Rainy weather? Fret not! There are tons of indoor activities in Golden to keep you busy until the sun peeks out again. If you’re looking to grab a cup of coffee, check out some local art, or stay active indoors, we’ve got you covered.
Golden Museums for a Rainy Day
Exploring Golden’s art and history is an easy way to spend a rainy day, with plenty of local museums and galleries to keep everyone engaged.
For those looking to get a taste of contemporary art, the Foothills Art Center hosts interesting exhibitions year-round. Nearby, the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum is dedicated to all things (you guessed it…) quilts, including a permanent collection of over 800 handcrafted pieces from different places and eras. You can also check out the Spirits of the Wind Gallery in downtown Golden, which features artwork and crafts by local Colorado artists.
For a little dose of natural history, look no further than the Mines Museum of Earth Science. Located on the Colorado School of Mines campus, the museum houses two moon rocks collected during the Apollo 17 mission, among other neat artifacts.
Train enthusiasts will love the Colorado Railroad Museum, one of the most popular attractions in Golden. Step aboard historic locomotives and explore exhibits that bring Colorado’s rail history to life. At the Golden History Museum & Park, visitors can explore over 15,000 objects that trace Golden’s story from its earliest days. The adjoining History Park features original structures from the Pearce Ranch in Golden Gate Canyon, offering a glimpse into everyday life in 19th-century Colorado. The park’s cabins and schoolhouse are open for tours on select days, so visit the check museum’s website for more details.
Catch a Live Show in Golden
Did you know Golden has a lively performing arts scene that’s perfect for a rainy day?
Catch stage productions, local theater, and family-friendly musicals at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, or stop by Buffalo Rose for cocktails served with a side of live music and stand-up in downtown Golden. Gnarly’s is a Golden go-to for music, comedy, magic, and quirky variety acts. They also have an 80s-themed bar with classic arcade games.
Check out our Live Music and Performances page for more ideas on where to catch a show.
Coffee Shops in Golden
Looking for a cozy spot to wait out the afternoon rain? Head to one of Golden’s cafes and coffee shops. Don’t settle in for too long, though—rain showers in Golden tend to pass quickly, and sunshine usually returns before you know it!
Take a break at Higher Grounds Cafe, known for its organic fair-trade coffee and rotating exhibits by local artists. Humble House serves single-origin brews and standout breakfast sandwiches alongside a full menu of specialty drinks. At Vellichor Coffee Roasters, you can sip your drink while browsing the shelves of their in-house library. Sogo Beans & Boards adds a fun twist—a coffee shop that doubles as a skateboard store.
Prefer tea? Stop by Babe’s Tea Room, where more than 100 loose-leaf varieties are served in a comfy setting perfect for any afternoon pause, rain or shine.
For a comprehensive breakdown of our city’s coffee hotspots, read our Ultimate Guide to Coffee in Golden.
Staying Active on a Rainy Day
Golden has plenty of ways to stay active indoors, even when the weather turns cold or rainy! For climbers, the city is home to two excellent indoor gyms. Movement Golden offers beginner-friendly classes and challenging routes for experienced climbers, while The Spot Golden has than 11,000 square feet of bouldering terrain and a high-tech Kilter Board.
The Golden Community Center is another excellent option, with a full lineup of indoor fitness classes and an aquatic area that’s open year-round. Check their website for the latest pool hours and schedules.
Enjoy a Rainy Day in Golden
Even when the weather in Golden may not be cooperating, there’s still plenty to discover and enjoy—just remember to pack an umbrella! For more ideas, stay tuned to our Golden Events page for the latest updates on exhibits, workshops, live music, and other happenings throughout the year.
