Explore Weld County Spring Summer 2017

exploreweldcounty.com

the official visitors guide

spring I summer 2017

start your exploration today!

1 | discoverweld.com

www.WildAnimalSanctuary.org

Open For Educational Tours All Year New 48,000 sq. ft. Visitor Welcome Center And 1.5 Miles of Elevated Wildlife Viewing Walkway!

2 | discoverweld.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 3

Table of Contents Welcome Letter.............................................................................................................6

Explore Weld County...............................................................................................7

Stats & Facts............................................................................................................8

Top 10 Destinations in Weld..................................................................................10 Taste of Weld County................................................................................. 14

Lucky Fins..............................................................................................................17

Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants...........................................................................18

Red’s Dogs & Donuts.............................................................................................19

Wing Shack............................................................................................................20

Restaurants...........................................................................................................22

Breweries..............................................................................................................26

Distilleries.............................................................................................................27 Play in Weld County................................................................................... 28

Bird Watching........................................................................................................30

Pools......................................................................................................................32

Golf Courses...........................................................................................................35

Parks......................................................................................................................36

Hiking & Biking.....................................................................................................37

Top 10 Kid’s Destinations......................................................................................38

Unique to Weld......................................................................................................40

Fishing Holes.........................................................................................................42

Museusm...............................................................................................................44

Frederick Miners Memorial...................................................................................46

Entertainment & Events........................................................................................50

Greeley Stampede.................................................................................................56 Shop in Weld County................................................................................. 58

Shopping Centers..................................................................................................60

Farmers Markets...................................................................................................63

Antique Shops.......................................................................................................64

Shuttles & Transportation.....................................................................................65 Stay in Weld County..................................................................................66

Bed & Breakfasts...................................................................................................68

Hotel Directory......................................................................................................70

Wedding Venues...................................................................................................73 4 | discoverweld.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 5

Letter from the Board As county commissioners, we are often asked: what is the best part of our job? The answer is easy – talking about all of the great people, places and events that are right here in Weld County.

WELD You see, when you have nearly 4,000 square miles to call home, you have plenty of room for hot air balloon festivals, rodeos, parades, hiking trails, museums…even NASCAR! So whether you are visiting us on a vacation, a staycation or just the weekend, Weld County has something just for you.

Do you enjoy learning about Western history? Weld County has more than 20 museums showcasing life in the West from the Native Americans to the homesteaders to the agriculturalists – all of whom shaped Weld County into the place it is today. Not to mention we have two historic forts that offer a glimpse into Weld County’s rich past.

Perhaps you long for the quiet beauty of the outdoors. Weld County is home to miles of trails perfect for walking, running, biking or hiking. All you have to do is decide on your scenery: lakes, rivers, farmland, or the short grass prairie – we have trails near them all.

Or maybe your family is into something more exciting like rodeos, car races, and concerts. Yep – we’ve got those as well. The point is, Weld County has something for everyone and that’s what makes Weld County a great place for you to discover and explore.

Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure hiking outdoors and watching wildlife, perusing art galleries followed by evening of fine dining and theater, or perhaps sitting on a patio enjoying a local brew and Rocky Mountain sunset, Weld County is the place for you.

So, if you are new to Weld County – welcome. If you are returning to Weld County – welcome back. And if you are lucky enough to live here, well, we’re glad you call Weld County home.

The Board of Weld County Commissioners

6 | discoverweld.com

Explore WEld County When most people think of Weld County, they think of agriculture and energy, rural towns and dirt roads. And while we are proudly all of those things, we are also so much more.

We are thriving communities, exciting activities and engaging personalities.

We are home to museums, trails, galleries and breweries. We host festivals and farmers’ markets.

We invite you to listen to live

music with friends or enjoy a movie in the park with family.

We are city and country, new and old, loud and quiet. We are Weld County, and we are just what you’re looking for. So, welcome! We’re glad you’re here, and we invite you to discover your new favorite place - Weld County.

ELD The Board of Weld County Commissioners

DISCOVER

.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 7

Stats & Facts Weld County was established in 1861 and is Colorado’s 3rd largest county covering 3,996 square miles. It is home to 31 incorporated municipalities, including growing cities, charming towns, thriving businesses and thousands of acres of prime agricultural land.

The land surface is fairly level in the east, with rolling prairies and low hills near the western border. Elevations in the county range from 4,400 to 5,000 feet. With available services, location, resources and livability Weld County offers unbounded opportunity for families to live, work and play.

• Weld County was one of Colorado’s original 17 counties established in 1861.

• The growing season in Weld County is approximately 138 days.

• Weld County was named in honor of Lewis Ledyard Weld, Colorado Territorial Secretary under Colorado’s first territorial governor. Weld later died during his military service during the Civil War.

• Weld County’s climate is dry with warm summers and mild winters.

• Weld County is the third largest county in Colorado (almost 4,000 square miles); larger than the size of Rhode Island, Delaware and the District of Columbia combined.

• Weld County has no long-term debt, no short-term debt and no county sales tax.

• Weld County is home to 31 municipalities.

• The population of Weld County is approximately 270,000.

• Weld County is number one in the state, number nine in the country, in the value of agricultural products sold ($1.9 billion)

8 | discoverweld.com

• Weld County is the largest energy producing county in the state.

• Weld County’s major employers include JBS USA, Leprino Foods, Aurora Organic Dairy, Anadarko Petroleum, Noble Energy, Halliburton Energy Services, Vestas Blades, Banner Health, Carestream Colorado and State Farm Insurance.

• Weld County is a home rule county meaning it is governed by a home rule charter which brings government closer to the people.

Weld County incorporated municipalities

Mead www.townofmead.org

Ault www.townofault.org

Milliken www.millikenco.gov

Dacono www.ci.dacono.co.us

New Raymer @ New Raymer, Colorado

Eaton www.eatonco.org

Nunn www.nunncolorado.com

Erie www.erieco.gov

Pierce www.townofpierce.org

Evans www.evanscolorado.gov

Platteville www.plattevillegov.org

Firestone www.ci.firestone.co.us

Severance www.townofseverance.org

Fort Lupton www.fortlupton.org

Windsor www.windsorgov.com

Frederick www.frederickco.gov

The following municipalities extend into Weld County, however their business center is in an adjacent county.

Garden City www.townofgardencity.com Gilcrest www.townofgilcrest.org Greeley www.greeleygov.com Grover www.grovercolorado.com Hudson www.hudsoncolorado.org

Berthoud www.berthoud.org Brighton www.brightonco.gov Longmont www.ci.longmont.co.us Northglenn www.northglenn.org Thornton www.cityofthornton.net

Johnstown www.townofjohnstown.com Keenesburg www.townofkeenesburg.com Kersey www.townofkersey.com LaSalle www.lasalletown.com Lochbuie www.lochbuie.org

exploreweldcounty.com | 9

top 10 From wide open spaces to indoor pools to everything in between, Weld County has a lot to offer visitors. Weld County is home to festivals and fireworks throughout the summers and fall. Peppered with a mix of wild animals, model railroads and history galore, visitors can truly experience what Weld County has to offer. Check off each on this Top 10 list for the full experience!

Pawnee National Grassland and Pawnee Buttes Located about 25 miles northeast of Greeley, the 193,060 acres on the Grassland are an internationally known birding area, supporting multiple species, especially during migration. Hiking, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, target shooting and stargazing are also popular activities. Pronghorn antelope, mule deer, coyote, swift fox, rattlesnakes and prairie dogs are just a few of the species that make the prairie their home.

Probably the most-photographed area of the Grassland are the Pawnee Buttes, two prominent buttes that rise about 300 feet above the plains. Included in the Grassland is the Crow Valley Recreation Area, at the intersection of Colo. 14 and Weld County Road 77 near Briggsdale, which offers camping sites, picnic tables, water, fire grates and grills, horseshoe pits and a baseball diamond, and from the campground visitors can hike into the 10 | discoverweld.com

prairie for wold-class birding. For more information, go to: http://www.fs.usda.gov/arp Wild Animal Sanctuary The Wild Animal Sanctuary near Keenesburg, in southeast Weld County, has become one of the region’s most popular destinations. Located on 720 acres of rolling prairie, the sanctuary is home to

destinations in weld county dozens of rescued animals, ranging from African lions, tigers and bears to wolves, mountain lions, leopards, lynx, bobcats, camel, ostriches and emus — to name only a few. The sanctuary was built with a centralized compound in the middle, and a “Mile Into The Wild Walkway,” which stretches over 5,100 feet in length and gives visitors unprecedented views from above of more than 400 large carnivores roaming freely in natural habitats. The walkway connects to an Education Center and a Bolivian Lion House. For more, go to: www.wildanimalsanctuary.org Greeley Stampede No event is more closely associated with Greeley and Weld County than the Greeley Stampede. When it officially started in 1922, it was called the Greeley Spud Rodeo. Now the Greeley Stampede attracts 228,000 people annually for concerts featuring nationally known performers, professional rodeos, a carnival, food court, fireworks shows, and the largest July 4 parade in the state with more than 130 entries celebrating our nation’s independence and Colorado’s Western heritage. For more info, go to www.greeleystampede.org/

Colorado Model Railroad Museum This model train museum in downtown Greeley, 680 10th St., attracts visitors from all over America and the world.

With over 600 railroad-related artifacts, the operating model railroad has been called “the finest model railroad I’ve ever seen” by the 30-year senior editors of Model Railroader magazine, Jim Hediger of Milwaukee, Wis. Included in the design are more than 16,000 tiny fir trees, 8,000 deciduous trees, 4,000 aspen trees, and more than 2,500 railroad cars. It took five and a half years and over 30,000 hours of volunteer labor to build. For more info, go to: www.cmrm.org Fort Vasquez and Fort Lancaster or Fort Lupton These two historic trading posts are located within 10 miles of each other on the banks of the South Platte River. Fort Vasquez, just a mile south of Platteville on U.S. 85, was founded in 1835 and was abandoned in 1842. Restored in the 1930s, it includes display exhibits of the fur-trade era in Colorado. Fort Lancaster is just northwest of Fort Lupton, also constructed in 1835 and abandoned by 1844 as the fur trade dwindled. In 2003, the South Platte Valley Historical Society set out to reconstruct the fort, and with exploreweldcounty.com | 11

the help of over 300 volunteers, the fort was reopened with blacksmith and carpenter shops, a kitchen, living quarters, trade rooms and a storage room filled with artifacts. The site includes a visitor center, a campground area, a nature area and four other historic structures. For more info, go to www.spvhs.org St. Vrain State Park For visitors seeking a peaceful and simple outdoor break, St. Vrain State Park is a perfect family friendly destination. With 87 campsites, 604 acres of land and 152 acres of water split among several ponds, St. Vrain State Park is a great place for anglers, campers, photographers, birders, hikers and anyone who loves nature.

Formerly known as Barbour Ponds, the area received an upgrade in facilities in 2006 with the addition of more modern camping facilities, trail extensions, and fishing piers. More improvements are scheduled as well. Half of the campsites have water, sewer and electrical hookups, while the other half all have electricity and water hydrants. For more information, go to cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/ parks/StVrain.

12 | discoverweld.com

Arts Picnic Every year on the last weekend in July, the Greeley Arts Picnic draws thousands of residents and visitors to the city’s historic Lincoln Park. More than 150 artists’ booths sell everything from pottery to paintings, soap to sculptures, and gourmet food to garden art. Performers also provide entertainment on two stages throughout the weekend, The dates for this year’s Arts Picnic are July 30-31. For more information, go to greeleygov.com/ activities/festivals/arts-picnic

Centennial Village Located in northeast Greeley, Centennial Village Museum is an 8-acre living history experience featuring over 35 architecturally unique structures, costumed interpreters, heritage farm animals, beautifully landscaped grounds and interactive experiences. Step back in Weld County’s rich history and learn about the early pioneer settling of the Western high plains, a time when grand houses, growing businesses, extensive prairies and agriculture were all a part of daily life. For more info, go to greeleymuseums.com/ locations/centennial-village.

Colorado National Speedway Whether you’re an avid race fan ready to experience some of the most fierce short-track competition found anywhere, or you’re just looking for an exciting and affordable entertainment venue for the entire family, make plans now to head to the lightning-fast 3/8 paved oval at the Colorado National Speedway in southwest Weld County. Race fans will enjoy around 30 action-filled NASCAR events packed into this season’s schedule. The speedway and management of Colorado National Speedway are committed to a fan-oriented experience. Kids can register for the chance to become a trophy

presenter. Download the CNS app and use it to win prizes on race nights. Excellent food and drink items can be found at the numerous concession stands, and a variety of great merchandise is available at the Souvenir Shack. Autograph sessions, along with free access to the pit area after the races, are great ways to meet your favorite racing hero. Located just off of Interstate 25 at Exit 232, Colorado National Speedway is a short and easy drive from anywhere along the Front Range. For more information, go to coloradospeedway.com/ Poudre Trail The Poudre Trail is a 21-mile, paved and well-maintained trail that traverses central Weld County, from Island Grove Regional Park to Colo. 392 in Windsor, where it connects with another paved trail in Larimer County’s River Bluffs Open Space. The trail is open to the public for walking, cycling, running, roller-blading and more. Included along the trail are informational signs that highlight many of the historical sites and educational opportunities to visit along the trail. For more information, go to www.poudretrail.org

exploreweldcounty.com | 13

tas of weld county 14 | discoverweld.com

Weld County offers dozens of delectable offerings for the dining experience you desire. Are you seeking a high-end, farm to table experience? Try the Greeley Chophouse, in downtown Greeley. Or maybe a small-town, traditional café? Try the Wholly Stromboli Restaurant in Fort Lupton, or the well-known Kersey Pizza in, you guessed it, Kersey.

