About Golden, Colorado Real Estate
Golden is simply a wonderful place to live and play. Situated at the base of the foothills, you feel like you are in a mountain town, but you have access to the whole Denver Metro area just a few miles away. Golden is a smaller community of about 18k people, with restaurants, breweries, shopping, parks, trails all within walking distance from town. The Historic District includes homes from 8th St to 18th St in downtown Golden, and also the East St Historic District on the East side of Jackson St in downtown Golden.
History of Golden, CO
Golden, Colorado,
founded in 1859 during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush, is a city rich in history and culture. Initially named "Golden City" after prospector Thomas L. Golden, it became the capital of the Colorado Territory from 1862 to 1867. Nestled in the Clear Creek Valley and surrounded by the Rocky Mountain foothills, Golden was a crucial supply center for miners. The
city's heritage includes the renowned Coors Brewery established in 1873, and it is home to the Colorado School of Mines, a leading institution for engineering and applied sciences. Golden's cultural landscape features numerous museums, historical sites, and vibrant annual events, all of which reflect its Western roots and community spirit.
Dining & Nightlife
Golden, Colorado, offers a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, blending small-town charm with a variety of culinary experiences. From farm-to-table eateries to casual pubs, Golden’s dining options cater to every palate.
- Abejas: A beloved spot for farm-to-table cuisine, Abejas offers a seasonal menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. It's perfect for those seeking an upscale dining experience with a creative twist.
- Table Mountain Grill & Cantina: Known for its Southwestern fare, this restaurant offers a warm atmosphere with a menu featuring everything from sizzling fajitas to green chili stew.
- Sherpa House Restaurant and Cultural Center: Experience authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine in a setting that doubles as a cultural museum, showcasing artifacts and photos from Nepal.
- Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza: A local favorite, Woody’s is famous for its all-you-can-eat pizza bar and relaxed, family-friendly environment.
- Pangea Coffee Roasters: This café is known for its ethically sourced coffee, roasted in-house. It’s a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in a cozy atmosphere.
- Café 13: Situated in a historic building, Café 13 offers a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee drinks. It’s a popular spot for brunch or a casual meet-up.
- Golden City Brewery: Often referred to as the "Second Largest Brewery in Golden," this microbrewery offers a laid-back atmosphere with a great selection of craft beers.
- New Terrain Brewing Company: Located near North Table Mountain, New Terrain is popular for its innovative brews and outdoor seating area with stunning mountain views.
- The Buffalo Rose: This historic venue doubles as a live music spot and a bar, offering a great selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Local Attractions
Golden, CO, is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. The town’s attractions offer a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
- Colorado School of Mines: Golden is home to the prestigious Colorado School of Mines, a leading institution in engineering and applied sciences. The campus itself is picturesque, and its Geology Museum offers fascinating exhibits on minerals, fossils, and mining artifacts.
- Coors Brewery: As the largest single-site brewery in the world, Coors Brewery is one of Golden’s most famous landmarks. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the brewing process, sample fresh beers, and explore the history of this iconic brand.
- Clear Creek History Park: This living history museum offers a glimpse into the life of Colorado’s early settlers. The park features historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a cabin, all set along the scenic Clear Creek.
- Golden History Museum & Park: The museum showcases Golden’s rich history, from its founding during the Gold Rush to its development into a thriving community. The adjacent park is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the creek.
- Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave: Located on Lookout Mountain, this museum honors the life of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody. Visitors can explore exhibits on the Wild West, Native American artifacts, and Cody’s life, followed by a visit to his final resting place, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Lookout Mountain: A must-see attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, Lookout Mountain offers panoramic views of the Rockies and the Denver skyline. The mountain is also a popular spot for hiking, biking, and paragliding.
- Foothills Art Center: Housed in a historic church, the Foothills Art Center features rotating exhibits of contemporary art, showcasing the work of local and national artists.
Neighborhoods in Golden, CO
There are several neighborhoods in the Golden area, at a variety of price points. Here are a few examples below. More info is in our neighborhood section.
