Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Brighton, CO to Denver, CO

Brighton, CO and Denver, CO are two beautiful cities located in the state of Colorado, USA. A road trip from Brighton to Denver offers an opportunity to witness some of the finest natural and cultural attractions in the region. The drive time between Brighton and Denver is approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Thornton, CO, a half-way point between Brighton and Denver, is a great place to grab a bite to eat or take a break from the drive.

Garden of the Gods Park - Colorado Springs, CO

Garden of the Gods Park, located in Colorado Springs, CO, is a natural landmark with breathtaking views and hiking trails. The park is home to several sandstone rock formations that are more than 300 million years old. Visitors can hike on marked trails, rock climb, and mountain bike. The park offers picnic areas and a visitor center. Interesting fact: The Garden of the Gods got its name from two surveyors who were exploring the area when one said that it would be "a great place for a beer garden," while the other said it would be a "place fit for the gods to assemble."

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre - Morrison, CO

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, located in Morrison, CO, is a natural amphitheater that is considered to be one of the most iconic outdoor concert venues in the world. The park covers more than 700 acres and is home to several hiking trails, a visitor center, and a restaurant. Visitors can go backstage and explore the dressing rooms used by famous performers, such as The Beatles and U2. Interesting fact: The amphitheater is made of naturally occurring red sandstone, and is owned and operated by the City of Denver.

Denver Art Museum - Denver, CO

The Denver Art Museum, located in downtown Denver, CO, is a must-visit cultural attraction for art lovers. The museum houses more than 70,000 works of art from around the world, representing more than 4,000 years of history. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to contemporary, western American, European, and African art. The museum also offers workshops and educational programs for children and adults. Interesting fact: The building's unique architecture was designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, and features a mix of geometric shapes and angles.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway - Idaho Springs, CO

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway, located in Idaho Springs, CO, is the highest paved road in North America. The highway runs through a spectacular Rocky Mountain landscape, and offers stunning views of alpine forests, wildflowers, and wildlife. Visitors can stop at several overlooks and hiking trails, as well as the Summit Lake visitor center. The road is closed during the winter months due to snow and ice. Interesting fact: Mount Evans is one of the few places in the world where visitors can see more than 100 different species of alpine plants in one area.

Colorado Railroad Museum - Golden, CO

The Colorado Railroad Museum, located in Golden, CO, is a perfect destination for anyone interested in trains and locomotives. The museum houses more than 100 historic railway artifacts, including vintage steam engines, passenger cars, and cabooses. Visitors can take a ride on a narrow-gauge train, explore the indoor exhibits, and browse the museum store. Interesting fact: The museum's collection of railroad equipment includes more than 5,000 photographs, some dating back to the 19th century.

In conclusion, a road trip from Brighton, CO to Denver, CO offers a diverse range of attractions that appeal to people of all ages and interests. From natural landmarks to cultural institutions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The route takes approximately 30 to 40-minutes, and includes a stop at Thornton, CO. Whether you're a Colorado resident or a visitor, this road trip is a great way to explore the natural wonder and history of the area.