How to Spend the Perfect Spring Day in Downtown Golden
Discover the charm and allure of downtown Golden, Colorado this spring, with a perfect blend of dining, outdoor activities, and unique local experiences. Whether you’re new in town, just passing through, or thinking about moving to Golden, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this lively mountain town.
Breakfast and coffee at Cafe 13
Kick off your morning at Cafe 13, a counter service style cafe that offers a delightful array of coffee, pastries, and breakfast and lunch dishes. Choose from a wide selection of fresh food options that includes a variety of gluten free choices. Cafe 13 is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike as it offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Their outdoor seating area is absolutely gorgeous against the backdrop of the historic stone building it occupies. For added convenience, the outdoor space includes a walk up window if you don’t want to order inside, another great feature of this cafe.
This cafe is an ideal starting point for your day in downtown Golden. Enjoy a coffee or tea, settle into a comfortable outdoor seat, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this quaint western town. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or to immerse yourself in the local hustle and bustle, Cafe 13 provides the perfect setting.
Parking: 1211 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Breakfast 6:30am-3pm, Lunch 11am-3pm
Seating: Indoor and outdoor
Menu summary: Baked goods, egg scrambles, sandwiches, salads, coffee (gluten free and vegan options are available)
Website: https://www.cafe13golden.com/
Go plant shopping at Plum Creek Market
There's no better spring hobby than gardening, and a visit to Plum Creek's outdoor garden market truly brings the season to life. Conveniently located just across the street from Cafe 13, this vibrant market is a gardener's paradise. Stroll through the colorful rows of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, and a variety of decorative plants. The sight of these lush, blooming plants will invigorate your senses and inspire your green thumb. Pick out some beautiful flowers to brighten up your patio, balcony, garden, or dining area. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, Plum Creek's outdoor garden market offers everything you need to make your spring gardening dreams come true.
Parking: 1211 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Website: https://plumcreekgardenmarket.com/
Grab some smoothies at Kona Bowls
Continue your clean eating streak with a refreshing visit to Kona Bowls, situated in the heart of downtown Golden. Kona Bowls offers an enticing menu of delicious, island-inspired smoothies, smoothie bowls, Buddha bowls, poke bowls, and wraps, all packed with super nutritious ingredients. Whether you choose to dine inside or enjoy the vibrant, Hawaii-themed outdoor seating, you'll be immersed in a tropical atmosphere that radiates positive energy. The only negative, is that I found their smoothies to be a bit pricy. So if you’re willing to splurge, Kona Bowls is the perfect spot to nourish your body and uplift your spirit, making healthy eating a delightful experience.
Parking: street parking at 1111 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Daily 8am - 7pm
Seating: Indoor and outdoor
Menu summary: smoothies, buddha bowls, wraps
Website: https://www.konabowlscafe.com/
Have a picnic at Lions Park
Lions Park is the ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Bring a blanket, pack the cooler, grab your favorite yard game like spike ball or cornhole and fully immerse yourself in Golden’s spring air. There’s plenty to do for families and non-families alike. Lions park amenities include a playground, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, and plenty of greenspace. Choose a relaxing spot in the sun or shade, share food and drinks, and create lasting memories in this beautiful setting. With so much to offer, Lions Park is a fantastic destination for both relaxing and engaging outdoor fun.
Parking: 1470 10th St, Golden, CO 80401
Website: https://www.cityofgolden.net/play/recreation-attractions/city-parks/lions-park/
Walk or bike Clear Creek peaks to plains trail
Experience the pure beauty of Colorado without even leaving the town of Golden by walking the peaks to plains trail. The peaks to plains trail has multiple access points along Clear Creek. From Lions Park, simply follow the paved path along the creek and it will take you all the way into the canyon. You can also park at Clear Creek Canyon Park if you don’t want to walk as far (parking info listed below). From the gateway trailhead parking lot, it’s about a 3 mile out and back walk. You can make it a loop by walking the flume trail of you cross over the bridge on the way back. This is a great walking path because it’s relatively flat and paved the entire way. The views are absolutely stunning.
Parking: Clear Creek Canyon Rd, Golden, CO 80403
Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/clear-creek-peaks-to-plains-trail
Eat dinner at Nosu Ramen
As the sun sets and the evening air cools, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, delicious meal. Nosu Ramen is the perfect place to satisfy that craving. Specializing in a variety of ramen bowls and other Japanese-inspired dishes, Nosu offers a flavorful dining experience that is both unique and memorable. Located in Golden, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in town. Whether you're a ramen enthusiast or new to Japanese cuisine, Nosu Ramen promises a delightful end to your day with its inviting atmosphere and mouthwatering menu.
Parking: street parking at 700 12th St #150, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Wednesday-Friday 4:00pm-9:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 11:30am-9:00pm
Seating: Indoor
Menu summary: Ramen, dumplings, bao buns, boba, cocktails
Website: https://www.nosuramen.com/
Cocktails at the Golden Moon Speakeasy
End your day with artisan cocktails and live music at the Golden Moon Speakeasy. Nestled in the heart of downtown Golden, Colorado, the Golden Moon Speakeasy offers a delightful blend of history, mystery, and modern mixology. Stepping into this hidden gem feels like traveling back in time to the wild west, with its vintage décor, intimate ambiance, and an air of exclusivity. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a date night, a unique venue for a gathering with friends, or simply a place to unwind with a sophisticated drink, the Golden Moon Speakeasy delivers on all fronts. Its captivating atmosphere, which is often filled with live music, makes it a must-visit destination in downtown Golden.
Parking: 1211 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 4pm-midnight, Sunday 4pm-10pm
Seating: Indoor
Menu summary: Cocktails, small bites, desserts
Website: https://www.goldenmoonspeak.com/#home
