It’s the polar opposite of upper downtown, close to the state Capitol, where outdated, drab towers sit mostly empty or totally vacant, and millions in tax dollars are being invested to prop up properties, like the Pavilions mall. Even the most positive booster of Denver admits it will be a long time until the area recovers.

With 2025 in the rearview mirror, it’s time to get to know a new crop of restaurants opening in the first months of 2026. Below are nine of the most hotly anticipated locales launching early this year.

DENVER — The Colorado Symphony's popular annual tradition "A Night in Vienna" returns on New Year's Eve. The rousing selection of polkas, waltzes and marches begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at Boettcher Concert Hall, ensuring attendees won't miss the downtown Denver fireworks. Reserve your seats at ColoradoSymphony.org.

DENVER (KDVR) — Despite snowy cold weather, hundreds of people gathered to watch as livestock and rodeo stars took over the streets of downtown Denver Thursday for the annual National Western Stock Show Parade. A snowy and windy morning impacted many ...

Crews are getting ready for the annual New Year's Eve fireworks show in downtown Denver. CBS News Colorado was invited to check out the launch site ahead of the show. The fireworks will be launched from atop the Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel. This is the ...

The streets of downtown Denver were packed Wednesday night as thousands gathered to ring in the new year with fireworks, family-friendly events, and a renewed sense of energy along 16th Street.

Beneath its calm exterior, Denver International Airport buzzes with legends, wild artwork, and underground tales few passengers notice.

Between the recently completed construction on Denver's 16th Street and the unseasonably warm weather, there could be more people than ever ringing in the New Year in downtown.

Viewers may also get a good look at the fireworks from one of Denver’s many rooftop bars or hotels around downtown. Additionally, the Mile High Drone Show is running nightly at 7 p.m. through New Year’s Eve. The best places to view are near downtown like the Auraria Campus, Sculpture Park and rooftop bars.

In Denver, comfort settles in quietly at these senior-approved diners. Curious which spots offer steady service and meals that exhale with you?