Light Rail to Downtown


After pulling an overnight shift on Thursday — and emerging Friday morning like a confused bat who accidentally stayed out past sunrise — I sleep most of the day away. Around 1:00pm, I finally rise from my cocoon, scan Westword’s Best of 2015 picks, and suddenly decide: today, we adventure.


I hop on the Light Rail and glide into Union Station, but instead of going inside like a normal civilized human, I head straight across the South Platte River via a pedestrian bridge — because why enter a building when you can wander like a modern-day vagabond with snacks and purpose?


Denver’s architecture never disappoints me. Intricately designed bridges, buildings marrying old-world charm with sleek modern lines — the city feels like the perfect mixture of the modern and the past.

Rushing water flows through a canal creating white rapids and turbulent currents.
Silhouette of steel bridge arch against dramatic sunset sky with clouds.
Historic brick buildings and metal bridge structure at dusk with purple sky.

Walk to Spuntino's


My journey to Spuntino begins — 1.8 miles one way (so yes, a heroic 3.6-mile round trip, thank you very much). The weather is perfection — the kind that gently whispers, go forth, traveler, and also maybe, don’t forget sunscreen next time.


The city is lively, chaotic, and downright entertaining. Let’s just say: Friday afternoon brings out a special kind of Denver energy — including more than a few very hydrated folks wobbling joyfully through the streets. I chuckle my way past them, amused but unbothered.


On the way, I pass Little Man Ice Cream, an iconic spot shaped like a giant retro milk can. Whoever said magic isn’t real clearly never saw dairy architecture used this boldly.

Dark nighttime photograph of brick wall with illuminated Private sign.
Vintage poster illuminated on brick wall at night with green tint.
Red brick building wall covered with weathered posters and photographs.
Giant ice cream cone shaped building with striped awning at twilight.

Spuntino's


At last, I arrive at Spuntino, crowned Westword’s “Best Italian Restaurant” — and rightfully so. Every bite is a dream, every sip divine. I also confess: I have a slight obsession with photographing cocktails. If a drink arrives looking whimsical and glamorous, I will document it like it's an endangered species.

Two orange cocktails in stemmed glasses on dark wooden bar counter.
A plated dessert with chocolate sauce artfully drizzled on a white plate with a spoon.
A glass of amber-colored whiskey with ice on a dark wooden table.

Back Home


After my delicious feast, I stroll back to Union Station, hop on the Light Rail, and head home — full belly, happy heart, and camera roll thriving.


It was a simple little adventure, but sometimes the best days are the ones where you wander, sip something fabulous, and laugh at the beautifully chaotic world around you.