Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Firestone, CO

Summary:

Firestone is a town home to approximately 12,000 residents, strategically situated equidistantly between Denver to the south and Fort Collins to the north.

Nestled in Weld County and conveniently located just west of Interstate 25, Firestone offers visitors seamless access to some of Colorado’s most distinguished historical, artistic, and outdoor attractions.

During the temperate spring and summer months, activities such as golf, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking are prevalent. In contrast, winter enthusiasts participate in downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as snowmobiling, hunting, and snowshoeing.

Here are 15 activities to explore in and around Firestone, Colorado.

1. St. Vrain State Park

Colorado boasts numerous state and national parks; while many are less accessible, others are conveniently located just a short drive from Firestone.

St. Vrain State Park is situated mere minutes from the downtown area, encompassing approximately 600 acres of land and over 100 acres of lakes and ponds favored by kayakers, swimmers, and anglers.

The park is renowned for bald eagle sightings and features nearly seven miles of multi-use trails that meander through diverse natural settings.

2. Ziggi’s Coffee

Coffee plays a crucial role in many people’s daily routines, and for visitors to Firestone, there is no more accessible location for coffee than Ziggi’s Coffee.

Ziggi’s is characterized by its quirky and inviting atmosphere, making it a preferred spot for those in a hurry, thanks to its efficient drive-thru service that typically completes orders within a few minutes.

It offers a comprehensive selection of hot and cold coffee beverages alongside various non-coffee options.

Ziggi’s operates from 5 AM to 7 PM on weekdays, and opens at 6 AM on weekends.

3. Carbon Valley Holiday Festival

Named after its substantial coal deposits, Carbon Valley is a historic region in the state, known for its annual festivals and fairs.

The Carbon Valley Holiday Festival is a full-day event filled with enjoyable activities, including arts and crafts, interactions with Santa, and numerous games for children.

Delicious treats such as Christmas cookies and hot chocolate are readily available throughout the day, culminating in a tree lighting ceremony in front of the city hall in nearby Dacono during the late afternoon.

With an abundance of activities, visitors should plan to spend more than just an hour enjoying the festival.

4. Firestone Fall Festival

The fall weather and scenery in Colorado are truly remarkable. For those in Firestone in mid-October, experiencing both can be easily accomplished at the Firestone Fall Festival.

This event occurs at the town’s sports complex and features engaging activities, including a haunted house, carnival-style games, a chili cook-off, and a bake sale.

A portion of the proceeds supports local schools and charitable organizations, making it not only an enjoyable way to spend the day but also contributes to several worthy local causes.

5. The Dougherty Museum

The Dougherty Museum showcases one of the region’s most impressive collections of historic and vintage automobiles, many of which are over a century old.

The vehicles have been meticulously restored to their original condition, featuring unique engines powered by steam and electricity.

The museum operates from June through August; in an age where vacation attractions can be costly, it offers a refreshing, educational, and affordable experience.

Located on North 107th Street in Longmont, signing the guestbook grants visitors unlimited access for the remainder of the season.

6. Pepper’s Fireside Grille

A considerable number of patrons at Pepper’s Fireside Grill regard it as a standout restaurant amidst numerous competitors.

Housed on Colorado Boulevard in Firestone, Pepper’s is renowned for its hearty classics such as prime rib and steaks, while also offering fresh seafood, salads, risotto, and pasta.

The custom cocktails and Bloody Marys are exceptionally popular, and their Sunday brunch is notably well-attended.

Although it may not be the most economical dining option in town, given the exceptional quality of food and a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere, it is generally considered a worthwhile investment.

7. Pumpkin Pie Days Vintage & Antique Market

The Pumpkin Pie Days Vintage & Antique Market is an annual event in Longmont that has successfully run for over five decades.

This event occurs in mid-October at the Boulder County Fairgrounds on Nelson Road and is regarded as one of the most awaited attractions in the area.

Admission is affordable, with proceeds assisting the local historical society in their preservation and educational initiatives.

