Colorful Colorado is so named because of its vast, mountainous landscape that is resplendent with brilliant wildflowers in spring and summer, vibrant red, orange, and golden hues in the fall, and skies that light ablaze with tranquil pinks and purples at sunrise and sunset year-round. Visitors come from around the world to gaze upon its towering peaks, fish the peaceful alpine rivers, and hike some of Colorado’s more than 5,000 trails. Simply put, Colorado is a nature lover’s paradise.

But there is one quaint town nestled right up against the Front Range Mountains a short drive west of Denver that is particularly special. It’s charming, full of history, and minutes from all the nature-inspired activities you can think of. Continue reading to learn more about the endless things to do in Golden, Colorado, and what makes it the perfect Small Town Getaway.

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Golden, Colorado is arguably the most charming small town in the Centennial State. Surrounded by mountains and mesas such as Castle Rock, Table Mountains North and South, Lookout Mountain, and more, this historic little town is one of the best-kept secrets in Colorado.
milehightraveler / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Continue reading on as we've prepared the ultimate Golden Travel Guide to make your planning and travel experience a breeze. This guide highlights many of Golden's best restaurants, hotels, attractions, and unique tours, as well as some of the most scenic places in all of Colorado.

Is Golden Worth Visiting?

Visitors to colorful Golden, Colorado will find a little town that is bustling with culture, history, thriving businesses, and scenery galore. You'll be swept away by its rustic allure from the moment you arrive.
Barry Winiker / The Image Bank via Getty Images
But what is Golden known for? Perhaps the name is its biggest tell-tale: gold was discovered in Clear Creek, the river that passes through the heart of town, in the mid-19th century, resulting in a Gold Rush in this little corner of the state. Gold miners and other visitors soon discovered that the soils in the area were rich in minerals, leading to rapid growth in farming and agriculture.

Then-named Golden City was nearly designated the capital city of Colorado, but Denver snagged that title; however, this town remains an important cultural staple along the Front Range. Today, the City of Golden thrives with its historic western flair mixed with plentiful modern luxuries and close access to the beautiful mountains for which Colorado is best known.

How To Get To Golden

Golden, Colorado is located about 15 miles - or 24 minutes - west of Denver. From I-25, simply take US-6 W/W 6th Ave toward the mountains.
Google Maps
Then, you'll exit right for Johnson Rd., follow it right until you reach the traffic circle. Take the third exit for S. Golden Rd, then at the next traffic circle exit on Ford Street. Follow Ford Street for about a mile, and you've reached Golden.

Getting Around Golden

Getting around Golden is a breeze! In fact, accessing downtown Golden is an easy walking or biking distance for most. There is also a free shuttle service that will take you most anywhere in town you'd like.
Managment / VisitGolden.com
Additional transportation is available free of charge via the Ore Cart Free Transit Service. The "Gold Route" is also known as the Downtown Circulator and includes stops along Clear Creek and Marv Kay Stadium remote parking lots, the downtown parking garages, Washington Ave. and the Colorado School of Mines campus. This is a great opportunity to peruse the Golden Library as well as the Farmer's Market.

Best Time To Visit Golden

Summer is hands down the best time of year to visit the beautiful town of Golden, Colorado. You'll be able to take advantage of the widest variety of outdoor activities in Golden - such as rock climbing in Clear Creek Canyon - than at any other time of year.
Management / TripAdvisor
That said, fall colors in Golden - particularly along Clear Creek - are quite beautiful to take in. And don't put off winter altogether: there are plenty of exciting outdoor winter activities within close reaches of the town, such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and so much more.

