Colorado – Brews Food Travel

Lafayette, Colorado is one of our favorite Front Range communities. A quick 15 minute drive from our home, Lafayette is a cozy old community, tucked into the growing Denver metro area. The great thing about Lafayette, is that it has a bit of something for the whole family. Its proximity to Denver and Boulder make it a great central spot for the beer lover, or the outdoor lover that wants to get the full “Colorado” experience without having to go too far from the airport. Honestly, it’s a great weekend spot, and if you need more to do, you can spread your adventure to Boulder, Louisville or Erie for even more fun! 48 Hours in Lafayette Colorado When To Go: Colorado is one of those states that is great to visit any time of the year. So, you’re safe making your visit to Lafayette, CO just about any time. I however, think that Lafayette is great in the fall. There are great family farms with fun fall activities that you just don’t get during other times of the year. Not to mention the beautiful colors of the old trees in this historic community are hard to pass by. A Breakfast Must: Hands down, for a great breakfast, you must visit Tangerine. This spot has great traditional, breakfast favorites with a new flair. Try a Benedict or the biscuits and gravy for a new spin on the traditional, or for the sweet tooth, don’t miss the brioche French toast. Ingredients here are locally sourced when possible. Be forewarned, this spot is so good, that it gets busy. They don’t take reservations, so on the weekend, be prepared to wait a little bit for a table. Get Your Caffeine Fix: For a lighter option or a quick morning cup of joe, Cannon Mine Coffee is the place. These folks specialize in fair trade coffee, pastries and breakfast burritos. If you aren’t into the big breakfast at Tangerine, Cannon Mine Coffee will fill you up, just enough to be ready for a great lunch. Morning Activities Shop ‘till You Drop Antiques are the name of the game in Lafayette. Check out the variety of antique stores and boutiques specializing in one of a kind objects, wares from local artisans and unique finds from days gone by. Since Lafayette is one of the coal mining communities in the Boulder area, keep your eyes open for cool old mining treasures while you’re shopping. Fun for the Kids! Lafayette is home to the WOW! Children’s Museum. Once you’ve got your shopping fix, your kids probably need a place to let off some steam. Full of fun, hands-on learning activities, the WOW! Children’s Museum is fun for the whole family. Lunch Refueling Spots Efrain’s Mexican is a local gem. Known for it’s traditional Mexican fare, and reasonable prices, it will fill you belly with great food, and get you ready for an afternoon of fun. Don’t worry, if you have folks in your group that don’t like Mexican food, Efrain’s had a diverse menu that includes kid-friendly favorites, burgers and steak. The Post Brewery and Restaurant is a great spot, serving us southern-style favorites. Locally, they are known for their fried chicken, giant biscuits and house-brewed craft beer. You won’t go hungry here, the portions are well worth the price. And if it’s a nice day, pick a seat on the patio and enjoy a round of corn hole while you sip your beer and enjoy a great meal. Afternoon Activities: After a filling meal, you’re going to need a bit of exercise to get your blood moving. Head south of the main downtown area to Rock Creek Farm. This local pumpkin farm is a favorite for hayrides, kids activities and finding that perfect Jack-o-lantern pumpkin. Weekends are busy here, especially close to Halloween, so expect some traffic delays. If you aren’t into pumpkin patches and farms, check out Waneka Park and Lake. This local nature area has great walking trails that get you close to nature, in the middle of a neighborhood. If the weather sends you indoors, or you’re just looking for some interesting local history, check out the Lafayette Miner’s Museum. This local gem will walk you through the coal mining past of Lafayette and the surrounding area. Filled with interesting artifacts and photos, you’ll get an in-depth look at how folks made a living, not that long ago. Enjoy Some Suds At: Before you head to dinner, stop for an afternoon brew at Liquid Mechanics Brewing Company. This craft brewery is making award winning brews, and is situated in an old auto repair garage. Liquid Mechanics is popular and has a rotating line-up of local bands. On the weekends, be prepared for a crowd and a bit of a wait for a beer. Don’t give up though, the beer is well worth the wait! If Liquid Mechanics is too busy for your style, head over to Odd13 Brewing. This low-key craft brewery is known for its unique beer styles, and its even more creative packaging. If you’re looking for a snack to go with your beer, try one of the local food trucks parked outside of the brewery. Dinner Indulgence: Community is a great spot for rounding out your day. With a seasonal menu that changes with what’s available locally or is in season, you’ll find a variety of dishes that should make even the pickiest of eaters, happy. Food is served “family style” with the intention of sharing. Their philosophy is that strong bonds are created around the dinner table so sharing is a must at this spot. If you didn’t get you fill of brews before dinner, check out their great beer list. If you just want a good steak for dinner, check out the Black Diamond Restaurant and Tap House. A small menu with simple, but classic meals, centered on the steak selections, will make any meat eater drool. With options ranging from salads, sandwiches, steak and seafood, you can’t go wrong at the Black Diamond. You’ll get a bit of the local history in this spot, so take a few minutes to read the menu and get a bit of education with your dinner. Grab A Night Cap: William Oliver’s Publick House is a must to round out the day. This spot has a gigantic selection of whiskey and scotch. If you are new to whiskey and scotch and don’t know what to try, go with one of their house flights. These tiny tastes will help you learn what you like, or allow you to try something new, without a big commitment. Pair your scotch or whiskey with one of their tasty deserts. We absolutely LOVE the whiskey bunt cake. The mix of textures and flavors is amazing. Where to Stay: Unfortunately, lodging is sparse within the downtown area of Lafayette. The closest chain hotel is located just a short drive away. If you are looking for something quainter, there are a variety of AirBNB options in the downtown area. Make sure you do your research when you are selecting an AirBNB, and make sure that your host will provide a refund is something on their end, goes wrong. Speak Like A Local: We’re not in the south, so around here it’s pronounced “La-fee-yette”. You Haven’t Been Until You’ve Tried: Chocolaterie Stam. Fill pockets with European style chocolates, coffee and gelato. This spot has some unique sweets that you won’t find in many other places, so take a break and enjoy a bit of sweet indulgence. Share your Top Weekend Finds in Lafayette, CO! Email Us- Brewfoodtravel@gmail.com