Lafayette, Colorado is located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains north of Denver.
The town is named after General Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution.
This thriving community has a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries – as well as parks and outdoor recreation areas.
It makes a perfect day trip from Denver, Boulder, or Fort Collins.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Lafayette, Colorado.
Best Things to do in Lafayette, Colorado
Originally settled by coal miners in the late 19th century, the town has a rich history that is now put on full display.
Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of Lafayette’s historic old town, where they’ll see some of the original buildings and walk back in the past.
In addition to its rich history, Lafayette also has many natural attractions nearby.
Here are the best things to do in Lafayette, Colorado.
Take a stroll in Downtown Lafayette
Downtown Lafayette is full of of historical attractions.
The city maintains its architectural heritage with many buildings dating back to the late 19th century, reflecting its roots as a coal mining town.
Stroll down Public Road and you’ll encounter historic landmarks such as the Mary Miller Theater, named after the town’s founder.
The Old Town Hall which now serves as a home to the Miners Museum is also worth a visit.
Old Town Lafayette architecture is a captivating blend of Victorian and Art Deco styles, a testament to the city’s growth over the years.
Take note of the beautifully preserved Bohn House, a Queen Anne style Victorian home built in 1890, now a cherished local landmark.
There’s more to Downtown Lafayette than its captivating history and architecture.
Art lovers can explore the myriad of art galleries and studios showcasing local and regional artists.
Take a break at Festival Plaza, a central gathering space that hosts a variety of community events, from summer concert series to farmers markets.
Check out the vibrant dining scene that varies from cozy coffee shops to innovative eateries.
The Simpson Mine Park is a great place to people watch and spend some time.
Let the kids have fun at WOW! Children’s Museum
Enjoy a fun day with the family at the Wow! Children’s Museum while visiting Lafayette.
A haven for children of all ages, the museum offers an array of interactive exhibits and hands-on science activities that make learning fun and engaging.
One of the crowd favorites is the ‘Glow-in-the-dark room’ that introduces children to the concept of phosphorescence.
Meanwhile, the ‘Little Clinic’ lets kids role-play as doctors and nurses, offering a fun way to learn about the human body and healthcare.
For those with an interest in the arts, ‘Art Room’ encourages children to express their creativity through a variety of art mediums.
The ‘Pirate Ship’ is another highlight, complete with a ship’s wheel, crow’s nest, and a treasure chest!
It’s not just fun, but also an opportunity to learn about maritime history.
The museum’s exhibits are designed to appeal to children’s curiosity and spark their imagination while developing a love of learning.
The WOW! Children’s Museum is conveniently located at 110 N Harrison Avenue, Lafayette.
See the mining exhibits at Lafayette Miners Museum
Lafayette History Museum, also known as the Lafayette Miners Museum is a great place to visit.
It is housed in the original Old Town Hall and dedicated to the town’s rich history.
The museum delves into Lafayette’s coal-mining past, with a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that paint a vivid picture of the town’s early days.
Visitors can explore the coal miners’ daily life, understand the town’s unique connection to the industry, and witness the evolution of mining technology over the years.
The museum also hosts various educational programs and events throughout the year, making it an excellent place for both adults and children to learn about Lafayette’s heritage.
Situated at 108 East Simpson Street, the Lafayette Miners Museum is a must-visit attraction.
Go shopping at Lafayette Collectibles and Flea Market
For antique lovers and bargain hunters, the Lafayette Collectibles and Flea Market is a paradise.
Located at 130 East Spaulding Street, this vast indoor flea market houses numerous vendors selling an eclectic range of items.
From vintage furniture and antique collectibles to clothing, books, and unique craft items, you never know what treasures you might unearth.
It’s a fantastic place to find one-of-a-kind gifts or unique pieces to add to your own collection.
This flea market is well-known for its friendly and helpful staff, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.
It’s open daily, so you can explore at your own pace and take your time browsing through the seemingly endless variety of goods on offer.
Spend a day on the water at Waneka Lake Park
Waneka Lake Park is a nature lover’s haven and a popular destination in Lafayette.
The park, located at 1600 Caria Drive, is centered around Waneka Lake, covering an area of 147 acres. It offers a multitude of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
You can rent paddleboats or canoes to explore the serene lake.
