Author: Joy Meadows

Fall is the Ideal Time to Visit the World’s Biggest Little Beer Town

Written by Joy Meadows on September 5, 2017. Posted in Beer, Fall Activities.

Fall is the Ideal Time to Visit the World’s Biggest Little Beer Town, Golden, Colorado

Did you know that Golden, Colorado, located 12 miles west of Denver, brews more beer than any other city on the planet? This is largely due to the fact that hometown favorite Coors Brewery is the world’s largest single-site brewery. But Golden also has an assortment of award-winning craft breweries producing wonderful ales, wheat beers, pilsners and stouts.

On any windy day, the smell of hops will permeate the air in Golden, giving it a distinct, but mild and pleasant, smell that is sure to delight any beer lover. And beer lovers flock to Golden year round. They may come for the beer, but they stay for the town's charming atmosphere and natural beauty. Autumn is the best time to visit. After all, what's better than a delicious IPA after a crisp fall hike through gorgeous Golden?

Golden is located in an area of spectacular natural beauty. To the east, are two mesas — high flat-topped plateaus surrounded by cliffs – and to the west Golden is the spot where the Great Plains hit the Rocky Mountains. Most notable of the Front Range peaks which tower over Golden is Lookout Mountain that boasts a road filled with hairpin turns and climbs an unbelievable 1,200 feet in just four miles. Down below, Clear Creek cuts through rock to create a beautiful canyon before spilling out into and rushing through downtown Golden.

Here are six classic Golden hiking or bike trails paired with a perfect pub stop for a beer afterwards. There you can soak in the autumn colors and savor the taste of fall.

SOUTH TABLE MOUNTAIN

South Table Mountain and its twin North Table Mountain are landmark mesas rising above Golden. South Table Mountain is renowned for Castle Rock, Golden’s signature rock outcropping that offers commanding views of Golden and the Front Range. It was once home to a dance hall that was accessed via funicular, there are ruins visible today. You can access South Table Mountain several ways, but we suggest parking at the base of Golden Summit Trail and heading up the .6 mile trail. It’s very steep and you’ll gain 1,500 feet in elevation before you reach the top. Enjoy the view and hurry back down for a craft beer at New Terrain.

Beer Stop: New Terrain Brewing Co. is Golden’s newest craft brewery. It’s located on the eastern edge of North Table Mountain with a view down into Clear Creek Valley. Almost all the walls roll up, there's an outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, fireplace, food trucks, and eight beers on tap, with more coming. The beer is first rate, but it's the views and architecture that make it worth a journey. It's like a ski lodge dumped into the Front Range with buttes in every direction. Plan to spend the afternoon.

MATTHEWS/WINTERS PARK TRAILS

Located just south of Golden on State Highway 93, this Jefferson County open space park has nine miles of trails. A particularly beautiful stretch is the 2.8 mile Red Rocks Trail, which climbs up some mild switchbacks, offering spectacular views of towering red rock formations as you approach Red Rocks Amphitheater. Another, more strenuous hike is the Dakota Ridge Trail, which climbs up and down along the twisting Dakota Hogback, an unusual geologic formation. The first dinosaur bones ever discovered were found along this hogback. Nearby on Dinosaur Ridge, you can see million-year-old dinosaur bones and dinosaur tracks, still visible in the rocks.

Beer Stop: Located across the street from Coors, the Barrels & Bottles Brewery is one of the most unique Golden breweries. There are 27 craft beers on tap (a half dozen of their own and great guest beers from across the country) and 24 wine taps. If you’re not familiar with tap wines, it’s a growing trend and the freshest way to enjoy wine right from the barrel, including wines produced right here in Colorado. A local’s tip: Stop by and say hi to the owner’s two dogs, Pixie and Oba.

CLEAR CREEK TRAIL

The most popular trail in Golden offers all forms of recreation, from strolling to skateboarding, from tubing to biking. The paved, mostly level recreational trail stretches from the beginnings of Clear Creek Canyon in the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains, all the way down to the South Platte River in Denver, 19 miles away, offering a tree-lined path with fishing, horseback riding, kayaking – and even gold panning along its banks. Clear Creek Canyon was the historic route the railroad and stagecoaches took to the gold strikes in Central City and Black Hawk, and on weekends, you can expect to see a couple of dozen people still panning for gold, which washes down the river today just as it did 150 years ago. The Clear Creek recreational path is a perfect trail for families and picnics, and there is ample parking in downtown Golden just minutes from the trail.

