is the only payment the steakhouse will accept. "There are no white tablecloths, truffle butter or big-name chefs to be found at Columbine. But what is there is so much more than just a cheap steak dinner," wrote Westword food editor Molly Martin in her 2022 review of Columbine Steakhouse. "This is a place where you can bond with strangers over good, simple food that's supremely satisfying."
The Cake Bar
214 East 13th Avenue
After your steak dinner, head back to Capitol Hill for some dessert at the Cake Bar, a vegan bakery that has won plenty of accolades from Westword. Don't let the word "vegan" stop you: While all of the Cake Bar's treats are plant-based, nut-free, vegan and certified kosher, vegans and non-vegans alike find the goodies straight-up delicious. Macarons, cupcakes and cups of cake are available, and you can choose from a range of cake and frosting flavors. Prices range from $6 to $13.
Pro Tip: Capitol Building Steps Pondering Time is best done in the evening or at night.
Kristen Fiore
200 East Colfax Avenue
Cross the street and climb the steps of the golden-domed Colorado State Capitol for a surprisingly romantic and secluded view of the city while you eat your cake. You aren't really a Cap Hill resident if you haven't found yourself lost in thought or in the throes of a deep conversation on these steps. Don't knock it until you try it. And just FYI — there is a plaque on the west steps that indicates 5,280 feet. What you do with that information is up to you. But might be the perfect spot to join the Mile High Club if you're feeling amorous enough. It would make for a pretty memorable end to the date.
Would you like us to plan an itinerary for your next date? Send a note with your price range, general interests and location preferences to It's a Date at [email protected].
