Summary
Milliken is a small town situated in north-central Colorado, equidistant from Denver to the south and Cheyenne, Wyoming, to the north.
At the time of the most recent census, the town had a population of approximately 7,000 residents and has roots that extend over a century back.
Historically, Milliken functioned primarily as a rural trading post but subsequently evolved into a thriving railroad and cattle ranching community.
Visitors to Milliken have numerous options for day trips encompassing historical, cultural, outdoor recreational, and live entertainment venues, ensuring that engagement during their stay is easily achievable.
Let us examine the premier activities to experience in and around Milliken, Colorado:
1. Daniels School
Daniels Schoolhouse stands as a historic emblem for Milliken, dating back to 1911, when the locality was even more rural and isolated than today.
This modest, one-room brick school remained operational for over fifty years, with numerous former students continuing to reside in the community.
Currently, the school is registered on the National Register of Historic Places and is the last remaining institution of its type in the vicinity.
Being a free attraction, it is conveniently located downtown and, while not extensive, serves as a fitting complement to visits to the nearby museum and Heritage House.
2. The Cracked Egg
The Cracked Egg, situated on Broad Street in Milliken, ranks among the town’s most favored venues for breakfast and lunch among both locals and visitors.
Guests have previously remarked that the establishment offers substantial meals at moderate prices, complemented by attentive service.
Open daily from 7 AM to 2 PM, it is particularly renowned for traditional fare such as hearty omelets, biscuits and gravy, freshly brewed coffee, and crispy hash browns.
The restaurant provides an exceptional start to the day prior to exploring the town, with lighter options such as fresh fruits and yogurt available for health-conscious patrons.
3. Mad Russian Golf Course
The Mad Russian Golf Course lies just outside the boundaries of Milliken. Besides its unforgettable name, it is regarded as one of the best golfing values in the region as per local golfers.
Spanning nearly 6,000 yards from the longest tees, the 18-hole course provides shorter tee options for seniors and children, thereby reducing the distance substantially.
With its rolling hills, water and sand hazards, and narrow greens, Mad Russian offers both scenic views and moderate challenges, with rounds typically completed within three to four hours.
Greens fees are also quite reasonable.
4. Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Boasting majestic mountains, expansive plains, and breathtaking views, Colorado is renowned for its numerous state and national parks as well as preserved natural expanses.
Devil’s Backbone Open Space spans over 2,000 acres, featuring diverse natural environments and more than ten miles of multi-use trails.
Located a short drive from Milliken, it is a popular destination for bird watchers, cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and hikers seeking to escape the urban environment.
Due to its convenient accessibility, Devil’s Backbone can experience high visitation during busy periods such as holidays and summer weekends.
There is no entrance fee, and it remains open daily from sunrise to sunset.
5. The Loveland Museum
Located a relatively short drive west of Milliken, Loveland presents visitors with a variety of attractions not typically found in smaller communities.
The Loveland Museum was established by Harold Dunning, a local guide and historian known for his extensive collection of artifacts and art.
The museum and gallery house numerous items from the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area long before formal settlement, as well as relics from the region’s exploration and gold rush eras.
The staff often host engaging and educational programs for individuals of all ages, so it is advisable to verify their offerings prior to visiting.
6. Boyd Lake State Park
Boyd Lake State Park is conveniently located just off Interstate 25 between Denver and Milliken.
The park’s centerpiece, Boyd Lake, spans nearly 1,800 acres of surface area. During the warm summer months, it attracts anglers, swimmers, boaters, and kayakers alike.
For those inclined towards land activities, options such as hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and camping are also plentiful.
During peak periods, the park and lake may become quite crowded and noisy; therefore, visitors seeking a quieter experience should consider going during the week or early in the morning while most are still asleep.
7. Kress Cinema & Lounge
Kress Cinema & Lounge in Greeley is one of the last remaining independent movie theaters in the vicinity. For those who appreciate historical charm and distinctive architecture, it serves as an ideal location for viewing films.
The establishment offers a full-service restaurant and bar, which has become popular among classic film enthusiasts, culinary aficionados, and those who favor locally-produced beverages over national brands.
The basement bar is adorned in an art deco-noir style reminiscent of the early 20th century. Although contemporary films are screened, most patrons prefer vintage movies, independent features, and cult classics.
8. Centennial Village Museum
The area surrounding Greeley and Milliken boasts a plethora of historic buildings, many originating from over a century ago, during a time when the region remained relatively untamed.
Centennial Village Museum, located near downtown Greeley, provides an excellent opportunity for history and culture enthusiasts, particularly those on a budget, to spend an hour or two.
Situated within the Island Grove Regional Park, the museum features interactive exhibits and often presents actors in period attire reenacting daily life as it was lived decades ago in this region.
9. Lory State Park
Colorado has a higher percentage of state and national parks compared to most other states in the U.S.
While many outdoor enthusiasts choose to frequent the larger natural destinations in the Rocky Mountains, plenty of alternatives exist closer to home for those preferring to stay nearby.
Lory State Park features an extensive network of multi-use trails enjoyed by hikers, walkers, and mountain bikers, with many choosing to dedicate an entire day to their visit.
Admission is inexpensive, and visitors frequently encounter diverse wildlife along the trails, especially during mornings and evenings when animals are most active.
10. Sweet Heart Winery
While locally-crafted beers dominate the beverage scene in Colorado, wineries and small-batch distilleries have also seen significant growth in recent decades.
Located in the picturesque Rocky Mountain Front Range, Sweet Heart Winery in Loveland takes pride in its award-winning wines, alongside remarkable facilities and stunning mountain vistas.
Their offerings span from robust reds and crisp whites to numerous intermediate varieties, and they provide facility tours and tastings as well.
Previous guests with discerning palates have expressed that Sweet Heart’s wines exceeded their expectations.
11. White-Plumb Farm Learning Center
White-Plumb Farm was established in the 1880s and remained within the family for generations until it was donated to the city of Greeley.
This unique destination interweaves history and agriculture, proving particularly popular among children who prefer active engagement over passive observation of static exhibits.
The farm’s learning center offers a range of interesting and enriching activities focused on history, culture, and evolving farming techniques throughout the years. For many families, this experience becomes one of the most memorable highlights of their visit to Colorado.
12. Chapungu Sculpture Park
Colorado features a vibrant art scene, and for artistic visitors in Loveland with a spare hour or two, the Chapungu Sculpture Park is an essential destination.
The park encompasses over 25 acres and showcases numerous sculptures in various mediums.
This outdoor venue is ideal for individuals interested in fresh air and a leisurely stroll. Much of the displayed work emphasizes African cultural themes.
The paths within the park accommodate both wheelchairs and strollers, with no admission fee required.
13. Flatiron Reservoir
Flatiron Reservoir, located more than a mile above sea level in Loveland, serves not only as a freshwater source for neighboring towns but also as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Although it may not be the largest reservoir in the region, it attracts swimmers, kayakers, picnickers, and anglers. Unlike many lakes, it features several areas that are wheelchair accessible.
Prior to fishing, many anglers consult online resources for up-to-date fishing conditions and weather forecasts. While the reservoir tends to be most crowded on sunny days, fishing often proves most fruitful during rain, wind, and declining pressure conditions.