Beer Stop: The Golden City Brewery is just a block from the Clear Creek Trail and offers the one-of-a-kind experience of enjoying a beer in the brewer’s backyard. The brewery was founded in 1993 by two geologists, in an old machine shop behind their historic Golden home. The tasting room was originally located in the sun room of their house. Since that time, the operation has expanded and now the carriage house is the tasting room and their backyard is the beer garden. It’s a friendly place with everyone sharing tables and making new friends. In winter there’s an outdoor fire; in summer, there are often musicians playing. Order a beer through the Dutch door of the carriage house, find a table, and relax in the backyard. After a walk on the river, try the appropriately named Clear Creek Gold Pale Ale, an award-winning, traditional German Kolschbier hopped with Czech Saaz for a pleasant floral finish.

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN NATURE CENTER & PRESERVE

The best place to get an introduction to hiking in Golden is the gorgeous 1917 Boettcher Mansion on top of Lookout Mountain. Once a summer home for the Boettcher family, this beautiful log building has been turned in a museum along-side a nature center in the middle of a preserve. The preserve has 1.4 miles of gentle trails that wind through ponderosa pine forests mixed with meadows of wildflowers. Exhibits in the center will tell you about the black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, elk, and mule deer that are often captured on the center’s cameras.

Beer Stop: Now that you’ve learned about the flora and fauna of the foothills above Golden, learn about the beer made down in the valley by taking the free, 30-minute, self-paced tour of the malting, brewing and packing of Coors Beer. Coors is the world’s largest single-site brewery and a perfect place to learn how beer is made. Explore a room of giant copper kettles and then stop in the fascinating packaging room, where millions of cans and bottles whirl by, on their way to being filled with beer and slotted into six packs. After the tour, those 21 and over can sample three free glasses of beer (with soft drinks for those under 21). Try a Colorado Native. This tasty beer is only available in Colorado and is the only “all Colorado” beer made with just Rocky Mountain water, Colorado-grown hops, Colorado-grown barley from the San Luis Valley and the oldest strain of brewer’s yeast in Colorado.

NORTH TABLE MOUNTAIN

One of the chief landmarks of Golden is this broad, flat-topped mesa that rises hundreds of feet above the valley and is ringed by cliffs with a half dozen hiking and biking trails crisscrossing the area. The classic hike or bike trip is a moderate 5.9 mile loop trail that will take you around — and over — the mesa top, with 360 degree views of Golden, Denver and the Front Range. A new parking area on Colorado Hwy. 93 just north of town has maps; trails head off clockwise or counterclockwise around the mountain. It’s a mixed-use trail with some steep climbs and singletrack sections for bikers. Once on top, look for herds of deer.

Beer Stop: Cannonball Creek Brewing is just down the road from the North Table Mountain trailhead and a perfect Golden beer stop. Cannonball Creek was the original name of Clear Creek, which flows through the heart of downtown. In its first year, this young brewery took two prestigious silver medals at the Great American Beer Festival. They took Gold in 2014. They usually have between 6-12 craft beers on tap. After a tough hike or bike ride, you deserve the Almond Chocolate Stout, brewed with six pounds of fresh roasted almonds and a generous portion of Belgian dark chocolate to give it a nutty, bittersweet chocolate finish.

WHITE RANCH

Located just a few miles west of Golden, this gorgeous old ranch has 20 miles of multi-use trails arranged in ingenious patterns, offering a wide number of loop hikes or mountain bike rides for all abilities and lengths. There are mountain and canyon views, old ranch barns, and a collection of antique farm equipment that all make for wonderful photos. Hike in pine forests or across open meadows. It is especially wonderful after a fresh snowfall for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. In the fall, there are pretty stands of aspen that turn all shades of gold.

Beer Stop: The Mountain Toad is the quintessential Colorado brewery with big windows that open to the outdoors, an outdoor patio with food trucks, a beer garden, and 6-12 craft beers on tap. Check out the chalkboard to see what beers have been added to the menu. You can bring in your own food, or buy food at the adjoining food truck, or even order in a pizza. Dogs are welcome and mingle with guests inside and out. Try a tray of four ounce samples, or if you’ve just come from White Ranch, dig into the White Ranch Wit — a complex wheat ale brewed with orange blossom honey, grapefruit peel and coriander with notes of citrus and spice.

