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City Cast Denver

Keep It Local features spotlights on a local businesses we love and a timely set of personal, curated and neighborly recommendations that will help you live your best Mile High life. So, if you’re ready to ditch the national chains, e-commerce giants, and big box stores,

 sign up now for the new weekly newsletter from City Cast Denver

Michelle Polizzi

In a world where big corporations seem to get a slice of all our paychecks, it’s nice when we can pay someone directly for the services they provide. That’s exactly what Keep it Local is all about. So enjoy this roundup of independently owned cabins and mountain getaways near Denver, all of which you can book directly with the owner.

🏕️ The Cabins at Country Road (Evergreen)

The Lariat Loop is a scenic byway connecting historical landmarks between Evergreen and Morrison. 

 are the perfect place to stay while exploring this iconic route, which stretches about 40 miles. Each of the eight cabins in this resort has a unique interior with different offerings. Stay in The Columbine Cottage for a steam shower and a luxury kitchen, or opt for The Dreamcatcher for an adults-only escape with cathedral pine ceilings and forest views.

, like breakfast baskets and party decor for special celebrations.

 is a spacious getaway tucked between aspens and evergreen trees. Just a 90-minute drive from Denver, this retreat sleeps eight people and has three bathrooms — plus a fireplace and a hot tub for chilly mountain nights. It’s common to see wildlife such as moose, deer, and birds of prey from the large front windows, and the easy access to hiking, plus views of Mount Blue Sky, make this the perfect escape.

This cabin caters to families with small children with a high chair, bassinet, and other essentials provided.

 is situated in Big Thompson Canyon, just a few minutes outside of Estes Park. With easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park but enough distance from the crowds, this property includes seven cabins that were built in the early 1900s but have been upgraded with modern amenities like private hot tubs, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen televisions. Owners Jeanine and James Pruitt welcome guests with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, and each cabin has its own name with a coordinated quilt pattern on the beds to match. Plus, there’s 16 acres of hiking trails steps outside of your door.

All the cabins here are pet-friendly, but require a $35 fee per pet.

🏜️ Cliff House Lodge & Hot Tub Cottages (Morrison)

Nestled in the quaint town of Morrison, the 

 has shared common spaces in the historic home, plus eight hot tub cottages. The close proximity to Red Rocks makes this a popular place to stay after a concert at the iconic venue; however, it’s also a prime spot for exploring the local art galleries, eateries, and events that take place in the town of Morrison, which is often overlooked by concertgoers.

There’s an on-site wellness coordinator who provides massages and therapeutic add-ons, like cupping and reflexology.

Independently Owned Mountain Getaways in Colorado

Independently Owned Mountain Getaways

Keep It Local

Vintage. Nostalgic. Cozy. That’s the vibe you’ll find at 

, a group of four historic wooden buildings in Clear Creek County, Colorado.

They’ve been in operation as nightly rentals since their construction in 1951 by Vera and Edgar Scott, and the cabins hold much of their original charm. Today, owners Lindsay and Alex Dalton are following in the footsteps of the Scotts, creating a place where people can relax, escape from the stressors of everyday life, and get in touch with the beauty of Colorado's nature.

“We closed on the property at the end of March 2020, standing outside the title company wearing masks and gloves as COVID was just beginning to change everything,” Lindsay says. “It was a strange time to start a new business, but looking back, I can't imagine this story starting any other way.”

The location near Idaho Springs means Flying Moon Cabins are less than an hour's drive from Denver on I-70. Still, they feel a world away. Each of the four cabins has the same size and layout, plus all the essentials — dishware, a living and eating area, a stall shower, and a french press. But they all have different decor and original names that define their identity. Still, Lindsay says the creek is the heart of the cabins.

“Being tucked into this narrow mountain canyon makes the whole place feel hidden away from the rest of the world. It's peaceful in a way that's hard to explain until you're sitting outside with a cup of coffee just listening to the creek.”

Flying Moon Cabins are pet friendly, too, and they’ve hosted everything from birthday gatherings to tiny elopement ceremonies. They start at $140 a night and sleep two people, making them an affordable alternative to major booking sites.

Best of all, there’s no cell service and no televisions, meaning you can truly disconnect. Yes, there’s Wi-Fi — but chances are, you probably won’t need it.

“We feel incredibly lucky to be the current stewards of this little piece of land,” Lindsay says. “Caring for it and sharing it with others has truly been the opportunity of a lifetime, and it's something we'll never take for granted.”

Why Denverites Love Flying Moon Cabins

Disco balls, refined cocktails, and rainbow jello shots are an unexpected pairing with the game of golf.

In 2022, when the world began opening up after the COVID-19 lockdown, bartenders Samantha Menendez and Jason Danielsen decided that Denver needed a more elevated, inclusive golf bar that redefined what the sport can be — and who can participate.

