The Wild West is still alive in Golden, Colorado's territorial capital until 1867. Upon arriving in Golden, you are welcomed with an old-fashioned wooden arch over Washington Street reading: "Howdy Folks! Welcome to Golden!" Today, it's home to six museums; Coors Brewery, one of the largest brewing facilities in the world; and a downtown filled with shops and restaurants.

The famed Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is just up the road. Golden is also home to unique museums and cultural attractions.

If you're looking for outdoor adventure, Golden is also home to miles of hiking trails for all levels, some stellar rock climbing and Clear Creek, which runs through the center of town and offers whitewater rafting and excellent fishing. With its secluded, small-town feel and plenty to see and do, Golden is a great day trip option from Denver.

See the neighborhood map below to start exploring.

Explore Golden

Museums

Spend the day exploring Golden's fantastic museums, including the Colorado Railroad Museum, the Golden History Museum, the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum or the American Mountaineering Museum. Or take a short jaunt up Lookout Mountain to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave and snap a stunning panorama of the Front Range.

Craft Beer

Grab a brew and some food truck grub at one of Golden's six craft breweries - including Golden City Brewery, Mountain Toad Brewing, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co., New Terrain Brewing Co., Bottles and Barrels Brewery and the gluten-free brewery Holidaily.

Coors Brewery

Take a self-guided audio tour (and sip some generous samples) at the brewery, which churns out more than 13 million barrels of beer a year!

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

This outdoor music venue is on everyone's bucket list! Make the short drive from downtown Denver or take a shuttle to catch an unforgettable concert under the stars. And during the day, Red Rocks is a free Denver park with hiking trails amidst the ancient giant boulders. During the summer months, the venue also hosts non-musical events ranging from yoga and fitness classes to movies shown on the giant outdoor screen at dusk.

Lariat Loop

Drive the national scenic byway, with an authentic Western experience, located between Golden, Morrison and Evergreen.

Foothills Art Center

Visit this museum housed in an 1876 Gothic-style church and an 1860 Queen Anne-style mansion, and see exhibits of Colorado artists as well as traveling shows.

Miners Alley Playhouse

Enjoy community theater at this creative space which has been a local favorite since 1989.

Aerial view of Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater

Locals Know

Golden is home to the Colorado School of Mines, one of the nation's top universities for engineering. Incoming freshmen whitewash the school's signature letter "M" on Mt. Zion at the beginning of each school year.

Along the 1.5-mile, gravel Triceratops Trail are several stops highlighting clay mining, as well as invertebrates tracks and traces of dinosaurs, birds, mammals and insects. Plus, there are several sandstone walls full of plant impressions from the tree-lined, delta-like environment.

Explore Golden by bike! Check out a bike at Golden's Bike Library - located at the Golden Visitors & Information Center (1010 Washington Ave), Thursday - Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m, May - October.

Golden may be known for brewing beer, but don't miss out on the craft distilleries throughout the city!

Treat your taste buds at any one of Golden's delicious eateries! You'll find every cuisine under the sun - from Indian, Italian, American and, of course, local favorites like burritos.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Colorado Environmental Film Festival

Each February, world-class environmental shorts and films are showcased with representatives from local and national organizations.

Farmers' Markets

This weekly market features fresh produce and bakery items.

Buffalo Bill Days

In July, this old-time Western festival includes a parade, stagecoach rides and pancake breakfast.

Chili Cook-Off & Beer Tasting

Every October, more than 50 chili recipes are in competition for the winning-prize, and upwards of 90 beers are available to wash them down.

Candlelight Walk

Experience holiday cheer during this traditional walk down Main Street, candle in hand and singing carols. As the procession continues, holiday lights are illuminated throughout the town. After the walk, enjoy free and festive activities - from roasted chestnuts at the Golden History Park to hot cider with Santa at the Visitors Center.

Golden Map

Start your neighborhood adventure at this suggested spot! This is a centrally located position that you can input into your GPS to get started exploring.