Explore Weld County Fall/Winter 2017

EXPLOREWELDCOUNTY.COM

THE OFFICIAL

VISITOR GUIDE FALL 2017 | WINTER 2018

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START YOUR EXPLORATION TODAY!

Open For Educational Tours All Year

New 48,000 sq. ft. Visitor Welcome Center And 1.5 Miles of Elevated Wildlife discoverweld.com Viewing Walkway!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME LETTER............................................................. 6 Explore Weld County....................................................... 7 Stats & Facts.................................................................. 8 Top 10 Destinations in Weld.......................................... 10 TASTE OF WELD COUNTY................................................. 14 Red’s Dogs & Donuts.................................................... 16 Sugar House - American Dining.................................... 17 Wholly Stromboli........................................................... 18 Restaurants.................................................................. 20 Breweries...................................................................... 24 Distilleries.................................................................... 25 PLAY IN WELD COUNTY.................................................... 27 Largest Private Collection of WWII planes.................... 28 Shooting games in Weld County................................... 30 Hunting......................................................................... 32 Shooting Ranges........................................................... 33 Parks............................................................................ 34 Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches................................... 36 Sledding & Skating....................................................... 37 Top Kid’s Destinations.................................................. 38 Unique to Weld.............................................................. 40 Museums...................................................................... 42 Entertainment & Events............................................... 46 SHOP IN WELD COUNTY................................................... 57 Shopping Centers......................................................... 58 Antique Shops............................................................... 60 Shuttles & Transportation............................................ 61 Scheels Offers Disneyland of Sporting Goods............... 62 STAY IN WELD COUNTY.................................................... 65 Bed & Breakfasts......................................................... 66 Hotel Directory.............................................................. 67 discoverweld.com

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD Weld County is known for a lot of things. We’re known for our agricultural production and for our energy production. We have more cows than people and enough miles of county roads to take you from Denver to Atlanta‌and back.

But this book is an opportunity for us to showcase what you might not know about Weld County. It is an invitation to discover new adventures, new places, new stories and new friends.

Five years ago, the Weld County Board of Commissioners participated in a series of discussions aimed at defining different goals for Weld County and the northern Colorado region. One of those goals led to the creation of the Discover Weld platform, which is dedicated to sharing the many great events, people and places throughout Weld County. In fact, what started as just a web site has grown into multiple social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. Each platform is aimed at engaging viewers and sharing stories about our great county.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect about the Discover Weld platform, however, is the active participation of our 31 municipalities in helping share information about local events and promoting the great news generated from our communities. The results have been amazing. In 2014, Discover Weld won an Award of Excellence from the National Association of County Information Officers, and in 2015, analytics showed that the Discover Weld web site had been visited by people from all 50 states in the U.S. We are proud of our county, and we are excited to grow our audience and to continue to share our story.

So thank you. Thank you for picking up this publication, for browsing through the content and hopefully dog-earing some of pages that intrigue you. From museums preserving the rich history of the West to award-winning craft breweries and distilleries, Weld County is a mix of old and new, traditional and contemporary, expected and unexpected. We invite you to come visit, stay, shop and play and to discover Weld County in a whole new way.

The Board of Weld County Commissioners

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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.

The Board of Weld County Commissioners

DISCOVER

.com

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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.

• 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 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 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)

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

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

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

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

• 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 AULT www.townofault.org

LASALLE www.lasalletown.com

DACONO www.ci.dacono.co.us

LOCHBUIE www.lochbuie.org

EATON www.eatonco.org

MEAD www.townofmead.org

ERIE www.erieco.gov

MILLIKEN www.millikenco.gov

EVANS www.evanscolorado.gov

NEW RAYMER @ New Raymer, Colorado

FIRESTONE www.ci.firestone.co.us

NUNN www.nunncolorado.com

FORT LUPTON www.fortlupton.org

PIERCE www.townofpierce.org

FREDERICK www.frederickco.gov

PLATTEVILLE www.plattevillegov.org

GARDEN CITY www.townofgardencity.com

SEVERANCE www.townofseverance.org

GILCREST www.townofgilcrest.org

WINDSOR www.windsorgov.com

GREELEY www.greeleygov.com GROVER www.grovercolorado.com HUDSON www.hudsoncolorado.org JOHNSTOWN www.townofjohnstown.com KEENESBURG www.townofkeenesburg.com KERSEY www.townofkersey.com

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

BERTHOUD www.berthoud.org BRIGHTON www.brightonco.gov LONGMONT www.ci.longmont.co.us NORTHGLENN www.northglenn.org THORNTON www.cityofthornton.net

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TOP 10

DESTINATIONS IN WELD COUNTY

From wide open spaces, pumpkin patches and corn mazes to musuems and indoor recreation, Weld County has a lot to offer visitors. Weld County is home to festivals throughout the fall and winter. 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!

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 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

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COLORADO MUSEUM

MODEL

RAILROAD

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 editor 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 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

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 exploreweldcounty.com 11

and a baseball diamond, and from the campground visitors can hike into the prairie for world-class birding.

For more information, go to: www. fs.usda.gov/arp

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

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plans now to head to the lightningfast 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, rollerblading 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

UNION COLONY CIVIC CENTER, GREELEY

Greeley’s Union Colony Civic Center is lit with activity in the Christmas season from Nov. 25 through Dec. 3.

Almost as magical as Santa himself, every year the Union Colony Civic Center’s lobbies are transformed into a winter wonderland of holiday splendor created around beautifully decorated trees and displays each with their own theme and style.

Also part of the celebration is Candy Cane Lane, which features evergreens adorned with ornaments made by little hands.

The Festival of Trees is anticipated each year by many in northern Colorado and also features a silent auction, Silver Bells Socials, Sip & Shop Ladies Night Out and a Teddy Bear Bash.

flights from several spooky activities inside the maze. The fun also includes the Zombie Paintball Slayer, where hunters load into a bus equipped with paintball guns and travel through the corn fields to the an area loaded with targets and props. Go to www. fritzlermaze.com for a full schedule.

TIGGES FARM

Experience the heart of Weld County at the historic Tigges Farm, 12404 Weld County Road 64 1/2, about three miles north of Greeley. Tigges Farm has been owned by the family since 1936. The farm branched into agritourism in 2015 and began offering not only a pumpkin patch but also events throughout the fall.

Each activity they hold on weekends in October is completely free, an expense the Tigges family bears to bring young families a fun outing and agricultural experience.

Kids can pick their own pumpkins, sing along with a real cowboy, do crafts, and take a wagon rides.

Admission to this family-run farm is free, and parents can select from items in the gift shop, or the fields, where 98 percent of the farm’s produce is for sale, or stroll through the farm’s historic Farm Equipment Museum or Barn Quilt Gallery. Free weekend activities through October.

Go to www.tiggesfarm.com.

FRITZLER CORN MAZE

The Fritzler Corn Maze is Colorado’s original and premier corn maze offering bushels of farmtastic fun for young and old. Located just seven miles south of Greeley on US 85, the maze is just a short drive from anywhere across the Colorado Front Range. It opens in late September and runs through Halloween.

The corn maze is divided into two phases, challenging and thrilling those seeking to find the one and only exit from the twists and turns of golden corn maze stalks.

At night, Scream Acres brings the terror back into the corn fields, with ghouls and ghosts and frights and

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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’ American 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 High Hops Brewery in Windsor 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.

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Red’s Dogs & Donuts is a Momn-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.

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 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!

2608 11th Avenue • Greeley, 80631 (located off Hwy 34 and 11th Ave in the King Soopers Shopping Center) 970-353-2400 www.redsdogsanddonuts.com discoverweld.com

with strong focus on flavors from North Carolina and the Southwest.

