REI050

This is the place to outfit the family for a foray into the outdoors, whether it's hiking a 14-er, camping in the front range, or heading into the high country for a little skiing or kayaking.

REI started out in 1938 as a humble cooperative and evolved into an upscale megastore for people who demand the best in outdoor gear.

Baby and kid stuff abounds: look for high-quality baby joggers, bike trailers, and trail packs; family camping gear; kids' bikes and helmets; performance footwear; skis and snow gear; rain gear, outdoorsy toys, and rugged, stylish clothes for kids of all ages (Patagonia, Cherry Tree, Gramicci).

Rent tents, backpacks, sleeping bags/pads, paddling gear, and snowshoes at the store. (Not all stores carry all gear.) Rental fees average about $18/first day - fees depend on membership status and equipment type.

Stores have a full schedule of outdoor-related talks and programs, but these are primarily geared toward adults (although there is an occasional family-related event; check REI's website for details.) The Climbing Pinnacle is open most weekends; call ahead to double-check.

Even if you aren't the outdoorsy type, a visit to the Flagship store really is a treat. The store showcases amazing architecture and top-notch historic restoration - it was built in the former 1901 Denver Tramway building, which once housed the Forney Transportation Museum. Outdoors, visitors can meander through a lovely native-oriented garden complete with life-size statues of bears and other wildlife. A stone's-throw away is Confluence Park and the Platte River Trolley, and the views of downtown Denver's skyline from here can't be beat.