Slow Down and Savor the Magic in Lyons

Looking for a spot to kick back and escape the crowds? Don’t miss the chance to slow down and stay in Lyons, Colorado. This hip and historic town tucked in the foothills has lots to see and do while still being just 40 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park’s Fall River Entrance.

It’s easy to quickly get on board with the small-town vibe. As Kim Mitchell, the Town of Lyons director of community programs and relations, puts it, the town has the feel of a friendly neighborhood front porch—it’s the kind of place that invites you to put up your feet, relax and stay awhile.

Stay Close to Rocky Mountain National Park

Plan an overnight stay at A-Lodge, located right along Main Street. This mid-century modern spot offers a mix of room options no matter who you’re traveling with. Even if you aren’t spending the night, stop by The Rock Garden on the lodge’s east side for a drink in the evening. This lively outdoor patio hosts a bevy of local food trucks and all sorts of fun events—on any given night you can enjoy live music, watch an adventure film screening or gather with the locals to catch the game on TV over drinks.

Another great spot to basecamp is WeeCasa Tiny House Resort. Located along the beautiful St. Vrain River just a stone’s throw from downtown, you can enjoy downtime playing bocce, volleyball and corn hole, or relaxing around a firepit before tucking into your very own tiny home. The resort pairs its high-end tiny homes with a welcoming community house, ideal for group stays and shared experiences. Check out The Solaire, a modern abode for four, or the Empty Nester which fits six.

Loving the fresh air and serenading sounds of the river? Lavern M. Johnson Park is another overnight option located on the banks of the river with 15 RV sites and 22 tent sites to choose from. The park is also a great spot to post up for the day if you want to get out on the water—tubing the river, kayaking the rapids and fly fishing are all popular activities from spring to fall. Ray’s River Rentals, based in LaVern M. Johnson Park, offers tubes for rent from early June through late August, as long as the river is floatable.

Hit the Town in Lyons, Colorado

During the day, take a stroll along Main Street to peruse the local boutiques and art. As you wander, take a peek at the north side of Town Hall (432 Fifth Ave). The mural was created by local artist Android Jones and incorporates Lyons-style elements, with a nod to tubing, pinball and music, into portraits of native wildlife. Looking for a tasty treat? Solace sells everything from artisan chocolates and locally-made hot sauce to colorful macarons. And don’t miss Lyons Classic Pinball—this Lyons landmark has been around for 17 years, offering you the chance to play 37 pinball games from vintage 1960s machines to contemporary ones, plus six classic video games.

The one thing you should know about Lyons? It’s big on events. You’ll find something fun to do on most weekends throughout the summer. Time your trip to coincide with one of the internationally recognized music festivals held at Planet Bluegrass Ranch. This outdoor venue is located along the banks of the St. Vrain River, bordered by dramatic red sandstone cliffs—bring your lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Get tickets for RockyGrass, which takes place in July, or Rocky Mountain Folks Festival in August every year. Several restaurants in downtown like Oskar Blues and MainStage Brewing Company also host live music many nights of the year, or on Wednesdays during the summer check out the town’s weekly Sandstone Summer Concert Series.

In June, attend the new Summer Vibes Festival, with three bike events ranging from gravel to dirt jump courses, running races (including a Beer Relay), kids’ activities and plenty of live music. The energy is musical festival meets a classic Colorado weekend of cycling, trail running and camping.

Dig in to Mountain Eats

Moxie Mercantile is the go-to spot for coffee, pastries, breakfast and lunch. This baking company sells breads and pastries made with house-milled, organic, heirloom grains and is also known for its great coffee. Grab a sandwich for a day in the park, browse local wares, or visit the farmers market, held on Sundays during summer and fall for artisan goods, local foods and live music. Nearby, the St. Vrain Market sells fresh vegetables, baguettes, jams and other grocery items as well as a selection of gourmet cheeses, house-made sausage and fresh-baked pies if you want to pick up something to-go for a picnic in the park.

Beer aficionados will enjoy a stop at Oskar Blues—opened in 1997, this casual, family friendly brewery–which also has food and live music–became one of the first in the nation to can its craft brews in 2002. Order the original Dale’s Pale Ale for a refreshing drink with citrus floral hops. On the other end of Main Street, MainStage Brewing has a fantastic outdoor patio and live music, plus locally brewed beer. It’s located in one of the oldest buildings in town, a brick structure from 1881 that was once the McCallister Saloon, and also serves quick bites like chicken tenders and pizza.

For a more sit-down affair, Marigold serves delicious and inventive food in a cozy, bistro-style setting. Though the brick-cooked chicken served with salsa verde is an always-popular option, if you see seafood on the ever-changing menu, rest assured that Chef Theo Adley has engineered a delicious dish you’ll want to try. From sea urchins to skate wing, these seasonal offerings are decidedly unique. The restaurant is popular so it’s a good idea to make reservations.

Finish out the evening at the tasting room at Spirit Hound Distillers, where you can enjoy cocktails and tasting flights at the newly renovated covered patio and indoor bar. The distillery also offers 30-minute group tours if you’re interested in getting an insider look at the operations.

Learn more at lyonscolorado.com

For more information:
Town of Lyons
432 5th Ave.
lyonscolorado.com