The Best Itinerary For A Day in Golden, Colorado

Looking to spend a day in Golden, Colorado, but not sure how to make the ultimate itinerary? Don’t fret! 

Well known as a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Golden offers its visitors breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and endless activities to enjoy. 

From hiking trails and rock climbing routes to craft breweries and art galleries, there’s no shortage of things to do when visiting Golden. 

After spending a summer exploring some of the most unique towns in the state, I’ve partnered with Emily at Sea to Summit Alaska and we’ve created the perfect one-day itinerary for you to get the most out of Golden.

Let’s jump in!

A Day in Golden, Colorado

Now, with just one day to explore one of Colorado’s best tourist towns, you’ll want to be semi-precise with your timing.

Of course, if you simply want to get some brunch and stroll your way through town before hitting the Coors Factory, that’s an option.

But, if you’re hoping for an outdoor adventure perfectly balanced with some of the best eats in the city, then keep reading.

Morning in Golden

Eat Breakfast at The Golden Diner

I didn’t mean to bash on brunch… so, to start your day off right, head to The Golden Diner on 12th Street. Famous for its pancakes and breakfast burritos, this cozy diner offers a range of classic American dishes.

Kayak at Clear Creek Water Park

Afterward, make your way to Clear Creek Water Park, which is the perfect spot for tube and kayak rentals (and even paddleboards)! Whether you’re an experienced rafter or simply want to take in the views while floating down the river, there are plenty of different outings available.

The best time to visit the creek is in the morning when it’s less crowded and the brutal heat of the summer months hasn’t kicked in yet. 

By mid-afternoon, you’ll be playing adult “bumper rafts” with hundreds of other people trying to enjoy one of Golden’s finest features.

Afternoon in Golden

Coors Factory Brewery Tour

As for the afternoon, you’re in for a real treat! While everyone else is still wading in Clear Creek, head over to the Coors Factory for a brewery tour where you can escape the heat of the day in air conditioning with a nice, cold brew in hand.

For $10-20 a person (discounts available), you’ll receive a guided tour of the production facility and even get to sample some of their best brews. Plus, you get to keep the metal cups as souvenirs to commemorate your trip! 

Easily one of the most popular things to do in Golden, Colorado, even those who typically turn their noses to beer will enjoy this iconic tour.

Explore Downtown Golden

Now with a slight buzz in your system, it’s time to explore Golden’s vibrant art scene. Take a stroll down Washington Avenue and explore some of the funky galleries, vintage shops, and hip pubs that line the street.

Blue Moose Trading Company is the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs while nearby Duluth’s Trading Co. is the ultimate spot for your last-minute fly-fishing trip.

Snap Photos at Lookout Mountain

Before you head to dinner, take a drive up to Lookout Mountain and admire the breathtaking views of the city below. This is one of Golden’s most popular attractions and it always makes for an amazing photo-op. 

Wanderful Tip: You may think you should save this outing for sunset, but this is when it will be at its busiest! Either get up at the crack of dawn to watch the sunrise or opt to visit mid-day when you’ll have the mountaintop practically to yourself.

Evening in Golden

Eat Dinner at The Golden Mill

For dinner, you can’t go wrong with The Golden Mill over on Ford Street. This classic Colorado eatery offers a range of locally-sourced dishes with a modern twist. 

Enjoy their famous house-made tacos or their succulent beef brisket that’s been smoked for 14 hours among other farm-to-table favorites while taking in the rustic ambiance of this historic landmark.

Plus, offering gorgeous views of the city and the nearby Flatirons (what the locals have named the mountains surrounding the Golden area), this well-equipped bar also offers two self-pour tap walls where you can pour yourself any beer you want to enjoy your meal with. Pretty cool, right?

Enjoy a Cocktail at atōst

All that’s left to do is to top your night off with the perfect, locally-made cocktail at atōst! A personal favorite in the city of Golden, this unsuspecting high-end cocktail bar is found in a warehouse on the edge of town. 

Less than a 15-minute ride away, you’ll be reminiscing on your favorite activities from spending a day in Golden, Colorado in style!

