Informative

Just a drive down the I-25, rests the beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs, CO. If you have a day off during this wonderful fall, the neighborhood known as Old Colorado City is filled with original art masterpieces, delicious treats, and the most unique gifts and is sure to be worth-while!

Where to start?

After driving down I-25 and following the traffic signs, you’ll end up somewhere on Colorado Avenue. There’s plenty of street parking and free lots surrounding the area, but if you need accessible parking I suggest this lot that is located in the prime of the shopping areas.

Once you’ve parked and grabbed your sunglasses and wallet, you’re ready to go!

What’s for lunch?

I would suggest starting your adventure with some tasty food! After all, shopping and sight-seeing are no fun on empty stomachs. Both of the highlighted restaurants below offer dine-in options as well as take-out.

Bar, City Life, Waiter, Al Fresco, City, Customers
Source: pexels

Right across from the lot mentioned above is a mouth-watering restaurant, Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna. You can smell the delicious flavors being sautéed as you go down the street! It almost feels intoxicating as you whiff the day-long roasted meat and the sticky sweet honey from their bakery. Unfortunately, the building itself is not wheelchair accessible as there is a large flight of stairs to get to the entrance. But they make take-out an easy process, and the slight inconvenience is worth it. You can view their lunch menu here, and if those options don’t tempt you, we’ve got one more lunch suggestion.

A little further West on Colorado Avenue is another enticing dining option, the savory Dat’s Italian! Upon entering this authentic Italian restaurant, you are enveloped by the scents of garlic, basil, and bread within this family-owned business. Their portions are huge, so I would recommend going in to share a meal, or to get ready for some tasty leftovers. You can view their menu here.

If those places aren’t making your stomach growl, there’s also Pizzeria Rustica, the Thunder and Buttons Tavern, or La Baguette Bakery and Café.

Now where to?

After filling your stomach with the tastiest foods Old Colorado City has to offer, you’re ready to go on your shopping adventure!

Each art gallery and exhibit are unique, and almost all of them have art from local vendors. Although they’re all wonderful and deserve your business, I am going to highlight two of them.

Student, Pictures, Exhibition, Gallery
Source: poverss

45◦ Gallery – A framing shop and art gallery combined; this shop offers a variety of art styles. They sell pieces from over 30 local Colorado artisans, including pottery, paintings, and jewelry. This family-owned business feels very welcoming and accommodating to whatever your art or framing needs are. While you wait for help, you are encouraged to visit their boxer Boyd, who is usually sleeping or greeting the other costumers. You’ll also find their daughter creating her own pieces of art that she hopes to sell when she gets older. They are open for casual shopping and visiting, and they offer individual appointments if that is easier for you.

Chavez Gallery – A unique interactive art gallery with wacky characters, this gallery is an experience. Upon entering, you’re welcomed by the couple who own the gallery, the Chavezes. They will offer you a complimentary cup of water or lemonade and offer explanations of their work as needed. If you go during their monthly shows, there’s always live entertainment and fun games to play. Right now, with the pandemic, they are limited to shopping by appointment only and host virtual events on Facebook.

In case buying art doesn’t interest you, Old Colorado City offers unique walk-through exhibits where you can simply enjoy the experience.

Michael Garman’s Magic Town is an immersive 3,000 square foot miniature city where the buildings and people are created at a 1:6th scale. You can peek through the tiny windows, watch a petite movie at the theatre, and peer down allies to see characters appear and disappear! They offer popcorn with the ticket, as you can sit in the exhibit as long as you’d like. There’s even a daily scavenger hunt that offers prizes.

Need some goodies and treats for the road?

Well, you’ve seen some of the best galleries and exhibits Old Colorado City has to offer, and now you’re ready to head back home. But not yet! You have to swing by these two iconic shops to get some goodies for friends (or just for the ride home).

Chocolaterie, Shop, Interior, Chocolate, Store
Source: dimitrisvetsikas1969

Although this franchise can be found nation-wide, nothing beats getting a caramel apple from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory after a long adventure in Old Colorado City. They offer a wide variety of fudges, candy and caramel apples, truffles, and so much more! With baskets and mystery boxes, these decadent treats serve as a great pick-me-up for anyone!

