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Golden, Colorado
"Birthplace of the 2 hour Vacation"
Welcome to Golden, Colorado If drinking a Coors taps the Rockies, Golden, Colorado is the keg (and not in a sense that it is flanked by frat boys). In 1873, Adolph Coors thought it'd be a swell idea to open a brewery at the heart of the foothills. Now his little brewing company is an international conglomerate with fifteen brands and a stately (though slightly ominous-looking) edifice still serving as the headquarters in Golden. It is also one of the main attractions for tourists and beer-ophiles in the region. Take the 90-minute Coors Brewery tour and then head to Washington Avenue, Golden's historic district, for some shopping and good eats.
Golden can be found 15 miles west of Denver on U.S. Highway 6, I-70 and C-470. The town of 17,000 people, though known for its beer more so than anything, has a variety of other activities to entertain the teetotaler. If you're looking for outdoor activities, head to nearby Golden Gate Canyon State Park. In only two hours you can go hiking, horseback riding, or enjoy a picnic. For the state's most spectacular view, check out Panorama Point. There's also Clear Creek Whitewater Park, which provides an opportunity to canoe and kayak down an 800-foot-long course. Across the street, take the kids to Lion's Park. Heritage Square, styled in the mode of the Victorian West, has shops, restaurants, and enough charm to fill one of those giant Coors brewing cauldrens. If that's not your scene, check out Dinosaur Ridge for a tour of where the dinos used to roam, Buffalo Bills grave site or the Foothills Art Center, located in a 19th century cathedral.
Some of Golden's visitors are also making a short drive to Red Rocks Amphitheater, the wildly popular outdoor concert venue in Morrison, CO. Everyone and their mom seems to have played there: The Eagles, Dave Mathews Band, R.E.M., Willie Nelson, Tori Amos—the list could fill one of those giant Coors brewing colanders. Those who relocate to Golden are often there to attend the prestigious School of Mines.
A handful of open parks and 125 miles of trail only add to Golden's eclectic, must-see list. Hike, backpack, camp, and fish in the summer. In the winter, take in the majestic views while cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
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