Things to in Do Golden, Colorado – A Golden Weekend Getaway!

Whoa, cowboy, ready to reel in a bit of the Wild West 21st century style? Historic Golden, Colorado, offers much in the way of soft or hard adventure to quickly fill three full days. So, perhaps you’ve never heard of Golden.  A lot of people haven’t, as it is a small town of just over 20,000 people to the west of Denver.  Knowing that, you may wonder why you would possibly want to spend a weekend in Golden, Colorado.  We assure you that there are more things to do in Golden, Colorado than many US cities 10 times its size. And, many of these Golden attractions are both world class, and one of a kind!

How do we know this? Because Joanne Galko is our resident guest writer who has lived in the Colorado Front Range for 21 years. Joanne’s favorite time of the day is early morning when the Colorado sky is a brilliant blue. She often rides her bike through Golden and up Lookout Mountain stopping to enjoy the views along the way and then rewarding herself with a meal or shopping in downtown Golden.  

With its many attractions, restaurants, and breweries, not to mention the great outdoors, there will be no wasted moments wondering what to do in Golden, CO.  We have put together the following basic itinerary for a weekend in Golden, Colorado, with an outline for how to spend each of your 3 days in Golden, including where to eat, and many tips for you to customize your experience.  If that’s not enough, we will wrap up with even more things to do in Golden. We think you just might want to add a weekend in Golden to your travel plans after all of that!

This 3 Day Golden, Colorado Itinerary includes:

• Getting to Golden
• Lodging n Golden
• An outline for each of your 3 days in Golden
• More things to do in Golden.

So if you are ready to find out what to do in Golden, Colorado, and how to have an amazing 3 days, let’s get this weekend underway!

Getting to Golden

Colorado is a large state, and Golden lies well into the center.  If you are truly planning a weekend getaway, and you are coming from outside of Colorado, the only way to get to Golden with enough time for your adventures is to fly into either the Boulder Municipal Airport, or the Denver International Airport. 

If you are coming from elsewhere in Colorado, visiting as part of a bigger Colorado vacation, (perhaps a trip through Rocky Mountain National Park…) you can drive.  US Interstate 70 skims the outskirts of Golden, and it will be the easiest route to get into town, but if you are coming from north or south, use Interstate 25 to get to I70. 

Whether a road trip or arriving by air, it makes sense to have a car because some of the most spectacular sights lie just 15 minutes from downtown Golden. While you can use Uber, the price will add up quickly! Your choice for lodging can advise on parking options in town, and at various Golden, CO attractions.

We have had great experiences with Sixt Car Rentals, and you can get 10% off the full cost of your car out of Denver International Airport when you pre-pay with Sixt, through the image link.

Otherwise, choose the rental agency you prefer, and reserve your car out of Denver now.

 

Lodging in Golden

There is no shortage of lodging options in Golden, You will find almost every chain hotel, and a few budget hotels. But we think your lodging should be somewhere charming that you will remember just as fondly as the rest of your 3 days in Golden, Colorado. The following choices offer quaint and unique rooms, that are highly rated by visitors from around the globe. They are also all in locations that will make your experience very walkable.

Table Mountain Inn

Table Mountain Inn provides modern, upscale accommodations in a southwest, adobe-style right on Washington Avenue, the main street in Golden.

You can reserve your room at Table Mountain Inn at the best price right now!

The Dove Inn

Built in 1866, The Dove Inn has grown up, especially in the last 20 years. It has modernized amenities and hosts guests in a relaxing, local setting.

See why guests rate The Dove Inn a full 5 out of 5. Get a great price by reserving your room now!

The Golden Hotel

At the north end of Washington Avenue, The Golden Hotel offers western charm in a prime location on Clear Creek.

You can get a great price on The Golden Hotel, AND your stays count towards your Choice Rewards points, so reserve The Golden Hotel now!

Pansy’s Parlor

Pansy’s Parlor, another comfy Victorian Bed and Breakfast in the center of town, was built in 1879 and occupied by many generations of the Gow family of Golden pioneers.

The Silk Pincushion

A tad southeast is the Adults Only Silk Pincushion, a Victorian-style Bed and Breakfast.

You can enjoy a bit of nostalgia and romance, and get a great deal too. Reserve your room at the Silk Pincushion now!

