Centennial, Colorado

Situated in Arapahoe County, Centennial got its name from Colorado’s nickname of the “Centennial State.” The state was admitted to the union in 1876, which was the 100th year anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, hence the name centennial.

It is one of Colorado’s newest cities and was incorporated on February 7, 2001. There were around 111,331 residents in 2020, and the city hosts the third busiest airport in the state, Centennial Airport. Because of its proximity to Denver, accessing the larger Denver International Airport is also quite easy and nearby.

The Arapahoe County town offers a lot of activities for both outdoor enthusiasts and city lovers alike. There are many local businesses to support, IKEA, and state parks surrounding Centennial, so you’ll never have to look too hard for something to do. It sits at an elevation of 5,830 feet.

Main Attractions

Centennial Center Park – This award-winning park is located near the Centennial Civic Center. It boasts an 11-acre recreational area for year-round enjoyment and fun. Established in 2012 as the first city-owned park, Center Park continues to provide a family-friendly environment and serve as a community gathering place.

The park features a meadow, climbing walls, play areas, and an amphitheater among other facilities. Amenities include restrooms, barbecue grills, parking, bike racks, and electrical power outlets for events.

Monster Mini Golf – Monster is one of the most unique courses to shoot a round of putt-putt in Colorado. Most notably because it’s indoor and glow-in-the-dark. It’s also monster-themed with plenty of local references painted on the walls, including Trey Parker and South Park. Nearly half of the space is an arcade to keep you entertained off the greens.

Situated south of Denver by C-470, Monster Mini Golf offers miniature golf seven days a week, rain or shine. They have food and drink concessions, along with plenty of prizes for redeemed arcade tickets.

Recreation

Camping – 

• The closest camping spot is Cherry Creek State Park, just a short drive northeast of town. There are year-round campsites available, but winter camping is only on the Abilene Loop.
• Chatfield State Park is to the west and has 197 campsites that all have electrical hookups. Each of the four campgrounds is within walking distance of the lake so you’ll never be bored.

Disc Golfing – David A Lorenz Regional Park is an 18-hole disc golf course in the South Suburban System, the course is situated in a natural open space area. Aside from a flying disc, it is recommended to bring water and sunscreen.

Fishing – Other than small ponds and creeks, Cherry Creek State Park and Chatfield are your best bets to cast a line.

Golfing –

• South Suburban Golf Course is a regional public course that caters to professionals and amateurs alike. It features a full 18-hole, regulation, par 72 course for avid players and a 9-hole, par 31 course for beginners. It also has a casual restaurant, the South Suburban Golf Course Bar and Grill, to grab a delicious meal.
• Family Sports Golf Course is a very accessible course for those on the go, located just next to the Centennial Airport. It has a 9-hole, executive, par 31 course and a two-tiered driving range. After a great game, Avalanche Grill is a great place to grab a bite.

Hiking –

• Willow Spring Open Space is perfect for nature lovers. It has a network of trails as well as many opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing.
• Parker Jordan Centennial Open Space covers 107 acres along Cherry Creek and has a network of walking and biking trails to explore. It’s a great place to get some fresh air without having to go far from town.

Ice Arenas – The South Suburban Family Sports Ice Arena is where the Colorado Avalanche hockey team practices. Whether you are an ice skater, a hockey player, or an adventurous person just wanting to play in the rink, you won’t be out of place.

Accommodations

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Booking.com

Hampton Inn Denver Tech Center South – A convenient option for business and leisure travelers alike. There is free on-site parking, continental breakfast, and even a heated saltwater pool to relax in.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Tech Center – Right in the center of entertainment, shopping, and business. Enjoy free made-to-order breakfast each morning and light appetizers each afternoon in this luxurious accommodation.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Denver South Centennial Airport – This pet-friendly is a great home base for adventures in the Denver area. The rooms are cozy and all have full kitchens and dedicated workstations, great for families and long-term stays.

Read about the best hotels in Centennial.

Dining

Farro Italian Restaurant – Grab a hearty Italian meal from this neighborhood favorite eatery. They have a full menu of brick-oven pizzas, plates of pasta, and other classic dishes.

At Nine Thai – Experience authentic Northern Thai cuisine at this cozy family-owned spot.

Los Dos Portillos Mexican Restaurant – Load up on your Mexican favorites at Los Dos Portillos. Serving up giant margaritas, stuffed burritos, and unique tacos in a colorful restaurant.

Special Events

Jul – Brew-n-Que – Beer sampling and smoked BBQ in one place, what more could you ask for? Tickets are available for pre-purchase and are known to sell out, so be sure to snag one early.

Aug – Centennial Under the Stars – Mid-August celebration of summer featuring a laser light show, food vendors, live music, and local booths selling handmade crafts for the whole family to enjoy.

Sep – Chalk Art Festival – Over 30 chalk artists take over the streets of SouthGlenn for a day of beautiful street art and live music.

Sep – Arapahoe County 5k Trail Run – An all-age event with proceeds benefiting the Arapahoe County Open Spaces, runners will follow the Cherry Creek Regional Trail before enjoying food from Famous Dave’s and drinks from Launchpad Brewery.

Oct – Whiskey Warmer – This free, family-friendly event is held each autumn on a Saturday afternoon. There will be lawn games, tastings from local distilleries, and food vendors.

Dec – Holiday Artisan Market – Bundle up and head out to Centennial Center Park to get in the holiday spirit. The event features performances by the local youth choir, food trucks, and vendors selling handmade gifts if you need to catch up on your present shopping.

Activities near Centennial

Escape Rooms:

• Clue Room

Ice Skating: 

• Family Sport Ice Arena
• The Cube at The Streets at SouthGlenn

Miniature Golf:

• Monster Mini Golf

Public Parks:

• Centennial Center Park
• David A Lorenz Regional Park

Shopping:

• The Streets at SouthGlenn

Towns:

• Arvada (24mi)
• Aurora (13mi)
• Boulder (42mi)
• Brighton (35mi)
• Broomfield (31mi)
• Castle Pines (8mi)
• Castle Rock (15mi)
• Colorado Springs (55mi)
• Commerce City (17mi)
• Deckers (40mi)
• Denver (14mi)
• Edgewater (18mi)
• Englewood (9mi)
• Evergreen (31mi)
• Fort Collins (78mi)
• Franktown (19mi)
• Glendale (10mi)
• Golden (26mi)
• Greeley (69mi)
• Greenwood Village (6mi)
• Highlands Ranch (7mi)
• Idaho Springs (44mi)
• Lakewood (18mi)
• Littleton (9mi)
• Lone Tree (4mi)
• Loveland (65mi)
• Morrison (21mi)
• Northglenn (26mi)
• Parker (9mi)
• Roxborough Park (21mi)
• Sedalia (15mi)
• Sheridan (11mi)
• Thornton (25mi)
• Westminster (25mi)
• Wheat Ridge (20mi)

View the town’s official website.

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