Colorado Home Loans

State Nickname: The Centennial State
State Capital: Denver
State Flower: Rocky Mountain Columbine
State Bird: Lark Bunting

The captivating view of the majestic Pike's Peak mountain inspired America the Beautiful 200 years ago and continues to enthrall residents and visitors alike today. As part of the Rocky Mountain West, Colorado is primarily known for its ski and outdoor
sport industry, in resort areas such as Aspen, but is also home to many substantial farming and ranching communities, such as Westminster, large urban areas, such as Denver, and small towns that have a history rooted in mining.

The state cracked America's Top Ten in job growth, just a year after ranking 45th in 2003 and employment continues to broaden across most sectors, particularly in energy-related industries and construction, consistent with an increase in development of affordable housing, including single-family houses, condominiums and apartments. The state boasts 28 public and 48 private institutions of higher education and in 2003, had an 88.7% rate of those over age 25 with a high school diploma, one of the best levels of attainment in the country. National forests occupy 20% of the state's land area and provide endless outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hunting, ballooning and hiking in beautiful cities such as Boulder, Colorado has over 300 days of sunshine and a wide variety of opportunities that allow residents to enjoy its natural beauty. Colorado, located in the western central U.S., contains some of the most rugged mountain landscapes in the country. Known as Ski Country USA, Colorado's mountainous region is home to more than 20 different ski and snowboard areas. Breckenridge, west of Denver, is one of the most popular ski resorts in the country. Other Colorado ski destinations include Aspen, Vail, Steamboat and Beaver Creek.

The Rocky Mountains cut through the central portion of the state and are comprised of: the Front Range, the Park Range, the Sawatch Range, the San Juan Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Major rivers cutting through the Rockies include the Colorado, Rio Grande, Arkansas, North Platte, South Platte and Republic Rivers. The Continental Divide, located just west of the Front Range, runs northeast to southwest.

The lending industry can be a confusing place for potential buyers. There are adjustable rate mortgages (ARM's), interest-only mortgages, traditional mortgages, all-in-one mortgages and more. There are loans with no points that have higher interest rates and loans that you can allocate funds towards points that carry lower interest rates. How does a potential buyer choose which mortgage is right for them, what makes the different mortgages, well, different? Why do certain lenders advise buyers on a specific type of mortgage?

To provide a little more clarity in a murky world, you need to ask yourself and your lender some questions. Knowing as much as you can about the different types of mortgages will help you be an informed buyer and make wise decisions when it comes time to choose a mortgage.

The first question you should answer is: how long you expect to be in this particular home? If you don't plan on being there for very long, then a 30 year mortgage with a fixed interest rate may not be right for you. An interest-only loan may be a better option if you plan on only living there a short time and then selling.

Check out the lender's reputation as thoroughly as possible. Some lenders are underhanded, stacking hidden fees and charges against the buyer while never revealing everything that's going on. The Internet is a great way to find feedback on particular lenders; checking forums and message boards will reveal a lot of information about lender practices and performance. Trust is imperative in choosing a lender, so do your homework and make sure you're comfortable with the lender.

Check out the interest rates the lender offers and how long they will guarantee them. Is the rate variable or fixed? Get any promises in writing.

Determine how much you can provide as a down payment. The larger the down payment, the lower the monthly payments will be. If you don't have a lot of cash upfront you can always choose a higher interest rate or an adjustable interest rate; these will lower the amount required for down payment.

What risks are you willing to accept? If you have the resources or the willingness to take the risks, an adjustable rate mortgage can give you a lower rate, while a fixed rate will provide you the knowledge of exactly what your monthly expenses will be, but at a higher interest rate.

Another option for determining which mortgage is right for you is the use of an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA). These folks provide incredible services, taking your needs and desires into consideration and showing you which mortgages are currently the best on the market and what types of mortgages work with your current needs and monetary situation. IFA's are usually independent entities and have no reason to advise you to choose one type of mortgage over another or one lender instead of their competition. Using an IFA can greatly reduce the amount of stress involved with deciding what mortgage is right for you.

Pre-qualification

Pre-qualification starts the loan process. Once a lender has gathered information about a borrower's income and debts, a determination can be made as to how much the borrower can pay for a house. Since different loan programs can cause different valuations a borrower should become get pre-qualified for each loan type the borrower may qualify for.

