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Farmers Markets in Denver and Boulder CO

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Colorado is Farm Country

The Farmers Market season is one of the most anticipated events in Denver. Did you know that having a farmers market in your community is on the Bucket List when people are home hunting? It’s true!

farmers market palazzi farms parker co

All Farmers Markets are Likely to have Delayed Openings due to Stay at Home Orders

Boulder Farmers’ Market – Wednesday & Saturday – TBA

Saturdays – The Boulder Farmers’ Market Saturday season runs every Saturday beginning the first Saturday in April through the fourth Saturday in November,  8 a.m to 2 p.m.

Wednesdays – The Boulder Farmers’ Market Wednesday evening season runs every Wednesday beginning the first Wednesday in May, through the first Wednesday in October,  4 p.m to 8 p.m.

The beautiful location on 13th Street between Arapahoe and Canyon is next to Central Park in downtown Boulder. You can walk, ride your bike, take the bus or drive your car to visit us.

We have found in the past that your four-legged friends are happier if left at home.

Parking Information

Saturday parking is available for free in all public garages (NOT CITY LOTS!).

City of Boulder Public Garage Locations:

  • 11th & Walnut (Randolph Center)
  • 11th & Spruce
  • 15th & Pearl
  • 10th & Walnut (St Julien Hotel)
  • 14th & Walnut (RTD Bus Station)

Note:City lots, pay stations, and parking meters are not free on Saturdays!

Wednesday parking is available for free after 3 pm in the City lots accessed from 14th Street between Canyon and Arapahoe.

Longmont Farmers’ Market TBA

Saturdays – The Longmont Farmers’ Market season runs every Saturday beginning the first Saturday in April through the first Saturday in November, 8 a.m to 1 p.m.

Located at The Boulder County Fairgrounds, on 9595 Nelson Rd.  Easily accessible from the corner of Hover Rd. and Boston Ave in Longmont CO.

There is plenty to see at the Longmont location and there is an abundance of FREE parking for all!

For more information on the Boulder  & Longmont Farmers Markets check out their fantastic website here.

Southlands Farmers Market – Saturdays TBA

Shop local vendors for organic and pesticide-free produce, fresh dairy products, delicious baked goods, homemade salsa, tamales and tortillas as well as gourmet pasta, natural soaps, handmade goods and much more!

Southlands Farmer’s Market
Town Square
Saturdays – 8:00am – 1:00pm

Parker Farmers Market – Sundays TBA

The Parker Farmers Market always starts on Mother’s Day in May and this year is no exception. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Olde Town Parker Colorado where Mainstreet is filled with local area farmers, Palisade Fruit Growers, Flower Growers, Fresh Honey, Eggs, Meat and loads of handmade goods.

Location: Mainstreet at Parker Road

  • Dates: Mother’s Day weekend through October
  • Hours: 8 a.m to 1 p.m. (Or until sold out)

Castle Rock Farmers Market – Saturday TBA

The Castle Rock Market starts late in the summer usually the Saturday after the 4th of July and runs through September.

Location: Festival Park – Wilcox

  • Dates: Saturdays – July – September
  • Hours: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MAIN STREET MARKETS TBA

Arvada Farmers Market

May 31st – October 4th

Sundays, 9-1:30

Olde Town Square
W 57th Ave & Olde Wadsworth Blvd
Arvada, CO 80002

Westminster Farmers Market

June 6th – October 24th

Saturdays, 10-2

Hidden Lake Center
72nd Ave & Sheridan Blvd
Westminster, CO 80030

The Orchards Farmers Market – Sundays’ July – October

The Orchards Retail Center is home to yet one more Farmers Market  located at 144th and I-25 offers shoppers a way to meet and greet the people that sow, hoe and harvest their food. Every Sunday more than 40 vendors pour into the center to bring the community the freshest possible foods available.

The Orchards Farmers Market – Sundays’ July – October

The Orchards Retail Center is home to yet one more Farmers Market  located at 144th and I-25 offers shoppers a way to meet and greet the people that sow, hoe and harvest their food. Every Sunday more than 40 vendors pour into the center to bring the community the freshest possible foods available.Orchards Farmers Market
14697 Delaware Street, Suite 850Westminster, CO 80023
Sundays in the North Parking LotHours: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Dates: July through October

Metro Denver Farmers’ Market began over thirty years ago in downtown Dates TBA

Denver in an Auraria campus parking lot, on Saturdays only.
Our aim is to bring the freshest, local produce directly to you.

All locations are part of the SNAP Program and accept EBT card for payment!

SATURDAY

LAKEWOOD

JUNE 27 – SEPTEMBER 26
9077 W Alameda Ave
Alameda & Garrison (Mile Hi Church)
10am-2pm or Sellout
Click for Map

SOUTHWEST PLAZA

MAY 2 – OCTOBER 31

Southeast Parking Lot
Wadsworth & Bowles
8am-2pm or Sellout
Click for Map

SUNDAY

HIGHLANDS RANCH

MAY 3 – NOVEMBER 1

Highlands Ranch Town Center
9288 Dorchester St.
10am-2pm or Sellout
Click for Map

WEDNESDAY

LITTLETON

JUNE 17 – OCTOBER 28

Aspen Grove Lifestyle Center
7301 S. Santa Fe Dr.
10am-2pm or Sellout
Click for Map

THURSDAY

WHEAT RIDGE

JUNE 18 – OCTOBER 29
4252 Wadsworth Blvd.
10am-2pm or Sellout

Click for Map

Highlands Ranch Farmers Market – Sunday TBA

Located at Highlands Ranch Town Center Square
9288 Dorchester St., Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

  • Dates: May 6 through October
  • Hours: 10am until 2 pm or Sellout

Directions to Highlands Ranch

Southwest Plaza Farmers’ Market  – Saturday

Located at Southwest Plaza SE parking lot
Wadsworth & Bowles

  • Dates: May – October
  • Hours: 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. or sellout

Directions to Southwest Plaza

Havana Exchange Farmers Market – Monday

Located at 2712-2892 S Havana St (Havana & Yale)

  • Dates: June 18 – October
  • Hours: 10 am until 3 pm or Sellout

Directions to Havana St

Littleton Farmers Market – Wednesday

Located in Aspen Grove Lifestyle Center 
at 7301 S. Santa Fe Dr.

