Free Things to Do in Golden

You don’t need to strike gold to have a great time in Golden, Colorado! Whether you’re here for a quick trip or a longer stay, there are plenty of free adventures waiting for you. Slide your wallet back in your pocket and enjoy free fun at many spots!

Explore Museums & Exhibits

Golden’s history and culture are larger than life — and you can explore much of it without spending a dime.

Golden History Museum & Park – Step back to 1859, wander through a pioneer cabin, one-room school house and even feed the heritage chickens in the coop.
Mines Museum of Earth Science – Marvel at Colorado’s largest mineral collection, glowing rocks, and a real moon rock from Apollo 17.
Foothills Art Center – Admire rotating exhibits of contemporary art, from oil paintings to photography. Time it right for a free gallery tour.

Get Outdoors

Golden is a playground for nature lovers, with trails and views for every mood.

Clear Creek Trail – Stroll or bike along the water through downtown and into Clear Creek Canyon.
North Table Mountain & Golden Cliffs Trail – Panoramic views and miles of hiking right on the edge of town.
Triceratops Trail – A short, family-friendly walk where kids can spot fossils and dinosaur footprints.

Take a Scenic Drive

Lariat Loop Scenic Byway – A 40-mile loop through the foothills, packed with mountain views and roadside history.
Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave Overlook – Panoramic vistas of the Rockies and plains.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center – Trails, exhibits, and naturalist-led programs all year long.

Stroll & Explore Downtown

Golden’s downtown is just as fun to wander as it is to shop.

Self-Guided Golden History Walking Tours – Learn about Golden’s storied past while stretching your legs. Follow the online guide from the Golden History Museum!
Window Shopping on Washington Avenue – Browse boutiques, galleries, and outdoor outfitters — no purchase required.
Public Art – Follow the online guide to seek out colorful murals, cool sculptures, and interesting art around town.

Free Seasonal Fun

Golden has a way of celebrating all year long. Depending on when you visit, you might catch:

Olde Golden Holidays – Festive lights, carolers, and parades throughout December.
Goldens in Golden – The largest unofficial gathering of golden retrievers and their humans held in February.
Parades, Farmers Markets & Festivals – From free movies in the park to fun farmer markets, there are often free events in Golden. Visit our events page for up to date ideas.

From trails and history to art and seasonal festivals, Golden proves that the best things in life really are free. Pack your curiosity, leave your wallet in your pocket, and get ready to explore Colorado’s golden gem.

SEE A MOON ROCK AT THE MINES MUSEUM

Discover Golden’s Hidden Gem. The museum serves as the state repository for Colorado’s mineral heritage and showcases the most extensive public collection of minerals from Colorado.

EXPERIENCE THE OLD WEST AT GOLDEN HISTORY MUSEUM & PARK

Pioneer life in the hills and canyons near Golden was harsh, difficult, and not for the faint of heart. Relive the experience by exploring the one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, log cabins, hay barn and root cellar at the Golden History Park. Visit the heirloom-breed chickens and feed them for a…

TOUR RENOWNED PUBLIC ART

Golden’s public art collection is renowned internationally and features some of the best bronze statues in Colorado. The 30+ statues are located throughout the city and along Clear Creek. Highlights include “Cowboy’s Day Off,” “Rotary Butterflies,” and “The Monarch” which is the large buffalo statue…

PLOD ALONG THE TRICERATOPS TRAIL

Triceratops Trail, a 1.5-mile gravel hiking trail, winds between large, vertical walls of sandstone and into reclaimed clay pits. Along the trail are stops highlighting clay mining and dinosaur, bird, mammal, insect, and invertebrate tracks and traces, as well as several walls full of plant…

Foothills Art Center sign at the newly remodeled Astor House in downtown Golden

FOOTHILLS ART CENTER ASTOR HOUSE

Located in historic downtown Golden, Foothills Art Center leads and inspires the community through art, education, and cultural excellence with engaging exhibitions and dynamic arts programming for learners of all ages. Come and visit Foothills Art Center Astor House museum! Free admission is…

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN NATURE CENTER AND PRESERVE

Lookout Mountain Nature Center inspires kids and adults to connect with the natural world and learn more about it through free educational programs and exhibits. Interactive exhibits take visitors on a tour of the flora and fauna of the foothills ecosystem. Kids and adults alike enjoy the hands-on…

SEE OLD WORLD GRANDEUR AT THE BOETTCHER MANSION

In the heart of the Lookout Mountain Nature Preserve, the Boettcher Mansion provides a rare combination of historic authenticity and modern convenience. The mansion’s interior is largely intact, and guests enjoy historically accurate interior and Craftsman-style furnishings.

CRUISE THE LARIAT LOOP NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY

The Lariat Loop Byway is a 40-mile route that retraces the motoring adventures of the early 1920’s. Drivers experience the thrill of foothills exploration at the dawn of the Age of Motorcars. Colorado’s first gateways to the mountains still have sharp curves, winding roads, spectacular views, and…

TRACE THE FOOTSTEPS OF ROCK STARS AT THE RED ROCKS VISITOR CENTER AND AMPHITHEATRE

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is not just a concert destination, but also a favorite spot for locals and tourists to enjoy unique Colorado scenery. With hiking and biking trails, picturesque picnic spots and a Visitor Center and Trading Post full of amenities and gifts, visitors are encouraged to leisurely…

Countdown to Goldens in Golden Starts Now!