If you prefer staying on land, there’s a beautiful 1.2-mile fitness trail that skirts around the water’s edge.
It is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
If you’re a bird watcher, the park is home to several species of migratory birds.
The park also features a playground for children, picnic shelters, and an array of fitness stations for the health-conscious visitor.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife.
Fishing is allowed in the lake, with the right license, and is a favorite pastime for many of the park’s visitors.
Waneka Lake Park is a great destination to unwind, breathe in some fresh air, and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
Enjoy the facilities at Bob L Burger Recreation Center
When it comes to community facilities in Lafayette, the Bob L Burger Recreation Center stands out as a must-visit.
Providing a range of activities for all ages, this comprehensive recreational hub is located at 111 West Baseline Road.
The center is perfect whether you’re looking to maintain a fitness regime, take a leisurely swim, or find engaging programs for your children.
The facility boasts an impressive indoor aquatic area that includes a leisure pool with a giant slide, a lap pool, and hot tub.
There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness area stocked with cardio and weight equipment, a gymnasium, racquetball courts, and a running track.
The center also runs numerous instructional classes and has a dedicated aerobics room.
For younger visitors, the center offers various youth programs and camps.
The Bob L Burger Recreation Center is a great community space in the town.
Be charmed by the Simpson Mine Park
Simpson Mine Park is a small pocket park in the heart of Lafayette.
This green space holds a historical significance that harks back to the town’s roots in the coal mining industry.
The park is named after the Simpson Mine, the town’s first coal mine, which was instrumental in shaping Lafayette’s socio-economic fabric in the early 20th century.
Visitors to the park can still see the original mine shaft, a silent yet powerful reminder of Lafayette’s vibrant past.
The park itself offers a tranquil retreat in the midst of the bustling town.
With well maintained lawns, walking trails, and benches thoughtfully placed under the shade of mature trees, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation, picnic, or reading a book.
An iconic feature of the park is the gazebo, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.
The children’s play area is equipped with a variety of safe and fun playground equipment, making it a favorite among the young visitors.
The park also features an interpretive sign that provides insights into the town’s mining history.
Simpson Mine Park, located at 500 E Simpson St, is a testament to Lafayette’s rich heritage.
Enjoy a game of golf at Indian Peaks Golf Course
Indian Peaks Golf Course offers an exceptional golfing experience for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike.
Known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, this public golf course boasts a challenging 18-hole layout designed by renowned golf course architect, Hale Irwin.
The course’s strategic bunkering, multi-level greens, and stunning views of the Front Range make it a popular choice among locals and visitors.
The fairways are lined with native grasses and several water hazards come into play, adding to the overall challenge of the course.
The facility also offers a driving range, a chipping area, and a practice putting green for golfers looking to improve their game.
Lessons are available from PGA professionals for those who want to take their skills to the next level.
Indian Peaks Golf Course, located at 2300 Indian Peaks Trail, also houses a fully stocked pro-shop and a restaurant with scenic views of the course.
Check out the breweries in Lafayette
Lafayette, Colorado, is home to several breweries that have gained a reputation for their innovative and quality craft beers.
One such establishment is the Odd13 Brewing, located at 301 East Simpson Street.
This brewery is renowned for its creative and diverse range of beers, with a focus on hop-forward and mixed fermentation brews.
Their taproom is a welcoming space where you can taste their unique brews in a laid-back setting.
Just a stone’s throw away is Liquid Mechanics Brewing Company.
This locally owned and operated brewery is known for their award-winning brews like Liquid Mechanics IPA and Peanut Butter Porter.
Situated at 297 US-287, the brewery also offers regular live music events, making it a perfect place to enjoy a night out in Lafayette.
The Post located at 105 West Emma Street is another must-visit for beer enthusiasts.
Besides serving up refreshing ales and lagers, they also offer a mouth-watering food menu which perfectly complements their brews.
You can also opt for an adult craft beer tour to see the breweries.
The Lafayette Brew Fest is another great time to taste some amazing beers, learn more about the brewing process, and meet the dedicated people behind these great products.
Beat the heat at The Great Outdoors Waterpark
The Great Outdoors Waterpark is an excellent place to cool off during those hot summer days in Lafayette, Colorado.
Located at 500 Waneka Parkway, the park features a variety of water-based activities suitable for all age groups.
