WEST OF 105 | 48 Hours in Georgetown, Colorado

Just 45 minutes west of Denver, Georgetown offers an easy escape with plenty to do. Originally a booming silver mining town, today it’s a mix of well-preserved history, outdoor access, and small-town charm. From a ride on the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad to a scenic drive over Guanella Pass, it’s a place where you can dig into Colorado’s past and then head straight into the outdoors—or just take it easy and enjoy good food, a slower pace, and fresh mountain air.

This two-day itinerary covers the highlights: museums, local shops, scenic stops, and solid options for food, drinks, and places to stay.

DAY ONE: Trains, History & Creekside Dining

10:00 AM – Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad
Kick off your trip with a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a beautifully restored narrow-gauge railway that first started chugging through the mountains in 1884. This one-hour scenic ride connects Georgetown and Silver Plume via looping tracks, high trestle bridges, and stunning mountain vistas. It’s an immersive look back in time and one of the best ways to take in the area’s rugged beauty.

11:30 AM – Step into the Past
After the train, wander through Historic Georgetown. Stroll along the streets lined with Victorian buildings, many of which have been carefully preserved from the town’s mining heyday. Stop by:

• Hamill House Museum – This 1867 home, once belonging to a prominent mining executive, offers a glimpse into 19th-century high society in the Rockies. The restored rooms, gardens, and carriage house are a delight for architecture and history lovers.
  

• Hotel de Paris Museum – Located on 6th Street, this former hotel was once the most luxurious lodging in the Colorado mountains. Today, it operates as a museum showcasing artifacts from its past, including original furnishings and personal effects from owner Louis Dupuy.
  

1:00 PM – Lunch on the Creek
Grab lunch at Cooper’s on the Creek, a casual yet elevated spot with a patio that sits right over Clear Creek. The menu includes classics like burgers and sandwiches alongside chef-driven dishes with fresh, local ingredients.

Other great lunch options:

• Cabin Creek Brewing – A lakeside brewery with rotating taps and a food menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and house-smoked meats.
  

• 511 Rose – An upscale but approachable eatery in a beautiful historic building, offering seasonal menus and great cocktails.
  

• The Happy Cooker – A cozy brunch and lunch spot known for its homey fare like quiche, Belgian waffles, and cinnamon rolls.

2:30 PM – Explore Downtown Georgetown

After lunch, take a stroll through Georgetown’s historic downtown, where you’ll find a mix of boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and specialty stores. Stop by Georgetown Valley Candy Company for handmade fudge, caramel, and saltwater taffy—perfect for a sweet treat to enjoy on a bench or take home with you.

4:00 PM – Take in the Scenery at Georgetown Lake
Before calling it a day, take a short drive or walk to Georgetown Lake, a serene reservoir just outside town. It’s a popular spot for fishing, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air. In summer, wildflowers dot the trail that circles the lake.

6:00 PM – Dinner & Drinks
Head back into town for dinner and enjoy a relaxed evening. If you didn’t try Cabin Creek Brewing for lunch, this is a great dinner spot for local beer and hearty comfort food with a view of the lake.

DAY TWO: Mountain Mornings & Scenic Drives

8:00 AM – Morning Brew & Local Flavor
Start your day with a hot cup of coffee from Georgetown Coffee and Tea, a cozy café located in an 1875 stone building. Their espresso drinks, homemade pastries, and comfy interior make for a perfect morning stop.

Mountain Mamas' Needful Things  is part gift shop, part coffee stop, and 100% charming. Grab a drink and browse an eclectic mix of Colorado-made goods, from candles to kitchenware.

9:00 AM – Drive the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway
Hop in the car and head out on the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado. The paved road climbs above treeline to nearly 11,700 feet and offers sweeping views of the Rockies, alpine lakes, and towering peaks like Mount Bierstadt.

11:30 AM – Light Outdoor Time
Spring is a great time to get outside in Georgetown. The snow is mostly gone, trails are drying out, and temperatures are comfortable.

Take a walk around Georgetown Lake for easy views and fresh air, or head just past the lake to the Silver Dale Trails—a quiet network of old mining roads that are good for a short hike or a casual walk.

If you're not in a hurry, find a spot by the water and take a break before heading into town for lunch.

12:30 PM – Brunch or Early Lunch
Swing by The Happy Cooker (if you didn’t try it yesterday!) for brunch. This family-owned spot is beloved for its scratch-made breakfasts, cozy atmosphere, and bottomless coffee.

WHERE TO STAY IN GEORGETOWN

Make your 48 hours complete with a stay in one of Georgetown’s charming accommodations:

• Rose Street Bed & Breakfast – Located in a historic home just a few blocks from downtown, this B&B offers warm hospitality, antique-filled rooms, and a delicious homemade breakfast.
  

• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham – For something a little more modern and budget-friendly, the Microtel offers updated rooms and easy access to I-70.
  

• Georgetown Mountain Inn – A retro roadside inn with a hot tub and pool, perfect for families or those traveling with pets.

  

  Rose Street Bed & Breakfast - Photo Courtesy of booking.com

Georgetown is a slice of the past that still feels alive. With its rich history, mountain views, welcoming locals, and excellent food and lodging, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Whether you're taking in the sights from the window of a historic train or sipping coffee in a cozy café, 48 hours in Georgetown feels like stepping into a storybook—one you won’t want to leave.

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WKRP Montrose