Perhaps you’re interested in international food? From Fort Lupton to Windsor to Greeley, you’ll find a long list of authentic Mexican food, Oriental restaurants, Italian grills, seafood, Indian and Nepali food, Greek food, … and let’s not forget good ol’ America cuisine and burgers.

How about breweries and distilleries. Weld County is home to a growing number of breweries that put down their roots in Weld County, including the award-winning Weld Werks in downtown Greeley and the trendsetter, Crabtree Brewing Company, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.

From local Mom ’n’ Pops, to national franchise and chain restaurants, it’s not hard to find in Weld County the kind of food and drink to please your personal palate.

ste exploreweldcounty.com | 15

VISIT SANTIAGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANTS Famous for our Green Chile & affordable authentic Mexican dishes that are always fresh!

ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS $29.99 701 11th Ave – Greeley 150 1st Street – Fort Lupton

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS 12 S. Parish Ave – Johnstown 5980 Keys Street – Frederick

ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

2013 ~ 2016

ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS $29.99 ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS $29.99

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS

ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

4530 CENTERPLACE DR. | GREELEY 4530 CENTERPLACE DR. | GREELEY • 327 E FOOTHILLS PKWY. #120 | FORT COLLINS GREELEY (970) 673-8805

| LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM

4530 CENTERPLACE DR. | GREELEY ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS $29.99 (970) 673-8805 | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM CRAB LEGS LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM (970) 673-8805 | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM $29.99

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS

$29.99 ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS

ALL YOU CAN EAT

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS

ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS

ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

$29.99 ALL YOU CAN EAT CRAB LEGS WEDNESDAYS & SUNDAYS ALASKAN SNOW CRAB, CAESAR OR HOUSE SALAD, FRIES

| GREELEY | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM

4530 CENTERPLACE DR.

4530 CENTERPLACE DR.

(970) 673-8805

(970) 673-8805

| GREELEY | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM

4530 CENTERPLACE DR. (970) 673-8805

| GREELEY | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM

| GREELEY | LUCKYFINSGRILL.COM

4530 CENTERPLACE DR. (970) 673-8805

Enjoy buy one, get one free dining at 22 restaurants throughout Greeley and the surrounding area.

ONLY

$20

FOR TRIBUNE SUBSCRIBERS!

ONLY

$25

FOR NON-SUBSCRIBERS!

Your Taste Dining Card will be honored once at each restaurant through November 30, 2017.

Order online at GREELEYTRIBUNE.COM/TOP20 BONUS OFFER!

FREE CACTUS BLOSSOM W/QUALIFIED PURCHASE

16 | discoverweld.com

Lucky Fins 4848 Centerplace Drive • Greeley, CO 80634 (970) 673-8805 •luckyfinsgrill.com

Edgy, affordable and locally owned, Lucky Fins’ food with attitude is a surefire way to satisfy your seafood cravings.

Dining with a landlubber? The innovative menu offers something for every palate.

From premium grade Sterling Salmon to sustainably managed calamari, the kitchen understands environmental awareness. The sushi is art on a plate, prepared by a team of skilled sushi chefs.

Favorites include lobster stuffed avocado, and creamy poblano soup you’ll want to go swimming in, it’s that good. Creative sauces, from savory to tangy, accessorize fresh shrimp and halibut. You’ll dream about the Baja seafood enchiladas, stuffed with shrimp and scallops. Beach Street Tacos — mango shrimp, mahi mahi or local Colorado bison, are loaded with fresh ingredients. Hankering for something grilled? Lucky Fins offers ribs, steaks and pork chops, and hamburgers from Aspen Ridge beef that are almost

too big to hold on to. Prefer something lighter? Inventive entrée salads will let you explore global cuisine, from Tokyo to Key West to Baja. Don’t miss the all you can eat crab nights!

Lucky Fins is perfect for large groups, families and date night. Tie up your boat and come on in!

exploreweldcounty.com | 17

Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants 701 11th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631 • 970-356-5653 12 South Parish Avenue, Johnstown, CO 80534 • 970-587-4134 150 1st Street, Fort Lupton, CO 80621 • 303-857-4797 5980 Keys Street, Frederick, CO 80503 • 303-833-5377 Total of 27 locations across Colorado • www.eatatsantiagos.com

When it comes to green chile, there’s a lot of competition in Colorado to be the best. With multiple awards for food and service at Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants, a local chain of 27 eateries across the state celebrating 26 years, it’s easy to see they’ve accomplished it. Consistent cooking throughout the franchise and staying true to original family recipes created by president and CEO Carmen Morales’ mother, Rachel has served Santiago’s well.

Stop by any of the locations to experience authentic, affordable Mexican dishes that are always fresh. Slow-simmered green chile, fresh pot of beans and handprepared salsa, all made fresh every day, are only the beginning. Start the day with a popular breakfast burrito or other breakfast favorites, Mexican style. From 18 | discoverweld.com

tamales, tostadas to tacos, enchiladas, burritos and platters of all sorts, you won’t go wrong.

Santiago’s is part of Colorado Proud high quality, fresh products locally produced.

You’ll taste their dedication to authentic goodness in every bite.

Red’s Dogs & Donuts 2608 11th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631 (located off Hwy 34 and 11th Ave in the King Soopers Shopping Center) 970-353-2400 www.redsdogsanddonuts.com

Red’s Dogs & Donuts is a Mom-n-Pop shop. Building on standard carnival fare of all-beef quarter pound hot dogs, hand-forged cake donuts and Spudnuts, the potato flour with hints of lemon and nutmeg, Red’s offers a fresh bonanza of foods to cozy up to. We are the only spudnut shop in Colorado offering an extensive donut menu featuring the famous “Baconater,” Twists, Long Johns, Bear Claw and fritters, to name a few of the shop’s delights.

with fresh cut fries. Red’s knows about comfort foods: take home butterballs and Colorado made noodles.

Open all day, offering regular and Udi’s gluten free bagels with a variety of flavored cream cheeses, breakfast sandwiches and Wacky Waffles with every imaginable topping. Order coffee on the go, and for lighter appetites, sip a smoothie.

Come in and feed your fancy!

Have a Kolache, a slightly sweet potato flour pastry roll enclosing krautburgers, bacon and eggs or Philly cheese steak.

Unique wild game sausages are available in house or retail. Try smoked elk, wild boar, pheasant, buffalo, alligator and beer brats. Celebrate in style with the Kobe beef or Bison dog. Really hungry?

Opt for a two-pound smoked, deep-fried turkey leg, a festival favorite. Pair exploreweldcounty.com | 19

Wing Shack Garden City 2704 8th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 • (970) 356-7900 West Greeley 1815 65th Ave Greeley, CO 80634 • (970) 356-4651 Windsor 1261 Main St., Windsor, CO 80550 • (970) 686-5202 Total of Five locations across Northern Colorado • www.wingshackwings.com

With twelve homemade, mouthwatering sauces glazing their Buffalo-style hot wings, and five locations across Northern Colorado to get them, Wing Shack has its finger on the pulse of what customers want. Whether you prefer their fresh, never frozen wings Bear Hot or just Barely, from Shack favorite Garlic Hot to the uniquely sweet and tangy Thai sauce, there’s a wing flavor for you. Menu offerings include salads, sandwiches, wraps, Rocky Mountain oysters and decadent desserts, all cooked fresh to order. Love a favorite sauce? Purchase a bottle to take home! Eat in, take home a Party Pack or let Wing Shack throw a FLY party for your next catered event. Intense flavors and friendly service are heart-warmers.

Have an iron stomach? Take the Bear Hot Challenge and munch your way through their hottest hot sauce — with four spicy chilies of eye-watering heat — to earn your spot on the Wall of Fame and an 20 | discoverweld.com

invite to the annual Wing Eating contest in October.

Wing Shack’s secret to success goes deeper than what’s in their sauce. The company’s local, Northern Colorado team reflects core values of what great things happen when you mix innovation and dedication to quality service.

exploreweldcounty.com | 21

rEstaurants AULT

Gray’s Café 200 1st St., Ault, CO 970-834-0741 Breakfast/Brunch

DACONO

El Taco Loco II 909 Carbondale Dr., Dacono, CO 303-833-6890 www.eltacoloco-restaurant.com Mexican

EATON

Sugar House Restaurant 226 Oak Ave., Eaton, CO 970-454-2210 www.sugarhouse226.com American Dragon Inn 101 2nd St., Eaton, CO 970-454-2705 Chinese

EVANS

The New Plantation 3520 11th Ave., Evans, CO 970-330-7903 www.thenewplantation.com Cajun/Creole Palaminos Mexican Restaurant 3390 23rd Ave., Evans, CO 970-506-1610 www.bestcoloradomexicanfood.com Mexican 22 | discoverweld.com

FIRESTONE

Pinocchios 11078 Cimmarron St., Firestone, CO 303-776-6727 www.incredibleitalian.com Italian

FORT LUPTON

Wholly Stromboli 410 Denver Ave., Fort Lupton, CO 303-857-2252 www.whollystromboli.com Italian

FREDERICK

Georgia Boys BBQ Company 141 Fifth St., Frederick, CO 303-833-3140 www.georgiaboysbbqcompany.com/ frederick BBQ

GARDEN CITY

8th Ave. Wing Shack 2704 8th Ave., Garden City, CO 970-356-7900 www.wingshackwings.com Chicken Wings

GILCREST

Mama Ruth’s Pizza Shop 801 Railroad St., Gilcrest, CO 970-737-0400 Pizza/Italian

HUDSON

The Pepper Pod 530 Fir St, Hudson, CO

303-536-4736 www.thepepperpod.com Cafe

JOHNSTOWN

Santiagos 12 S. Parish Ave., Johnstown, CO 970-587-4134 www.eatatsantiagos.com/Johnstown Mexican Johnson’s Corner 2842 SE Frontage Rd., Johnstown, CO 970-667-2069 www.johnsonscorner.com Truck Stop/Café

KEENSBURG

Don Juan Mexican Restaurant 106 2nd Ave., La Salle, CO 970-284-6499 Mexican

MEAD

Brick House BBQ 237 4th, Mead, CO 970-535-9040 www.brickhousebbqmead.com BBQ

MILLIKEN

Rollin’ Smoke BBQ 903 Broad St. , Milliken, CO 970-587-4674 BBQ

Korner Kitchen Café 245 Market St., Keenesburg, CO 303-732-1034 www.kornerkitchencafe.com American/Café

NUNN

KERSEY

PIERCE

Kersey Pizza 104 Hill St., Kersey, CO 970-352-1668 www.kerseypizza.com Pizza/Italian

LASALLE

Farmer’s Inn 109 3rd Ave., La Salle, CO 970-284-6100 www.farmersinnmexicanfood.com Mexican

Honey’s Highway Café 979 5th St., Nunn, CO 970-897-2222 American/Café Full Moon Saloon 206 E Main St., Pierce, CO 970-834-2280 American Double Tree 701 Vasquez Blvd., Platteville, CO 970-785-2238 www.thedoubletreerestaurant.com American

exploreweldcounty.com | 23

GREELEY

Cranford Cove Tea Tavern 823 10th St., Greeley, CO 970-515-2664 www.cranfordcove.com Tea Rumi’s House of Kabob 1116 9th St., Greeley, CO 970-353-7864 www.rumishouseofkabob.com Middle Eastern/Persian Red Dogs & Donuts 2608 11th Ave., Greeley, CO 970-353-2400 www.redsdogdanddonuts.com Donuts/Breakfast/Hot dogs Fonta’s 2400 8th Ave., Greeley, CO 970356-9200 www.fontaspizza.com Pizza/Greek/Italian/American Ambrosia Asian Bistro 3636 W 10th St. #1, Greeley, CO 970-392-2925 www.ambrosiaasianbistro.com Asian/Hibachi Tavern at St. Michaels’s Square 2918 67th Ave., Greeley, CO 970-330-2337 www.greeleytavern.com American/Pub Greeley Chophouse 804 8th St., Greeley, CO 970-673-8853 www.greeleychophouse.com Steak House Cables Pub & Grill 1923 59th Ave., Greeley, CO 970-330-4847 www.cablespubandgrill.com Grill/Sports Bar/American/Italian Fat Alberts 1717 23rd Ave., Greeley, CO 970-356-1999 www.fat-alberts.com American Coyotes Southwestern Grill 5250 W 9th St. Dr., Greeley CO 970-336-1725 www.coyotesgreeley.com Mexican/Southwestern Kenny’s Steakhouse 3502 W 10th St., Greeley, CO 970-395-0100 www.kennysteakhouse.com Steak House

24 | discoverweld.com

Pelligrini 2400 17th St., Greeley, CO 970-515-5332 www.pellegrinirestaurnt.com Italain Yolk 801 9th St, Greeley, CO 80631 970-515-5374 www.yolkcolorado.com Breakfast Butters 2170 35th Ave b, Greeley, CO 80634 970-330-8099 www.butterscolorado.com Breakfast and Lunch Santeramos 1229 10th Ave Greeley, CO 80631 970-353-4844 www.santeramos.com Pizza House and Italian Stuft a Burger Bar 819 9th St. Greeley, CO 80631 970-978-4687 www.stuftburgerbar.com Burgers

SEVERENCE

Bruce’s Bar 123 1st St., Severance, CO 970-686-2320 www.brucesbar123.com American

WINDSOR

Stuft a Burger Bar 1294 Main St., Windsor, CO 970-674-5037 www.stuftburgerbar.com Burgers Chimney Park Restaurant & Bar 406 Main St., Windsor, CO 970-686-1477 www.chimneypark.com Fine Dining Hearth Restaurant & Pub 205 4th St., Windsor, CO 970-460-0193 www.hearthrestaurantandpub.com Gastropub Okole Maluna Hawaiin Grill 431 Main St., Windsor, CO 970-686-8844 www.okole-maluna.com Hawaiian

exploreweldcounty.com | 25

Breweries Weld County is home to an exciting and emerging craft brew scene, with breweries from north to south offering a variety of flavors to tempt the most discriminating of palates. Taste the flavors of the seasons or special one-offs that make these breweries stand out among the best, with several award-wining beers on tap.

