Gold Beer and the Rockies: Audio Walking Tour of Golden's Past

Denver , United States

Gold Beer and the Rockies: Audio Walking Tour of Golden's Past

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Golden is where frontier dreams, engineering innovation, and brewing history converge in Colorado’s scenic foothills. On this self-guided audio walking tour, you’ll hear about the town’s gold rush beginnings, and how it became home to a world-renowned engineering university. You’ll also find out the story behind the iconic Coors Brewery complex – the largest single-site brewery in the world. You’ll walk along Washington Avenue under the iconic “Welcome to Golden” arch, and explore the Golden History Park with its authentic pioneer-era buildings that were relocated from a nearby ranch. Along the way, you’ll discover how Golden briefly served as the territorial capital, and see the Colorado School of Mines campus with its famous “M” on the mountainside. The tour ends along the peaceful Clear Creek Trail, where kayakers and nature lovers now enjoy the same waters that once drove the town’s economy.

Available options

Gold Beer and the Rockies: Audio Walking Tour of Golden's Past

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

App for Android and iOS

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Start your journey at this visitor center near Clear Creek, where gold prospectors first discovered fine gold flakes in 1859. Learn how this discovery transformed a quiet mountain valley into a bustling frontier town.

Stroll along this peaceful riverside path where kayakers and nature lovers now enjoy the same waters that once drove Golden's economy. Experience the beautiful convergence of outdoor recreation and frontier history in Colorado's scenic foothills.

Explore authentic pioneer-era buildings that were relocated from a nearby ranch to preserve Golden's heritage. Walk through structures that bring the town's gold rush past to life with period details and furnishings.

Pass beneath the iconic "Welcome to Golden" arch as you walk along Washington Avenue through the heart of this historic town. Discover lovingly preserved Victorian and Craftsman homes, many built with bricks salvaged from downtown fires.

Visit this historic temperance-supporting boarding house that operated for over a century before becoming an art center. Marvel at how this 1867 building symbolises Golden's evolution from frontier hospitality to creative community hub.

Admire how Golden transformed a 1872 Presbyterian church into a thriving center for contemporary art. Experience the town's creative spirit in this beautifully preserved historic building.

See the campus of this world-renowned engineering university with its famous "M" carved into the mountainside. Discover how Golden evolved from mining camp to become a center of scientific innovation and education.

Marvel at the largest single-site brewery in the world, founded by German immigrant Adolph Coors. Learn how Coors chose Golden not for its gold, but for its pure water perfect for brewing.

Stand where prospectors first retrieved gold flakes in 1859, launching Golden's transformation from wilderness to territorial capital. Experience the natural beauty of the waterway that sparked Colorado's gold rush dreams.

Walk through the commercial heart of Golden lined with buildings that reveal the town's resilience through booms and busts. Enjoy the architectural details that tell stories of mining prosperity, devastating fires, and determined rebuilding.

Explore exhibits that trace Golden's journey from frontier outpost to modern mountain town. Discover how the community preserved its pioneer spirit while embracing innovation and creativity.

Stroll past beautifully maintained historic homes that showcase Golden's architectural heritage. Admire the craftsmanship and character of residences built during the town's prosperous mining and brewing eras.Retry

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts near the Golden Visitors Center.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, and thriving arts scene, Denver offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city's high altitude and sunny climate make it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.

Top Attractions

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a unique outdoor concert venue nestled in stunning red rock formations. It's a must-visit for music lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Nature/Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to enter the park, concert ticket prices vary

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free for Denver residents, $13-$20 for non-residents

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a diverse collection of plants and beautiful landscapes.

Nature 1-2 hours $9.50-$12.50

Union Station

Union Station is a historic landmark and transportation hub in downtown Denver. It features beautiful architecture, dining, shopping, and a bustling public space.

Architecture/Transportation Hub 1-2 hours Free to explore

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city, featuring over 4,000 animals and a commitment to conservation and education.

Zoo 2-4 hours $21-$26

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green Chile

A spicy sauce made from green chiles, often served over burritos, enchiladas, or other Mexican dishes. Denver's green chile is a regional specialty and a must-try for visitors.

Main Dish Contains dairy (cheese) and can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bison

Bison is a lean, flavorful meat that is often served as steaks, burgers, or in stews. Denver is known for its bison dishes, which are a unique and delicious local specialty.

Main Dish High in protein and low in fat, can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions

Rocky Mountain Oysters

A regional delicacy made from deep-fried bull testicles, often served with a side of sauce. This dish is a unique and adventurous option for visitors looking to try something new.

Appetizer Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Palizzi's Famous Hot Chicken Sandwich

A spicy chicken sandwich that has become a local favorite. The sandwich is made with crispy fried chicken, spicy sauce, and served on a toasted bun with lettuce and pickles.

Main Dish Contains gluten and can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rock climbing Whitewater rafting Skiing and snowboarding Spa treatments Yoga classes Picnicking in the park

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Denver, offering warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this time.

18-32°C 64-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Denver is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any city, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services

Getting there

By air

Denver International Airport • 25 miles (40 km) from city center

By train

Denver Union Station

By bus

Denver Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The RTD Light Rail system is efficient and covers most of the city and nearby suburbs. It includes the A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

LoDo (Lower Downtown) RiNo (River North Art District) Capitol Hill Highlands LoHi (Lower Highlands)

Day trips

Rocky Mountain National Park

75 miles (120 km) from Denver • Full day or overnight

Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning mountain scenery, wildlife viewing, and numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.

Boulder

25 miles (40 km) from Denver • Half day or full day

Boulder is a charming college town located at the foot of the Flatirons, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and diverse dining options.

Golden

15 miles (24 km) from Denver • Half day or full day

Golden is a historic town located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, historical attractions, and local breweries.

Festivals

Great American Beer Festival • Late September Denver Arts Week • Early November National Western Stock Show • Mid-January

Pro tips

Visit the Denver Union Station for a unique and historic experience, including dining, shopping, and public events
Explore the city's vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, galleries, and cultural festivals
Take advantage of the city's numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby Rocky Mountains
Try local specialties, such as green chile, bison, and craft beer
Be mindful of the city's high altitude and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy on your first day