With more and more happening in Golden these days, you don’t have to turn into a Netflix zombie this winter. Whether you’re a banquet-slurpin’ native or a picture-snappin’ newcomer, here’s a few handpicked hotspots for a perfect winter day in Golden.
Chicken fried eggs and bison hash at Sassafras American Eatery. Photo credit
Spice it up at Sassafras
On the banks of Clear Creek in downtown Golden, Sassafras American Eatery is a bustling breakfast joint with cowboy-sized portions and a southern flare. Try the unique and popular chicken fried eggs and bison hash. Topped with chili hollandaise and served with jalapeno cornbread, this one-of-a-kind breakfast is sure to start your day with a jolt.
Learn to rock climb at Earth Treks in Golden. Photo credit
Learn to climb at Earth Treks
Curious about climbing but never tried it? Indoor rock climbing is surging in popularity and Earth Treks in Golden is as good as it gets. Try the one-hour Introduction to Climbing class every Saturday at 10:00am. For $30, you’ll get climbing shoes, a harness and friendly instruction on how to climb independently at the gym. A great introductory climbing experience!
The newly renovated Buffalo Rose in downtown Golden. Photo credit
Beer lunch at Buffalo Rose
Don’t let the 3.8 Google rating fool you. The recently renovated Buffalo Rose is a whole new animal, complete with an amazing remodel, cozy ambiance and a fresh menu. Decompress after an exhilarating climbing session with a Hop Valley Bubble Stash IPA. Foodwise, you can’t go wrong with the melty pulled lamb on the brunch menu or the aztec caesar topped with coffee and chili-rubbed sirloin and parmesan. This Golden institution is back and better than ever!
Bent Gate Mountaineering stocks high-quality ski and snowboard gear. Photo credit
Hit the shops on Washington Ave.
Ride your lunch buzz into the panorama of shops on Washington Ave. Golden Rock Shop is a hidden gem for spiritual rocks and crystals. While Red Wagon Gift and Garden Shop is a cute spot for t-shirts and kids clothes. Finally, mosey up the hill to Bent Gate Mountaineering for your gear fix and Truly BoHotique for a wide selection of reasonably-priced women’s clothes and jewelry.
Higher Grounds is located under our Golden Group office on 14th Street. Photo credit
Recharge at Higher Grounds Cafe
On your five-minute walk back to town, pop in Higher Grounds for a quick pick-me-up. As the highest rated cafe in Golden, this relaxed coffee shop offers no-frills espresso drinks and baked snacks to recharge after a day of shopping. Prices are reasonable but the staff are not – expect silly jokes as they whip up your cinnamon-sprinkled chai latte or hot apple cider.
Start your stroll at the Washington Ave. bridge in downtown Golden. Photo credit
Take in the Holiday Lights
Sure, Christmas is over, but the holiday lights in downtown Golden are still a sight to behold. Through mid February, you and your family can enjoy the seemingly millions of lights sparkling around town. Start your stroll at the Washington Ave. bridge and walk along the Clear Creek path for the best and brightest.
The decor of Abejas is made of reclaimed materials from an old Golden ranch. Photo credit
Get fancy at Abejas
At this point, you’ve earned a nice dinner. Spanish for “bees,” Abejas is a buzzy, special occasion restaurant founded by a pair of Golden locals with a strong community spirit. What’s so good about Abejas? It could be the eclectic, new American menu with fresh seasonal ingredients. Or maybe it’s the unique cocktails and vast wine list. Perhaps it’s just the spot-on service or welcoming atmosphere. With so much upside to Abejas, it’s no wonder many consider it the best restaurant in Golden. Reservations recommended.
Hansel and Gretel runs Feb. 1-29 at Miners Alley Playhouse. Photo credit
Catch a show at Miners Alley Playhouse
A perfect winter day in Golden wouldn’t be complete without evening entertainment. While some will head to Golden Moon Speakeasy for cocktails and live jazz, others will cross the street for a live theater performance at Miners Alley Playhouse. Hit the bar after the curtains close to mingle with the cast and crew.