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Top 24 Hotels Near Metro State College Auraria Campus
890 Auraria Pkwy #410 Denver, CO
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown
In Denver, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown's placement within an easy stroll of Metro State College Auraria Campus is a key advantage for travelers.
SpringHill Suites features a hot breakfast program anchored in quality and variety, ensuring day starts feel balanced and dependable each visit. Suites highlight open layouts, sofa seating, and entertainment options, offering families and groups flexibility to rest and connect comfortably. The fitness center offers treadmills, resistance equipment, and televisions, letting guests maintain exercise habits and stay balanced daily.
Amenities such as Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a fitness facility, and flexible meeting rooms keep both work and leisure routines supported daily.
Hotel Teatro
Guests at Hotel Teatro can leverage being walkable for some from Metro State College Auraria Campus, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
Hotel Teatro may greet arrivals with polished interiors, professional concierge support, and courteous staff for a refined first impression. Accommodations typically showcase elegant furnishings, refined bedding, and bathrooms with upscale finishes for a sophisticated stay. Property amenities often highlight elegant dining options, spa-style facilities, and polished lounges that frame a luxury environment.
Guests may encounter elegant lounges, wellness facilities, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing polished consistency during travel.
Four Seasons Hotel Denver
The hotel's spot a brief ride from Metro State College Auraria Campus gives Four Seasons Hotel Denver guests a easy way to start their day.
At the counter, Four Seasons prioritizes clarity—ID, payment, room status—then summarizes essentials, ensuring guests leave with confidence and lightened load. Every guest room features cotton sateen sheets and multiple pillow types, ensuring tactile comfort that supports sustained, rejuvenating rest. Coffee corners near the lobby bar serve as low-key interludes where conversations and plans can restart while still surrounded by warmth.
Free Wi-Fi, gym services, spa treatments, conference venues, and family cinemas merge comfort, work, and leisure without breaking flow.
the Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
This convenient commute to Metro State College Auraria Campus enables the Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
DoubleTree provides complimentary lobby coffee taps, giving weary travelers an instant refreshment option that eases the transition from travel. Guest rooms provide Sweet Dreams® bedding with enhanced pillows and linens, ensuring deep restorative sleep to help travelers recover fully. Breakfast areas supply fruit, pastries, and coffee service, giving clarity and dependable nutrition for both leisure and work trips.
Indoor pool, hot tub, fitness room, complimentary Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms provide recharge and productivity, sustaining balance throughout the stay.
Limelight Hotel Denver
This easy ride to Metro State College Auraria Campus allows Limelight Hotel Denver to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the stay unfolds.
At Limelight Hotel Denver, guests often encounter elegant décor, professional luggage service, and attentive reception shaping a polished welcome. Rooms may feature polished décor, premium linens, and spa-style bathrooms that emphasize a refined and luxury-oriented guest retreat. Facilities may feature stylish cocktail bars, full-service dining, and wellness centers that provide a polished and upscale impression.
A visit may include refined dining, spa lounges, EV stations, and Wi-Fi, supporting lifestyle flexibility within a luxury orientation.
Thompson Denver by Hyatt
Guests at Thompson Denver by Hyatt can appreciate being a short drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus, a perk that allows for a more organic and flexible schedule.
Thompson arrival halls focus on texture, regional art, and measured light to align spatial focus and soften transition into place identity. Rooms combine rainfall showers, soaking tubs, and luxury toiletries, grounding personal care in renewal, restoration, and comfort. Shared spa lounges present calm seating, tea service, and scented textures, shaping decompression as communal orientation for wellness.
From restaurants and room-service to fitness access and Wi-Fi, late returns still allow a proper meal, a short workout, and synced calendars.
The Oxford Hotel
Metro State College Auraria Campus is a quick trip from The Oxford Hotel, a layout that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
Arrivals at The Oxford Hotel typically feature stylish lobby seating, courteous doorman support, and polished staff for a sophisticated entry. Guest rooms often highlight spacious layouts, elegant interiors, and in-room espresso machines for a polished and comfortable impression. Amenities typically include elegant lounges, upscale restaurants, and spa-inspired spaces for a sophisticated guest atmosphere.
Accommodations often offer premium bedding, spa-inspired areas, cocktail bars, and Wi-Fi, creating balance across work and leisure needs.
The Crawford Hotel
The hotel offers a strategic position, with Metro State College Auraria Campus a brief ride away, allowing guests to be near the action without being in it.
