Lakewood, Colorado

Lakewood is a suburb that lies just west of Denver, spanning to the base of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a mostly commercial area, with its “downtown” section in a modern shopping district known as Belmar.

The town resides at 5,518 feet of elevation in Jefferson County. In 2020 the recorded population was 155,984, the fifth largest city in the whole state. Morrison lies to the west of Lakewood, Littleton to the south, Golden and Wheat Ridge to the north, and Denver to the east.

History

Lakewood CO West Colfax A and D Motel — A & D Motel, W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO. Photo by: Jerry Huddleston

Lakewood started as a turkey farming, ranching, and dairy-producing area near the established state capital. The federal government acquired the land in 1940, and the property previously used for agricultural activities slowly developed into residential areas.

The community tried and failed to incorporate Lakewood several times in the mid-1900s. Their efforts came up short due to a lack of law enforcement and defined boundary lines. Eventually, the citizens successfully voted to create the town of Lakewood in June of 1969.

Growth in the city since then has been quick, progressive, and innovative. Over a quarter of Lakewood is dedicated as parks and open space, and there are many large centers of employment that keep the economy stimulated.

Main Attractions

Green Mountain View from Mt. Zion Lakewood CO — Green Mountain in Lakewood, CO. Photo by: Thomson200

Bear Creek Lake Park – Centered around Bear Creek Reservoir, this city park features hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and swimming. Overnight accommodation includes tent camping, RV sites, 3 cabins, and 2 yurts at Indian Paintbrush Campground.

Green Mountain – Rising high above the town and the rest of the front range, Green Mountain makes a great place for day hikes and bike rides. Bring your dogs to this pet-friendly park and enjoy the view from the top.

Everitt Farms – A sprawling 25 acre farm that loves to engage with the community and educate on sustainable agricultural practices. They have a year-round produce stand and seasonal attractions such as a pumpkin patch and corn maze.

Recreation

Bear creek campsite — Bear Creek Lake Park campground in the summer time. Photo by: Lakewood

Camping – Campgrounds at Bear Creek Lake Park and Green Mountain are the most popular spots to camp around town. Read about the camping near Lakewood and Red Rocks.

Fishing –

Bear Creek Reservoir offers shore and boat fishing for bluegill, trout, and smallmouth bass. However nearby Bear Creek only offers lure and fly fishing for mainly trout.
Smith Reservoir and Kendrick Reservoir are within a stone’s throw of one another off of Jewell Street. Both are stocked with crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill.

Hiking –

William Frederick Hayden Park surrounds Green Mountain and offers beautiful open views of the mountain and Lakewood. There are miles of maintained trails to explore, restrooms, and the park is dog friendly.
If you want to explore with your furry friend, Wright Park has a short and sweet paved .5 mile loop to start your day off in nature.
Dakota Ridge Trail is a popular 5.4 mile hike that features unique views of the Front Range and Denver. This trail is also used for biking, so space can be tight in some sections.

Accommodations

Sheraton Denver West Hotel Lakewood — Sheraton Denver West Hotel, Lakewood, CO. Photo by: booking.com

Booking.com

Sheraton Denver West Hotel – Known for having great visibility of the Rockies and room for large events, the Sheraton Denver is sure to impress.

Homewood Suites by Hilton – This accommodation has plenty of nooks to relax in and a humble ambience that will make anyone feel at home.

Comfort Suites – Centrally located by Red Rocks, the Colorado Convention Center, and Pepsi Central arena. The rooms are spacious, and you can even choose one with a personal hot tub.

Read about the best hotels in Lakewood.

Dining

Restaurant inside — Interior of The Yabby Hut seafood restaurant in Lakewood, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/yabbyhut

Westrail Tap & Grill – Classic American sports bar with comfort foods and a full list of beers on tap.

The Yabby Hut – Gulf-coast inspired seafood boils with all the home-cooked fixings.

Gabby’s German Kitchen – If you’re looking to try out some European dishes, Gabby’s has you covered with traditional goulash, dumplings, and sauerbraten.

Special Events

Large outdoor event — Lakewood’s Rockin’ Block Party celebration. Photo by: Lakewood

Apr – Lakewood Earth Day Celebration – Outdoor celebration of the Earth with live entertainment, food, and activities for all.

May – Trout Fishing Tournament – Up to 50 teams compete annually in mid-May for cash prizes. It’s held at Bear Creek Reservoir in the foothills of Lakewood.

May – INSPIRE Arts Week – Take advantage of discounts and special events at over 20 locations throughout Lakewood to explore the arts.

Jun – Rockin’ Block Party – Kick off the summer months during a community block party with food trucks and an outdoor movie screening.

Jul – Big Boom Bash – Come out and celebrate the 4th of July a few days early with this fireworks only event that begins at dark.

Oct – Cider Days – Lakewood’s fall festival that pays homage to its agricultural roots. Live music, food trucks, vintage tractors, and more will be available.