Jill Emmer's Photo Diary: Family Adventure to Denver with Sun Country Airlines
The first weekend of November, my son Arlo and I embarked on a four-day adventure to Denver as guests of Sun Country Airlines through its Sun Country Explorers program. We were invited to highlight the Mile High City, and we were delighted to share our experiences. Join us on this memorable trip!
Last spring, Sun Country Airlines launched its Hometown Lakes Project, naming and decorating over 20 aircraft to honor Minnesota—its home state with more than 10,000 lakes. As Minnesota's Hometown Airline™, each plane is named after a famous Minnesotan lake and features custom interior artwork by Mark Herman. Arlo and I were thrilled to fly on the Lake Harriet plane, the lake nearest our home, en route to Denver.
Upon arriving in Denver, we were welcomed by warm, beautiful weather. We enjoyed a long city walk amid lingering fall colors. Arlo's favorite activity, no matter the destination, is playing football in a park! We capped our stroll with delicious pizza at Marco's Coal-Fired Pizzeria (highly recommended) before returning to the charming Magnolia Hotel in downtown Denver.
The hotel staff treated Arlo like a VIP, making him feel extra special. The next morning, we grabbed coffee and hot chocolate to go. Within an hour, downtown skyscrapers faded behind us as we ascended into the mountains, inhaling that invigorating alpine air.
Fortuitously, Loveland Ski Area had just opened for the season with two lifts and family-friendly terrain. Ideal for young children, Loveland offers a more intimate experience than giants like Aspen, Breckenridge, or Vail. It's perfect for green and blue runs, budget-friendly lift tickets, and its proximity to Denver makes it accessible. The weather was ideal, and Arlo beamed with pride after skiing "real mountains!"
That evening, we unwound at the hotel. My trip highlight was dinner at Magnolia's Harry's Bar: pumpkin ravioli in brown butter sauce, topped with pecans and scallops—a perfect finale to an unforgettable day.
Arlo and I spent the following days exploring spontaneously.
We admired Denver's vibrant street art.
We took a day trip to Boulder.
Chautauqua Park offered breathtaking views for football and hiking.
In Estes Park, we spotted elk and savored pizza at Poppy's Pizza and Grill, which truly delivers on its reputation.
Venturing higher, we encountered a snowstorm in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Our Denver trip was a resounding success! Beyond skiing, we embraced unplanned spontaneity, leading to richer adventures. In Boulder, Arlo opted for mountains over shopping after a hike, sparking our Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park detour. The short drive provided rest, recharging us for more exploration. Flexibility amplified our sense of adventure.
Denver's magic lies in its proximity to diverse pursuits: art museums, shopping, dining, skiing, college vibes, and national parks—all within 1-2 hours.
This bonding trip with my youngest son creates lasting memories, with photos now adorning our walls. Grateful for Sun Country as Minnesota's Hometown Airline™!
It made for pure magic! A heartfelt thanks to Sun Country for sponsoring this journey.
Jill Emmer, Sun Country Explorer:
@shineonyoucrazydiamond
I received airfare, hotel accommodations, and a stipend from Sun Country Airlines as compensation for this post. Sun Country Airlines did not influence my opinions. All views are my own; no other compensation was provided.