The Crawford Hotel often highlights a refined reception space with elegant finishes, professional concierge presence, and complimentary infused water. Accommodations may present refined seating, plush bedding, and minibars that offer snacks and beverages to support a polished overnight stay. Shared spaces may present polished bars, refined lounges, and wellness facilities that highlight a luxury-forward guest experience.
A stay may present wellness facilities, fine dining, valet support, and Wi-Fi, providing sophistication and convenience in one retreat.
The Westin Denver Downtown
This practical drive to Metro State College Auraria Campus is a key feature of The Westin Denver Downtown, as it helps for a smooth and simple commute.
Westin situates its Heavenly Bed branding in lobby displays, cues that signal comfort and reinforce brand identity from arrival. Suites highlight hardwood floors, bright lighting, and curated minibars, delivering consistency and convenience in elegant spaces. Guests visiting the pool enjoy shaded cabanas, towel service, and bright lighting, reliable amenities that provide daily relaxation.
Amenities include Wi-Fi, rooftop terraces, buffet breakfasts, and wellness studios, ensuring balance between relaxation and productivity.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center
The primary travel benefit of Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center in Denver is Metro State College Auraria Campus being a simple drive away, ensuring a simple arrival.
Complimentary breakfasts at Embassy Suites each morning reflect dependable hospitality, making daily routines stress-free and consistently supported. Suites include blackout curtains, plush bedding, and sofa beds, balancing privacy and flexibility for both rest and family convenience. Outdoor pools with sun decks and shaded seating provide balanced environments, letting guests unwind or socialize with flexibility.
Indoor pools, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, business centers, and valet parking keep routines simple and reliable for travelers.
Aloft Denver Downtown
For visitors to Denver, Aloft Denver Downtown is a quick drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus, a detail that supports a stress-free travel plan.
Aloft welcomes guests with bold lobby design, open reception, and bright communal zones, making orientation simple and immediately stress free. Guest rooms provide ergonomic desks, bright lighting, and reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring professionals maintain productivity and balance easily. Re:charge fitness areas highlight treadmills, weights, and televisions, allowing guests to keep wellness goals active without interruption.
Guests benefit from W XYZ Bar events, Re:fuel coffee, splash pool areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi, creating social energy with dependable comfort.
Courtyard by Marriott Denver Downtown
From Courtyard by Marriott Denver Downtown, the fast drive to Metro State College Auraria Campus takes just minutes to save valuable time, making travel easy.
With polished desks, community tables, and modular furniture, Courtyard ensures its lobbies provide clarity, comfort, and consistency. Every suite offers sofa seating, mini-fridges, and ergonomic chairs, creating flexible areas for work, dining, or casual relaxation. At the Bistro, evening cocktails, light bites, and casual seating establish routines of connection and relaxation across stays.
With business facilities, breakfast buffets, indoor pools, and self-parking, travelers enjoy dependable amenities across properties.
Tru by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center
The fundamental convenience of a stay at Tru by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center in Denver is the easy drive to Metro State College Auraria Campus, which streamlines the entire process of daily planning.
In Tru spaces, foosball tables, lounge seating, and bright finishes encourage playful connections between travelers during arrivals. In the breakfast space, fruit, yogurt, and waffle toppings allow guests to personalize meals, creating enjoyable and dependable starts. The breakfast station with its Top It bar offers cereals, fruits, and toppings, ensuring travelers enjoy variety and routine each morning.
Guests benefit from complimentary breakfast, game areas, Wi-Fi, and fitness spaces, ensuring a playful balance in daily routines.
Sentral Union Station
This adaptable location means Metro State College Auraria Campus is an easy drive from Sentral Union Station, letting guests travel with ease.
With a resort-style pool, a fitness center, a pet-friendly policy, and an in-unit kitchen, guests can enjoy a high-quality lifestyle. All guest units are professionally managed, combining the unique design of a boutique apartment with the consistent quality of a hotel. Secure, access-controlled parking garages are available at many properties, offering a safe and convenient place for guest vehicles.
A strong set of features like a swimming pool, a fitness center, guest laundry, and a full kitchen adds residential comfort to any journey.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center
From the moment you arrive at Home2 Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center, Metro State College Auraria Campus is a short drive, making for an easy start.
Home2 Suites offers pet-friendly greetings in reception areas, showing attentiveness to diverse guest needs as families check in. Every suite incorporates large fridges, dishwashers, and cookware, supporting longer stays with home-like convenience for families. In the fitness studio, cardio machines, weights, and mats support wellness routines, providing balance for travelers consistently.