Our 3 Day Golden, Colorado Itinerary

So if you are ready to consider all the amazing things there are to do in Golden, CO, and how to have an amazing weekend, read on to see just one of the options. This is how we would introduce a guest to this charming western town.

Weekend in Golden, Colorado – Day 1

Breakfast – Cafe 13

Should you require another option for breakfast, Cafe 13 opens daily at 6:30a. The restaurant occupies what was once a stone armory built in 1913. Café 13 underwent significant renovations a year ago, knocking out a wall to create a larger, open, airy space while still keeping a few individual group meeting rooms. A favorite haunt of local cyclists, Café 13 serves breakfast and lunch all day until 6p. 

Earth Sweet Botanicals

Directly across the street from Café 13 is Earth Sweet Botanicals. Don’t let this name fool you (the owner is considering changing the name) as this shop is neither a flower shop nor a pot shop. It is a delightful French-inspired boutique brimming with unusual jewelry, scarves, garden, and household décor. Open daily at 10a. This shop also offers various cooking and beauty classes throughout the week, so be sure to check out their schedule.

Coors Brewery Tour

Walk straight down 13th Street to Ford Street. Stand in line to pick up a shuttle for the Coors Tour. Yes, it’s touristy. However, you wouldn’t go to Paris and not visit the Eiffel Tower so you shouldn’t come to Golden and not visit its No. 1 brewery. Adolf Coors put Golden on the map, and this huge facility is worth a stop. Open most days 10a-4p (Sunday Noon to 4p).  The brewery is definitely one of the top things to do in Golden, CO.

• Tip: The hops brewing process delivers a pleasant aroma to the air on certain days, if you wonder what that fragrance is.

Lunch – Bob’s Atomic Burgers

If you need refueling, Bob’s Atomic Burgers opens daily at 11a just across from the shuttle stop. Order at the register. Then find limited seating inside or choose a table outside.

Colorado Railroad Museum

Depending upon your beer consumption, either drive or take a Lyft to the Colorado Railroad Museum, less than ten minutes away. Head north on Ford Street and make a right on 10th Street heading east which becomes 44th Avenue. Housing over 100 locomotives in its 15-acre rail yard, the museum offers a tour every Friday from 1-2p on some aspect of railroad history.

• Tip: Behind the Colorado Railroad Museum, find New Terrain Brewing hidden in Coors Technology Center. This local family favorite blends into the landscape and draws quite the crowd any day of the week with its delicious brews and food truck options.
• Tip: For the gear head lover, the Cussler Museum is a short 10-minute drive further north in the town of Arvada. The mystery author Clive Cussler keeps his stash of vintage automobiles here. Check ahead as times vary seasonally.

Downtown Shops

Head back into downtown Golden and stroll around. Interesting shops line both sides of Washington Avenue. The Clothesmine is mostly a consignment shop but specializes in more upscale apparel such as from Chico’s, Prana, or Ann Taylor.  

Are you feeling thirsty? Wander over to Golden’s second favorite, Golden City Brewery (GCB). Charlie and Janine Sturdavant, two geologists, have been hard at it for just over 25 years brewing in what is their backyard. The little patch has expanded over the years into a social beer garden, and Charlie and Janine still live next door. They host fun events like turkey frying for Thanksgiving. Order the Red Ale if unsure of what to get. There is always a food truck.

Around the corner from GCB is Colorado Plus 49 (or + 49), Golden’s only cidery and occupies a wholly renovated laundromat. The cidery offers four core ciders, three of which (Idunn, Knacker’s, and Elegast) have a similar apple essence except for the subtle differences of dryness versus sweetness. The fourth core cider (Yellow Bird) while still citrusy, adds hops to give it an herbal, earthy bitterness. 

Local and out-of-state (hence the meaning of + 49, i.e., the other 49 states) guest ciders are rotated, with a favorite being Black Widow’s Original Sin out of New York. The simple, non-tart, blackberry flavor of this easy-drinking cider is the reason customers rallied for its return. A food menu is also available.

Dinner

Trailhead Taphouse & Kitchen offers casual indoor/outdoor seating and is owned by the same couple as Windy Saddle, another Golden favorite for coffee, breakfast, or lunch.