Where To Stay In Golden

If you're considering a weekend (or longer) trip to Golden, the first item on your agenda might be to find lodging. There are a handful of hotels in the area, but one in particular stands apart from the rest for its charm and convenience.
The Eddy Taproom & Hotel, 1640 8th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / TripAdvisor
The Eddy Taproom and Hotel is a stylish hotel full of rustic allure and an inviting atmosphere. It offers modern amenities, mountain views, an on-site restaurant, a rooftop terrace and firepits, and so much more.
The Eddy Taproom & Hotel, 1640 8th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / TripAdvisor
You'll find the rooms at the Eddy Taproom and Hotel to be warm and inviting, thoughtfully appointed, and quite cozy. You'll have all the comfort and amenities your heart desires. Treat yourself to yoga classes in the fitness room, cocktails in the lounge, and relax by the fire pit, then retreat back to your welcoming abode. You'll feel right at home here.

 

Morning One: Natural Wonders, A Scenic Hike, And Dinosaurs

Order breakfast delivered to your room for a simple and cozy start to your day with breakfast in bed. Then, make your way toward your first stop of the day at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado. The earlier you can arrive at the park the better in order to soak in the beautiful morning light.
Adam-Springer / iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is Colorado's premiere and most iconic outdoor concert venue. This open-air amphitheatre is unique in that it is cut into the red rock formations that surround it. But this natural landmark is not just great for enjoying outdoor concerts (although you're in for a treat if you time your visit with a concert at the venue), visitors also come to jog up its stairs or even do yoga for an invigorating morning workout in between events.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 303-319 CO-8, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
Jeremy Poland / E+ Collection via Getty Images
Music legends such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, The Grateful Dead, and countless other legendary artists, musicians, bands, and symphonies from around the world have performed live here at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Red Rocks Trading Post, 17900 Trading Post Rd, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
Ricky Shelly / AllTrails
While exploring Red Rocks Park, you'll want to check out the 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail for some panoramic views you won't forget. Otherworldly red rock formations jut out of the landscape everywhere you look, offering truly awe-inspiring scenes.
Next, you'll want to make your way to the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center in Morrison, which is located a short 0.6 miles north on Hog Back Road.
Colorado859 / TripAdvisor
The best way to experience Dinosaur Ridge is by purchasing one of the 45-minute guided tours, which includes transportation on a small passenger bus as well as access to the Exhibit Hall. The guides will help explain all the various dinosaur tracks, fossils, and exhibits for a fully-immersive, history-packed experience for the Dinosaur lovers in your family or group.

Afternoon One: Mexican Food And A Wild West Walking Tour

After your morning's adventures, you'll surely have worked up an appetite. Make your way back north to the heart of Golden and settle down for delightful eats and refreshments at the Table Mountain Grill & Cantina.
Table Mountain Grill & Cantina, 1310 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Table Mountain Grill & Cantina / Facebook
Table Mountain Grill & Cantina / Facebook
If you have a love of Southwestern Cuisine (and who doesn't?) you'll love this cozy cantina. With vibrant menu items such as the Tableside Flaming Asadero Cheese, Elote Empanadas, Rocky Mountain Ruby Trout, Table Mountain's Carne Asada and so much more, your only challenge will be deciding where to start! Don't pass up one of Table Mountain Grill & Cantina's Signature Margaritas, draft beers, or premiere wines.
After lunch, walk off some calories with an exciting journey back through Golden's history to learn about its earliest pioneers and settlers on one of Golden's Wild West Walking Tours or Pub Crawls.
Downtown Golden, Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Golden History Tours / Facebook
Downtown Golden, Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Golden History Tours / Facebook
Whether you choose the standard Walking Tour or the more lively (and adult-catered) Pub Crawl route, your tour guide will lead you through the streets of downtown Golden as you immerse yourself in its history and culture. There is truly no better way to explore the historic little town of Golden. Try to aim for the 1:30 pm (or the closest available) time slot to allow for the evening's activities.

