Urban Coral: The Quiet Magnetism of “National Velvet”

In a small concrete amphitheater at the base of the Highland Bridge, a striking crimson form rises, feeling both alien and deeply familiar. “National Velvet” is a vibrant, biomorphic cluster that seems to have sprouted from the city’s hardscape. Created by Denver artist John McEnroe in 2008, the piece is a silent performer on its stage-like platform. Its intense color and tactile surface pull the eye from the surrounding urban flow, offering a moment of organic wonder that connects the LoHi neighborhood to the Platte River valley below.

Commissioned by the Denver Public Art Program, “National Velvet” is born from an elemental act. McEnroe, an artist known for his explorations of natural forms and industrial materials, began by simply squeezing a lump of clay in his hand. He then created molds from hundreds of these unique, intuitive shapes and cast them in a luminous, blood-red polyester resin. The title is a playful nod to the unexpectedly “velvety” texture of the initial casts—a tactile quality that remains visually potent in the final, glossy work, despite its hard surface.

The sculpture’s power lies in its ambiguity. Is it a strange geological formation, a brilliantly colored coral reef, or a living organism emerging from the concrete? Its clustered shapes suggest community, with each unique form contributing to a unified whole. Set against the brutalist gray of its sunken enclosure, the work becomes a study in contrasts: the organic versus the manufactured, the vibrant versus the muted. Its placement invites pause, turning passersby into an audience for its silent, textural monologue on nature’s persistence.

To encounter “National Velvet” is to feel an immediate, sensory curiosity. The sculpture’s glossy sheen reflects the shifting daylight, creating an intricate play of light and shadow across its complex surface. Though cool and hard to the touch, its visual texture is so strong that one can almost feel the imagined softness of its many lobes. Standing before it, with the distant rumble of I-25 and the hum of pedestrians crossing the bridge nearby, the sculpture provides a focal point of intense color and quiet energy—a welcome anomaly in the urban environment.

Getting There & Visitor Info

Parking: The most convenient parking is often found at the northeast end of Platte Street, near the Denver Skatepark, where some free street parking may be available. Metered parking is plentiful along Platte Street.

Accessibility: The sculpture is situated in a paved, open plaza that is fully accessible from the sidewalk. It can be reached on foot from the Platte River Trail, Confluence Park, or the surrounding LoHi and Riverfront Park neighborhoods.

Nearby Amenities: The location is adjacent to the South Platte River Trail system, Confluence Park, and the Denver Skatepark. The shops, cafes, and restaurants of the Platte Street Lifestyle District are just steps away.

A Historic Tribute to Childhood

Nestled near the edge of Ferril Lake in Denver’s City Park, the Children’s Fountain is a graceful and contemplative sculpture that captures the innocence and curiosity of youth. Designed by Max Blondat, a French sculptor from Paris, the piece was originally commissioned in 1912 by Denver Mayor Robert Speer. The design was based on a sculpture created in 1905 and displayed in Düsseldorf, Germany. The fountain was installed in Denver in 1913 and was initially known as the “Dusseldorf Fountain.”

Carved from marble, the sculpture depicts three children peering over a rocky ledge, curiously observing three frogs below. Originally, the entire piece, including the frogs, was sculpted from marble. In 1918, the fountain was relocated to its current spot beside Ferril Lake. The following year, in 1919, it officially received the name Children’s Fountain. Over time, the frogs were recast in bronze to preserve their whimsical charm. In 1948, local sculptor Gladis Coldwell-Fisher restored the piece, adding her own personal touch by using molds taken from her children. A small moat was added around the fountain to frame the sculpture and protect it from wear. Max Blondat, the French sculptor, was known for his realistic and sentimental style, often capturing moments of quiet observation and wonder. In the Children’s Fountain, he portrays the children with expressions of gentle curiosity, their gaze fixed on the frogs below. This interaction between the children and the frogs could symbolize the simple joys and discoveries of childhood, a moment of innocent fascination with the natural world.

The fountain underwent another significant restoration in 1995, funded by the Colorado State Historical Society and the citizens of Denver. Though it no longer functions as a working fountain, the sculpture continues to invite quiet reflection. Park visitors can sit on benches placed both in front of the sculpture and overlooking the lake behind it—offering peaceful views of this gentle and expressive work of public art.

Getting There & Visitor Info

The best access point for visiting the Children’s Fountain is via the parking circle near the southwest corner of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Drivers should enter the park from East Montview Boulevard at Colorado Boulevard, then follow the internal road west to the roundabout. From there, it’s a short walk along Ferril Lake Loop to reach the fountain. The setting is serene, with shady trees, tranquil lake views, and benches nearby—making it a perfect stop for a moment of rest or reflection.

A Scenic Gateway to Denver’s Largest Urban Lake

The pier at Sloan’s Lake Park provides a serene vantage point over Denver’s largest urban lake, offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the city skyline. This modest wooden pier extends into the lake, serving as both a visual anchor and a quiet retreat for parkgoers. Situated near the intersection of West 17th Avenue and Raleigh Street, on the revitalized southeast shore, the pier functions as a central point for gathering, reflection, and recreation. Visitors fish, photograph sunsets, or simply pause during their walks along the 2.6 mile loop trail.