Alternate Beer Stops: If you are Gluten-Free, Golden has a brewery for you! After your Golden adventure, head to Holidaily Brewing Co., the only dedicated, gluten-free brewing facility in the state of Colorado. Holidaily is dedicated to creating great-tasting gluten free craft beer.

Cheers!

7 Reasons to Fall in Love with Golden…

Written by Joy Meadows on August 25, 2017. Posted in Fall Activities.

Here’s a little secret. Labor Day throughout fall is a great time to get out and about and visit Golden. Why? Well, first you have Labor Day weekend – three glorious days to enjoy the end of summer in Colorado’s closest mountain town without the mountain traffic. And then, as we head into autumn, Golden comes alive with fall colors, fun events, fantastic sales, harvest dinners and more.

Here are 7 reasons to fall in love with Golden!

Autumn Colors -What could be prettier than a walk alongside fast rushing Clear Creek lined for miles with blazing yellow, orange and burnt red cottonwoods and maples? Enjoy the crisp air in Golden and take in the fall colors. Or visit nearby Golden Gate Canyon to view beautiful fall colors while hiking near alpine lakes.

Fall Sunsets on Washington Avenue or from North Table Mountain –

Before we turn back the clock, you can still get to Golden in time for a pleasant weeknight stroll through downtown, dinner at a delicious local spot and a sunset on Washington Avenue. Or – head for the nearby hills for a post-work hike and sunset, followed by a craft beer in town.

Bikes & Brews – Through October, you can check out a bike at the Golden Bike Library and pedal around town to the local breweries for samples of their autumn seasonal beers. The Bike Library will even give you a handout that will direct you to all six local breweries.

Treasure Hunt for a Glass Orb – Each day in September, a beautiful one-of-a-kind glass orb will be placed somewhere in plain sight in Golden city limits. “finders” are “keepers” of these treasures, handcrafted by local artisans. Each orb is marked with a special tag and instructions of how treasure finders can register their orb at the Foothills Art Center, where they will receive a certificate of authenticity and be entered in a drawing on Oct. 2 to win a $200 gift card to be used at select spots in Golden.

Sidewalk Sale – Don’t miss the Golden Sidewalk Sale on Sept. 9 – enjoy some of the best deals on the Front Range for fashion, sporting goods, art, ski equipment, water sports, outdoor gear, fly fishing, jewelry, and so much more on this “One Day Only!” sale.

Eat Outside in Golden – Golden’s patios offer fabulous patio dining or plan to join in Golden’s Community Harvest Dinner, on October 1^st. Enjoy a delicious four-course meal masterfully prepared by local chefs from the harvest bounty of local farmers and served al fresco in Parfet Park.

Take on Lookout Mountain – With cooler temps, many cyclists favor an autumn ride up Lookout Mountain. Or make the drive up Lookout to get an outstanding view of the fall colors in the Clear Creek Valley.

So what are you waiting for? Fall in love with Golden during the fall season!

My Perfect Golden Day by Jon Bortles of Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza

Written by Joy Meadows on August 15, 2017. Posted in Uncategorized.

My, oh my, how Golden has changed! I remember when it was a sleepy little town with just a few restaurants and bars that primarily catered to Coors employees and motorcyclists. My grandfather and father were both, respectively, so I can appreciate the evolution to “modern day Golden.”

Even when my dad opened Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza in 1993, the most fun it seemed like I could have in town involved playing pool at one of our pool tables and listening to the juke box. But that was about it! Fast forward to today and Woody’s has evolved right along with the town – we cater to a more family-friendly crowd with great options for kids and adults alike, helping locals and tourists re-fuel while spending the day in town touring the breweries, enjoying the great outdoors, or even visiting Thomas the Train at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Golden is the best city in this here state, but I guess I am biased!

