Lakewood, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you looking for a break from city life and want to breathe in some fresh mountain air? Lakewood, Colorado, is your perfect spot. It's a lively city right by the Rocky Mountains. Just a short drive from Denver, it's full of activities that are great for families. You'll find everything from outdoor fun to cultural spots here. Let's dive into the top 10 things you must do in Lakewood for an amazing trip!

Key Takeaways

• Lakewood, Colorado, is a vibrant city near Denver with a wealth of family-friendly activities.
• The city offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical sites.
• Explore the great outdoors, step back in time, and embrace the arts in Lakewood.
• Discover hidden gems like Tiny Town and the Lakewood Gulch Trail.
• Lakewood is a convenient home base for exploring the Denver metropolitan area.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Lakewood, Colorado, is a dream spot for nature lovers, filled with outdoor fun. Bear Creek Lake Park is a highlight, offering many activities for everyone.

At Bear Creek Lake Park, dive into nature. Walk the trails and spot wildlife. Don't forget your binoculars for birdwatching among the birds.

For water lovers, the lake is ideal. Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking on calm waters. Picnicking by the lake is a great way to enjoy the scenery.

For those seeking adventure, camping here lets you experience peace. Bear Creek Lake Park has something for everyone, making it a top spot in Lakewood.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or just want a quiet day outdoors, Bear Creek Lake Park in Lakewood, Colorado, has lots to offer.

Step Back in Time

Lakewood, Colorado, is a city with a deep history. The Lakewood Heritage Center is a great place to dive into the past. It's a living history museum that shows off the city's historical sites and gives a peek into the lives of early Lakewood residents.

The Lakewood Heritage Center has over ten historic buildings. Each one takes you back to a different time. You can see an 1880s schoolhouse and imagine what school was like back then. Then, walk through a restored farmhouse to see how a 20th-century farming family lived. Don't miss the general store with its vintage items.

There's more than just buildings at the Lakewood Heritage Center. It also has special events and workshops that make history come alive. You can watch reenactments, try hands-on activities, or listen to lectures. It's perfect for anyone interested in Lakewood's history.

Explore the rich history of Lakewood at the Lakewood Heritage Center. It's a living history museum that offers a unique way to travel back in time.

"At the Lakewood Heritage Center, you can truly experience what life was like in Lakewood during different eras. It's a fascinating and educational journey through the city's past."

Shop, Dine, and Play at Belmar

In the heart of Lakewood, Colorado, Belmar is a lively spot for shopping, eating, and fun. Walk along streets lined with trees, enjoy tasty food at local spots, and let kids play in the fountains. Belmar has a mix of small shops and big-name stores for everyone.

Outdoor Shopping and Entertainment

Belmar is the top spot for shopping, eating, and fun in Lakewood. It has everything from trendy boutiques to well-known brands. Whether you want a new outfit, home decor, or the latest tech, you'll find it here.

Belmar also has many places to eat. You can enjoy fine dining at 240 Union, a top choice for over 30 years. Or try Cafe Jordano and Chad's for something more casual.

For a casual meal, check out Joe and Luanne's Diner for Chicago-style food or TOTT for affordable Asian dishes. Belmar also has The Yard House and Westrail Pub for craft beers and new menu items.

Belmar is great for a shopping trip, a food adventure, or just a relaxing walk. It's the best place to see what Lakewood has to offer.

Embrace the Arts

Lakewood, Colorado, is a hub of arts and culture. The Lakewood Cultural Center is at the heart of it all. It hosts a wide range of family-friendly shows, from theater to dance. You can enjoy live music, art exhibits, or educational programs that spark your creativity.

The Lakewood Food & Wine Festival is a big event every year. It's set for September 14, 2024, at The Belmar Shopping District Pavilions. You'll find tasty food, wine, live music, and more. It's a great way to dive into Lakewood's arts and culture.

Lakewood isn't just about the Cultural Center. It has a lively gallery scene too. For example, the "16 Hands - Featuring Eight Ceramicists" exhibition is coming up. It will show off the work of eight talented ceramic artists. The opening is on June 21 from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

If you love the arts, Lakewood has a lot to offer. You can explore performing arts, visual arts, and community events. So, dive into the arts and see what makes Lakewood's culture so vibrant.

Lakewood's arts and culture also include art exhibitions and galleries. Some highlights include:

• "I Regret to Inform You... Rejected Public Art" at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities from June 6 to August 25
• "Out of the Quiet" featuring the works of four local artists at D'art Gallery from June 6 to June 30
• "Botanica" event at Urban Mud on June 6 and 7
• "Critical Landscapes: Selected Works From the Ella Fontanals-Cisneros Collection" at MCA Denver from June 7 to September 1
• "Unapologetic Chicana" by Arlette Lucero at Alto Gallery from June 7 to June 29
• "Diamond Grid Collection" by Natasha Mistry at Seidel City from June 7 to June 14
• "Mycolandia" at Dateline Gallery from June 7 to June 30
• "Low Brow" exhibition at CHAC 40 West from June 7 to June 30

Lakewood truly has something for everyone, from performing arts fans to visual art lovers. Whether you're checking out the Lakewood Cultural Center or the galleries, you'll find inspiration and joy in this creative community.

