Arvada, Colorado – A Hidden Gem of the Rockies

Arvada, a suburb of Denver, Colorado, is a charming and historic city located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Despite being located mere minutes from bustling Denver, Arvada has a distinct small-town feel that sets it apart from its neighboring cities. The city is known for its thriving arts scene, excellent schools, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to visit in Arvada and a few to avoid, helping you plan your next Colorado adventure!

10 Places to Visit in Arvada

Olde Town Arvada

Olde Town Arvada is the historic downtown district of the city and is home to dozens of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and breweries. With its charming brick buildings and tree-lined streets, Olde Town is a must-see for anyone visiting Arvada.

Cussler Museum

If you’re a fan of classic cars, head to the Cussler Museum. This private museum, run by bestselling author Clive Cussler, features a stunning collection of vintage automobiles, including rare models such as a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe.

Standley Lake Regional Park

Standley Lake Regional Park is a 3,000-acre park located in the foothills of the Rockies. It features hiking and biking trails, fishing, watersports, and a nature center. If you’re looking for a break from the city, Standley Lake is the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado.

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities is one of the largest multidisciplinary arts centers in the country, featuring galleries, theaters, a concert hall, and more. Check their schedule for upcoming performances and exhibits to make the most of your visit.

Apex Center

The Apex Center is a recreation center that offers a variety of activities for all ages, including swimming pools, a rock climbing wall, fitness classes, and more. It’s the perfect place to stay active and have fun on a rainy day.

Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge

This 72-acre wildlife refuge is home to over 100 species of birds, as well as many other animals such as deer, beavers, and coyotes. The walking trails are a peaceful way to get up close to nature and learn about Colorado’s diverse ecosystem.

Indian Tree Golf Course

Indian Tree Golf Course is one of the best public courses in Colorado, featuring rolling hills and stunning mountainous views. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you won’t find a better course in the area.

Arvada Flour Mill Museum

This historic flour mill, built in 1926, is a fascinating glimpse into Arvada’s past. The museum features exhibits on the history of the mill and the local farming community. It’s a great way to learn about the area’s rich agricultural heritage.

Majestic View Nature Center

The Majestic View Nature Center offers educational exhibits and programs on Colorado’s wildlife and environment. Its hands-on exhibits and interactive programs are fun for kids and adults alike.

Apex Park

Apex Park is a beautiful 1,500-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, nature walks, and stunning views of the mountains. The park is especially popular in the fall when the trees turn brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange.

5 Places to Avoid in Arvada

Walmart

While Walmart may be convenient, it’s not the most exciting or unique destination in Arvada. Avoid the crowds and check out one of the city’s charming local shops instead.

Arvada Army Navy surplus store

This store may seem like a fun place to explore for military gear and collectibles, but the prices are often quite inflated, and the selection is hit-or-miss.

Blackjack Pizza

While this pizza chain is popular in the area, the pizza itself is mediocre at best. If you’re looking for a tasty slice, try one of the many locally-owned pizza places in Arvada instead.

Lakeside Amusement Park

While technically not in Arvada, Lakeside Amusement Park is located in the neighboring city of Wheat Ridge. The park is old and run-down, and most of the rides are outdated and unsafe.

AMC Dine-In 24

This movie theater has been known to have long lines and poor management. For a better moviegoing experience, check out one of the independent theaters in Denver.

Overview of Arvada