Places to visit in Golden, CO.
If you are visiting the Colorado area, there are many things to do in Golden. You can enjoy nature, shopping, dining, and more. In addition, you can find plenty of attractions and museums to visit. So whether you are looking for a family-friendly vacation or want to explore the area’s history, Golden has it all.
Golden, Colorado, is a former gold rush town located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. If you’re looking for things to do in the area, you’ll want to start at the Colorado Railroad Museum. This museum has vintage trains and an 1800s-style railroad depot. You can also explore the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, which has exhibits on earth science. Then there’s Clear Creek White Water Park a kayaking course part of the Clear Creek Trail.
Lookout Mountain Park
Lookout Mountain Park is a 110-acre park and nature preserve located in Golden, Colorado. It was named for the famous lookout point of the native Ute Indian tribe. The park is open year-round, and there are numerous hiking trails. There is also a museum that features buffalo Bill Cody’s gravesite.
Lookout Mountain Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is located about 20 miles west of downtown Denver. You can enjoy views of the Rocky Mountains from the park.
Lookout Mountain is a popular place for visitors to explore. You can find a range of hiking, biking, and even horse ranches. In addition, there are several picnic areas, interpretive trails, and a museum.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a Denver landmark. This park is an 868-acre nature area and amphitheater. The park features 300-foot sandstone rock formations. In addition to the park and amphitheater, there is also a visitor center.
It is home to the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. It also has exhibits detailing the history of music in the state. Several well-known musicians have performed at Red Rocks. A few of the most famous include Harry Belafonte, Willie Nelson, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater are open year-round. Various activities are available, including hiking, horseback riding, and yoga. However, the park is closed early on concert days.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre have become famous outdoor theaters, especially for concerts. Some of the most popular shows have included The Grateful Dead, Bon Jovi, and Santana.
Colorado Railroad Museum
Colorado Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization that aims to preserve the rich history of the railroad industry in Colorado. The museum was founded in 1959 and featured several historic locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and historical records of early Colorado railroads.
One of the oldest steam locomotives in the museum’s collection is Denver Leadville & Gunnison No. 191. Baldwin Locomotive Works built it in 1890.
Another historic locomotive is Burlington Route No. 5629, a 4-8-4 “Northern” type O-5B class steam locomotive. This locomotive was retired in Lincoln, Nebraska shops, but it was brought to the Colorado Railroad Museum in 1963.
The Colorado Railroad Museum has more than 100 historic narrow gauge locomotives and equipment. You can see them on display or ride behind one of the trains. The museum is open six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday. There are also special events, programs, and information sharing with other historical groups.
Downtown Golden
Downtown Golden is a vibrant hub of shopping and restaurants that offer visitors and residents a place to experience the culture and heritage of the city. Aside from the abundance of shops, breweries, and restaurants, the historic downtown features the famous “Welcome to Golden” arch.
Visitors can visit the National Renewable Energy Lab, which focuses on renewable energy and research. The lab also has an education center that explains its work and offers free tours. In addition, there are a variety of open spaces, including Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Jeffco Open Space Trails, which are accessible to visitors.
Another major attraction in downtown Golden is the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, which features exhibits about William F. Cody. This museum is a great way to spend a few hours learning more about the area’s history.
Mines Museum of Earth Science
The Mines Museum of Earth Science is located in Golden, Colorado. It’s free to visit. They have several exhibits to explore. Their displays include minerals, gems, and fossils. In addition, they have some interactive exhibits to learn about.
A visit to the Mines Museum of Earth Science will have you coming back. You can explore their outdoor geology trail or take in the sights of their cave. Plus, there are a couple of guided tours to choose from. Try the themed scavenger hunts if you’re looking for something different. Guests can get a free mineral or rock as part of the prize.
Best Things to Do in Golden, Colorado
Places to visit in Golden, CO:
- Lookout Mountain Park
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
- Colorado Railroad Museum
- Downtown Golden
- Mines Museum of Earth Science