Discover the Hidden Gems: Things to Do in Arvada, Colorado
Arvada, Colorado, is a charming town located just 10 miles northwest of Denver downtown. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and wide range of outdoor activities, Arvada is a popular destination for visitors of all ages. So whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike through nature, a day of shopping and dining, or a chance to learn about the local history, Arvada has something for everyone.
One of the top attractions in Arvada is the Cussler Museum, a unique museum dedicated to the life and work of famous author Clive Cussler. The museum features an extensive collection of classic cars, vintage boats, and rare automobiles that delight fans of automotive history. The museum is located in the heart of historic Olde Town Arvada, making it a perfect stop for visitors looking to explore the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Arvada offers several beautiful parks and nature preserves for outdoor enthusiasts, including the Ralston-Central Park and the Majestic View Nature Center. These destinations offer a variety of activities, from hiking and birdwatching to fishing and paddleboarding. So whether you’re looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery or exercise in the great outdoors, Arvada’s parks and nature preserves are perfect for visitors looking to explore Colorado’s natural beauty.
Cussler Museum
The Cussler Museum is a must-visit attraction for any automobile enthusiast visiting Arvada, Colorado. This museum, named after the best-selling author Clive Cussler, features an impressive collection of classic cars from the early 1900s to the mid-20th century. The museum is housed in a spacious 14,000-square-foot building that boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a wealth of knowledge about the history of the automobile industry.
Visitors can expect to see some of the rarest and most unique cars ever produced inside the Cussler Museum. The museum has over 100 vehicles on display, including Packards, Pierce-Arrows, Duesenbergs, and other American classics. However, the museum’s collection is not limited to American cars. It also features European cars such as the Mercedes-Benz 540K, considered one of the most elegant cars of its time. The museum also has a special exhibit dedicated to cars featured in Clive Cussler’s novels, including his famous character Dirk Pitt’s 1936 Ford Phaeton.
One of the most exciting things about the Cussler Museum is that it’s not just a museum but also an educational center. Visitors can take a guided tour of the automobile industry’s history and development. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the vehicles on display, and they provide fascinating insights into the design, engineering, and production of each car. The Cussler Museum is a perfect destination for anyone who loves cars and wants to learn more about the rich history of the automobile industry.
The Ralston-Central Park
The Ralston-Central Park is beautiful and spacious in Arvada, Colorado. The park spans over 20 acres and features various recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and it is the perfect place to relax, exercise, and spend time with friends and family.
The park’s design incorporates various landscapes, including open green spaces, wetlands, and a creek. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including walking and biking trails, fishing, picnicking, and playing on the playground. The park also features a splash pad, a community garden, and a state-of-the-art skate park. Ralston-Central Park is ideal for a sunny day in Arvada, with many activities available.
In addition to its numerous recreational amenities, Ralston-Central Park hosts several community events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and movies under the stars. The park also has a dedicated events plaza, which is used for various community gatherings, such as farmers’ markets and art shows. With its beautiful surroundings and abundant amenities, Ralston-Central Park is a perfect destination for fun, relaxing outdoor day.
Majestic View Nature Center
The Majestic View Nature Center is a beautiful nature preserve in Arvada, Colorado. The preserve spans over 80 acres and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The center is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Colorado and educating visitors about the importance of conservation. With its beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings, the Majestic View Nature Center is a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.
The nature center features several hiking trails that lead visitors through different habitats, including prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. The trails are well-maintained, and visitors can learn about the plants and animals that call the preserve home through informational signs. The center also offers guided nature walks and programs for children, making it an excellent place for families to learn about nature together.
In addition to its hiking trails, the Majestic View Nature Center also has an indoor facility with exhibits and educational materials about the natural history of Colorado. The facility offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including summer camps, wildlife photography classes, and lectures on various conservation topics. The center is also available for private events, making it a perfect destination for school field trips, family reunions, and corporate retreats.
Lake Arbor Park
Lake Arbor Park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation located in Arvada, Colorado. The park spans over 57 acres and features many amenities, including a large lake, multiple picnic areas, and playgrounds. With its beautiful scenery and family-friendly activities, Lake Arbor Park is an excellent destination for visitors of all ages.
The park’s main feature is its large lake, which allows visitors to fish, paddle, and enjoy the water. The lake is surrounded by walking trails that provide stunning water views and the park’s surroundings. Several picnic areas are also throughout the park, making it an excellent spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends. In addition, the park features several playgrounds for kids, including a sizeable castle-themed playground that is sure to provide hours of fun.
In addition to its recreational amenities, Lake Arbor Park hosts several community events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, movies, and fitness classes. The park also has a sizeable multi-use field, perfect for playing sports or hosting events.
Arvada Historical Society
The Arvada Historical Society is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of Arvada, Colorado. The museum is located in a historical building once home to the Arvada Flour Mill, and it features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the town’s rich cultural and historical heritage. With its fascinating displays and educational programming, the Arvada Historical Society is an excellent destination for history buffs and visitors interested in learning about the local history.
The museum features several permanent exhibits covering aspects of Arvada’s history, including the town’s founding, agricultural roots, and development over time. In addition, visitors can see artifacts from different periods, including clothing, tools, and photographs. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits focusing on aspects of Arvada’s history, including special events, local businesses, and notable figures from the town’s past.
In addition to its exhibits, the Arvada Historical Society also offers several educational programs and events throughout the year. The museum hosts lectures, workshops, and special events that allow visitors to learn more about Arvada’s history and engage with the local community. The museum also offers guided tours of the historic building and the surrounding area, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the town’s rich history.