Amenities such as EV charging, complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, and Wi-Fi give families simplicity and flexibility daily.
AC Hotel by Marriott Denver Downtown
For guests in Denver, AC Hotel by Marriott Denver Downtown is a simple drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus, a location that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
Reception zones at AC Hotels emphasize minimalist design and clear sightlines, ensuring arrivals feel intuitive, uncluttered, and immediately calm. Guest rooms emphasize ergonomic workstations, bright lighting, and ample outlets, giving travelers reliable setups to sustain productivity daily. AC Lounge settings include communal seating, tapas plates, and wine service, offering dependable evening rituals that foster social ease daily.
Among the amenities are complimentary Wi-Fi, AC Kitchen breakfast, AC Lounge snacks, and meeting rooms, offering balance across daily needs.
The Slate Denver Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, with Metro State College Auraria Campus a short drive away, framing the stay around easy automotive access.
Community tables placed in Tapestry receptions allow colleagues or companions to coordinate next steps while easing into their stay. Rooms come with modern toiletries and plush linens, offering tactile comfort that enhances the sense of care from the moment guests arrive. Fitness centers opening into lounge zones help guests move seamlessly from exercise into relaxation in shared space rhythm.
Event spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast offerings, fitness centers, and valet service remove friction from group and business trips.
Le Meridien Denver Downtown
For a stay where a direct route is beneficial, Le Meridien Denver Downtown is a simple drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus, making it a strategic base for activities.
Le Méridien emphasizes orientation clarity through visible concierge counters and open layouts, ensuring arrivals are stress-free. Each guest room includes ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi, and bedside outlets, supporting productivity with convenience for traveling professionals. In the spa, facials, hydrotherapy, and relaxation lounges refresh travelers, rituals that support daily wellness and consistent care.
Guests enjoy fitness centers, rooftop pools, breakfast spreads, and valet parking, ensuring comfort and wellness blend seamlessly.
Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center
In Denver, Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center's location a straightforward drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus lets guests commute easily before their stay begins.
Lobby markets beside reception at Hyatt Regency stock drinks and travel essentials, giving guests immediate access without leaving the space. Guest rooms feature ergonomic chairs, quiet HVAC systems, and soft linens, supporting both restful sleep and productive routines. Lounge areas with signature cocktails, small plates, and ambient lighting create premium experiences that elevate social time.
Hot breakfast, EV charging, and indoor pools align with flexible meeting rooms, supporting routines that balance work and relaxation.
Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown - Union Station by IHG
The journey from Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown - Union Station by IHG to Metro State College Auraria Campus is a quick drive, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Hotel Indigo complimentary tea or coffee stations show attention to detail, making arrivals feel thoughtful and consistent across properties. Guest rooms provide in-room coffee stations, mini-fridges, and ample outlets, letting guests maintain routines conveniently every day. Meeting rooms designed with projection equipment, tables, and Wi-Fi access provide professional groups with dependable clarity.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet policies join with laundry and fitness, providing consistency for family or business travel.
Budget Inn Denver Downtown
This accessible commute to Metro State College Auraria Campus allows Budget Inn Denver Downtown to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
Guests at Budget Inn Denver Downtown may encounter straightforward check-in, vending machines, and parking access for practical daily routines. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Shared spaces typically feature breakfast rooms, vending areas, and modest lobbies that maintain reliable convenience for all guests.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundry, modest breakfast, and parking, maintaining practical routines for visiting guests.
Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown
Within Denver, Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown is an easy drive from Metro State College Auraria Campus, a detail that delivers a simple way to get around.
Lounge adjacency in Hilton Garden Inn lobbies creates relaxed social spaces, encouraging conversation before guests continue their stay. Each suite includes sofa beds, televisions, and coffee tables, creating flexible environments where families can relax or entertain easily. Breakfast rooms with coffee stations, hot buffets, and attentive service create clarity, ensuring mornings begin with consistency.
Complimentary breakfast, concierge support, fitness studios, meeting facilities, and Wi-Fi connectivity create reliable guest balance.
Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel
From the moment you check in at Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Hotel, Metro State College Auraria Campus is a simple drive, simplifying your itinerary.
Mixology events in Renaissance Hotels lobbies act as subtle rituals, creating lively gatherings that help travelers feel instantly connected. Guest rooms include in-room safes, compact fridges, and generous storage, helping longer stays feel organized and belongings remain secure. The rooftop lounge combines fire pits, panoramic views, and soft seating, creating memorable evening gatherings for relaxation or conversation.
