The Front Range is brimming with more than 20 lakes. Here's a short list of some favorites. BY
SEARCH PARKER STAFF
Pets never had it so good! Wash 'em, feed 'em and spoil 'em at Wag N' Wash. BY
KAROLYN MCAFEE
Enjoy some patio dining and take in Colorado's beautiful summer nights. BY SEARCH PARKER STAFF
THE COVER
The Thompson family from Castle Rock
July 4
Celebrate Independence Day with the Town of Parker's fireworks display! The Town will hold a remote-viewing display (no singular parkand-watch location) on Thursday, July 4. Fireworks will launch at 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. Find a list of suggested fireworks viewing locations and more information at ParkerCO.gov/July4.
July 13 | H2O'Brien Pool | 6:30 am
This event is about fun over competition. Boys and girls from ages 6 -12 of all ability levels show their skills in three events: swimming, biking, and running. This is the perfect starting point to try a tri. Participants receive a commemorative t-shirt, custom race bib, finish line medal and post-race refreshment.
July 13 | 19650 Mainstreet | 12:30 and 3:00 pm
Join us for a magical day filled with your favorite princesses, revealing that true royalty comes from within, emphasizing bravery, intelligence, kindness, and the perfection found in embracing one's unique self. Enjoy an array of captivating activities like singing performance, princess dance party and a meet and greet
Thursdays | 20115 Mainstreet | 6:30 - 8:00 pm
The lineup for this year's free concert series. May 30 - Amanda Vs Material Girl July 11 - Devil INXSide
June 6 - Eric Golden Music July 18 - CW & Twenty Hands High June 20 - Cactus Cat July 25 - Foggy Memory Boys
June 27 - The Fuzzheads Aug 1 - Titonic
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It was all smiles at our Bike to Work Day Breakfast Station presented by Rocky Vista University on June 26. The Town of Parker was proud to welcome more than 300 cyclists to our station along the Cherry Creek Trail. Thank you to everyone who visited, the Town staff who made this event possible, and our sponsors for their continued support!
Town Council unanimously approved a site plan amendment during a public hearing that will advance a long-planned addition and renovation project for Parker Town Hall. The approved site plan amendment features 32,043 square feet of new office space that will be added to the existing facility. For more information about this project, visit ParkerCO.gov/TownHallProject.
On June 4, Governor Polis signed HB24-1156, making official the state’s new “Chamber of Commerce Alcohol Special Event Permit” bill. The bill — sponsored by State Representative Anthony Hartsook — allows for special events hosted by chambers of commerce throughout Colorado, supporting economic development in our communities.
Big Jim’s Barbecue has moved! 39 North Co. welcomed Big Jim’s Barbecue to their parking lot since Jim had to relocate with the lot he was in being sold. Jim’s Hours: When you see the grill smoking! Aka (Saturday and Sunday 10-2)
Cool off this summer at one of the Front Range's great swimming holes
This 58-acre lake is part of 194-acre Memorial Park in Colorado Springs. In a convenient location, it is just east of downtown with beautiful Pikes Peak in the background. The Family Center YMCA is built next door with many options for recreation. The city-center park is a great spot for families to gather and enjoy the outdoors. This lake is currently closed due to blue-green algae. For more information, see coloradosprings.gov under Community Parks then Memorial Park.
The reservoir, with 800 acres of surface area, is located in the southeastern corner of Aurora. It provides drinking water to the city and also serves as a versatile recreation area. A unique SCUBA beach is reserved for diving on the northeastern edge and is a place for open-water certifications. A small airplane was deliberately sunk to become a diving attraction. Find more information at www.auroragov.org/things_to_do/reservoirs.
Just southeast of downtown Denver is the Cherry Creek State Park. The 880-acre surface area of water is a beautiful setting for recreation. The park is set in a natural prairie with rolling hills and affords many ways to enjoy it. Camping, water sports, trails and outdoor facilities are popular in this convenient spot. See cpw.state.co.us for more information.
In Lakewood, Bear Creek Lake Park sits on 2,624 acres of space provided for outdoor leisure. The park includes three lakes: Bear Creek Lake (110 acres of surface area) is open to motorized boating. Big Soda Lake is similar in size and limited to non-motorized boats. Little Soda Lake is only open to Water Ski School’s private boats. The park sits against the mountains and close to the Red Rocks amphitheater. Find out details at lakewood.org.
