But the Broncos didn't come close to the Super Bowl this round, and now the new U.S. News rankings have shoved Denver into the number-two spot. (At least that's better than the 51st slot, where Denver recently landed on a GoodCall list.)
Who got the top spot this time? Denver's frequent nemesis, Austin, which earned a 7.8 overall score (out of a possible 10). With a new overall score of 7.5, the Mile High City barely edged out the number-three finisher, San Jose, which took a heavy hit on value to average out at 7.4. What hurt Denver this time? Quality of life, a pathetic 6.8 compared to Austin's 7.3.
Colorado's consolation prize.
Kate McKee Simmons
We'll consider cannabis our consolation prize. Better luck next year, Denver.
Founded in the mid-1800s as a mining hub during the gold rush, Denver has come a long way since its Wild West days. Over time, its residents have evolved from gun-slinging gamblers into an easygoing crowd of ambitious, progressive-minded fitness fanatics and nature lovers who are eager to push the envelope on everything from civil rights to drug laws. Nicknamed the Mile High City for its 5,280-foot elevation (although officially reported as 5,279 feet), Denver's location at the base of the Rocky Mountains provides a gateway to a slew of outdoor pursuits, although it is probably best known for its devout ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
To clarify a common misconception, Denver is not a mountain town. It actually takes at least an hour to drive to the Rockies. But there are some great places for recreating within a 30-minute drive of downtown, such as Red Rocks Park and Cherry Creek State Park.
Some might say that Denver is experiencing a gold rush of a different color: green. After Colorado residents voted to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012, Denver has seen a surge in cannabis-related commerce, from dispensaries to magazines to high-tech paraphernalia like vaporizers, rolling papers, lotions and storage containers – and the industry is just gaining speed.