  • Dates: June 13 – October
  • Hours: 10am until 3 pm or Sellout

Directions to Littleton

Wheatridge Farmers Market – Thursday

Located at 4252 Wadsworth Blvd.

  • Dates: June 14 – October
  • Hours: 10am until 3 pm or Sellout

Directions to Wheat Ridge

Colorado Fresh Farmers Markets

Cherry Creek Fresh Market

Saturdays

  • Dates: May 5 – Oct 27,
  • Hours: 8 am – 1 pm

Wednesday

  • Dates:Jun 20 – Sep 27
  • Hours: 9 am – 1 pm

1st Ave. & University Blvd.
(Map) (Photos)

City Park Esplanade Fresh Market – Saturdays
Presented by Kaiser Permanente

  • Dates: Mother’s Day weekend – Oct
  • Hours: 9 am – 1 pm

E. Colfax Ave. & Columbine St.
(Map) (Photos)

Stapleton Farmers Market – Sundays
Presented by Stapleton MCA

  • Dates: Jun 17 – Oct 14
  • Hours: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

E. 29th Ave. & Roslyn St.
(Map)

More information is available on these market at their website here.

The Highlands Ranch Farmers Market and Street Market has become one of the area’s finest. Having a farmers market is one of the things people look for when moving into a neighborhood.

The HRCA Street Market has over 30 vendors and offers handcrafted items, accessories, cooking items garden accessories and lots more each week. The two markets are side by side.

Sundays May through October

When: Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., May – October
Where: Wadsworth Blvd. and Bowles Ave., Highlands Ranch
Made up almost entirely of farmers and producers from the areas surrounding Denver, this is a fun, fresh market that is worth the drive to Highlands Ranch.

Highlands Ranch Farmers Market & Street Market Vendors

Colorado Farmers:

  • Domenico Farms  – Colorado grown produce, much of it organic
  • Forté Farms  – Peaches, cherries, and apples from Palisade, Colorado
  • Galicia Farms  – Colorado grown vegetables
  • Martindale Farms – Grows a wide variety of vegetables, proudest of their corn.
  • Mazzotti Farms and Greenhouses  – Colorado-grown fruit and vegetables, bedding plants, herbs, vegetable plants and perennials
  • Mumm Farms  – Colorado-grown produce – Our Rocky Ford connection, brings melons, and produce.
  • Rocky Mountain Rice Company – has varieties of rice and Pastamoré vinaigrettes
  • Snow Creek Ranch – Raises Black Angus Beef and features Cottonwood Creek Farm eggs.
  • Styria Bakery II – Makes European gourmet and artisan bread and dipping sauces.

Farmers Market Vendors:

  • Ant D’s Fine Foods: Jams, jellies, pasteles, bbq, catering. We source and use as much local produce as is available.
  • Avanti Winery: Featuring over 25 Colorado wines
  • Baba & Pop’s Handmade Pierogi: Handmade pierogi and other Eastern European delights
  • Bavarian Sausage Express: Our Wurst is the Best! gourmet sausages, etc.
  • Big E’s BBQ Sauce: Big E’s BBQ Sauce and Mountain Berry Farms Jams, Jellies, and Preserves
  • Big Soul’s Catering: Chili cheese dogs, hot dogs, nachos and popcorn
  • Cecolors & company: Beautiful skin-loving artisan soaps and sand-cast rhubarb leaf garden art, and luminous Rosy Rings botanical candles!
  • Clay Inspirations: Handmade and wheel-thrown, functional ceramic pottery, oven, microwave and dishwasher safe. Unique, decorative pit fired vases.
  • Devil Dog Colorado: 100% Arabica select coffee, slow-roasted in the ‘South American’ style — supporting Marine families, all active and Veteran Military, & Community 1st Responders with each purchase.
  • Diné Creation: Handmade jewelry designed and created using materials from natural stones and metals such as turquoise, mother of pearl, Lapis, and coral.
  • Dixie Maid Pickles: Far and away the best pickle on the face of the earth!
  • East to West Imports: Shawls
  • Furry Friends Biscuit Bakery: Homemade dog biscuits containing only the finest ingredients. Each biscuit is hand-cut and slowly baked to provide a great snack for your furry friend.
  • GRATE ROOTS: Premium horseradish
  • Grumpy Geez, LLC: Buffalo Bill’s Beef Jerky, Mountain America Natural Beef Jerky (Colorado made), Jeff’s Famous Beef Jerky and Jerky Seasoning
  • handmade stuff:
  • High Country Products, Inc: Water Bottles
  • Honey Gal: A unique selection of Premium Rocky Mountain Wildflower Honey, specializing in “Whipped Honeys.” Whipped Honey are a “spreadable” blend of thick Wildflower Honey, blended with natural fruits, nuts, and natural flavors–also a great selection of HoneyStix
  • Illuminada: Jewelry
  • Juice Plus+ (Heather Allen): Whole-food Nutrition in capsules and shakes
  • Juice Plus+ (Kelly & Jim Arter): Whole food nutrition in capsules, chews, and shakes.
  • Leashes Etc: Humane pet products for owners who care. Featuring No-Pull harnesses and two dog walkers, unique and effective products that make interactions with your pet more enjoyable.
  • Lindsey Handbags: Purses and totes
  • Maggie’s Magnificent Cakes, Inc.: Wisecakes are one of the most delicious and healthiest cakes in the country – four flavors and gluten-free. Just add water, stir, and bake.
  • Mama Montoya: Frozen Pork Green Chile – Medium & Hot, made from our family’s 70-year-old recipe with 100% fire-roasted, hand peeled Colorado chiles.
  • Matchstick Cards: Greeting cards
  • N&N Cuisine LLC: Lebanese foods – Spinach, meats pies, za’atar, cheese pizza, hummus, baba ghanoujj, baklawa, flatbreads, pita bread, and vegetarian grapes leaves.
  • Philpott Goat Dairy: One of the last traditional goat cheese dairy farms in Colorado using age-old methods for making ricotta and goat cheese.
  • Posh Pastries: The finest in gourmet desserts and bakery items — an excellent selection of gluten-free pastries and seasonal baked goods.
  • Renewal by Andersen: Replacement windows that saves on utility costs and protects what counts.
  • Roberts Gorditas LLC: Flat quesadillas. Frozen and hot tamales Mexican and Colombian. Tacos. Shell quesadilla. Flour, wheat and corn tortillas. Enyucado. Flour and wheat gordita. Pupusas. Arepas, Chipotle, red and green salsa. Chips. Aguas Frescas.
  • Taspen Organics: Natural,organic wellness products: herbs, oils, and pure essential oils.
  • Wild Alaskan Seafood Products: Quality Alaskan seafood — vacuum packed products flown to Colorado. Also, local Pappardelle’s Gourmet Pasta
  • Posh Pastries  Also at the Parker Farmers Market on Sunday

For vendor information about the market visit the Denver Farmers’ Market website or call 303-710-2408.

