3 Days
Explore Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, starting and ending in Golden, for its scenic foothills, red-rock formations, archeological discoveries and numerous breweries. (If you are going to imbibe, however, designate a driver.)
Sustainability Activity
How to Give Back to These Special Places
There are special places and unique vistas around nearly every Colorado corner. You can help ensure these places exist for generations to come by staying on roads and trails, keeping speeds in check, leaving campsites and picnic spots just as you found them, and following instructional signs while you’re out and about in our state.
Day 1
activity
Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum
Quarterly exhibits showcase the full scope of the quiltmaker's art, from antique bedcoverings to today's contemporary fiber art pieces.
lunch
Trailhead Taphouse & Kitchen
We combine great food with great beer. Numerous local craft beers served, Cajun specialties, sandwiches and fresh salads to enjoy.
activity
Coors Brewery Tour
See and taste traditional brewing at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in the largest single-site brewery in the world! Since 1873 the Coors Brewery has…
dinner
Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse
The Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse offers up a full menu of smoked meats and classic American fare with some unique twists, in an historic setting…
activity
Barrels and Bottles Brewery
We are a small brewpub in downtown Golden. We serve delicious, fresh food; we also have 26 beers on tap, 26 wines on tap (to include wine slushies)…
lodging
Origin Red Rocks
Experience authentic Colorado with an exciting stay at Origin Hotel Red Rocks located at the footsteps of the Rocky Mountains in Golden. As the official…
Day 2
Insider's Tip
Wake Up & Dine
Enjoy a freshly cooked, homestyle breakfast at Eldora Lodge. It's served in the lobby.
activity
Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum
The Museum illustrates the life, times, and . It includes exhibits about Buffalo Bill's life and the Wild West shows, Indian artifacts and firearms…
Insider's Tip
Plan for Picnic Lunch
Swing by a supermarket in Golden to stock up on picnic goodies before heading to Buffalo Bill Grave & Museum. When you're done, continue southwest to Bergen Park, accessed along Highway 74, and pause for lunch. Bergen Park, on the National Register of Historic Places, is a pioneer site dating back to the 1860s.
activity
Morrison Natural History Museum
Discover the captivating world of paleontology at the Morrison Natural History Museum, Jefferson County's prime destination. Our engaging guides, t…
dinner
The Fort Restaurant
Join us for some shinin' times at The Fort! This award-winning restaurant sells more buffalo steaks than any other independently owned restaurant in…
Insider's Tip
Music-Lovin' Fun
Review Red Rocks Amphitheatre's concert lineup and reserve tickets to coincide with your byway tour. Seeing a performance at this naturally formed, open-air venue is truly spectactular.
activity
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Visitor Center
It took 300 million years to create Denver's most scenic attraction and once you view this internationally known amphitheatre, you'll understand why…
lodging
Arrowhead Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn & Event Center
This gorgeous property has amazing mountain views and 5-star service, yet only 15 minutes from the greater Denver area. Private hot tubs, fireplaces,…
Day 3
Insider's Tip
Wake & Dine Again
Arrowhead Manor Bed & Breakfast serves a hot continental buffet every morning, with delicious traditional breakfast items and Starbucks-brand coffee.
activity
Dinosaur Ridge
Dinosaur Ridge is an outdoor/indoor museum near Morrison featuring fossils from the Cretaceous and Jurassic Periods, first studied and named during…
lunch
Bridgewater Grill
The award-winning Bridgewater Grill, located in an elegant creekside setting and nestled within the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offers casual,…
activity
Lariat Trail Scenic Mountain Drive
Hike or drive along the more than 4-mile scenic road that serves as the entrance to the Denver Mountain Parks System. Offering numerous switchbacks,…
dinner
Abejas Restaurant
A community-focused restaurant dedicated to seasonality. We use fresh local produce, organic meats, and sustainable fish. The beverage program brings…
activity
Coda Brewing Co.
Founder Luke Smith goal is to provide uniquely hand crafted ales and lagers for craft beer enthusiasts. Luke's passion is designing each individual…
lodging
The Golden Hotel, an Ascend Collection Member
Award-winning hotel overlooking Clear Creek and the Rocky Mountain Foothills, located in historic downtown Golden. This solar powered hotel features…