The best things to do in Arvada

“If you want a proper adrenaline jolt without leaving the north burbs, 13th Floor Haunted House Denver packs an officially licensed Jason Universe: Survive the Night walkthrough, The Stitchworks, the Crimson Queen’s cathedral, plus axe throwing, five-minute mini escape games, and a 21+ tiki tarot inside the Shriekeasy.”

From the Thornton newsletter, September 10, 2026

“National Western Stock Show is your excuse to lean into your inner rancher, with crowd-pleasing rodeos, legit horse shows, a lineup of livestock shows, a kid-magnet petting zoo, and plenty of shopping. Established in 1906, it’s a local staple that still feels uniquely Denver.”

From the Denver newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Swap another couch scroll for a few frames at Lucky Strike Cherry Creek, where 40 slick lanes meet a lively sports bar, a legit arcade, and an on-site pro shop. Easy pick for date night or a group hang when you want friendly competition with your snacks and sips.”

From the Denver newsletter, August 6, 2026

“With one membership, Blackstone Country Club unlocks 36 holes across Blackstone and Black Bear, plus tennis, pickleball, fitness, swimming, and lively dining and social events. Perfect if you want more sunset rounds, more court time, and a community that actually remembers your name.”

From the Aurora newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Skip the subtitles this week and catch the latest releases en tu idioma at Sonora Cinemas of Arvada. From Hollywood hits to películas en español, it’s a fun, easy excuse to trade Pearl Street for popcorn and feel like you’re at the premiere with your vecinos.”

From the Arvada newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Lucky Strike Westminster is basically your neighborhood upgrade to game night, with 40 slick lanes, a lively arcade, and a sports bar slinging solid bites and drinks. Round up the crew this week, chase a few spares, then let the high score trash talk carry you into the evening.”

From the Westminster newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Tee it up on Flying Horse Resort & Club’s two championship courses with Pikes Peak doing its majestic thing, then unwind with a proper spa session and a steakhouse dinner that actually earns the hype. Tuscan-inspired vibes meet Rockies views... perfect for a midweek reset.”

From the Arvada newsletter, September 5, 2026

“When your irons start freelancing, The Greg Mastriona Golf Courses at Hyland Hills has a driving range, the 9-hole Blue Course for a quick loop, plus two Par 3 courses and Glow Golf... easy reps and real-deal fun to work into this week.”

From the Westminster newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Venue for trampoline-based activities, zip-lining, sports & more, with various theme nights.”

“Challenging escape rooms with themes such as blackbeard's brig, the outbreak, and a casino heist.”

“Tight, tree-lined fairways, small greens and a few well-placed lakes make Meadow Hills Golf Course a bring-your-A-game kind of round, with legit history too... it even hosted the Denver Open back in 1961, and the views will make your bogeys sting less.”

From the Centennial newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Basic theater with stadium-style seating & snack bar, showing new releases & discounted matinees.”

“When you need a no-brainer hang with the crew, Dave & Buster's Westminster nails it with wall-to-wall sports on giant screens, a sprawling arcade that flips between nostalgia and chaos, and a menu built for sharing while you trash-talk over air hockey and shooters.”

From the Westminster newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Need a low-key hang this week that still brings the bragging rights? Putter's Pride packs 54 holes across three immaculately landscaped courses, complete with dragons, windmills, and sneaky ponds, so you can challenge friends, entertain the kids, or rally a party crew and crown a neighborhood champ.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Free-admission tourist attraction showcasing artwork.”

“Greenway Park Golf Course is a fun 9-hole par-3 in Broomfield with a quick pace and approachable layout, crowned GolfPass’s Best Short Course in the country for 2025. Ideal for sharpening wedges after work, joining a casual league, or convincing a friend golf actually is relaxing.”

From the Broomfield newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Classic golf in your own backyard, West Woods Golf Club offers three unique courses: Sleeping Indian, Cottonwood, and Silo, with scenery and shot variety for every skill level. Finish strong with the indoor golf simulator or grab a bite at the restaurant, then call it a winning Arvada day.”

