Location: Golden
Top Things to do in Golden
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What to do and see in Golden, Colorado (CO): The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
Golden is the Home Rule Municipality that is the county seat of Jefferson County, Colorado, United States. Golden lies along Clear Creek at the base of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Founded during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush on June 16, 1859, the mining camp was originally named Golden City in honor of Thomas L. Golden. Golden City served as the capital of the provisional Territory of Jefferson from 1860 to 1861, and capital of the official Territory of Colorado from 1862 to 1867. In 1867, the territorial capital was moved about 12 miles (19 km) east to Denver City. The United States Census Bureau estimates that the city population was 18,867 in 2010.
Restaurants in Golden
1. Colorado Haunted History Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 43 reviews
Colorado Haunted History Tours presents a two hour haunted history walking tour of downtown Golden, Colorado. Come see this town, which is home to Coors Brewery and the School of Mines, in a whole new light. Hear tales of murder, mayhem, and madness, and learn why this town has a wild west history comparable to Tombstone. Stories include the hanging of an innocent man, the nefarious activities that occurred on Golden's Castle Rock, Golden's 'Night of Terror,' and the ghosts that live on. Take a journey back in time. We also present a "Ghosts and Legends Tour" of Morrison, Colorado. Located in the shadow of Red Rocks Park, hear the tales of the past residents, their ghosts, and take an opportunity to capture their spirits. Stories include the 'Hatchet Lady', the hanging tree, and more!
2. Apex Ex
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By samuelyrubyi - Alice, United States
We had an amazing time with Aaron yesterday. He was very patient with us unfit people. Very knowledgeable and was enthusiastically motivating us! We had such a blast! The hike was not too bad with a couple of stops to recoup our breathe(again for us unfit people) we were just thinking it was only going to be 1 climb, it was actually as many as we could do within the time frame to leave, we each did 3 climbs, we were 4 in the group. It was challenging but very doable and we are actually very greatfull for the experience we are now considering coming to Colorado more often to rock climb and we will definitely be taking our tours with Apex Ex from here on out. Thank you for sharing y’all passion of rock climbing, we are now growing our passion for it too.
3. Golden Mountain Guides
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 81 reviews
Fuel your desire for the outdoors with a once in a lifetime adventure with Golden Mountain Guides. Climb frozen crystalline water, dangle 1,000 feet off the ground, or learn new skills in a safe and scenic environment. Whether you're just learning or a seasoned climber looking for the next adventure, Golden Mountain Guides has the instruction to teach you the Fundamental Elements of Climbing.
4. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 289 reviews
This area is particularly good for snowshoers.
Reviewed By MrsButterfield - Denver, United States
If you're going to go here, go very early in the morning, especially on the weekend! It costs $9 for a day pass that you need to pick up upon entry into the park. They have plenty of hikes for all ski levels as well as ponds to go fishing. Make sure you bring a water bottle for hot days and always bring a rain jacket.
5. Lookout Mountain
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 874 reviews
Scenic mountain near Denver and home of the Buffalo Bill Cody gravesite and museum.
Reviewed By Peter_A_Morrell - Unionville, Canada
What a great idea to take a drive up the mountain to Lookout Mountain Park. During a trip to Golden, Colorado earlier this year I had a rare afternoon off and decided to check it out. Besides the amazing views, you'll find Buffalo Bills' Grave and Museum, the Pashaka Gift Shop, trails and yes the views. The 'Lookout' itself has a large area where you can see Denver and Golden and on a clear day, you can see miles and miles out to the surrounding areas and mountains. Be careful driving up the mountain and as I saw a couple of wrecks and abandoned cars along the way. The morning was overcast so many parts of the mountain round were still covered in ice, from the sides of the mountain that didn't get any sun in the morning. It was winter and the weather can change at any time like any other snow-covered mountain. Take your time driving the road. There is a couple of pull-offs on the road up to Lookout Mountain if you have to stop. As you get closer to the parking area, there are signs to clearly identify where you are and where to park. The same parking lot for the 'Lookout' is the same parking lot for Buffalo Bill's Grave, the Museum, the gift shop and the Lookout area. In the winter most of the trails are covered in snow and not accessible, I did see a few people coming from the trails. You will also see several TV and radio towers nearby. Luckily it was a clear day, and sunny when I arrived. I checked out all the sites and walked the perimeter of the lookout and spent a good amount of time there looking at the surrounding area. It is serene and picturesque so bring a good camera, if you have one. With everything to do up there even on a wintery day, you could spend a few hours up there. The Lookout Mountain is a great way to spend an afternoon. If you're ever in Golden put this on your list of things to do, you will not be disappointed.
6. Foothills Art Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
Located in historic downtown Golden, Foothills Art Center leads and inspires the community through art, education, and cultural excellence with engaging exhibitions and dynamic arts programming for learners of all ages. Foothills Art Center was founded in 1968 and is an official member of the United States National Registry of Historic Buildings. The center is housed in an 1872 Gothic style church, an 1892 Queen Anne style manse and a Victorian-era mansion built in 1899 – all surrounded by a sculpture garden at 809 15th Street in downtown Golden, Colorado.
7. Golden History Museum & Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Pioneer life in the hills and canyons near Golden was harsh, difficult, and not for the faint of heart. Most who survived in the beautiful, if inhospitable region, succeeded as farmers and ranchers. Relive the experience by exploring the blacksmith shop, log cabins, hay barn and root cellar. Visit with our heirloom-breed chickens and discover a buzzing beehive. On select days, interact with costumed interpreters who enliven the landscape with cooking and blacksmithing demonstrations. Step inside the one-room Guy Hill Schoolhouse and take a seat in a student’s desk, but don’t wisecrack to the school mistress! After your History Park visit, remember to check out the free (for all of 2019) Golden History Museum directly across Clear Creek.
8. Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 288 reviews
Reviewed By lindabB2983WR - Golden, United States
It is well displayed and with good notations about the collection. Entry is free. Golden is a charming, interesting town, with an art center, a history museum, and Coors Brewery, plus nice restaurants.
9. Mother Cabrini Shrine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 195 reviews
Reviewed By mizzrosie31 - Colorado Springs, United States
A beautiful experience, soul touching. me and my husband decided last minute to travel here, we climed the 300+ steps to the shrine and each step was a learning and spiritual experience, we walked through the rosary garden, saying each prayer and attended mass. everything was beautiful and graceful.
