Top 12 Things to Do in Golden Colorado

Golden, Colorado sits just 20-25 minutes west of Denver, nestled up against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The town was established in 1859 during the Gold Rush. It’s maintained its historic character while also evolving its cultural, recreational, and educational activities. Here are 12 of the top things to do when visiting the historic mining town of Golden, Colorado.

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Our Top 12 Things to Do in Golden, Colorado

• Tube or Kayak on Clear Creek
• Hike in Golden Gate Canyon State Park
• Fish on Clear Creek
• Coors Brewery Tour
• Explore the Clear Creek and Peak to Plains Trails
• Golden History Museum
• Scenic Drive on the Lariat Loop
• Lookout Mountain, Buffalo Bill, and Buffalo
• Visit Golden’s Indoor and Outdoor Art Displays
• Enjoy the Museum of Earth Science
• Colorado Railroad Museum
• Explore Downtown Golden

How to Get from Denver to Golden

Getting to Golden from Denver is quite straightforward and quick, making it an ideal day trip or even a half-day excursion.

• By Car: Golden is a 20-25 minute drive west of Denver, depending on traffic.
• By Public Transport: the Light Rail’s W Line departs from Denver Union Station and takes about 30 minutes to reach the Federal Center. From there, take the 17 bus to the 10th & Washington stop in Golden.

Once in Golden, most attractions are easily accessible on foot or by bike. Colorado School of Mines’ Ore Cart Free Transit Service runs most Mondays-Saturdays, and is free to all.

Is Golden Colorado Worth Visiting?

Yes, Golden, Colorado is definitely worth visiting! Golden offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, Western mining history, and modern amenities. There’s plenty to explore, ranging from the thrill of tubing and kayaking on Clear Creek to the rich history displayed at the Buffalo Bill Museum and the Golden History Museum. The hiking and biking in and around Golden are excellent, whether you choose to stay near town or head up to Golden Gate Canyon State Park. The town is also known for its numerous art displays and festivals. For beer enthusiasts, the Coors Brewery tour is a highlight. Golden’s proximity to Denver makes it an easy and worthwhile day trip, but there’s enough to do and see that you might want to stay longer.

1. Tube or Kayak on Clear Creek

Golden is one of the best places in Colorado to visit in summer. In addition to the many other activities, enjoying time on Clear Creek is a big part of this! Whether you choose to tube or kayak, Clear Creek offers a refreshing escape from the heat. The Clear Creek Whitewater Kayaking Park is a 1/4 mile stretch of Clear Creek, well setup for kayaking and canoeing. Before heading out on a kayak, canoe, or tube, be sure to read the Visit Golden site for the latest Clear Creek status and for guidelines on safely experiencing these activities. This is NOT a lazy river, it is a naturally flowing river white whitewater features. Please read Visit Golden’s guidelines and check current flag status before determining for yourself if this activity is right for you. Here are our recommended gear rental locations in town:

• Adventure West offers tube rentals in town. Those tubing need to walk (or shuttle) 2.5 miles upstream. They offer a tube rental + shuttle package that allows you to avoid this walk. They also offer e-bike rentals and tours.
• Golden River Sports offers kayak, SUP, and tube rental, as well as fly fishing guides and equipment.

2. Hike in Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Just west of the downtown area of Golden, explore over 35 miles of hiking trails at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Most hikers will want to drive into the park with a car or a private tour. There are other options closer to town for those without a car.

The park offers a diverse range of trails for all skill levels, each boasting spectacular views of the Rockies. Don’t miss the Panorama Point Scenic Overlook, where you can see over 100 miles of the Continental Divide. In winter, many of the hikes in the park can be navigated on snowshoes or with microspikes. Check trail conditions before heading out to be sure you’re prepared with the right clothing and equipment. Lastly, there is camping in the park for those looking to extend their time in Golden to a week or more.

3. Fish on Clear Creek

Anglers will enjoy a morning or day of fishing on Clear Creek. Bring equipment or rent it in town and head for the Golden Mile of Clear Creek. Lessons / tours are also available along Clear Creek, both in Golden and out towards Idaho Springs.

• Golden River Sports offers kayak, SUP, and tube rental, as well as fly fishing guides and equipment.
• Golden Fly Shop offers fly fishing gear, rentals, and lessons.

