When Kathy McCabe isn’t trotting the globe as the host and executive producer of Dream of Italy and the new Dream of Europe on PBS, she calls Denver’s Cherry Creek and Wash Park neighborhoods home. Since 2010, the seasoned traveler and award-winning storyteller has balanced her time between curating unforgettable European escapes for millions of viewers and uncovering the best local gems in her own backyard. Known for blending authentic experiences with a touch of star power—featuring guests like Sting, Andrea Bocelli, and Francis Ford Coppola—McCabe is now expanding her popular “Dream of” series beyond Italy, with her new Dream of Europe, which debuted in January. Here, McCabe shares her top travel recommendations, from up-and-coming global hot spots to places you can savor the good life right here in Denver.
Dining & Drinks
Favorite coffee shop: Aviano Coffee
Go-to spot for a quick and easy bite: Call Your Mother Deli
Best place for a dinner date: Hillstone
Quick lunch: Vital Roots
Top weekend brunch spot: Sassafras
A great work-from-here spot: The Radiator
Favorite hotel bar: Local Jones
Favorite desserts: Dolce Sicilia Bakery
Around Denver
Favorite place to go for inspiration: Sloan’s Lake
Favorite park: Wash Park
Favorite spa: Four Seasons Denver
Around Colorado
Favorite weekend getaway: Aspen in the summer
Favorite railroad trip: Train to Glenwood Springs
Global Adventures
Favorite country to visit: Italy
Best hotel brand: JK Hotel Groups
Best food trip: City of Modena in Italy—home to chef Massimo Bottura—think tortellini, balsamico (vinegar), Parmigiano reggiano cheese.
Favorite cruise: Regent Seven Seas in the Mediterranean
Favorite new hot spot: Albania
Best transportation method to travel Europe: Rent a car and drive—you see so much more
Happy place: Saturnia Hot Springs in Italy (Glenwood Springs’ Iron Mountain Hot Springs opened a new pool that mimics this!)