For thrill-seekers, there’s a large pool with a wave generator, a whirlpool, and exciting water slides.
For those seeking a more relaxing experience, there’s a lazy river where you can float along with the current.
The smallest visitors are not forgotten either – they can enjoy a dedicated toddler zone with a splash pad and mini slides.
The park also offers plenty of shaded areas, lounging facilities, and a concession stand where you can grab a bite.
The Great Outdoors Waterpark promises a refreshing and enjoyable day out for the entire family.
Try the peach cobblers at Lafayette Peach Festival
The Lafayette Peach Festival is an annual summertime event that brings the community together over the love for peaches.
This vibrant event, held in August, amasses thousands of visitors each year, eager to partake in a celebration of all things peach.
The heart of the festival is the peach sale, where locally grown, juicy peaches from the renowned Palisade orchards in Western Colorado, are on offer.
The festival takes peach appreciation to the next level with an array of peach-themed delicacies from peach pies, cobblers, and smoothies to the much-loved peach ice cream.
In addition to the mouth-watering food, the festival also hosts live music, art and craft stalls, and fun children’s activities.
The Lafayette Peach Festival truly captures the spirit of Lafayette, combining community, culture, and Colorado’s incredible produce.
Attend the one of a kind Lafayette Oatmeal Festival
The Lafayette Oatmeal Festival is a much-anticipated event that kicks off the New Year with a focus on community and health.
This unique festival, held annually in January, is dedicated to promoting the benefits of eating a wholesome breakfast, with oatmeal being the star of the show.
Festivities begin with an Oatmeal Breakfast, where attendees can enjoy a steaming bowl of oatmeal with a variety of toppings, along with freshly baked muffins and coffee.
Adding to the excitement is the popular Quaker Oatmeal 5K Walk/Run, a fun event that attracts participants of all ages and paces.
The festival also includes a health fair, providing free and low-cost health screenings and wellness information to attendees.
Hike the Rothman Open Space Trail
The Rothman Open Space Trail is a hidden gem in Lafayette, Colorado.
It is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
This tranquil trail winds through open meadows and scenic landscapes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels.
It’s an ideal spot for outdoor activities including walking, jogging, birdwatching, and even horseback riding.
The Rothman Open Space Trail is great to enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness.
Also Read: 30 Best Hiking Trails in Colorado
Take your furry friend to Great Bark Dog Park
If you’re looking for a paw-some activity with your four-legged friend, head to the Great Bark Dog Park in Lafayette.
This dedicated dog park is situated on nearly three acres of land and provides an excellent space for dogs to exercise and socialize.
There are two separate areas – one for small and elderly dogs, and another for medium to large breeds.
The park also features an agility area where you can take your pup to hone their skills.
Visit the Lafayette Public Library
For those seeking a more educational experience, the Lafayette Public Library is the perfect place to visit.
This modern and inviting library not only offers a comprehensive collection of books and periodicals but also provides digital access to an extensive online library database.
The Lafayette Public Library organizes many events including author talks, story hours, science experiments, and reading clubs for all ages.
They also have a dedicated children’s section, boasting a wide selection of books for young ones.
The library is the perfect place to explore and learn something new.
Plan a day trip to Denver
When you need a change of scenery, why not plan a day trip to Denver?
Situated just 30 miles away from Lafayette, Denver is home to many attractions and activities.
From exploring the museums and galleries to sampling craft beers at the breweries in RiNo or enjoying the vibrant nightlife scene on Broadway Street – there’s something for everyone.
A visit to Denver also offers the perfect opportunity to try out some new restaurants and experience the city’s celebrated culinary scene.
You can also take Denver downtown food walking tour and visit the most popular eateries in the Mile High City.
If you want to check out Museum of Art and other adult attractions, then the Denver Citypass is a great option.
Take an adult private customized tour from Lafayette
There are plenty of tours in Lafayette that you can customize to your interests.
Lafayette, Colorado is a vibrant town full of unique events, natural beauty, and mouth-watering local produce.
With attractions such as locally grown peaches, live music, historic buildings, Indian Peaks Wilderness, Waneka Lake Park, and Indian Peaks Golf Course, Lafayette CO is worth planning your next trip.
So why wait? Plan your visit and experience the magic of Lafayette for yourself.
What are your favorite things to do in Lafayette, Colorado? Let us know below.
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