Other Farmers Markets in the Denver Metro Area include:

Cherry Creek Fresh Market
When: Saturdays, May  – October , 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. & Wednesdays, June  – September  9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: E. First Ave & University Blvd., Denver
Consistently named by locals as their favorite farmers’ market, the Cherry Creek Fresh Market is devoted to Colorado producers. Shopping here helps local family farmers stay in business, preserves quality local food sources for Colorado while using fewer resources, and most importantly, provides you with access to the freshest and most nutritious produce available. Get some just-popped kettle corn or a fresh-made tamale, mingle with the crowd and start shopping!

City Park Esplanade Fresh Market
When: Sundays, May  – October , 9 am – 1 pm
E. Colfax Ave. & Columbine St.
Where: E. Colfax Ave. & Columbine St., Denver
The lush, green expanse of City Park is the perfect spot for a good old-fashioned Farmers’ Market. The City Park Esplanade Fresh Market boasts the same vendors as Saturday’s Cherry Creek’s Fresh Market but is usually a little less crowded. It’s also a perfect spot for a picnic – just grab some fresh fruit, some bread, and cheese and find a nice spot in the sun.

The Market at Belmar
When: Sundays, June  – August , 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Alaska Dr. and Teller St., just east of Alameda Ave. and Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood
This European-inspired marketplace is a great way to spend your Sunday morning or afternoon. For the best fresh picked basil pestos, marinated Italian cheeses and balsamic vinaigrettes this side of Tuscany, head to Loredana’s Pesto. Morton’s Orchard offers Colorado vine-ripened organic fruit—the peaches are to die for. And if the sight of all that food makes you ravenous, pick up an order Sister’s Pantry’s Asian Dumplings with soy lime and cilantro. Or show up early for the fantastic pancake breakfast!

South Pearl Street Farmers’ Market
When: Sundays, May – November , 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: On the 1500 block of Old South Pearl St., between Florida Ave. and Iowa Ave., Denver Super-fresh produce, ready-to-eat treats, artisan cheeses and just-out-of-oven baked goods – this is what a Farmers’ Market is all about! The quaint Old South Pearl neighborhood hosts this splendid Farmers’ Market every Sunday in the summertime. The irresistible smell of freshly roasted chilies will lead you over to Pope Farms’ booth. If you’re looking for tips on what to do with your haul, show up around noon for the weekly “Nibble At Noon” chef demonstration featuring recipes, cooking tips and more.

Littleton Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays, May – September 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: 8501 West Bowles Ave., Littleton
In addition to filling your fridge and pantry with fresh produce and baked goods, at the Littleton Farmers’ Market, you’ll enjoy a vibrant community spirit and fun atmosphere. A typical Saturday at the market includes a hospitality tent with information about Historic Downtown Littleton, special kids activities, live music, gardening tips, a chair massage, adopt a pet and get veterinarian advice.

Aspen Grove Farmers Market 
When: Wednesdays June – October

GET DIRECTIONS…
Farms and locally made food products represented include:

• Domenico Farms • Forté Farms • Galicia Farms • Martindale Farms • Mazzotti Farms and Greenhouses • Mumms Farms • Rocky Mountain Rice Company • Snow Creek Ranch • Styria Bakery II


How to Find a Lost Pet in Colorado

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colorado lost & found pets

People are so distraught or worried when they post that they often neglect to give everyone great information to try to help spread the word and help with more pet and people reunions.

SIX THINGS TO DO RIGHT AWAY TO FIND YOUR LOST DOG OR CAT!

Act fast!  Colorado shelters are, by law, only required to keep lost pets for 5 days. (If overcrowded.. some keep them for less)

SIX WAYS TO HELP YOU GET YOUR PET HOME IN COLORADO!: Whether you have lost a pet or found one, there are high tech & low tech tasks you should do right away

  1. HelpingLostPets.com  Click this link and fill out the form. This puts your pet in a nationwide database and map, provides you with a flyer for printing to post in your neighborhood (old school still works!) and one to share online. Colorado Lost & Found pets will be emailed with that information and will post it to the Facebook page, added to the appropriate album. It will go out through both HeLP & the CO L&F Twitter feed. The posters also have a QR code.
  2. File a report with the Humane Society/Local Shelter. Some shelters allow this to be done online, but YOU should also go to the shelter. The shelters will often keep a list of animals not for public view. It also gives you a chance to go through their found/lost reports that are not usually online. Contact veterinary clinics in your area. Use their “Lost and Found” bulletin boards.  

Metro Denver Alliance 
Other Colorado Rescues by City
City and State Roads (deceased animals): This will vary by city and county. Check with your shelter for how your area handles deceased pets.

2. ONLINE! On Facebook, watch for your post yourself in your Colorado Lost & Found Pets Album post. Use that SAME file every time you share all over Facebook! This is SO IMPORTANT! The more that one image gets “liked and shared” the more powerful it is. Put that poster on YOUR Facebook page. Your friends might not know you are missing your dog.. Change your top banner & Profile photo to your LOST PET Photo!! Have more photos? add them in the comments of your pets album post.  RESPOND to people’s questions and follow up on ALL leads ASAP
Check & register with www.fidofinder.com – www.petharbor.com & Helping Lost Pets. (If you didn’t do this in step 1)

Fido Finder has a $5 fee to upload a photo of your pet which makes your ad much more effective.