Executive lounge access, hot breakfast service, high-speed connectivity, and self-parking simplify mornings and keep routines consistent.
The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block
The journey from The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block to Metro State College Auraria Campus is a straightforward drive, an advantage that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Guests at The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block may be welcomed with polished interiors, attentive staff, and luggage handling that create a luxury-focused arrival. Rooms typically include upscale décor, premium bedding, and bathrooms with refined finishes that establish a luxury guest experience. Property amenities often showcase fine dining, stylish cocktail lounges, and spa services that reflect a polished and refined retreat.
Guests may enjoy plush bedding, spa-style bathrooms, cocktail lounges, and Wi-Fi, sustaining luxury comfort alongside modern ease.
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Metro State College Auraria Campus Local Area Guide
Welcome to the heart of Denver, where the Metro State University of Denver (MSU Denver) Auraria Campus serves as a vibrant hub for education, culture, and athletics. This guide is designed for students, faculty, visiting teams, and fans attending events at the campus's athletic facilities or exploring the rich academic environment. Discover essential information on navigating the campus, finding nearby accommodations, understanding event day logistics, and enjoying the surrounding urban amenities that make this area a dynamic place to visit. Prepare to immerse yourself in the Denver experience with insights tailored for your visit to Auraria Campus.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Metro State College Auraria Campus (Denver, CO)
The Auraria Campus is centrally located in downtown Denver, just west of Speer Boulevard and bordered by the South Platte River. This unique urban campus brings together MSU Denver, the University of Colorado Denver, and the Community College of Denver, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere. Major access routes include Speer Boulevard, Auraria Parkway, and Kalamath Street, providing direct connections to I-25 and major city arteries. Denver International Airport (DEN) is approximately 25 miles northeast of the campus, typically a 30-45 minute drive without significant traffic. Public transportation is robust, with RTD bus routes and the light rail W Line and C Line serving the campus via the 10th & Osage Station, which is a short walk away. For those driving, campus parking lots and structures are available, though they can fill quickly during peak hours and major events. It is advisable to plan your arrival at least 30-45 minutes before any scheduled event to account for potential traffic congestion, especially during weekday commute times or when large gatherings are expected. Rideshare services also offer convenient drop-off and pick-up points around the campus periphery.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Metro State College Auraria Campus
A variety of hotel options are clustered in the downtown Denver area, many within a 10-20 minute drive or accessible via public transit from Auraria Campus. The immediate vicinity of the campus is primarily educational and civic, with most lodging situated a bit further east in the central business district or south in the Baker neighborhood. For those prioritizing walkability to campus amenities, hotels in the downtown core offer the most direct access, though most will still require a 15-25 minute walk or a short transit ride. Groups and teams often find accommodations that offer shuttle services or are conveniently located near light rail stations for easy campus access. Major sporting events or academic conferences held at Auraria Campus can lead to increased demand, so booking accommodations well in advance, especially for weekends or during peak academic semesters, is highly recommended. Utilize hotel map filters to identify properties near the 10th & Osage light rail station or along major bus routes that serve the campus.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Denver International Airport (DEN) is about 35 minutes away via rideshare or car.
- Arrive 45 minutes early to navigate campus parking and find your destination easily.
- The nearby Confluence Park offers outdoor recreation and dining options.
- Explore the shops and cafes in the Santa Fe Arts District for a rainy day.
- The 10th & Osage RTD Station is a key transit and regrouping point.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Aim to arrive on campus at least 45-60 minutes before your event's scheduled start time. This buffer allows ample time to navigate the urban campus environment, locate your specific building or athletic facility, and find available parking. Familiarize yourself with campus maps in advance to identify key locations and pedestrian pathways. If arriving by public transit, the 10th & Osage Station is a central point, but allow time for walking to your final destination. Consider purchasing parking passes or planning your route in advance to avoid last-minute stress and potential delays.
During the Event
Once inside your venue, locate restrooms and any designated gathering areas early on. If attending a sporting event, orient yourself to the concession stands and seating sections. For academic or performance events, ensure you know the room number and any specific entry protocols. Take advantage of any intermissions or breaks to move around, get refreshments, or meet up with your group. Staying aware of your surroundings and campus signage will help you navigate efficiently between different areas. </br> If this is a sporting event, remember that concourse areas can become congested during peak times like halftime or the end of periods. Always be mindful of others and allow for smooth pedestrian flow. </br> If you are a participant or coach, ensure your team has a designated meeting spot away from main thoroughfares for effective regrouping between matches or sessions.