From the Arvada newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Beat The Bomb Denver turns your crew into a hazmat-clad strike team racing through five game rooms, laser maze included, to stop a paint, foam, or slime bomb. lives forever.”

From the Commerce City newsletter, August 26, 2026

“When you need a quick hit of fun, Adventure Golf & Raceway delivers with mini golf that feels like a tiny vacation and go karts that scratch the speed itch. Round up your crew, talk a little friendly smack, and make Tuesday night feel like summer again.”

From the Broomfield newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Foothills Golf Course has options for whatever your calendar and game allow, with a Championship 18, Executive 9, and Par 3 plus legit practice ranges, lessons for adults and juniors, and a new golf simulator. Book a tee time, sharpen the swing, then brag in the group chat.”

From the Denver newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Willis Case Golf Course keeps things interesting with tree-lined, sloping fairways, small subtle greens, and bunkers that make you earn that par. Add in honest-to-goodness Rocky Mountain panoramas and you’ve got the perfect excuse to sneak in a round this week, no big trip required.”

From the Thornton newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Murphy Creek Golf Course keeps things fun with a prairie-links vibe, generous landing areas, big greens and some sneaky water, plus an award-winning practice setup. S. Amateur Public Links and nabbed a Golf Digest Top 10 Best New Courses nod in 2002.”

From the Greeley newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Dial in your swing at The TRN Grandview, where two state-of-the-art simulator bays meet a full bar pouring craft beer, wine and cocktails. Round up friends for the 9-hole putt-putt, jump into leagues or lessons, and make this week feel like a win.”

From the Thornton newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Whether you're chasing the newest spectacle or that under-the-radar indie, Harkins Theatres Northfield keeps it simple and close to home. Easy meet-up spot, plenty of showtimes, and the kind of popcorn-fueled escape that turns a random Tuesday into actually-good plans.”

From the Denver newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Green Valley Ranch Golf Club pairs an award-winning 18-hole championship course with a breezy 9-hole par-3 and a legit practice scene using Trackman Range plus indoor sims offering 400 courses.”

From the Denver newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Walking tour showcasing Denver's best street art, including murals and graffiti, with insights into the artists' stories.”

“Nickel-A-Play keeps it simple and affordable... load a game card, rack up tickets, and let the kids loose while you sneak a couple rounds yourself. Birthday on deck?”

From the Brighton newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Lucky Strike Wheat Ridge is the local pick when you want more than just open lanes, with 40 lanes for league nights or casual games, an action-packed arcade, billiards, and a lively sports bar. Private rooms and a cozy lounge make hosting the crew painless.”

From the Arvada newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Aqua Golf lets you send drives into the water on a lighted range, then settle bragging rights on 36 holes of mini golf with real water hazards and sand traps. A quick hop from Lakewood, it’s a laid-back pick for casual hangs or team events with a clubhouse.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Rent-A-Theme Entertainment brings the fun to you with science-backed play experiences that actually get coworkers, neighbors, and kids laughing together. Think mobile mini golf, giant life-sized Legos, carnival and giant board games, even an inflatable movie screen...”

From the Thornton newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Modern multiplex chain showing blockbusters & a few independent films; some venues offer childcare.”

“Iconic artwork featuring a 40-foot bear standing peering into the Denver Convention Center.”

“Lake Arbor Golf Course in nearby Arvada is a city-set oasis with emerald fairways, tranquil ponds and creeks, and the best greens in the Denver area. Strong practice facilities and lessons for all ages make it a reliable tune-up spot when your swing starts feeling... improvisational.”

