Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Wheat Ridge, Colorado

Wheat Ridge is a city with a population of approximately 30,000 residents, situated along the Interstate 70 corridor to the west of downtown Denver.

As one of the final destinations before the ascent into the Rocky Mountains, it offers visitors a remarkable blend of experiences, combining easy access to exceptional natural wonders with rich historical, artistic, and cultural attractions.

Some of the nation’s premier skiing locations are just a short distance away for the majority of the year, while the multifaceted attractions of Denver lie even closer.

Presented below are 15 activities to consider in and around Wheat Ridge, Colorado, that merit attention.

1. Brass Armadillo Antique Mall

No matter your location—whether urban or rural—you are unlikely to be far from an antique establishment.

Conveniently located just off Interstate 70 in Wheat Ridge, the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall stands out as a primary attraction for antique enthusiasts and treasure seekers. The expansive space covers nearly 50,000 square feet, inviting careful exploration.

Visitors will discover a diverse range of items, including vintage clothing, housewares, records, military memorabilia, and jewelry. Additionally, a restaurant and espresso bar are available on-site.

Admission is complimentary, and the establishment operates daily.

2. The Bardo Coffee House

Established in 2010, The Bardo Coffee House has been committed to becoming a premier coffee destination within the Denver area.

The menu offers an array of coffee choices, including cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos, complemented by tea, Italian soda, and even beer.

Past patrons have highlighted its fast, complimentary Wi-Fi, plentiful power outlets for laptop users, and a warm, contemporary atmosphere.

For those desiring a light snack or full meal, The Bardo provides sandwiches, burritos, salads, and an assortment of baked goods, including pastries, banana bread, and chocolate cake.

3. Anderson Park

Anderson Park is a public area that has received significant renovations and improvements recently, making it increasingly popular among individuals with active lifestyles who appreciate its accessible location and abundant recreational offerings.

The focal point of the park is its expansive outdoor pool featuring a sizable water slide, both of which are operational seasonally during summer months.

Adjacent to the park, Clear Creek provides access to a trail that traverses natural areas equipped with picnic tables and covered seating.

During weekends and holidays in summer, the pool may become quite crowded; therefore, planning is advised.

4. Clancy’s Irish Pub

Located on West 37th Place in Wheat Ridge, Clancy’s Irish Pub creates an atmosphere reminiscent of Dublin from decades past.

The establishment is known for its authentic Irish cuisine, including favorites such as shepherd’s pie and battered fish. Many patrons of legal drinking age often enjoy their meals alongside a pint of Guinness.

With a history spanning nearly three decades, Clancy’s has recently relocated to a new site adorned with historical photographs and memorabilia, contributing to its unique old-world ambiance.

A selection of salads, sandwiches, and soups are also available, and while prices are moderate, many visitors consider it a good value.

5. History Colorado Center

The History Colorado Center represents one of the newer attractions of its kind in the region, yet its distinctive combination of historic and modern exhibits engages visitors of all ages effectively.

The exhibits encompass various significant themes, including the settler era, Native American culture, the gold rush, and the dust bowl period, as well as contemporary topics such as sports and environmental issues.

It is acknowledged by most guests that the History Colorado Center is particularly suitable for children, especially those in elementary and middle school levels.

The center features many interactive exhibits, which encourage young visitors to engage actively rather than observe passively.

6. The Molly Brown House Museum

Margaret Brown, a native of Denver, is renowned for her courageous actions following the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912.

Known affectionately as Molly, she became widely recognized as ‘The Unsinkable Molly Brown’ due to her indomitable spirit.

Ms. Brown’s family were affluent Colorado residents who amassed their wealth through the gold industry, yet she dedicated much of her life to advocating for workers’ rights and engaging in various philanthropic endeavors.

The Molly Brown House Museum is open throughout the year; however, visiting requires participation in one of the regularly scheduled docent-led tours.

7. West 29th Restaurant and Bar

Situated on West 29th Avenue in Wheat Ridge, West 29th Restaurant and Bar presents an impressive variety of fresh, homemade dishes influenced by global culinary traditions, appealing to both local patrons and visitors.

Popular menu items include ravioli, calamari, steak, and stroganoff, along with an assortment of soups, salads, and tempting desserts such as key lime pie.