4. Coors Brewery Tour

Learn about the history of brewing at the Coors Brewery, the largest single-site brewery in the world. The Coors tour showcases the malting, brewing, and packaging processes, and ends with an option to sample some fresh brews. These tours sell out well in advance, so this is one that needs to be booked early.

Some more information on the Coors Brewery Tour:

• Reservations open up 25 days in advance.
• Standard brewery tour is $20, and comes with an option to sample 3 beers for those 21 and older.
• Sampling only (no tour) is $10. Those 21 and older can sample 3 beers, and those under 21 have options for non-alcoholic beverages.
• Guided sampling (no tour) is $30, and is only available to those 21 and older.

5. Explore the Clear Creek and Peak to Plains Trails

For a more laid-back adventure, walk or bike along the Clear Creek Trail. This scenic route offers beautiful views of the creek and hillsides. Extend your journey on the Peak to Plains Trail, a path that leaves town and cuts through Clear Creek Canyon.

Our bike rental recommendations in Golden include:

• Adventure West offers e-bike rentals and tours.
• Golden Bike Shop offers demo bikes for rent.

6. Golden History Museum

Learn more about Golden’s history and gold mining past at the Golden History Museum and Park, open Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.The museum itself features exhibits on the history of Golden and its cultural evolution over the years. Head over the bridge to the south side of Clear Creek to walk around the original 1800’s buildings from the Pearce Ranch.

7. Scenic Drive on the Lariat Loop

Take a scenic drive on the Lariat Loop, which winds its way through Golden, Evergreen, and Morrison, where you’ll find Red Rocks Park. This 40-mile route winds through the mountains, offering stunning views of the Denver area, red rock formations, and lush forests. Don’t miss doing this drive in the fall when the aspen leaves turn a brilliant gold. We’d argue this is one of the most scenic places to see fall foliage in Colorado.

8. Lookout Mountain, Buffalo Bill, and Buffalo

Drive or bike up to Lookout Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Golden and the surrounding plains. The winding road to the summit is a delight for cyclists and motorists alike. Keep in mind that this bike ride is for experienced bikers who are acclimated to this altitude.

At the top, the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave pays homage to one of the most colorful figures of the American West. Learn about his life as a pony express rider, army scout, and showman, and enjoy the artifacts and exhibits.

From the top of Lookout Mountain, head over towards I-70 exit 254 to see the buffalo herd. They roam freely in a large fenced area. Be sure to follow signs and keep out of the fenced area.

9. Visit Golden’s Indoor and Outdoor Art Displays

Dive into the local art scene by visiting the Foothills Art Center at the Astor House, where you can enjoy indoor exhibits as well as art classes for all. Don’t forget to also explore the outdoor art displays throughout Golden, whether on Washington Street, along the Clear Creek Trail, or beyond.

10. Enjoy the Museum of Earth Science

Don’t miss a visit to the free Museum of Earth Science at the Colorado School of Mines. It is known for having the largest public collection of minerals from Colorado. Not only that, it has one of the Goodwill Moon Rocks collected during the Apollo 17 mission.

11. Colorado Railroad Museum

The Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden is set on 15 acres and features over 100 engines and train cars. These range from narrow and standard gauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, cabooses, and G-scale model railroads. Explore a replica of an 1880s-style train depot, a working roundhouse, and various railroad artifacts. They offer train rides Thursdays-Sundays, and host special events like Day Out With Thomas and the Polar Express Train Ride.

12. Explore Downtown Golden

Last but not least, bee sure to visit downtown Golden, to explore the many shops, galleries, cafés, and restaurants. Take a Wild West Walking Tour to get into the old west mining town spirit.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending one of Golden’s vibrant festivals. Not to miss is the famous Buffalo Bill Days, celebrating the town’s frontier spirit with a large parade, live music, and a car show. Also, enjoy the Golden Fine Arts Festival, a summer highlight featuring art from across the country, and the UllrGrass Music Festival, which brightens the winter with bluegrass music and craft beer.

Golden, Colorado, has activities from almost every type of traveler. Outdoor activities are always a highlight in Golden, but don’t overlook the many cultural activities to add to a visit!

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