• Tip: Try the Pathfinder, Trailhead’s version of the classic French Dip sandwich.

Evening Entertainment at The Rose

Check out the happenings at The Rose for entertainment. Remodeled and reopened spring of 2019, the Buffalo Rose is one of the oldest buildings in Colorado from the 1800s. The complex is now made up of five structures and is part concert venue and part bar/restaurant. The concert side hosts a variety of nationally known acts, as well as tribute bands.

 

• Tip: During performances, check out the State Room bar on the second floor. This spot is where legislation was signed that moved the capital of Colorado to Denver (Golden was the capital when Colorado was a territory before it became a state). 
• Tip: The restaurant side of the Buffalo Rose either under the retractable glass roof or on the small patio is an excellent place to enjoy a beverage. Listen to live music on certain afternoons.

A Nightcap at Golden Moon Speakeasy

To cap off your first day in Golden, stop in the Golden Moon Speakeasy. Hidden in Miner’s Alley, Golden Moon offers hand-crafted specialty cocktails made from their distillery. A live music scene happens Thursday through Saturday.  

Weekend in Golden, Colorado – Day 2

Breakfast Options

Pangea Coffee Roasters and Higher Grounds Cafe are both excellent coffee spots to begin Day 2.

• Tip: The Golden Farmer’s Market is held Saturdays 8a-1p June to October at 10th and Illinois. If you prefer, you may be able to pick u p some fresh produce or baked goods for breakfast.

The School of Mines

Begin the day with a walk around the beautiful School of Mines campus, one of the iconic things to do in Golden. Be sure to visit their Geology Museum open most days 9a-4p (Sunday 1-4p). The considerable collection displayed on two floors showcases a large mineral exhibit, colorful gemstones, crazy-shaped rocks, meteorites, moon and mining history. Poke your head behind the curtain to see the natural glowing fluorescent minerals. You will leave here saying, “Wow, that was really cool.”

Foothills Art Center

Foothills Art Center offers art exhibits and events displayed in a Gothic church. The center has three separate galleries, each featuring a different exhibit collection. Collections range from local students, illustrative art, landscapes, and textile arts.

Lunch Options

Next to Foothills Art Center is Sherpa House offering delicious Himalayan dishes in a beautiful setting. Wander the property looking for artifacts from Sherpa culture. This place makes for a great photo opportunity.

For more ethnic cuisine, Thai Gold is down the hill on Washington Avenue to the right on 14th Street. Set in a historical building, Thai Gold offers daily lunch specials, curries, and noodle dishes.

If ethnic cuisine is not quite what you were thinking, consider the Bridgewater Grill (standard American) and Sassafras (Cajun-inspired). Both restaurants offer patio seating overlooking Clear Creek.

Golden Visitors Center and Golden History Museum

After lunch, cross over the bridge. Depending on the weather, you may see a plenty of people out on the creek, as tubing is fun for all ages on Clear Creek April through August, and it is one of the favorite things to do in Golden. The Golden Visitors Center (GVC) is a great place to pick up any information.  Behind the GVC is the Golden History Museum and Park. Take a stroll along the creek.

• Tip: Be sure to pick up a “Golden Ticket” at the GVC for a percentage discount at participating businesses.
• Tip: Mountain Toad Brewing is a block north on the west side of 9th Street.
• Tip: Xicamiti La Taqueria Bistro is two blocks north on the east side just before the highway entrance. It doesn’t look like much but delivers some of the best Mexican street food.
• Tip: Cannonball Creek Brewing is further north, about a 15-20 minute walk.

Lookout Mountain Road

Next, drive up Lookout Mountain Road via 19th Street pass the “M” (for School of Mines) to the top. This route is popular with the local cycling community, and you must drive it once during your 3 days in Golden, CO. Drive slowly and allow plenty of space as there are tight switchbacks and blind curves with cars coming down.  

Buffalo Bill’s Museum and Grave, along with gorgeous views, greet you at the top. The museum is the best place to learn the legend of William F. Cody. You can also find a gift shop, snack shop, and restrooms. 

Boettcher Mansion

Continue further down and follow signs for the historic Boettcher Mansion on the right. This lovely estate, often the venue for weddings, offers self-guided history tours Monday-Friday 8a-4p and by appointments on weekends. Enjoy a walk through the nature preserve before heading back down the mountain.  

