Denver is known as the mile high city and its proximity to the Rocky Mountains go a long ways in making it a popular destination. Denver has a rich history, especially when it comes to its ties to the famous old west. But, here are 7 things you don't know about the city of Denver.

1. When the city of Denver was founded (called Denver City at the time) in 1858 it was part of the Kansas Territory.

2. Though still a fairly young city and being located far away from the major population hubs at the time, Denver hosted the 1908 Democratic National Convention.

3. The current population of Denver is estimated to be the highest it has ever been at any point in history.

4. The official reference point for the Mountain Time Zone is the 105th meridian west of Greenwich where it passes through Denver Union Station.

5. Denver was selected to host the 1976 Winter Olympics, but Colorado citizens voted down public funding meant to pay for the high priced venues that would be built for the games.

6. The first settlement in the area that would later become the city of Denver was named Montana City.

7. Denver plays a large part in the beat poetry movement. Jack Kerouac owned a home in the Denver suburm of Lakewood and part of his beat masterpiece On The Road is set in the city. Beat poet Allen Ginsberg also lived in Denver for a brief time.

Combining its status as one of the largest cities in the region and its location near so many outdoor recreation opportunities, the city of Denver will continue to be a popular destination for quite some time.