Central City, Colorado was once an epicenter of the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. Today, remnants of the small town’s frontier past remain alongside modern amenities and experiences. From exploring underground gold mines to hitting the slopes at a nearby ski resort, Central City entices visitors year-round.
In This Article
From backcountry adventures to cultural attractions, memorable experiences await in this Colorado mountain treasure. The town’s rich history intermixes with outdoor recreation, delectable cuisine, and welcoming hospitality around every corner.
TL;DR
- Central City, Colorado is a historic mountain town near Denver that was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush.
- The town provides opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking and skiing along with cultural attractions like museums, tours, and seasonal events.
- Accommodations range from vintage hotels to mountain lodges, with dining featuring elevated versions of classic Colorado cuisine.
A Boomtown of the American West
While modern Central City is a gambling destination with casinos, the town itself is a goldmine when it comes to culture and history. It’s even considered a hidden gem! Central City began as a mining town after major gold discoveries in 1859 brought prospectors flooding into the Colorado Territory. Within a few years, the town became an economic center of the region. Mining eventually declined, and the population dwindled, but the town’s iconic Victorian-era architecture and legacy from the Gold Rush endured.
Now a National Historic Landmark District, Central City offers visitors the chance to step back into the past. Walking tours wind through historic buildings along quaint Main Street, while museums display mining equipment and pioneer artifacts. At the Central City Opera House established in 1878, elaborate melodramas and musicals evoke the arts scene of the 1800s. Just outside of town, old gold mines and mills remain preserved as state historic sites.
Outdoor Adventure in the Rocky Mountains
Surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Continental Divide, Central City provides easy access to world-class hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. Numerous scenic byways and passes like Guanella Pass Scenic Byway and Mount Evans Scenic Byway intersect near the town as well.
In warmer months, families can venture just ten miles up into the mountains to hike parts of the Colorado Trail. Serious mountaineers and backcountry adventurers can attempt longer excursions to summit some of Colorado’s 14ers. Many outfitters and guides are available to lead rafting and kayaking trips along Clear Creek, which winds through the quaint mountain city.
Downhill skiers and snowboarders find plenty of options during the winter months. Loveland Ski Area sits sixteen miles outside of Central City. Arapahoe Basin, Winter Park, Copper Mountain, and Breckenridge Ski Resort are only a bit further, making easy day trips. Backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in the stunning Indian Peaks Wilderness area satisfy those seeking solitude and pristine, untouched powder.
Immersing in Local Culture
While small at just over 1,000 residents, Central City offers visitors numerous opportunities to connect with local culture. Several restaurants source ingredients from Colorado ranches and farms to infuse their dishes with regional flavors. Elk, bison, and trout frequently appear in hearty meals, and the growing number of breweries across the state offer a selection of craft beers.
The Central City Opera House and nearby casinos host concerts and shows attracting big-name talent year-round. Annual events like Victorian Christmas celebrate the town’s unique heritage and charm. Each July, the Central City Flower Festival sees Main Street come to life with thousands of colorful blossoms.
Visiting the Teller House Hotel and other historic accommodations provide a window into the 19th-century way of life. The Teller House Hotel first opened its doors in 1872. Today, rooms in the hotel brim with Victorian antique furnishings. Some suites even boast century-old bath fixtures alongside modern amenities. Guests can try their hand at prospecting and gold panning on guided tours to get a taste of the past.
Seasonal Recreation for All
While winter activities like downhill and cross-country skiing steal the show for many visitors, Central City also offers memorable adventures in spring, summer, and fall.
As wildflowers blanket the mountainsides each spring, scenic drives become popular pastimes. The Lariat Loop, Guanella Pass, and Mount Evans Byways reveal breathtaking vistas and wildlife sightings around every bend. Hikers and mountain bikers can spot herds of bighorn sheep, elk, bears, and more roaming their natural habitat.
Summertime brings opportunities to escape the heat and head for the hills. Miles of trails cater to hikers of all ability levels. Backpackers and climbers challenge themselves on the iconic 14,000-foot peaks of Grays Peak, Torreys Peak, and Mount Bross. For water-based fun, rafting and kayaking Clear Creek provides an adrenaline rush.
Blazing fall foliage makes autumn a prime time to visit Central City and the surrounding mountains. The backdrop of golden aspen groves set against evergreen pines creates stunning scenery. Locals celebrate with Oktoberfest events and festivals. The comfortable daytime temperatures make scenic drives along byways like the Peak to Peak Highway perfect for taking in the seasonal beauty.
Lodging Rich in History
Several hotels in Central City offer not only plush accommodations but also a glimpse into the past. Like the Teller House Hotel, lodging options like the Grand Z Casino Hotel and Johnny Z’s Casino incorporate design elements reminiscent of the town’s earlier days. However, unlike the Teller House Hotel, their full-service spas, heated pools, and contemporary dining spaces provide present-day comforts.
Nearby dude ranches and smaller inns offer a balance of rustic charm and luxury.
Family-Friendly Attractions
For those traveling with kids, Central City offers plenty to keep young ones entertained. Hands-on museums like the Gilpin History Museum and the Central City Opera allow children to try on costumes, explore mining equipment, and interact with educational exhibits. Mining tours take visitors big and small underground to see the equipment and techniques used during the Gold Rush. In certain spots in town, even young children can try panning for gold and gems.
Outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing cater to families too. Easy hikes around Mills Lake and Gray’s Peak allow kids to expend their energy and appreciate the mountain scenery without overdoing it. Catch-and-release fishing for rainbow trout brings excitement without long casts or early mornings.
Several restaurants feature play areas and kids menus to make dining out low-stress for parents. Meanwhile, the Main Street area offers quirky shops stocked with old-fashioned toys and treats. From ice cream parlors to candy stores, there’s no shortage of goodies to enjoy.
FAQ
How do I get to Central City, Colorado?
Central City sits around 35 miles west of Denver and is accessible via I-70 and Highway 6. Many shuttles and tours to the town also depart directly from Denver and Denver International Airport.
When is peak tourist season in Central City?
Summer and fall see the most tourists, with June through September offering ideal weather for outdoor recreation. However, winter travel for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts continues to grow in popularity.
What is the best way to experience the history and culture of Central City?
Walking tours, museum exhibits, and historic accommodations fully immerse guests in the 19th century Gold Rush era. Attending a show at the 130-year-old Central City Opera House also provides a cultural glimpse into the past through music and performance.
Is Central City family-friendly?
Definitely. With its kid-centric museums, easy hiking trails, catch-and-release fishing, and interactive attractions, the town offers plenty of fun for younger visitors. Nearby dude ranches even provide specialized programs and activities for children and teens.
How long should I stay to experience everything Central City offers?
While a full itinerary spans 5-7 days, visitors can still soak up some history and adventure in a long weekend. Focus your 2-3 days on walking tours, museums, and a scenic drive or hike in the mountains.
Are there any ghost towns near Central City?
Yes! The ghost town Nevadaville is up the hill from Central City. The lack of gold and silver led to the town’s death around 1900.
What is a classic saloon in Central City that I shouldn’t miss?
The Gold Coin Saloon is not to be missed on your journey. Opened in 1897, the Gold Coin Saloon is the oldest bar in Central City and is located in a historical building.
