Karen - I saw this in the other forum, but since I don't live in Denver I thought someone else should answer. For what it's worth I'll throw in my 1/2 cents' worth.

I don't know much about the outlying areas (except that I take I-70 west into the mountains when I'm there), but what I do know is that the business area of the city is right downtown and is a great place to stay. I have stayed in two hotels there in the past year. Neither are inexpensive, but the location is hard to beat. Downtown has a "small town" feel to me compared to other cities I have been in. Tons of restaurants of all kinds are within walking distance (so is a Title 9 ) - the Rio has killer margaritas!

You didn't say how old your son is but there is the Downtown Aquarium just off I-25 at 23rd st. It is conveniently located (ahem) near REI