The establishment features a dedicated children’s menu with smaller portions at reduced prices, making it family-friendly. Additionally, they offer an extensive wine selection along with cocktails and various local and regional beers.

Outdoor seating is especially favored during summer evenings.

8. William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park

Spanning nearly 2,500 acres, William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park ranks among the largest municipal parks in the vicinity. It is conveniently situated just a few minutes from Wheat Ridge, within the neighboring town of Lakewood.

The park lies at the base of Green Mountain and features a trail that leads to its peak, catering to those seeking a physical challenge.

This moderately difficult hike can become complicated in adverse weather conditions; nevertheless, hikers who successfully reach the summit are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that are not accessible from lower elevations.

9. Colorado Mills

Housing a multitude of international brand anchor stores like Forever 21, Eddie Bauer, and H&M, Colorado Mills attracts individuals who regard shopping as a legitimate leisure activity.

This shopping center also serves as an excellent option during unfavorable weather, particularly for those who prefer to avoid cold temperatures and snowfall, which are common in Colorado.

Colorado Mills is located on West Colfax Avenue in Lakewood and features an extensive selection of dining establishments, offering freshly baked goods, sushi, Mexican cuisine, and traditional American dishes, along with a diverse beer menu at the Yard House.

10. Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum boasts a rich history spanning nearly a century. As one of the largest museums of its kind in the western United States, it offers an impressive permanent collection that features artwork from around the globe.

The museum’s collection comprises nearly 70,000 individual works, with many visitors noting the Native American art as particularly captivating.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum provides a variety of educational programs aimed at artists and art enthusiasts; numerous programs are specifically tailored for families with children, making it advisable to visit their website prior to attending.

11. Great Frontier Brewing Company

For individuals with dietary restrictions, particularly those with gluten sensitivities, Great Frontier Brewing Company in Lakewood provides several reduced-gluten and gluten-free beer options without compromising flavor.

Traditional beer selections are also available, offering a diverse range from refreshing blond ales to rich stouts and various styles in between.

Although Great Frontier does not serve food, food trucks often make stops in the vicinity, providing delectable street food that pairs excellently with their craft beers.

For those uncertain about their preferences, ordering a sampler may be the best approach to explore different options.

12. Denver Zoo

Located on Steele Street in close proximity to downtown, the Denver Zoo is home to thousands of animals from diverse international regions.

Spanning nearly 100 acres, the zoo was established over a century ago and has consistently remained a favored destination, particularly among families.

In the late 1800s, the zoo welcomed its first resident, a young orphaned black bear. Today, it showcases a variety of exotic species that draw the attention of visitors.

The zoo’s spacious grounds are interconnected by paved paths, and comprehensive exploration requires considerable walking; therefore, comfortable footwear is strongly recommended.

13. The Colorado Symphony

The Colorado Symphony, situated on 14th Street within the Denver Performing Arts Center, is recognized as one of the premier symphonic orchestras in the western United States.

Offering a diverse array of classical performances, concerts, and symphonies, it maintains a robust year-round schedule while also providing various educational and instructional programs for the public.

Boettcher Concert Hall within the center can accommodate nearly 3,000 attendees and was meticulously designed to guarantee an excellent view and sound quality for all audience members.

This venue provides an exquisite option for a romantic evening, with numerous nearby dining establishments and bars catering to concertgoers.

14. Coors Field

Coors Field serves as the home of Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies. Unlike many stadiums throughout the country, it presents a unique blend of historical and contemporary elements that contribute to its distinctive ambiance.

Its aged brick exterior and iconic clock are among its most recognizable features, alongside its state-of-the-art amenities, which include a wide range of culinary options and seating at varying price levels.

Supporters of the Colorado Rockies are generally known for their relaxed demeanor in contrast to more boisterous fan bases in other cities. While ticket prices may have risen over the years, attending a game remains a memorable way to spend part of an afternoon or evening.

15. Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is located in the downtown vicinity and encompasses three distinct sites, each featuring various cultivated areas with unique themes.

These gardens showcase a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers from around the globe, including some of the most comprehensive collections suited to arid conditions.

Each site offers well-marked paths for easy navigation, accompanied by informative signage providing insights into the flora on display. A range of Asian-inspired gardens, fountains, sculptures, and a dedicated children’s garden is also present.

Visitors should start their journey at the main entrance on York Street.