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Guide to Colorado

Historical sites with outdoor space

Made for those who prefer to absorb the weight of history while walking through open-air environments.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn image 1
Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn image 2
Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn image 3
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Historic mansion built from ruby sandstone offers huge, themed rooms with solid wood furniture and period details. Secluded backyard garden provides a peaceful atmosphere with soothing fountains, ideal for a romantic and quiet stay. Location is walkable to major attractions, blending historic charm with convenient urban access.

Immaculate rooms showcase period details and a historic ambience. The historic architecture remains beautifully preserved throughout.

Back patio offers a beautiful setting with a patio garden that enhances the outdoor dining experience. Breakfast and brunch served here consistently taste delicious.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is delicious, especially on the patio."

"It's comfortable with all the modern comforts you want."

"The patio brunch here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The inn is located just 1.1 miles from the convention center.

2

Free parking is available, making it convenient for guests.

3

The location is walkable to many attractions, including restaurants and parks.

02
Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park image 1

Historic buildings and farmhouses stand along long paved paths with ponds, creating a vintage atmosphere. Quiet and peaceful energy fills the park, offering a remote feel within an urban area. Events feature live music and candlelight, enhancing the relaxing ambiance.

Historic buildings from around the area create a rich, vintage atmosphere. Walking trails and well-organized tours offer a deep dive into Colorado history with a beautiful park setting.

Outdoor events happen in a beautiful park with a covered stage and a historic school house available for rent. Signs outside the museum explain the history of each building.

People are saying

"I found the museum here to be great and free of charge."

"You'll love the vintage buildings and the history behind them."

"You can host a beautiful outdoor event or wedding here."

Good to know

1

The entry fee for the park and museum is free.

2

The park hosts free concerts throughout the summer months.

3

Cider Days festival occurs annually in September with various activities.

03
Cultivar cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop occupies a historic building with antique furniture and a garden patio. Atmosphere stays cozy and quiet, ideal for working or relaxing without hustle. Spacious seating includes comfy chairs and air conditioning for comfort.

Located in the historic Molly Brown Summer property, this spot features a historic building with a relaxing yard outside. The house's history adds a unique atmosphere to the visit.

A lovely patio offers plenty of seating with a garden in the back and a relaxing yard near a historic house. Outdoor areas provide a cute and inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken curry at this cafe; it's astoundingly good."

"The cinnamon rolls here are soft, flakey, and super tasty."

"I loved the cinnamon rolls and delicious lattes."

Good to know

1

Cultivar Cafe offers quality internet, making it a good spot for working.

2

Expect to pay around $5-$10 for lunch items like chicken curry.

3

High tea is available, and it's the cheapest in town.

04
Morrison Natural History Museum image 1
Natural history museum

Small, cozy museum offers hands-on exhibits and a working fossil lab where volunteers extract specimens. Peaceful atmosphere suits families, with a kid-friendly sandbox for digging dinosaur bones outdoors. Displays include local fossils and casts, creating an intimate, educational experience.

Extensive exhibits cover prehistoric Colorado and the Dinosaur Ridge area's fossil history. Knowledgeable guides explain paleontology and local geological history clearly.

An outdoor dig pit lets kids dig up dino bones and try extracting fossils themselves. A shaded sandbox area provides a fun, hands-on experience while enjoying the surrounding scenery.

People are saying

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and make the displays come alive."

"The historical sites here have guides who are incredibly knowledgeable."

"The outdoor dig pit is so fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Tickets include a guided tour from an expert.

2

Regular tours are available at the museum.

3

The museum features actual fossils and allows close-up views of the lab.

05
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center image 1

Visitor center offers stunning views of rock formations and mountains from multiple outdoor terraces and decks. It features interactive exhibits, a small museum, and a theater showing local history and geography. Free shuttle service connects to the main park, and amenities include a coffee shop, water fountains, and e-Bike rentals.

Multiple spots offer photo opportunities and share how the park became free for everyone. The Visitors Center features exhibits and a movie that explain the park's history clearly.

