Though often overshadowed by flashy neighboring cities, Dacono has an unexpected abundance of cultural, historical, and natural wonders waiting to be uncovered by residents and visitors. From its frontier roots and agricultural heritage to the breathtaking landscapes surrounding it, Dacono offers an authentic slice of Colorado.
In This Article
Surrounded by sprawling ranch lands and looming peaks, Dacono grew from railroad roots in the late 1800s into a 20th-century farming community. Historic buildings along its main street recall an iconic Western atmosphere. The rural landscape invites scenic drives through the foothills and activities like horseback riding, hiking, and rafting.
Dacono also provides access to acclaimed attractions just beyond town limits. For example, you can easily reach the iconic alpine Peak to Peak Scenic Highway and The Cache La Poudre River’s plunging canyons and whitewater rapids. Dacono also borders the vast Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which has 12,000 acres of forests and cliffs prime for exploration. Keep reading to learn about why this understated gem should be on your travel radar.
TL;DR
- Dacono attractions range from historic ranches to scenic drives on iconic routes like the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.
- Visitors can partake in quintessential Colorado adventures like hiking alpine trails, rafting clear mountain rivers, and exploring remnants of the Old West.
- Dacono's small-town charm and agricultural heritage form a rustic counterpart to the ski resorts and upscale amenities of neighboring mountain towns.
Local Experiences and Culture
Beyond the natural landscapes surrounding it, Dacono’s local charm springs from its ranching roots and close-knit community. With county fairs, harvest festivals and more, the town comes alive with beloved traditions and neighborly hospitality.
Visitors can travel back in time at places like the historic May Natural Grocery Store Museum or the 1901 Dacono Railroad Depot. Area ranches like the Clemens Ranch provide glimpses of frontier life, offering horseback riding and chuckwagon dinners. In addition, Dacono’s central location makes it easy to explore iconic Colorado sites like dinosaur fossil beds and the mountain mining towns of the 1800s.
Throughout the year, the community comes together to celebrate its agricultural heritage. With such festivity woven into the small-town fabric, Dacono delivers a lively and engaging experience for all. Visitors can mingle with locals and immerse themselves in traditions old and new.
Exploring Colorado’s Iconic Routes from Dacono
Dacono’s central Front Range location grants easy access to some of Colorado’s most spectacular alpine drives. Winding roads carve through breathtaking mountain scenery just a short drive from downtown.
The famed Peak to Peak Scenic Highway connects Dacono to the storied towns of Nederland and Estes Park in about an hour’s drive. This 55-mile route climbs from the plains through pine forests and past alpine meadows with sweeping vistas. The more adventurous can continue driving to the wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Another fantastic route is the Cache La Poudre-North Park Scenic Byway following the Cache La Poudre River northwest from Fort Collins through Roosevelt National Forest. Visitors pass rafting put-ins, alpine lakes, and the river’s steep-walled Poudre Canyon on this 80-mile route.
History buffs can traverse Guanella Pass south to the Victorian mining town of Georgetown. Once a wagon route during Colorado’s 19th-century silver boom, it still features historic landmarks like the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
With this trio of national scenic byways snaking through stunning mountain terrain just an hour outside of town, Dacono visitors can explore the essence of alpine Colorado without the crowds of better-known areas.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Dacono provides easy access to classic Colorado sights and activities in all seasons. Spring wildflowers color the foothills, and rivers swell with snowmelt for whitewater rafting. Summer will tempt you with golden prairies and cool mountain forests ideal for hiking and horseback riding. Next, fall foliage sets the mountains ablaze while harvest celebrations fill Dacono’s streets.
As the summer heat fades, September and October bring Dacono alive with seasonal highlights. The Dacono Pumpkin Festival in October lights up the town with carnival rides, games, pie-eating contests, live music, craft vendors, and fall foods. Nearby Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival features Celtic music, athletic events, and whiskey tastings. Not far away, the Estes Park Autumn Gold Festival delivers live entertainment, craft fairs, and elk bugling tours.
When winter weather closes high mountain passes, the Front Range offers a milder climate perfect for venturing outdoors. Holiday light displays like the Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens bring twinkling cheer. Ice skating rinks like Evergreen Lake and downtown Denver’s Skyline Park provide frosty fun. For skiing, world-class resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Winter Park are only a few hours away.
From family-friendly harvest fairs to cozy winter evenings by the fire, Dacono visitors can tailor quintessential Colorado experiences to their tastes no matter the season.
Outdoor Adventures
The boundless open spaces surrounding Dacono make it a great place to experience Colorado’s exquisite natural splendor. With high alpine terrain to rolling prairies, adventures cater to all interests and skill levels.