ADD YOURSELF TO THE PETHARBOR EMAIL LIST: CHECK AREA SHELTER by going to Petharbor.com  Pet harbor will allow you to search at shelters within a 200-mile radius of your zip code. You can request to get a notification for new pets coming in.

(They also offer a service to send out postcard flyers to a certain zip code for a fee)

3. Next Door! Post your lost or found pet to the lost pets category on Next Door. These are your close neighbors so are most likely to help you find your lost pet.

4. CRAIGSLIST! This is a place a lot of people go to when a pet is lost/found.

Craigslist can be tricky when looking for or post a lost or found pet

WHEN POSTING: Be clear if you have FOUND a dog. Post in Lost and Found OR in Pets, or both. Include a picture. We know there is concern about someone claiming a dog that is not theirs but leaving a picture out makes it tough for the people who are sincerely trying to find their pet. There are other ways to confirm ownership.

WHEN SEARCHING: Some people will post “LOST DOG” when they FOUND a lost dog. The breeds can be wrong — we have seen a cattle dog listed as an American Bulldog before. They can also leave very vague posts– e.g. “I found a dog-call to describe” Same with cats.. you might not even know what “kind” of alley cat you own which is why I wrote this post: Guide to Alley Cats / Mixed Breeds by Color

NOTE: There have been some cases where dogs have been found being rehomed on Craigslist, so please keep an eye on all areas of Craigslist.

5. MICROCHIP! If you have found a pet…Have it Scanned for a Microchip at the local vet, shelter or Petsmart. If you have lost your pet, contact the company as they can often send out an alert (there might be a fee).

There are a few companies that do this. The most common is HomeAgainhttp://public.homeagain.com My favorite service is Petlink. They email me every quarter to remind me to update my information and it was a small one time fee. www.petlink.net Not sure if your pet’s chip is registered? Enter the number here to check: http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org/

Some good insight from someone who lost their pet: “One problem we had that we didn’t know we had: Home Again never put our contact information in their system. When I called to alert them that we had a missing dog, they couldn’t help. I didn’t have the ID number. Check to see that the chip is registered! And make certain the second point of contact has the ID number.” Your Vet can check your chip for you to make sure it’s got the correct information on it.

6. FLYER FLYERS AND MORE FLYERS!!!!! OLD SCHOOL!

MOST Important!!! Post Flyers. Big Flyers. Let people know you are missing your pet. Unfortunately, some people will not call the Humane Society, and may not actively look for you, but if they see a flyer they may think twice about keeping your pet. Additionally, if one person in the family has decided to keep your pet, but someone else sees the sign they might act on getting your pet back. ( Remember, you got flyers in step #1)

Print Color Flyers with LARGE Letters a great Photo and your phone number. Make them easy to read! People will be driving by so if they can’t tell what it is then it’s not going to help you. Put the flyers in a sheet protector upside down and tape the bottom shut with duct tape. That way if Colorado weather happens, your posters won’t be soaked.

Here are a couple of links to help with flyers

Helping Lost Pets – This one not only provides flyers for print and online but it also registers the pet on the map and sends out alerts to pet lovers in your area and emails us.

Tips for an Effective Dog Poster

Post fliers in a minimum 3-mile radius of where you lost your pet.

Hand out mini flyers (4 to a sheet) with a GOOD photo of the pet & your contact info door to door in your neighborhood. Larger flyers drop by businesses in your area, put up on bulletin boards. Time-consuming but effective. Talk to the delivery people in your area and hand them a small flyer!! Mail Carriers, UPS, FedX, Milk delivery, trash collectors… these people are in your neighborhood on a regular/daily basis…

Check “found” ads and take out a “lost” ad in your local newspaper. Many of them do this for free. 

This article talks about the importance of flyers. In this electronic world we live in, often the low tech approach can be what brings our pets home.

6. SCENT!!! Dogs and Cats see the world with their noses. If you are missing a pet put something with a familiar scent in the area where they were lost, so they can track the scent and stay nearby. For cats litter boxes suggested & their beds, for dogs, we recommend a blanket or t-shirt (worn by someone they dog is bonded to). Put these in an area with water, and check back at varying times. If your pet was lost in a larger area, trying strips of a familiar blanket spread as sort of a breadcrumb trail.

WANT TO HELP? Contact the Facebook Page Here


I started the Colorado Lost & Found Pets page on Facebook about 8 years ago and WOW have I learned a bunch along the journey.

Here are some links to a little more information:

Tips on How to Find a Lost Dog

Scent Method – Scent Trail

Finally, you may be considering keeping or rehoming the pet after searching for the owner. Please read this note about that here:

Don’t give up! Pets can be found months after they’re lost.

COLORADO LOST & FOUND PETS ALBUMS

If you furkid is not there, then here is what you need to do.

HOW TO POST TO COLORADO LOST & FOUND PETS:

  1. Register your lost or found pet with HelpingLostPets.com you can use your poster online, and in your neighborhood. We will get a notification about your pet and will post to the page and add to the appropriate album. Watch for the post so you can tag yourself and answer any questions that may come up.
  2. Read the 6 things above!

WE ALSO SUPPORT AND RECOMMEND THESE COMMUNITY-SPECIFIC PAGES ON FACEBOOK IN COLORADO

These are pages we recommend. There are a few groups throughout Colorado on Facebook, however, Groups are just NOT effective in helping with lost & found pets because they are limited with sharing to only those in the group and there is no way to keep the albums organized. It’s much better to support these large already established and well run pages than try to start up new ones on your own. Most of us are happy to have you help the admin team. 🙂

READ THROUGH MORE TIPS BY CLICKING THE LINKS BELOW:

LOST DOG PHONE APP’S TO CHECK OUT

We want to thank the many people who helped get all this information and methodology together including Marilyn Litt, the National Dog Examiner  and  the Volunteers from the Colorado Springs Lost Pet Alert who have mentored us and helped create this successful method to help people to be reunited with their pets. 

Lost & Found Pet Facebook Pages across the U.S.

Dog-Friendly Bars & Patios in Denver

By

We all know how nutty about Dogs Denver folks are. You really can’t walk in any park in town without seeing dozens of dogs and having a dog park nearby is at the top of the list for people moving to a new town in Colorado.

