AAA Colorado ~ EnCompass Magazine

Colorado Explorer

Castle Rock: There’s even a real castle

Twenty years ago, a stop in Castle Rock on a winter’s eve meant you might not find a gas station open after 8 o’clock.

My, how times have changed.

This booming small city between Denver and Colorado Springs is the main attraction in Douglas County. The county’s population explosion began in the early 1990s, with the opening of the factory outlet stores just north of town. But don’t think those 120 stores are the only reason to visit. You can find some great shopping — and dining—in town, too.

Check out The Barn, a large white building on Perry Street, where nearly 30 vendors sell everything from contemporary handmade silver jewelry to bona fide antiques. You can find the whimsical, such as a hand-painted mailbox, to the elegant, maybe a Victorian mirror.

“You’ll find things here you’d never find in a mall,” says jewelry-maker Arleen Alleman.

Small boutiques, such as Annie’s and Irresistibles, offer clothing and other items you won’t find at any outlet store. The Tobacconist sells fine cigars. And The 3 Lynx shop will remind you of the quaint toy stores of another era. The dining scene has evolved from a few fast-food and chain restaurants to a slew of eateries that would do a big city proud. The pan-fried chicken at the Castle Café and fine dining at the Old Stone Church are the old-timers in town.

Noteworthy newcomers include the Augustine Grill (check out their holiday teas), the upscale food at the Union Bistro, and Brannigan’s, an Irish pub with microbrews. The same couple who opened Dream Pastries, featuring homemade bakery goods, also has opened the charming Crepe Café. And for Mexican fare? Check out El Meson.

If you’re seeking more than just shopping and eating, hike up to the top of Castle Rock — the trailhead is in Rock Park on the north end of town. Or, for a longer trek, drive out to Castlewood Canyon, southeast of town, and spend a couple of hours meandering through canyons and along a creek.

No visit would be complete without a trip out to the Cherokee Ranch & Castle, a historic Scottish-style castle that overlooks a broad valley and a still-viable ranching operation. You can tour the castle by appointment, or you can combine a tour with tea, lunch, brunch, or an evening dinner and concert. It’s especially festive over the holidays.

As for holiday celebrations, the town has one of the oldest commemorations in the state — the lighting of the star atop the rock from which the town gets its name. It happens for the 71st time this year on Nov. 18.

Castle Rock celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, but it may just now be hitting its stride.

For information, contact the Castle Rock chamber office, 303-688-4597.

Eat•Shop•Stay

Specialty shops and galleries, old inns and unexpected eateries

Well-known and worth it

Glenwood Springs’ Hot Springs Lodge & Pool is celebrating 50 years of relaxing getaways—and it’s even better in the snow than it is in the summer. True, you can indulge in the world’s largest hot springs pool without staying at the hotel, but it makes such a convenient package—your room rate includes unlimited free admission to the pool. 800-537-7946.

Pretty much everyone who’s been to Boulder has shopped the Pearl Street Mall. But have you visited West End Gardener, rated one of the best gardening shops in the nation, and Two Hands Paperie, which goes beyond stationery into the realm of art? If you’re looking for unique gifts this time of year, try them on for size.

Lesser known gems

The perfect blend of old and new can be found at the Abriendo Inn in Pueblo, where you can soak in a whirlpool tub before climbing into your Victorian four-poster bed. Grab a cup of cocoa and a homemade cookie after a brisk walk to the nearby historic district or Riverwalk. The “Colorado’s Best” guidebook calls it the best B&B on the Front Range. 719-544-2703.

Rosie’s Brew Pub is the newest addition to the Leadville dining scene and this one’s a winner. Try the meaty St. Louis-style barbecued ribs, or go for the country fried chicken. Everything is fresh and tasty, and the Scottish ale is outstanding. 719-486-2349.

Something different

Not every artist has also created a tourist attraction featuring his work. But that’s exactly what a Colorado Springs sculptor has done. Michael Garman Gallery, selling mantel-sized sculptures of cowboys, World War II pilots, soldiers and more, has used his characters to populate Magic Town, an attraction contained within his studio building in Old Colorado City. Lighting tricks make you feel like a voyeur in a slightly seedy 1/6th scale neighborhood. It’s way fun! 719-471-9391.

If you think burgers and steaks are the only fare available in Lamar, in southeastern Colorado, think again. Right in town is a stunning find: Thai Spicy Basil, an elegant little restaurant with a charming interior and gorgeously presented and prepared Thai food. Be sure to give it a try next time you’re passing through. 719-336-0688.

See & Do

Backstage tours, vintage cars and goat cheese

Well-known and worth it

You’ve seen the plays, the ballets, the concerts. Now see how they’re produced. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts is offering backstage tours of their amazing complex. The tours will focus on either the behind-the-scenes aspect or the art and architecture aspect. 720-931-8687.

Can’t wait for the ski season to start? You may not have to. Wolf Creek Ski Area on Wolf Creek Pass in southwestern Colorado usually opens in early November—sometimes weeks before anyone else. With 465 inches of snow each year, it boasts the most in Colorado. 970-264-5639.

Lesser known gems

John S. Hendricks has a passion for old cars. He loves them so much, he collects them. He’s collected so many, he has opened the Gateway Colorado Auto Museum near Grand Junction. The 50 or so rare cars on display include a one-of-a-kind 1954 Olds F-88 Concept Car. Auto buffs won’t want to miss this. 970-931-2458.

If you’ve ever tasted the goat cheeses from Haystack Mountain Creamery, you might want to take the family for a free self-guided tour of its goat farm in Niwot. Tours are offered noon to 2 p.m., Tuesdays and Saturdays only. It is a working farm, so dress accordingly. You’ll even get to pet a playful, friendly goat. 720-494-8714.

Something different

Take the chill off with a hot bowl of red and a festive lighting display in Julesburg, which kicks off the holidays early on Nov. 19 with its annual Christmas Lighting Festival and Chili Feed. This northeastern Colorado town really gets into the spirit, with free hot cider and cocoa for everyone, and a chance to visit with Santa Claus, who arrives by fire truck. 970-474-3504.

Holiday parades this time of year aren’t unusual. But Parker, on the southeastern edge of Denver, offers an old-fashioned twist. The town’s annual holiday parade, on Dec. 9, is non-motorized, starring antique carriages, horseback riding groups and marching bands. Kids will love the pony rides and petting zoo (baby reindeer). Stop by the food and craft booths and stay for the mayor’s tree-lighting ceremony. 303-841-0353.

Linda DuVal is a freelance writer and former travel editor for The Gazette in Colorado Springs.