Brix Taphouse and Brewery 813 8th Street, Greeley 970-397-6146 www.brixtaphouseandbrewery.com

Mash Lab Brewing 4395 Highland Meadows Pkwy, Windsor, 970-685-0334 www.mashlabbrewing.com

Broken Plow Brewery 4731 West 10th Street, Greeley 970-301-4575 www.brokenplowbrewery.com

The Industrial Revolution Brewing Company 285 Cheesman Street, Erie 303-828-1200 www.industrialrevolutionbrewingcompany.com/

Crabtree Brewing Company 2961 29th Street, Greeley 970-356-0516 www.crabtreebrewing.com Echo Brewing Company 5969 Iris Parkway, Frederick 970-445-5969 www.echobrewing.com/ High Hops Brewery 6461 HWY 392, Windsor 970-674-2841 www.highhopsbrewery.com

26 | discoverweld.com

Weld Werks Brewing Company 508 8th Street, Greeley 970-460-6345 www.weldwerksbrewing.com/ Wiley Roots Brewing Company 625 3rd Street, Greeley 970-691-1641 www.wileyrootsbrewing.com/

Distilleries The local distilleries are few but mighty in Weld County, with small business owners honing their crafts with Colorado grains and goods to create some of the best spirits in the state. With distinct flavorings and styles, and a little culture, sample the creativity coming from these local artisans.

Black Canyon Distillery One-of-a-kind whiskeys that have a rich golden color, along with hints of caramel and vanilla flavors extracted from new white oak.

Syntax Spirits This distillery makes all of their smallbatch vodka, whiskey, and rum from scratch, using local ingredients and pure Colorado whitewater.

13710 Deere Court, Longmont 720-204-1909 www.blackcanyondistillery.com

625 C 3rd Street, Greeley 970-325-5466 www.syntaxspirits.com

KJ Wood Distillery Utilizing the Rocky Mountain glacial waters of the high country, blended with the finest of local barley and blue corn for the whiskey and the rarest European juniper berries paired with spices from the Silk Road; a line up of the most refined, elegant and mature spirits.

403 5th Street, Berthoud 303-517-7697 www.kjwooddistillers.com/

exploreweldcounty.com | 27

pla Play in weld county

28 | discoverweld.com

There’s no shortage of places to play in Weld County. From music and concerts, to hiking and bicycling on trails, to small-town festivals, to golf courses, to swimming and water parks, to historic forts and museums, to community parks, to art galleries, to Mother Nature and her finest creations, Weld County offers a typical Colorado playground experience to all who visit or live here.

One of the most unique recreational experiences in Weld County is offered at the Pawnee Buttes and Pawnee National Grassland in northeast Weld. The grasslands are an internationally known birding area and are popular for hiking, shooting, camping , picnicking bicycling and bird-watching. The Pawnee Buttes are a majestic pair of buttes in the middle of the grasslands, rising more than 300 feet above the ground. A 2.5

mile long trail from a parking area leads to the foot of the buttes for a close-up view.

Speakng of the rolling prairie, visitors should certainly check out the Wild Animal Sanctuary in southeast Weld, where more than 400 large carnivores roam in a natural environment. Most of the animals are rescued from abusive or neglectful living situations and are rehabilitated and then released into the sanctuary’s hundreds of natural acres, where visitors can view them in an elevated walkway above the compound.

ay

There’s not a corner of Weld County that doesn’t offer an opportunity for recreation or play.

Be sure to take your time to visit all of our nearly 4,000 square miles and appreciate both the natural and man-made treasures that exist here.

exploreweldcounty.com | 29

Bird Watching

May, June are perfect times for birding in Weld County

By Nikki Work For Explore Weld County

For Norma Erickson, the love of birds started with a love of the outdoors. She was always outside when she was a child, growing up on a farm in Iowa, and seeing wildlife each day was part of her routine.

It wasn’t until after she was grown — and so were her own children — that she started seeing the forest for the birds.

Birding was a hobby that allowed her to appreciate nature as she aged, she said.

She’d travel to nests and habitats around Weld County, binoculars in tow, and just watch.

“Once you become interested in birds, you become interested in butterflies, in mammals, in stars and in geography,” she said. “I loved the outdoors (as a child). I still do.”

May and June are prime birdwatching months in Weld County, particularly on the Pawnee National Grasslands, because it’s migration season. Not only are the birds native to Weld active, such as hawks, burrowing owls, robins and meadowlarks, but rarer species are flying in on their way north.

30 | discoverweld.com

Even for a seasoned birder like Paul Lightsey, organizer of the Greeley Christmas Bird Count, migration is an exciting time. It’s when he can see orioles, sparrows, warblers and tanagers, as well as increased activity from Weld’s native burrowing owls and raptors, since it’s the start of their nesting season on the Pawnee National Grasslands.

The grassland is the ideal place to see a wide range of species, since the habitat has plenty of foliage and few people. It’s also one of the few places in the country where birders can see the Mountain Plover. The Crow Creek Campground near Briggsdale is one of the most popular spots to get the most bird for your buck, Lightsey said, and it’s a good spot for beginners, because they’re almost sure to see something new on their trip.

Though the Pawnee, prairies and farmland surrounding Greeley draw the most diversity, there are also a fair amount of birds within the city, he said. Josephine Jones Park and the Poudre Trail in Greeley have enough open space to draw in both human and avian visitors.

But the species flying in during migration and even the exact timing of their passage is changing year-by-year, Lightsey said. As winters get shorter and weather gets universally warmer across North America, species the experienced birder hasn’t seen in Weld County are starting to show up more often and sooner.

populations have strengthened and starting recovering the losses caused by West Nile Virus in the early 2000s. Developments in technology, such as birdwatching apps, allow for easier identification and more information for birders, which is a huge improvement from only using a bird book, Lightsey said.

He pointed to research from The Audobon Society, a national group dedicated to conservation and preservation of birds and their habitats, that shows that the range and habitats of birds across the country are changing as the climate shifts.

Now, after nearly four decades gone to the birds, Erickson uses a walker and oxygen, and can’t get around the way she used to. She watches a website about birding in the state – CObirds.com — to see what active birders are discovering.

She puts out bird food and bird baths around her home in hopes that she can get a taste of her hobby right in her yard.

On April 1, she saw two red-tailed hawks in her yard, scoping out nesting spots.

If they stay, she’ll watch them all summer.

The Greeley Bird Counts show corroborate this, as new species of songbirds are popping up in Weld County that typically don’t come so far north, he said.

Erickson used to think Memorial Day and Labor Day were two of the best birding days of the year. On Memorial Day in May, the birds are migrating in. By Labor Day, they’re starting to fly out. Now, she’s not sure what days will be best, and she worries this year may be a light year for birdwatchers across the area.

“I’ve known years when we had the drought when they just didn’t come to my yard. I’ve had some years when it’s just been outstanding,” Erickson said. “(This year) it’s so dry, they might just move on.”

The expanding population in Weld County is also cause for concern for birders, she said. Whenever she sees a backhoe digging on ideal bird habitat, it upsets her. When birds migrate, they typically come to the same place they nested the year before. When that space has been developed, they’re pushed to find a different nesting ground, which is often occupied by other birds who won’t share with the strangers.

“We lose that year of birds and perhaps that couple of birds will just eventually die and not reproduce,” Erickson said.

Though her yard and surrounding fields north of Greeley on Colo. 392 used to be a hot spot for birds, she said she’s seen a marked decline in activity.

It’s not all bad, though. In the more than 30 years Erickson has been actively watching birds, the volume of bald eagle nests in northern Colorado have grown and rare birds, such as a woodcock that migrated north to Masonville in late March, provide new sources of wonder and entertainment for birders. The bird

Tips for getting started from the experts

• Get a bird book.

• Make sure you have binoculars.

• Download a birding app to help identify species by more than appearance.

• Learn about your area’s native species, as understanding their qualities will help you learn about and identify rarer birds.

• Find a local birding expert or group and see if you can join them on a trip.

• And ultimately, “Be quiet, patient and watch,” said Paul Lightsey.

Good spots for birding

• Crow Creek Campground — Pawnee National Grasslands near Briggsdale.

In Briggsdale, at intersection of Colo.

14 and Weld County Road 77, take Weld 77 north 0.2 miles to campground sign.

Turn left after sign into campground.

Open April 4 through Nov. 19.

• Bittersweet Park in Greeley, near the water — The park is at the corner of 35th Avenue and 13th Street.

• Carbody Lake — north of Greeley.

• Kodak Watchable Wildlife Area — Poudre Trail, Windsor. To reach this trail head from Windsor, go south on Colo.

257 (Weld County Road 19), just under 2 miles from Main Street, you will see a road heading east. Pull in and the parking lot is easily accessible.

• Windsor Lake, Windsor off of Colo. 257 about a mile north of Colo. 392.

• St. Vrain State Park, Just west of Interstate 25 off of Weld County Road 24, Firestone (Formerly Barbour Ponds). exploreweldcounty.com | 31

Pools For those who feel the call of the water, Weld County answers, with a large variety of recreational and swimming pools. Put on your suits to ride the lazy river, practice your high-diving skills or don the goggles to whip out some laps at these local water recreation centers.

Carbon Valley Recreation Center 701 5th St., Frederick There are three separate bodies of water featuring: • Lap pool with a diving board and rope swing • Lap lane availability is limited so please call ahead at (303) 833-3660.

• Activity pool with fun play features: Lazy river, floating logs, water amenities and frog slide; Two-story body slide • Hot tub with waterfall and jets Cost: Youth/Adult/senior: $3; $4.50; $3.50 (Price increases $2 for those who live out of the district) (303) 833- 3660 Centennial Pool 2315 Reservoir Road, Greeley Open: May 30-Aug. 21 Hours: 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday Cost: youth/senior: $4, adult: $4.50’ $1.50 for children under 5 w/paying adult.

Phone: (970) 330-2837

32 | discoverweld.com

Discovery Bay Water Park 714 E 24th St, Greeley Open: May 30-Aug. 21 Hours: Daily, noon to 5 p.m.

Cost: youth/senior: $4, adult: $4.50’ $1.50 for children under 5 w/paying adult.

The Eaton Area Community Center 1675 3rd St. in Eaton Opening Summer 2017 Family Funplex Treasure Island Indoor Water Park 1501 65th Ave., Greeley Adventure Island and Open Swim Hours: 3:30-8:00 p.m., Monday and Wednesday; 3:30-5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday; 3:309 p.m. Fridays; 11 a.m.- 7 p.m., Saturdays; 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sundays.

Cost: 5 & Under: $1.50; Youth (6-15): $4.50; Adults: $5.50; Military: $3.50; Seniors (60+): $4.50 Fort Lupton Recreation Center Pool 203 S. Harrison Ave., Ft. Lupton The pool are consist of a 4,060-squarefoot, zero-depth-entry leisure pool with an underwater jet bench, lazy river, lap

lanes, 139-foot water slide with four turns, frog slide, vortex pool, hot tub and pool party room.

Open: June 6 Hours: 5:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. MondayThursday; 5:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Friday; 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday; noon-4:30 p.m., Sunday.

Cost: youth/senior: $3, adult: $4.50 (price increases 50 cents - $1 for nonresidents) Phone: 303-857-4200 Ext. 6164 Greeley Recreation Center Pool 651 10th Ave., Greeley Hours: 1-5 p.m., Monday-Sunday; 7:159:30 p.m. Monday-Friday Cost: youth/senior: $2.25, adult: $2.75 Phone: 350-9403 Island Grove Splash Park 302 N. 14th Ave., Greeley Open: May 30-Aug. 21 Hours: 2-5 p.m. daily Cost: Free, daily Rentals available at (970) 336-4265

allows for gradual access to the water, and continues to 5 feet, where 2 slides drop in. Separate baby pool, water geysers and other water features offer fun for all ages.

Pool Hours and Activities: Open Swim: 11a.m.-3:30 p.m.; sunset swim, 7-9 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursdays. Closed Sundays.

Windsor Recreation Center Pool 250 N. 11th St., Windsor Open Swim, slide and play, lazy river, lap swim.

General hours: 5 a.m.- 8 p.m., Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays; noon- 5 p.m. Sundays. (individual area times vary).

Cost: Daily Admission, $3, under 5; youth and seniors $4; Adults, $5.

Phone: (970) 674-3500

Sunrise Splash Park 325 12th St., Greeley.

Open: May 30-Aug. 21 Hours: 1-4 p.m., daily Cost: Free, daily Rentals available at (970) 336-4265 Thompson Rivers Recreation District Open: June 1- Aug. 16 Cost: up to 2, free; 3-15, $3.50; 16-64, $4.50; 65+, $3.50; $12 for family from same household. Lap and sunset swims, $2. Pool rentals available.

Johnstown Pool 616 North 2nd Street, Johnstown (970) 587-6000 This facility provides you with 25 yards of aquatic enjoyment while maintaining the neighborhood swimming hole feel with a diving board, available lap lanes, swim lessons, and separate baby pool.

Pool Hours: Open Swim: Noon-4:30 p.m., open swim; 6-7 p.m., Monday- Thursday; evening lap swim; 7-9 p.m., Monday – Thursday; sunset swim. Closed Sundays.

Milliken Pool 112 Centennial Drive; Milliken (970) 587-9570 This facility provides you with a few newer amenities. The 0 depth entrance

Chimney Park Municipal Pool 421 Chimney Park Drive, Windsor Lap lanes, waterslide, kid pool, Open: May 28-Aug. 17 Open swim hours: 1-5 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays.

Cost: youth/senior: $3.25, 6-17: $3.25, ages 5 and under: $2.25; 18+, $3.50; family of 5, $12.

Phone: (970) 674-0826 Windsor Lake Swimming Beach 100 N. 5th Street Windsor

exploreweldcounty.com | 33

34 | discoverweld.com

GOLF COURSES Fore! Need to get your swing on? Weld County is home to award-winning and challenging golf courses, that will tempt even the most experienced of swings. Amid the backdrops of the majestic Rocky Mountains, these courses will be something to write home about.

Colorado National Golf Club 2700 Vista Parkway, Erie 303-926-1723 www.coloradonationalgolfclub.com Saddleback Golf Course 8631 Frontier Street, Firestone 303-833-5000 www.saddlebackgolf.com Coyote Creek Golf Course 222 Clubhouse Drive, Fort Lupton 303-857-6152 www.coyotecreekgc.com Bella Rosa Golf Course 5830 Bella Rosa Parkway, Frederick 303-678-2940 www.bellarosagolf.com Boomerang Golf Links 7309 West 4th Street, Greeley 970-353-4653 www.greeleygov.com/activities/golf/ boomerang-links

Highland Hills 2200 Clubhouse Drive, Greeley 970-330-7327 www.greeleygov.com/activities/golf/ highland-hills Mad Russian Golf Course 2100 Country Club Parkway, Milliken 970-587-5157 www.madrussiangolf.com Highland Meadows Golf Course 6300 Highland Meadows Pkwy, Windsor 970-204-4653 www.highlandmeadowsgolfcourse.com Pelican Lakes Golf & Country Club 1620 Pelican Lakes Point, Windsor 970-674-0930 www.homesfortcollins.net/Water-Valley-Homes-in-Fort-Collins-MembershipInfo.htm

exploreweldcounty.com | 35

parks

Get out, play, fly a kite, watch a game, visit some historic structures or walk the dog.

There’s enough outdoors in Weld County parks to give visitors plenty of Vitamin D time while relaxing in the fresh air with some good bird-watching to boot. Weld’s parks are well-maintained and havens for communities.

Hawkstone Park, Eaton This 11-acre park has large open play areas, a playground, nine benches arranged along a 1 mile trail and a 2 acre lake www.eatonco.org/parks.htm Erie Community Park, Erie This 41-acre park with walking trails, playground, skate park and playing fields 450 Powers Street www.erieco.gov/847/Erie-Community-Park Pearson Park, Fort Lupton This park has a bike trail, walking path, fields and playground www.fortlupton.org/Facilities/Facility/ Details/Pearson-Park-9 Gilcrest Municipal Park, Gilcrest Contains a playground, paths, a pavilion, picnic benches, pond & basketball court 1211 County Road 31 townofgilcrest.org Island Grove Regional Park, Greeley Paved multi-use recreational trail with ball fields and historic Centennial Village 36 | discoverweld.com

100 North 5th Street www.greeleygov.com/activities/islandgrove Aven’s Village All-inclusive playground geared toward people of all ages and abilities. It includes a mix of sensory, social and physical activities and allows for visitors with various levels of ability to experience similar equipment side-by-side 501 N. 14th Ave www.avensvillage.com Ehrich Lake Park, Milliken This park offers a playground, lake with a fishing dock, picnic tables and a .9 of a mile walking path www.millikenco.gov Lake Park, Johnstown The park has two playgrounds, five picnic pavilions, a walking path around the lake that is 1 mile long and fishing www.townofjohnstown.com/

Hiking & Biking Feel a need for a little pedal action, or walking the wild trails? There’s lots to keep you trekking in Weld County. Weld trails are shared by bikers, hikers, birdwatchers, and nature loves alike, all feeling the call of the outdoors to keep their bodies working out in the fresh air.

Great Western Trail, Windsor Soft surface trail for walkers and fat tire type bikes www.gwtrail.com Poudre River Trail, Greeley A 21-mile paved recreation trail that wanders along the Cache la Poudre River from Greeley to Windsor www.poudretrail.org

Firestone Trail An 8-mile long trail that connects, or runs close to, many small parks, ponds and two shopping areas www.walkridecolorado.com/ Windsor Lake Trail, Windsor This multi-use paved recreational trail is approximately 2.25 miles long.

100 North 5th Street www.windsorgov.com

Sheep Draw Junction, Greeley Paved multi-use recreational trail along the river www.poudretrail.org Centennial Lake, Milliken The lake features a .63 of a mile walking path, picnic tables and is periodically stocked with fish www.millikenco.gov

exploreweldcounty.com | 37

Top kid’s destinations Windsor Lake Swim Beach One of Weld County’s most popular destinations on a hot summer day is the Swim Beach at Windsor Lake. Located on the southwest corner of the lake, the area is marked by ropes and buoys, and attracts hundreds of swimmers on a warm day.

Also available at the lake is boating, kayaking and canoeing, fishing, a dog park (on the north side of the lake), a concession stand, restrooms, a playground and bike/ paddle board rentals. A 2.5 mile trail surrounds the lake, and Windsor Lake is known for its ability to attract white pelicans during summer months.

Miller Farms Miller Farms at Colo. 66 and Colo. 119, about four miles west of Platteville, is a busy place from early spring through late fall. Not only a working farm, Miller Farms is also an educational rural amusement park with a huge playground area, a farmers market when crops are in season, and the opportunity to pick your own produce. Spring and fall festivals are scheduled every year; school tours are frequent; and a petting zoo and Antique Alley provide other opportunities for both education and fun. For more information, go to www.millerfarms.net 38 | discoverweld.com

Ice Haus Greeley’s only ice-skating arena is the center of multiple family activities throughout the year. From public skate sessions, to clinics and classes, to youth hockey leagues and adult hockey tournaments, to cosmic skating with multicolored light effects and music, there is no shortage of activities for young and old alike at the Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave. For more information, go to greeleygov.com/ activities/recreation/facilities/greeleyice-haus Centennial Village One of Weld County’s most popular destinations for families, school groups and kids in general is Centennial Village Museum. Located on the fringes of Island Grove Regional Park in northeast Greeley, Centennial Village is an 8-acre living history experience. Parents will enjoy the more than 35 architecturally unique structures and beautifully landscaped grounds, while kids enjoy the costumed interpreters, heritage farm animals, and multiple interactive experiences. Step back in Weld County’s rich history and learn about the early pioneer settling of the Western high plains, a time when grand houses, growing businesses,

extensive prairies and agriculture were all a part of daily life. For more info, go to greeleymuseums.com/locations/ centennial-village.

Wild Animal Sanctuary Is it one of your favorite family outings?

Well, the Wild Animal Sanctuary near Keenesburg is even better than the zoo, many say, because it shows more than 400 large carnivores roaming freely in a natural habitats. Located on 720 acrs of rolling prairie in southeast Weld County, the sanctuary is home to dozens of rescued animals, including African lions, tigers and bears to wolves, mountain lions, leopards, lynx, bobcats, camels, ostriches and emus — to name only a few. The sanctuary was built with a centralized compound in the middle, and a “Mile Into The Wild Walkway,” which stretches over 5,100 feet in length and gives visitors unprecedented views from above of the animals. The walkway connects to an Education Center and a Bolivian Lion House. For more information, go to: www.wildanimalsanctuary.org Stampede Parade, 4th of July The Greeley Stampede’s 4th of July parade celebrates our nation’s independence and Colorado Western heritage with more than 130 entries and tens of thousands of spectators from all over the state as well as the nation. Included in the parade are floats, bands and equestrian entries from all over Colorado. The parade starts at 9 a.m. Sharp every July 4 and runs along 10th Avenue amid the University of Northern Colorado campus, from 19th to 5th streets. To learn more about the Stampede Parade as well as the full 2016 Stampede schedule, go to www. greeleystampede.org.

FunPlex Some say there isn’t a better place for family fun in Weld County than the Family FunPlex, 1501 65th Ave., Greeley.

Placed within Two Rivers Community Park, which includes a softball complex, picnic shelters, kids’ sensory playground, amphitheater, and trails, the FunPlex itself includes an indoor water park with several slides, miniature golf, fitness center and gymnasium. For more information, go to greeleygov.com/activities/ recreation/facilities/family-funplex

Colorado Model Railroad Museum Hundreds of school children and youth groups, along with their families, annually make a trip to the model train museum in downtown Greeley, 680 10th St. With thousands of miniature trees along with 2,500 railroad cars, realistic looking vehicles and communities and even a forest fire, children and their adult chaperones are awestruck at the detail in this nationally recognized operating model railroad. For more info, go to: www.cmrm.org Poudre Learning Center Located just west of 83rd Avenue at F Street, the Poudre Learning Center attracts about 22,000 visitors a year, many of them children and/or their families. It is the only outdoor education center in Weld County, and offers students a field experience based on the specific grade level of the class. Information about wildlife, soil, plants, raptors, irrigating, groundwater and the nearby Poudre River are all part of the educational opportunities for kids and their families.

For more information, go to www. poudrelearningcenter.org.

Fort Lupton Get a first-hand look at life in the territorial West at historic Fort Lupton and Fort Vasquez. Located just miles from each other on Highway 85 both forts offer a unique experience for visitors.

Fort Lupton’s settlement site features a visitor’s center, the fort, a trapper’s cabin, a school house and the Donelson house. Fort Vasquez features a fort and a museum that details life in west during the 1800s. Please contact each facility for hours and details when planning your visit.

exploreweldcounty.com | 39

unique Nowhere else in the country can visitors see Weld County’s most unique assets. The Pawnee National Grasslands in northern Weld County covers thousands of miles of open space, picturesque buttes among serene grasslands and plentiful bird-watching. In the southern portion of the county, meet a little of the county’s wild side at the Wild Animal Sanctuary, home to bears, tigers and lions rescued from through the world to roam Weld’s semi-arid prairies.

Pawnee National Grassland The Pawnee National Grassland is 193,060 acres contained within a 30-by60 mile area. The rich history of the The Pawnee Buttesarea is represented by old homesteads, cemeteries and nearby museums. The network of numbered forest service and county roads will take you within easy walking distance of almost all parts of the grassland. Pawnee National Grassland is not only an internationally known birding area but also a wonderful spot for hiking, camping, picnicking, horseback riding and stargazing. While at the grassland keep an eye out for a few of the species that make the grassland their home.

There are many activities to do while visiting the Pawnee National Grasslands including: biking, bird watching, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, horse riding, off highway vehicle riding, outdoor learning, picnicking, rocks and minerals, 40 | discoverweld.com

scenic drives, target shooting and water activities.

Most areas of national forests and grasslands are open, free of charge, for your use and enjoyment. Fees or permits may be required for use of some areas, specific facilities or services. Click here for more information about passes and permits.

Pawnee National Grassland ranger district office is located at 660 “O” Street, Greeley, Colorado 80631 970-346-5000.

Wild Animal Sanctuary The Wild Animal Sanctuary is all about saving animals who are victims of America’s “Captive Wildlife Crisis!” They travel across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central & South America and the rest of the world rescuing captive exotic and endangered large carnivores who have been abused, abandoned, exploited or illegally kept. Their goal for the ani-

to weld mals they rescue is to give them a life of dignity and respect, and make their life like it would be if they could choose.

Established by Executive Director Pat Craig in 1980, The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a state and federally licensed zoological facility and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is located on rural, rolling grasslands, comprising 720 acres and sheltering more than 350+ large carnivores include tigers, African lions, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, leopards, wolves, servals, bobcats, foxes, lynx, coyote, coati mundi, raccoon, porcupine, ostrich, emu, camel, alpaca, horses and rescued dogs.