WHERE TO DRINK WITH YOUR DOG IN DENVER

We have searched out some doggie friendly bars throughout Denver for you to explore.

dog on patio

BARK BAR

Northwest | 4132 West 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80212

Denver’s Northwest neighborhood combines two of our favorite things: a dog park and a bar that welcomes pups. Bark Bar’s rotating tap features seasonal, local beers, perfect for sipping while you hang out with your pup on the patio. Or order a refreshing mixed drink and appetizers while your dog plays in the bar’s adjoining off-leash area.

WATERING BOWL

Southeast | 5411 Leetsdale Dr, Denver, CO 80246

When you’re on the Southeast side, you and your pup should head to the Watering Bowl to meet some new friends. This dog-friendly restaurant with vaulted ceilings has both a great beer selection and yummy, affordable appetizers. Because you’ve got your dog by your side, you might just want to hang out for hours. And so will your pup, thanks to the large outdoor area where he can do a bit of socializing of his own.

SPOT BAR & GRILL

Speer | 98 S Pennsylvania St, Denver, CO 80209

Locals come to Spot Bar & Grill in Speer for the delicious smoked wings and stay for the awesome outdoor seating area, perfect for hanging out with four-legged companions. Bonus: Vintage photos of dogs hung all over the walls!

UGLY DOG SPORTS CAFE

Central | 1345 Cortez St, Denver, CO 80221 (303) 428-3600

All-purpose bar with pool, karaoke, wings, burgers & other pub grub plus outdoor space for pooches.

DENVER BEER CO. 5 BONES ON BRING FIDO! 

Highland | 1695 Platte St, Denver CO 80202

Dog-friendly brewery with a beautiful outdoor beergarden. Pooches are allowed on leash in the building and can even sample a “Dog Beerscuit” made from the spent grain from the brewing process. It is the place to head to if you love house-brewed premium ales and lagers made with fresh, local ingredients. Grab a pint and head out onto the dog-friendly beer garden where you can sip and socialize with fellow dog-lovers.

THE MATCHBOX

Five Points | 2625 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80220

This neighborhood watering hole in Five Points serves up great drinks with a side of Bocce ball. When it’s nice out, head out onto Matchbox’s large patio with your pup and challenge someone to a game. Inside, you’ll find a  great jukebox and out front, rotating food trucks perfect for a post-drink snack.

JAKES FOOD & SPIRIT

RiNo – 3800 Walnut Street, Denver

Every community needs a friendly neighborhood tavern that delivers great meals, cheap drinks and a place to hang out with neighbors and friends. Prior to 2010, the historic Five Points communities of Cole, RiNo (River North), Whittier and Curtis Park had no such place to congregate, so being residents of Five Points ourselves we opened Jake’s Food & Spirits to accommodate the increased number of families, young couples and businesses moving into the area.

Located just a mile-and-a-half from Coors Field in the heart of RiNo, Jake’s is open for lunch, happy hour, dinner, late-night dining and weekend brunch both inside and outside on our 100-seat, dog-friendly patio. Visit us to lounge on the patio, watch your favorite team on one of our 10 HDTVs

BARKER LOUNGE

75 Santa Fe Drive

Great gay, dog-friendly bar! Amazing back patio. Dogs welcome inside and out. Darts, pool table, super friendly service.

The Tavern Uptown

Uptown | 538 E. 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

The Tavern Uptown is known for its bottomless Bloody Mary bar, and weekly trivia nights, and massive TV’s perfect for catching the big game with friends. On warmer days, patrons flock to the  dog-friendly outdoor seating area to enjoy libations. They’ll even bring your pup a water bowl so he can quench his thirst while you quench yours.

Dougherty’s Neighborhood Pub

Speer | 5 E Ellsworth Ave, Denver, CO 80209

Dougherty’s in Speer is everything you want in a neighborhood Irish pub: good food, drinks, and vibes. Stop in for mouth-watering Shepherd’s Pie and scrumptious Guinness Mac and Cheese. The dog-friendly outdoor patio is a great place to sip on some Irish whiskey while hanging out with furry friend.

Forest Room 5

Highland | 2532 15th St, Denver, CO 80211

When you first arrive at Forest Room 5 in Highland, you might think you’ve stumbled onto the set of Twin Peaks. The interior vibe feels like a slightly surreal hunting lodge, with cocktails named for woodland creatures to match. The rustic dog-friendly patio features a fire pit where you and your pup can stay warm and toasty while socializing with the resident dog Tyga, a giant Bernese Mountain dog.

DOG-FRIENDLY PATIOS IN DENVER

STELLA’S COFFEE HOUSE

Stella’s Coffee House provides free Wi-Fi, offers complimentary dog bones to its puppy customers and has a roomy front patio.

OBLIO’S PIZZERIA

Oblio’s Pizzeria is dog-friendly and offers tasty pizzas, subs, and salads that are reasonably priced.

SQUEAKY BEAN

Homegrown ingredients and creative cuisine equal a must for Denver diners! Bringing Fido? Ask for a water bowl!

“Squeaky Bean is a great restaurant, really top notch and you get to bring your dog. Not a greasy spoon, but real food with heart and soul. My pup had a great time visiting with all the cool people walking by. Very pleasant dinner with my best friend.” 4 bones on Bring Fido . 

BONNIE BRAE ICE CREAM

Bonnie Brae Ice Cream serves some of the best ice cream in Denver and offers pet-friendly patio seating.

CAFE EUROPA

Cafe Europa serves up tasty java in a relaxed atmosphere and has seating outside that’s dog-friendly. on Bring Fido.

RACINE’S  5 BONES ON BRING FIDO

Racine’s diverse menu offers everything from burgers to Southwestern to hot turkey dinners. Dogs are welcome at umbrella tables.

“When you dine on Racine’s lovely patio, your dog is welcome. They even bring a water bowl! Lots of people bring pets and they try to seat near the sidewalk so that you can dash out if need be. Enjoy a cocktail under the Colorado stars and bring your dog. It’s great!”

THE IRISH SNUG

1201 E. Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO, US 80218
303-839-1394In the mood for a taste of the Emerald Isle, swing on by The Irish Snug. Corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, Guinness ice cream, you name it, they got it. Dogs are allowed on the Marion St. patio every day after 5pm.