Sitting in the shadow of the Great Western Sugar Factory in Eaton, CO, Sugar House offers top quality, professionally prepared cuisine with casual American flair. The restaurant’s simple interior recalls its historic beginnings with an ambiance reminiscent of a prairie farm home.

Corrugated metal wainscoting, bare oak tables and agricultural artifacts adorn the walls, but simplicity ends at the menu. Expect carefully crafted sauces, house-made dressings and great attention to culinary detail. The menu covers a range of cuisines, reflecting Executive Chef/Owner Tony Pera’s wide experience cooking across the country,

Dinner favorites are sushi grade Scottish salmon flown in fresh, hickory smoked ribeye prepared from prime rib and finished in a cast iron skillet, bone-in Duroc pork chop stuffed with spinach herb asiago and served with smoked Gouda mac & cheese and a flavorful, bacon-wrapped filet. Pera works off a seasonal menu, acquiring local ingredients to create inspirational pairings. Lunch features a wide selection of salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches and wraps. Many offer versions with house made smoked pork green chile in a rich broth, including a smothered burrito. The breakfast menu is extensive with pancakes, strawberry french toast, biscuits and gravy, eggs your way and omelettes. Brunch adds lunch items. Patio dining and limited beer and wine.

226 Oak Street, Eaton, 80615 970.454.2210 • www.sugarhouse226.com

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WHOLLY STROMBOLI BRINGS ITALIAN FAMILY VALUES TO RURAL COLORADO

BY DANNY BISHOP FOR EXPLORE WELD COUNTY FORT LUPTON — These days everyone is overworked, so inevitably stress accumulates, hair is pulled out, and meals are skipped. Yet, for Fort Lupton restaurant owners Melissa and Eric Rickman, dinner is non-negotiable.

Growing up on the East coast, family meals were an important chance to connect — not a quick bite before nightly TV or replying to emails, Melissa said. Instead, her mom’s signature stromboli dinners were a necessary part of the family dynamic. It was the one time during the day the family put life on hold to be together.

It might sound cheesy, but cheese defined this New Jersey family. As a result of fond family memories, Melissa and her husband set out to share this defining sensibility with Colorado when they opened Wholly Stromboli six years ago.

“Everyone thought we were nuts to discoverweld.com

open an Italian restaurant in a rural town,” Melissa said.

She is not wrong to feel like an outcast. Surrounded by small-town aesthetic, Wholly Stromboli seems a little bit like a mirage. The location is one of many elements that make the restaurant unique. The restaurant is located in the 103-year-old, historic Edgar St. John building in downtown Fort Lupton. They gutted the building and spent long days crafting it into a restaurant while still preserving its historic roots.

Friends and family were concerned if a sit-down stromboli business was sustainable in a town of only 8,000 residents, but the Rickmans would not budge on the location — they did not want to uproot their kids. Plus, there had always been a demand for a family dinner destination in Fort Lupton — no one had quite tapped into it yet,

according to Melissa.

Flash forward to this year, Wholly Stromboli won first place for Denver’s A List Best Italian. Melissa said they were in the running four years in a row, and this year they were selected out of 97 restaurants. Melissa said they were honored to be selected — especially since they are not even in Denver.

“I’m a city girl, so when we came here there was nowhere for a Friday night date,” Melissa said.

Despite the clashing identities of Fort Lupton and the restaurant, Wholly Stromboli never would have existed without the support of a rural community. Melissa said they got their start in a uniquely small-town way.

“We had people knocking on our door to lend a hand,” Melissa said. “We had a city council member washing dishes. ...

People really wanted this restaurant to succeed. That wouldn’t have happened in a large community. As a result, we feel committed and want to give back.”

Waitress and manager Kelce Romero said the Rickmans value community over everything. This quality inspired her to work at Wholly Stromboli.

“Melissa and Eric are very into giving back to the community,” Romero said.

“We do what we do because we want to.

They want to keep this thing growing, and establish a local community — like a family — and show what true hospitality is.”

Before she worked at Wholly Stromboli, Romero would come in as a customer for the food and familiar faces.

“There are not many restaurants in Fort Lupton, and I used to come here all the time before I started working here.” Romero said. “I wanted to be a part of this team because they were so welcoming.”

One way the Rickmans give back is through various community events such as a school supply drive, or helping to organize a trick-or-treat street for local children. According to Fort Lupton Fire Department Lieutenant Kenny Rosales, the Rickmans often drop off food for the firefighters. As a result, the fire department, which is located only a few buildings away, visit for lunch regularly.

“They get a lot of support because they support the community,” Rosales said. “Their food is unique to anything around here, and they bring a lot of

people to Fort Lupton.”

According to Rosales, the eclectic menu is what made the fire department regular customers. In addition to traditional strombolis, Wholly Stromboli offers the “Hyperbole” which includes locally grown green chilies, jalapeños, ham, cream cheese and their secret diablo sauce. Other unique items include a PB&J stromboli, Philly cheesesteak stromboli or the “Hulapeño,” a Hawaiian inspired dish which is qualified with “trust us” in the menu description.

It all started with one recipe.

Melissa’s mom used to make what can now be found on the menu as “The Original.” Melissa said she remembers trying to convince her mom to sell the strombolis, which had been so crucial to family bonding, but her mom figured there wasn’t a market for them. At a young age, Melissa decided she would open a restaurant, and that motivation stuck with her through various middle management jobs, until she and Eric moved to Colorado and started planning their dream in 2007.

“Since I was 20 I had the name for the restaurant picked out,” Melissa said. “I would dream about it at night. I would imagine what this place looked like. A couple decades later and here we are.”

Today, Wholly Stromboli is driven by the same family values that led to its inception. Melissa said all the food is made from scratch, and the ingredients come from local vendors. In pursuit of the best quality food, dough at Wholly Stromboli is aged for 48 hours. The restaurant also features only local microbreweries on tap.

“It’s important to us that we support small business,” Melissa said. “There are so many people that have a dream like mine, and the only way that works is if we support each other.”

Melissa said the key to small business success is being present — both in the restaurant and with the customers. She said they treat their guests like family, and the hospitality they offer keeps people coming back.

“We stand out because we care,” Melissa said. “We’re not just slinging food. You can taste the love. When people leave here with a full tummy and a happy heart my life is complete.”

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RESTAURANTS AULT

EVANS

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

The New Plantation 3520 11th Ave., Evans, CO 970-330-7903 www.thenewplantation.com Cajun/Creole

DACONO

Palomino Mexican Restaurant 3390 23rd Ave., Evans, CO 970-506-1610 www.bestcoloradomexicanfood.com Mexican

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

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Mason Jar Meal Co and Café 3610 35th Ave., Unit 8, Evans (970) 515-5059 mjmeals.com

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

FORT LUPTON

GILCREST

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

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

FREDERICK

HUDSON

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

The Pepper Pod 530 Fir St, Hudson, CO 303-536-4736 www.thepepperpod.com Cafe

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

JOHNSTOWN Santiago’s 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 exploreweldcounty.com 21

KEENESBURG

PIERCE

Korner Kitchen Café 245 Market St., Keenesburg, CO

Full Moon Saloon 206 E Main St., Pierce, CO 970-834-2280 American

303-732-1034 • kornerkitchencafe.com

American/Café

KERSEY 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 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

NUNN Honey’s Highway Café 979 5th St., Nunn, CO 970-897-2222 American/Café

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Double Tree 701 Vasquez Blvd., Platteville, CO 970-785-2238 www.thedoubletreerestaurant.com American

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’s 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

Meeker’s — A Colorado Kitchen and Bar 919 7th St., Greeley (970) 353-1883 http://meekersrestaurant.com/

Cables Pub & Grill 1923 59th Ave., Greeley, CO 970-330-4847 www.cablespubandgrill.com Grill/Sports Bar/American/Italian

Daruma Japanese Restaurant 1702 8th Ave., Greeley (970) 346-9000 darumajapaneserestaurant. eat24hour.com

Fat Albert’s 1717 23rd Ave., Greeley, CO 970-356-1999 www.fat-alberts.com American

Sapporo Japanese Steakhouse 2077 Greeley Mall | (970) 978-4049 www.sapporogreeley.com

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

SEVERANCE 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

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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 awardwining beers on tap.