Throughout the summer the Wild Animal Sanctuary has many events and fundraisers, click here for information.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is located at 1946 County Road 53, Keenesburg, Colorado 80643 303-536-0118.

Historic Fort Lupton The historic fort offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life as it was during the early 1800s.

2001 Historical Parkway, Fort Lupton

303-857-1710 www.spvhs.org/ Fort St. Vrain Fort St. Vrain Fort was built in the early 1800s near the present-day location of the town of Platteville. While visitors can tour two of Weld County’s original fur trading forts, Fort St. Vrain is now marked by a stone monument.

To visit the monument, take Weld County Road 40 west from Highway 85. The road, which passes through private property so please be mindful and respectful, deadends at the monument.

Fort Vasquez Museum The museum located at Fort Vasquez has numerous displays depicting life on prairie in the late 1800s.

Visit the 1835 fur-trading fort and follow the paths of founders Louis Vasquez and Andrew Sublette.

13412 US Highway 85, Platteville 970-785-2832 www.historycolorado.org/museums/ fort-vasquez-museum

exploreweldcounty.com | 41

fishing Centennial Lake Centennial Lake is located off of Centennial Drive, South of Colo. 60. This lake is located on the east side of town, near the Weld County RE5J School Administration Building and the Milliken Water Works Pool. The lake has a walking trail that is .63 of a mile long and encircles the entire lake. The lake is periodically stocked with fish and funded through a grant by the Colorado Division of Wildlife. Features include: Picnic tables, walking trail and restrooms.

Ehrlich Lake Ehrlich Lake is located off of Alice Avenue in the Colony Point Subdivision on Green Street and Saddleback in Milliken. It has a walking trail that is .9 of a mile long, that encircles the entire lake. The lake is periodically stocked with fish by the Colorado Division of Wildlife and plays host to the town’s Annual Kids Fishing Derby in May. Lake features include playground, fishing dock/pier, picnic tables and restrooms.

Lake Park, Johnstown (Johnstown Reservoir) From Interstate 25, take Colo. 60 east to High Plains Boulevard, turn right onto Rocksbury Lane in Johnstown. Lake Park will be straight ahead, and street parking is available in subdivisions surrounding 42 | discoverweld.com

reservoir.

Features include: Five picnic shelters with electricity, one with rest rooms; two playgrounds; walking path around the lake that is a little over 1 mile long; portable bathrooms; fishing - permit required; swimming or boating is not allowed; alcoholic beverages and firearms are not allowed.

Mead Ponds 1501 Weld County Road 34, Mead Fishing, picnic tables, restrooms, shelter, and trails. Fishing Derby, May 20.

8-9 a.m., free clinic put on by the Division of Wildlife; 9-11 a.m., fishing derby; 11-11:30, lunch and prizes. Kids get a free fishing pole. All 16 and over must have a valid Colorado fishing license to fish; or by a one-day pass for $5.

Poudre Ponds Recreational Fishery 35th Avenue just north of F Street, in north Greeley.

This park has been funded in part by Colorado anglers through the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s “Fishing is Fun” program and the Federal Sport Fishing Restoration Program.

This area along the Poudre River includes a parking area with a restroom, a boat ramp, picnic areas and ADA piers. Boating is allowed for gas-free boats under 17 feet in length. Boating and fishing

holes permits are required.

St. Vrain State Park 3785 Weld County Road 24 ½, Firestone (just off Interstate 25 and Colo. 119 exit) Daily Park pass: $7 The ponds offer Bluegill, White Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Red Ear Sunfish, Yellow Perch, Saugeye, Northern Pike, Channel Catfish and Rainbow Trout. Trout fishing is excellent during the spring and fall.

When the fish are biting, the park is a great place to teach children how to fish. Bowfishing for Carp, Suckers and Northern Pike is permissible with a valid fishing license.

Dogs are welcome throughout the park as long as they are on a six foot or shorter leash at all times and their waste is properly disposed of.

Vessels that are hand or foot propelled, or with electric trolling motors are permitted on the ponds when there is open water.

Gas powered motors are permitted on Blue Heron Reservoir; but must be under 10 horsepower and operated at wakeless speeds. There is a boat ramp, trailer parking, and restrooms available for boaters on Blue Heron Reservoir.

Union Reservoir (Calkins Lake) 461 Weld County Road 26, Longmont Daily Vehicle fee: $8

7 a.m.- 7 p.m., through April 30; 6 a.m.-9 p.m., May 1- Labor Day Union Reservoir is fast becoming one of Colorado’s finest Walleye fisheries. Walleye 17-24 inches are common. In recent years, Union Reservoir has become the hotspot for fly fishermen who enjoy the thrill of catching the hard fighting Carp.

In addition, a healthy population of Trout, Crappie, Catfish, Bass, Sunfish, Wiper and Tiger Muskie provide a quality fishing experience. Fishing is available along the majority of the shoreline or from a boat. Colorado fishing regulations are enforced and a fishing license is required.

A fish cleaning station and handicapped accessible fishing pier are provided for your convenience.

Windsor Lake Located at Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th Street, Windsor.

The Windsor Lake is generally stocked with Yellow Perch Fingerling, Blue Gill, Channel Catfish and Trout.

Absolutely no fishing off the dock or on the swim beach.

Night fishing is allowed on the west side of Windsor Lake from the south end of the parking lot on Colo. 257 north to the inlet bridge of the lake only.

Fisherman must actively attend their line in the water.

A valid fishing license is required. exploreweldcounty.com | 43

museums “Go West, young man!” New York editor Horace Greeley sent Nathan Meeker and the Union Colony west with the phrase in 1865, ushering in a history today that is now beyond compare. Visitors can immerse themselves in Western expansion through the likes of Rattlesnake Kate and Nathan Meeker, and the many historic places throughout the county that stand as living testaments to a wild and colorful history.

Eaton House Museum Artifacts from the founding days of Eaton and exhibits featuring the Spanish American War, WW I, WW II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan War. 207 Elm Ave, Eaton 970-454-3338 www.eatonco.org/eaton-house-museum.htm Spirit of Flight Center Hundreds of rare items and artifacts are on display of vintage and corporate aviation while promoting the love of flight.

2650 South Main St. Bldg. A, Erie 303-460-1156 www.spiritofflight.com Donelson House Built after the South Platte River flood of 1864, the house has been restored to an 1893 photograph. The Donelson House also periodically hosts afternoon teas.

2001 Historical Parkway, Fort Lupton 720-514-1833 www.spvhs.org Fort Lupton Museum Extensive archives of family histories, cemetery records, business documents, and photos from Fort Lupton as far back as the 1800s 44 | discoverweld.com

453 First St., Fort Lupton 303-857-1634 www.fortlupton.org/157/Museums Historic Fort Lupton The historic fort offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life as it was in during the early 1800s.

2001 Historical Parkway, Fort Lupton 303-857-1710 www.spvhs.org Miners Memorial Museum The Miners Memorial Museum highlights southern Weld County’s rich mining history.

143 5th St., Frederick 720-382-5500 www.frederickco.gov/717/Miners-MemorialMuseum Centennial Village Step back in time with an 8 acre living history museum allowing visitors to experience Northern Colorado as it was over 100 years ago.

1475 A St., Greeley 970-350-9220 www.greeleymuseums.com/locations/ centennial-village/

Colorado Model Railroad Museum This museum features over 600 railroad-related artifacts ranging from a Virginia and Truckee Railroad switch key to a full-sized Colorado and Southern wooden Caboose.

680 10th Street, Greeley 970-392-2934 www.gfsm.org/pcindex.html Greeley History Museum Exhibits telling the story of Greeley and Weld County.

714 8th St., Greeley 970-350-9220 www.greeleymuseums.com/locations/ greeley-history-museum/ Meeker Home Experience the home of the founding family of Greeley as it would have appeared in the late 1800s.

1324 9th Ave., Greeley 970-336-4189 www.greeleymuseums.com/meeker-home/ Plumb Farm A Colorado Centennial Farm that’s been in the same family for over a hundred years.

955 39th Ave., Greeley 970-350-9275 www.greeleymuseums.com/locations/whiteplumb-farm-learning-center/ Grover Depot Museum Tales of boom and bust and the railroads.

Grover http://groverlibrary.8m.com/grover.html Parish House Museum Home of the founders of Johnstown, Harvey J. and Mary Parish. The main level provides a glimpse of life in the early 1900s and on the lower level there are displays featuring facets of life in Johnstown.

701 Charlotte St., Johnstown 970-350-9275 www.johnstownhistoricalsociety.org/

Kersey Historical Museum Dedicated to the history of Kersey 413 1st St., Kersey (In back of the Library) 970-347-7357 www.townofkersey.com/ Northern Drylanders Museum The Northern Drylanders Museum showcases life on the grasslands in northern Weld County. A museum organized to study, record, preserve and share the history of Northern Weld County.

755 Third St., Nunn 970-897-3125 www.highplainshistory.homestead.com/ Fort Vasquez Museum In addition to a replica fort, Fort Vasquez is also home to a museum and gift shop.

Visit the 1835 fur-trading fort and follow the paths of founders Louis Vasquez and Andrew Sublette.

13412 US Highway 85, Platteville 970-785-2832 www.historycolorado.org/museums/fortvasquez-museum Platteville Pioneer Museum Artifacts, family histories, pictures and other memorabilia of the people of the Platteville area 502 Marion, Platteville 970-381-1105 www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/ platteville Town of Windsor Museum Masterfully refurbished and restored, the buildings are original to Windsor and represent chapters in town history 100 North 5th St., Windsor 970-674-2443 www.windsorgov.com Windsor Art & Heritage Center A hub for arts, culture, and history in 116 5th St., Windsor 970-674-2443 www.windsorgov.com/

13412 U. S. Highway 85 Platteville, CO 80651 970-785-2832 OPEN DAILY • 10 AM - 4 PM exploreweldcounty.com | 45

Hidden Jewel, Frederick Miners Memorial, just a stone’s throw from Interstate 25 in south Weld County

By Kelli Heitstuman-Tomko For Explore Weld County

The Miners’ Memorial Museum in Frederick has a story to tell.

A small community of just over 10,000 people, Frederick is easily missed by travelers coming and going along the busy lanes of nearby Interstate 25, about 30 minutes north of Denver. Founded in 1907, and new by the standard of other

mining-based communities such as Denver and Boulder, the town is proud of its history. Crist Park and the Miner’s Memorial Museum on Fifth Street will tell you just how much.

The museum is housed in Frederick’s original city hall, a small, white, falsefronted building that typifies the Old West. Town clerk Meghan Martinez said the building had fallen into disrepair over the years.

“It had really just become storage,” Martinez said.

A brick sculpture in Crist Park near the Miners’ Memorial Museum in Frederick, Colo. shows the immigrant roots of Frederick. The sculpture also shows the importing grapes for making wine, a pastime still enjoyed by locals.

46 | discoverweld.com

But the building got a new lease on life when the town received a State Historic Fund Grant in 1999 to refurbish it. The attached jail was destroyed and the remainder of the building was moved a few blocks west to its current resting place on the edge of Crist Park. It was at

A memorial wall outside the Miners’ Memorial Museum on Fifth Street in Frederick, Colo. lists the names of those who worked the coal mines on which the community of Frederick was built.

that point the Miners’ Memorial Museum was established inside the old City Hall.

The museum was put on the list of United States National Historical Landmarks in 2012.

“We really credit Mike and Liberta Hattel for founding the museum,” Martinez said. “They’ve been really passionate about this.”

Martinez said the Hattels also were instrumental in starting the Miners’ Day celebration held every September. This year will mark the celebration’s 15th year.

Not only have both Hattels sat separately on the museum’s board of directors, they also had local knowledge of other residents who had mining memorabilia left over from the days when parents or grandparents worked the coal mines.

They reached out to those residents for donations and items to place in the tiny museum.

The walls in the back room of the museum are lined with odd tools, drills that were placed against the chest of a miner as he turned the drill with his hands.

“They used the them to drill holes into the coal for dynamite,” Megan Williams,

Frederick’s community relations manager, said. “It’s how you mined the coal.”

Mining was an inherently dangerous job, Williams said, with the risk of black lung — a disease caused by breathing in coal dust — and work with dynamite in underground tunnels and shafts, all while wearing what amounted to an open flame in an atmosphere filled with flammable dust. Cave-ins were always a risk.

“There were no cell phones, no way to communicate,” Williams said. “Families never knew if miners would be coming home at the end of the day.”

Among the museum’s mine-related items, the drills, pictures of grimy miners, the covered tin lunch pails and a miniature mining town, is an oddity. It’s a wine press. Frederick is a town born of immigration. Greeks, Turks, and Czechs all came to Colorado to work the mines, but the bulk of Frederick’s immigrants were Italians with a passion for good wine. The new residents imported grapes via the railroad and continued their culture of wine stomping and tastings. According to Williams, there are residents in town that still make their own wine.

