Destination: Golden, Colorado

It’s no wonder that Golden, Colorado has a reputation as one of the West’s friendliest cities. Upon entering the historic downtown, visitors are enthusiastically greeted with a large, western-style sign arching across Washington Avenue, which reads, “Howdy, Folks! Welcome to Golden,” and proudly boasting the slogan, “Where the West Lives.” This iconic sign perfectly captures the spirit of Golden, a friendly and forward thinking city proud of its heritage. With this in mind, Golden welcomes groups and meetings to embrace its Western spirit.

Nestled between two volcanic mesas against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and just 15 miles from Denver, Golden offers both easy access and a small-town getaway where visitors discover a variety of monumental sights. Golden offers a splendid array of culture, shopping, history and recreation. Activities for visitors and meeting attendees include browsing for artwork, exploring historic landmarks and buildings, hiking or biking the trails of Golden Gate Canyon State Park and the Table Mountains, sipping a cappuccino in one of the eclectic coffee shops lining Washington Avenue, and touring a variety of interesting museums for a look back in time to life on the Colorado frontier.

The extensive array of museums and attractions Golden offers is a source of cultural pride for this modest-sized city. Three centrally located Golden History Museums offer visitors the chance to learn about the life and culture of Golden pioneers and the city’s distinctive past through insightful exhibits, old settlements and historic collections. Art lovers enjoy beautiful works by Colorado artists displayed within the Foothills Art Center, a converted Victorian church. The outdoor train yard exhibit of the Colorado Railroad Museum offers visitors a hands-on experience and information about the compelling beginning of Colorado’s railway system including railroad robberies), while the Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum offers a look at the lifestyle and accomplishments of mountaineers. For a great view of the entire city and beyond, visitors can head up Lookout Mountain to visit the grave site of famed showman, Buffalo Bill Cody, as well as tour a museum honoring his life and work. And of course, the world’s largest single site brewery, the Coors Brewery, is a must see and offers free samples of its many brews.

When searching for the perfect location, meeting planners need look no further than Table Mountain Inn. A local favorite, the Inn offers delicious margaritas at their award winning restaurant as well as more than 5,000 square-feet of event space, a professional staff and warm, Western hospitality. Also boasting cozy rooms with private patios and luxurious suites featuring fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and balconies with mountain views, Table Mountain Inn’s 74 guest rooms and suites are designed to relax and renew the spirit.

For a more in-depth view of the attractions that keep attendees busy in their off-time in Golden, visit www.VisitGolden.com