Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Littleton, Colorado

With a population of nearly 45,000, Littleton, Colorado, successfully retains its quaint, small-town atmosphere, despite its proximity to Denver, located just ten miles away. Upon entering Littleton, visitors are immediately captivated by the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

The natural splendor extends beyond the mountains, as the South Platte River flows through the city, which is also celebrated for its numerous parks and expansive green spaces. Outdoor enthusiasts may explore extensive hiking and biking trails or simply relish in the tranquil ambiance of the mountain foothills.

Littleton is well-regarded for its family-friendly, relaxed lifestyle, characterized by welcoming residents and a plethora of attractions. The blend of cultural events, historical sites, and contemporary amenities offers visitors a delightful mix of tradition and modernity.

The lively downtown area, adorned with charming, tree-lined streets, stands in stark contrast to the towering skyscrapers of nearby Denver. This unique district features a fascinating array of historic buildings, antique shops, local boutiques, trendy restaurants, cozy cafes, vibrant bars, and galleries showcasing local artistry.

Throughout the year, the city organizes a variety of events such as Western Welcome Week, Candlelight Walk, and Twilight Criterium.

The following are 15 of the most notable places to visit and activities to enjoy in and around Littleton, Colorado.

1. The Littleton Museum

For those interested in the history and culture of Littleton, a visit to the Littleton Museum is essential. This institution showcases the town’s heritage across multiple galleries and a series of engaging exhibits.

Located in a picturesque setting near Ketring Lake, the museum’s history spans from prehistoric times to the present. On-site facilities include a children’s gallery with interactive exhibits, a Fine Arts Gallery highlighting local art and photography, and two replicas of working farms illustrating the area’s agricultural history.

2. Chatfield State Park

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a fulsome day participating in a broad range of activities within the scenic embrace of Chatfield State Park, set in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Popular water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, and sailing, are readily available.

Trail enthusiasts can explore 26 miles of scenic paths, or one might prefer to unwind by fishing for trout, bass, crappie, and catfish. During winter months, ice fishing and snowshoeing become enjoyable pastimes. The park also features amenities such as a floating restaurant, a marina, boat rentals, and campsites.

3. SeaQuest Littleton

Individuals of all ages can explore different ecosystems, such as rainforests and deserts, on an interactive tour at SeaQuest Littleton. Home to approximately 12,000 animals across hundreds of species, many of which have been rescued, the center aims to replicate natural habitats as closely as possible.

Engaging experiences include wading with stingrays, feeding and petting various animals, and observing a range of species including sharks, snakes, caimans, lizards, and birds.

4. Littleton Golf and Tennis Center

Avid golfers can enjoy a quick game on the 18-hole executive golf course at the Littleton Golf and Tennis Center. Nestled in a picturesque locale near the South Platte River and the Mary Carter Greenway Trail, this par 63 course includes a driving range, along with available restaurant services and lessons.

For tennis enthusiasts, the center boasts six indoor courts.

5. St. Patrick’s Brewing Co.

Established in 2012, St. Patrick’s Brewing Co. has garnered acclaim for its artisan beers. This award-winning microbrewery offers a diverse selection of Colorado-inspired lagers and ales within a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can sample an array of craft beers with creative names, such as Irish I Was on the Beach, Strawberry Blonde Ale, and Luminosity Blonde.

All beverages are crafted with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Visitors seeking snacks will find food trucks stationed outside the brewery on weekends, while various events occur throughout the week, including ping-pong tournaments and craft beer drawing contests.

6. The Denver Botanic Gardens

Located amidst the bustling environment of Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens offers a tranquil escape from the commotion. Visitors can leisurely wander through 45 themed gardens, showcasing over 33,000 plant specimens.

Key features include a Japanese Garden, Rock Alpine Garden, and the Mordecai Children’s Garden. Moreover, the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory, one of the largest in the nation, is available for public exploration.

7. Cafe Terracotta

For an upscale yet relaxed dining experience, visitors can dine at Cafe Terracotta in Littleton. The design of this restaurant encourages interaction between diners and culinary staff, making the dining experience even more engaging.

During breakfast and lunch, patrons can expect traditional offerings such as eggs Benedict and club sandwiches alongside Mexican-themed options like breakfast burritos. Dinner is a sumptuous affair, featuring dishes like chicken Wellington and braised short ribs. The extensive wine selection includes both Californian and European vintages.

8. Fifty-Two 80s

Littleton visitors can journey into Denver for a nostalgic experience at Fifty-Two 80s, an antique shop that specializes in collectibles and memorabilia from the 1980s and 1990s.

The shop features a myriad of items associated with popular Saturday morning cartoons from that era, including Pac-Man, Care Bears, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Additional treasures such as trading cards, action figures, pinball machines, posters, and cassette tapes can be found among the over 4,500 items available for browsing.

9. Roxborough State Park

Visitors to Littleton can spend an entire day exploring the breathtaking beauty of Roxborough State Park. This 3,300-acre National Natural Landmark is renowned for its striking 300 million-year-old red sandstone rock formations, which provide an extraordinary natural backdrop.

The park features six hiking trails, where guests may encounter significant archaeological sites and diverse wildlife, comprising over one hundred bird species, black bears, and coyotes.

10. Littleton Depot Art Gallery

Art aficionados visiting Littleton can explore the Littleton Depot and Art Gallery, which features the works of local artists. Visitors can appreciate exquisite watercolors, distinctive sculptures, oil paintings, and photography. Notably, there are galleries located in the historic caboose from the 1890s, which adds a unique charm to the experience.

11. South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center

South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center provide an ideal setting for an enjoyable day in nature. With 878 acres of pristine natural surroundings, visitors can partake in a wide array of outdoor activities.

The park features five lakes, including the Chatfield Reservoir, recognized as one of Colorado’s premier fishing destinations. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are also favored pursuits on these lakes. Hikers can access numerous trails for walking and biking, along with an area designated for horseback riding.

While traversing the park, it is common to observe a diverse array of wildlife, as hundreds of animal species inhabit the area. The nature center itself includes engaging exhibits that offer insights into the park and its ecosystem.

12. Colorado Antique Gallery

Individuals in pursuit of a vast selection of antiques can visit the Colorado Antique Gallery. As the largest antique mall in the Denver area, it has served as a primary destination for antique enthusiasts and collectors for nearly three decades. Numerous leading antique dealers from Colorado present an extensive variety of items, including furniture, artwork, jewelry, and more.

Knowledgeable staff members are available to assist visitors in locating specific items and providing additional information regarding individual pieces. Additionally, arrangements can be made for the shipping of any purchased items to a visitor’s residence.

13. Hildebrand Ranch

At Hildebrand Ranch, visitors can delve into the historical operations of a preserved working ranch. This site, built by pioneer settlers, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds feature a 19th-century schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a granary, offering a glimpse into early settler life.

14. Robert Clement Park

For outdoor recreation, both locals and visitors frequently flock to Robert Clement Park in Littleton, where various facilities and opportunities for adventure are readily available.

Available amenities include tennis courts, a skate park, batting cages, softball fields, and volleyball courts for those wishing to engage in athletic pursuits. A 1.4-mile nature trail invites leisurely hikes through a naturally appealing area, while children delight in the splash park during warmer weather, alongside two playgrounds. The Johnston Reservoir also offers fishing opportunities.