My perfect day in Golden would probably start with a mountain bike ride in Jefferson County Open Space down the Enchanted Forest and Apex Trail, while my wife trail-ran alongside me. After we finished, we’d head into town and take a leisurely walk down the creek path to the Golden Farmers Market (Saturdays, June – October). After picking up some local produce and a cup of Dirt Coffee, a non-profit coffee truck with a mission to empower people with autism with jobs, we’d go watch the tubers coming down the creek and the parasailers launching off Lookout Mountain. Eventually we would make our way over to the newly opened Sassafras American Eatery for brunch. A carafe of cleverly crafted mimosas and some fresh beignets is hard to beat – especially with a view of the creek and Coors Brewery! Next, we’d probably run a few errands while in town, swinging by AlphaGraphics to pick up some new menus, hot off the press, then maybe over to see Jeff at Golden Liquors to stock up on craft beer and some wine for the weekend. After that we would pick up some sandwiches from Al at D’Deli and take them with us to a Colorado School of Mines football game over at the new Marv Kay Stadium. Once they beat their opponent (Go Orediggers!), we would go celebrate with happy hour at Woody’s Wood-fired Pizza on the porch. My wife would probably order the Drunken Pig Bloody Mary (voted best bloody in the Mile High City by Svedka and 5280 Magazine in 2016) and I’d probably order a New Terrain Lost IPA or maybe a Holidaily gluten free beer in a 16oz can– both exceptional local breweries! Before heading home, we would most likely stop by the patio at the Sherpa House and split one of their sampler platters.

TREASURE HUNT COMING TO GOLDEN IN SEPTEMBER 2017

Written by Joy Meadows on August 13, 2017. Posted in Latest Press Releases.

A Valuable “Golden Glass Orb” Will be Hidden in Plain Sight Each Day…

“Finders” will be “Keepers” and Entered in a Drawing for Another Prize

GOLDEN, Colo … AUGUST 14, 2017, The great “Golden Glass Orb Treasure Hunt” will kick off for 30 days, starting September 1-30, in Golden, Colorado, where each day a beautiful one-of-a-kind glass orb will be placed somewhere in plain sight in Golden city limits. “Finders” are “keepers” of these treasures, handcrafted by local artisans. Each orb is marked with a special tag and instructions of how treasure finders can register their orb at the Foothills Art Center, where they will receive a certificate of authenticity and be entered in a drawing on Oct. 2 to win a $200 gift card to be used at select spots in Golden.

“Who doesn’t love the idea of buried treasure?” said Hannah Button, Visit Golden’s community marketing manager. “Only these treasures won’t be buried, they’ll be in plain sight, and will be a wonderful keepsake for those people lucky enough to find them.”

The orbs will be placed somewhere on public property in the city of Golden (http://maps.cityofgolden.net/) each day at 9 a.m, rain or shine. The orbs will always be visible and will never be placed on private property or anywhere that would be unsafe for “treasure hunters” to look. So don’t climb down creek beds, or on rocks, but look in obvious, safe places, where anyone can go and in plain sight.

Daily Clues!

If a daily orb is not found by 1 p.m., a clue will be posted inside the front door of the Foothills Art Center at 809 Fifteenth Street in historic downtown Golden. The orbs will be placed in Golden, so they could be near some of the town’s many attractions such as Coors Brewery, the Clear Creek river path, the American Mountaineering Museum, on historic main street, or in one of Golden’s many beautiful parks.

The orbs were created by Fort Collins artist Dottie Boscamp and Golden artists Marcie Miller and Angelo Ambrosia using centuries-old glass blowing techniques to create unique works of art.

Share Your Discoveries

Treasure hunters are encouraged to share their discoveries. Just take a picture of the treasure and where you found it and share it to Facebook, Instagram or Twitter with #goldenglassorbhunt. Be sure to follow Visit Golden’s social media @VisitGoldenCO and Foothills Art Center at @foothillsartcenter to see posts on the hunt and get ideas of where the treasures may be placed.

All treasure finders should register their orb at the Foothills Art Center, Mon.-Sat. 10 am-5 pm, or Sun. noon-5 pm, where they will receive a certificate of authenticity.

For more information on Golden, check out visitgolden.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Joy Meadows, 303-522-9045, [email protected]

Shopping in Golden: Local Stores, Mountain Views & Fall Sidewalk Sale

Written by Joy Meadows on August 3, 2017. Posted in Fall Activities, Shopping.

With a charming downtown lined with mostly locally owned stores, Golden offers everything from technical outdoor gear to fine art. Throw in beautiful mountain views, creekside walking paths, friendly shopkeepers and plenty of patios where you can stop for a latte or a craft beer, and Golden is the perfect place to shop.

