5280 Magazine

For over 30 years, 5280 magazine has served its readers as an essential guide to life in the Mile-High City and beyond. Throughout those three decades, the publication has stayed true to its original mission: proudly locally owned and strongly committed to delivering award-winning journalism that tells Denver’s story with authority and style. Each month, 5280 covers the greatest and latest in dining, culture, wellness, travel, and adventure content.

5280 Magazine

Back To The Future

ANDY UHLER • Writer

View From The Top

Loitering Welcome • The Denver Design Center needed a renovation. For more than 40 years, the South Broadway complex was packed with showrooms that catered to interior designers. Although the public gained admittance about a decade ago, they weren’t exactly encouraged to browse. That changed in 2025, when the newly branded Denver Design District began adding galleries, restaurants, and events. Here, five spots worth perusing.

A Diabolical Detox • Izba Spa Denver promises a new outlook on life, even if its therapists have to beat it out of you.

Political Intrigue • Once characterized by its fickle, purplish tendencies, Colorado has turned a sturdy shade of blue: Republicans haven’t won a statewide race since 2016. But that doesn’t mean next month’s election won’t be a thriller. Democrats have targeted two GOP-held congressional districts as possible flips in their quest to take back the U.S. House of Representatives, while a professed international man of mystery is keeping the governor’s race…interesting.

Back To The Big Screen • While theaters continue to tank, this Denver film distributor is cleaning up at the box office.

Son Shine

Global Entry • Even if you can’t locate Uruguay on a map, you’ll find the South American country’s only metro-area restaurant comfortingly familiar.

Distorted Reality • Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former Denver fracking CEO, wants to root out fossil fuel hypocrisy—just not his own.

25 BEST RESTAURANTS • FROM THE HILLS OF TUSCANY TO THE STREETS OF TAIPEI TO THE LOUISIANA BAYOU, DENVER CHEFS ARE MAKING GLOBAL MORE LOCAL THAN EVER.

ALL ABOARD • Trains are the transportation du jour for those willing to trade speed for spectacular scenery. And luckily for us, Colorado is home to some of the country’s most engrossing, educational, and entertaining rail rides.

“PRAIRIE DOGS!” • SHOUTS THE SIXTYSOMETHING WOMAN IN THE SEAT IN FRONT OF ME.

TIME TRAVEL • On southern Colorado’s Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, it’s more about moving through time than space. Here, three bygone periods you may encounter on this National Historic Landmark railway—while chugging full steam ahead.

SEASONAL ROUTES • The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s true destination isn’t its namesake southwestern towns. It’s the middle of nowhere—specifically, the stretches of the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness it passes through. Here’s how to leverage the mid-transit stops at Needleton and Elk Park for backcountry exploration all year round.

ROUND TRIPS • These short outings are long on scenery and entertainment. Find one that matches your mission—or those of your traveling companions.

THE GRAND TOUR • Dodge traffic, sky-high gas prices, and the kids’ relentless “Are we there yet?” queries by leaving your ride in the garage and letting Amtrak deliver you to a car-free autumn adventure on the Western Slope.

WHISTLE STOP • The Colorado Railroad Museum takes visitors on a trip through the state’s transportation history—and on train rides around its grounds.

50c HOW MADE THE MODERN NBA • Fifty years ago, the NBA merged with a struggling rival league, allowing Denver and three other franchises into its lofty ranks....