- Mountain Ridge: (900's-1.3 Million). Mountain Ridge is on the North end of town at the base of the foothills, with easy access to Mitchell Elementary and town. This neighborhood is a popular spot for families who want quick access to town and the outdoors.
- Mesa Meadows: (700's-2 million). Mesa Meadows sits at the base of North Table Mountain, facing West towards the foothills. There is a great variety of housing in this neighborhood, from high end homes to starter homes closer to Ford St.
- Apple Meadows: (Low 500’s-600’s) Apple Meadows is a neighborhood about 3-4 miles North of downtown Golden. This is a great neighborhood for a starter home, or to buy a home that has potential for equity growth by remodeling. Many of these homes are ranch models and bi levels built in the early 70’s. People love this location because it is still very accessible to Golden, Denver, the Mountains, and Boulder as well. There are numerous trails and open space options from this neighborhood, with access to North Table Mountain, Long Lake Ranch Recreation Complex and trails, and it’s just a mile from White Ranch open space.
- South Golden: (Low 500’s-800’s) There are several neighborhoods south of Downtown Golden that are still very affordable. These neighborhoods are near South Golden Road, West, South and East of the King Soopers shopping area in south Golden. Part of this area is also known as Pleasant View. There is everything from condos, to townhomes and duplexes, to single family homes. These homes are generally older homes, with some new construction sprinkled in as well. This area has great access to Golden, South Table Mountain, and the new light rail station at the Jefferson County Government center.
- Lakota Hills: (Mid 600’s-low 900’s) This is a great neighborhood near Shelton Elementary with parks, trails, and close proximity to the Apex Open Space area near Heritage Square. This is a small neighborhood of tri level homes of approximately 1900 sq feet and up. These homes were built in the 1990’s and later. There is a paved trail from this neighborhood that leads to downtown Golden and the Splash water park.
- Heritage Dells: (Low 700’s-High 900’s) This neighborhood is right next to Lakota Hills, off Heritage Rd and Kimball Ave. These homes where build in the late 70’s and early 80’s and are 2200-2800 sq ft on average. These homes boast mountain views, trail access, and a mountain feel. Families love this neighborhood for its affordability and access to Golden, Denver and the mountains.
- North Table Mountain Village: (High 600’s-900’s) North Table Mountain Village is also in North Golden, about 3-4 miles from downtown Golden. This neighborhood boasts lots of options from with homes ranging from 1800-3500 sq feet. This neighborhood has great access to open space, mountain views, and parks.
- Wildhorse Ranch: (Mid 500’s-mid 700’s) Wildhorse Ranch is a small neighborhood of 50 new homes just south if W 58th Dr. a mile West of highway 93. These homes were built in 2012 and consist of ranch, and two story models with no basements. These homes range from 1700-2300 sq ft. If you can find a home available in this neighborhood, you will get the most affordable newer home development in the whole area. This neighborhood is ideal for families looking for mountain views and access to trails and open space.
Golden’s Comprehensive Neighborhood Plans
Golden is a city that takes pride in its thoughtful and strategic urban planning, ensuring that each neighborhood not only retains its unique charm and historical significance but also aligns with the broader goals set forth in the City of Golden Comprehensive Plan. The city’s approach to neighborhood planning is detailed and inclusive, with each area receiving a tailored plan that addresses its specific needs and characteristics.
- West Downtown Neighborhoods: This area, known for its proximity to the heart of Golden and its blend of residential, commercial, and civic spaces, has a plan focused on preserving its walkability, enhancing public spaces, and maintaining the balance between old and new architecture. The plan also emphasizes the importance of pedestrian and cyclist safety, particularly as the area experiences growth and development.
- South Golden Road Neighborhoods: This corridor is a key commercial and residential zone that connects various parts of the city. The neighborhood plan here aims to improve traffic flow, increase green spaces, and encourage mixed-use development that supports both local businesses and the residential community. The plan also considers the historical context of South Golden Road, ensuring that any new development respects the area’s heritage.
