Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Lakewood, CO

  • Published 2022/11/08

Plan your dream vacation in this charming Colorado city where you can indulge in gorgeous natural sceneries, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Lakewood is an outstandingly beautiful city that provides an array of things to do to fill your dream vacation with exciting memories.

Choose from a plethora of parks to have a picnic, go hiking, try exciting outdoor adventures, go on a fishing trip, and see the rich flora and fauna of the region.

This charming city is also an emerging arts mecca with a dedicated district for promoting the arts and the talents of the locals.

From nature trips to art walks to historical excursions, there’s truly something for everyone at Lakewood.

So if you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city soon, read on for the 2o best things to do in Lakewood, Colorado!

Pitch Your Tent at Bear Creek Lake Park

A person riding a bike at Bear Creek Lake Park

Sean Xu / Shutterstock.com

Amp up your nature adventure by pitching your tent and spending a night at Bear Creek Lake Park.

Bear Creek Lake Park spans more than 2,600 acres, offering the perfect camping, hiking, horseback riding, boating, fishing, and windsurfing destination.

This one-stop outdoor destination makes for an idyllic trip that’ll get you closer to nature.

Frozen waters of Bear Creek Lake Park

Sean Xu / Shutterstock.com

Spend your day hiking through the trails, fishing in the lake, going horseback riding, or trying windsurfing.

And end the day huddled around a bonfire under the starry night skies to experience the most out of your nature trip.

Whether you’re visiting Bear Creek Lake Park for a day trip or camping out, you’ll surely enjoy tons of outdoor activities in this expansive park.

A pond at Bear Creek Lake Park

Sean Xu / Shutterstock.com

Hike the Trails of William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain

Scenic view of William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain

Chris Light, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A trip to Lakewood calls for an exciting nature trip where you can hike through a network of multi-use trails and encounter native wildlife.

You can access the William F Hayden Park on Green Mountain via South Rooney Road.

This expansive park spans up to more than 2,400 acres of open space, and it’s home to the rich flora and fauna of the region.

Aerial view of the William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain

Thomson200, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re looking for a challenging hike or you prefer a more laid-back adventure, there are a lot of trail options for you.

See the breathtaking mountain vistas and the stunning views of the city skyline once you conquer the steep hike going to the peak of Green Mountain.

Make sure to pack your outdoor essentials, stretch your legs, and get ready for an exciting nature adventure at William F Hayden Park.

See the Fascinating Displays of Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys

Are you looking to experience something new and unique?

Then, visit the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys!

This quaint museum was founded in 1981 dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of visual arts through miniatures, dolls, and toys.

The museum is located in Kiplin Street housed in a 19th-century property.

The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys showcase a collection of antique and collectible dolls, dollhouses, vintage toys, and more!

Delight yourself in the fascinating pieces of history and take your time looking at the teeny-tiny details of the exhibit.

Have a Fun-Filled Day at Kendrick Lake Park

A rabbit at Kendrick Lake Park

William Dillingham / Shutterstock.com

If you want to spend some time outdoors without straying too far away from the metro area, then you should visit Kendrick Lake Park.

Located in West Jewell Avenue is a gem in Lakewood where you can enjoy picnicking, fishing, sightseeing, and strolling.

Trees near the Kendrick Lake

William Dillingham / Shutterstock.com

Kendrick Park features one of the most admired xeric gardens where you can appreciate the vibrant colors of the plants.

The park also offers the best picnic area with grills if you want to have a BBQ party with the family.

Walking path at Kendrick Lake Park

William Dillingham / Shutterstock.com

You can cast your lines and go fishing in the 31-acre reservoir of the park, let the youngsters play in the playground, have a casual stroll around the park, or just read a good book under the shade.

This city park is a must-visit if you want to take a breather from your daily cares and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kendrick Lake Park.

Flowers at Kendrick Lake Park

William Dillingham / Shutterstock.com

Take the Pins Down at Holiday Bowling and Billiards

Nothing beats the classic family fun experience spent taking down the pins and having a friendly competition at the bowling alley.

At Holiday Lanes, you can bowl for fun, have a fun night out with friends, and enjoy classic grubs.

This family fun center is located in West Colfax Avenue, a great indoor space offering endless fun for all ages!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bowler, you’ll surely have a memorable time taking down the pins and keeping score.

Holiday Lanes also offers eight billiard tables so you can play pool and have more fun on your next night out.

Holiday Lanes is a must-visit if you’re looking for a fun way to kill some time if the weather gets bad on your trip to Lakewood.

Join Local Events and Learn about Local History at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park

Aerial view of Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park

Arina P Habich / Shutterstock.com

Nestled in the heart of Lakewood is the Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park that serves as a gateway for local festivities.