How to Get to Golden, Colorado

When it comes to getting to Golden, you have several options. From local buses to rideshare apps and nearby international airports, these are the best ways to get to Golden.

Flying into Denver

Now, for most of us, unless you’re coming from a bordering state such as Utah or New Mexico, you’re likely going to need a flight to get there. 

Fortunately for travelers, Denver International Airport happens to be one of the biggest hubs in North America for international travel, offering numerous routes from major airlines including JetBlue, Delta, American, and so many others.

Travel by Bus

Once you arrive, you’ll need to find your way to Golden. Luckily, there are plenty of options and the journey is very simple and relatively unintimidating. 

If you’re on a budget, then the bus will be the best option. Line 16 travels from Colfax Ave & Broadway directly to the popular Washington Ave in downtown Golden in just over an hour for typically around $3-6 per person.

Travel by Train

The second cheapest option is the train which departs directly from Union Station in downtown Denver and brings you to Golden. 

However, both of these options would require you to get into Denver first, so if you aren’t comfortable with figuring out multiple modes of transportation, then your best bet is to book an Uber or Lyft.

Travel by Rideshare

These rideshare services are in an abundance at the Denver Airport, and you’ll be able to choose your ride as soon as you land via their respective apps. 

Plus, you can have the driver drop you off right at your accommodation, saving you the hassle of finding your way on foot to your hotel with all of your belongings should you simply arrive at the local bus station in Golden.

If you’re only spending a day in Golden, Colorado, then it is suggested to budget a little bit of extra money to save all the time you can. 

Sure, the rideshare services will be more expensive, but they’ll also remove the stress of navigating the public transportation system and save you tons of time on travel.

When it’s time for the return trip from Golden to Denver, the options are the same as getting there. It’s worth noting that the bus runs more frequently during rush hour and the train is usually a bit faster if you’re trying to stay on a budget.

Either way, you’ll be able to get back to Denver with ease after your fun-filled day in Golden!

When to Visit Golden, Colorado

The best time to visit Golden, Colorado is on either side of the summer months from late spring (April through May) to early fall (September through early November). 

The temperatures in the area remain mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor breweries, food trucks, window shopping, and more.

Plus, during this time, there are plenty of events happening throughout the city including the Golden Fine Arts Festival and endless concerts and comedians at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater that will make your stay even more enjoyable.

While Golden does offer some winter activities as well, such as skiing at nearby ski resorts, it’s best to avoid visiting during late fall and early winter due to short daylight hours and icy roads. 

Some businesses also close in the winter, so if you want to see Golden in full swing (like it is during its participation in the annual Buffalo Bill Days), then between the spring, summer, and fall is the best time to visit.

That being said, if you plan on taking a trip to Golden during any other time of the year, be sure to pack accordingly. 

Temperatures can dip into the single digits at night, and with the mountains so near, it’s always best to be prepared for whatever type of weather might come your way.

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Golden, you can rest assured that you’ll find plenty of great things to do while you’re there like exploring all the local attractions to shopping in unique boutiques.

What is Special About Golden, Colorado

Golden, Colorado is a unique destination with a history that comes alive in its charming downtown streets, Victorian buildings, and proud culture.

It’s a town where the Old West and the modern world intersect, making it a vibrant and culturally rich place to visit.

Golden also boasts stunning natural beauty, nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, making it an ideal base for outdoor adventurers who want to go hiking, fly fishing, white water rafting, or even rock climbing!

Visitors can hike in nearby Clear Creek Canyon, where they will be rewarded with views of rushing mountain streams, towering cliffs, and wildlife such as bighorn sheep and golden eagles. 

For those interested in history, there’s plenty to explore, including the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, the Colorado Railroad Museum, and the Golden History Museum.

On top of that, Golden’s microbrewery scene is second to none, offering visitors a chance to taste some of Colorado’s finest craft beers. 

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, Golden’s warm and welcoming locals are always eager to provide visitors with great recommendations and share their love for this special town.

Where to Stay in Golden, Colorado

If you’re only going to be spending a day in Golden, Colorado, it’s best to book an accommodation with a central location close to all of the city’s best attractions.

Fortunately, Golden has some really beautiful hotels to choose from, with some of the most popular picks below!