- North Clear Creek Neighborhood: Nestled along the picturesque Clear Creek, this neighborhood is a blend of historic homes and modern developments. The plan for North Clear Creek emphasizes the preservation of the natural environment, enhancing flood mitigation efforts, and improving access to the creek for recreational purposes. The goal is to create a cohesive community space that residents and visitors alike can enjoy while protecting the area’s natural beauty.
Each of these neighborhood plans is designed with input from residents, ensuring that the voices of those who live in Golden are heard and reflected in the city’s development. By focusing on aspects such as community safety, pedestrian mobility, historical preservation, and residential quality of life, Golden’s neighborhood plans strive to create a harmonious and sustainable urban environment that meets the needs of its current and future residents.
Essential Services and Utilities in Golden
For those considering making Golden, Colorado, their home, understanding the availability and reliability of essential services and utilities is crucial. Golden is well-equipped to meet the needs of its residents, providing a comprehensive network of services that ensure comfort, safety, and convenience.
- Electricity and Gas Services: Xcel Energy is the primary provider of electricity and natural gas in Golden. Known for its reliability and customer service, Xcel Energy offers a variety of programs to help residents manage their energy use, including renewable energy options like wind and solar power.
- Water Services: The City of Golden itself manages water services, ensuring that residents have access to clean and safe drinking water. The city’s water treatment plant is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to maintain high water quality standards. In addition, the city is proactive in water conservation efforts, offering resources and programs to help residents reduce water usage.
- Telecommunications: Golden residents have access to multiple options for telephone, cable, and internet services, with major providers like CenturyLink and Comcast offering a range of packages to suit different needs. High-speed internet is widely available, which is essential for both remote work and entertainment.
- Emergency Services: Golden’s police and fire departments are well-regarded for their responsiveness and community-oriented approach. The Golden Police Department works closely with residents to maintain a safe environment, while the Golden Fire Department is staffed by highly trained professionals ready to respond to emergencies.
- Healthcare: Golden is strategically located near several top-rated hospitals, ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare. Lutheran Medical Center and St. Anthony Central Hospital are the primary healthcare providers, offering a full range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous clinics and healthcare facilities within the city that provide routine care and wellness services.
This comprehensive network of essential services and utilities ensures that Golden residents have everything they need to live comfortably and securely. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, these services are designed to support a high quality of life in Golden.
Historic Charm and Outdoor Recreation
Golden, Colorado, is a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously, offering residents and visitors alike a unique blend of historic charm and unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities. As the original territorial capital of Colorado, Golden’s history is deeply embedded in its eight historic neighborhoods, each telling a story of the city’s development and the people who shaped it.
- Historic Neighborhoods: Golden’s historic districts, such as the Twelfth Street Historic District and the 8th and 9th Street Historic Districts, are home to beautifully preserved residences that once belonged to Colorado’s early entrepreneurs, miners, and merchants. Walking through these neighborhoods is like stepping back in time, with many of the homes and buildings showcasing architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city takes great care in preserving these areas, ensuring that the historical fabric of Golden remains intact even as the city continues to grow and evolve.
- Historic Sites: In addition to its neighborhoods, Golden boasts several historic landmarks such as the Colorado School of Mines, one of the top engineering schools in the nation, and the Coors Brewery, the largest single-site brewery in the world, which has been a part of Golden since 1873. The city’s rich history is also showcased at the Golden History Museum & Park and the Clear Creek History Park, where visitors can learn about the city’s past and its role in the development of Colorado.
Golden’s location in the Clear Creek Valley, surrounded by the dramatic mesas and foothills of the Rocky Mountains, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is not only a gateway to the Rockies but also a destination in its own right for those seeking outdoor adventure.