HIGHLANDS CORK & COFFEE

A beautiful coffee house/wine bar with a spacious dog-friendly patio. Water bowls and treats will be provided.

TAILGATE TAVERN 

South East – Mainstreet in Parker CO

Well behaved Dogs are allowed on the patio of this busy bar just south of Denver. They don’t have a bunch of bowls for water but will bring out a pitcher if need be. This place can be busy sometimes. There is also a great park across the street and it’s a fun place to walk your dog down Mainstreet USA.

Welcome Home Brewery in Parker Colorado

Dogs are welcome inside this new microbrewery in South Parker, they even have several dog events scheduled throughout the year including a couple of painting classes geared towards dog lovers.

No-Kill Animal Shelters in Colorado

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There really is no such thing as a no-kill shelter because sometimes by the time an animal is brought to the shelter, it’s health is too bad and the shelter has to put the animal down. However several shelters in Colorado have a 90% or above save rate. Those are listed below.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY  COLORADO

Arapahoe County’s shelter is run by the Humane Society of the South Platte Valley. It serves Englewood, Littleton, as well as South Platte County and Cherry Hills Village, approximately 78,000 people. In 2013, the shelter had a 96% save rate.

ARCHULETA COUNTY COLORADO

The county shelter in Archuleta County has a partnership with the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs. They serve 12,000 people. In 2013, they had a combined 97% save rate.

BOULDER COUNTY

The Boulder County Humane Society is a leader in the Denver Metro area has this mission:

In August 2004, a group of animal welfare industry leaders from across the nation met at the Asilomar Convention Center in Pacific Grove, California.  Their purpose was to build bridges across varying philosophies among those involved in animal welfare, to develop relationships and create goals focused on significantly reducing the euthanasia of healthy and treatable companion animals in the U.S.

A common vision for the future was adopted – the Asilomar Accords.  The Accords set forth guiding principles for animal welfare organizations to work together to save the lives of all healthy and treatable companion animals.  The document aims to cut through the rhetoric of ‘no kill’ vs. ‘open admission’ shelters and to dispel the murkiness of what defines adoptable animals. To achieve this, there is a national effort for all organizations that shelter animals to utilize the same statistical record keeping.  Having standard language that all shelters can use will help us to compare the work that we do at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley with other shelters here locally and nationally as well.

For the past several years, we have collected and reported our statistics according to a nationally recognized formula, the Asilomar Accords. Aimed at providing a consistent and transparent way of understanding the outcomes of the animals coming through our front doors, we measure our success through the number and percentage of lives saved. The live release rate represents the percentage of animals who leave our building alive through reunification if they are lost or stray or through adoption into a new home. In 2013, we achieved a 92% live release rate.

Working with the Metro Denver Shelter Alliance, we track the statistics of more than 20 animal welfare agencies in our area. Through the Alliance, we look for trends and emerging needs so collaboratively we can identify ways to save more animals’ lives.

BRUSH COLORADO

The Brush Animal Shelter serves 5,000 people, but it does not accept animals surrendered by their families. In 2013, it reported a save rate of 91%.  (Because the shelter does not publish comprehensive statistics, this listing is unconfirmed.)

CEDAREDGE COLORADO

Cedaredge and Orchard City are served by two organizations: Cedaredge animal control which takes in dogs and Friends of Cedaredge Animal Control which takes in cats. They serve 5,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 94% for animal control and 97% for the Friends group.

CHAFFEE COUNTY

Chaffee County’s two shelters are run by the Ark Valley Humane Society. They serve 18,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 98% in one shelter and 96% in the other. For more information, click here.

CLEAR CREEK COLORADO

Clear Creek and Gilpin County have a joint shelter. Together, they serve 15,000 people. In 2013, their combined save rate was 99%. For more information, click here.

CRIPPLE CREEK COLORADO

Teller County is served by two shelters: Teller County Regional Animal Shelter and the City of Cripple Creek’s animal shelter. They serve a combined 23,000 people. TCRAS, which does not accept cats, saved 98%. The Cripple Creek Animal Shelter saved 100% in 2013.

EAGLE COUNTY COLORADO

Eagle County Animal Services serves the unincorporated county and the cities of Avon, Basalt, Eagle, Gypsum, and Vail. They serve 52,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 90%.

FREDERICK COLORADO

Frederick’s shelter is run by the Longmont Humane Society. It serves 9,000 people. LHS also provides sheltering services for Longmont County, an additional 86.000 people. In 2013, the combined save rate was 93%.

FREMONT COUNTY COLORADO

The animal shelter is run under contract with the Humane Society of Fremont County. It serves 46,000 people. It saves over 90% of the animals.

GARFIELD COUNTY COLORADO

Garfield County and Glenwood Springs both contract with Colorado Animal Rescue to run their shelter. The shelter serves roughly 66,000 people. In 2013, the combined save rate was 96%.

GILPIN COUNTY COLORADO

Clear Creek and Gilpin County have a joint shelter. Together, they serve 15,000 people. In 2013, their combined save rate was 99%.

GLENWOOD SPRINGS COLORADO

Garfield County and Glenwood Springs both contract with Colorado Animal Rescue to run their shelter. The shelter serves roughly 66,000 people. In 2013, the combined save rate was 96%.

GRAND COUNTY COLORADO

The Grand County Animal Shelter serves 15,000 people. In 2013, the combined save rate was 99%.

LA PLATA COUNTY COLORADO

La Plata County’s animal shelter is run by the La Plata County Humane Society. It serves 51,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 91%.

LAKE COUNTY COLORADO

The Leadville – Lake County Animal Shelter serves 7,300 people. In 2013, the save rate was 96%.

LAMAR COLORADO

The Lamar Animal Shelter serves 7,800 people. Their save rate was 99%. The Lamar Animal Sanctuary is a private shelter that also took in animals, with a save rate of 98%.

LAS ANIMAS COUNTY COLORADO

Animals in Las Animas County are taken to Noah’s Ark. The county has 16,000 residents. In 2013, the save rate was 90%.

LONGMONT COLORADO

Longmont’s shelter is run by the Longmont Humane Society. It serves 86,000 people. It also serves Frederick which has an addition 9,000 people. In 2013, the combined save rate was 93%.

