Denver's Dairy Block

If you've been here for a while you'll know by now that I'm a city girl at heart. While I enjoy exploring the great outdoors, there's nothing I love more than exploring a new city. Or even my own city!

One of my favorite things to do is to get out and explore a "new to me" neighborhood. Last weekend the kids and I did just this with a few hours spent exploring Denver's Dairy Block.

Now this area isn't so much as a neighborhood, but rather, one block. You maybe guessed that from the name! Located just a few blocks from Denver's Union Station, Dairy Block can be found on Wazee Street. Dairy Block is home to Denver Milk Market, a culinary destination featuring a large range of cuisines, and my favorite part, The Alleyway. The Alleyway is, you guessed it, an alleyway! This small alleyway that runs between buildings has been converted into an outdoor dining and pedestrian area with plenty of seating, street art and heating for chilly days. While it was quite cold when we visited, the combination of the heat lamps and the warm lighting strung across the alleyway gave the area a warm and cozy feel. Part of The Alleyway is undercover and features a mirrored ceiling that reflects the color and fun below. Mathilde quite enjoyed looking up at her upside down self above. 

Street art lines The Alleyway culminating in a large milk splash sculpture at the far end. This sculpture adds a touch of whimsy and fun to the area and makes for a great spot for silly photos. Look up above the milk splash and you'll spot it's source right at the top of the building. A large vintage milk can pours the milk down the side of the building making the large splash.

Dotted along the length of The Alleyway you'll find interactive musical churns. Turn the handle on these vintage-meets-digital artworks and they'll light up and play music. Such a delight for kids and adults alike. 

If you're feeling peckish, Denver Milk Market is your best bet for something tasty to eat. Step inside the entrance on The Alleyway or on Wazee Street and you'll find yourself in an upscale food court reminiscent of a marketplace. There's something here for everyone with pizza, gelato, crepes, baked goods, southern style comfort food, salads, sandwiches, burgers, brunch, and even a cocktail bar. We went with crepes from Cornicello (the gelato store) and they were divine. 

The art continues throughout Denver Milk Market with murals, hanging artworks, vintage items including toys and pinball machine, and much more. Each food destination is a work of art in itself. 

Dairy Block is such a great little spot for an afternoon out with family or friends. We'll definitely be back, hopefully on a Sunday for Drag Bingo Brunch! 

If you're concerned about dining out right now, rest assured that Denver Milk Market has plenty of protocols in place to keep staff and patrons safe. Obviously masks are required apart from when eating/drinking, and I was pleased to see temperatures being taken at the door. To reduce contact, patrons can order food through an app and have it brought directly to their table. 

I look forward to getting out and about exploring the Denver and its quirky neighborhoods and districts more!