For those well-versed in Denver’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene, Erik Dyce—locally celebrated as “Mr. Red Rocks”—needs no introduction. As the former chief marketing officer of the City and County of Denver’s Arts and Venues division, he spent two and a half decades amplifying the Mile High City’s cultural energy, elevating its status as a cultural epicenter. Dyce has proven time and again his knack for creating unforgettable experiences.
Now, donning his venture capitalist hat (presumably a tropical straw one), Dyce has traded the grandeur of Red Rocks for the beaches of Cherry Creek State Park’s Pelican Bay. Managed by Dyce’s Vencore Marine Group, Pelican Bay is an exquisite misfit in landlocked Colorado—and we’re here for it.
This summer, Dyce ups the ante at Pelican Bay with a robust 2023 summer concert series, Live! at the Lake. At Denver’s only beachfront concert venue., the lakeside stage is hosting tribute bands every Wednesday and a new tiki series on Thursdays throughout the summer, providing ample opportunities for you to dance on the sand.
With a passion for live music, a penchant for adventure, a keen eye for novelty, and a drive to make Denver the greatest city it can be, Dyce is your go-to guide for discovering the city’s vibrant scene. So we asked him to share some of his favorite spots with us.
The Basics
Name: Erik Dyce
Occupation: Owner and CEO Pelican Bay at Cherry Creek
Neighborhood: DTC
Lived in Denver Since: 1986
Dining + Drinks
Favorite coffee shop: The French Press
Love this wine bar: Dionysus Food & Wine
Great happy hour: Zane’s Italian Bistro
Great for drinks with colleagues: Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro
Go-to spot for a quick and easy bite: Bonefish Grill
Best place for a dinner date: Le Bilboquet
Quick lunch: The Hound Sports Pub + Burger
Ideal place for a second date: Chianti Ristorante Italiano
Top weekend brunch spot: New York Deli News
Favorite hotel bar: Ship Tavern
Favorite sushi: Sushi Den
Favorite pizza joint: Frank “The Pizza King”
Favorite steakhouse: Steakhouse 10
Favorite deli/sandwiches: Tony’s Market
Favorite yogurt or ice cream: Everbowl
Favorite outdoor/roof deck: The Lake House at Pelican Bay
Favorite spot to take out-of-town friends: Shanahan’s Steakhouse
An under-the-radar hidden gem: The Pub at Pelican Bay
Around Town
Favorite comedy club: Comedy Works
Favorite concert venue: Red Rocks
Great spot to catch a game: Ball Arena
Favorite philanthropy/nonprofit: Colorado Outward Bound School
Favorite local band/musician: Gregory Alan Isakov
Favorite spa: Woodhouse Day Spa
Favorite weekend getaway: Vail
Favorite shoe store: Dardano’s Shoes
Favorite place to shop for furniture/home goods: Arhaus
Favorite farmer’s market: Colorado Fresh Market at Cherry Creek Shopping Center
