Blog - Page 3 of 3 - Brews Food Travel

Why go to Louisville, Colorado for the weekend? It’s not hard to grasp why Louisville, CO is listed time and time again on Best Places to Live lists. The historic coal-mining town offers an appealing combination of small-town charm and big adventure, with a dose of culinary excellence and craft beer bravado to boot. The town’s historic downtown has a sweet-as-pie feel featuring antique wooden buildings, craft breweries, dining, java shops, and more, combined with a viral art scene and stints of live music. Louisville offers a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, which is essential for active minded tourists. Rocky Mountain National Park is less than an hour away, and loads of ski resorts are within two hours drive. 48 Hours in Louisville Colorado When To Go: Frankly, anytime of the year is enjoyable but summer time you can enjoy live music, art walks, farmers markets and patio dining. A Breakfast Must: The Huckleberry This gem, located in historic downtown is housed in the town’s original post office. Their breakfast menu is diverse with a little something for everyone. They even make their own gluten-free pastries! Get Your Caffeine Fix: Bittersweet Café & Confections Offering a wide range of coffee and hot drinks, Bittersweet Café and Confections is your spot for your morning pick-me-up. If you’re not into the full breakfast at Huckleberry or just need a snack, Bittersweet is the spot for you. Morning Activities: Lotus Day Spa Zen sanctuary without the sticker shock of big cities, this is the perfect spot for the person that needs a break from the hustle and bustle. Coal Creek Golf Course If you need something a little more active to start your day, grab a coffee to go at Bittersweet, and hit the links at Coal Creek Golf Course. Enjoy views of the Front Range foothills, while enjoying a peaceful morning of golf. Lunch Refueling Spots: Waterloo Classic watering hole with beers, burgers, wings and Texas Sized Nachos. This restaurant is located in the original theater for the community. We’d recommend an early or later lunch at Waterloo, it’s really popular, thanks to its great food and awesome patio, so if you’re there at noon, expect to wait. Lucky Pie This is the go to for pizza and beer in the remodeled 1950’s post office. 21 beers on tap, locally sourced ingredients and a great patio make this a perfect spot to refuel after a busy morning. Afternoon Activities: Hit the Coal Creek trail If you’re looking for a little exercise after your lunch, hop on the Coal Creek Trail. If you don’t want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent a bike from e-bike of Colorado. They have a range of rental bike options, and reasonable prices, so for just a little cash, you can get in a few hours of great Colorado biking. Tilt Pinball We love this spot! A great old-school arcade with pinball, arcade games, pool, skee-ball, air hockey and all things awesome from your childhood. If you’re looking for an indoor activity for the afternoon, maybe to beat the heat, check out this spot. And if you missed lunch, or need a snack, check out their food menu! Enjoy Some Suds At: Gravity Brewing This spot is tucked away in a funky corner of downtown Louisville. Their beers are award winning, and brewed by engineers who call themselves “just shy of obsessed” about making great brews. With a cool space vibe, and galactic themed brews, you’re sure to find something here for every type of beer-lover. Crystal Springs Brewing Company With two tap rooms, you can pick the spot that fits your adventure. Crystal Springs is one of the original breweries in Louisville. They make good beer, served in their small, cozy tap rooms. If you’re looking for a quite spot to enjoy a beer, Crystal Springs is the place for you. Murphy's Tap House Very Popular Local Watering Hole with an excellent beer selection and great happy hour specials. Murphy’s will take you away from the historic downtown area and towards Boulder. Murphy’s has an extensive list of craft beers from around the country. Try a local favorite or a flight of new beers you haven’t had before. If you’re hungry or need a snack, they have a full pub menu to enjoy. Dinner Indulgence: Empire lounge Chef Jim Cohen is dedicated to creating a great casual dining spot with no lack of quality. Easy to find on Main Street in Downtown Louisville, you won’t be disappointed in a meal at Empire Lounge. From salads and burgers to pasta and steak, there is something for everyone in your group at the Empire Lounge. This spot is busy, especially when the weather is nice. We’d recommend reservations if you don’t like to wait. Zucca If you’re looking for a great traditional Italian restaurant, you’ll enjoy Zucca. Housed in a Tuscan styled building, on Main Street Zucca will fill your craving for traditional Italian fare. Their menu ranges from the basics to more extravagant dishes, and there’s even pizza, if you didn’t get your fill at lunch! LuLu's Barbecue If you love traditional Texas style barbecue, LuLu’s is the spot for you. The menu here is small, but the portions are surely Texas sized. All the meats are smoked in house, and the sides are made fresh daily. A gem on the menu are the burnt ends. A favorite of barbecue lovers, and limited in quantity. If you are a fan, get there early, the burnt ends go quick! Be aware, an early dinner here is best, LuLu’s is popular, and small, so you’re likely to have to wait, if you get there during the dinner rush. 740 Front One block off Main Street, 740 Front is the best spot for a great cocktail and an even better steak. Housed in a quaint Victorian home, the bar is a must see. Try the steaks for two, or share some small plates. 740 Front has a great wine list, so it’s a great spot for an after dinner drink as well. The Melting Pot A Colorado institution, and around since the 1980s, this local chain is quite unique. Enjoy a shared meal with your friends and family, with traditional fondue. Choose from cheese or oil, a variety of meats, breads and veggies. For dessert try the chocolate fondue. Grab A Night Cap: Por Enjoy a nightcap at Por, before you call it a day. While known for their extensive wine menu, there’s a little bit of everything to sip on. If you aren’t a fan of wine, try a local whiskey or even a craft beer. Pair your nightcap with a cheese board or something sweet. On a warm Colorado evening this is the perfect place to enjoy the patio. Where to Stay: AirBNBs are a great option if you want to stay close to downtown Louisville. There are also options through Homeaway.com and VRBO.com if you aren’t into chain hotels. There are plenty of chain hotels in the Louisville area, but a bit of a drive from the downtown area. The closest hotel is the Hampton Inn and Suites in Lafayette. Speak Like A Local: Its Loo-us-ville not Loo-ey-ville You Haven’t Been Until You’ve Tried: Sweet Cow A local favorite for ice cream. Made in small batches from locally sourced ingredients, this spot is not to be missed! You’ll be surprised at the size of this ice cream shop, located next door to Lucky Pie. Get your pizza and desert in one quick stop! Share your Top Weekend Finds in Louisville, CO Email Us- Brews Food Travel- brewfoodtravel@gmail.com