BRIX TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY

HIGH HOPS BREWERY

BROKEN PLOW BREWERY

MASH LAB BREWING

CRABTREE BREWING COMPANY

THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION BREWING COMPANY

813 8th Street, Greeley 970-397-6146 www.brixtaphouseandbrewery.com 4731 West 10th Street, Greeley 970-301-4575 www.brokenplowbrewery.com 2961 29th Street, Greeley 970-356-0516 www.crabtreebrewing.com

ECHO BREWING COMPANY

5969 Iris Parkway, Frederick 970-445-5969 www.echobrewing.com/

GREEN EARTH BREWING CO.

725 10th St., Greeley 970-470-0794 https://greenearthbrewingco.com/

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6461 HWY 392, Windsor 970-674-2841 www.highhopsbrewery.com 4395 Highland Meadows Pkwy, Windsor, 970-685-0334 www.mashlabbrewing.com

285 Cheesman Street, Erie 303-828-1200 www.industrialrevolutionbrewingcompany.com/

WELDWERKS BREWING COMPANY 508 8th Avenue, 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

SYNTAX SPIRITS

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

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

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

This distillery makes all of their small-batch vodka, whiskey, and rum from scratch, using local ingredients and pure Colorado whitewater.

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/

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discoverweld.com

There’s no shortage of places to play in Weld County. In the fall and winter, there are dozens of festivals, craft shows, and indoor events to keep people busy. From music and concerts, to historic forts and museums, to art galleries, to Mother Nature and her finest creations turning into winter wonderlands, 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, star-gazing and birdwatching. 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.

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.

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THE LARGEST PRIVATE COLLECTION OF WWII PLANES, MEMORABILIA OF ITS KIND

BY KELLI HEITSTUMAN-TOMKO • FOR EXPLORE WELD COUNTY FORT LUPTON — When Lance and Kathy Morrison delved into their family history, they discovered that Lance’s “Cousin Ted” was Edwin C. Parsons, a World War I flying ace and one of the elite “Valiant 38” members of the LaFayette Escadrille who became Rear Admiral of the U.S. Navy during World War II. The search for more information led the Texas couple to Andy Parks in Fort Lupton, Colorado.

Parks is owner and president of the Vintage Aero Flying Museum, housed in a private hangar at the Platte Valley Airpark. The museum, a 501(c)(3) with an emphasis on history and education, is not only a working display, but it is the largest private collection of its kind in the nation.

The museum is the personal project of three generations, starting with Parks’ grandfather Charles Parks, who was a member of the LaFayette Escadrille, a French military aerial force that consisted mostly of Americans, many fightdiscoverweld.com

ing in WWI before the United States entered the war. His association with other WWI pilots resulted in a growing collection of memorabilia from both sides of the war. He kept the collection in his basement, but his grandson said it was far from hidden.

“The collection has always been open to the public,” Parks said. “All anyone had to do was ask to see it.”

The collection consists of uniforms, medals, papers, letters, drawings and other personal items that belonged to specific pilots. Uniforms are displayed on mannequins, and stories of the pilots represented accompany each display. Some of the items are official, such as military papers, awards, letters and commissions. Other items are lighter — silly comics, drawings of saucy women, a sketch of a dogfight.

There were displays that contained scraps of planes with bullet holes in them and the stories of how those bullet holes got there.

Parks said the family continued to collect memorabilia over the years, a task made easier by his father’s position as an exchange professor in Germany.

“He spoke German and French fluently,” Parks said of his father. “It made it easier to talk to the families of other pilots we knew in Europe.”

The memorabilia are only part of the collection. While the uniforms, drawings, medals and papers are stored in cases along an upstairs walkway, the main floor of the hangar is filled with an assortment of WWI airplane replicas in various stages of reproduction. A complete, operational Fokker D.VII replica of the plane flown by German pilot Ernst Udet sits close to a replica of a Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5. The Fokker is flanked by the bare ribs and cables of a Sopwith Camel frame. Parks works on the skeleton of another Fokker as he points out the two operational planes.

“These planes were used in the move “The Aviator,” he said, adding that the S.E.5 was actually airborne during filming. Other planes were added using computer generated images.

Parks said the collection once had longer viewing hours, but after the economic downturn starting in 2009, hours had to be scaled back and the housing was reduced. Part of the collection can be seen at the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum in Pueblo, Colorado. The portion that Parks kept for the Vintage Aero Flying Museum is housed in the private hangar in Fort Lupton.

“We’re still doing lunches and events,” Parks said. “We’re still doing

field trips.”

Information about the museum can be found on the museum website, www. vafm.org. The collection is available for viewing on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but visitors should call first for a tour.

Regardless of whether it’s researchers referred by the Smithsonian, families such as the Morrisons, who are looking for answers or children from a local school, the museum has something for everyone.

“History has become unimportant and, during times of economic downturn, aviation at small airports like this suffers,” Parks said. “We want (people) to come out here and experience these planes and understand their history.”

EXPLORE AERO-HISTORY

The Vintage Aero Flying Museum is in a private hangar in the Platte Valley Airpark, 7507 Weld County Road 39, in Fort Lupton. Go to www.vafm. org. The collection is available for viewing on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but visitors should call first for a tour.

Call (303) 536-0380.

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SHOOTING GAMES IN WELD COUNTY

BY JAMES REDMOND • FOR EXPLORE WELD COUNTY BRIGGSDALE — In late July, gunshots range through the air as cowboys and cowgirls worked their way through Western-themed courses.

Using lever-action rifles, double-barrel shotguns and old-fashioned revolvers, the group showed off their shooting skills in numerous timed competitions at a special set of Pawnee Sportsmen Center shooting ranges, at 40914 Weld County Road 71, in Briggsdale.

It’s all a part of Briggsdale County Shootists — a fully sanctioned and affiliated member of the Single Action Shooting Society —and throughout the year members and interested shooters from throughout northern Colorado gather to share their passion for the old firearms.

Mark Woodard, a 59-year-old Longmont resident, said he regularly drives to Weld County to meet the group for a cowboy action shoot. Woodward, known as Blanco Perro to the other SASS members — they all choose a shooting alias for use in the organization — loves the chance to socialize, shoot and compete. discoverweld.com

He used to race motorcycles, but as he got older it became harder and more dangerous to compete. So he looked for something else to dedicate his time to, and that’s when he found shooting.

“I just got hooked,” Woodward said.

At the cowboy actions shoots, he gets to do something difficult, a little dangerous and a whole lot of fun. And he still gets to be outside with other similarly minded people.

“It’s awesome out here,” he said.

He loves visiting Weld County to shoot.

The grasslands and western vistas look and feel the way he imagines the old West might have looked.

Woodward isn’t the only one who visits Weld County for the sake of shooting sports.

Across Colorado, open-air — and open to public — shooting ranges aren’t too common, according to Pawnee Sportmens Center owner Richard Beck.

Colorado has a serviceable amount of trap and skeet ranges, because shotguns require less space than most

other firearms to safely use. But public outdoor ranges with pistol and rifle facilities are far less common, he said.

“People need access to some place to shoot and there are relatively few of them,” Beck said.

That’s what makes Weld County a good destination for shooting and firearm tourism. Weld County has two outdoor ranges that accommodate pistol and rifle shooters, Beck said. And the area has decent weather, at least good enough to keep outdoor ranges open all year, he said.