“You don't have to be a good golfer, you can just come in and hit a couple of the balls and play fun games,” Menendez says. “So if you are a serious golfer, you can bring your clubs and also play courses [virtually]. It's kind of the best of both worlds.”

One Shot Back has multiple bays (semi-private areas) where up to eight people can play at a time, but unlimited people can gather. Comfy couches and wooden bars provide a welcoming area for lounging while you watch friends compete on Trackman devices — some of the highest-tech golf simulators that exist today.

Non golfers can sip on craft cocktails, play games like shuffleboard, darts, or cornhole, and take part in one of One Shot Back’s many summer specials — from half-off golf every weekday to ladies’ nights and all-day happy hour on Thursdays.

“It's definitely more than just a stand around golf simulator type of place, which a lot of them are,” Menendez says. “We're trying to make it more fun for everybody.”

Denver's One Shot Back Has a Golf Simulator, Arcade Games, and More

Why Denverites Love One Shot Back

Summer is the right time to get out there and golf

But there’s a few caveats. Not all of us have extra clubs lying around, or, you know, the skills to actually play. Sometimes it’s too hot for outdoor golf, or the rain washes our plans away. These simulator bars and mini golf spots have all the fun of golf in sweet, approachable packages.

The city’s parks and recreation department runs and maintains 

, featuring two 18-hole mini-golf courses with flowing water hazards and tricky sand traps that mimic a real golf course. This family-friendly spot also has a large water driving range. Kids between ages 3-12 cost just $8 to play, while adults are $12 on weekdays and $16 on weekends.

They’re open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. in the summer months.

If you like to golf alongside mixologist-made cocktails and an elevated space, you can’t miss 

, featuring state-of-the-art golf simulators. Here, there are bar games, snacks, and plenty of places for non-golfers in the group to lounge. And if you want to develop real golf skills, a 

 at The Local Drive provides dedicated one-on-one lessons from a pro (starting at $100 for one hour) to help you dominate the real course.

There’s two locations — one in RiNo and one in the Stanley Marketplace.

 might be the most adventurous mini golf course on our list. Kids and adults of all ages love this 54-hole journey, where players encounter everything from scary dragons and rippling ponds to Wild West saloons. Private parties are popular here, too, and guests who don’t want to play don’t have to pay, which means grandma can come along for the fun.

All you can play golf costs $12 for all ages.

Don’t be fooled by the name — there’s nothing pretentious about this dive bar inspired by the simplicity and good times of the 1970’s. 

 has a custom, nine-hole outdoor putt putt course for adults aged 21 and over, which also means you can bring your (well-priced) beer or cocktails along for the game. After you play, their smashburgers and waffle fries are always a good idea. Just watch out for the alligator on the course!

 here for just $10 — a perk that includes mini golf for the rest of your days.

Where to Play Mini Golf in Denver

Local Spots to Mini Golf

The best gifts, in my opinion, are those that foster meaningful experiences. Especially for parents, who always want a *little* more time with their children — no matter their age. So, here are some outdoors-y local outfitters where you can buy gear to get outside with dad (or father figure) and have a meaningful adventure you’ll both remember.

, a shop that’s helped Denver athletes and adventure enthusiasts find the perfect gear for more than 45 years. In addition to selling everything from pickleball paddles to new skis and lacrosse gear, Sports Plus has consignment opportunities open to the public. Bring in any new or used gear you don’t need, then take home 50% of the profits if it sells within three months.

 to customize a uniform or gear bag with dad’s team colors and logo.

🛶 Confluence Kayak & Ski (Jefferson Park)

 has everything you need to paddle, float, ski, and board your way across the Colorado wilderness. This local shop has a wide selection of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and they have watercraft for rent, too. 

, inflatable paddleboards, canoes, and more online before your next adventure with dad.

Shop online for same-day shipping and in-store pickup.

A 20-minute drive from downtown Denver, you’ll find 

, a destination gear shop that’s been outfitting adventurers for the backcountry for three decades. Bentgate carries some of the most popular outdoor brands today, including Kuhl, Black Diamond, and Patagonia. Whether you want a fishing pole, an e-bike, or a backpacking tent, Bentgate has you covered.

, which helps create the best fit for outdoor shoes, like ski and hiking boots.

Any skier or snowboarder knows it's never too early (or too late?) in the year to upgrade your mountain ‘fit. 

 opened on South Broadway in 2024 with ski clothing and accessories for the whole family. Right now, this shop has a big selection of discounted boots, boards, skis, bindings, and other accessories from last season, making it a great time to get a good deal for dad.

If you need a last-minute gift, consider buying a gift card to Denver Ski Company online — no pickup required.

Denver's best outdoor outfitters perfect for Father's Day shopping.