Expect a day filled with delicious food, engaging activities, and an array of antiques and vintage finds for those seeking memorable souvenirs from their visit to the Rocky Mountain State.

8. Story in the Rocks Hike

For novice hikers, the untamed beauty of Colorado can feel overwhelming, but numerous options exist for guided hikes for those averse to venturing out independently.

The Story in the Rocks Hike is a relatively brief guided journey, covering just over a mile round-trip.

Participants will gain unique insights into the region’s natural history, which dates back over 100 million years when the area was predominantly a shallow inland sea.

These hikes are complimentary, and reservations can be made on the City of Boulder’s website.

9. Longmont Museum and Cultural Center

Situated on Quail Road, the Longmont Museum and Cultural Center serves as the city’s official museum and has been operational since the 1970s.

Featuring a diverse array of permanent exhibits reflecting the history and culture of the St. Vrain Valley, the museum houses nearly 20,000 items, including Native American artifacts, historical photographs, mining apparatus, and household items from bygone eras.

The museum hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year and several annual events, the most renowned being the Dia de los Muertos Festival.

10. Wibby Brewing

Although Wibby Brewing opened its doors in 2015, it has rapidly gained a devoted following who appreciate its family and dog-friendly atmosphere and impressive selection of house-made craft beers.

Located on Emery Street in Longmont, the brewery occupies a building that formerly housed a commercial turkey processing plant and specializes in traditional German-style beers.

The taproom is operational daily, and while there is no in-house kitchen, food trucks often visit to provide excellent fare that pairs wonderfully with their beers.

Moreover, they frequently organize special events, such as game nights and live performances.

11. Pearl Street Mall

Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall serves as a prominent attraction, offering a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

It provides a great refuge from inclement weather, with most visitors agreeing it surpasses traditional malls in charm and versatility.

The mall features distinctive amber-brick walkways and a multitude of shops that are not commonly found elsewhere. Afternoons and evenings often feature live performances for added entertainment.

Numerous dining establishments are available, with Dushanbe Tea House being particularly popular for its distinguished and elegant experience.

12. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

Boulder, home to the University of Colorado, boasts a wealth of galleries and museums typically found in larger metropolitan areas.

Founded in the early 1970s, the museum features an impressive collection of contemporary artwork across various mediums, showcasing numerous international influences.

Housed in a century-old historic building on 13th Street, the museum hosts an array of temporary exhibits from other institutions and private collectors throughout the year, in addition to its permanent collection.

Guided tours, live entertainment, and summer activities for children contribute to its status as a favored family destination.

13. St. Vrain Cidery

While beer has historically been the favored adult beverage in Colorado, wine, spirits, and hard cider have significantly increased in popularity in recent years.

Founded in 2015, St. Vrain Cidery is conveniently located just a short distance from Firestone on Terry Street in Longmont.

The cidery offers a diverse range of fruit-infused flavors, with their taproom typically featuring around two dozen varieties at any given time.

Open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday during afternoon and evening hours, their ciders can be enjoyed as samplers, pints, or growlers for guests wishing to take some home.

14. Boulder Chamber Orchestra

Established nearly twenty years ago, the Boulder Chamber Orchestra has emerged as one of the state’s premier musical institutions, frequently hosting sold-out performances.

Classical music enthusiasts have praised the BCO for comprising a world-class ensemble, and its current conductor boasts a distinguished track record of prestigious positions prior to joining Boulder.

Beyond concerts, the orchestra offers numerous educational programs designed for various age groups and musical skill levels.

15. UCAR Center for Science Education

The UCAR Center for Science Education is a branch of an atmospheric research organization, featuring engaging interactive exhibits that educate visitors of all ages.

The exhibits cover diverse topics including weather, oceans, atmosphere, and climate change, making it particularly attractive for families seeking intellectual engagement for their children.

Located on Center Green Drive in Boulder, visitors typically spend between one to two hours exploring the center.

This venue serves as an excellent indoor activity option during the cold Colorado winters when outdoor conditions may be less favorable.