From the Broomfield newsletter, September 2, 2026

“When cabin fever hits, Great Wolf Lodge delivers an easy win with an 84-degree indoor water park, MagiQuest, ropes course, arcade, and the Howl In One mini golf course. Grab a day pass or stay the night, then let the kids happily burn off serious energy.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Legacy Ridge Golf Course is an 18-hole Arthur Hills design with wide fairways, big greens, and sweeping mountain views for every skill level. Book a tee time this week, then reward yourself with a post-round bite at Big Fork at Legacy Ridge.”

From the Arvada newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Children's indoor playground with trampolines, climbing areas, and slides, plus a restaurant.”

“If you can snag a guest spot this week, Denver Country Club delivers 1887 pedigree with classic golf, tennis, and a time-honored caddie program that keeps tradition real, perfect for a midweek reset when you want something quietly iconic without leaving the metro bubble.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Kennedy Golf Course is Denver’s all-skill-level playground with 27 holes plus a nine-hole par 3, a lighted range for quick tune-ups, and mini golf and FootGolf for the crew. Line up a round this week, bring a friend, and turn errant shots into good stories.”

From the Thornton newsletter, August 11, 2026

“From a championship 18 to a breezy 9 and two par-3 tracks, plus a full driving range, The Greg Mastriona Golf Courses at Hyland Hills fits any vibe. Try a quick loop, bring the kids to junior golf, or spice it up with Glow Golf or Nine & Dine.”

From the Arvada newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Comfortable cinema showcasing first-run releases in theaters with reclining seats and free refills on popcorn and soda (some of which is self-serve).”

“Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club in nearby Aurora brings Troon-managed polish to an Arthur Hills-designed 18-hole track with generous fairways, scenic views, and public tee times worth planning around. After the round, the Eagle’s Nest Restaurant and a 37,000-square-foot clubhouse make post-round hangs or events easy.”

From the Parker newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Par-3, 9-hole golf course in central Denver, ideal for beginners and practice.”

“Emerald Greens Golf Course is a scenic, walkable 9-hole par-3 that winds around Windsor Gardens’ lake, bringing water into play, with a putting green, chipping green, and practice area.”

From the Denver newsletter, September 11, 2026

“With tech-infused indoor mini golf in RiNo, a killer patio, and a chef-driven menu of shareable bites and handcrafted cocktails, Puttshack - Denver turns a casual hang into proper bragging rights. Grab your crew this week and see who tops the leaderboard while you pretend it’s all about the ‘vibes’.”

From the Denver newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Nature preserve featuring 250 acres of woodland, riparian areas, and wildlife, with trails and an educational center.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Trade the traffic buzz for birdsong at Stoney Creek Golf Course, a valley-set track with mature trees, a babbling brook, and mountain views. It’s relaxed golf that still sharpens your game, no houses to stress over, plus lessons for all ages and skill levels when you want a little coaching tune-up.”

From the Broomfield newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Whether you want a round with proper Denver skyline drama, City Park Golf Course delivers an urban track with views that make bogeys sting less. Wrap it up on the City Park Tavern patio, a 5280 Top Patio winner, and call it the easiest Sunday upgrade in town.”

From the Denver newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Movie theater screening new releases as well as independent, foreign & avant-garde flicks.”

“Holey Moley Golf Club Denver turns putt-putt into a full-on hangout with 27 wildly themed holes, cheeky cocktails, and legit burgers.”

From the Littleton newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Theater complex with multiple screens, all-stadium seating & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Walnut Creek Golf Preserve is an Audubon Certified Signature Sanctuary with 18 holes framed by native prairie and sweeping Front Range views. It’s an award-winning championship track with roomy practice areas, perfect for dialing in your swing this week while actual wildlife provides the gallery.”

From the Westminster newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Overland Golf Course is one of Denver’s historic tracks with city and mountain views, narrow fairways and small, well-bunkered greens that reward straight hitters. Big grass range with chipping and putting greens, a 3-hole junior course, rentals and a legit pro shop make it an easy day trip.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Former home of the Colorado Open, this high-plains links layout mixes native grasses, real elevation swings, and big-sky views to keep your focus honest. Saddle Rock Golf Course also has one of the area’s largest practice tees and on-site Saddle Rock Grill, so you can warm up, then wind down.”