Post-Event & Departure
Plan your departure route as you leave your event to avoid immediate bottlenecks. If driving, be aware that campus parking exits can experience significant queues immediately following a major event. Consider waiting 15-20 minutes in a designated nearby area, such as a campus plaza or a nearby park, before heading to your vehicle to allow traffic to dissipate. For those using public transit, make your way to the nearest light rail station or bus stop with sufficient time to catch your intended service. Rideshare pick-up zones can also become crowded; identify your designated pick-up location beforehand and be patient as drivers navigate the area. </br> If attending a series of events, using the 10th & Osage Station can be a strategic advantage, connecting you to multiple transit lines for an easier exit from the downtown core.
Things to Do Near Metro State College Auraria Campus
Walkable
Auraria Campus
The Auraria Campus itself is a destination, blending architectural diversity with green spaces and public art. Visitors can explore the pedestrian-friendly grounds, discover the historic Tivoli Student Union, and appreciate the unique blend of three institutions coexisting. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, especially on a clear day, offering insights into Denver's educational landscape. Keep an eye out for campus events, art installations, and historical markers scattered throughout the grounds that tell the story of this unique urban academic center. Don't miss the opportunity to walk along the South Platte River trail accessible from the campus's western edge.
Auraria Pkwy · On siteConfluence Park
Located where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, Confluence Park is a historic and recreational hub just a short walk from Auraria Campus. This urban oasis offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic views of the city skyline. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, exercise, or enjoy a casual outdoor experience. The park also serves as a trailhead for the extensive Denver bike path system, making it a great starting or ending point for a bike ride through the city. You can often find people enjoying the rapids on the South Platte River or simply soaking in the urban nature setting.
17th St · 0.7 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum, located in the Civic Center Cultural Complex, is a world-class institution showcasing a diverse collection spanning various eras and cultures. Its striking architecture, particularly the Hamilton Building with its geometric design, is a landmark in itself. Inside, visitors can explore extensive galleries featuring Native American art, modern and contemporary works, European paintings, and much more. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, making each visit a potentially new experience. It’s an essential stop for art enthusiasts and those seeking cultural enrichment in Denver.
Civic Center Park · 1.1 miUnion Station
Denver's historic Union Station has been beautifully restored and transformed into a vibrant transportation hub and entertainment district. Beyond its role as a train station, it houses a collection of unique shops, restaurants, and bars, creating a lively atmosphere. The Great Hall, with its stunning architecture and iconic clock, is a popular meeting spot. Whether you're arriving by train, enjoying a meal, or simply taking in the historic ambiance, Union Station offers a glimpse into Denver's past and present. Its central location makes it easily accessible from the Auraria Campus area.
17th St & Wynkoop St · 1.2 miBeyond the Event: Continue your exploration into the nearby Santa Fe Arts District for unique galleries, studios, and eclectic shops, or head east towards the 16th Street Mall for more dining and shopping options. The downtown area also boasts numerous parks and cultural institutions, providing ample opportunities for further discovery. The ease of access via transit or a short drive means a wealth of Denver attractions are within reach.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Metro State College Auraria Campus
Inside & Adjacent
Tivoli Student Union Food Court
The Tivoli Student Union, located centrally on the Auraria Campus, offers a convenient array of dining options for students, faculty, and visitors. Within the food court, you'll find a variety of casual eateries catering to diverse tastes, from pizza and burgers to international flavors and grab-and-go snacks. It's an ideal spot for a quick lunch between classes, a casual team meal, or a convenient bite before or after an event on campus. The atmosphere is lively and student-focused, providing a true taste of campus life.
Auraria Pkwy · On siteCampus Coffee Shops
Several coffee shops are scattered throughout the Auraria Campus, serving as convenient spots for a morning pick-me-up or a mid-day break. These cafes offer a range of coffee beverages, teas, pastries, and light snacks. They provide a relaxed setting for informal meetings or a moment of quiet study. Look for them within the academic buildings or the Tivoli Student Union for quick and easy access during your campus visit. Many are open early and close in the late afternoon, aligning with campus operating hours.
Auraria Campus · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Tap Fourteen
Tap Fourteen offers a lively atmosphere and an extensive selection of Colorado craft beers, making it a popular spot for groups to gather. Located a short distance from campus in the LoDo district, this pub features a rooftop patio with great city views. Their menu includes elevated pub fare, burgers, and shareable plates perfect for a team or group outing. It’s a prime location for enjoying local brews and a casual dining experience after a day on campus or attending an event.