So what can you buy in Golden? Well, just about everything! From the practical necessities at Meyer Hardware to luxurious lotions at Spinster Sisters, Golden has something for everyone.

Here’s an overview of what you can find.

Outdoor Gear: It’s only fitting that Golden is know for its gear shops. After all, the city is home to amazing fly-fishing, kayaking, rock climbing and more. If you are looking for hiking or climbing gear, Bent Gate Mountaineering is the Metro area’s go-to experts. Arbor Angles is a premiere fly shop and Golden River Sports offers both fly-fishing and kayaking gear and advice. Runners High is home to a community of Golden runners who swear by their gear, as well as their weekly community runs and expert advice. Cyclists love Peak Cycles, Pedal Pushers Cyclery, Big Ring Cycles, Boushie Built Custom Bicycle Studio or Golden Bike Shop. And if you ‘re looking for skis and snowboard gear, check out both Icelantic and Powder 7, two great Golden-based shops known for quality and performance.

Men’s & Women’s Clothing: Golden guys and gals are definitely sporty, but like to look fashionable too. Toad&Co Golden and Vital Outdoors offer men and women’s clothing perfect for a Golden look. Baby Doe’s has women’s clothes for every occasion, as well as handmade jewelry. Golden is also home to Clothes Mine and Rewind and Truly Bohotique, consignment shops that sell quality brands at a fraction of the cost.

Toys & Candy: Kids love Golden too. And a big part of the reason why are the town’s excellent toy and candy shops! Check out Avenue Gifts and Golden Goods for fun games and kids toys. Golden Sweets is the place to stop for old time candy as well as fine chocolates.

Antiques, Jewelry, Gifts & Specialty Shops: Nature’s Gift Candleworks is worth a stop for the smell alone. The scent of the hand made candles is divine. Blue Moose Trading Company offers a rustic-industrial aesthetic and eclectic vibe. Avenue Gifts sells a wide range of gifts for all ages, and Golden and Coors souvenirs. You could spend an entire afternoon taking a trip down memory lane at Rockin’ Horse Antiques. At Red Wagon Boutique & Garden Shoppe, you’ll find wonderful gifts for the home and garden, plus adorable pillow pets. Period Six offers artisan cards, art and “ephemera.” And who doesn’t love jewelry? Hometown jewelers Creekside Jewelers offer a wide selection and friendly service.

Liven up your shopping experience with fresh air, mountain views and a cool, friendly local vibe at the fall Sidewalk Sale, Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Shop Golden!

Hey Colorado Springs – Here are 7 Reasons Why You’ll Love a Visit to Nearby Golden!

Written by Joy Meadows on July 27, 2017. Posted in Golden Highlights.

The weekend is almost here but you were too busy to plan ahead. The family wants to do something new, but it’s the height of tourist season in the mountains, that concert in Denver is sold out and you know if you stay home, you’ll end up doing errands and chores. What to do?

How about a Golden day trip or overnight getaway? Colorado’s original state capital is only an easy hour-and-a-half drive from the Springs and with its fun downtown, biking, hiking, history and family fun, you can still score a perfect Colorado day or weekend without having to plan ahead.

Golden is a charming college town that sits on the edge of the Rocky Mountains and is home to a beautiful and historic downtown that is well known for the beloved welcome arch that spans its main street and says “Howdy Folks! Welcome to Golden.” Gorgeous Clear Creek runs through the center of downtown, there are tree lined bike paths and a free bike library, nearby hiking trails, farmer’s markets, family-friendly events, museums and more.

Golden is close enough that Springs residents can jump in the car on the spur of the moment and be ready for adventure in no time. Here’s why it’s the perfect spontaneous getaway:

1. There’s a Mountaineering Museum! We kid you not – an entire museum dedicated to hiking, climbing and mountaineering! The Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum is the first and only museum in the United States that celebrates the heroism, technology, culture and spirit of mountaineering. There are exhibits about climate, the science of mountains, Colorado’s 14ers, lightning, and the history of mountaineering in both Colorado and around the world. The clothes worn by the first Americans to summit Mount Everest are here, as are 5,000 other items, photos, outfits and cultural artifacts. On display is an ice axe that once saved five lives, a huge model of Mount Everest, showing the many different ways the peak has been climbed, and where some of its most famous tragedies have occurred. There’s also an exhibit on the famous 10^th Mountain Division, regular films, discussions with climbers and other events, all right in the heart of downtown Golden.

