The Peaks Lounge offers best skyline view until patio weather returns

Hyatt Regency Denver

We don't normally frequent hotel bars in Denver, but searching for a place to show some relatives the lay of the land, we stopped at the Hyatt Regency, 650 15th Street, over the weekend for a couple of drinks in the Peaks Lounge on the 27th floor, with its floor-to-ceiling windows.

Couples and vacationers had nabbed the high tables and lounge areas, talking quietly in the dim light while the glow of downtown glittered below us. And as we sipped cocktails, we pointed out Union Station, LoDo and the tall buildings that comprise our skyline.

You pay for that view -- drinks are clearly priced for expense accounts -- but the bar makes a solid negroni, and we'll be bringing visitors back for expansive views of Denver until patio weather returns. Bonus: the place is serving up holiday cocktails all month. And with a good bar menu, we could imagine whiling away a long, cozy evening over a cheese plate with a date.