Time for a Get-a-Way?

Are the long hot days of Summer starting to wear you down? Feel like you need some time off from work but can’t afford the time or funds to take a regular vacation?  Then I’ve got the perfect solution for you!

Less than an hour away from Lakewood is historic Idaho Springs. The Chamber of Commerce calls it the best-kept secret in Colorado and I would agree.  It's the perfect get-a-way whether it's just for a day trip or for a weekend away. Once known for mining, this quaint little Victorian town is chock full of things to do. 

For example, if you’re looking for a day trip, there are lots of little craft and antique shops to browse in town.  For lunch or dinner, check out Tommyknocker Brewery or Beau Jo Colorado Style Pizza.  We had a fantastic buffalo burger at the Buffalo Restaurant and Bar.

If you’re the physical type there are plenty of hiking and ATV trails.   For the really ambitious there is Mount Evans, a 14-mile ascent through some of the most beautiful country in Colorado.  They say you can see mountain goats along the road. I have to take their word for that as I would be lucky if I could make 1 mile and as sure as heck couldn’t make 14 miles!

History buffs will enjoy the recently opened Argo Mine. The mine is located in Idaho Springs and the tall red structure can be seen from nearly everywhere in town. Formerly a gold mining and milling property, it later became a Superfund cleanup site. In May, a group of investors and a preservationist opened a tunnel for visitors to see parts of the mine. Now, how’s that for innovation! This is only the first phase of an ambitious plan to increase tourism in Idaho Springs. Also planned are a 160 room hotel, cabins, and a convention center. Way to go, Idaho Springs!

If you have a little more time, stay at the Indian Springs Lodge. The 100-year-old lodge was built at the hot springs from which Idaho Springs gets its name. With time they have added on additional rooms and cabins. Be sure to check out the great photos of the early days in the lobby. Rooms are not fancy with just a bare minimum of amenities but you’re not there for the rooms. If you don’t want to swim in the hot springs or relax in the separate men’s and women's geothermal cave baths, then try the private hot tubs. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting in a hot tub under the stars.

Temperature wise, Idaho Springs is a comfortable high of 80 degrees right now while we are sweltering at 95 to 100 degrees.  Nights dip down to around 58 which is great for sleeping.

So go check it out.  You will feel like you went far away and come back feeling relaxed and ready to take on whatever comes your way.