Great Guns Sporting, 16126 Weld County Road 96, in Nunn, offers trap and skeet ranges in addition to their 25-yard pistol range and their 100-, 200- and 300-yard rifle ranges.

Pawnee Sportmens Center also offers trap and skeet shotgun ranges, a 25yard pistol range and 100-, 250- and 1,000-yard rifle ranges.

The range options bring in a lot of visitors to the Pawnee Sportmens Center, Beck said. He meets visitors from Colorado Springs, Golden, Sterling and Wyoming.

Pawnee’s 1,000-yard range offers shooters a unique experience, Beck said.

Since the Gulf War, interest in longrange rifle shooting has grown considerably, he said. It’s still a niche part of the shooting hobby, but more people want to learn and practice firing highly specialized rifles at staggeringly long distances.

Many people who served in the military, since then, either served as snip-

ers, Beck said. Although they’re no longer serving, they still enjoy practicing that skillset.

“The long range is a fairly big draw for us,” he said.

However, the shorter rifle and pistol ranges bring in most of the business, Beck said.

The variety of ranges offer experienced shooters a multitude of options.

Many shooters come in the months leading up to hunting season to practice and prepare. And classes and instructors at ranges give firearm newcomers a way to learn more and get into the sport as well, he said.

OTHER SHOOTING OPPORTUNITIES

Weld County also offers shooters a couple other great reasons to visit and practice their sport.

In the scenic Pawnee National Grasslands, the Baker Draw Designated Shooting Area has dirt berms providing with 25-, 50- and 100-yard shooting ranges.

The area is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk, or as otherwise posted with occasional closures for cleaning and maintenance.

The free site is located near Weld County roads 96 and 63.

And when weather might drive away even the most dedicated marksmen, visiting shooters still have options.

Liberty Firearms Institute, 4990 Ronald Reagan Blvd., in Johnstown, has indoor 25-, 50- and 100-yard shooting ranges available for rent.

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HUNTING While the wild game rule the mountain hunting areas, Weld County has quietly become a haven for an increasing cadre of water-fowl hunting enthusiasts. So get our your bird-calls and find a hunting blind and come on out with the more than 6,000 hunters a year who call Weld County one of their favorite sporthunting grounds.

WATER FOUL HAVEN OUTFITTERS

GREAT GUNS SPORTING

PONDEROSA OUTFITTERS WATERFOWL ADVENTURES

SADDLE POCKET OUTFITTERS

720-917-9662 1011 37th Ave Ct, Greeley, 80631 www.waterfowlhavenoutfitters.com

970-590-2489 1115 5th St, Eaton, 80615 www.ponderosaoutfitters.com

AUER BIRD VALLEY

303-808-0282 4692 Weld County Road 61 Keenesburg, 80643 www.auerbirdvalley.com

STILLROVEN FARM

970-535-4538 17629 Weld County Road 5 Berthoud, 80513 www.stillrovenfarm.com discoverweld.com

970-897-2277 16126 Co Rd 96, Nunn, 80648 www.greatgunssporting.com

970-302-1528 19255 Weld County Rd. 88, Pierce www.saddlepocketoutfitters.com

BIRDS OF FALL OUTFITTERS, LLC

970-391-0386 Windsor, www.birdsoffalloutfitters.com

PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND 970-834-9270 See Colorado Parks and Wildlife for details. cpw.state.co.us

SHOOTING RANGES There are several local open-to-the-public ranges that can accommodate rifles and pistols.

COLORADO SHOOTING SPORTS 2435 8th Ave., Greeley (970) 395-0664

PAWNEE SPORTSMEN CENTER

40914 Weld County Road 71, Briggsdale. Options include trap and skeet shotgun ranges, a 25-yard pistol range and 100-, 250- and 1,000-yard rifle ranges.

Call (970) 656-3851 Website: www. pawneesportsmenscenter.com

GREAT GUNS SPORTING

16126 Weld County Road 96, Nunn.

Options include trap and skeet ranges in addition to their 25-yard pistol range and their 100, 200 and 300-yard rifle ranges.

Phone number: (970) 897-2277 Website: greatgunssporting.com

BAKER DRAW DESIGNATED SHOOTING AREA, IN PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLANDS at Weld County roads 96 and 63.

Options include 25-, 50- and 100yard shooting ranges for pistols and rifles only.

Phone number: (970) 346-5000 Website: bit.ly/2vZ87Eo

LIBERTY FIREARMS INSTITUTE

4990 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Johnstown.

Options include indoor 25-, 50- and 100-yard shooting ranges.

Phone number: (970) 578-0717 Website: www.libertyrange.com

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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 erieco.gov/847/Erie-Community-Park

PEARSON PARK, FORT LUPTON

This park has a bike trail, walking path, fields and playground •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

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AVEN’S VILLAGE, GREELEY

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-byside • 501 N. 14th Ave www.avensvillage.com

EHRLICH 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/

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

Published with lodging tax dollars collected by the City of Greeley exploreweldcounty.com 35

CORN MAZES & PUMPKIN PATCHES Nothing says fall in Weld County like the myriad places to get lost in a maze and pick out the perfect carving pumpkin. A variety of working farms from north to south offer visitors a jam-packed weekend worth of fun for the whole family.

There are corn mazes, go-carts, famers markets and more!

ANDERSON FARMS

6728 County Road 3 1/4 • Erie (303) 828-5210 www.andersonfarms.com September 21 – October 31 Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, fall festival, Terror in the Corn haunted hayride and ghost town, Zombie Paintball.

FRITZLER’S CORN MAIZE AND GIANT PUMPKIN PATCH 20861 County Road 33 • La Salle (970) 737-2129 • www.Screamacres.net www.fritzlermaze.com Mid-September - Halloween 15-acre corn maze, mini roller coaster barrel train ride, pumpkin cannons, pedal go-carts, pillow jumps, giant slide, paintball buses and so much more!

MAZZOTTI FARMS & PUMPKIN PATCH 24120 WCR 8 • Hudson (303) 536-4089 www.mazzottifarms.com October 1 - 31 • Saturday & Sunday, discoverweld.com

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Mon - Fri, school tours by appointment. 10-acre corn maze and pumpkin patch.

MILLER FARMS CORN MAZE & FALL FESTIVAL

13912 CR 19 • Platteville (970) 785-6133 www.millerfarms.net Labor Day - Mid-November Daily, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Reservations Fall Festival, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, corn maze, hay maze, hayrides, jumping pillow, monster truck, fire truck, pedal cars, planes, UFOs and antique tractors.

October 10 - 31: Haunted corn maze.

TIGGES FARM

12404 WCR 64 ½, Greeley www.TiggesFarm.com Call if you get lost 970-686-7225 Sept. 25 - Oct. 31, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Pumpkin patch, homemade crafts and gifts, roasted chilies and activities for all!

SLEDDING & SKATING Don’t let a little winter weather keep you cooped up. Some popular Weld County hills morph into winter magnets every season for sledders who feel the call of the wild and the need to race down a hill face-first. For those who want to experience winter without the chill, indoor skating offers a taste of winter to keep the body moving.

NOTTINGHAM FIELD

17th Avenue and Alles Drive. Greeley The hill beside Nottingham Field on the University of Northern Colorado campus has been a popular sledding destination for decades.

FOX RUN

59th Avenue and 17th Street. Greeley The hilly area in the Fox Run community is a popular yet less-crowded sledding area in Greeley. If you hate crowds, this is the place for you!

GREELEY ICE HAUS

900 8th Avenue Greeley, 80631 www.greeleygov.com

NORTHERN COLORADO ICE CENTER

7900 S. Fairgrounds Ave., Windsor (970) 206-4423 Drop-in hockey and other open skating times.

WATER VALLEY SENIOR LIVING RESORT 805 Compassion Drive, Windsor.

