Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Arvada, Colorado

Situated to the northwest of Denver, Arvada is a city with just over 100,000 inhabitants, ranking among the top ten most populated municipalities in Colorado.

Parts of Arvada extend into both Jefferson and Adams Counties, and in conjunction with Denver, Westminster, and Thornton, it constitutes the largest metropolitan area in the state.

Beyond the city limits, the Colorado countryside reveals expansive forests and mountains that are remarkable compared to many other states. Visitors seeking entertainment will find a diverse range of activities to accommodate their interests.

Presented below are 15 activities to engage in while visiting Arvada, Colorado.

1. The Cussler Museum

Named after its founder Clive Cussler, the Cussler Museum houses an impressive range of rare automobiles that have been meticulously restored to their near-original conditions.

If the name sounds familiar, it may be due to Clive Cussler’s status as a bestselling author with a passion for vintage cars.

The museum’s collection includes dozens of vehicles, featuring many from now-obscure brands such as Studebaker and Auburn; the majority hail from the early 1900s to the mid-1960s.

Most patrons allocate an hour or two for their visit, and the museum is conveniently situated on West 69th Avenue in Arvada, close to other local attractions worth exploring.

2. Indian Tree Golf Club

Given the extensive open spaces in all directions, it is unsurprising that Arvada’s Indian Tree Golf Club stretches just over 7,000 yards.

According to knowledgeable golfers, the course provides an enjoyable blend of challenging hazards, well-maintained greens and fairways, accompanied by some of the most stunning vistas imaginable.

For those who prefer a shorter round, a 9-hole option is available, which is favored by seniors and those accompanied by younger players.

The facility offers a variety of amenities, including a driving range, putting and chipping areas, as well as an on-site pro shop and restaurant.

3. Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning over 70 acres of protected wilderness, Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge has existed for nearly two decades and is home to a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the area.

The refuge features upland forests, scrubland, and wetlands that are accessible for guided tours. Additionally, the staff provides regular educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.

For numerous visitors, their time at Two Ponds is among the most enlightening and unforgettable experiences during their trip to Colorado.

Located on West 80th Street in Arvada, the refuge offers inexpensive admission.

4. The Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities

The Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities stands as a notable cultural resource that is frequently overlooked by all but the most discerning visitors.

Located on Wadsworth Boulevard near downtown, it houses a cultural center, museum, galleries, and classrooms, offering an extensive array of activities for visitors to explore.

Established in the mid-1970s, the center has grown to become one of the largest facilities of its kind in the state.

The Arvada Center showcases an array of annual performances, featuring everything from recitals and guest speakers to theatrical productions and classical music concerts.

5. Odyssey Beerwerks

According to the objective marketing division of Colorado’s largest brewery, there is something unique about the water in the Rocky Mountain State.

While this assertion is difficult to substantiate, it is evident that the state boasts a plethora of esteemed breweries, among which Odyssey Beerwerks ranks as one of the most popular in Arvada.

Odyssey’s taproom operates throughout the week and serves as a sanctuary for beer enthusiasts who favor small-batch brews over the often bland national brands. Their seasonal offerings range from hoppy IPAs to porters infused with pumpkin and marshmallow.

Though located in an unremarkable area, the interior is modern and welcoming, and outdoor seating is available as well.

6. Olde Town

Olde Town Arvada is an ideal location for those seeking to stretch their legs, engage in shopping, or enjoy a performance following a delightful meal.

Visitors typically appreciate Olde Town’s distinctive blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The area is filled with trendy dining options and locally-owned boutiques offering a variety of goods, ranging from art and Native American jewelry to sportswear and children’s clothing.

During the warmer months, Olde Town also functions as a lively venue for live entertainment. It becomes particularly vibrant amid the afternoon before shows when restaurants and bars provide food and drink promotions for attendees.

7. Monarch Casino Resort Spa

Located on Main Street in the mountain town of Black Hawk, Monarch Casino Resort Spa serves as a convenient escape for those desiring scenic rural landscapes and fresh mountain air.

The resort is situated just an hour from downtown Denver via Highway 119 and offers a comprehensive list of amenities and activities, including gaming, exceptional dining, and a variety of massages and wellness treatments.

