Road Trip to Explore Museums, Parks, and Landmarks
Looking for a fun road trip that offers a mix of history and natural beauty? Look no further than the route between Broomfield and Commerce City, Colorado. Here are the top five places you won't want to miss.
An Interesting Fact
Before embarking on your road trip, it's worth noting that Commerce City is one of the few cities in the United States to have its own oil refinery. So, if you're intrigued by the unusual smells that can come from such facilities, make sure to take a deep breath as you pass through town.
Halfway Point
When you reach Thornton, you'll know you're halfway to your destination. But don't let that discourage you – there's still plenty to see and do on the way to Commerce City.
Trip Length
The trip from Broomfield to Commerce City covers roughly 25 miles, so you can comfortably complete it in under an hour. However, given the number of attractions to visit along the way, it's worth scheduling at least a half-day if possible.
Top Five Places to Visit
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
The first stop on your road trip should be the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. This 16,000-acre wildlife oasis offers a glimpse into Colorado's natural history, including prairie dogs, bison, coyotes, and several species of birds. The visitor center is a great place to start, with exhibits and information about the park's conservation mission.
Point of Interest: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the bald eagles that call this refuge home during the winter months.
The Colorado State Capitol
For a taste of Colorado's political past and present, the State Capitol is a must-visit. You can take a tour of the building, including the rotunda, legislative chambers, and the Governor's Office. The guiding docents provide background and insights into the state's history and governance.
Point of Interest: Be sure to check out the 13th step on the west side of the building – it sits at exactly one mile above sea level, marking Denver's "Mile High City" status.
The Molly Brown House Museum
For a glimpse into early 20th-century life in Denver, visit the Molly Brown House Museum. The museum is a tribute to Margaret "Molly" Tobin Brown, an activist and philanthropist whose colorful life included surviving the sinking of the Titanic. The Victorian home is beautifully restored and features guided tours that illustrate how the Browns and their servants lived.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the lovely gardens surrounding the house, planted with traditional Victorian plantings.
The Denver Art Museum
Art lovers won't want to miss the Denver Art Museum featuring a vast array of art collections from American Indian art to contemporary art. The building itself is a work of art, with its striking modernist design. The museum also presents special exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before your visit.
Point of Interest: A favorite section of the museum is the Western American Art gallery, with both historic and modern depictions of the American West.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
No trip to Denver is complete without a stop at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. This unique geological formation of red sandstone spires and formations has been hosting concerts and general gatherings since 1906. Visitors can hike through the park's many trails, enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning landscape, or attend a concert if available.
Point of Interest: Make sure to snap a selfie at the top of the Amphitheater overlooking downtown Denver, providing one of the best views in the city.
Conclusion
This road trip from Broomfield to Commerce City is a great way to experience the best of what Denver and Colorado have to offer. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or the arts, you can find it all along this route. In just a half-day, you can explore Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, the Colorado State Capitol, the Molly Brown House Museum, the Denver Art Museum, and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater – making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.