While the museum is small, it drives exploreweldcounty.com | 47

The Miners’ Memorial Museum in Frederick, Colo. is housed in the town’s original City Hall building on Fifth Street. An installation of statues shows a miner arriving home to his family at the end of the day.

home the point that the community was built on the dreams of immigrants who came to America for a better life, and that they risked their lives in the mines every day in a life that modern Americans can barely imagine now. A wall on the far side of the park lists the names of Frederick’s miners, and common surnames are immediately evident. Fathers, sons and brothers all worked together in the mines and in building the community.

Because the museum doesn’t have a manager, the building remains closed most of the time. It is open for specific events throughout the summer, during the Farmers’ Market and for the annual Miners’ Day celebration. But, Martinez said, the museum isn’t limited to those hours.

“Just call me (at City Hall), and tell me when you’re coming, and I’ll come down and open the door,” Martinez said. “I’ve gotten calls where someone has told me, ‘I’m standing at the museum right now, can you open it for us?’ I always do.”

Information on festival dates can be found on the Frederick town webpage, http://www.frederickco.gov.

Miners Day Time: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

When: Saturday, September 16, 2017 48 | discoverweld.com

Where: Crist Park, 105 5th St. Frederick, CO 80530 Miners Day is one of Frederick’s premier annual community events drawing thousands of people to Downtown Frederick for family-oriented fun and entertainment throughout the day. While the event has grown in increasing popularity since its inception in 2003, it continues to offer a small-town feel in celebration of our community’s mining heritage and provides a rich and lively environment for residents, businesses, schools, and community groups from throughout the region to come together for a day of fun.

The event includes a dynamic parade, exhibitor booths, food/refreshment vendors, car show, activities, contests, and live entertainment throughout the day. Per tradition, Miners Day concludes with a spectacular evening concert and fireworks display.

Stop by the Miners Day beer garden to enjoy Echo Brewing Beer, Wild Cider and wine from the Infinite Monkey Theorem winery, based out of Denver. The beer garden is cash only and you must bring your ID to drink (no exceptions). The area is open to all ages, but only folks with an ID will be permitted to drink.

exploreweldcounty.com | 49

entertainment & events Copa de Greeley soccer tournament. Visit cincodemayogreeley.com for more information.

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Location: Island Grove Park Address: 501 N. 14th Ave. More Info: http://greeleycalendar.com

Race Day Colorado National Speedway Saturday evenings, April through September with 6:30 p.m. starts.

Check website http://www.coloradospeedway.com/

MAY 5/5/2017 - 5/6/2017 Greeley Cinco de Mayo The Cinco de Mayo Festival held in Greeley is one of the largest multicultural festivals in Colorado. The festival will take place on Saturday, May 6th, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Greeley’s Island Grove Regional Park. 2017 marks the 32nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Greeley Fiesta and it’s going to be a celebration, to say the least. This year, the festivities will include live music, a kids play area that includes three “bouncy” houses, contests, beauty pageant and enough food vendors to satisfy the most insatiable appetite. Before the Festival the Fiesta 5K takes place and the yearly car show attracts enthusiasts and dreamers alike. This year will be extra special with the first annual 50 | discoverweld.com

5/6/2017 Ft. Lupton Heritage Fair The Fort Lupton Heritage Fair brings the past alive, and the Tenth Annual Heritage Fair will be bigger and better than ever. The event is set up as a historical timeline with re-enactor camps spanning the Vikings up through World War II. Each group is staffed with individuals that are most enthusiastic about their own special time and place and they’ve gone to great lengths to o ensure that their persona, clothing, gear and equipment are as accurate as possible.

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: Historic Fort Lupton Address: CR 14 1/2, north of Ft. Lupton, approx. 3/4 mile west of the intersection of HWY 85 More Info: www.spvhs.org/heritage-fair.html

Time: Check website Location: Centennial Village Address: 1475 A St. More Info: https://visitgreeley.org

JUNE

5/19/2017 - 5/21/2017 Erie Erie Town Fair & Balloon Festival Be sure to stop by to see an artistic evolution of student art in the K-12 show, Putting Your Best Foot Forward, located at the Academy of Natural Therapy at 625 8th Ave. Enjoy live music and take part in our hands-on community art project! All ages and abilities welcome!

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location: This event occurs at 3 locations throughout the weekend: Historic Downtown Erie; Coal Creek Park, 575 Kattell; Colorado National Golf Club - Hwy 7 More Info: http://www.eriechamber.org 5/20/2017 Greeley Learn to Fly Day Annual aviation event in partnership with Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1117 for all that love to fly. Join us at the Greeley-Weld County Airport for hands-on event stations, learning and exploring surrounded by airplanes.

Time: check website Location: Greeley - Weld County Airport Address: 600 Airport Rd #A More Info: https://visitgreeley.org

5/27/2017 - 5/28/2017 Greeley Centennial Celebration at Centennial Village Step back in time to Colorado’s Centennial Decade, 1866-1876. Learn about each of the homes, their original locations and when they were moved to Centennial Village. Native American tipis, buffalo soldiers, blacksmithing, timber cutting, and home tours will be part of the festivities. The museum is open Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. Admission is $8 adults, $6 Seniors (65+), and $5 children (3-17). Family Rate: $18 (max. of 5 people).

6/3/2017 Berthoud Berthoud Day Enjoy a parade, music, local vendors, food and fun at Berthoud’s 63rd Annual Celebration of it’s Township!

Time: All Day Location: Historic Downtown Berthoud Address: Fickel Park (N. 7th Ave.) and Pioneer Park (E Indiana Ave.) More Info: www.berthoudcolorado.com 6/3/2017 Keenesburg The Wild Animal Sanctuary: Into the Wild 5K “The “”TIRELESS TIGER”” is a 10K competition race that is officially timed and runs a beautiful course that winds through the Sanctuary grounds. The “”LIMITLESS LION”” is a 5K competition race that is officially timed and runs a beautiful course that winds though the Sanctuary grounds. The “”JAGUAR JAUNT”” is a fun and relaxing 5K walk (or run if you want) for individuals, families or groups of friends that want to spend a Saturday morning walking across the Sanctuary’s 720 acres of open grassland - as the course weaves between natural habitats filled with rescued animals.

Professionally-Timed Events Time: 7:00 a.m.

Location: The Wild Animal Sanctuary Address: 2999 WCR 53 www.runintothewild.org/ 6/3/17 Johnstown Johnstown BBQ Day This annual event has taken on many different names of the past century starting with Dairy Day in 1912, then Crazy Day in 1963, then Barbecue Day in 1969. One thing, however, remained the same: bring the community together to celebrate life in Johnstown, Colorado! Today the event includes a fireman’s breakfast, a 5K, a parade, family games, food booths and craft fair, musical entertainment, BBQ of course, and fireworks.

Time: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location: Parish Park Address: 300 Charlotte St. More Info: http://www.johnstownbbqday.org

exploreweldcounty.com | 51

6/10/2017 Erie Erie Brewfest This is the Chamber’s 5th Annual OUTDOOR BREWFEST held in Historic Downtown Erie on Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt.

30 Local Colorado Breweries; Regional Food Trucks; Music by local groups.

Time: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: Historic Downtown Erie Address: Briggs Street, between Moffatt & Wells, Erie, CO More Info: www.eriechamber.org

6/10/2017 Greeley Greeley Blues Jam The Greeley Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Blues Jam with the City of Greeley. This annual event “ain’t nothin’ but a party” from Friday evening through Saturday night the second weekend in June. Friday, you can enjoy 10 hours of free blues in 14 bars and restaurants following the plaza concert.

Downtown Greeley. Then, on Saturday, you’ll experience all day performances on two stages, plus the Blues 101 stage, at the Island Grove Regional Park Arena, covered in sod for your comfort. The Blues Jam offers a family oriented atmosphere where everyone can expect a wonderful Blues experience, and learn a little bit, too. You can bring a picnic or taste great food and drink from our vendors.

Be sure to take home some official Blues Jam merchandise as a memento of the day. Learn more at GreeleyBluesJam.com.

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Location: Island Grove Regional Park Arena

Address: 501 N. 14th Ave. More Info: http://greeleybluesjam.com 6/17/2017 - 6/18/2017 Grover Earl Anderson Memorial Rodeo Every year the small ranching community of Grover, Colorado comes together on Father’s Day weekend to pay tribute to a rodeo icon described by his friend, the late Eddie Hannah as, “A Man’s Man and A Cowboy’s Cowboy”.

Today the Grover Community club, many members of which are Earl Anderson’s friends and family, produce the “Biggest Little Rodeo in the West” in his honor.

Time, Address, Location: Check website More Info: http://www.groverrodeo.com 6/23/2017 - 6/25/2017 Frederick Frederick in Flight - Hot Air Balloon Festival Join the Town of Frederick as we celebrate the many forms of flight in June with a hot air balloon lift, glow party, and tons of fun for the whole family! The balloons lift at daybreak, weather permitting. The Glow Party will take place on Saturday evening from 6-10pm at Centennial Park and will feature live music, food vendors, beer and wine garden, kids activities, and hot air balloons candlesticking and glowing (weather permitting). In addition, we are very excited to partner with the Carbon Valley Relay for Life to host their silent auction in the beer garden. This event requires a lot of work to get it off the ground - consider volunteering to help make it run more smoothly!

Friday: Balloon lift at daybreak at Centennial Park / Balloon Glow in evening at Centennial Park - 6pm-10pm Saturday: Balloon lift at daybreak at Centennial Park Sunday: Balloon lift at daybreak at Centennial Park Times: Check website Location: Centennial Park Address: 630 8th St. More Info: http://www.frederickco.gov/

September 15-17 KERSEY • KEENESBURG • BRUSH

3-DAY TOUR:

177 Miles 2,671’ Elevation Gain 52 | discoverweld.com

Online registration at www.pedattheplains.com

6/23/17-7/4/17 Greeley Greeley Stampede Colorado’s premier western summer celebration. The 96th Annual Greeley Stampede is June 23-July 4, 2017, and features rodeos, concerts, carnival so much more!

Times: Check website for full event schedule Location: Island Grove Regional Park Address: 600 N. 14th Ave. More Info: http://www.greeleystampede.org/ 6/30/2017 Greeley Weld County Court House 100th Anniversary Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the state’s most beautiful courthouse. Join us in Greeley for a proclamation reading, refreshments and tours prior to Greeley’s Friday Fest.

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Location: Weld County Courthouse Address: 901 9th Ave. More Info: www.discoverweld.com

July 7/4/2017 Erie Colorado Firecracker 4 mile and 4K The Colorado Firecracker Run 4 Mile, 4K, and Kids Run is ‘THE’ Colorado 4th of July Classic!

Known for its laid back atmosphere, super comfy event shirts, amazing crawfish boil, Free Pabst, and the Red, White, and Blue Snow party with a Slip’N Slide finish line...

The whole family is sure to make this a great tradition on your 4th of July weekend!

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Erie Community Park Address: 4501 Powers St. More Info: http://www.eriechamber.org 7/4/17 Greeley Independence Day Parade and Fireworks The Greeley Stampede 4th of July parade is a traditional event that brings families back year after year. The parade showcases over 130 entries and attracts tens of thousands of eager spectators. Floats, bands and equestrian entries from all over Colorado and many surrounding states come together to celebrate our Nation’s Independence and

Colorado’s Western heritage. The parade runs north along historic 10th Avenue starting amidst the beautiful University of Northern Colorado campus at 19th Street and ending on 5th Street beyond historic Lincoln Park. The parade kicks off at 9 a.m. sharp on Tuesday, July 4th and will be led by this year’s Grand Marshals. We look forward to seeing you along the route.

The Greeley Stampede will feature a large 4th of July firework display during the 96th annual celebration. The displays will be shot over the north-west corner of Island Grove Park. Catch great views from anywhere in Island Grove Park!

Parade Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Parade Location: 10th Avenue in Greeley Fireworks Time: approximately 9:30 p.m.

Fireworks Location: Island Grove Regional Park www.greeleystampede.org 7/4/2017 Mead Bike Parade Bring your bicycle, tricycle, wagon and/or scooter (non-motorized only); decorating materials provided Time: 9:30 a.m.

Location: Founders Park Pavilion Address: 441 3rd St. More Info: http://www.townofmead.org 7/4/2017 Firestone 4th At Firestone The 4th at Firestone has become not only Firestone’s premier annual community event, but also a regional attraction to celebrate America’s birthday. This event has continued to increase in participation, drawing thousands of people to Firestone for familyoriented fun and entertainment throughout the day. The day includes a huge parade, live music, free activities, a classic car show, beer garden, fireworks and more!

Time: 10:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m.

Location: Miners Park Address: 170 Grant Ave. More Info: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ 7/4/2017 Fort Lupton 4th of July Festival Food, family, fireworks, and FUN! This is a great all day event.

Time: All Day Location: Fort Lupton Rec. Center Address: 203 S. Harrison Ave. More Info: http://www.fortlupton.org

exploreweldcounty.com | 53

7/4/2017 Windsor July 4th Activities The Four-Legged Fun Run, a dog-friendly race around Windsor Lake, begins at 8 a.m. with a registration starting at 7 a.m. $20 covers entry fee and exclusive race T-Shirt, pre-register by 8 a.m. on July 3rd for a $5 discount. For event registration please visit windsorgov.com/ recreg. Windsor Lake offers boating, fishing and a swim beach. Something for everyone!