Evening One: Mineral Museum, Fun At The Park, And Delectable Dining

If you are able to wrap up your Wild West historic tour in time to quickly make your way to the Mines Museum at the Colorado School of Mines, you'll be in for a truly special treat.
Mines Museum of Earth Science, 1310 Maple St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / Colorado School of Mines
Mines Museum of Earth Science, 1310 Maple St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
175MOM / TripAdvisor
And one of the best parts about this museum is that admission is free! Or, you can reserve a guided tour (at least one week in advance) for $13 per adult, $7 each for seniors, and $5 per child. The last guided tour of the day typically begins at 3 pm, and they close at 4 pm. Come admire some of the most rare and unique mineral and fossil specimens from Colorado and around the world.
Next, find your way to Golden History Park. Here, children and adults alike can learn more Golden history, admire the well-preserved historic buildings and farmhouses, and then the children can play while parents take a breather. Admission to the Golden History Museum and Park is free!
Golden History Museum, 923 10th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / Golden History Museum & Park

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Find your way to Abejas Bistro for a delightfully eclectic dining experience as you begin to wind down your evening.
Abejas, 807 13th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Abejas Bistro / Facebook
Abejas, 807 13th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Abejas Bistro / Facebook
Abejas is one of Golden's most highly-rated restaurants due to its inviting atmosphere, top-tier service, and each menu item is crafted to perfection. Choose from mouth-watering Seared Scallops, Caviar Service, Fresh Market Fish, Duck Breast, or Bison New York Strip among many other delectable courses.

If you'd prefer a more casual and affordable dining environment, Rock Rest Lodge is an upbeat bar and grill with traditional American fare in a pub-like setting. You'll find pool tables and a few arcade games if that suits your mood.
Finish out your evening with a cocktail or two in front of one of the rooftop firepits back at The Eddy Taproom & Hotel as you watch the sunset over the mountains.
Management / TripAdvisor

Morning Two: Breakfast Cafe And An Iconic Brewery Tour

Begin your next morning in Golden with a delicious made-from-scratch breakfast at Cafe 13.
Cafe 13, 1301 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / TripAdvisor
Cafe 13, 1301 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Cafe 13 / Facebook
You won't want to miss out on Cafe 13's Breakfast Burrito, Gold Plate Special, or the Fully Loaded Avocado Toast to start your morning off right. We highly recommend that you arrive early, due to the crowds this delightful cafe can sometimes attract. They are there for good reason: delicious food and a perfectly concocted array of espressos, lattes, and more.
After breakfast, make your way to the famous Coors Brewery for a brewery tour unlike any other. You'll want to make tour reservations at least a few weeks or more in advance, as tickets for this popular Golden attraction fill up and sell out quickly.
Coors Brewery Tour, 502 14th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
NYC Edge / TripAdvisor
Coors Brewery Tour, 502 14th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Royce M / TripAdvisor
These tours last an hour and a half and you must be 21 years of age or older to sample any of the beers. Coors Brewery was built in 1873 and is the world's largest single-site brewery. The tour explores the brewery's fascinating history and its extensive malting and brewing processes. You can also choose the "Sample Only" option if you're unable to reserve a full-length tour, and this lasts 45 minutes and allows three samples from the Coors brand of beers. Coors Brewery is arguably one of the most iconic breweries in Colorado and its tours are top-rated.

