Key Takeaways:
- Lakewood, Colorado offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
- Whether you’re hiking through scenic parks, enjoying local arts, or attending live performances, Lakewood has something for everyone.
- Use Planmyweekend.ai to find free events happening in Lakewood this weekend, making your visit even more exciting.
Table of Contents
- Visit the Bear Creek Lake Park
- Explore the Lakewood Cultural Center
- Discover the William Frederick Hayden Park
- Experience Live Music at the Lakewood Cultural Center
- Spend a Day at the Belmar Shopping District
- Hike at the Green Mountain Park
- Visit the Colorado Mills Mall
- Attend the Lakewood Heritage Festival
- Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park
- Enjoy a Day at the Lakewood Farmers Market
Lakewood, Colorado, located just outside of Denver, is a vibrant city that offers visitors a perfect blend of outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and family-friendly activities. Known for its picturesque parks, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, Lakewood is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city also boasts a rich history, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of opportunities to engage with local culture. Whether you’re visiting to enjoy the scenic beauty or to explore the local attractions, Lakewood has something to offer all year long.
1. Visit the Bear Creek Lake Park
Bear Creek Lake Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Lakewood. With over 2,500 acres of land, this park offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park features a large, tranquil lake where visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing, making it an ideal spot for water activities. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore the trails, or have a family picnic, Bear Creek Lake Park offers an expansive and peaceful environment to enjoy nature.
In addition to its recreational offerings, the park also has designated wildlife areas, making it an excellent location for birdwatching and photography. The scenic surroundings, with stunning views of the foothills and the lake, provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Bear Creek Lake Park offers a perfect escape into the great outdoors in Lakewood.
2. Explore the Lakewood Cultural Center
The Lakewood Cultural Center is a hub of artistic and cultural events, offering a variety of performances, exhibits, and educational programs throughout the year. This multi-purpose venue hosts live theater, music concerts, art exhibitions, and film screenings, making it an excellent destination for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. The center also provides community classes and workshops in the arts, offering something for individuals of all ages to participate in.
In addition to its cultural programming, the center is home to a gallery that showcases works by local and regional artists. Visitors can explore the diverse exhibits, which range from visual arts to sculptures and photography. The Lakewood Cultural Center is a great spot to immerse yourself in the local arts scene while enjoying a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where creativity thrives, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting the city.
3. Discover the William Frederick Hayden Park
William Frederick Hayden Park offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in Lakewood, with stunning views of the surrounding area and the Rocky Mountains. The park spans over 400 acres and features several trails of varying difficulty, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a short, leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, Hayden Park provides plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
The park also offers stunning viewpoints, perfect for photography, and has open spaces for picnicking, making it a great location for a relaxing day out. The diverse landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and meadows, make this park a beautiful and peaceful retreat. If you’re an avid hiker or just want to enjoy the tranquility of nature, William Frederick Hayden Park is a must-visit in Lakewood.
4. Experience Live Music at the Lakewood Cultural Center
The Lakewood Cultural Center is not just a place for visual arts but also a premier venue for live music performances. Whether you’re into jazz, classical, rock, or folk, the cultural center hosts a variety of musical acts throughout the year, offering something for every musical taste. The acoustics of the theater and intimate setting create an ideal atmosphere for enjoying live performances, making it one of the best places to catch local talent in Lakewood.
In addition to its regular performances, the center also hosts seasonal festivals and music events, bringing together musicians and music lovers from across the region. The Lakewood Cultural Center’s dedication to supporting live music helps foster a thriving arts community and provides an engaging cultural experience for visitors. If you love live music and are visiting Lakewood, be sure to check out the performances at the Lakewood Cultural Center.
5. Spend a Day at the Belmar Shopping District
The Belmar Shopping District is Lakewood’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. With a mix of national retailers, local boutiques, and specialty shops, Belmar offers a diverse shopping experience for everyone. The pedestrian-friendly layout of the district makes it easy to stroll from one store to the next, while the wide range of dining options ensures there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, Belmar is a great spot to spend a day.
In addition to shopping and dining, Belmar also hosts seasonal events and live entertainment, making it a lively hub in Lakewood. From art walks to outdoor movie nights, there’s always something happening at Belmar to keep visitors engaged and entertained. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or just relax in a vibrant setting, Belmar Shopping District offers an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
6. Hike at the Green Mountain Park
Green Mountain Park is a beautiful, 2,400-acre open space that offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of Lakewood. The park features a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that range from easy to moderate in difficulty. These trails wind through the park’s diverse landscape, which includes wooded areas, grassy meadows, and rocky outcrops, providing a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking to the top of the mountain for panoramic views or exploring the park’s scenic surroundings, Green Mountain is a great place to connect with nature.