Local and regional food trucks will be onsite serving up some great food! A dazzling fireworks show around 9:30 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring picnic baskets, lawn chairs and blankets for their convenience and comfort.

Time: all day Location: Windsor Lake Address: 100 N. 5th St. More Info: http://windsorgov.com/ 7/14/2017 - 7/16/2017 LaSalle LaSalle Days Friday night, July 14: Horseshoes in the Park; Saturday morning, July 15: Fun Run, Parade; Saturday afternoon: Adult Mud Vball at Baseball fields, Vendors at Main Park; Saturday night: Don Juan’s dinner, band, dancing, fireworks at Community Center; Sunday, July 16: Adult Softball Tournament at Baseball fields.

Times, Location and Address: Check website More Info: http://www.lasalletown.com 7/15/2017 Greeley Nathan Meeker’s 200th Birthday Happy birthday Mr. Meeker! Join the City of Greeley Museums for a celebration of historic note… Our founder’s 200th birthday! Enjoy games, cake, tea and cookies in celebration of Nathan Meeker.

Time: Check website Location: Meeker Home Museum Address: 1324 9th Ave. More Info: https://visitgreeley.org

7/19/2017 - 7/22/2017 Frederick Chainsaws and Chuckwagons Only the most masterful chainsaw carvers can turn giant logs into beautiful works of 54 | discoverweld.com

art and we’re bringing them to Frederick to compete against each other! The carving competition will take place on Main Street in Downtown Frederick and there will be live music and food trucks, or Chuckwagons as we like to call them, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights! On Saturday, July 22nd bring the whole family to Crist Park to see the completed wood carvings, vote for your favorite and see the winners announced while enjoying live music and fun activities! The Carbon Valley Chamber of Commerce is also bringing the CO Craft Beer Round Up to Crist Park on the 22rd for beer-loving adults.

Time: All Day Location: Main St. Downtown Frederick Address: 105 5th St. More Info: http://www.frederickco.gov 7/22/2017 Keenesburg The Wild Animal Sanctuary Wheels 4 Wildlife More than 10 acres of display space – so there’s room for every kind of vehicle out there! Whether you have an antique Model A... a Muscle Car from the sixties... a deckedout Motorcycle... a Monster Truck... a really cool Bicycle... an ATV... a Tractor... or belong to a special Club that wants to come... we have a FREE space for you to display your awesome ride! Everyone is welcome! There is no registration fee, and there will be lots of great awards, trophies, and medals given to a wide variety of classes and crowd favorites. Custom T-shirts will be available, and lots of displays, vendors and great food & drink will be on hand as well. So make a day of it and come in your favorite ride to either display, or just enjoy viewing what everyone else brought to the party!

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: The Wild Animal Sanctuary Address: 2999 WCR 53 More Info: http://www.wheelsforwildlife. online/event 7/22/2017 - 7/31/2017 Greeley Weld County Fair The Weld County Fair is an annual free event held the last week in July. Our fair is open to the public and boasts a variety of displays and contests. The fair gives the youth and adults of Weld County an opportunity to exhibit their skills in a wide variety of areas including agriculture, livestock, natural resources, engineering, consumer and family, fine arts, horticulture and family living. The Fair is planned and presented by a volunteer board appointed by the Weld County Commissioners, along with the Weld County Fair Coordinator and Fair Secretary. Colorado State University Extension Agents serve as educational advisors to the fair.

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Location: Island Grove Regional Park Address: 501 N. 14th Ave. More Info: http://www.weldcountyfair.com 7/29/2017 - 7/30/2017 Greeley Greeley Arts Picnic Every year on the last weekend in July, Arts Picnic draws thousands to historic Lincoln Park. Festival attendees shop from over 150 artists’ booths selling everything from pottery and paintings, soap to sculptures and gourmet food to garden art! Folks can take a break in the beer garden or enjoy mouth-watering cuisine from around the world including French, Greek, Mexican, Middle Eastern and Italian, plus good old American BBQ in the food court. Colorado performers entertain on two stages throughout the weekend while clowns, magicians and balloon artists rove through the park. Creation Station’s kids’ hands-on area keeps the little-ones busy with projects that encourage creativity and excite the imagination. The Arts Picnic is truly a feast of fun for everyone!

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sat., and 9:00 a.m.

- 4:00 p.m. Sun. Location: Lincoln Park Address: 802 10th Ave. More Info: http://greeleygov.com/activities/ arts-picnic

August 8/1/2017 - 8/5/2017 Greeley High Plains Chautauqua Program scholars bring life to historical

and/or literary figures through first-person portrayals, in the largest tent Chautauqua in the nation. Encompassing next year’s theme “Echoes of World War I,” Chautauqua features portrayals of Ataturk, Woodrow Wilson, Emma Goldman, General John Pershing, Herbert Hoover, Erich Maria Remarque, Sgt. Henry Johnson, Winston Churchill, Edith Wharton, and several characters from the Legendary Ladies. Day programs include Young Chautauquans, coffee with scholars and adult programs. Evening programs also include music prior to the main presentation.”

Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location: Aims Community College - Greeley Campus Address: 5401 W. 20th St. More Info: https://visitgreeley.org/ 8/12/2017 Erie Erie Air Fair 8AM Pancake Breakfast hosted by: Mountain View Fire Rescue & United Power. Static Aviation & Auto Displays, Interactive Kids Adventure Zone, Helicopter and Fixed-Wing Aircraft rides available for purchase, Live Music.

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: Erie Municipal Airport Address: Hwy 7 and County Line Road More Info: http://www.eriechamber.org 8/19/2017 Windsor 6th Annual Front Range Wine Festival The Front Range Wine Festival will feature over 30 Colorado Wineries from the Front Range, Denver and the Western Slope. Enjoy complimentary tastings and if you find one you like, purchase a glass or bottle to enjoy with friends!

Time: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Location: Main Park Address: 300 Locust St, Windsor More Info: www.frontrangewinefestival.com

THE CITY OF GREELEY AND THE GREELEY CHAMBER PRESENTS

“IT AIN’T NOTHIN’ BUT A PARTY”!

June 9th

in Downtown Greeley 5 pm to 12 am

June 10th

at Island Grove Arena 11 am to 11 pm

greeleybluesjam.com exploreweldcounty.com | 55

Greeley Stampede Get ready for a wild two weeks in 2017

By Dan England and Kelly Ragan For Explore Weld County

The Greeley Stampede’s 2017 concert lineup features two long-time countrymusic veterans surrounded by two up-and-coming acts, plus a 1990s smash sensation and a intensely popular Christian rock group. Chase Rice, LOCASH, Toby Keith and Clay Walker, Barenaked Ladies and TobyMac will headline the 2017 summer concert lineup. The country line-up is a healthy mix of old and new.

By numbers alone, Keith is the biggest name of the series. He’s sold more than 40 million albums and has had 21 No. 1 hits, including his signature hit, “How Do You Like Me Now?” He’s released 17 studio albums and two Christmas albums. He’s known for his down-to-earth, outgoing and outspoken partying personality.

Trent Johnson, the night show chairman whose job it is to book the shows, said Keith’s concert “will be the biggest of the summer.” He said the last time the Stampede had him was in the early 2000s. He called Keith the anchor of the concert package.

56 | discoverweld.com

“He’s still a huge force to be reckoned with,” Johnson said. “I’m super excited to have him back.”

Clay Walker is another established country-music veteran, with 11 albums and 30 hit singles, including many No. 1 hits such as “Live Until I Die,” “Rumor Has It” and “What’s It To You.” Johnson said many in the industry said the Stampede needed a classic country act such as Ronnie Milsap and Kenny Rogers, who came to the Stampede in 2015. Johnson believes Walker now fits that role.

“We are all getting older, and what your dad listened to is now vintage country,” Johnson said. “He is the new classic country.”

On the other end of that spectrum, LOCASH is a pop-country crossover duo known for its biggest hit, “I Know Somebody.” They’re an energetic and young group and should be a nice contrast to Keith’s and Walker’s more traditional country sound. Even if people don’t know LOCASH the way they know

Keith, the band seems to have a huge cult following, Johnson said.

“There are people who will go to that show if they’re within 100 miles,” Johnson said. “This is a great way to get some people out of Denver and see what Greeley is about.”

Chase Rice is 31 and considered a budding superstar, Johnson said, after opening for several big-name acts. He was on “Survivor: Nicaragua” and finished runner-up on the show. Rice follows another recent Stampede tradition of signing relatively new acts while they are cheaper, sort of the “buy low, sell high” strategy of the stock market.

He’s sold more than 11 million albums and has had six contemporary No. 1 singles.

Johnson said he’s excited to offer different churches and youth groups the opportunity to see such a big name perform in their own community.

To go 2017 Super Star Concert Pass Price of $60-$90 (depending on seating)

“We had lightning in a bottle for (Thomas) Rhett, but unfortunately, that’s now expensive,” Johnson said. “I see a lot in Chase Rice. I think he will be huge if he gets a few more hits in.”

That act also gets a boost from Ned LeDoux, Chris LeDoux’s son, who opens for Rice. LeDoux was a fixture at the Stampede, and people may buy tickets just to see Ned, Johnson said.

On the pop side, fans may be just as enthusiastic about Barenaked Ladies and Toby-Mac, a six-time Grammy-winning Christian pop artist is set to headline the new Faith & Family Night.

“They’re both a little different from what we’ve done in the past,” Johnson said. “We wanted it to be high energy and fun.”

The Barenaked Ladies is known for high energy, precision, finesse and outright celebration at their live concerts, according to a news release. The band has produced 14 studio albums over the past three decades, has collectively sold more than 14 million copies. The special guest performing with the group has yet to be announced.

The first ever Faith & Family night on June 25 will serve as a standalone concert, Johnson said and will offer a more family oriented opportunity to enjoy the music.

TobyMac is set to perform at 8 p.m. He’s known for fusing rock, pop, soul and hip-hop into what he galls a “musical gumbo,” according to a news release.

includes 1 ticket to all of the following concerts: » Chase Rice w/ Ned LeDoux, 8 p.m., June 23 » Barenaked Ladies w/ TBA, 8 p.m., June 24 » LOCASH w/ Drake White & The Big Fire, 8 p.m., June 30 » Toby Keith w/ High Valley 8 p.m., July 1 » Clay Walker w/ John Michael Montgomery 8 p.m., July 2 Individual concert prices range from $30$45 per person, per concert.

“It’s all about this package,” Johnson said. “Where else can you buy five concerts for $60?”

How can I buy Stampede tickets?

Visit or Call the Stampede Ticket Office 600 North 14th Avenue Greeley, Colorado 80631, (970) 356-7787 Hours: May: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

June: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Event: Monday-Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Buy Online through ticketswest.com or follow the links below.

Go to any Colorado King Soopers store at the customer service desk.

Call TicketsWest at (866) 464-2626. exploreweldcounty.com | 57

sho shop in weld county

58 | discoverweld.com

During your stay in Weld County, you’ll surely want to experience the local shopping outlets. Is an indoor mall your “thing?” The Greeley Mall offers a wide variety of smaller stores plus major brand anchors, in addition to a food court and a major cinema, to keep you occupied for more than a day and night. Or maybe an outdoor shopping mall is your preference. There are a variety of smaller neighborhood malls in Greeley and surrounding towns. The largest such outdoor mall in Weld is the Centerplace shopping center in west Greeley, with several major department and sporting good anchors, as well as restaurants and smaller boutiques and specialty stores.

and its available storefronts are now almost fully occupied.

And, smaller Weld towns such as Windsor, Fort Lupton, Johnstown, Eaton and Ault, to name just a few, offer a variety of specialties and unique merchandise.

Treasure seekers also will find dozens of antique stores in Weld for treasure seekers, and farmers markets dot the landscape throughout Weld’s communities during the summer and fall months.

op

With dozens and dozens of shopping experiences available in Weld County, let us help you find the perfect gift or souvenir to remember your northern Colorado visit.

Don’t forget downtown shopping areas in Weld County. The Greeley downtown has experienced a rebirth in recent years

exploreweldcounty.com | 59

shopping Whether you seek a weathered bedroom piece with historical value, or a one-of-akind knickknack to put on a shelf, or everyday deals at a big-box retailer, Weld County provides. Antique shops line the U.S. 85 corridor; downtown Greeley’s locally owned art and gift shops provide unique items; the Greeley Mall and Greeley Centerplace provide a mix of major retailers and mom-and-pop stores. When you add it all up, there are dozens of shopping experiences scattered throughout Weld County.

Downtown Windsor www.windsordda.com Notable shops: Four & Twenty Blackbirds, coast to Coast Styles, Memory Lane Antiques, Closet 503, My Favortie Things, Old Town Smoke Shop, Simply Home, Summit Spa,s, The Blushing Bride, Nana beas’s and much more!

Downtown Greeley www.greeleydowntown.com Noteable shops: Accessories with a Flair!...and Hair, Ancient Healing Wisdom Arts, The Dragon’s Cache, Doug’s Hang Up, King’s Clocks & Unique Gifts, Lincoln Park Emporium, Madison & Main Gallery, Showcase Art Center, Mariposa Plants, Flowers and Gifts, The Nerd Store and so much more!