In attempting to approve homebuyers for the type and amount of mortgage they want, mortgage companies look at two key factors: First, the borrower's ability to repay the loan and, second, the borrower's willingness to repay the loan. Ability to repay the mortgage is verified by your current employment and total income. Generally speaking, mortgage companies prefer for you to have been employed at the same place for at least two years, or at least to have been in the same line of work for a few years.

The borrower's willingness to repay is determined by examining how the property will be used. For instance, will you be living there or just renting it out? Willingness to repay is also closely related to how you have fulfilled previous financial commitments; this explains the emphasis on the credit report and/or your rental payment history.

It is important to remember that there are no rules carved in stone. Each applicant is handled on a case-by-case basis. So, even if you come up a little short in one area, your stronger point could make up for the weaker one. Mortgage companies couldn't stay in business if they didn't generate loan business, so it's in everyone's best interest to see that you qualify.

Ratios

When analyzing a borrower's loan application (Form 1003), lenders use two different debt ratios to determine if the borrower can afford his obligations. Known as the "Top" and "Bottom" ratios, the top ratio consists of monthly housing expenses know as PITI (principal, interest, taxes, home owner's insurance and home owner's dues, if any) divided by gross monthly income. The bottom ratio consists of PITI plus all monthly consumer debt payments (cars, credit cards, student loans) divided by gross monthly income.

Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac guidelines say that the top and bottom ratios shouldn't exceed 28 over 36 (28/36) but they will go to 32/38 if the borrower is employed. Since ALL borrowers are employed one way or another, 28/36 has become the industry standard. If your ratios exceed the standard don't worry as lots of programs will let back end ratios go as high as 50% with compensating factors such as a low Loan to Value (LTV) or high borrower liquidity.

It's best to have your loan officer pull your credit report early in the process so you know exactly what consumer debt shows on it. This will also give you a chance to improve your ratios by maybe paying off low consumer debt balances or rescoring your credit to reflect your real financial picture.

Mortgage Programs and Rates

To properly analyze a Mortgage Program, the borrower needs to think about how long they plan to keep the loan. If you plan to sell the house in a few years, an adjustable or balloon loan may make more sense. If you plan to keep the house for a longer period, a fixed loan may be more suitable.

A borrower should also understand the relationship between rates and points. Points are considered to be prepaid interest and may be tax deducible (consult your tax advisor). Each point is equal to one percent of the loan. The more points you are willing to pay, the lower the interest rate will be.

Shopping for a loan is very time consuming and frustrating. With so many programs to choose from, each with different rates, points and fees, an experienced mortgage professional can evaluate a borrower's situation and recommend the most suitable Mortgage Program, allowing the borrower to make an informed decision.
Since professional mortgage brokers only broker Mortgage Programs that are priced below retail, the borrower is getting an experienced mortgage professional at no extra cost. In fact, because of the mortgage professional's extensive knowledge of the mortgage industry, he or she can often save the borrower extra money.

The Application

The application is the true start of the loan process. It usually occurs between days one and five of the start of the loan process. With the aid of a mortgage professional, The borrower completes the application and provides all Required Documentation.

The various fees and closing cost estimates will have been discussed while examining the many Mortgage Programs. These costs will be verified by the Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and a Truth-In-Lending Statement (TIL) which the borrower will receive within three days of the submission of the application to the lender.

Processing

Once the application has been submitted, the processing of the mortgage begins. The Processor opens Escrow and orders the credit report, Appraisal, and Title Report. The information on the application, such as bank deposits and payment histories, is then verified. Any credit derogatories, such as late payments, collections, and/or judgments require a written explanation. The processor examines the Appraisal and Title Report checking for property issues that may require further investigation. The entire mortgage package is then put together for submission to the lender.

Required Documents

If you are purchasing or refinancing your home, and you are salaried, you will need to provide the past two-years W-2s and one month of pay-stubs: OR, if you are self-employed, you will need to provide the past two-years tax returns and a YTD (year-to-date) profit and loss statement. If you own rental property, you will need to provide Rental Agreements and the past two-years' tax returns. If you wish to speed up the approval process, you should also provide the past three-months bank, stock and mutual fund account statements. Provide the most recent copies of any stock brokerage or IRA/401k accounts that you might have.