Afternoon Two: Burgers, A Scenic Drive, and Whitewater Rafting

After your brewery tour concludes, head on over to Bob's Atomic Burgers for lunch.
Bob's Atomic Burgers, 1310 Ford St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Bob's Atomic Burgers / Facebook
Bob's Atomic Burgers, 1310 Ford St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Bob's Atomic Burgers / Facebook
Bob's Atomic Burgers are mouth-watering, juicy, and flavorful, and offer a variety of toppings and options to fully customize your burger to your liking. But pay special attention to their Daily Specials, such as "It's Raining in Minneapolis" shown here, which features blue cheese, smoked bacon, and Prince Sauce. Bob's Atomic Burgers even offers Gluten Free options for those with dietary restrictions so you can still enjoy these delicious eats.
After lunch, pack up and head out for one of the most scenic drives in Colorado: Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway. Begin by heading west from Golden and make your way up Lookout Mountain Road.
Lookout Mountain Road, Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Edward Phillips / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Be sure to pull off the road and take in these sweeping mountain views as often as you can, such as at the Windy Saddle overlook.
The first stop on your route is the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for another journey back into this area's fascinating historical roots.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, 987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Dianne W / TripAdvisor
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, 987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Luc D / TripAdvisor
William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody was among the most famous pioneers of his time, and you'll learn why he desired to be buried atop Lookout Mountain, along with other fascinating details about his Wild West shows for which he was well known in those early years.
Continue down the road toward Lookout Mountain for some truly breathtaking views of the landscape before you. Be sure to check out the Lookout Mountain Nature Center just a little further down the road as well.
Lookout Mountain, Colorado 80401, USA
Clare S / TripAdvisor
Continue along Lookout Mountain Road until it connects to I-70 and complete your loop back to Golden so that you can head to your next destination: Clear Creek Whitewater Park.
Clear Creek White Water Park, 1201 10th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
rubypeanut / TripAdvisor
Clear Creek White Water Park, 1201 10th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Daniel Milchev / The Image Bank via Getty Images
Here, you'll find endless recreation opportunities along the beautiful and iconic Clear Creek of Golden. You can bring your own kayaks or tubes, or you can rent either of these from local outfitters found at the bottom of the Clear Creek informational guide. You can also fish or swim in designated areas. Rejuvenate your spirit within the clear, cool waters on a hot summer day.

Evening Two: Wood-Fired Pizza, A Distillery Tour, And S’mores

Once you wrap up your water recreation excitement, head to Woody's Wood Fired Pizza in the heart of downtown Golden for dinner at one of the town's most beloved pizzerias.
Woody's Wood Fired Pizza, 1305 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / TripAdvisor
Woody's Wood Fired Pizza, 1305 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Management / TripAdvisor
Choose from one of Wood's tantalizing Specialty Pizzas such as their Blue Buffalo Chicken, White Rooster, the Tree Hugger, or Woody's Golden Blackjack Pizzas. Don't see a pizza and topping combination that calls to you? Customize your own! For a budget-friendly option, choose the pizza, soup, & salad bar special for only $15.99, "All Day, Every Day". Woody's Wood Fired Pizza is a Golden staple that your whole family or group is sure to love.
As you continue to wind down for the evening, make your way to State 38 Distilling to sample some of Colorado's finest spirits.
State 38 Distilling, 400 Corporate Cir STE B, Golden, CO 80401, USA
State 38 Distilling / Facebook
State 38 Distilling, so named after Colorado's status as the 38th state, distills its own vast selection of whiskeys, Hacedor Agave Spirits, Damn Smooth spirits, and more, all while sourcing only the best and most pure ingredients. You'll surely want to bring a bottle home with you to enjoy later.
Finally, close out your adventurous day by roasting marshmallows over the firepit back at The Eddy Hotel & Taproom. And bonus points if you bring the makings for s'mores so that you can enjoy a truly delicious treat as you watch the sunset on your final night in the beautiful town of Golden.
The Eddy Taproom & Hotel, 1640 8th St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
JasonDoiy / E+ Collection via Getty Images

Watch the YouTube video below for an in-depth preview of all the highlights of the City of Golden.

 

You’ll find it easy to fall in love with the charming and historic town of Golden, Colorado, a town full of surprising history. For example, did you know that Jolly Ranchers were invented in Golden? It’s true!

For another kid-friendly attraction in Golden, children and adults alike will love the Colorado Railroad Museum. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Golden, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your travel planning today!

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More to Explore

Things To Do In Golden, Colorado

Jessica Moore | August 01, 2023

What are the best restaurants in Golden?

The best restaurants in Golden include the following:

 

Golden offers a wide variety of cuisine options to choose from, and you'll find no shortage of delicious places to eat in this small but thriving town.

What are the best outdoor activities to do in Golden?

The best outdoor activities in (or near) Golden include the following (some activities are season-dependent):

 

Golden is a very outdoor-centric community, so you'll find no shortage of opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round.

What are the best things to do in Golden in the summer?

The best things to do in Golden in the summer include the following:

 

Opportunities for outdoor adventures in and near Golden are truly endless in the summertime.

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