Outdoor spaces include a second-floor terrace and a patio with gorgeous views of red-rock monoliths and the Colorado Mountains. These areas offer great spots for photos and a chance to enjoy nature's beauty.

People are saying

"The views here are truly majestic and stunning."

"You can learn about the area's interesting history at the visitor center."

"The outdoor space offers a magnificent view of the rock formations."

Good to know

1

The park and visitor center are free to visit.

2

The park opens at 5 am, and the visitor center opens at 9 am.

3

There are educational events and guided hikes available regularly.

06
Garden of the Gods Trading Post image 1

Gift shop combines breathtaking scenery with a spacious outdoor patio featuring live music and water features. Atmosphere feels authentic and family friendly, serving as a community hub with a cafe offering unique local treats like bison burgers and coffee-flavored ice cream.

Historic building offers terrific views and a deep sense of connection to the past. It blends historic, tourist items, boutique products, and local art under one roof.

A spacious outdoor patio with beautiful trees offers a peaceful, shaded spot to enjoy meals. The back patio features hand dipped ice cream and serves as a great place for lunch or a bite outdoors.

People are saying

"This Local Spot has beautiful art and jewelry from local artists."

"The outdoor patio is a really nice place to eat lunch."

"It's a place with a rich history and cool historic buildings."

Good to know

1

Buying something at the Trading Post helps fund the park.

2

I should go early because parking can be difficult.

3

They have a wide variety of merchandise, including fresh fudge and a cafe.

07
Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center image 1

Largest dinosaur track site in North America offers scenic ridge views and an uphill blacktop hike. Kids engage with fossil digging sandpit and dinosaur statues for photos. Outdoor areas include shaded patios and picnic tables, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.

150 million years of history unfold through smooth hikes and hourly bus tours with informative guides. The site offers a deep dive into geology and dinosaur excavation, making it a rich experience for all ages.

Real fossils sit exposed in the rocks, creating an outdoor museum feel. A free sandbox lets kids dig for and keep fossils, while picnic tables and a shaded patio offer spots to relax.

People are saying

"The guided tours here are really interesting and informative."

"I loved the great scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the trail."

"You can dig for fossils in the Outdoor Space sandbox and keep one."

Good to know

1

Finding parking can be challenging during peak hours.

2

A shuttle is available for $20 if you prefer not to walk.

3

Bring your own picnic as there are no food services.

08
My Brother's Bar image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Old-school corner bar with historic character and a gritty vibe offers a classic dive bar atmosphere. Outdoor patio features shade from umbrellas and ivy, creating a relaxed setting. Live classical music plays, and no screens are present, enhancing an authentic, no-nonsense mood.

Environment feels historic and welcoming with a classic and rich history. The bar dates back to before the state itself, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

Outdoor space features a back patio seating with fake grass and foliage that creates a cozy vibe. Disco balls add a unique touch to the atmosphere, making it great for conversations.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best Iโ€™ve had in a long time."

"The service here is outstanding and the staff are really sweet."

"The patio is a nice find, especially for dinner outside."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, so consider using public transport.

2

During major sports events, the bar gets very busy, so arrive early.

3

Food is available until late, making it a good late-night option.

09
Rock Rest Lodge image 1
Bar & grill

Eclectic bar with unique decor and a dog-friendly patio offers a laid-back vibe and live music. Pool tables, arcade games, and a dance floor create a lively atmosphere. Known for incredible chicken wings and affordable drinks, it draws a mix of people for games, dancing, and casual dining.

A historic lodge with a cool bar atmosphere offers a glimpse into the past. It stands out as a spot worth visiting for its impressive history near Golden.

The outdoor space features a pet-friendly patio with a great atmosphere. It offers a kid-friendly environment during the day and includes live music.

People are saying

"The bar food here is delicious and affordable with huge portions."

"The patio is dog-friendly and has a great atmosphere."

"This place has some really deep history to investigate."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 beers on Tuesdays after 8 pm.

2

Pint night provides great deals on drinks.

3

Children must leave the lodge by 9 pm.

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