Chatfield State Park straddles Douglas County and Jefferson County and is settled near the base of the Front Range mountains. In the park, Chatfield Reservoir offers 1,423 acres of surface water. This beautiful, man-made lake offers a huge variety of outdoor recreation! Among the less unique activities provided at Chatfield are hot air ballooning and model air plane flying in a specialized field. See cpw.state.co.us for more information.
This beautiful neighborhood lake is a convenient spot to fish or enjoy the view around the lake trail. Bingham Lake is a 30-acre lake in the Pinery subdivision in Parker. Bingham Lake is privately owned by the Pinery Water & Wastewater District. This allows for fishing on the lake without the need for a fishing license. There is also a playground in the neighboring greenspace. See www. pinery.org/bingham-lake for more information.
Wag n’ Wash, Aurora, is your go-to destination for all things pet-related! Independently owned and operated, their boutique offers a unique, personalized shopping experience for you and your furry friends.
At Wag n’ Wash, they are passionate about pet health and ways to feed healthier. They offer a wide variety of premium all-natural pet foods, supplements and treats. They also offer an easy-to-use self-serve dog wash facility, or you can schedule a groom and nail trim with one of their top professional groomers. Wag n’ Wash also carries a large selection of toys and supplies.
• Curated Selection: Handpicked products to ensure the highest quality. From organic treats to eco-friendly toys, your pets deserve the best!
• Personalized Service: Their friendly staff takes the time to get to know you and your pets, offering tailored recommendations to meet your specific needs.
• Unique Products: Discover exclusive items you won't find in big box stores.
• Conveniently located: 15405 E Briarwood Cir, Aurora Monday – Saturday, 9am – 7pm and Sunday, 9am – 6pm.
Beat the heat by stopping in for a visit to get a treat from our fabulous staff and check out our selection of rechargeable cooling beds and refreshing goodies.
Some
1. Pavement Temperature: Pavement, asphalt and concrete can absorb and retain heat, making them much hotter than the air temperature. On a 77°F day, pavement can reach temperatures of 125°F.
2. Burn Risk: At 125°F, skin contact with pavement can cause burns in a matter of minutes. Dogs' paws can be burned on hot surfaces, causing pain, blisters, and long-term damage.
3. Test the Pavement: Before taking your dog for a walk, place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
4. Time of Day: Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement is cooler. Avoid midday walks when the sun is at its peak. If you must walk your dog during hotter times, consider using dog booties to protect their paws, and always carry water to keep them hydrated.
5. Signs of Injury: Watch for limping, licking or chewing at the feet, red or darker-than-usual paw pads, and blisters or wounds. If you notice any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.
In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.
Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.
$ ............................. Under $15 $$ ............................... $15-$25
$$$ ......................... Over $25 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New
CHERRY VILLAGE
ASIAN GRILL
Offering a Chinese and Vietnamese-centric menu in a relaxed atmosphere.
17001 Lincoln Ave, #A, Parker 303-840-7338 $$
DANCING NOODLE
A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food.
10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$
INDOCHINE
A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.
19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$
JOHN HOLLY’S Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.
9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
With the claim, “Best Ribs in Colorado,” Hickory House is a must-try. Delicious, traditional BBQ is served in a mountain lodge surrounding. You’ll go home full and happy. To bring the BBQ to you, Hickory House offers take-out, catering, and even on-site pig roasts!
A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker
720-851-1005 $$
LA PETITE CREPERIE
The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.
19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)
Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone.
18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
720-500-5555 $ (N)
New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day!
19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)
Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$
A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $
20 MILE TAP HOUSE
Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$
Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$
TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.
19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$
THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN
Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$
CRANELLI’S
Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.
10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$
DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN
Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.
872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$
PORTOFINO
Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$
SCILEPPI’S
A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$
VIA BACI
Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$
ADRIANNA’S
Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$
Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.
9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$
LA CASITA
Vibrant, cantina-style eatery offering Mexican cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.
18951 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-842-5181 $$
Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner. 19553 E Mainstreet, Parker
303-840-0325 $$
Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.
19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
303-840-6574 $$
Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.
10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$
Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$
VALERIE'S
Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.
971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $
A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes.
3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock
303-814-2829 $$
DOUG'S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.
18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-476-7162 $$
A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $
PARKER GARAGE
The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.
313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$
Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it!
11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$
High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$
Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don't miss the brunch.
115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)
A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$
A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $
Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$
LIL’ RICCI’S
New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$
PARRY’S
NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe.
