Lodging in a Nutshell |
Ron Callari, Contributing Writer |
 With a population of 144,126, Lakewood, Colorado covers approximately 45 square miles. Lakewood is ideally situated between the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and downtown Denver.
The West 6th Avenue freeway, I-70, C-470 and U.S. 285 link Lakewood to business centers, entertainment and recreation throughout the area. Denver International Airport is 45 minutes away; downtown Denver is less than 20 minutes and the Continental Divide is just an hour’s drive.
With a location in the foothills of the Rockies, the vibrant energy of downtown Denver and a superb climate to enjoy it all in, Lakewood is a destination that has a little bit of everything. The outskirts that lead up to the mountains boasts the presence of many kinds of wildlife, such as coyotes, deer, prairie dogs, and many species of birds. Occasionally, elk, bald eagles, and a variety of waterfowl also visit the outlying areas.
Bear Creek Lake Park is the largest of Lakewood's more than 80 parks. It is unique as a city park since it offers multiple picnic sites, camping, a large fishing lake, stocked regularly with trout, horseback riding, many bike trails, both dirt and paved, hiking trails, boating, swimming, wind surfing and water-skiing.
Lakewood's Heritage Center is a historic and social venue that features a step back in time to the early 20th century. Located in scenic Belmar Park, the museum currently has over 10 historic structures, 30,000 artifacts preserved, a new festival area and outdoor amphitheater.
New to town, Colorado Mills was completed this past November 2002, just in time for the holiday season. With it anchor stores of Neiman Marcus and Off Saks Fifth Avenue, the complex attracts tourists as well as visitors. Offering something for everyone, the Mall features a 14-screen United Artist Theatre and contemporary restaurants like Chili’s, Johnny Rockets and the California Pizza Kitchen. An Eddie Bauers and Super Targets is also available. Be sure to ask when making hotel reservations if they offer “Shop and Stay” packages that combine a hotel visit with valuable coupons redeemable at Colorado Mills.
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