Colorado offers travelers an irresistible mix of trendy cityscapes and the best skiing in the U.S. With one of the most iconic national mountain ranges trailing through the state, it’s hard not to be awestruck by the Rockies’ snow-dusted peaks towering in the distance. It’s a postcard-worthy paradise in the winter, and in the warmer months, the surrounding mountain towns keep the adventure going. In Golden, it’s common to swap skis for water tubes and float down the river with a cold one in hand. Summer is all about soaking in the sunshine with a charming Wild West twist.
Unlike its widely known neighbor of Denver, which is only a 30-minute drive east, Golden feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle. With a population of around 20,200 people, compared to Denver’s nearly 730,000, it has a laid-back vibe that feels like stepping back to the days of the American frontier. Its longstanding buildings give the streets a historic charm, as the Rocky Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.
One of Golden’s main attractions is its brewery scene. The legendary Coors Brewery has been pouring pints in the city since the 1870s. However, there’s more to Golden than its legendary beer. Adventure seekers can take thrilling tubing trips down Clear Creek — a natural, fast-moving river delivering excitement all summer long. Whether you’re here for brews or the views, Golden could easily be considered one of the ultimate destinations to visit on a trip to Colorado.
Sip your way through the beer scene in Golden
While Denver is considered America’s craft beer capital, Golden boasts a similar reputation. With at least 10 microbreweries in town, you can make a day out of hopping around and tasting crisp lagers, fruity IPAs, and wheaty pints. There’s no better place to start than Golden City Brewery, known as the “Second Largest Brewery in Golden.” After you visit this iconic spot, take yourself on a tasting tour of Golden’s acclaimed craft breweries, including Barrels & Bottles, Cannonball Creek, and Mountain Toad. Each spot has its own unique atmosphere, from sun-soaked patios overlooking the Rockies to taprooms that feel like a local watering hole.
Of course, you have to pay a visit the nationwide favorite Coors Brewery, one of the largest commercial breweries in the world. Here, you can take a guided tour that dives into the beer brand’s history, all while enjoying tasty samples straight from the source. Whether you’re planning a self-guided brewery crawl or looking to unwind with a pint in hand, Golden’s beer scene is bound to deliver. In the summer months, Golden’s famous brew is best enjoyed outside, or better yet, on the water.
Float your stress away in Golden, Colorado
