Striking it Rich in Golden

You know how you hear of a movie, drive past a restaurant or pass through a town and think “I should really give that movie/restaurant/town a try”? That’s the way I was about Golden, Colorado. Right here in my own state, a mere 30 minute drive away, I, a Colorado native, had never done more than pass through Golden. Shameful. During those fleeting moments though, I caught a glimpse of the “Welcome to Golden” sign that arches over the main drag through town, and could see there were lots of cute shops, quaint architecture and a river that ran through it. Recently, I finally stopped the car, spent some time, and discovered that Golden is a real gem, whether for an extended stay, a quick getaway or just a day trip.

The Golden History Center, Clear Creek History Park and the Astor House Museum trio are a great way to start a visit. The town’s long and rich history, and anchors of Coors Brewing and the Colorado School of Mines all helped shape Golden into the charming, quirky, hip place it is today. Add to the history lesson by strolling up and down historic streets seeing ridiculously pretty gingerbread homes, wraparound porches and carriage houses.

Quench the thirst you’ve built up at Mountain Toad Brewing or Golden City Brewery. Grab a seat wherever you can or just claim a place to stand to enjoy people-watching while sipping. After a microbrew, stroll along Clear Creek which runs through town with its crystal shimmering waters. Golden has done a great job of making the most of its waterfront with paths, public art, and kid-friendly play areas. Adventurous types can take advantage of sprawling cycling paths (cyclists swarm the town!) and hiking trails that start in town and go right up nearby Table Mesa and mountains.

Answer that growling stomach with an extensive lunch buffet at Sherpa House Restaurant & Culture Center or save the visit for dinnertime. This family-run, authentically-designed place is a trip (without really having to take one to Tibet).

Other restaurant options abound including casual places like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza, The Buffalo Rose Bar and Grill (the oldest tavern in Colorado), and the more upscale Grappa Mediterranean Bistro and Cafe. After dinner, a must-do, and perhaps the biggest surprise in Golden, is a visit to Golden Moon Speakeasy. Read what delights await in our SIP blog about the place.

A full day of exploring and fun makes settling into a nice hotel room all the more satisfying. The Table Mountain Inn, with earthen-colored adobe and blue iron accents, stands out among its more old-west neighbors right there on Washington Street, the main street through town. Inside, there’s classic southwestern architecture and touches, beautiful tile accents and stunning artwork. The room’s decorator items give a feeling of home instead of just a temporary stop for the night. Our suite was a special treat with a spacious livingroom, fireplace, and balcony. The bedroom had its own balcony and TV with a tiled wetbar and large bathroom; the extra-wide jet tub/shower was awesome.

We brunched at the hotel’s Table Mountain Inn & Cantina, where our server brought a basket with warm, delicious cinnamon rolls the way other restaurants bring a basket of bread – a nice touch. Creative twists on the usual breakfast menu made it really hard to choose. We settled on the Huevos Rancheros and Mesa Verde Benedict. Both were delicious and filling.

Reluctantly, we left Golden, wishing we had more time there (we hadn’t even done the requisite Coors Brewery Tour or visit to Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave). But that’s the beauty of the place. Golden is such a short drive away, we can get there easily for another getaway, for the day or even just for one of their special events. Golden would be a great place to have out-of-town visitors stay over the holidays or year-round, if they want a mountain experience, a taste of Colorado history but with easy access to Denver.

Speaking of the holidays, we hear that’s when Golden really shines during the season-long Olde Golden Christmas. They love the holidays there. Really love them! Check out their schedule for all of the details.

Don’t let the experience of Golden, Colorado be one of those “someday” things in your life. It’s too close, too fun and too interesting to not experience as soon as possible.