If you are applying for a Home Equity Loan you will need to provide a copy of your first mortgage note and deed of trust in addition to the above documents. These items will normally be found in your mortgage closing documents.

Credit Reports

Most people applying for a home mortgage need not worry about the effects of their credit history during the mortgage process. However you can be better prepared if you get a copy of your credit report before you apply for your mortgage. That way, you can take steps to correct any negatives before making your application.

A Credit Profile refers to a consumer credit file, which is made up of various consumer credit reporting agencies. It is a picture of how you paid back the companies from whom you have borrowed money, or how you have met other financial obligations. NOT included on your credit profile is race, religion, health, driving record, criminal record, political preference, or income.

If you have had credit problems, be prepared to discuss them honestly with a mortgage professional who will assist you in writing your "Letter of Explanation" or helping you remove erroneous information. Knowledgeable mortgage professionals know there can be legitimate reasons for credit problems, such as unemployment, illness, or other financial difficulties. If you had problems that have been corrected (reestablishment of credit), and your payments have been on time for a year or more, your credit may be considered satisfactory.

The mortgage industry tends to create its own language, and credit rating is no different. . Credit scoring is a statistical method of assessing the credit risk of a mortgage application. The score looks at the following items: past delinquencies, derogatory payment behavior, current debt levels, length of credit history, types of credit and number of inquiries. By now, most people have heard of credit scoring. The most common score (now the most common terminology for credit scoring) is called the FICO score. This score was developed by Fair, Isaac & Company, Inc. for the three main credit Bureaus; Equifax (Beacon), Experian (formerly TRW), and Empirica (TransUnion).

FICO scores are simply repository scores, meaning they ONLY consider the information contained in a person's credit file. They DO NOT consider a person's income, savings, or down payment amount. Credit scores are based on five factors: 35% of the score is based on payment history, 30% on the amount owed, 15% on how long you've had credit, 10% percent on new credit being sought, and 10% on the types of credit you have. The scores are useful in directing applications to specific loan programs and to set levels of underwriting such as Streamline, Traditional, or Second Review, but are not the final word regarding the type of program you will qualify for, or your interest rate.

Log on to www.myfico.com and/or www.equifax.com

Many people in the mortgage business are skeptical about the accuracy of FICO scores. Scoring has only been an integral part of the mortgage process for the past few years (since 1999); however, the FICO scores have been used since the late 1950's by retail merchants, credit card companies, insurance companies and banks for consumer lending. The data from large scoring projects, such as large mortgage portfolios, demonstrate their predictive quality and that the scores do work.

Trust is the most important aspect of working with your loan officer. If you don't trust your loan officer, don't deal with them; find one that you do trust. Buying a home is one of the biggest investments, if not the biggest, you'll make in your life. You don't want to trust your future financial obligations to someone who's simply rubber stamping you and your application. There are several questions you need to ask yourself when working with your loan officer; let's look at it like a fast food restaurant:

Does your loan officer take the time to explain the benefits and concerns about each mortgage option? If they simply show you a menu of your options and then take your order, you can be sure they are not working with your best interests in mind. Loan officers are paid on commission, so if you think they're steering you in a direction that's not what you want or need, then you may not have an honest loan officer. If they have a particular option that they feel you should explore, they should be able to explain the reasons that this option is to your benefit and why another option wouldn't be better.

How knowledgeable is your loan officer? Do they have an in-depth knowledge of the industry or do they seem like the guy asking if you'd like fries with your value meal? A comprehensive understanding of the packages offered, the impact of different financial aspects and a desire to help buyers get the best loan for their needs are all key characteristics to look for in your loan officer. The loan industry should not be treated in a "may I take your order" fashion, it's far too important and has far too much impact on the lives of those involved to be taken as anything but a serious matter.

Your loan officer should treat you like family. I don't mean like awkward or hateful brothers or sisters acting with spite; I'm mean they should treat you like a member of their family, with respect, humor and an eye for your future well being. Your loan officer will set up a mortgage that you will have to live with as long as you own your home, so choose one that you can work with easily, one who has a reputation for fantastic service with an open and honest demeanor.

While it is very important that your loan officer work with you, rather than against you and it's important that you are recognized as an important aspect rather than another person standing in line to place your order, it is also very important that you work with the loan officer. They cannot provide excellent service if you do not help them. There are a lot of things a loan officer will require from you and it's extremely important that they have them-you won't get a good loan without them! W-2 forms for that past 2 years, pay stubs for the past 3 months, long term debt information, tax returns for at least the previous 2 years, proof of all other income and the address of the property you are interested in purchasing.

Without this information or with faulty or incomplete information, your loan officer will not be able to do their job properly. Most loan officers are more than happy to provide excellent service to you, but you must be prepared to work with them. Before you call to make an appointment with any loan officer, make sure you have the information listed above in hand.

For various reasons, many homeowners find they need to take out a home equity line of credit or refinance their current mortgage. This usually means more fees, more documents to sign and store and general hassle for the homeowner. If you're looking for a new home loan, an all-in-one mortgage just might be the way to go. These loans incorporate a home equity line of credit and very flexible options during the life of the loan to help homeowners avoid the hassle of refinancing. What does an all-in-one mortgage include and what benefits do homeowners get from applying for one? Read on.

An all-in-one mortgage is a recent innovation by the lending industry. Pioneered by Washington Mutual, the nation's largest mortgage lender, an all-in-one mortgage is an innovative approach to making life simpler for homeowners and lenders alike. After its inception and enthusiastic reception, many lenders are creating their own version of this beneficial mortgage.

An all-in-one mortgage is exactly what it sounds like. It allows buyers to incorporate a home equity line of credit into a first home loan, lets buyers adjust the interest rate of their mortgage during the life of the loan without the hassle of refinancing through a third party and choose between interest-only and fully amortized payment options.

Once buyers have paid 10% of the loan, they are able to tap into their home equity. Whether they choose to receive a check, cash advance or a credit card, the only thing they need to do is contact their loan company and the mortgage company will set up the account to make the funds available to the homeowner.

With this type of mortgage, homeowners no longer need to go through the complicated and time consuming hassle of refinancing. During the life of the loan, buyers are able to change from interest-only to fully amortized payments and back at no cost. Buyers can also switch between fixed interest rates and variable at no cost, depending on their payment needs at the time. With Washington Mutual, the first switch is free, after that they are at a flat fee of $250.00 and can be done twice per year. This avoids the annoying and sometimes painful process of changing lenders and keeps your account with people familiar with you.

All-in-one mortgages can be set up to accommodate almost any buyer's particular needs and are widely available, either through Washington Mutual or one of their competitors. While not every buyer will benefit from an all-in-one mortgage, and not every buyer is eligible for these loans, the vast majority of home buyers should see this pioneering loan type as a boon, giving buyers more control and flexibility over their loan, while making it easier to avoid a lot of the hassle commonly associated with home loans.

Buyers who are not eligible for an all-in-one mortgage are those in the sub-prime market, buyers with credit problems and those with low incomes, though many lenders can offer help with these qualifiers. Bad credit and no credit can be issues that are hard to overcome as most lenders are unable to adjust requirements to meet these problems.

Online mortgages? Really? Sure. A recent benchmark study by Mortgagebot.com states that of the mortgage agencies with an online presence, fully half of their loans have come through the online channel. This speaks volumes about how Americans are searching for information on a> and how much information they're willing to get from Internet sources. It also says a lot about the future of the mortgage industry as a whole. With the incredible movement to Web-based commerce still going strong, it should come as no surprise that people are readily engaging in every form of e-commerce, including mortgage applications.

Even less surprising is the market segment doing the online mortgage hunting. Young, affluent and creditworthy, is the description on a popular mortgage news site. These folks are creating the future, now. The market will follow where the money goes, and the money is going to the Internet. While the e-commerce boom has long since died down, the real e-commerce surge is just beginning. The fad that everyone called the 'boom' of e-commerce was nothing more than that, a fad. The real interest and movement of business to the Web began slowly and has continued while the .Com folks have mostly faded away.

It's only natural for the mortgage industry to make the move to the Web. After all, they're following the money, like everyone else. The real blossoming of the Internet as an outlet for all types of industry and business has yet to come, but we're seeing the first budding right now. The Web offers engaging visual interaction with enough information to sate anyone's hunger for knowledge. Websites can be incredibly interactive, even beautiful, and mortgage industry websites are no different. With the right tools, websites can be built that truly promote the beauty and immediacy of the "American Dream".

