I'm a Colorado local. If I had one day to show you my state, I'd skip Denver and take you to a city just west of it.
As a Colorado local, I love bringing first-time visitors to Golden, my favorite city that's a short drive from Denver. Here's what to do there.
For over a decade, the author has made Colorado their home. When they have the opportunity to showcase the state to newcomers, they always recommend visiting Golden rather than Denver. The city is just 15 miles west of downtown Denver and offers a variety of attractions in a compact area. Golden boasts beautiful mountain views, hiking trails, a creek running through town, a historic downtown, and plenty of dining options.
The author suggests starting the day with coffee at Sogo Beans and Boards, a family-owned coffee and skate shop. They recommend renting an e-bike to explore North Table Mountain Park for a leisurely morning hike or challenging oneself with a climb up North Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mesas. In warmer weather, the author suggests tubing on Clear Creek or visiting Golden Gate Canyon State Park for aspen groves and snowshoeing in winter.
The Golden Mill serves as a go-to lunch spot, featuring a variety of food offerings and a rooftop patio with mountain views. The downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls along Washington Avenue, lined with locally owned boutiques, galleries, and Western outfitters, and a seasonal Saturday farmers market. The city also has kayaking opportunities at Clear Creek Whitewater Park and beer tours at the Coors Brewery.
The author encourages taking some time to wander downtown and soak in the picturesque surroundings. Ultimately, they believe Golden provides a condensed representation of Colorado's beauty, outdoor activities, and local character, making it an ideal destination for first-time visitors.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