14th St · 1.1 miAvanti Food & Beverage
Avanti Food & Beverage is a modern food hall that brings together several unique culinary concepts under one roof, set in a stylish industrial space. Visitors can choose from a variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean, Mexican, and American comfort food, all served from distinct kitchens. The shared seating area and rooftop deck with panoramic city views make it an excellent spot for groups with diverse preferences. It’s a dynamic and social dining destination perfect for post-event relaxation or team meals.
14th St · 1.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Rioja
Located in the historic Larimer Square, Rioja is celebrated for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and intimate, upscale dining experience. Chef Jennifer Jasinski’s award-winning restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes, earning it a reputation as one of Denver’s finest dining establishments. It’s an ideal choice for a celebratory dinner or a more refined group meal. The charming ambiance of Larimer Square adds to the overall special occasion feel of dining here.
Larimer Square · 1.5 miAviano Coffee
While a bit further afield in the upscale Cherry Creek North neighborhood, Aviano Coffee is a beloved local spot known for its expertly crafted espresso drinks and artisanal coffee. It's a great destination for a morning coffee run or a relaxed afternoon break. Beyond coffee, they offer a selection of delicious pastries and light bites. The sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere makes it a pleasant escape for those looking for quality brews and a bit of local flavor outside the immediate campus vicinity.
Cherry Creek North · 3.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Campus traffic is heaviest during weekday commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) and around major event times.
- Weekends can be busy with sporting events; check campus schedules to anticipate crowds.
- Parking on campus requires vigilance; lots and garages fill quickly, especially during peak academic periods.
- The 10th & Osage RTD Station is a central transit hub connecting to many parts of the city.
- Exploring the adjacent Santa Fe Arts District on First Fridays offers a vibrant local experience.
Weather & Seasons at Metro State College Auraria Campus
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, with averages in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. Days are short, and sunshine is common but can be interspersed with snow showers. Visitors should pack warm layers, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Walking between buildings on campus might require caution on icy patches, and transit or driving is often preferred during colder snaps. Ensure your attire allows for comfortable movement even when bundled up.
- Spring & early summer: This period features pleasant and warming temperatures, ranging from the 40s to 70s Fahrenheit. Days become longer and more inviting for outdoor exploration. Light jackets or sweaters are usually sufficient for cooler mornings and evenings, while t-shirts are comfortable during the day. There's a moderate chance of rain, so carrying a compact umbrella is a good idea for navigating between campus buildings or enjoying nearby parks. Outdoor events and activities become increasingly popular.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Denver are warm to hot, with daytime highs often in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. While the air is generally dry, strong sun requires sunblock, hats, and hydration. Evenings cool down nicely, making them pleasant for outdoor dining or events. Short, intense thunderstorms can occur, so be prepared for sudden downpours. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for comfort around campus and exploring the city.
- Fall season: Autumn offers crisp air and cooler temperatures, transitioning from the 70s Fahrenheit in early fall down to the 30s and 40s by late fall. Fall colors can be visible in parks and along the river trails. Layers are essential, as days can fluctuate significantly in temperature. Mornings and evenings will likely require a jacket or sweater, while afternoons may be pleasant enough for lighter wear. This season is generally ideal for walking and enjoying the city’s outdoor spaces before winter sets in.
- Rain & snow: Denver experiences both rain and snow, though not typically in extreme, prolonged amounts. Rain showers, especially in spring and summer, can be brief but heavy. Snowfall is most common from late fall through early spring. While significant snow can impact travel, campus plows usually keep main pathways and parking areas accessible. Always check weather forecasts before heading to campus, and be prepared for potentially slick surfaces if precipitation occurs. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a wise addition to your packing list during these periods.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: MSU Denver Roadrunners
- Neighborhood: Auraria Campus / Downtown Denver
- Nearest airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Parking: Campus garages and lots; limited street parking
- Walkable district: Yes, particularly the campus and adjacent parks
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Downtown supermarkets and convenience stores
- Pharmacy: CVS, Walgreens within a 1-mile radius
- Urgent care: Immediate Care West or Concentra Urgent Care nearby
- Downtime: Confluence Park, 16th Street Mall, nearby cafes
- Pro tip: Utilize the 10th & Osage RTD Station for easy transit access.