While Monarch may not be suitable for families on a budget, it could be the perfect choice for couples without children, seeking a romantic getaway in a truly enchanting environment.

8. Van Bibber Open Space Park

Travelers to Arvada need not invest heavily or spend extensive time in transit to enjoy the Rocky Mountains; for those who favor nearby destinations with no entry fees, Van Bibber Open Space Park is a must-see location.

This park features upland meadows and wetland areas, accessible via paved and well-maintained trails that meander throughout.

While the park lacks numerous amenities found in other area parks, this adds to its charm, typically attracting smaller crowds of respectful outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a quieter environment without litter.

9. Coors Field

Coors Field serves as the home for the Major League Baseball team, the Colorado Rockies, and spans nearly 80 acres close to the downtown area.

In contrast to venues in bustling East Coast cities like New York and Philadelphia, the atmosphere at Coors Field tends to be relaxed, with audiences content to enjoy the game alongside the mountain air, regardless of their team’s performance.

While baseball games are no longer the budget-friendly activities they once were, visitors should anticipate higher costs for tickets and concessions; nevertheless, they remain a highly regarded and family-oriented entertainment choice on many travelers’ itineraries.

10. Molly Brown House Museum

The Molly Brown House Museum presents a distinctive attraction that was once the residence of the renowned and charismatic figure often referred to as ‘The Unsinkable Molly Brown,’ due to her survival of the Titanic disaster in 1912.

During her adolescence, Molly’s family amassed wealth through the mining industry, and the home was acquired in the 1890s for $30,000—an extraordinary amount for that time.

The museum hosts tens of thousands of annual visitors, many of whom are intrigued to learn about the life and era of this fascinating woman. Guided tours are available, and admission is affordably priced.

11. Colorado State Capitol Building

Situated on East Colfax Avenue in downtown Denver, the Colorado State Capitol Building closely resembles the US Capitol in Washington DC and was constructed using local granite in the 1890s.

The golden dome of the building rises approximately 20 stories into the Colorado skyline and currently serves as the location for the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

Despite stringent security measures, the area surrounding the capitol building is accessible to those wishing to take a brief tour. Guided tours are offered for those interested in a more immersive experience of this historic site.

12. Larimer Square

Larimer Square boasts an abundance of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, making it prudent to research its layout in advance of a visit.

The historic square is situated on Larimer Street between 14th and 15th Streets and is conveniently positioned along the city’s public transportation routes, facilitating easy and cost-effective access from various parts of Denver.

The square’s origins trace back over a century to a time when gold prosperity fueled the city’s development. It features a pleasing combination of historic and modern architecture, including bookstores, coffee shops, and the state’s first post office.

13. Empower Field at Mile High

Empower Field at Mile High is the venue for the National Football League’s Denver Broncos, located at an altitude of 5,280 feet above sea level, thus reflecting its designation.

Construction of the stadium was completed in 2001, primarily financed through local tax revenues, making it one of the premier venues in the NFL.

Attending a game at Empower Field during the regular season has become less challenging compared to previous years; the turnout has diminished over the last few seasons. For visitors during the off-season, the stadium also hosts live entertainment and guided tours conducted by knowledgeable staff.

14. Forney Transportation Museum

Home to an exceptional collection of transportation memorabilia, including restored trains, planes, and buses, the Forney Transportation Museum is a unique attraction that has been in operation for over six decades.

Many of the museum’s notable pieces boast intriguing historical significance, such as an airplane originally owned by Amelia Earhart and handcrafted Indian Motorcycles once belonging to the company’s founder.

While largely focused on history, the museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits that provide engaging learning experiences for all ages, with knowledgeable staff readily available to address inquiries.

15. Morrison Natural History Museum

In ancient times, the area now known as Colorado was inhabited by dinosaurs of various species; their remains are regularly discovered by geologists, paleontologists, and amateur rock collectors.

The Morrison Natural History Museum is located approximately 30 minutes west of central Denver in the town of Morrison. It is a well-regarded institution recognized by the Smithsonian for its pioneering research and outstanding exhibits.

The museum opens at 10 AM and provides three routinely scheduled tours daily. Although reservations are not mandatory, it is advisable to contact ahead and secure a spot, especially during peak visitation periods.