2. No need to haul your bike; Golden has one you can borrow – for free! The Golden Bike Library (located conveniently in the Golden Visitor Center) has 40 bikes available for free two-hour rentals, Thurs.-Sun. Pedal down the Clear Creek Bike Path, a flat, paved, off street trail that follows the beautiful river for miles up into the mountains or downstream to Denver. Or bike to Golden’s breweries – they’ll even give you a map for that!

3. Visit Buffalo Bill’s grave, check out quilts, view art galleries & step back in history! Golden is home to ten museums including: Buffalo Bill’s Museum & Grave, the final resting spot and museum dedicated to the life of the American West’s most famous character who was a buffalo hunter, Pony Express rider, scout for the U.S. Army, and the showman who essentially brought the West to the rest of the world; the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, which showcases the scope of quilting, from bed coverings of the 1800’s to contemporary art pieces; Foothills Art Center, a regional art powerhouse housed in a Gothic style church and Queen Anne manse. Definitely make a stop at Clear Creek History Park, where you can walk among the park like setting that houses an historic one-room school house and settler’s cabin.

4. Ride a train back into history. It was the railroads that won the West, and there’s nothing like hearing a steam whistle echo off the mountains, especially in January where the cold air makes the billowing mountain of steam rise that much higher into the mountain air. The Colorado Railroad Museum has a half mile circle track – sort of a giant’s toy train set – on which they run steam locomotives and the famous Galloping Goose – a 1928 Pierce Arrow limousine put on train wheels with a bus welded on the back. It’s the only way to fly – on wheels.

5. Bike Lookout Mountain — or just go for a scenic drive. Featured in the U.S. Pro Challenge, this is one of the most famous hill climbs on the Front Range. The paved road snakes, twists and turns, climbing 1,300-feet in 4.3 miles, from historic downtown Golden to the 7,379-foot summit of Lookout Mountain. The scenic road was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., the son of the famed landscape architect who created Central Park in New York. It was built in 1914 as part of the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, a series of early scenic paved roads that connected the famed Denver Mountain Park system. Today, there are far more cyclists than cars. While it is a challenging climb with 5-6 percent grades, bikers are rewarded with incredible views of Golden, the foothills and the far off snowcapped peaks. At the top, stop at Buffalo Bill’s Museum & Grave for a historical tour, or at least a cold drink in the museum’s snack bar and gift shop. Cyclists can zoom back down the mountain, or continue on a 15.5 mile loop trip, which includes views of a genuine buffalo herd. If that sounds like too much on your thighs, you can drive it and enjoy the views and fun from the comfort of your car!

6. Pub crawl through the world’s biggest little beer town. While you can argue over who makes the BEST beer, there’s no doubt who makes the most. Golden brews more beer than any other city in the world. Start with a free tour at Coors Brewery – the largest single brewing site in the world, than head to Golden’s six craft breweries, three of them within walking distance of Coors. Or pick up a free bike rental at the Golden Bike Library and bike to the other three.

7. Sit on a Golden patio, shop in a locally owned store & enjoy Golden’s small town charm. Golden’s downtown features outdoor patios, quaint coffee shops, a wide array of restaurants and dozens of locally owned galleries and shops selling clothing, gear, toys, artwork and more. Grab a coffee from Windy Saddle or frozen yogurt from Goozell’s and walk through downtown, enjoying the atmosphere. Eat lunch on the patio of Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza or go upscale on Indulge Wine Bistro’s patio while watching the laid back Golden scene unfold in front of you. Pick up a gift for the kids at Golden Goods, which sells old-fashioned toys and games.

Golden and Colorado Springs. You’ll feel a world away but Golden is only a short drive you can make on a moment’s notice. For more info, check out visitgolden.com.

My Golden Day – Shannon Shuey, Coors Tour Representative & Golden Native

Written by Joy Meadows on July 24, 2017. Posted in Uncategorized.

Shannon Shuey’s family has been in Golden since the Great Depression, making him a third-generation Goldenite. He’s lived in Golden for most of his life, and his roots run deep—both his grandfather and his parents were small business owners here.