Fast and long, the large hill behind the Water Valley Senior Living Resort is another popular Weld County sledding destination.

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TOP KIDS’ DESTINATIONS FRITZLER CORN MAZE

The Fritzler Corn Maze is Colorado’s original and premier corn maze offering fun for young and old. Located just seven miles south of Greeley on U.S. 85, the maze is just a short drive from anywhere across the Colorado Front Range. It opens in late September and runs through Halloween. The corn maze is divided into two phases, challenging and thrilling those seeking to find the one and only exit from the twists and turns of golden corn maze stalks.

At night, Scream Acres brings the terror back into the corn fields, with ghouls and ghosts and frights and flights from several spooky activities inside the maze.

The fun also includes the Zombie Paintball Slayer, where hunters load into a bus equipped with paintball guns and travel through the corn fields to the an area loaded with targets and props.

The fun park also offers a mini rollercoaster, go-cart tracks, an obstacle course on three-wheel carts, a pillow jump, a firing range to shoot ears of corn and mini pumpkin targets, a pumpkin cannon, a pumpkin patch and the ever popular corn box, where kids can bury themselves in corn. Go to www.fritzlermaze.com for a full schedule.

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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.

The fall festival runs Labor Day through mid-November. For more information, go to www.millerfarms.net

TIGGES FARM

Experience the heart of Weld County at the historic Tigges Farm, 12404 Weld County Road 64 1Ž2, about three miles north of Greeley.

In 2015, Tigges Farm began offering not only the pumpkin patch, but events throughout the fall. Each weekend activity in October is free.

Kids can pick their own pumpkins, sing along with a real cowboy, do crafts, and take a wagon rides.

Admission to this family-run farm is free, and parents can select from items in the gift shop, or the fields., where 98 percent of the farm’s produce is for sale, or stroll through the farm’s historic Farm Equipment Museum or Barn Quilt Gallery.

Free weekend activities through October.

Go to www.tiggesfarm.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.

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

SLEDDING HILLS

When the snow flies, not many in these parts miss a chance to test their smoothest snowpants against winter’s worst. Get out the sled, and come along!

The large hill beside Nottingham Field on the University of Northern Colorado campus is probably the most popular destination for sledding in Greeley. In fact, it has been for decades.

Nottingham Field: 17th Avenue and Alles Drive. Greeley’s original sledding hill.

It is still the most crowded, but there’s a good reason for that: It has the most varied terrain, with some runs smooth and others bumpy, and offers the longest ride.

This hill tends to be more gradual, however, so you may have to juice your ride to go really fast. We may have seen a can of WD40 or two at the top of the hill, but

we’re not advocating that.

Fox Run: 59th Avenue and 17th Street.

Shorter but faster than Nottingham, with more bumps, as well. This hill also seems less crowded than Nottingham, but that’s based on random observation in the last few weeks, with a small sample size.

There is more terrain than Nottingham, which probably helps.

Water Valley Senior Living Resort: 805 Compassion Drive, Windsor. Fast and long and not quite as crowded, but the drive may be too prohibitive for those who don’t live in Windsor.

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

UNION COLONY CIVIC CENTER

Kids can walk into “Whoville” Nov. 26 at the Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley, where they can get their hair done in wacky styles just like Cindy Lou and get their picture taken with the Grinch. They also can find out their Who name - take part in a Seuss-tastic scavenger hunt - get their face painted - make a “grinchy” craft — and take a horse and wagon ride.

The event typically sells out, so it’s important to get tickets in advance by calling the UCCC box office at (970) 3565000.

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UNIQUE TO WELD 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,

discoverweld.com

picnicking, rocks and minerals, 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 ex-

otic and endangered large carnivores who have been abused, abandoned, exploited or illegally kept. Their goal for the animals 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/fortvasquez-museum

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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

Many artifacts from the founding days of Eaton and a collection of exhibits featuring the Spanish American War, World War I, World War 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. All furnishing for the Donelson House were donations which were subsequently restored by members of the South Platte Valley Historical Society. The Donelson House also periodically discoverweld.com

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.

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. Displays that illustrate what mining was like at the turn of the century.

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143 5th St., Frederick 720-382-5500 www.frederickco.gov/717/Miners-Memorial-Museum

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 greeleymuseums.com/locations/centennial-village/

COLORADO MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM

This museum features over 600 railroadrelated artifacts ranging from a Virginia and Truckee Railroad switch key to a full-sized Colorado and Southern wooden Caboose available for examining.

680 10th Street, Greeley 970-392-2934 • gfsm.org/pcindex.html

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

Showcases life on the grasslands in northern Weld County. A museum organized to study, record, preserve and make available the history of Northern Weld County. The museum is closed in winter.

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

GREELEY HISTORY MUSEUM

the paths of founders Louis Vasquez and Andrew Sublette.

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

greeleymuseums.com/locations/greeley-history-museum/

PLATTEVILLE PIONEER MUSEUM

Exhibits telling the story of Greeley and Weld County.

714 8th St., Greeley • 970-350-9220

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/

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

PLUMB FARM

TOWN OF WINDSOR MUSEUM

MEEKER HOME

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/ white-plumb-farm-learning-center/

GROVER DEPOT MUSEUM

Tales of boom and bust and the railroads.

Grover, CO. groverlibrary.8m.com/grover.html

PARISH HOUSE MUSEUM

Home of the founders of Johnstown, Harvey J. and Mary Parish. The main level of this furnished house 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/ discoverweld.com

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/index. aspx?NID=464

VINTAGE AERO FLYING MUSEUM

Platte Valley Air Park 7507 Weld County Road 39, Fort Lupton www.vafm.org Viewing on Tuesdays and Thursdays Call ahead for tour 303-536-0380

WINDSOR ART & HERITAGE CENTER

A hub for arts, culture, and history in 116 5th St., Windsor • 970-674-2443 www.windsorgov.com/

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ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS OCTOBER THROUGH NOV. 19

WINDSOR COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT, noon- 4 p.m., Thursday-Sunday, Windsor Art and Heritage Center, 116 5th St., Windsor. Free. Details: (970) 674-3524.

EVERY SATURDAY ALL MONTH

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St., Greeley. The Winter Market is open: Every Saturday in October. First and Third Saturdays – November through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

OCT. 6-7

COLORADO MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM, Rio Grande Days, 680 10th St., Greeley.

Details: (970) 392-2934 or cmrm.org.

OCT. 7

GREELEY STAMPEDE BUDDY BASH DEMOLITION DERBY, 2 p.m., Island Grove Regional Park arena, 501 N 14th Ave, Greeley. Details: (970) 356-7787 or www. greeleystampede.org/events/2017/buddy-bash. discoverweld.com

OCT. 7

GREELEY MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lincoln Park, 802 10th Ave., Greeley. Experience cultures with all your senses at the Greeley Multicultural Festival! The Festival showcases cultures from all over the world. It also facilitates community awareness of different cultures in the community.

There will be music, performances, food, demonstrations and crafts. Free.

OCT. 13-14

SUPER HERO WEEKEND, Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St., Greeley.

Details: (970) 392-2934 or cmrm.org.

OCT. 14

ERIE WINE AND CHEESE FESTIVAL, noon to 4 p.m., Coal Creek Park, 575 Kattell St., Erie. Sample wines from 7 local Colorado wineries. aste a plethera of fine cheeses from Murray’s Cheeses, while you learn more about “pairing” of wines and cheeses from a certified cheese professional. Art show and live music. $35-$60.

and a not-so-haunted house.

OCT. 13-15

GREELEY TRIBUNE CRAFT AND GIFT SHOW, noon-6 pm., Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Island Grove Regional Park Events Center, 501 N 14th Ave, Greeley.