For those with a sweet tooth that is not satisfied by chocolate, I would recommend you visit The Honey Cottage! Offering a surplus of honey options, there is bound to be something there for everyone. They sell the standard honey varieties, along with whipped honey, honey sticks, honey skin care and soap, and CBD-infused honey. The owners are honey enthusiasts and advocates; they will let anyone sample as many honeys needed to find the right fit, and will offer guidance in choosing the right honey skincare line.

That’s all, folks!

I hope you enjoyed this little walk-through itinerary of the beautiful shopping area of Old Colorado City. If you take any of my advice, make sure you do so safely: wear your masks in the stores and on the streets. We want these small businesses to stay afloat during these difficult times, let’s support them and keep them safe!

Informative

            Harwichport, which is located on Cape Cod, in Massachusetts is one of the last true seaside villages in America.  Just a few hours from Boston and New York City, Harwichport is an excellent choice for anyone looking to escape to the beach.

  • Quaint Seaside Village: With a history dating all the way back to the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Harwichport, MA is one of the oldest seaside towns in America.  Though Cape Cod has changed a great deal since then, Harwichport has managed to keep its identity as a happy little town by the sea.  A true summer town, Harwichport comes alive between the months of May and September with many coming to enjoy a weekend or longer.  With its entire coastline being beaches and marinas, visitors have multiple options when it comes to where to lay their towel down for the day.  In addition to the gorgeous beaches, Harwichport also boasts a number of unique shops and restaurants.  From locally made jewelry and clothing, to a vintage sports collectables shop, and even a family owned kite shop this town has something for everyone.

 

  • Delicious Food: Whether you are a fried seafood fanatic or a fine dining connoisseur the town of Harwichport has a place for you.  The Mad Minnow, located in the center of town, has quickly become a local favorite for fresh seafood.  Located just a building over is 10 Yen, one of the finest sushi restaurants on the Cape.  Also in the center of town is George’s Pizza, a must try for any pizza lover.  Cape Cod is famous for fried seafood and clam chowder, and no place does both better than Kreme and Kone, which as two convenient locations just outside of the town’s center on both ends.  And this list would not be complete without Sundae School ice cream.  At Sundae School they do not stop at homemade ice cream, they go the extra mile making homemade hot fudge and whipped cream as well.  No day in Harwichport is complete without a trip to Sundae School.

  • Location: Being right on the elbow of the Cape, Harwichport is the perfect starting point for any Cape Cod Excursion. With Chatham only a 10 minute drive from town, visitors have access to a wide range of shops and restaurants.  Though there is more of a vacation town vibe in Chatham, there are some great locally owned clothing and gift shops.  Additionally, there are a number of whale, seal, and even shark tours based out of Chatham.  Nothing on the Cape is too far for a day trip from Harwich, even Provincetown can be reached in an hour by car or bus.  Harwichport also has multiple access points to the Cape Cod bike trail, which runs from tip to tip.

  • Island Access: Looking to spend the day on a beautiful island? Well look no further than the high-speed Nantucket ferry, which leaves from Saquatucket Harbor just outside of town.  With convenient ferry times, it is easy to spend the day on Nantucket enjoying the beaches or shopping and still be home for dinner.  In addition to Nantucket, the Monomoy Islands are easily reachable from Harwichport by boat.  Don’t worry if you do not have a boat, as there are many places to rent.  The Monomoy Islands have long been famous for their thriving seal populations; however, they have recently gained fame for their growing great white shark populations.

Informative

Despite what the name suggests, Buena Vista is home to far more than breathtaking views! The mountain town boasts a variety of mountain sport hot spots, artistic and cultural attractions, and delicious dining. Pack your vacation with new outdoor adventures, relaxing hot spring evenings, and locally crafted shopping and dining all at Buena Vista this summer!

Hot Spring Paradise

Buena Vista, Colorado's Mt. Princeton hot springs smoke with a resort and mountains in the background
Buena Vista hot springs. Credit: BuenaVistaColorado.Org

Buena Vista is home to all of your new favorite hot spring soak spots. Whether you are looking for a day at the spa, and adventure down the river, or some splashing family fun, Buena Vista has a variety of hot springs locations to choose from. Not only are they a great way to relax and explore, but they also offer prime mountain views. Relax with a ice-cold drink or throw on your adventure hat, Buena Vista’s hots spring’s offer it all!

