Cheer on the Falcons in Denver

Denver, Colorado, is the only U.S. city that was awarded a chance to host the Olympics but declined. This incredible place is full of opportunities for family fun and outdoor adventures among the beautiful red rocks and pristine natural areas. The cheeseburger was supposedly invented here, so be sure to grab one in between visiting these three exciting attractions:

Falcon Stadium
If you want to see the U.S. Air Force Falcons football team, drive your Denver rental car to 2169 Field House Drive. This is their home turf, where the athletes play in front of 46,692 seats full of fans. The facility opened on Sept. 22, 1962 when the Air Force beat Colorado State 24-0. Although the stadium was built for football, the Falcons lacrosse team also calls it home and the Air Force Academy graduation ceremonies are annually held here as well. When you visit be sure to check out the FieldTurf. It was installed in 2006 and covers 84,480 square feet. The substance cost $750,000 and is surrounded by 26,520 square feet of native grasses. There are 450 seats indoors as well as a total of 88 skyboxes and a press box to accommodate the entire crowd and members of the media. Wear your silver and blue when you visit Falcon Stadium and you'll fit right in with the crowd.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Head to 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road where you can enjoy the country's only mountain zoo. Here you can see interesting animals from all over the world. There are aquatic animals like the hippos, fish and beavers, and even a bunch of frogs! Check out the Monkey Pavilion to see mangabeys, gibbons and lemurs and then head to the Asian Highlands exhibit to watch Amur tigers, snow leopards and other big cats. There are also some native species here that you might run into outside of the gates as well as inside, such as grizzly bears, lynx, porcupines, bald eagles, mountain lions and even mountain goats. Head to The Loft to see what it's like to be hands-on with the animals in the care of their zoo keepers. You'll make memories with the animals at this fun location.

Pikes Peak
Drive your Denver rental car up the Pikes Peak Toll Road for incredible views unlike anywhere else. This spot is one of the most famous mountains in the country.  You'll need to drive in first or second gear to get to the top and once you're there you can enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Located just one hour outside of Denver, this area is a National Historic Landmark. Driving there takes a total of 18 miles of uphill climb and once you reach the top you are at 14,000 feet above sea level. It may be warm down below or in town, but remember, this is a mountain. Often the temperature at the top is much cooler than elsewhere, so be sure to plan accordingly.