OCT. 17-18

DIRTY DANCING, 7 p.m. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. $ Dirty Dancing is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heartpounding music, passionate romance and sensational dancing. This Broadway touring production features the hit songs, “Hungry Eyes” and the heartstopping “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life. $54/$40/$26. Tickets: (970) 356-5000.

OCT. 21-22

HOWL-O-WEEN TRICK-OR-TREAT, 3-7 p.m., Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A. St., Greeley. $2 Children, $3 adults.

This non-spooky, family-friendly event is an opportunity for families to wear their spookiest or silliest costumes and trick or treat at various structures on the 8 acre facility. In addition to trick-or-treating, there will be games, a costume contest

OCT. 22

WINDSOR PUMPKIN CARVING WORKSHOP, with original handmade tools kit, 3-5 p.m., Boardwalk Park under the pavilion, 100 N. 5th St., Windsor $20. Learn the original pumpkin-carving skills of John Bardeen, creator of Grandpa Bardeen’s Pumpkin Carving kids. Details: (970) 674-3500.

OCT. 26

HISTORY BROWN BAG: FRANCES WISEBARD JACOBS AND THE UNITED WAY, noon- 1 p.m., Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., Greeley. Frances Wisebart Jacobs was known as Denver’s Mother of Charities, a title she earned as one of the founders of the Charities Organization Society (now the United Way) and the woman responsible for National Jewish Hospital. Susan Malmstadt, of the Legendary Ladies, will perform Frances and talk about this remarkable community organizer whose charity work lives on today. Details: (970) 350-9222.

DoubleTree by Hilton • Downtown Greeley

FOOD

BEER

CONTESTS • EXHIBITORS

GIVEAWAYS TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! GREELEYTRIBUNE.COM/MANSHOW

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OCT. 27

TRICK OR TREAT STREET 2017, 4-6 p.m., 9th Street Plaza, Greeley. Bring all your little goblins, ghouls, pirates and princesses to downtown Greeley. There will also be games and activities like Pumpkin Cornhole, Candy Corn Bowling, and Pumpkin Decorating for the first 150 tots. Treats will also be strategically placed around the plazas for the little ones to find if they have a keen eye! Free.

OCT. 28

WINDSOR GHOST STORIES, museum village ghost tour, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Boardwalk Park Museum, 100 N. 5th St., Windsor. There will be a story teller at each of the city’s historic buildings, trickor-treating, and a scavenger hunt. $3 per person. Details: (970) 674-3500.

OCT. 28

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS: ART EXHIBIT RECEPTION, 4-5:30 p.m., Tointon Gallery, 651 10th Ave., Greeley. Free.

NOVEMBER ALL MONTH

THE EGYPTION ENIGMA, Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., Greeley. Join us in the hot desert sands for a month-long historical mystery. Who stole the fabled Eye of Jeph, and can you find it before the Mummy’s Curse takes its revenge?

Submit your answer between the 1st and the 30th. Clue hunt from 2-4 p.m., Nov. 25. Call David Sharp: (888) 861-7323.

1S T & 3RD SATURDAYS ALL MONTH

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St., Greeley. The Winter Market is open First and Third Saturdays – November through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

NOV. 1

OCT. 28

PETE WERNICK & FLEXIGRASS, 7:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. A supercharged blend of bluegrass and classic jazz. $7. Tickets: (970) 356-5000.

OCT. 28

MILLIKEN HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN NIGHT, 5:30-8 p.m., Milliken Middle School.

Free dinner, costume contest, games, prizes and more. Details: (970) 587-2772.

WORLD WAR I EXHIBIT, Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St, Greeley.

Details: (970) 350-9220.

NOV. 7, 14, 21, 28

ITCH TO STITCH, 1-2:15 p.m., Eaton Library, 132 Maple Ave, Eaton. Join the Eaton Library’s stitching, sewing and crocheting group as we meet fireside. All abilities and ages welcome. Contact Sheri McCaskill, (970) 454-2189.

NOV. 8,

OCT. 28 - 29

THE MAN SHOW, DoubleTree by Hilton, Downtown Greeley. 919 7th Street, Greeley. greeleytribune.com/manshow OCT. 30

WINDSOR HALLOWEEN HISTORY AND FILM SCREENING, 7-9 p.m., Windsor Art and Heritage Center, 116 5th St. $10. Enjoy learning about Windsor’s ghostly history, followed by a screening of the 1931 Bela Lugosi movie, “Dracula.” Details: (970) 674-3500.

discoverweld.com

CHAMPIONS OF MAGIC, 7 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. Witness the impossible, including disappearances, levitation, teleportation and a heart-stopping finale. Cost, $42/$30/$21.

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

NOV. 10

NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK & ROLL, 7:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. With a cast consisting of both stars from Broadway’s greatest rock musicals, as well as incredible rock & roll singers, Neil Berg shares the often unknown stories from the fifty-year history of the music that changed the world forever.

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

FESTIVAL OF TREES, Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. Beautifully decorated trees, hjoliday entertainment, kids’ activities, door prizes, horse and carriage rides, Santa visits, and a silent auction.

Details: (970) 356-5000 or ucstars.com.

Greeley. The Winter Market is open First and Third Saturdays – December through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

NOV. 25

DEC. 1-2

NOV. 24-DEC.2

WHOVILLE HOLIDAY, 9 a.m.- noon, Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. “Who-larious” activities throughout the morning including hairstyles at the Whoville Hair Salons, pictures with the Grinch, cookie decorating, Who names and scavenger hunts. Dr. Seuss story time. Tickets go on sale Oct. 25. $5 per person.

NOV. 25

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., Greeley. This event is in conjunction with the Downtown Development Authority’s Holiday Open House event and features a free museum day. Enjoy craft activities for the kids, pictures with Cowboy Santa, check out the great exhibits, games and more.

NOV. 25

ELVIS: A FAN’S ULTIMATE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. eorge Gray and the Elvis Experience Band return for their 10th year! This very interactive, up close and personal concert will include hits from the, “Aloha from Hawaii” and the “’68 Comeback Special” concerts!

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

NOV. 26

JEWEL’S HOLIDAY HOMECOMING, 7 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. A holiday and family themed tour featuring Jewel and her band, her father Atz, brother Nikos, and other family members from the hit Discovery TV show “Alaska: The Last Frontier” performing songs, telling stories and creating memories. $72/$53/$34. Tickets: (970) 356-5000.

DECEMBER 1S T & 3RD SATURDAYS ALL MONTH

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St.,

GREELEY TRIBUNE CRAFT AND GIFT SHOW, noon-6 p.m., Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Greeley Recreation Center, 651 10th Ave, Greeley.

DEC. 2

TEDDY BEAR BASH, 9-11 a.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. A morning full of “unbearably” delightful activities (ages 3-9), including a mini-Nutcracker dance recital games, make and take crafts, door prizes, North Pole hot line, Christopher the Christmas Bear and refreshments. Tickets on sale Oct. 25. Cost: $5 per person.

DEC. 2

HOMESTEADER’S HOLIDAY, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A. St., Greeley. Enjoy candle dipping in the Carriage House as well as creating your own ornaments in the Lone Valley School.

Food concessions in the Hall House. Free admission with canned food donation.

Without donation: $4, adults; $2 for seniors 60+ and youth 3-17.

DEC. 2

HOLIDAY CRAFT MORNING, 10 a.m. to noon, Glenn A Jones MD Memorial Library, 400 S Parish Ave, Johnstown. Come on into the library and get a head start on Holiday Crafts! We’ll be offering craft activities for all age groups (children and adults). Get into the holiday spirit and join us for the fun! Contact Donna Derrera, (970) 587-2459.

DEC. 2

WINDSOR WONDERLAND, holiday celebration, noon- 5 p.m., Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., Windsor. At noon, Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrive by train. Santa pictures, petting zoo, hay rides, s’mores, snowball arena, and interactive crafts and hot cocoa. Free. Details: (970) 674-3500.