In addition to hiking and biking, Green Mountain Park is a popular spot for wildlife watching and photography. The park is home to a variety of local wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. With its breathtaking views and variety of outdoor activities, Green Mountain Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers looking for an immersive outdoor experience in Lakewood.
7. Visit the Colorado Mills Mall
The Colorado Mills Mall is one of Lakewood’s most popular shopping destinations, offering a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment. This large shopping center features major retail chains, outlet stores, and specialty shops, making it a great place to find everything from fashion to home goods. Whether you’re looking to score a deal at an outlet store or enjoy a casual meal, the mall offers plenty of options for a day of shopping and dining.
In addition to shopping and dining, the Colorado Mills Mall features an IMAX theater, making it a perfect spot for catching the latest blockbuster. The mall also hosts events and seasonal activities throughout the year, providing additional entertainment options for visitors. Whether you’re visiting for a shopping spree, a movie night, or simply to enjoy a meal, Colorado Mills Mall has something for everyone.
8. Attend the Lakewood Heritage Festival
The Lakewood Heritage Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated events, celebrating the local culture, history, and community spirit. Held annually, this festival features live music, food trucks, craft vendors, and cultural performances that highlight the diverse fabric of Lakewood. The festival brings together locals and visitors alike to enjoy a day of family-friendly activities, from face painting and games to live entertainment and dance performances. It’s a fantastic way to experience the best of Lakewood’s community spirit and cultural richness.
In addition to the performances and vendors, the festival also offers educational opportunities, including exhibits and historical displays that showcase Lakewood’s heritage. It’s a perfect way for families and individuals of all ages to learn more about the city’s past while enjoying a day of fun and celebration. If you’re in Lakewood during the Heritage Festival, don’t miss out on this exciting community event.
9. Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park
Located just a short drive from Lakewood, the Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park offers over 350 miles of hiking trails that take visitors through some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in Colorado. Whether you’re hiking to alpine lakes, enjoying scenic drives, or spotting wildlife, the park provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.
Rocky Mountain National Park also offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. With its stunning vistas, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, the park is one of the best places to explore Colorado’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, or simply take in the breathtaking views, the Rocky Mountain National Park offers something for everyone.
10. Enjoy a Day at the Lakewood Farmers Market
The Lakewood Farmers Market is a fantastic way to experience the local food scene while supporting Colorado’s farmers and artisans. Open during the summer and fall months, the market offers a wide selection of fresh, locally grown produce, meats, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Visitors can browse through the stalls, picking up fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, and unique local products. It’s a great place to shop for healthy ingredients while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
In addition to its food offerings, the Lakewood Farmers Market also features live music and community events, making it a lively and fun place to visit. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients, a unique gift, or simply a relaxing afternoon, the farmers market provides a wonderful local experience. It’s a great spot to spend a Saturday morning in Lakewood while supporting local businesses.
What to do if you have kids?
Lakewood is a great place for families, offering a wide variety of activities that kids will enjoy. For outdoor fun, Bear Creek Lake Park offers plenty of space to explore, with hiking trails, water activities, and picnic areas. The Green Mountain Park also provides ample opportunities for children to enjoy nature through hiking and wildlife observation. For a more cultural experience, the Lakewood Cultural Center often has family-friendly performances and arts events. The Lakewood Farmers Market is another fun outing for kids, offering live music and a chance to explore fresh, local produce. With so many outdoor and indoor activities, Lakewood is a fantastic city for family adventures.
Where can I find free events in Lakewood, Colorado taking place this weekend?
If you’re looking for free events in Lakewood, Colorado, Planmyweekend.ai is an excellent resource for discovering the best local happenings. The tool helps you find free events taking place around the city, from outdoor concerts and farmers markets to art exhibitions and community festivals. Whether you’re visiting Lakewood for a weekend getaway or looking for something fun to do with friends and family, Planmyweekend.ai makes it easy to discover exciting and free events happening nearby. It’s the perfect way to explore the city and make the most of your time in Lakewood.
Final Thoughts
Lakewood, Colorado offers a perfect mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and family-friendly fun, making it an ideal destination for visitors year-round. From hiking in scenic parks and exploring the Rocky Mountains to attending live performances and enjoying local food markets, Lakewood has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture lover, or just looking for a fun family adventure, Lakewood’s diverse attractions will leave you with unforgettable memories. Plan your trip today and explore all the exciting things Lakewood has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai