You step off the bus and notice a narrow-gauge train puffing steam across a high bridge, its whistle echoing through a snowy valley. The air is crisp, and Victorian buildings line the street, their signs promising candy and coffee. A few locals wave as they shovel sidewalks, unfazed by the altitude.
This little town, just 45 minutes from Denver, sits at 8,530 feet, surrounded by jagged peaks. With about 1,100 residents, it has a dozen restaurants and shops along its historic main drag. On weekends, the train draws families, while skiers zip toward nearby slopes.
Welcome to Georgetown, Colorado, a former silver-mining hub that’s now a cozy getaway. Its National Historic Landmark District status keeps the 19th-century charm alive. Here’s a quick tour of what makes it special.
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Hop on this 1884 narrow-gauge train for a 4.5-mile ride to Silver Plume and back. It climbs 640 feet, crossing four trestles with views of Clear Creek Canyon. Book ahead at the station on Loop Drive; tickets start at $30 for adults, and kids love the open-air cars.
Historic Museums
Stroll to the Hamill House Museum on Argentine Street, a Gothic Revival home from 1879 showcasing silver baron life. Nearby, the Hotel de Paris Museum, once a luxury inn, displays original furnishings. Both are $10 to enter, with discounts for kids, and guided tours run daily in summer.
Flickr/jollyroger05
Guanella Pass
Drive or bike this 22-mile scenic byway south from town. It’s paved, free, and offers hiking trails and picnic spots in Arapaho National Forest. Check road conditions at the Georgetown Gateway Visitor Center on Argentine Street, especially in winter.
Georgetown Lake
Just off I-70, this reservoir is a year-round spot for trout fishing and picnicking. In winter, try ice fishing or watch ice car races from January to March. The lake’s free to access, with parking and restrooms at the visitor center.
Flickr/Seclusive Nature
6th Street Vibes
Georgetown’s main street buzzes with local shops like Georgetown Jerky & Emporium and Kneisel & Anderson Store. Grab a burger at Guanella Pass Brewing or sweets at the candy store. Shop owners often chat about the town’s history, adding to the friendly feel.
Flickr/Don Graham
The town is walkable, with free parking along 6th Street. Public restrooms are at the visitor center, and most attractions are wheelchair-accessible. Check georgetown-colorado.org for events like the Bighorn Sheep Festival in November or summer stargazing tours.
Georgetown’s safe and affordable, with hotel deals in spring (March to May). Families will like Foster’s Place Playground, where kids aged 2 to 12 can burn off energy. For food, try the Mexican spot on 6th Street—locals swear by the tacos.
Extend your trip with these nearby spots: Loveland Ski Area (12 miles west, 15 minutes) for skiing, Idaho Springs (10 miles east, 12 minutes) for hot springs, or St. Mary’s Glacier (20 miles northeast, 25 minutes) for hiking. Each adds a different flavor to your adventure.
Ready to explore? Visit the Georgetown Gateway Visitor Center at 1491 Argentine Street to grab a historic sites guide. Use a map to navigate the compact downtown, and check georgetown-colorado.org for event updates.