Things To Do
in Lakewood
Lakewood, Colorado sits just west of Denver in the foothills of the Rockies. It blends outdoor recreation with a growing cultural scene and easy access to urban amenities. The Belmar district offers shopping, dining, and events, while numerous parks provide trails and picnicking.
With quick highway and transit connections, Lakewood serves as a convenient base for exploring the Denver metro area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the scenic trails of Lakewood Park, where you can enjoy views of the lake and the lush greenery. The sunlight filters through the trees, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for meditation or reflection. As you stroll, keep an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful seasonal blooms.
After a leisurely morning, grab lunch at a lakeside café and indulge in locally sourced dishes that showcase the area's culinary talent. Post-lunch, rent a kayak or paddleboard to get out on the water and experience the park from a different perspective. This active afternoon will certainly invigorate your spirit as you paddle through the serene waves.
As the sun begins to set, head to the beach area and enjoy a picturesque view while you relax on the sand. Consider having a picnic dinner or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as the day winds down. Finish your evening with a stroll along the shore, watching the sky transition from blue to vibrant hues of orange and purple.
Kick off your morning with a hike to the iconic Solstice Steps, a unique piece of public art combined with nature trails. The climb offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding landscape, making it a rewarding start to the day. Bring your camera; the perspective from the top is ideal for capturing photographs.
After soaking in the views, enjoy an afternoon lunch at a nearby bistro known for its delicious sandwiches and refreshing salads. Post-lunch, explore the trails that wind around the steps, where you can appreciate the local flora and fauna that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem. Consider joining a guided nature walk if available, to learn more about the area’s history and biodiversity.
As twilight approaches, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset from the Solstice Steps or a nearby viewpoint. The city lights begin to twinkle, offering a contrasting backdrop to the fading natural light. Consider an outdoor dining experience at one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy flavorful dishes under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Denver metro amenities and outdoor recreation
- Walkable Belmar district and parks
- Friendly, family-friendly neighborhoods
- Good value for suburban Colorado living
- Fewer high-end nightlife venues compared to downtown Denver
- Traffic and parking can be busy near Belmar
- Winter driving conditions can be challenging
- Sprawl may feel car-dependent in some areas
Places to Visit in Lakewood
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively pedestrian-friendly area with architecture, fountains, and street activity—great for candid and architectural shots.
Outdoor sculpture gardens and retro exhibits provide varied textures and vintage cars and signage for photography.
Panoramic views of the metro area and the foothills, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Waterfront scenes, boats, and reflections, with trees and open skies for wide-angle shots.
Public art pieces and murals along Lakewood’s streets—ideal for urban photography.
Food in Lakewood
Lakewood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty pork green chili common in Denver metro diners.
Must-Try!
Traditional tamales from local taquerias popular in Belmar and Old Towne Lakewood.
Slow-smoked brisket in tortillas with onions and cilantro at local BBQ spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, bread, pastries, and prepared foods.
A rotating lineup of food trucks and stalls near the Belmar district, sampling Mexican, Asian, and American bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress is casual in most venues; greet with a friendly hello and queue politely; tipping is appreciated in service industries.
Safety
Tipping in Lakewood
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, leave 15-20% at restaurants; round up for smaller cafes; tip for takeout where service is limited.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) also common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; great for outdoor activities and long daylight hours.
Cooling temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for hikes and outdoor photography.
Cold with occasional snow; urban attractions stay accessible, but plan for variable driving conditions.
Mild temperatures and blooming plants; frequent regional rain showers.
Lakewood at Night
Hiking in Lakewood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with sweeping city and foothill views.
Steep but rewarding views over the Denver area from the foothills.
Scenic trail through woods with seasonal wildlife near Bear Creek Lake Park.
Airports
How to reach Lakewood by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-35 miles from Lakewood; accessible by I-70 and RTD transit.
Public/general aviation airport in Broomfield; serves general aviation and flight training within a reasonable drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children populate neighborhoods around Belmar and the Bear Creek neighborhood.
Commuters and remote workers are drawn to the Denver metro with access to major employers.
Proximity to colleges and community resources brings a mix of students and instructors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Denver-area teams and college programs generate strong local fan interest.
NBA games in the metro area draw large crowds; casual pickup games are common in parks.
Outdoor recreation is deeply popular given the foothills and mountains nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lakewood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lakewood restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burritos, salads, veggie bowls, and customizable entrees; ask for no meat stock in soups and sauces.