The Ultimate Road Trip from Aurora to Wheat Ridge, Colorado
Are you ready for a fun road trip through Colorado? If you're starting in Aurora and driving to Wheat Ridge, get ready for breathtaking scenery, fascinating attractions, and delicious food. From the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to the edge of Denver, this route has plenty to offer. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or solo, here are the top places to see when driving from Aurora to Wheat Ridge.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Colorado
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge - Just a few miles from Aurora, this 15,000-acre park is home to dozens of animal species, including bison and elk. You can drive or hike through the refuge, spot birds by the lakes, or take a guided tour with a ranger. With its sweeping views of the Front Range and Denver's skyline, it's a great spot for a picnic or a sunset photo.
Lookout Mountain Park - Near Golden, this park offers panoramic views of the mountains and the city. You can drive to the top of the mountain and visit the grave of Buffalo Bill, the famous cowboy and showman. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits about local history and wildlife.
Clear Creek Trail - Running along the creek from Golden to Wheat Ridge, this scenic trail is perfect for biking, walking, or jogging. You'll pass over bridges, through parks, and beside the waterfalls. You can even rent a tube or a kayak and float down the creek! If you're hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of restaurants and breweries along the way.
Embracing the Local Culture and Heritage
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave - At the top of Lookout Mountain, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody. You can see his Wild West show memorabilia, his guns and knives, and his stagecoach. You can also learn about the Native American artifacts, the cowboys and cowgirls, and the Western art. And don't forget to take a selfie with Buffalo Bill's statue!
Wheat Ridge Lanes - This classic bowling alley has been a local favorite since 1958. You can rent a lane, order some pizza, and enjoy the vintage vibe. The place has automatic scoring, cosmic bowling, and league games for all ages and skill levels. And if bowling is not your thing, they also have an arcade and a pool table.
Colorado Railroad Museum - In Golden, this museum showcases the history of Colorado's railroads, from the 1800s to the present day. You can see steam engines, diesel locomotives, cabooses, and passenger cars. You can also take a ride on a vintage train or a handcar, listen to the stories of the conductors and engineers, and watch the model trains in action.
Indulging in the Local Cuisine and Beverages
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream - This family-owned ice cream parlor has been serving homemade treats since 1986. You can choose from over 120 flavors, such as Rocky Mountain Mocha, Mint Brownie, or Cinnamon Raisin. You can also try their sorbets, yogurts, vegan options, and gluten-free cones. And if you're a fan of Harry Potter, don't miss the Butterbeer ice cream!
Olde Town Arvada - This historic district in Arvada has plenty of cafés, restaurants, bars, and breweries to satisfy your appetite and thirst. You can find Italian, Mexican, Thai, and American cuisine, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. You can also sample local craft beers, cider, wine, and cocktails. And if you want to burn some calories, there's a farmer's market, a yoga studio, and a hiking trail nearby.
Conclusion
There you have it! The top places to see when driving from Aurora to Wheat Ridge. Of course, this list is not exhaustive, and you might discover other hidden gems on your road trip. But we hope this guide will inspire you to explore the natural beauty, local culture, and delicious food of Colorado. So put on your sunglasses, fill up your tank, and hit the road!