Web-based lending is making headway, a new mortgage program for a new generation of home buyers. As with most new business formats, web-based lending may take a little while to catch on with the majority of Americans and the need for brick and mortar lending institutions will never go away. Web-based lending, new mortgage program or not, is here to stay. An example of its growing popularity is the simple fact that Mortgagebot.com's study was done in the first place. If there weren't vast potential in the technology, it would have been dismissed completely and many mortgage lenders have realized the error of doing this to their chagrin.

The 21st century's answer to the mortgage industry is web-based lending and it offers lending powerhouses the opportunity for secured future growth. Even with our society's increasing technology, most consumers still shop by brand name. Lenders with established names and reputations stand in good stead of reaping the rewards of web-based lending. New mortgage programs like online lending also increase company productivity with all or most of the customer's information originating from Internet portals. Web-based lending also promises greater competitive opportunities for small companies to grow brand recognition across the nation and even the world.

Most people don't think 'telecommunications' when they hear the word 'mortgage', but technology's impact on society, and, especially the mortgage industry, has revolutionized the way things are done and has led to lower costs and more benefits for buyers and firms alike. In a research paper, dated 2004, Armando Falcon writes, "Changes in technology have made possible improvements throughout the lending process that allow prospective borrowers to apply for loans, and enable lenders and investors to service, price, sell, and trade mortgages, more quickly and efficiently."

So, the explosion of telecommunications technology has had an immediate benefit for both the industry and for potential buyers. One of the first areas impacted by the new telecommunications technology was data transmission and storage. The cost of this drops every year, allowing mortgage companies to pass the savings on to buyers. Communications speed increases every year, allowing companies faster and faster access to information, faster communications with clients and higher quality document transfer.

The change in telecommunications technology has also affected internal communications for mortgage companies. Information is sent digitally, now, allowing agents access to real time changes in prices, policies, interest rates and programs. This grants agents the ability to provide their customers with quality service, analyzing their customer's needs and finding the program that fits them best within today's dynamic lending structure.

Cost reduction through office automation has had a great impact on the mortgage industry. Where departments were once segregated, using proprietary software, now the same software can be used throughout the entire office and integrate automation through the firm to lower operating costs. Paperless offices are becoming a reality, rather than a potential, though some firms may be slow to adopt this strategy. With the increase in telecommunications technology and ever better computer performance, documents no longer need to take up physical space in a storage room.

Telecommunications technology has also empowered buyers. Through the rapid spread of information, buyers are able to look to the Internet to find loan information, allowing consumers to be informed about their options and helping them to judge judiciously between mortgage companies. Mortgage companies have changed their focus to be highly service oriented, helping to improve customer relations through email, websites and online advertising campaigns.

Virtual networks have allowed mortgage companies to have branches anywhere in the nation without the need for them to be hard wired into the company's headquarters. This allows lower start up costs for branches, lower operating costs and fewer funds spent on paper and ink correspondence with existing branches. Again, these savings are all passed on to buyers; the lower the cost to originate a mortgage, the lower the end price of that mortgage.

The Internet is the fastest growing communications medium ever created and mortgage companies are taking full advantage of its benefits. Online search firms allow companies access to real time information about changes in the market, allowing them to change their rates the instant a market fluctuation occurs. This lets them remain extremely competitive and provide the best in service to their customers.

American Indians, while still falling below many minorities, have several avenues open to them to facilitate acceptance of mortgage applications . The Federal Govt. has established these agencies in response to problems American Indians may face when applying for a traditional mortgage. American Indians can face extraordinary difficulties in obtaining a traditional mortgage due to economic depression in tribal lands and unfair lending practices.

HUD provides Native American's with recourse to mortgages through the establishment of its Office of Native American Programs, or ONAP. ONAP offers American Indians several options in mortgage types, loan duration, interest rates and amount of down payment. HUD's ONAP can be accessed through mail, in person or through Web access; in addition, many websites offer a rundown of the benefits of ONAP's loans providing valuable information to American Indians interested in HUD's mortgage loans. Some of the benefits from using HUD's One Stop Mortgage Center are zero down payment, potential refinancing, mobile home financing and veterans programs.

A partnership between the Native American Bank, LenderLive and Greenpoint Mortgage has resulted in turnkey home mortgages for American Indians for a number of purposes like rehabilitation, refinancing and home buying. This partnership provides American Indians with great resources to help in getting a home loan. The Native American Bank is now in position to be the number one lender to American Indians and to reap the rewards of serving this growing sector of the industry.