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DEC. 2

SWEATY SWEATER DASH, fun run/walk, 8 a.m. Windsor Lake. One lap around Windsor Lake, 2.25 miles. $18. Details: (970) 674-3500.

begin at 5:30 PM at Riverview Park, and proceed north on Main Street to Grand Avenue. There’ll be a bonfire for those sturdy enough to take on the cold, and we’ll cap off the evening with fireworks.

Details: (970) 785-2245.

DEC. 3

MADE FOR THE TOURIST TRADE FINAL DAY, noon to 4 p.m., Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., Greeley. Westward expansion was driven, in large part, by railroad travel that could take visitors from coast to coast quickly and conveniently.

Along with that expansion came demand for Southwest Native American pieces used not for ceremony or for cooking, but strictly for trade. “Made for the Tourist Trade” is a collaboration between the University of Northern Colorado’s Anthropology Department and City of Greeley Museums staff.

DEC. 3

TOWN OF MEAD HOLIDAY CELEBRATION, 4-8 p.m., Mead Town Hall and Mead Town Park. Santa’s workshop, 4-5 p.m.; parade, 5 p.m. at the Methodist Church Parking Lot; Tree lighting, free chili supper and entertainment, 5:30-8 p.m.

DEC. 5

ITCH TO STITCH, 1-2:15 p.m., Eaton Library, 132 Maple Ave, Eaton. Join the Eaton Library’s stitching, sewing and crocheting group as we meet fireside. All abilities and ages welcome. Contact Sheri McCaskill, (970) 454-2189.

DEC. 11

USAF ACADEMY BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. The United States Air Force Academy Band returns to our stage with a concert of holiday favorites and spirited patriotic music. For 76 years, the Air Force Academy’s premier musical organization has inspired billions of listeners through engaging concerts and masterful recordings, and continues to positively impact the global community. Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

DEC. 16

PARADE OF LIGHTS, Platteville., sponsored by Lion’s Club. The parade will discoverweld.com

DEC. 16

VISIT FROM SANTA, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Colorado Model Railroad Museum, 680 10th St, Greeley. Details: (970) 392-2934.

DEC. 20

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS, 7 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. A perfect combination of lively Irish carols, modern Christmas hits, hilarious spontaneous humor, thrilling Irish dancing, a children’s choir, and lush string arrangements giving audiences a most memorable interactive Christmas experience. Cost: $33/$25/$16. Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

DEC. 23

VISIT FROM SANTA, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Colorado Railroad Museum, 680 10th St, Greeley. Details: (970) 392-2934.

DEC. 29-31

JURASSIC QUEST, Island Grove Regional Park, 501 N 14th Ave., Greeley. Ultrarealistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs; Over 80 life-size dinosaurs in all. Visitors can interact with these huge creatures, learn about them and even ride a few.

It features realistic scenes, enormous dinosaurs, cute baby dinosaurs and lots of fun activities for kids of all ages. There are huge T-Rex and Triceratops fossil digs where young paleontologists can uncover long hidden dinosaurs bones, the “Dino Bounce” area with several, towering, dinosaur theme inflatable mazes, face painting, Dino crafts and much more!

JANUARY 1S T & 3RD SATURDAYS ALL MONTH

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St., Greeley. The Winter Market is open First and Third Saturdays – January through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter

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squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

JAN. 6, 2018

MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE PRESENTS ‘GULLIVER’S TRAVELS,’ 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. With his ship wrecked and his trusty computer JCN on the fritz, brave explorer Gulliver finds himself lost in space with nothing but an Invisible Force to guide him! Tune in as this sci-fi spin of the timeless tale of “Gulliver’s Travels” will take you out-of-this world!

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

JAN. 20

FRANK FERRANTE IN “AN EVENING WITH GROUCHO,” 7:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. Award-winning actor and director Frank Ferrante recreates his PBS, New York, and London acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast paced 90 minutes of uproarious fun. Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

JAN. 23-25

COLORADO FARM SHOW, Island Grove Regional Park, 501 N. 14th Ave., Greeley.

This event showcases products like agricultural, horticultural, craft, cattle, sheep farm produce, vegetables, flowers, Truck Pulls, arts & crafts, orticultural & Industrial marquee etc. in the Agriculture & Forestry industry. Details: http://www. coloradofarmshow.com.

FEBRUARY 1S T & 3RD SATURDAYS ALL MONTH

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St.,

Greeley. The Winter Market is open First and Third Saturdays – February through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

FEB. 2

WIZARD OF OZ, 7:30 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley.

The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto, and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man, and Scarecrow in this lavish Broadway touring production of “The Wizard of Oz,” featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs.

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

FEB. 3

WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET, 8 a.m. to noon, Zoe’s Café & Events, 715 10th St., Greeley. The Winter Market is open: Every Saturday in October. First and Third Saturdays – November through April. This season features a great line up of vendors selling hardy root crops, winter squash, greenhouse grown produce, locally raised meat, fresh bread, coffee, honey, savory spices, and more! Details: (970) 336-4167.

FEB. 3

THUNDER AND RAIN, 7:30 p.m., Hensel Phelps Theater, 701 10th Ave., Greeley.

Alternative country that’s sure to please.

Details and tickets: (970) 356-5000.

FEB. 4

GUATEMALA: LAND OF THE MAYA, 2 p.m., Hensel Phelps Theater, 701 10th Ave., Greeley. Explore the achievements of the ancient Maya. $7. Tickets: (970) 356-5000.

35th Anniversary show 2018

M A R C H fri

2

sat

3

sun

4

greeley t ribune.com/homea ndga rden

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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.

Don’t forget downtown shopping areas in Weld County. The Greeley downtown has experienced a rebirth in recent years 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, and indoor farmers markets are held in some of Weld’s communities during the winter and spring.

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.

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SHOPPING CENTERS 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, Hobby Lobby, Ross Dress For Less, Target, Best Buy, Dressbarn and so much more! 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!

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ANTIQUE SHOPS FADED ROSE ANTIQUES 202 1st Street, Ault 970-834-1070

JEN’S ANTIQUE MALL 220 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2877

LONE TREE ANTIQUES AND FINE ART 115-117 1st St., Eaton 970-301-0248 www.lonetreeantiques.com

MERICKI’S

JR’S ANTIQUES & ETC.

213 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2291 www.aultimateantiques.com

212 1st Street, Eaton 970-301-2196 The French Corner 208 First Street & 108 Oak Ave., Eaton 970-454-2088 or 970-454-1088 www.thefrenchcornershop.com

JUNK-N-JOE FLEA MARKET & COFFEE BAR

TREE OF LIFE

VINTAGE SOUL

A STEP BACK IN TIME

224 1st Street, Ault 970-834-2065

216 1st Street, Ault 720-933-1845

ALLEY ARTS & COLLECTIBLES, LLC 122 Oak Avenue, Eaton 970-454-3347 www.alleyartsco.com

208 Oak Avenue, Eaton 970-689-6779

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 discoverweld.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

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SCHEELS OFFERS DISNEYLAND OF SPORTING GOODS

BY NIKKI WORK FOR EXPLORE WELD COUNTY

JOHNSTOWN — Johnstown Mayor Scott James and his 11-year-old son, Jack, will be at the new SCHEELS sporting goods superstore when it opens on Sept. 30. Jack’s excited, but his enthusiasm doesn’t even compare to his father’s. James said on SCHEELS’ opening day, it will be hard to tell who’s the kid and who’s the parent.

That’s because SCHEELS offers more than basketballs, cleats and jerseys. The store is about 250,000 square feet of sports equipment, mini specialty stores and entertainment, such as a fully-operational Ferris wheel and a 16,000 gallon saltwater aquarium. That’s the equivalent of nearly five football fields of stuff.