Table Mountain Inn

Located right in the heart of downtown Golden, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Clear Creek Canyon and the nearby Rocky Mountains.

Guests will also enjoy amenities such as an on-site restaurant (Table Mountain Grill & Cantina) that serves delicious local cuisine, an outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna area, as well as modern rooms equipped with free Wifi.

With its convenient location close to all of Golden’s top attractions and its excellent service from friendly staff members, Table Mountain Inn is a top choice when visiting Golden for a day.

The Silk Pincushion

One of the best hidden gems in Golden, Colorado, The Silk Pincushion is a charming bed and breakfast that offers guests a warm and inviting atmosphere.

This historic home dates back to the 1870s and has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur, complete with elegant Victorian decor and antique furnishings.

The Silk Pincushion boasts uniquely decorated guest rooms, each with its own private bathroom.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring premium bedding and a delicious homemade breakfast each morning, featuring fresh ingredients and unique twists on classic breakfast dishes.

Located in a quiet neighborhood just less than a 10-minute walk from downtown Golden, the Silk Pincushion offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax, whether you’re in town for a romantic getaway or a weekend of outdoor adventure.

The Eddy Taproom & Hotel

If you’re hoping for luxury during your day in Golden, Colorado, then The Eddy Taproom & Hotel should be on your radar.

Located in the heart of downtown Golden, this trendy and stylish hotel boasts a contemporary yet cozy vibe that perfectly captures the essence of this charming town.

Guests will feel right at home in the hotel’s well-appointed rooms, which are beautifully designed with modern furnishings and luxurious bedding. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a comfortable seating area.

But what sets The Eddy Taproom & Hotel apart from other hotels in the area is its fantastic on-site restaurant and bar, The Eddy Taproom. Here, guests can indulge in a delicious menu of locally sourced beer and flavorful cuisine. 

After a day of exploring Golden’s best attractions, guests can unwind on the hotel’s cozy outdoor terrace or even work up a sweat in the fitness center.

Overall, The Eddy Taproom & Hotel is a true gem in Golden’s hospitality industry, and an excellent choice for travelers looking for a top-notch, one-of-a-kind experience.

Is Golden, Colorado Safe

When it comes to staying safe in different areas across the country, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, practice basic safety precautions, and familiarize yourself with the local laws. 

Golden is a particularly safe place in Colorado to visit as crime rates are generally low and the people are friendly.

As for public transportation, all of the buses and trains that you can take into Golden from Denver are heavily monitored by security, so there is always an extra set of eyes on your safety on these modes of public transport.

Golden overall has lower crime rates in terms of violent crime and property crime when compared to the rest of the U.S., so while you spend a day in Golden, Colorado your chances of falling victim to a local crime are extremely low.

To ensure you’re following proper safety precautions as you would on any trip whether it be to Golden, Banff National Park, Alaska, or anywhere in between, keep some safety tips in mind when you spend a day in Golden.

Some of these travel safety tips include researching the area for safety, carrying a fully charged cell phone for emergency calls, avoiding shortcuts especially at night, taking advantage of Uber or Lyft, and having a buddy with you as you travel.

Following these basic safety precautions will help to ensure your quick trip to Golden, Colorado (along with most places in the world) is a pleasant one!

Final thoughts: A Day in Golden Colorado

Golden is a great destination for anyone looking to spend a day in an exciting and vibrant Colorado city. Its laid-back vibes balance well with the active outdoor culture, making it an ideal place to explore for all types of travelers. 

Best of all, there are plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly stays to luxurious resorts, so you’ll be able to find something that best fits your needs.

Plus, with plenty of transportation options from Denver Airport including buses and rideshares, it’s easy to get around town without breaking your budget. 

So, whether you’re looking for some outdoor fun or want to explore the culture and history of a historic mountain town, spending a day in Golden, Colorado is the perfect way to do it!

Ready to visit Colorado? Check out these resources below!

Author Bio: The storyteller behind Sea to Summit Alaska and Emily Embarks, Emily Concannon is a full-time traveler and travel blogger who is on a mission to discover the world’s most unique destinations.

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