Lakewood, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Lakewood, Colorado, is a city full of family fun. It has activities for all interests and ages. You can enjoy nature at Bear Creek Lake Park or learn history at Lakewood Heritage Center. Belmar offers shopping and entertainment, and the Lakewood Cultural Center is great for art lovers. Lakewood has so much to do, making your visit memorable.

Here are the top things to do in Lakewood:

1. Explore the great outdoors at Bear Creek Lake Park. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching.
2. Step back in time at the Lakewood Heritage Center. It has over ten historic buildings from the 1880s to the 20th century.
3. Shop, dine, and play at Belmar. It's a place with lots of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
4. Embrace the arts at the Lakewood Cultural Center. It has art galleries, performing arts venues, and community spaces.
5. Experience epic concerts and scenic family hikes at the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
6. Stay active all year at the Lakewood Link Recreation Center. It offers a pool, basketball courts, and fitness classes.
7. Explore the magic of Tiny Town and Railroad. It has over 100 buildings for family fun.
8. Enjoy the family-friendly vibe at Great Frontier Brewing Company. They have a play area for kids inside the brewery.
9. Spend a day at Addenbrooke Park. It has big green fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for family fun.
10. Try out the over 350 restaurants in Lakewood, Colorado. They offer many cuisines and dining experiences.

Lakewood, Colorado, has outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for everyone. Plan your visit today and make memories that will last forever.

"Lakewood is a hidden gem in Colorado, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and modern amenities for families to enjoy."

Indoor Fun at Lakewood Link Recreation Center

When the weather outside isn't great, check out the Lakewood Link Recreation Center for indoor fun. This modern facility has lots of activities for families, keeping you active all year.

Stay Active Year-Round

The Lakewood Link Recreation Center has everything for indoor fun. You can swim, play basketball, or join fitness classes. They offer yoga, Pilates, and group cycling, so you can exercise indoors.

This place is a hit with Lakewood locals and visitors. It's perfect for escaping the summer heat or winter chill. The center lets you stay active and have a blast, no matter the season.

It's easy to get to and has many activities, making it ideal for a day indoors in Lakewood. So, why not visit and see what fun activities you can find?

"The Lakewood Link Recreation Center is a true gem in our community. It's a place where families can come together, get active, and have fun, no matter the weather outside."

- *Resident of Lakewood*

Miniature Magic at Tiny Town and Railroad

In Lakewood, Colorado, Tiny Town and Railroad is a place that has charmed families for years. It's a miniature village filled with over 100 detailed buildings. Each one shows the beauty of a past time.

Walking into this magical place feels like going back in time. The village has a historic feel that's perfect for families. The little train that goes through adds to the magic, making everyone happy.

This spot is great for family-friendly fun. Every building is full of tiny details that make you feel like you're in a fairy tale. Kids will love the wonder of this miniature attraction.

There are also historic sites and exhibits to learn from. You can see old stores and a quaint town hall. It's a fun way to learn about Lakewood's history.

If you're in Lakewood, don't miss this place. It's a special spot that makes memories. Bring your family to see the magic of the past in a fun way.

"Tiny Town and Railroad is a true gem, a place where the magic of the past comes alive in the most delightful way. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Lakewood's rich history and family-friendly offerings."

Biking Adventure on Lakewood Gulch Trail

Lakewood, Colorado, is a dream spot for cyclists. The Lakewood Gulch Trail is a top choice for outdoor fun. It winds through the city, perfect for a family bike ride. So, grab your bikes and explore Lakewood's lively areas while staying fit.

Explore Lakewood on Two Wheels

The Lakewood Gulch Trail suits all riders, from beginners to experts. It offers easy rides or tough challenges. You'll see nature, wildlife, and stunning mountain views as you ride.

The trail varies from 3.6 to 35.7 miles, letting you pick your adventure. It's a great way to see Lakewood's varied landscapes. Riders of all levels will find something fun to do.

On the Lakewood Gulch Trail, you'll see amazing natural sights and historic spots. It's perfect for a calm ride or an exciting adventure. This trail makes Lakewood a memorable place for bikers.

Conclusion

Lakewood, Colorado, is a great place for families with lots to do. It has beautiful Bear Creek Lake Park and the Lakewood Heritage Center for history lovers. Belmar mixes shopping with fun, and the Lakewood Cultural Center is perfect for art fans.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre are great for outdoor fun. The Lakewood Link Recreation Center is perfect for indoor activities all year. Tiny Town and Railroad adds a touch of magic, and Lakewood Gulch Trail is a dream for bikers. Lakewood has endless fun for families, making your visit unforgettable.

Lakewood is a top spot for travelers looking for adventure. It has historical sites, great places to shop and eat, and attractions for all ages. Dive into the lively community, see the natural beauty, and make memories in this lively city.

When planning your Lakewood trip, watch for events and festivals. The Civic Center Night Market and the Peach Festival in Lafayette are highlights. Enjoy outdoor activities, tasty food, and the arts and history that make Lakewood special.