The Fannie Mae Organization has also created mortgage programs for Native Americans. These do not have as broad a spectrum as the HUD loans and some of the terms may be somewhat less attractive but they are quality mortgage loans offered at good rates. The Fannie Mae organization is a well respected entity in the nation, providing loans and mortgage information to people nationwide.

Freddie Mac also has a specialty division to assist American Indians with attaining a home mortgage. They provide access to HUD loans and several other programs designed to help Native Americans. This institution provides information to help Native Americans understand the options available to them and the difference between what once was and what the industry has become today.

Home loans to Native Americans consistently fall behind mortgages to whites and several other minorities. The programs listed above were designed with this in mind, to bolster the numbers of American Indian's successful loan applications. Traditionally, American Indians have been poorly received by many institutions due to tribal autonomy, poor economy in tribal lands and other issues of concern.

One of the factors behind Native Americans' difficulty in obtaining mortgage loans is the situation on tribal lands. Many times, the economy of these lands is depressed, leading to low paying jobs and high unemployment rates. The American Indians have begun a promising change, however. Jobless rates, though still worse than national levels, are plunging. Social reforms, land acquisition and internal tribal change are revitalizing tribal lands and thus the economy and feasibility of acquiring home loans. Many groups are beginning to recognize the potential of the Native American peoples and are actively courting their interest.

Once seen as the domain of cowboys and oilmen, today the mile-high metropolis is a cosmopolitan mix of natural beauty and world-class hotels, entertainment and attractions. The Denver Art Museum houses one of the finest collections of American Indian art in the world. The city is also the official home of four national teams: the Broncos, Nuggets, Rockies and Avalanche, meaning every season is sports season. Even with all the big town glitz, Denver has managed to maintain its earthiness. Outdoor recreation is still a major draw. With 205 parks in city limits and 20,000 acres of parks in the nearby mountains, there is ample opportunity for hiking, biking, mountain climbing and more. Families visiting Denver won't know where to begin. The Zoo, the Children's Museum and the Botanic Gardens offer hours of entertainment. Or pop by the United States Mint for a free tour. To prove that Denver really is "The Mile High City," head to the State Capitol. There's a spot on the west steps of the building that is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level.

Denver, CO Hotels and Resorts

Ranks #1, The Denver Marriott Residence Inn City Center is downtown Denver`s newest all suite hotel. Easily walk to the Colorado Convention Center, downtown Denver restaurants, shopping and entertainment including United Artist Theatres, Six Flags, Larimer Square, Great American Beer Fest or one of Colorado`s local breweries such as Wyncoop and Breckenridge Brewery. We also offer a convenient location to Denver Bronco`s, Colorado Avalanche or Rockies baseball games. Qwest, Xcel, Sprint, Denver Federal Government Building, Deloitte and Accenture are only a few of the many local offices within walking distance. Or how about a day of world-class skiing? In an hour or less you can be at any of the Vail Resort properties or other Colorado Ski areas. Whether you are here for a short business trip, family vacation or relocating to Denver and need temporary housing, come stay with us and experience first hand the comforts and "service so memorable" you have come to rely on from The Residence Inn by Marriott.

Restaurants

Taqueria Patzcuaro is an unsung gem of a joint dishing up authentic Mexican fare in a no-frills atmosphere. Located in north Denver -- in a stretch of town bursting with Mexican bakeries, shops and cafes -- Patzcuaro is a local favorite for a casual and inexpensive taste. Seat yourself at this unpretentious spot serving lunch and dinner, and complimentary chips and salsa are served as soon as you sit down. An entire wall is lined with the menacing faces of Mexican revolutionaries. But don't let the staring eyes distress you. You know you're far from the ultra-Americanized Taco Bell when the menu offers dishes such as taco cabeza (beef cheek meat), chuletas a la Mexicana (pork chops swimming in a spicy chile) and pescado a la Mexican (fish filet cooked with olive oil, tomato, onion and jalapeno). Still, timid diners can find safety in familiar burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas and more.