Hikers can explore over 12,000 acres of forests and rock formations in Golden Gate Canyon State Park right next to downtown Dacono. They can also enjoy wildflower-filled meadows and panoramic vistas along the Peaks Trail stretching across the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park.
From mild whitewater to Class V rapids, the Cache la Poudre River winding through Roosevelt National Forest provides a thrill for rafters and kayakers of all skill levels. Outfitters like Colorado Whitewater offer guided, half-day trips through the Poudre Canyon just over an hour northwest of town.
The area’s rich agricultural lands also lend themselves to biking and horseback riding. Cyclists can cruise over 100 miles of trails interlacing Golden Gate Canyon and neighboring open spaces.
Family and Kid-Friendly Attractions
From hands-on museums to heirloom fruit orchards, Dacono and the surrounding area blend education, adventure, and good old-fashioned family fun. Interactive exhibits reveal facets of Colorado’s frontier history, agriculture, and wildlife that engage the curiosity of children.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary northeast of Dacono spans over 800 acres where rescued bears, tigers, and lions roam vast natural habitats. Longmont’s EcoTarium museum offers over forty interactive exhibits featuring Colorado ecology. Kids can climb a simulated power pole, operate a solar-powered model train, and touch a cloud of water vapor.
Centennial Village Museum in Greeley transports visitors back to Colorado’s 19th-century mining and ranching days. Costumed interpreters bring the Old West to life while kids pan for “gold” and “gems.”
When the kids need to burn off some energy, lakeside parks like Dacono’s Clem Dufour Park provide playgrounds, volleyball courts, and wide open spaces for play.
Accommodations and Dining
Modern conveniences complement Dacono’s rural, small-town ambiance to keep visitors relaxed and refreshed. Modern hotels and eateries intermix with historic buildings downtown to offer fantastic service and classic, contemporary comforts.
The Best Western Plus Dacono Inn and Suites pampers guests with an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness room, and full free breakfast. The staff is eager to offer additional information about Dacono. Downtown’s historic 1901 Dacono Railroad Depot now houses Salty Dog Saloon, where you can order classic pub food like burgers and wings. The Sweetgrass Cafe whips up homemade soups, sandwiches, pies, and other homemade specialties.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
Dacono enjoys four distinct seasons. Summer and fall highlight the area’s natural beauty with sunny skies, moderate temperatures, and brilliant fall foliage. Head to higher elevations in summer to escape the heat. Late spring through early fall bring festivals, fairs, and farmers markets. Winter offers skiing and other outdoor recreational opportunities.
Transportation Tips
Dacono lies in a convenient location approximately thirty miles north of Denver, just east of I-25. Denver International Airport has connections across the globe, and buses and shuttles run to nearby towns like Boulder and Fort Collins.
Top Tips for Your Visit
Rent a car to fully explore the endless backroads and trails winding off the highways. Pack layers, as Colorado weather can see all four seasons in a day! Stop by the Dacono Chamber of Commerce visitor center to discover hidden gems. Their enthusiastic staff have insider tips tailored to your interests. Finally, buy a Discover Pass for access to recreation sites across public lands in Colorado.
Ditch the frenzied crowds in nearby resort towns, and discover the magic in this surprising town!
FAQ About Visiting Dacono
What is there to do in Dacono?
From historic ranches to scenic drives to outdoor recreation, Dacono offers plenty of things to do. Must-see attractions include the May Natural Grocery Store Museum, the 1901 Dacono Railroad Depot, and Clemens Ranch. The town also provides easy access to experiences like hiking Golden Gate Canyon State Park, rafting the Cache la Poudre River, and exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.
When do events like the Dacono Pumpkin Festival happen?
Dacono comes alive with beloved seasonal events. The Dacono Pumpkin Festival lights up the town each October with carnival rides, contests, craft vendors, and fall foods.
What is there to do with kids in Dacono?
From mini golf and arcades to fruit orchards and hands-on history exhibits, Dacono offers many kid-friendly destinations. Top attractions include the Wild Animal Sanctuary, Longmont’s EcoTarium Museum, and the Centennial Village Museum.
Where should I stay when visiting Dacono?
Accommodations range from modern hotels like Dacono’s Best Western Plus to Frederick’s quaint bed and breakfasts. Nearby mountain towns like Nederland also offer scenic options with easy access to attractions like the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Highway.
What is the best way to get to Dacono?
Dacono lies just east of I-25, about thirty miles north of downtown Denver. It enjoys quick highway access and sits about an hour’s drive from Denver International Airport. Shuttle services and buses also connect Dacono to neighboring towns and recreation areas accessible by public transit.