Where to Shop for Father's Day

Local Shops to Make Dad’s Day

 opened its doors in 1890, when Denver was still a frontier town with dirt roads and horse-drawn wagons. This company’s high-quality craftsmanship of canvas tents provided shelter for ranchers, prospectors, and anyone venturing out into the wilderness west of town.

Today, Colorado Tent Company upholds the same craftsmanship that defined its beginning.

“We've had four owners in 135 years,” company president Harlan Hummer told City Cast Denver. “The thing that's passed from one to the next isn't a logo. It's the standard for how a tent should be built and how long it should last.”

From glamping tents for hospitality businesses to backcountry hunting setups, they’ve got a canvas shelter for everything. Colorado Tent Company has held partnerships with the YMCA and Scouting America, keeping troops safe and secure out in the wild.

The biggest selling point? Colorado Tent Company makes tents designed to last more than 20 years — making them a solid investment. There’s also a 

“We fix tents we built 20, 25, 30 years ago. Some come in from folks who got them from their parents. When you buy a tent from us, we'll repair it for as long as you own it,” Hummer says. “That was the promise in 1890, and it's the promise now.”

In 1940, Colorado Tent Company also created (and later patented) a new type of fishing canvas called 

, which keeps ocean catches fresh through evaporation, without the need for ice. “Soak it in water, and as that water evaporates from the linen, it pulls heat out and keeps the contents inside cool.”

This innovative design was once carried by L.L. Bean and Orvis, and Colorado Tent Company is the only brand making this product in the US today.

“We're the oldest continuously operating canvas tent manufacturer in the country, and we're right here in Denver. Local isn't a marketing angle for us,” Hummer says. “It's where the cutting tables are, where the sewing happens, and where your tent comes back when it needs work decades from now.”

Colorado Tent Company's high-quality craftsmanship of canvas tents have provided shelter for ranchers, prospectors, and anyone venturing out into the wilderness west of town since 1890.

How Colorado Tent Company Makes the Best Camping Gear

Why Denverites Love Colorado Tent Company

 has helped riders find their perfect bicycle since 1983.

This longstanding, independent shop in Rosedale doesn’t just specialize in fixing and selling bicycles — they specialize in helping you find the perfect fit.

“A bike fit can make or break the riding experience on a performance road or gravel bike,” says Michael Bowers, who co-owns Campus Cycles with Mark Velat.

You can find Bowers and Velat working in the shop nearly every day of the week, along with their lead fitter, Ned Grant, who’s worked in the field for more than 25 years.

Bowers adds that a bike fit can help in a variety of circumstances, whether you're experiencing any pain or discomfort on your bike, or you just want to be set up as efficiently as possible.

“Campus Cycles is an all-inclusive bike shop with bikes and accessories for the entire family,” Bowers adds.

This includes a complete line of children's bikes, with a “Trade In, Trade Up” program that lets kids swap a too-small or older bike for a more well-suited ride. This shop participates in Colorado's e-bike tax credit program, too, so you can use your voucher here.

2026 National Bike Dealer’s Association People’s Choice Award

. This honor, which is determined by community votes and surveys, demonstrates the expertise at Campus Cycles and their commitment to engaging neighbors of all ages and abilities.

“Bikes are supposed to be fun,” Bowers says. “From beginner or newbie to experienced rider, everyone here is treated like they belong.”

Why Denverites Love Campus Cycles

At first glance, the following local businesses might not have a lot in common. What’s the link between a car repair garage, a gift store, and a tattoo parlor? Well, my friend, they’re all LGBTQ+-owned! So get familiar with these top-tier local businesses and make a plan to support them this month (and year-round!).

Lux Forge has been handcrafting fine and custom jewelry in Denver for more than a decade. They focus on creating inclusive, gender neutral pieces, like this 

 in recycled sterling silver. Lux Forge also has a 

 featuring colorful natural gemstones adorning necklaces, rings, bracelets, and beyond.

One of Lux Forge’s unique offerings is custom jewelry design, which allows you to bring a personalized piece to life.

Kitschy. Kooky. Campy. These are just a few words that 

 uses to describe itself, but to really understand this shop, you have to see it for yourself. Look for the plush blind boxes (mystery boxes with a cute stuffy inside), cult-movie-themed prayer candles, and punk-themed puzzles that fill this store to the brim.

12 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

This car repair shop takes its name from Judy Garland, the Hollywood star and longtime advocate of the LGBTQ+ community. Embodying Garland’s spirit, 

 offers a transparent pricing list and affordable services, like a $35 oil change and a free 30-minute inspection. If getting your car fixed feels overwhelming in more ways than one (hi!🙋), Good Judy has your back.

There are plenty of tattoo shops around Denver, but few are women and LGBTQ+-owned. 

 is both of those things, and their team of artists specializes in everything from pet portraits to trippy surrealism. Mashroom’s website helps explain the different styles they offer, such as Trash Polka Tattoos, a black and red design featuring blackwork, realism, and “trash."