- Outdoor Activities: Golden offers a wide array of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. The city’s numerous parks, such as North and South Table Mountain Parks and Golden Gate Canyon State Park, provide miles of hiking and biking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Clear Creek, which runs through the heart of Golden, is a popular spot for kayaking, tubing, and fishing. In the winter, nearby areas offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Recreational Facilities: The city is well-equipped to support an active lifestyle, with facilities like the Golden Community Center, which offers swimming pools, fitness classes, and sports courts. For those interested in rock climbing, the North Table Mountain cliffs and Lookout Mountain are popular spots. Golden is also home to several golf courses, including the Fossil Trace Golf Club, where golfers can enjoy a round surrounded by ancient fossil beds.
- Annual Events and Festivals: Golden’s lively community spirit is evident in its numerous events and festivals that celebrate both its history and its vibrant present. The Golden Fine Arts Festival, Buffalo Bill Days, and the Colorado Environmental Film Festival are just a few of the annual events that draw visitors from near and far. These events, along with weekly farmers’ markets and live music in the parks, make Golden a lively and engaging community year-round.
Whether you’re drawn to its historic charm or its outdoor offerings, Golden provides a unique living experience where you can enjoy the best of both worlds—rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.
Transportation
Golden, CO, is strategically located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offering a variety of transportation options that cater to both residents and visitors. The city’s accessibility is enhanced by its proximity to several major highways, including Interstate 70, Highway 6, Highway 58, Highway 93, and the C-470 beltway. These thoroughfares provide quick and convenient connections to nearby cities, making it possible to reach downtown Denver in just 20 minutes by car. This strategic location also makes Golden an ideal base for exploring the greater Denver metropolitan area and the mountainous regions to the west.
Public transportation in Golden is robust, thanks to the services provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The W Line light rail is a particularly valuable asset, linking Golden directly to Denver’s Union Station. This allows residents and visitors to easily access Denver’s bustling downtown, whether for work, entertainment, or travel connections. The W Line is complemented by a network of local bus routes, including Route 17, which serves key areas within Golden and provides links to neighboring communities. Additionally, the city operates green call-and-ride buses, offering flexible and convenient transportation within Golden itself. For those who prefer eco-friendly travel, the Clear Creek Trail and various designated bike routes provide safe and scenic options for cyclists, promoting a healthy and sustainable commute.
When it comes to air travel, Denver International Airport (DEN) is the nearest major airport, situated approximately 39 miles from Golden. The airport is easily accessible via a combination of RTD services, including the A Line train from downtown Denver to the airport, followed by either the W Line light rail or bus services to Golden. This seamless integration of different modes of transportation makes getting to and from the airport straightforward, whether you're catching a flight or welcoming visitors to Golden.
Arts & Entertainment in Golden, CO
Golden, CO, boasts a dynamic arts and entertainment scene that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and its vibrant community spirit. Throughout the year, Golden hosts a variety of events and festivals that attract both locals and visitors, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates artistic expression in all its forms. One of the most anticipated events is the
Golden Fine Arts Festival, which has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar for over three decades. This festival draws artists and art lovers alike, offering a weekend filled with diverse art displays, live entertainment, and a selection of food vendors that showcase local cuisine.
For those who appreciate live performances, the
Miners Alley Performing Arts Center is a must-visit. Recently relocated to the historic Meyer Hardware building, this 160-seat theater is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, making it a premier venue for theater productions, musical performances, and other live events. The center has quickly become a cultural hub, providing a platform for both local and visiting artists to showcase their talents.
The
Foothills Art Center is another key institution in Golden’s arts community. Housed in a historic church building, the center hosts rotating exhibitions that feature a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. In addition to its exhibitions, the Foothills Art Center offers art classes and workshops, fostering creativity and providing opportunities for residents of all ages to engage with the arts.
Music lovers will also find much to enjoy in Golden, particularly through the performances of the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra, known for its engaging and professional performances, often plays in outdoor settings, allowing audiences to enjoy classical music under the Colorado sky. Public art is also a prominent feature in Golden, with various installations and galleries scattered throughout the city, contributing to its vibrant and colorful cultural landscape. Whether you’re exploring a local gallery or attending a community festival, Golden’s arts and entertainment scene offers something for everyone, enriching the life of the city and its residents.