363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines
303-814-2487 $$$
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-792-2571 $$$
Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848 $$
Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132 $$$
VISTAVINO MODERN
Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner!
611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$
There is so much to be proud of within the Douglas County School District.
We have incredible students, fantastic teachers and sta , and amazing parents/guardians and community members who all work together to make this school district one of the best!
For the rst time in a decade, DCSD is the TOP scoring district in the Denver/Metro area!
DCSD is one of the only districts in the country to have met or exceeded our 2019 (pre-pandemic!!) scores in every subject and every grade.
DCSD is one of the only school districts in the state to increase pro ciency levels across all student subgroups.
DCSD is one of the nation’s leaders “blurring the lines” between PK-12 and higher education through our incredible Concurrent Enrollment/Career & Technical Education o erings (Over 20K seats!)
DCSD is rated number 11 on the list of the 250 “most envied” school districts in the country by Test Prep Insight.
Sun's out, umbrellas up!
It's patio season in Colorado, and these are some of the best around.
Family owned restaurant that offers a great variety of Mexican appetizers, seafood and deserts. And the view from the patio somehow makes the food even better.
19600 Solar Circle | 303-862-4406
Frosty drinks, good vibes; it's taco heaven. Add a patio that looks out toward Hess Resevoir and there is enough reason to celebrate.
12231 Pine Bluffs Way, Suite 101 | 720-638-6030
Eating the best ribs in town can be done anywhere, but enjoy them out on the Hickory House patio for a treat. And where else can you order a pig roast?! 10335 S. Parker Road | 303-805-9742
The best place to find New York-style pizza also has a roomy patio to relax and talk with friends. 16526 Keystone Blvd | 303-220-7422
Adding a brewery to an established Mexican joint was risky, but the Ramirezes aren't done. They have plans to add a second level to the patio seating. The party continues at Los Dos. 10335 S. Parker Road | 303-805-9742
One of my favorite patio dining experiences. The serene spot, right on main street, makes peoplewatching a favorite pastime, if you can pull yourself away from the food for a minute.
19420 Mainstreet | 720-389-8105
Comfort food gets even more comfortable when you are streetside in downtown Parker. The ambiance of the patio makes you loose track of time. If the nostalgia doesn't get you, the chicken fried steak will.
11020 South Pikes Peak Drive | 720-708-2889
A great family atmosphere. Still right on Main Street, but removed enough that you seemingly don't hear the traffic. An additional plus of covered or open air patio seating option.
19751 Mainstreet | 303-945-4168
Nobody parties like Tailgate Tavern! The most well-known patio dining in town, and with good reason. Don't look for a quiet evening here. Live bands keep the party rolling.
19552 Mainstreet | 303-841-7179
The second-story venue serves up large portions and great service. It also offers incredible views from the 2500 square foot outdoor pergola-covered patio. Fire pits, sofas, and mounted TVs complete the atmosphere.
18595 Mainstreet | 720-572-1910
WEST MAIN TAPROOM & GRILL
The largest, albeit temporary, patio by far. The gorgeous setting lets you unwind and relax in the cool summer night air. You may not ever want to leave.
18595 Mainstreet | 720-826-3689
Waxing the City Parker is a familyowned company. Jeff and Bernadette Bille have lived in Parker for the last 20 years, raising 3 kids, Meghan, Luke, and CJ Bille, in our community and attending Regis and Ponderosa High Schools.
We pride ourselves on the expertise and training of our estheticians, who undergo specialized training to ensure they deliver precise and efficient waxing services, using our signature Cerology® waxing technique.
Make
As always, Kat was wonderful! She is fun, personable and very very knowledgeable about all things hair. I look forward to my visits with her and her advice is always spot on. I love the way I look when I leave! ~ Becky
I love my hair so much. I got my hair dyed from natural orange to blonde. It was done perfectly and I had a wonderful time. I will definitely be coming back for color and cuts! ~ Quinn
Having owned Salons in my in my younger years. I might be more critical than others, but There’s nothing to be critical of in this salon. Talent is superb. Everyone is always friendly, courteous, and helpful. The salon is always kept clean. And on the rare occasion that my stylist is not in or available when I need something right away, there are good records kept so that another stylist can follow them and get the job done for me. My sister has her hair done here also and her hair has never looked so good. ~ Dede
Very satisfied like always! Cindy always meets our expectations and is so sweet. ~ Nancy
I have been going to Lena for a long time. She is very knowledgeable about her trade and I have always trusted her. ~ Barb
