JUNE 15-19, 2026
Grand Hyatt Berlin - Potsdamer Platz
Urban Exploration is off to BERLIN, Germany!
WHY URBAN EXPLORATION?
Creating change requires leadership, vision, and a willingness to learn from each other. That's why we created Urban Exploration. Since 2008, this destination-based experiential program has brought together Denver's business, non-profit, and civic leaders to discover and embrace best practices and innovative ideas from cities around the world.
Through immersive multi-day itineraries featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, we foster the collaboration and learning essential to shaping our city's future.
By bringing together diverse, influential voices, we cultivate a vibrant community committed to driving positive change. This program equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and connections necessary to transform Downtown Denver into a thriving center city that embodies sustainable development, inclusivity, and innovation. We seek out and share exemplary practices to contribute to the ongoing evolution of our city's landscape, ensuring its long-term resiliency and success.
Urban Exploration is driven by our shared commitment to building a vibrant, forward-thinking Downtown Denver, where discovery leads to inspiration, and inspiration leads to action as we build a great city together.
WHY BERLIN?
Berlin has transformed from a divided city into a model of bold urban reinvention. Through visionary design, progressive policy, and grassroots action, Berlin has created public spaces that are both practical and joyful, turning former airfields into parks and canals into civic commons.
Our 2026 program will immerse participants in Berlin's spirit of possibility. Through meetings with local leaders, site visits, and hands-on experiences, we'll explore how collaboration and political will turn ambitious ideas into reality. Participants will return to Denver with actionable insights to advance the Downtown Area Plan and inspire the next chapter of city building
What We'll Learn
Our program focuses on lessons directly applicable to Denver:
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Affordable housing innovation, infill development, and human-scale neighborhood design
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Large-scale development sites with innovative approaches to sustainability and mobility
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Public spaces reimagined for play, prioritizing families in urban life
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How Berlin owns its past and advances arts and culture through activation and placemaking