Hiking, Rafting, and Mountain Play

Several rafters move down the gorgeous river in Buena Vista, Colorado with mountains and trees in the background
Rafting down the river in Buena Vista. Credit: Colorado.com

Buena Vista is home to the largest number of 14ers in Colorado, hundreds of hiking and biking trails, and world class rapids for rafting and kayaking. Try your hand at a variety of outdoor sports offered at all experience levels. Whether you and your family are looking for a beginner hike on the Cotton Wood Pass, or you are a lifelong thrill seeker looking to rush down the rapids with Browns Canyon Rafting, Buena Vista holds classic Colorado outdoor adventures for all!

Spectacular Shopping and Dining

Colorful buildings line the historic main street of Buena Vista, Colorado
Historic Main Street of Buena Vista. Credit: ColorfulColorado.com

At the end of your adventure packed day, wind down with the vibrant shopping, dining, and live music scene on Buena Vista’s historic Main Street. After enjoying a scrumptious locally made meal, you can walk the rustic street to find galleries, gift shops, local craft stores, outdoor gear hubs, and more. Plus, the small town’s famous Brown Dog Coffee Company makes for a great cozy start or finish to any day. The friendly Buena Vista community is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect destination for mountain town tourists!

Listicle

Local businesses are booming here in Denver, especially clothing boutiques. As a fashion lover myself, I have spent my fair share of time visiting the local clothing stores Denver has to offer.

I have compiled a list of my personal favorites, differing in location, style, and price point in hopes to offer a well-rounded shopping experience!

  1. Melrose and Madison
Image taken from instagram.com/melroseandmadison

The first that comes to mind is named Melrose and Madison, which features an expansive space, which is impressive for a boutique. It is on the premium side of shopping because it carries designer brands, which come with a higher price point. I buy my denim from here because they carry the brand names I prefer, like Mother Denim and Agolde. I feel good about supporting a local shop as opposed to a department store. It is located on Old South Pearl Street, a popular place to dine, walk, and shop. Their website is currently down, but their Instagram can be found here. 

2. Pinks Denver

Image taken from https://pinksdenver.godaddysites.com/

The second store I recommend checking out is called Pinks from LA. Trendy styles “straight from L.A.” prompt an appeal to a younger crowd. Many high school and college girls shop here because of this, and because of the reasonable prices, uncommon to see at boutiques. I shop here when I need a dress for an occasion, or just if I want a new top, and I can count on not overspending. They have lots to choose from and are constantly getting in new arrivals! This shop can be found on University Blvd, in between the I-25 exit and Cherry Creek area. Stalk their Instagram here.

3. Patterns and Pops

Image taken from instragram.com/patternsandpops

Next up is this bright shop which claims to have “sweet treats for your closet” featuring bright and unique styles for women of all ages. They carry baby and kids clothes too! They keep prices on the affordable side, without sacrificing quality. Their Instagram is very popular, especially for their try-on parties, which are helpful in seeing the clothes on a person! Patterns & Pops is on a busy block near Downtown Denver, in Lohi.

4. W Boutique

Image taken from instagram.com/wboutiquedenver

W prides themself on “East Coast meets West Coast fashion” with everything under $100. They carry a variety of styles and cater to woman of all ages. For example, I consistently find things I like here, and my mom also picks out stuff she would wear! This local boutique actually boasts two locations in the Denver area, one on Old South Gaylord Street near Wash Park, and the other in Southeast Denver off of Happy Canyon Road, near Cherry Hills. See their Instagram here. 

5. Meraki Moon

Image taken from instagram.com/shopmerakimoon

Lastly, I recommend stopping at this boho-inspired boutique  It is a cozy shop with carefree, yet aesthetically pleasing merchandising. They carry a range of brands, meaning the prices vary. Personally, I remember seeing a few designer brands with a higher price tag, but they also have sales! I scored a brand name tee shirt for $20! Wedged in a strip of local businesses, you can stop by Meraki Moon in the up and coming River North neighborhood in Denver. Check out their Instagram here .