This 20th-century history park features ten historic structures and a museum that showcases the rich heritage of Lakewood through historical exhibits and interactive displays.

Wooden footbridge at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park

Gennady Zakharin / Shutterstock.com

Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park also features a traditional turf park, play area, paved trails, and an amphitheater.

This city park is the one-stop destination if you want to enjoy some time outdoors and learn about history at the same time.

Join vibrant festivities, watch live concerts, take a brisk walk around the park, and relax on a bench with an overlooking view of the lake.

A bench at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park

Gennady Zakharin / Shutterstock.com

Go on an Art Walk at 40 West Arts District

Do you appreciate seeing tons of vibrant colors painted on the walls with intricate details?

Then head out for an art walk at 40 West Arts along Lakewood’s historic West Colfax Avenue.

This nonprofit, state-certified creative district promotes and supports local artists to cultivate the importance of the arts.

Get a glimpse of Lakewood’s vibrant artistic community and culture by supporting this wonderful organization.

Aside from going on an art walk, you can also join the fun programs to amp up your art experience.

Go Picnicking at Bear Creek Greenbelt Park

Geese at Bear Creek Greenbelt Park

Sean Xu / Shutterstock.com

If you love going out on picnics and heading out on a fishing trip, then you’ll love a trip to Bear Creek Greenbelt Park!

Located at S Estes Street is this 379-acre preserve that features wetlands, fishing ponds, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.

The Bear Creek Greenbelt Park offers endless trail connections where you can hike and bike to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of nature.

There are dedicated picnic areas with bbq grills in the park so you can enjoy a picnic with the stunning view of the glistening waters.

Whether you want to explore the offbeat path of the park or enjoy a quiet time by the lake, the Bear Creek Greenbelt Park is the place to go!

Get Your Grooves on at the Roller City

Roller skating is making a comeback, so join in the fun and have a great time at the Roller City!

Roller City is located in W Alameda Avenue, where you can dance, laugh, and go rolling to shake off your daily stresses.

Enjoy the live music playing in the background, have fun with the dancing disco lights, and skate away at the rinks of Roller City.

This roller skating center has a snack bar to get some grubs and a small arcade area to enjoy some games while taking a break.

Roller skating is a classic family fun staple that will truly delight the young and the young at heart!

Support Local Artists at Lakewood Cultural Center

Exterior of the Lakewood Cultural Center

Xnatedawgx, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The gateway to immersing in a city’s culture is appreciating its artistic offerings.

So make sure to visit the Lakewood Cultural Center to support the talented locals of Lakewood.

Watch live theatrical and music performances, see art displays, and join art classes.

Lakewood Cultural Center may be a small venue compared to others, but it boasts the fantastic artistry in the community.

A visit to Lakewood Cultural Center is truly fascinating because you can channel your artistic skills.

Test Your Critical Thinking Skills at Conundrum Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for a bit of a thrill that would require you to test your abilities, then you should step into adventure at Conundrum Escape Rooms.

This escape room center is located in Kipling Street in Colorado, offering unique escape games.

Get that exciting rush of racing against time and immersing yourself in an interesting story in an escape room.

Look for clues, solve problems, decode riddles, and work as a team with your friends and family.

Don’t miss out on the thrilling experience and book your visit at Conundrum Escape Rooms.

Cool Off with a Craft Beer at Great Frontier Brewing Company

If you’re looking for a place where you can chill out with a cold beer at hand, then check out the Great Frontier Brewing Company.

This brewery is located in South Oak Street, offering a selection of beers, tasty grubs, and, of course, a fun time.

The Great Frontier Brewing Company is the go-to place, whether you’re looking for something dark to light, malty to hoppy.

Have a mug of beer in their taproom with a view of their in-house brewing process, and don’t forget to pair your drink with a tasty grub.

This quaint brewery makes for a quick stop if you’re searching for a chill, laid-back environment.

Shop and Dine at Belmar Downtown District

Street light on the road of Belmar Downtown District

JW_PNW / Shutterstock.com

A trip to Lakewood won’t be complete without spending some time shopping and dining at the community hub of the charming city.

Downtown Lakewood, also known as Belmar, is the gateway for all your shopping needs—whether you’re searching for something unique or you want to shop for trendy items, you’ll surely find whatever you need!

Belmar covers 22 square city blocks brimming with restaurants, cozy coffee shops, galleries, and boutiques.

People ice skating at Belmar Downtown District

JW_PNW / Shutterstock.com

This community hub boasts the welcoming atmosphere of an old town village center, which is perfect if you want to spend some time feeling like a movie star while roaming around the streets.