• Tip: Before parking the car, head north on 6th Avenue and make a left at the intersection where Highways 93 and 58 converge. This road is still 6th Avenue, otherwise known as Clear Creek Canyon Road. Drive up the canyon a bit, as least through the first tunnel (there are three) to get a feel for the majesty of nature.
• Tip: Black Hawk and Central City are two mining towns turned casino towns about a half-hour drive from Golden via Clear Creek Canyon. You can return the same way or via I-70.

Dinner

By now, you’re probably hungry and thirsty so check out Barrels and Bottles. Besides 27 craft brews, they have a state-of-the-art wine system with 24 wines, wine slushies, and a food menu offering baguettes and small plates. You are welcome to bring in Anthony’s Pizza located at the corner. 

Evening Entertainment

For tonight’s entertainment, check out what’s playing at Miners Alley Playhouse, a casual 130-seat theater offering great performances, such as the romantic musical Once. Another idea is to opt for a game of pool at Ace Hi Tavern. Considered the only dive bar in town, Ace Hi opened in 1961 and is still one of the local favorite things to do in Golden.

Weekend in Golden, Colorado – Day 3

Breakfast

Start your final day with a great bagel from Woodgrain Bagel & Deli located on 12th Street in a food hall called the Tributary that just opened in August 2019. Eat it inside, outside, or take it to go. Adventure awaits. 

Red Rocks Amphitheater

It’s time to make the short 15-minute drive over to Red Rocks. Maybe you have heard of it. If not, you won’t ever forget it. It is one of the grandest, most awe-inspiring, natural amphitheaters in the world. It’s THE place to see concerts, Easter morning services, and yoga sessions. A visit is another one of the essential things to do in Golden. Just walking up and down the steps will afford much exercise. 

Take 6th Avenue east and turn right onto Heritage Road. Go through three roundabouts. Heritage Road becomes West Colfax Avenue, i.e., US40. US40 was “the” main road before the massive I-70 highway dug through the mountains. At the intersection for the I-70 interchange, choose to go underneath the freeway which becomes County Road 93. In less than two minutes, you’ll see signs for Red Rocks. Keep going and take Entrance 2. Follow the road to the top. You’ll pass through a hole in the rock. Keep going a little further, and you will end at a small parking lot. From here, you can easily walk to the top of the amphitheater avoiding all the steps. Enjoy the grandiose views amongst the spectacular red rocks. 

The Red Rocks museum is a must. It first details the geological formation. Then the fun begins. Listen to music, watch videos, hear first-hand accounts as artists reminisce about playing here, and look at all the groovy pictures lining the walls. If you’re a music buff, you can easily while away a couple of hours here.

Morrison, Colorado

Next, continue down the road about three minutes from Entrance 2. You will come the back way to the little town of Morrison via Stone Street. Turn right. You’re in the middle of about three or four blocks of quirky, artsy shops and casual restaurants. The Morrison Inn is a popular Mexican restaurant.

• Tip: Find additional parking in the back. Make a U-turn and head east. Turn left at Market Street and another left at Mt. Vernon Avenue. You’ll see parking spots if you want to stop and browse. 

Mother Cabrini Shrine

The Mother Cabrini Shrine was created to honor the life of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini who came to Denver in 1902 and worked to help Italian immigrants.   

After visiting the shrine, there are many places for quiet reflection, such as the Rosary Garden or the Meditation Walk. Visit the tiny museum, chapel, and gift shop.

Back out on US40, continue heading west for a glimpse of the glorious Rocky Mountains. US40 will eventually bring you to the Genesee Exit onto I-70. At this corner is the Buffalo Overlook and you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Colorado’s bison herd. The bison can roam to the other side from a tunnel carved under I-70.

Lunch Options

From here, you have options. Continue west two more exits to the Evergreen Exit (5 minutes), and stop for a bite and a brew at El Rancho Brewing Company. Continue west on I-70 for another 15 minutes and visit Idaho Springs for more eating, shopping, and exploring. You’re really in the Rockies now!

Head east on I-70 getting off at either Exit 256 and take the road down Lookout Mountain back into Golden or Exit 259 heading back into Golden the way you initially began.  D’deli works for an easy lite bite back in downtown Golden.