As a Tour Representative at Coors Brewery, Shuey is proud to continue to call Golden home. He’s been with Coors for just over ten years, and the commute (or lack there-of) is a major perk. For Shuey, living and working in Golden means being part of an incredible community that provides something for nearly every interest. Golden’s traditions truly bring this community to life, Shuey says, and his favorite traditions include the Candlelight Walk and Buffalo Bill Days. Plus, he enjoys the convenience of being perfectly placed between the mountains and the city.

Shuey’s Golden Day goes a little like this…

My Golden Day starts with breakfast at the Golden Diner. I love their menu items, and the ambiance reminds me of growing up in Golden. From there I would spend most of my morning playing golf at Fossil Trace Golf Club. Fossil Trace is one of the best golf courses in Colorado, and arguably the best public course in the state. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful and they keep the course in excellent condition.

For lunch, I would head to the famous D’Deli on Washington Avenue. I often recommend D’Deli to visitors who inquire about unique places to eat in Golden because their menu has some of the most creative and interesting sandwiches I’ve seen anywhere.

My next stop would be the Colorado Railroad Museum, which I’ve been visiting since I was very young and is still one of my favorite places. In addition to the outdoor railroad equipment, it is worth checking out the exhibits inside the museum building as there are some rare items on display.

I’d follow that up with a trip back to downtown Golden. There are so many great people in downtown that really give it that small-town feeling even though Golden has grown. Del’s Tonsorial Parlor has cut my hair since I was a child, and Avenue Gifts continues the tradition of quality retail outlets in downtown Golden. Another town staple is Meyer Hardware where I always raid the excellent stock of fishing tackle and purchase my annual fishing license.

Right next door to Meyer’s is one of my new favorite places in Golden: Miners Saloon. They offer delicious food and a nice selection of drinks. But nothing beats a Coors Banquet Beer in any Golden establishment—a town that truly embodies the spirit of beer and a drink that is brewed in my hometown and no place else.

7 Reasons Golden is the Perfect Fort Collins Getaway

Written by Joy Meadows on July 11, 2017. Posted in Featured, Golden Highlights.

How about a Golden day trip or overnight getaway? Colorado’s original state capital is an easy hour-and-a-half drive from Fort Collins and with it’s lively downtown, biking, hiking, history and family fun, you can still score a perfect Colorado day or weekend without having to plan ahead.

Why Golden? This charming college town sits on the edge of the Rocky Mountains and is home to a beautiful and historic downtown that is well known for the beloved welcome arch that spans its main street and says “Howdy Folks! Welcome to Golden.” Gorgeous Clear Creek runs through the center of downtown, there are tree lined bike paths and a free bike library, nearby hiking trails, farmer’s markets, street fairs, museums and more.

Plus, if you’re from Fort Collins, you probably appreciate beer. Fort Collins has Anheuser Bush and some of the largest and best-known craft breweries, such as, New Belgium and Funkwerks. Golden is home to the world’s largest single site brewery, Coors, as well as some of the state’s smallest craft breweries including Golden City Brewery where the beer garden is literally in the brewer’s backyard.

But before you enjoy that beer, here are seven Golden activities that Ft. Collins folks will love….

3. Visit Buffalo Bill’s grave, check out quilts, view art galleries & step back in history! Golden is home to ten museums including: Buffalo Bill’s Museum & Grave, the final resting spot and museum dedicated to the life of the American West’s most famous character who was a buffalo hunter, Pony Express rider, scout for the U.S. Army, and the showman who essentially brought the West to the rest of the world; the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, which showcases the scope of quilting, from bedcoverings of the 1800’s to contemporary art pieces; Foothills Art Center, a regional art powerhouse housed in a Gothic style church and Queen Anne manse. Definitely make a stop at Clear Creek History Park, where you can walk among the park like setting that houses an historic one-room school house and settler’s cabin.

Golden and Fort Collins. You’ll feel a world away but it’s only a short drive you can make on a moment’s notice. Best of all, you’ll be able to take on all your favorite activities in a new place. For more info, check out visitgolden.com.

Savor Summer in Golden: Visit Golden Tip Sheet

Written by Joy Meadows on July 10, 2017. Posted in Summer Activities.