Nightlife

The Bull & Bush Pub & Brewery, Denver's Bull & Bush mirrors Britain's best pubs, down to its cozy furnishings and characteristic memorabilia. Guests revel in the comfortable, dim interior as well as in the microwbrews, which flow freely and are apt complements to authentic plates of fish and chips. Multiple televisions keep visitors abreast of the latest happenings in the sports arena, and well-prepared pub fare keeps them sustained when the competition grows keen.

Attractions

Among the recommended attractions are: Denver Art Museum, known for its wide range of Native American art, this museum also contains the only major Asian art collection in the Rocky Mountains.

The Denver Art Museum is a private, non-profit, educational resource for Colorado. The mission of the museum is to enrich the lives of Colorado and Rocky Mountain residents through the acquisition, preservation, and presentation of art works in both the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, and by supporting these works with exemplary educational and scholarly programs.

Boulder is nestled in the foothills, where the rolling plains meet the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Centrally located within an hour of Denver, Denver International Airport, Eldora Ski Resort and Rocky Mountain National Park. A few hours from many of Colorado's world-famous ski resorts makes Boulder the ideal Colorado destination.

Recently rated the "#1 Sports Town in America" by Outside Magazine, offering countless year-round recreational activities. Take advantage of the 200 miles of public hiking and biking trails, approximately 30,000 acres of open space or the Boulder Creek Path, which runs through the middle of town.

Accommodations

Best Western Boulder Inn - Prominently located directly across from the University, the Boulder Inn gives guests easy access to Boulder's principal attractions, NIST, NOAA, premier shopping, and extraordinary dining. Stylish, well-appointed rooms reflect a gracious ambiance, found throughout the hotel.

During your visit, enjoy our complimentary continental breakfast, free in-room high speed internet access, 24-hour business center, and full service health club privileges. Other guest facilities include a large outdoor pool, sauna, hot tub, on-site restaurant, and conference center.

Best Western Golden Buff - The Best Western Golden Buff Lodge has one of the best locations in Boulder, with over 30 restaurants, shopping, University of Colorado and movie theaters all within walking distance.

Boulder Broker Inn - Enjoy their full service Victorian style hotel featuring meeting and banquet facilities, Bentley's Lounge and the Broker Restaurant. The broker offers all the amenities you need including wireless internet, a complimentary shuttle downtown and a full hot breakfast buffet. We are located within walking distance to CU as well as several restaurants. The Broker Inn is Boulder's hub of the airport Super Shuttle Service.

Attractions

Boulder, Colorado offers a variety of interesting and entertaining attractions year-round, and many are free or almost-free. There is something for everyone in Boulder, and after spending some time here, it's easy to see why Boulder sets itself apart from most cities its size.

Banjo Billy's Bus Tours - Banjo Billy's Bus Tours departs at 2115 13th Street in front of the Hotel Boulderado. Daily tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is an 80 minute, PG-13 funky guided tour of downtown Boulder, "The Hill" and Chautauqua is filled with ghost, history and crime stories. Ride a saddle, sit in a lazy boy, this ain't no typical bus.

BookCliff Vineyards - "Wine that You Will Like" is the tasting room and wine bar of BookCliff Vineyards, a Colorado winery located in Boulder. They offer wine tastings and wine by the glass to enjoy with chocolate, cheese and speciality meats as we share the space with the Belvedere Belgian Chocolate shop. Come and taste their award winning wines and selected wines from other Colorado wineries made from 100% Colorado grown grapes.

Nightlife

7 Eurobar - Seven's head chef and co-owner, Michel Wahaltere, has created his version of hot spots called "euro bars" in cities such as Madrid, Paris, and Rome. At seven, Michel transforms traditional flavors into various nouveau small plates that reflect the popular tastes of Spain, France, and Italy.

Boulder Dinner Theatre - Dinner, dessert, and a show! The Boulder Dinner Theatre has a 20+ year history of bringing the best of Broadway to Colorado, and most shows are extremely family-friendly.

Dark Horse - A Boulder landmark since 1975, this unique food and beverage emporium is adorned with movie props and turn of the century antiques. The Dark Horse truly "boggles the mind". The menu includes award-winning gourmet burgers, jumbo wings, chicken and vegetarian dishes, and children's favorites. Dine indoors or on the patio with spectacular mountain views. The bar features Front Range microbrews and quality spirits, along with 25 TV's, a satellite dish, pool tables, air hockey, football and video games. Karaoke on Thursday night.