MORGAN COUNTY COLORADO

Morgan County’s animal shelter is run by the Fort Morgan Humane Society. It also serves Fort Morgan, Log Lane, and Wiggins. It pulls animals from Brush as well. It serves 28,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 93%.

OURAY COUNTY COLORADO

The Second Chance Humane Society provides sheltering services for San Miguel County and Ouray County with the exception of Telluride, which has its own shelter. They serve a combined 12,000 people. In 2013, the save rates were 99% and 100% respectively.

PITKIN COUNTY COLORADO

The Pitkin County animal shelter is run by Animal Animal Shelter. They serve 17,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 95%.

RIFLE COLORADO

The Rifle Animal Shelter serves 9,000 people. In 2013, the save rate was 97%.

RIO BLANCO COUNTY COLORADO

Rio Blanco County is served by two shelters and has a population of 6,700 people. The Rangely Animal Shelter reported a save rate of 99% The Meeker Animal Shelter had a 100% save rate but does not accept cats.

ROUTT COUNTY COLORADO

Routt County has a population of 24,000 people. It is served by the Steamboat Springs Animal Shelter. In 2013, it reported a 99% save rate. For more information, click here.

SAN MIGUEL COUNTY COLORADO

The Second Chance Humane Society provides sheltering services for San Miguel County and Ouray County with the exception of Telluride, which has its own shelter. They serve a combined 12,000 people. In 2013, the save rates were 99% and 100% respectively. For more information, click here.

SOUTH PLATTE COUNTY COLORADO

South Platte County’s shelter is run by the Humane Society of the South Platte Valley. It serves Englewood, Littleton, as well as Arapohoe County and Cherry Hills Village, approximately 78,000 people. In 2013, the shelter had a 96% save rate. For more information, click here.

SUMMIT COUNTY COLORADO

Summit County Animal Control & Shelter serves 28,000 people. In 2013, the shelter had a 97% save rate. For more information, click here.

TELLER COUNTY COLORADO

Teller County is served by two shelters: Teller County Regional Animal Shelter and the City of Cripple Creek’s animal shelter. They serve a combined 23,000 people. TCRAS, which does not accept cats, saved 98%. The Cripple Creek Animal Shelter saved 100% in 2013. For more information, click here.

TELLURIDE COLORADO

The Second Chance Humane Society provides sheltering services for San Miguel County with the exception of Telluride, which has its own shelter. They serve a combined 7,600 people. In 2013, the save rates were 99% and 100% respectively. For more information, click here.Source of this information is the Saving 90 website whose goal is to encourage the pet loving community to support this idea. specific information for 2013 in Colorado for each shelter can be found here. This data hasn’t been posted on Colorado.gov since 2013 so there could be more shelters who have now reach the 90% mark.

THESE SHELTERS IN COLORADO ARE AT 80% SAVE RATE

LARIMER COUNTY
MONTROSE COUNTY

Cat Care Society Cage Free Shelter

The Cat Care Society operates a limited admission cage-free shelter for homeless and abused cats while providing community outreach programs to enrich the lives of people and cats.  Cat Care Society is 100% funded by private donations, from people just like you. 

CAT CARE SOCIETY PHILOSOPHY

Cat Care Society (CCS) was founded in 1981 by Linda East, DVM and Lynn Rowe. CCS is a nonprofit organization and was established in order to improve the quality of life for homeless, injured and abused cats in the Denver metropolitan area. The Society’s goals are:

  • To sponsor educational programs that promote responsible pet ownership, humane treatment of all animals, and the elimination of pet overpopulation;
  • To shelter cats in a healthy, cage free environment and to find compatible and responsible families for every cat;
  • To provide community outreach programs that improve the quality of life for cats and people;
  • To be a friend to all cats.

The shelter provides a temporary refuge for up to 45 adult cats until an appropriate and permanent home can be found for each. Veterinary care, premium diet and human interaction are lovingly provided.

Cat Care Society

A large number of phone calls received each day from people who have found abandoned, abused or injured cats needing good homes indicates a strong community need for our services.  We receive an average of 70 phone calls for assistance daily.  Sadly, more than half of these are from owners needing to give up their cats.  For these cats, we provide Information about placing the cat and referrals to other area shelters.   We also provide this same information to people who have found a cat when we are at or over our capacity and cannot take the cat.  Many calls involve behavioral problems or are questions about feral (wild) cats.  Behavior counseling and printed articles on a wide variety of topics is available.  Humane traps are also available for rent.

Cat Care Society is supported by a number of loyal members and contributors, without whom we could not operate.  We receive no government funding.  In addition, our volunteers assist with many fundraising activities each year such as book sales, Meow Mart, Cajun’s Closet Thrift Store, our holiday gift and bake sale and much more.

HERE’S HOW DONATIONS HELP CAT CARE SOCIETY:

  • $1,000 cares for 30 kittens, including shots, spays/neuters, microchips, food and litter.
  • $500 provides medical care for one geriatric cat for one year.
  • $400 covers the cost of a significant surgery, such as Kitty’s leg amputation
  • $125 purchases one month’s worth of kitty litter.
  • $50 provides antibiotics for a sick cat.
  • $25 buys one kitten two weeks’ worth of food.

The other way to help is to adopt one of the beautiful loving cats that are housed at the Lakewood center.

Cat Care Society
5787 W. 6th Ave.
Lakewood, CO 80214
(303) 239-9680

More information on the Cat Care Society website here

Colorado Dog Parks

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COLORADO IS DOG CRAZY!

No.. really, this state has a huge variety of dog-friendly shopping, travel and dining in almost every nook and cranny of the state. We will do our best to search out the hidden spots for you.

Dobby at the Parker Dog Park

Denver Metro Dog Parks

If you know of a fantastic dog park in Colorado that isn’t listed please feel free to contact us or add it in the comments below.

BOULDER DOG PARKS

East Boulder: There is a park located at 5660 Sioux Drive near the East Boulder Community Center and includes a small lake for those labs and retrievers to go nuts in!

Foothills: This park is in North Boulder, west of Broadway and between Locust and Lee Hill Roads. It offers separate areas for both small and large dogs.

Howard Heuston: 34th Street, south of Iris Ave. and east of 30th St. This is the only non-fenced dog park in Boulder. The majority of the park is leashed but there is an off-leash area that is well-marked.