From the Aurora newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Elitch Gardens is Colorado’s Thrill Capital with coasters, family rides and a full water park, plus crowd-pleasers like drone shows, the new Glizzy Gardens hot dog fest, and Fright Fest. Located near downtown Denver, it’s a solid weekend plan when your group’s tastes can’t agree on just one kind of fun.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, September 13, 2026

“If you need a reset this week, Lucky Strike Lakewood brings big-lane energy with 40 slick lanes and enough friendly competition to make group hangs actually happen. Rally the crew, reserve a lane, and see who still has that sneaky curve.”

From the Arvada newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Venue with rooms featuring a variety of games with physical challenges, along with a laser game and hoops games.”

“Pine Creek Golf Club pairs a links-style front nine with a canyon-style back, big elevation changes, and Pikes Peak views that make even a mishit feel almost profound. This week, take on a true championship test with natural creeks on 15 holes and options for every skill level.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Whether your kiddo needs to burn energy or you just want a breather, Colorado Bounce Company has Denver’s only indoor kangaroo jumper, tot zones, and an open layout that makes supervision easy. Swing by for open jump this week or book a low-stress birthday, then let them bounce themselves into bedtime.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, September 16, 2026

“AMF Sonesta Lanes nails the nostalgia and the fun right here in Thornton with 36 shiny lanes, a lively arcade, billiards, and outdoor sand volleyball. Round it out with bar bites and drinks, easy online lane reservations, and leagues or parties when you want something more than the usual hang this week.”

From the Thornton newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Just a short hop from Centennial, Kennedy Mini Golf Course delivers easygoing fun with multiple mini-golf courses plus a solid driving range to groove the swing. Ideal for after-work bragging rights or kid-approved weekend outings, it keeps the golf vibes light, local, and surprisingly competitive.”

From the Centennial newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Wellshire Golf Course brings that timeless, tree-lined vibe with the only public Donald Ross design west of the Mississippi. Celebrate its 100-year history, walk in Ben Hogan’s footsteps, then chase pars on the 18 and finish at Golfers Pub, the perfect excuse for a midweek swing tune-up.”

From the Denver newsletter, August 28, 2026

“With some of the best greens in Colorado and a true shot-maker’s layout designed by Dick Phelps, Golf Club At Heather Ridge delivers classic 1972 vibes without the fuss, plus leagues and tournaments, all at one of the better values in the Denver metro.”

From the Littleton newsletter, August 24, 2026

“A quick Westminster mood boost, Butterfly Pavilion surrounds you with 1,800+ free-flying butterflies, a front-row seat to the Chrysalis Chamber, and cool encounters with tarantulas like Rosie. It’s part zen greenhouse, part science lab, all local treasure for kids, date nights, or solo decompression.”

From the Westminster newsletter, September 1, 2026

“iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Colorado Springs lets you float in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel with one-on-one coaching, kid-friendly energy, and room for friends to watch. Perfect for birthdays, team outings, or just shaking off the weekday grind with a flight that actually feels like flying.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Geemu Geemu is a Colorado claw machine arcade packed with plushies, blind boxes, and trading cards, built for friends, families, and couples to actually have fun. Bookable birthday party packages keep the tokens flowing while they handle the cleanup, so you just play, cheer, and claim bragging rights.”

From the Westminster newsletter, September 15, 2026

“' There’s a driving range for practice, the vibe is community-first with a scholarship fund, and booking online is simple.”

From the Westminster newsletter, September 7, 2026

“OneLine Mural turns a Tennyson Street stroll into a brain-pleasing scavenger hunt with an interactive tour of murals built from a single unbroken line that never intersects. Created by local artist Jonathan Applegate, the pieces are oddly hypnotic, and you can even shop originals or prints if one grabs you.”

From the Lakewood newsletter, September 5, 2026