Centerplace of Greeley Notable shops: Kohl’s, Famous Footwear, Gamestop, Ross Dress For Less, Target, Best Buy, Dressbarn and so much more!

60 | discoverweld.com

Westlake Village Shopping Center Greeley www.thewestlakevillage.com Notable Shops: Lolly’s Hallmark Shop, Colorado Rockies Dugout Store, Game Factor, Smokes & Stogies, Westlake Wine & Spirits and much more!

Greeley Mall www.shopgreeleymall.com Notable Shops: At Home, Bath & Body Works, Brooklyn Village, Buckle, Christopher & Banks, Claire’s Boutique, Fanzz, Fashion Fever, Fun Zone Arcade, JCPenney, Sears, Vanity, Zales Jewelers, Zumiez and so much more!

Downtown Johnstown Notable Shops: Break From Reality, Johnstown Clothing & Embroidery, The Finest Edge, Heart to Heart Children’s Boutique and much more!

GREAT SHOPPING CLOSE TO HOME

FIND SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE VISIT US TODAY!

2050 Greeley Mall, Greeley, CO 80631 970-356-4255 shopgreeleymall.com exploreweldcounty.com | 61

8th Annual

Thursday, July 20, 2017 Boardwalk Park 4:00-8:30pm

• Free admission • Activities • Find a variety of foods • Expanded beer garden • Local business booths In partnership with

62 | discoverweld.com

Farmers markets Evans Farmers’ Market Thursdays: June 2 – Sept. 15 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

3700 Golden Street Erie Farmers’ Market Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. – 8 p.m.

May - September Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt http://realfarmersmarketco.com Frederick Farmers’ Market Thursdays from 4-8 p.m.

June – August Crist Park, 105 5th St., Frederick http://www.frederickco.gov Greeley Farmers’ Market Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Year Round Outdoors at the Depot 902 7th Ave. http://greeleygov.com Mead Farmers’ Market Sundays from 10:00 – 1:00 p.m.

June 25 – September 24 Main Mead Park https://www.facebook.com/DMFM2017/

Miller Farms Farm Stand June 15 – Oct. 13912 County Road 19, Platteville Chapmans Produce 31985 County Road 17, Windsor Pope Farms Produce & Garden Center Monday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Sundays: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

(April – Dec.) 6510 West 28th Street, Greeley Tigges Farm Aug.: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 a.m.

– 6:00 p.m.; Sept.: Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Oct.: Open Daily 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

12404 WCR 64 ½, Greeley Mazzotti’s Garden Center Daily: May – June, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

2628 WCR 49, Hudson Windsor Farmers’ Market Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

June 29-September 28 Boardwalk Park 115 5th St. https://www.windsorgov.com exploreweldcounty.com | 63

Antique shops Faded Rose Antiques 202 1st Street, Ault 970-834-1070 Jen’s Antique Mall 220 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2877 JR’s Antiques & Etc. 213 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2291 www.aultimateantiques.com Junk-N-Joe Flea Market & Coffee Bar 224 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2065 Vintage Soul 216 1st Street, Ault 720-933-1845 Alley Arts & Collectibles, LLC 122 Oak Avenue, Eaton 970-454-3347 www.alleyartsco.com Lone Tree Antiques and Fine Art 115-117 1st St., Eaton 970-301-0248 www.lonetreeantiques.com Mericki’s 212 1st Street, Eaton 970-301-2196 64 | discoverweld.com

The French Corner 208 First Street & 108 Oak Ave., Eaton 970-454-2088 or 970-454-1088 www.thefrenchcornershop.com Tree of Life 208 Oak Avenue, Eaton 970-689-6779 Ervin’s Antiques & Gifts 3810 West 10th Street, Greeley 970-515-6775 Lincoln Park Emporium 822 8th Street, Greeley 970-351-6222 www.lincolnparkemporium.com A Step Back in Time 30 South Main, Keenesburg 303-732-9257 www.a-step-back.com

A1 Furniture of La Salle 125 North 2nd Street, La Salle 970-284-5260 www.a1furnitureoflasalle.com Memory Lane Antiques 426 Main Street, Windsor 970-686-7913 www.memlaneantiques.com

Transportation Taxi Services

Airports

Smart Ride Tranportation, LLC 970.347.9791 www.smart-rides.com

Greeley/Weld County Airport 970.336.3000 www.gxy.net Business aviation facility with full-service jet center. All major aircraft services provided.

Yellow Cab 970.224.2222 http://www.fortcollinstaxi.com Public Transportation Greeley Evans Transit (GET) www.greeleyevanstransit.com Mystery Rides (970) 888-4920 Mymysteryride.com

Denver International Airport 303.342.2200 www.flydenver.com Located just southeast of Weld County it is serviced by most major carriers.

Airport transportation SuperShuttle 800.bluevan www.supershuttle.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 65

sta stay in weld county

66 | discoverweld.com

After you’ve been busy playing, shopping, eating and drinking in Weld County, you need a nice place to relax and rest.

With more than a dozen hotels in Greeley and two dozen in Weld County, visitors will have a wide choice of places to hang their hats. Or perhaps a bed and breakfast is your preference. Two places in Greeley are popular — the Greeley Guest House and the Currier Inn. The Porter House B & B Inn in Windsor is another popular destination.

And if you prefer wild open spaces and more of a traditional country atmosphere, the West Pawnee Ranch B & B near Grover, a remote north Weld County community, not only offers a place to stay but also

hiking, horseback riding, country meals and access to the Pawnee National Grassland.

And finally, if you are bringing your own living space on wheels, the Greeley RV Park & Campground offers daily through monthly sites, a laundromat, exercise facility, free wireless internet, and 60-foot full hook-up pull through sites.

ay

exploreweldcounty.com | 67

Bed & Breakfast Waking up in a charming inn to the smell of fresh-baked muffins and strong-brewed coffee and a hardy “Good morning!” is something visitors can’t get at the local corporate hotels. Weld’s innkeepers pride themselves on their home-town pampering of visitors, to make their stays cozy and relaxing.

Greeley Guest House 5401 W. 9th Street, Greeley, CO 80634 970-353-9373 www.greeleyguesthouse.com Only a few miles from downtown Greeley, its spacious guest rooms and complimentary breakfast are enjoyed by business travelers and vacationers alike. The jacuzzi rooms and suites are favorites for honeymooners and company executives.

Currier Inn Bed & Breakfast 1221 9th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631-4017 970-392-1221 www.greeleybedandbreakfast.com The humble, individually decorated rooms feature en suite bathrooms with soaking tubs, flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast is served in a stylish dining area adjacent to a lobby with a grand spiral staircase.

Porter House B & B Inn 530 Main St Windsor, CO 80550-5132 970-686-5793 Charming victorian styled B & B conveniently located in romantic downtown Windsor. Enjoy a quite comfortable stay in the care if its gracious and attentive hosts.

West Pawnee Ranch B & B 29451 County Road 130 Grover, CO 80729 970-895-2482 Wide open spaces and wild life! Great for hiking, horseback or mountain bike riding. West Pawnee Ranch offers a variety of room options conveniently located on the border of the Pawnee National Grasslands. Not to mention the country sized meals made from scratch!

68 | discoverweld.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 69

Hotels A couple of years ago, hotel rooms were at a premium in Weld County, but today that picture is changing. The entire county has experienced a visitor boom, prompting new, nationally branded hotels to pop up from north to south to offer pristine accommodations.

Cobblestone Inn & Suites 485 S. Elm Rd, Eaton, CO 80615 970-454-2077 www.staycobblestone.com/co/eaton

Clarion Hotel & Conference Center 701 8th St. Greeley, CO 80631 970-353-8444 www.clarionhotelgreeley.com

Rodeway Inn 3015 8th Ave. Evans, CO 80620 970-351-6482

Hampton Inn & Suites Greeley 2350 W. 29th St. Greeley, CO 80631 http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com

Americas Best Value Inn 800 31st St., Evans, CO 80620 970-339-2492 www.americasbestvalueinn.com

Days Inn 2467 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80634 970-392-1530 www.daysinn.com/greeley

Sleep Inn 3025 8th Ave., Evans, CO 80620 www.sleepinn.com

Country Inn & Suites 2501 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80634 970-330-3404 www.countryinns.com Candlewood Suites Greeley 3530 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80634 970-330-2333 www.candlewoodsuites.com Comfort Inn 2467 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80634 970-330-6380 www.comfortinn.com

Best Western Fireston Inn & Suites 11228 Business Park Cir, Firestone, CO 80504 720-494-1925 www.bestwestern.com/Firestone?

Comfort Suites Longmont 11292 business Park Cir, Firestone, CO 80504 720-864-2970 www.comfortsuite.reservations.com 70 | discoverweld.com

Faiffield Inn & Suites Greeley 970-339-5030 2401 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80631 www.mariot.com

Super 8 Greeley 2423 W. 29th St., Greeeley, CO 80631 970-330-8880 www.super8.com

Homewood Suites by Hilton Greeley 2510 46th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634 970.330.1706 www.homewoodsuites3.hilton.com Holiday Inn Express Greeley 2563 W. 29th St., Greeley, CO 80631 970.330.7495 www.hoexpress.com

Cobblestone Inn & Suites 309 Hil St., Kersey, CO 80644 970-351-9411 www.staycobblestone.com/co/kersey Super 8 Windsor 1265 Main St. Windsor, CO 80550 970-686-5996 super8.com

exploreweldcounty.com | 71

The more you

UNCOVER the more you

DISCOVER! Cultural overload every night. Fun for you and the family. Cowboy cool that’s part of our nature.

And, that’s just the beginning. Visit Greeley for surprises that’ll make you smile.

Watch our video at

www.visitgreeley.org

Chamber of Commerce Visit Greeley

Chamber of Commerce Visit Greeley

Greeley Chamber of Commerce/Visit Greeley Visitors Center 902 7th Avenue | Greeley, CO 80631 970-352-3567 | www.visitgreeley.org

72 | discoverweld.com Published with lodging tax dollars collected by the City of Greeley

weddings

The Sarchet Event Center 14016 County Road 32, Platteville 970-639-6789 www.sarcheteventcenter.com

Brookside Gardens Event Center (and Spa & Salon) 619 E. State Highway 56, Berthoud 970-532-3663 www.brooksidegardens.com/event-center Platte River Fort 22999 US Highway 34, Greeley 970-590-4414 www.platteriverfort.com Highland Meadows Golf Course 6300 Highland Meadows Pkwy, Windsor 970-204-4653 www.highlandmeadowsgolfcourse.com/ weddings-events/ Anderson Farms 6728 County Road 3 Âź, Erie 303-828-5210 www.andersonfarms.com/facilityrental/weddings/ Saddleback Golf Course 8631 Frontier Street, Firestone 303-833-5000 www.saddlebackgolf.com/ Currier Inn (Bed and Breakfast) 1221 9th Avenue, Greeley

970-392-1221 www.greeleybedandbreakfast.com

Eaton Country Club 37661 County Road 39, Eaton 970-454-2587 www.eatoncc.net Pelican Lakes Golf & Country Club 1620 Pelican Lakes Point, Windsor 970-674-0930 www.watervalley.com/restaurants-andevents/weddings Greeley Guest House 5401 West 9th Street in Greeley 970-353-9373 www.greeleyguesthouse.com Wild Cider 11455 County Road 17 in Firestone 303-532-9949 www.wildcider.com/home/venue-wc A Gathering Place 24081 WCR 50 in La Salle 970-518-2925 www.place2gather.com Greeley Country Club 500 W 10th St, Greeley 970-353-0528 Greeleycc.org exploreweldcounty.com | 73

Thank You For Making This Publication A Reality DISCOVER

.com www.discoverweld.com We are city and country, new and old, loud and quiet.

We are Weld County, and we are just what you are looking for.

Lucky Fins Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant Red’s Dogs & Donuts Wing Shack Fort Vasquez Academy of Natural Therapy Greeley Mall Wild Animal Sanctuary Visit Greeley Greeley Unexpected Discover Weld County

EDITOR Randy Bangert

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nikki Work Kelli Heitstuman-Tomko Dan England Kelly Ragan

CREATIVE MANAGER Kyle Knoop

Advertising Director Bruce Dennis

Finance Director Doug Binder

PHOTOGRAPHY Joshua Polson, The Tribune Jim Rydbom City of Greeley

PUBLISHER Bryce Jacobson

Creative supervisor & Design Amy Mayer MANAGING EDITOR Sharon Dunn

74 | discoverweld.com

EXPLORE WELD COUNTY 501 8th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631 P.O. Box 1690

For all editorial, advertising, subscription and circulation inquiries, call (970) 352-0211.

Send editorial-related comments and story ideas to: rbangert@ greeleytribune.com 2017 Volume 2, Issue 1 Published by: Greeley Publishing Co., publisher of The Greeley Tribune, Windsor Now, the Fence Post, Tri-State Livestock News, Energy Pipeline, Prime & Business Connect

exploreweldcounty.com | 75

Explore our

Museums!

Colorado Model Railroad Museum

Come visit The Biggest Little Railroad 680 10th Street, Greeley • 970-392-2934

Greeley History Museum Come See Our Exhibits!

Utopia: Adaptation on the Plains 714 8th Street, Greeley • 970-350-9220 76 | discoverweld.com