For art and music enthusiasts, you’ll find all the fun at Belmar, an emerging arts mecca of sorts.

Get acquainted with the tight-knit community of Lakewood by spending a day strolling through Belmar!

Get Active at Addenbrooke Park

If you’re looking for a place where you can get active and play sports but still enjoy the vibrant outdoors of Lakewood, then you should head out to Addenbrooke Park.

This charming park is located in South Kipling Parkway, offering plenty of amenities for your fitness and recreation needs.

The park features a paved walking trail and tons of workout equipment, perfect if you want to go out on a jog and get some exercise.

Addenbrooke Park is also a go-to destination if you want to have a picnic or have youngsters who want to enjoy an expansive play area.

The park is set near a beautiful lake surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, making for an idyllic day at the park.

Tee Off at The Homestead Golf Course

Do you want to hit the links and tee off?

If so, you should book a tee time at The Homestead Golf Course!

This 18-hole golf course is located in W Hampden Avenue, a go-to destination for golf enthusiasts visiting Colorado.

The links-style course features four sets of tees and two nine-hole personalities, which is perfect if you’re looking for a bit of challenge.

The Homestead Golf Course also offers practice facilities and putting greens to get your game on before starting the course.

After your tee time, don’t forget to head out to the clubhouse to cool off with a drink and a filling snack.

Join an Aerobic Class at Carmody Recreation Center

The Carmody Recreation Center on Kipling Street is a one-stop shop for health and fitness.

You may participate in one of the many aerobic programs offered here daily or use the gym and weight room to improve your fitness and muscular development.

Swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor, are available for exercise and recreation.

The Splash Pad is great for kids. Enjoy pickleball, basketball, water aerobics lessons, and many more in the comfort of the fully air-conditioned indoor recreation complex.

You may schedule some of the events in advance online or make a same-day reservation via phone.

See Iconic Vehicles at Rodz & Bodz Movie Car Museum & Rentals

More than a hundred vehicles from the silver screen are on display and available for rent at Rodz & Bodz Movie Car Museum/Rentals.

Here you may see rare collectibles like the A-Team van, Scooby-Mystery Doo’s Machine, and other limited edition vehicles.

In their museum, Rodz and Bodz Movie Car Museum/Rentals, they have various automobiles made famous on screen.

Among them are the ghostbuster, a genuine 1940s Harley Davidson motorcycle, the Batmobile monster truck, and many more one-of-a-kind classics and hot rods.

Those interested in renting a movie vehicle for a party, commercial, or other events can do so via Rodz & Bodz Movie Car Museum/Rentals.

Gaze at the Local Works at Valkarie Gallery & Studio

In 2013, Karrie York and Valerie Savarie followed their passions and opened Valkarie Gallery & Studio.

This gallery aims to provide a welcoming space for artists to work and display their creations.

Catch the stunning works by local artists such as Kim Anderson, Aria Fawn, Dorothy DePaulo, Josh Davy, and more at Valkarie Gallery & Studio.

Valkarie Gallery and Studio showcases photography, jewelry, painting, book sculpture, sketching, and more by local and visiting artists.

Don’t miss the chance to see the work of local artists at events hosted by Valkarie Gallery & Studio.

Shop ’til You Drop at Colorado Mills

Welcome sign of Colorado Mills

Jeffrey Beall, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Check out Colorado Mills if you are in the mood for some fantastic retail therapy in the city.

You may find over 135 stores in Colorado Mills, with just 10 being long-term tenants.

It features a wide variety of items and services at competitive rates in this over-a-million-square-foot shopping center.

Its retailers include United Artists Theater & Imax, Jumpstreet, Eddie Bauer, Super Target, and many more.

The complex also features several restaurants and entertainment venues, including Cinnabon and Yard House.

Catch Your Favorite Sporting Games at The Cove Sports Bar

If you’re looking for a great time in Lakewood, Colorado, you should add a stop at The Cove Sports Bar.

Customers may unwind in style here thanks to its lovely décor, which features a casual atmosphere, plush seating, and plenty of tables.

Customers of this chill bar may choose from a large selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

The building features large windows reaching the ceiling and plenty of room for everyone to sit comfortably.

As an added incentive, it often hosts events like “Free Cheese Burger Nights,” “Thirsty Thursday,” and “Happy Hour” to keep consumers coming back.

Final Thoughts

The city of Lakewood is brimming with exciting outdoor adventures, classic family entertainment centers, and unique experiences that’ll surely delight you with new memories.

Make sure to bookmark this list before you start planning your trip to the vibrant city of Lakewood, Colorado.

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