SCHEELS is the anchor store for the new 2534 development in Johnstown, and according to James, it will bring an unprecedented level of economic opportunity to the area. discoverweld.com

“It’s a game-changer. It’s phenomenal,” he said. “You know, we couldn’t ask for anything more.”

James said one of the biggest benefits the town is expecting will come in the form of sales tax revenue that will be invested back into the town.

Johnstown is one of only two debtfree cities in Colorado – the other is Lakewood – and it’s largely because of sales tax money that the town can tackle projects such as a multi-million dollar recreation center, set to open next year. That rec center, by the way, is set to be about 65,000 square feet – one quarter the size of SCHEELS. But to the people of Johnstown, SCHEELS is about more than a boost in tax revenue, even though that’s a big thing for the small town. It’s about putting Johnstown on the map. It’s about getting more people into northern Colorado. It’s about offering them jobs so they stay there, he said. The

community will gain 350 new jobs at SCHEELS alone, and the company is employee owned.

“It just is kind of a locator to show that Johnstown can do business with a major international company like this and provide them with the services that they need,” James said. “It’s going to be certainly the largest retail store in northern Colorado, if not all of Colorado. It competes with the IKEAs of the world.”

The Johnstown location will be the company’s first in Colorado, and 27th store overall. Steve D Scheel, chairman of the board for SCHEELS, said he’s not worried about opening up in a market already full of stores for adventurers, athletes and sports enthusiasts. SCHEELS is so unique and so large, with about 2.2 million different items in stock, he rationalized. Plus, Colorado has always been in the game plan for the company.

“We’ve been looking up and down I-25 from Fort Collins down to Colorado Springs for the last 10 years. In the meantime, we built in Salt Lake City, Reno, stores in Montana, and we’ve always looked at Colorado,” Scheel said.

Scheel, great-grandson of the original owner, said the company has evolved over time from hardware stores to the full-blown sporting goods hubs they are today. The first store he opened was in Sioux Falls, S.D., and was 10,717 square feet. Over time, the square footages grew, and finally, a store felt like it was the perfect size - a 295,000-square-footer in Nevada.

As the sizes of the buildings grew, so did the attractions.

“In the early ‘70s, a few retail stores had a bit of entertainment, but Disney World really struck me as a place families truly enjoyed themselves. We took ideas from all sorts of venues,” Scheel said.

The first two-level SCHEELS had a huge Oak Tree in it, which was replaced with a Ferris wheel in subsequent stores, after Scheel saw one in a Toys ‘R’ Us in New York. Other items, such as fudge and roasted almonds, were added after the Scheel family saw and enjoyed them other places.

“The more attractions we added, the more families seemed to enjoy our stores,” he said. “Today, we try to have something special for all members of a family, in all corners of the store.”

The Johnstown location will have 85 specialty shops inside the store appealing to a wide range of audiences and featuring a little of everything, from a café, to shops directly tailored to women, to virtual reality simulators and more.

Johnstown SCHEELS Store Leader Mark Knudson said it will be a great, authentic fit for a community, such as northern Colorado’s, that’s already passionate about the outdoors, too.

The specialty shops employ experts who can pass their experiences on to customers.

“Our store gives these enthusiasts a chance to focus on their passions and share their knowledge and experience with customers looking for high-quality service,” Knudson said.

Mayor James has seen the new SCHEELS store a few times since the start of the process, from when the bare bones of concrete and steel in January to a sneak peek in mid-August, right before staff started stocking shelves.

It’s places like SCHEELS, along with the other stores set to open in the 2534 development in Johnstown, like an Ulta and a Burlington Coat Factory, will continue to make northern Colorado a desirable place to live.

“People are kind of finding out that northern Colorado is really a good place to be successful in attracting industry,” he said. “Folks are finding out it’s a pretty cool life up north of the metro area.”

The night before the big grand opening on September 30, SCHEELS is hosting a VIP night. James said he’s planning to attend, and bring his son.

Jack’s feeling pretty special about that, James said, and is excited to spend as much of his parents’ money as they’ll let him get away with.

“Trust me, Jack and I will be going to opening day with the same mentality,” James said. “We’ll both be little kids going in there.” exploreweldcounty.com 61

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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.

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

GREELEY GUEST HOUSE

5401 W. 9th Street, Greeley, 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, 806314017 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.

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PORTER HOUSE B & B INN

530 Main St Windsor, 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, 80729 970-895-2482 www.westpawneeranch.com 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!

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 Road, Eaton, 80615 970-454-2077 www.staycobblestone.com/co/eaton

RODEWAY INN

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

AMERICAS BEST VALUE INN

800 31st St., Evans, 80620 970-339-2492 www.americasbestvalueinn.com

SLEEP INN

3025 8th Ave., Evans, 80620 www.sleepinn.com

BEST WESTERN FIRESTON INN & SUITES 11228 Business Park Circle, Firestone, 80504 720-494-1925 www.bestwestern.com/Firestone?

COMFORT SUITES LONGMONT

11292 Business Park Circle, Firestone, 80504 720-864-2970 www.comfortsuite.reservations.com

CLARION HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER 701 8th St. Greeley, 80631 970-353-8444 www.clarionhotelgreeley.com

HAMPTON INN & SUITES GREELEY

2350 W. 29th St. Greeley, 80631 http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com

DAYS INN

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

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

2501 W. 29th St., Greeley, 80634 970-330-3404 www.countryinns.com

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CANDLEWOOD SUITES GREELEY

SUPER 8 GREELEY

COMFORT INN

COBBLESTONE INN & SUITES

2467 W. 29th St., Greeley, 80634 970-330-6380 www.comfortinn.com

309 Hil St., Kersey, 80644 970-351-9411 www.staycobblestone.com/co/kersey

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES GREELEY

SUPER 8 WINDSOR

970-339-5030 2401 W. 29th St., Greeley, 80631 www.mariot.com

1265 Main St. Windsor, 80550 970-686-5996 super8.com

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON GREELEY

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON GREELEY AT LINCOLN PARK

3530 W. 29th St., Greeley, 80634 970-330-2333 www.candlewoodsuites.com

2510 46th Ave., Greeley, 80634 970.330.1706 www.homewoodsuites3.hilton.com

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

919 7th St, Greeley, 80634 Phone: (970) 304-0000 www.hilton.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS GREELEY

2563 W. 29th St., Greeley, 80631 970.330.7495 www.hoexpress.com

A Boutique Hotel For over 20 years, visitors to UNC have been turning to the Greeley Guest House for high-quality lodging and a complimentary home-cooked breakfast, which may be just what you need to feel at ease.

Visit our website for rates, call or email for availability, or stop by to see our facilities in person.

5401 W 9th St. • Greeley, CO 80634 • 970-353-9373 ggh@greeleyguesthouse.com www.greeleyguesthouse.com

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THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS PUBLICATION A REALITY

DISCOVER

.com

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.

GREELEY GUEST HOUSE RED’S DOG’S AND DONUTS SUGAR HOUSE VISIT GREELEY WILD ANIMAL SANCTUARY

PUBLISHER Bryce Jacobson EDITOR Randy Bangert CREATIVE MANAGER Kyle Knoop BUSINESS MANAGER Doug Binder CREATIVE SUPERVISOR Amy Mayer LEAD DESIGNER Paul Beveridge

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danny Bishop James Redmond Kelli Heitstuman Nikki Work Sharon Dunn SALES MANAGERS Bruce Dennis Stephanie Mighell EXPLORE WELD COUNTY 501 8th Avenue, Greeley, 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 2 Published by: Greeley Publishing Co., publisher of The Greeley Tribune, Windsor Now, Energy Pipeline, Premiere & Business Connect

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