Valmont: This 3-acre park is in Northeast Boulder off of Valmont Road, east of Foothills Parkway.

Click to learn more about Boulder’s off-leash program for dogs.

COLORADO SPRINGS DOG PARKS

Dog Runs (Hiking areas where dogs are allowed off-leash if kept under control):
Garden of the Gods ParkArea east of Rock Ledge Ranch & south of Gateway Rd.
Red Rock Canyon Open SpaceDesignated Dog Loop trail areas south of main parking lot.
Palmer ParkYucca Flats
Dog Parks (Fenced areas where dogs are allowed off-leash if kept under control):
Cheyenne Meadows Park (south portion)Native grass area off Charmwood Dr. and Canoe Creek Dr.
Palmer ParkOld baseball field, .3 miles from Maizeland entrance
Rampart ParkJust east of the baseball diamond.There are dozens of sites with information on dog parks in Colorado, check out the links below:

PUEBLO DOG PARKS

City Bark at City Park – Pueblo
Nuckolls Ave Pueblo, CO
west end of the park
Hours:  6am-10pm
Managed By: City of Pueblo

The City Bark in Pueblo is 2.5 fenced acres with drinking water, benches and a tree.

Our dogs want to run around without their leash.. and we all want to let them but of course it’s not allowed and could be dangerous for you, your dog, and the public so instead we need to find the best dog parks in the area and treat our pooches with a day out.

Below is a list (which is by no means complete) but it’s a place to start. If you know of a fantastic dog park that isn’t listed please feel free to contact us and let us know your favorite and why!

dobby dog at the dog park

DENVER DOG PARKS

SOUTH OF DENVER OFF LEASH DOG PARKS

HIGHLANDS RANCH DOG PARKS

The Metro District offers four dog parks where dogs can exercise, socialize, and run off leash. Water is available on site during irrigation season. If you have questions, or to report a problem at a dog park, please contact the Metro District at 303-791-2710.

Hound Hill at Highland Heritage Park
9651 S. Quebec St.
Google map
Park information and map

Digger’s at Dad Clark Park
3385 Astorbrook Circle
Google map
PDF of park layout

Fido’s Field at Foothills Park
1042 Riddlewood Drive
Google map
PDF of park layout

Rover’s Run at Redstone Park
3280 Redstone Park Circle
Google map
PDF of park layout

Hours: 7 a.m. until sunset

  • Owners must pick up after their dogs, carry a leash at all times, and be in the park with their pet(s).
  • Dogs must be leashed as they enter and exit the dog park and must be under voice control at all times.
  • Aggressive dogs and dogs in season are not permitted.
  • Dogs must be vaccinated.
  • Children must be supervised by an adult.

Metro District Parks, Recreation and Open Space Service Center 303-791-2710
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office 303-660-7500
Park Ranger Pager 303-240-2311

NORTH OF DENVER DOG PARKS

DENVER METRO AREA OFF LEASH DOG PARKS

There are dozens of sites with information on dog parks in Colorado, check out the links below:

Colorado Dog ParksDog GoesBring Fido

MORE DOG PARKS

Colorado Dog Parks

Dog Goes

Bring Fido

Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championship

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The 2019 Winning Ice Sculpture
The 2019 Winning Ice Sculpture

This is and has always been a free event open to the general public.

Competition/ Sculpting Days:  January 20-24, 2020

Viewing Days: January 24-29, 2020

The event site will close at 7:00 p.m. on January 29 and the Sculptures will be taken down.

Join the fun January 20-29th, 2020 for the 30th Annual Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championships!

Where are the sculptures located?
The Snow Sculptures are located in the area around the Riverwalk Center at 150 West Adams Avenue, Breckenridge, CO 80424.  The Warming Hut exhibit and event headquarters are inside the Riverwalk Center.

2020 ISSC TEAMS

2020 ISSC TEAMS include USA-Alaska, Argentina, USA-Breckenridge, China, Ecuador, France-Normandie, Germany, Great Britain, India, Mexico, USA-Minnesota, Mongolia, Switzerland, Turkey, USA-Wisconsin, USA-Vermont.

2020 SNOW SCULPTURE SCHEDULE

Sculpting Week | January 20-24, 2020

Award Announcements | January 24, 2020

Viewing Weekend | January 25-29, 2020

A Permanent Memento
Be sure to stop by the Thaw Lounge+Music for postcards, pins and for more event information including a look at past sculptures.

ice-sculpture breckenridge international snow sculpture competitoin 2012

Snow carving in Breckenridge began as a local pastime during the town’s winter carnival – Ullr Fest – in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The founders of Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championships are still involved in the event, which is today attended annually by more than 30,000 people.

History on Display
Discover the process of snow sculpting, information about the teams and lots of interesting trivia. Located in the Thaw Lounge+Music, this exhibit explores the last 25 years of the International Snow Sculpture Championships.

Don’t Forget to Vote for your favorite sculpture

Support your favorite sculpture with the People’s Choice Vote. Throughout sculpting week, simply text the country of your favorite sculpture to vote. Text numbers can be found at each sculpture. More details can be found in the Warming Hut.

Voting starts Wednesday, January 22 at noon
Voting ends Saturday, January 25 at 2:00 p.m.

The Magic of Ice
Don’t miss the spectacular Ice Village, located at the Riverwalk Center. Each intricate carving is sculpted into a glowing statue. The sculptures represent many of the supporters of the Snow Sculpture Championships.

Are Dogs Allowed?

The International Snow Sculpture Championships is a pet-friendly event, however, please be aware that there will be cannons, light shows, crowds and can get very cold. Please keep pets on a leash and away from the snow sculptures.

Free Daily Parking

Free parking is available on Airport Road with free shuttles running every 15 minutes via the Yellow Route on the Breck Free Ride Bus. The closest bus stop to Event Headquarters is F-Lot, which is serviced by most bus routes. View bus schedule

Free public transportation is available throughout town from 6:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. View town bus routes

International Snow Sculpture Championships Stay and Ski Lodging Packages

Call the Breckenridge Resort Chamber at 877-864-0868 or visit GoBreck.com for more information on the 2012 International Snow Sculpture Championships and January lodging packages in Breckenridge.