You came back for the Mines memories. Make new Golden ones.
Homecoming at Colorado School of Mines is all about reconnecting with old friends, cheering on the Orediggers and showing a little Mines pride. But when you’re ready to step off campus, Golden is ready to welcome you back.
Whether you graduated last year or decades ago, here are a few ways to rediscover the town you once called home — or discover a few things that weren’t there when you were a student.
Hit the trail
Golden’s greatest amenity has always been right outside your door: the outdoors. Take a stroll or bike ride along the Clear Creek Trail, which winds through downtown and into Clear Creek Canyon, or tackle one of the many foothills trails surrounding town. In early October, you will even catch some fall color along the way.
Wander Downtown
Take a nostalgic stroll down Washington Avenue, pop into the shops and galleries, grab a coffee or settle onto a sunny patio. And yes, you still need that photo beneath the iconic “Howdy Folks, Welcome to Golden, Where the West Lives” arch.
See what’s under the surface
If you haven’t visited the Mines Museum of Earth Science lately, put it on your list. The free museum is home to an impressive collection of minerals, fossils, gemstones, gold and even specimens from the Moon — a pretty fitting stop for any Oredigger.
Raise a glass
Golden has been brewing beer since 1873, and there are plenty of ways to toast to old times and new ones. If you planned ahead, you can tour historic Coors Brewery or check availability and reserve a ticket for the sampling room. You can also explore Golden’s craft brewery scene with a pint and some local flavor. Ace-Hi Tavern is still a local favorite, and the front patio is perfect for seeing and being seen!
Get your culture fix
Catch an exhibit at Foothills Art Center, explore the Golden History Museum & Park or see what’s playing at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center. Golden’s creative side has grown right along with the town.
Go a little farther
Have a few extra hours? Head up to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre for a hike, the views and a little Colorado bucket-list history. Or explore Dinosaur Ridge, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of prehistoric creatures.
Eat like a local
Homecoming is the perfect excuse to revisit an old favorite — or find a new one. Golden’s dining scene has grown considerably since your college days, with everything from burgers and barbecue to Nepalese, Mexican, Italian, Thai and more.
And, of course, cheer for the Orediggers
After all, that’s what brought you back. Soak up the Homecoming atmosphere, reconnect with fellow alumni, tailgate with friends and cheer on the Mines football team at Marv Kay Stadium.
Because Homecoming isn’t just about coming back to campus. It’s about coming back to Golden.
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