GOLDEN Colo., Summer, 2017…Summer in Golden – could it be any lovelier? Walk along Clear Creek and watch the kayakers and fly fishers at play. Earn bragging rights by biking up Lookout Mountain. Shop for sporty summer outfits, check out the unique shops and enjoy an ice cream cone while walking along Washington Avenue. Catch a movie & music in Parfet Park. Browse top quality artwork at the Golden Fine Arts Festival. Golden is a perfect summer escape!

Golden is an ideal spot for visiting family & friends…Ahh! Summer in Colorado! Concerts at Red Rocks, craft beer on sunny patios, hikes in the glorious mountains and….out-of-state friends and family clamoring to visit! Do you have friends and family visiting this summer? Here are nine reasons to bring them to Golden to easily experience the best of Colorado.

Golden is going to be EVENTFUL this summer! – From First Fridays to Buffalo Bill Days, Golden is a great place for events and festivals. Click here for more info on Thomas the Train, movies & music in the park, the Golden Fine Arts Festival and more. Check out our events calendar at http://visitgolden.com/events-all/

The Golden Bike Library Beer Tour — The Golden Bike Library is back! Believe it or not, you can check out bikes for FREE for excursions under two hours. Located creekside by the Golden Visitor Center, grab a bike and get pedaling along the Clear Creek Trail or into town. Kids’ bikes available too. You can even pick up a map to guide you to Golden’s breweries: http://visitgolden.com/golden-spring-bike-brewery-tour/

Beignets by Clear Creek? Yes, please! – Southern cooking comes to Golden! Sassafras American Eatery is now on Washington Avenue near Clear Creek. Specializing in Southern comfort food made with locally-sourced and organic ingredients, this delicious restaurant is a tasty addition to Golden’s restaurant scene.

Ben Butler’s Sculptures to Highlight Foothills Art Center’s Summer Season – Acclaimed artist Ben Butler brings his unique wooden sculptures to Foothills Art Center for an exhibition that runs through July 25^th. He constructs massive installations from wood, foam and concrete. This show displays a wide variety of his work including outdoor installations, extremely large room-sized unique constructions and some new pieces never before seen. More info here.

Golden’s got your Golden Ticket…Summer is a perfect time to stroll the streets of Golden, grab a coffee or drink on a patio, shop for a summer outfit or pick up a present for someone special. So when you’re going to cruise around Golden, start at the Visitors Center to request a Golden Ticket. Read more about this unique scratch off discount program here.

FOR MORE INFO…head to VisitGolden.com, follow @VisitGoldenCO on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. MEDIA CONTACT: Joy Meadows, 303-522-9045, [email protected]

My Golden Day – Hassan Najjar

Written by Joy Meadows on July 7, 2017. Posted in Uncategorized.

As the executive director at Foothills Art Center (FAC) in downtown Golden, Hassan Najjar wouldn’t trade his job for anything. “My job changes all the time,” he explains. “Every few weeks there is something new to play with, to learn about.” Najjar loves working with creative people and finds being around the arts energizing.

And no wonder—FAC is a busy place with rotating exhibits, summer camps and plenty of engaging classes. Plus, the center just opened a large courtyard that is a wonderful complement to the sculpture garden.

Here is Hassan’s Perfect Golden Day:

I’d start the day off with a chocolate hazelnut coffee and scones at Higher Grounds Café in downtown Golden with my wife and twins. Higher Grounds has the best flavored coffee.

Then we’d walk up to Foothills Art Center to take in the art. I love to hold the babies up to the artwork, see their reactions and talk to them about it. Then we’d relax in the sculpture garden and let the kids play in the grass.

For lunch, we would walk next door to the Sherpa House—my favorite restaurant in Golden. We’d enjoy a delicious and unique meal on their shady patio. I need a new pair of sunglasses, so after lunch we would walk down to Vital Outdoors and peruse their great selection.

My wife loves the shops in Golden, but her favorite is Rewind Consignments, across from the Golden Visitors Center. Those ladies always have new vintage goods.

I love feeding the chickens in Clear Creek History Park with the twins, so we’d walk up there. After dipping our toes in the creek, the Golden Farmers Market would be our next destination to pick up some fresh goods for dinner—veggies, honey, jam. To find a little inspiration for dinner, the library’s cookbook section would be our next stop. And since the twins would be tired, we’d grab some good night books from the children’s section and head home for the day.