Afternoon Options

Depending on how absorbed you become in the morning activities, and how far you go, there may not be much of an afternoon left. So we have kept this afternoon mainly as free time.  But if you do need a couple more things to do in Golden, CO, here are a couple choices.

Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum

If you still want something new, find your way to the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, a 10-minute drive east to a technology center where I-70, US40, and 6th Avenue converge. Explore quilting and quiltmaking traditions.

State 38 Distilling

In that same area on the other side is State 38 Distilling. Started by a CU graduate, Sean Smiley, State 38 was named for the 38th state to enter the union. Sean is happy to tell you his story about how he came to open a distillery. Open 4-6p, closed Sunday and Monday.

• Tip: You can sample State 38 products at the Buffalo Rose or Woody’s Pizza.

Dinner Options

Reserve a table for your final send-off meal at Abejas with its rustic ambiance, or the modern Indulge Bistro and Wine Bar. The duo behind Abejas uses fresh local ingredients to create exemplary combinations. The building itself was once a Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Either of these restaurants will provide the icing on your weekend and conclude a wonderful getaway to Golden, Colorado.

Tip: This itinerary strives to provide a variety of things to see and what to do in Golden, CO. We hope you can use this itinerary as a template, Choose what works for your group and supplement with personal interest activities.  So in case we didn’t hit anything up your alley yet, read on. As we said, there is no shortage of what to do in Golden, Colorado!

More Things to Do in Golden, Colorado

• Dinosaur enthusiasts can’t miss Dinosaur Ridge. A National Natural Landmark, and the #1 ranked dinosaur track location in the US, Dino Ridge is an open air museum where you can see dino bones, footprints and other fossils.
• Couple Dino Ridge with a visit to the Morrison Natural History Museum, to learn about paleontology in action. Learn how area fossils were discovered, witness the ongoing process, and a ton of other related experiences.
• Colorado is all about the outdoors. Hiking Trails and Trail Maps are numerous. All 3 mountains surrounding Golden have established and well-marked trails.
• If you prefer to stay on the streets rather than the trails, try the self-guided walking tour of Golden. You will learn all kinds of interesting historical facts. For example, did you know Jolly Ranchers were created in Golden? Pick up the route at the Golden History Museum.
• If getting out on the water is better than he trail for you, Clear Creek Rafting provides adventures, weather permitting. You probably saw how much fun everyone was having, so try it yourself.
• For a different water experience, Rocky Mountain Paddleboard offers stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals on Big Soda Lake and Bear Creek Lake. Lessons are available for newbies too.
• Satisfy your need for speed by hitting one of the events at the Bandimere Speedway. The Bandimere has regular weekly events, and hosts high profile tournaments. Bring your earplugs!
• Try out the drag strip yourself, at Action Karting. The high speed track is an adrenaline rush for all ages. Full safety suits are available for rent, and parents must sign a waiver for children ages 7 to 18.
• If you prefer 2 wheels to 4, pick up a Motocross race at Thunder Valley. If there are no upcoming races, it may be just as fun to watch the open track sessions.
• Pick up your own set of wheels at the Golden Bike Library. Open from April through October, the library allows visitors to “check out” a bike for 2 hours at no cost, or for a full day for $10. They can also give advice on the best trails for biking.
• Try out the art of fly fishing, at the Golden Mile, a first class trout habitat right in town. Get your license and rent gear at Golden River Sports, or set up a guided trip.

Ready for a Weekend in Golden, Colorado?

We imagine you might be pleasantly surprised by all the adventurous things to do in Golden, Colorado. There really is something for everyone. Whether you follow our 3 day Golden, CO itinerary, or you create an entire new one of your own, it is certain you will love your weekend, a feel a bit nostalgic for the old west.

Before you leave us, PIN this, so you remember what to do in Golden, Colorado.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway in the central states, and Golden isn’t quite it, you may be interested in some of our other Weekend Getaway options.

• How about Hannibal, Missouri?
• Or perhaps, outside of Omaha, Nebraska?
• Perhaps St. Louis is more your style?
• Or further south in Austin, Texas?

About the author: Joanne Galko | Freelance Travel Writer