Though Sloan’s Lake itself dates back to the mid-1800s—reportedly formed when Thomas Sloan struck an underground aquifer while digging a well—the pier is a much more recent enhancement to the park’s amenities. It complements nearby upgrades including picnic areas, restrooms, playgrounds, and native plant landscaping introduced in recent years as part of city-led improvement efforts.

A View for Every Season

From the pier, the lake’s calm surface mirrors cottonwood trees in fall, snow-covered peaks in winter, and the electric orange hues of Colorado’s summer sunsets. On weekends, it’s common to see paddleboarders drifting past, flocks of Canada geese crossing low over the water, and neighbors gathering for early morning yoga or evening strolls.

For photographers and nature lovers, the pier is a favorite spot for birdwatching or catching the moment when Denver’s ever-changing skies reflect in the rippling lake. The unobstructed line of sight from the pier makes it a year-round destination for landscape views and quiet contemplation.

Accessibility and Park Amenities

The pier is accessible via paved paths, making it friendly to wheelchairs and strollers. Parking is available nearby along West 17th Avenue or in designated lots within the park. Visitors will also find rentable electric scooters and bike racks near the entrance for alternative transportation. The surrounding park features open lawns for picnicking and seasonal events, making the pier a perfect waypoint in a full day’s outing at Sloan’s Lake.

Expo Park: A Hidden Gem in Aurora, Colorado

Expo Park in Aurora, CO is a popular 57-acre park that offers a wide variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park features several sports fields and courts, a playground, picnic areas, and a lake where visitors can go fishing or paddle boating.

Located at 10955 E Exposition Ave, Expo Park is open to the public from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. The park is a great place for people to enjoy outdoor activities and appreciate the natural beauty of Colorado.

One of the highlights of Expo Park is its 18-hole disc golf course. Disc golf is a fun and challenging activity that combines elements of frisbee and traditional golf. The course winds through the park’s natural landscape, providing players with a unique and enjoyable experience. The course is open year-round and is free to play.

In addition to disc golf, Expo Park is home to several other notable recreational facilities. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy baseball, softball, and soccer fields, as well as volleyball and basketball courts. The park also has a skate park for skateboarders and inline skaters to practice their skills.

Expo Park is also known for its public art installations, which add to the park’s cultural significance and natural beauty. The “Aurora Akimbo” sculpture by David Griggs is a popular attraction that serves as a colorful gateway to the park.

Expo Park has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century when it was used as a fairgrounds for the annual Tri-County Fair. The park has since evolved into a beloved community hub, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities throughout the year.

Overall, Expo Park in Aurora, CO is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate public art, and experience the natural beauty of the area.

Denver’s very own marathon is an event which is organized every year. This event is hosted by the Colfax Marathon Partnership and HAL Sports in the heart of what we know as City Park, a geographical location hard to miss as it’s right next to the Denver Zoo. A lot of the city’s athletes are eager to participate, as this is one of the largest nationally recognized races found within the United States. So it’s no surprise if you hear familiar names from across the state and even worldwide. Check out the post race results through the official channel: Race Results – Colfax MarathonColfax Marathon (runcolfax.org).

To keep you in the loop, this event does have a post run lineup of vendors and gift givers-so if you plan on running, be sure to bring some company, some of your items can be left at bag check before the start if you decide to go it alone. We’ve seen a few of the following sponsors for the event: KPMG, Booz Allen Hamilton, Davis Graham & Strubs, World Vision, DaVita and PawsCo.

For runners there isn’t generally designated parking, but since it is in the heart of Denver, there is adequate public parking available within the area. City Park also has public parking available on both the inner and outer Northeast corner of the park lines, get there early if you hope to catch a spot this close to the starting line.\

The race itself consists of a full 26.2, a half and a relay. You can learn more about the spectator spots here: Colfax Marathon Spectator Guide. For the official breakdown of the race, visit: Denver Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 MilerColfax Marathon (runcolfax.org).

The Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge: A Unique Landmark in Colorado

The state of Colorado is known for its picturesque natural scenery, from the towering Rocky Mountains to the sweeping plains. But nestled in the heart of the Denver metro area is a unique landmark that draws locals and tourists alike: the Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge.

Located in the city of Lone Tree, just south of Denver, this striking pedestrian bridge spans over Lincoln Avenue, connecting the Lone Tree Arts Center and the Lone Tree Library. But what sets this bridge apart from others is its distinctive leaf-shaped design, which evokes the natural beauty of Colorado’s landscapes.

The Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge was designed by Studio NYL, a Boulder-based structural engineering firm that specializes in innovative, sustainable design. The bridge’s leaf shape is not just for aesthetics – it also serves a practical purpose. The design provides extra shade for pedestrians during hot summer months, and it helps to channel rainwater away from the bridge deck, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

But the bridge’s unique design is not the only reason it has become a beloved landmark in the area. The Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge is also a symbol of community and connection. It serves as a gathering place for locals, who use it as a meeting spot for events and festivals. And it has become a popular spot for photo opportunities, with visitors snapping pictures of the bridge and its stunning views of the Colorado mountains.

The Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge has also been recognized for its innovative design and engineering. In 2014, it won a National Steel Bridge Alliance Prize for Creative Design, which recognizes outstanding achievements in engineering and architecture.

But beyond its design accolades, the Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge is a testament to the power of collaboration and vision. It was built through a public-private partnership between the city of Lone Tree, Douglas County Libraries, and the Lone Tree Arts Center, with funding from local businesses and community members.

As Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet said at the bridge’s opening in 2013, “This bridge is a symbol of community, cooperation and partnership. It represents our commitment to building a vibrant community that values art, culture and quality of life.”

Today, the Lone Tree Leaf Pedestrian Bridge stands as a shining example of innovative design, community spirit, and the natural beauty of Colorado. It is a landmark that continues to inspire and delight visitors from around the world.

Luz de Denver: Exploring the Iconic Angel Wings Sculpture in Downtown Denver

Luz de Denver is a public art sculpture located in downtown Denver, Colorado that has quickly become an iconic landmark of the city. This beautiful sculpture is a pair of angel wings that stands tall and proud, and it has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

The sculpture was inspired by the original “Wings” sculpture created by Mexican artist Jorge Marín, and it was installed in 2018. The sculpture is made out of steel and stands at 10 feet tall. It is located in the heart of downtown Denver, on the corner of 14th and Champa streets.

The meaning behind the sculpture is what truly makes it special. The angel wings represent the idea of community, diversity, and inclusivity. It is a symbol of hope and unity, and it serves as a reminder to all who see it that we are all connected, and that we should work together to make our communities stronger and more welcoming.

Jorge Marín is an internationally recognized artist known for his bronze sculptures that explore themes of humanity, beauty, and identity. His original “Wings” sculpture has been installed in cities all over the world, and it has become a beloved symbol of hope and unity.

Visitors to La Luz de Denver are encouraged to take photos with the sculpture and share them on social media using the hashtag #LuzDeDenver. The sculpture has become a popular spot for tourists, and it is not uncommon to see people lined up to take photos with the beautiful wings.

The location of Luz de Denver is also convenient for visitors who want to explore other parts of the city. The sculpture is located near several popular restaurants, bars, and shops, and it is within walking distance of other popular attractions such as the Denver Art Museum, the Colorado State Capitol, and the 16th Street Mall.

Overall, Luz de Denver is a beautiful and meaningful sculpture that serves as a symbol of hope and unity in the heart of downtown Denver. Whether you are a tourist or a local, this sculpture is definitely worth a visit. So, make sure to stop by, take some photos, and appreciate the beauty and significance of this iconic landmark.

If you’ve lived in Denver for a year or longer, then you’ve probably seen Bonnie Brae Ice Cream while traveling through the Washington Park neighborhood and it would be no surprise if you’ve seen groups of people standing outside of the creamery on a warm sunny afternoon.

Since its inception, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream has stuck to its location on South University Boulevard just across from the Eugene Field Denver Public Library branch. It’s a great stop if you have extra time to pass. It’s also just a few minutes south of the Cherry Creek Shopping Center.

With its vintage interior, it strikingly resembles that of the majority of other ice cream shops throughout the United States. Bonnie Brae Ice Cream recently accomplished its 30th year of business in Denver, that’s quite some time to be had in mastering the art of the ice cream scoop.

If you are planning to visit, there is parking just off of the main road.

Honest Food Made by Family

A fairly new establishment within the City Park West neighborhood has been around for 3 years. The name itself we have to admit makes it sound a bit artsy, there’s not a better way to put it when you step foot inside of this pizzeria.

Unlike much of the local pizza places in Denver, this one stands out uniquely as it strikes anyone walking into the venue as gourmet. But, given the founders’ reputations, gourmet is definitely a plausible title.

White Pie has specials on Mondays…

As if the food alone isn’t enough, keep in mind that White Pie not only caters to families, but it also serves those of you who prefer wine with your ‘za. Did someone say Fat Sully’s competition?

For any interested in a small time cinema, Chez Artiste Theatre has exactly that to offer. If you’re not interested in the hustle of a large theatre like the ones AMC has to offer, this would be ideal as a neighborhood community offering.

While the theatre isn’t glamorous, it’s not one you want to write off. The seating area is moderately sized. The cinema plays some newer releases, but mostly independent films.

Even though the theatre itself has seen its hand of ownership change a couple of times, it has kept its local familiarity. In 2012 the theatre had undergone renovations, one specific change was the leather seating, so comfort can be expected.

Chez Artiste Theatre is located in the University Hills neighborhood, right across the street from the Schlessman Family YMCA building. Parking shouldn’t be a problem as there’s a designated lot right outside of the venue.