To make an appointment, begin by filling out their 

 is a collective of around 10 different businesses that was started by 

, a non-binary and disabled creator in Denver. Fresh flower arrangements, bolo ties, crystals, and handmade pottery trinkets are among the many things for sale at this plant and gift shop. There’s also a $5 plant section and 

, a plus-sized vintage and secondhand shop selling curated, gender affirming pieces.

 with shop updates (a few videos have even gone viral).

What are your favorite LGBTQ+ shops in Denver?

 Send me your recs, and I’ll keep sharing them throughout June!

RE: My Favorite LGBTQ+ Shops

Share Your Favorite LGBTQ+ Shops

These are the best places in Denver for Pride Month.

Denver's Best LGBTQ+ Shops

LGBTQ+ Owned Shops in Denver

Decades before the 3600 block of Navajo Street was lined with modern apartment buildings and trendy pilates studios, it was filled with galleries. The 

Navajo Street Art District thrived in the 1990s

, but rising rents, taxes, and gentrification pushed the galleries elsewhere, all but erasing this cultural hub from the map.

Dot Williams and her partner, Jamie Richards, are determined to bring it back to life. The pair purchased a coffee shop on the corner of the block that was closing down, reopening as Art Club Coffee.

Their mission: To create a queer-owned space where people feel safe and welcome. That goes for patrons, but also for artists who want to display their work along the gallery-inspired walls. “It is completely free to submit your work,” Williams told me in a recent conversation. “You are welcome to sell it and we don't take any commission — we just want people to show their art.”

Williams and Richards also wanted the coffee shop to function as an inclusive third space for their neighbors. They do so by hosting free events, such as a creative and coffee night every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. In true Navajo Street Art District fashion, their space attracts creatives of every kind.

“We've had coders coding games, or DJs building set lists. We've had oil painters, crocheters, knitters, collage artists, illustrators, kind of all walks of creativity,” Williams says. “You're also invited to just come and see — you don't even have to craft or buy anything.”

Art Club Coffee is currently hosting a curated gallery show featuring queer artists, which visitors can view throughout June.

Another way Art Club Coffee helps people feel comfortable is their atmosphere of old-school items that brings people back to a simpler time.

“It's a bit of a time warp here. It's got a lot of analog TVs and nostalgic touches throughout the space,” Williams said.

And they are also, at all times, very proudly queer. “We're here to celebrate each other and create a safe space where people can be themselves.”

Why Art Club Coffee is one of Denver's best queer-owned spaces.

Why Denverites Love Art Club Coffee

850. No, that’s not how many mph you’re gonna go on your new e-bike (why does it *actually* feel like that though??). Rather, 850 is the number of miles of 

 in the Denver area. With a number like that, there’s really no reason not to get around on two wheels. Below, read up on some of the best locally-owned bike shops in town — and we’ll see you out there 😎

Collins’ Bike Shop opened on East Colfax Avenue in 1934, and while it’s now called 

, that space has remained a bike shop for 92 years. You can find remnants of this history sprinkled throughout Z Cycle, from retro Schwinn merchandise on display to the old brick walls that have housed bikes in repair for nearly a century. They’re open daily, and a safety check to evaluate brakes, drivetrains, and other key functionality starts at $66.

Z Cycles services e-bikes, but they must adhere to their 

, you can test drive an e-bike for yourself, get a quick flat fix for your friend for $25, or shop their selection of used kids' bikes. In other words, there is something for the whole family here. This shop also hosts a monthly bike ride for kids and families called 

, where designated route leaders take participants on a safe community ride between a bakery and a park.

They repair all kinds of standard bikes but can only service e-bikes that are Bosch, Shimano, and Flyer.

What’s better than getting your bike tuned for summer? Learning how to fix it yourself. In addition to fixing and selling bikes, 

 provides a variety of bicycle maintenance classes and repair clinics. This nonprofit also offers 

 nights, which are free, volunteer-run, and open shop hours for women, transgender, and non-binary people who want to learn to fix bikes in a safe, inclusive space.

If a bike feels out of your budget, Bikes Together sells cost-flexible sidewalk bikes starting at $75, but can also teach you how to fix one at a 

Were you lucky enough to get an e-bike voucher this year? Good news — you can use it at 

, which specializes in selling e-bikes (and if you didn’t get a voucher, but you qualify, you’ve got 

). This bike shop began building custom e-bikes 13 years ago, making it an expert in the Denver area. Browse their 

 offers the unique service of converting your regular bike into an e-bike.

 is to help you have your best adventure. Whether you want to get some mountain biking gear or service your road bike, Yawp can help. And if you’re wondering what amount of whimsy to expect alongside this expertise, consider that their name comes from a Walt Whitman poem: “I sound my barbaric 

, but carry other brands, like Salsa and Otso, too.