Top Five Popular Attractions: Centennial to Arvada, Colorado

Are you embarking on a road trip from Centennial to Arvada, Colorado? This route through stunning mountain landscapes and picturesque towns offers plenty of attractions to break up your drive. Whether you're a history buff, thrill-seeker, or nature lover, this list of the top five places to see on the way has something for everyone.

The Halfway Point: Morrison, CO

About halfway between Centennial and Arvada lies the charming town of Morrison, Colorado. Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, Morrison boasts red sandstone cliffs, hiking trails, and dinosaur fossils. Take a stroll through the quaint downtown area, lined with shops and restaurants. The town is known for its music scene and is home to the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a natural venue with stunning views of the city and mountains. Be sure to check the events calendar and catch a concert or movie under the stars.

Top Five Places to See List

1. Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave: Learn about the life and legacy of one of America's most famous western frontiersmen at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. Located in Golden, Colorado, just a short detour off the main route, this museum houses over 87,000 artifacts and personal effects of Buffalo Bill, including his Wild West show memorabilia. Visitors can also pay their respects at his gravesite, located on nearby Lookout Mountain. The museum is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in the wild west.

2. Mount Evans Scenic Byway: Looking for a thrilling adventure? Head up the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America that takes you to the top of Mount Evans. With stunning views of the Rockies and snow-capped peaks, this 28-mile drive is not for the faint of heart. Along the way, you'll pass through three different ecosystems and see wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats. At the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

3. Colorado Railroad Museum: Located in Golden, Colorado, the Colorado Railroad Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. The museum features over 100 narrow and standard gauge steam engines, cabooses, and passenger cars from the 1800s and early 1900s. Exhibits showcase the history of the railroad in Colorado, including the construction of the transcontinental railroad and mining. Discover what life was like on the rails with interactive exhibits and a working model train layout.

4. Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge: Get back to nature at the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge, located just south of Arvada. This former nuclear weapons production site has been transformed into a natural paradise with over 5,000 acres of protected land. Visitors can explore hiking trails, birdwatch, and learn about the flora and fauna of the area. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including prairie dogs, elk, and coyotes. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center to learn about the history of the area and the ongoing work to protect it.

5. Olde Town Arvada: End your trip with a visit to the charming Olde Town Arvada. This pedestrian-friendly area is lined with quaint shops and eateries, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Stop by the Arvada Flour Mill Museum to learn about the town's flour mill industry or catch a show at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including farmers markets and outdoor concerts, making it a lively destination for all ages.

Best Route for This Trip

To see all these top attractions, follow the I-70 W route from Centennial to Morrison, then head north on Highway 93 to Golden to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, the Colorado Railroad Museum, and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. From there, continue north on Highway 93 to the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge and finish your trip in the quaint Olde Town Arvada. With these stops, you'll have a memorable road trip filled with stunning vistas, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures.