15 Best Things to Do in Broomfield (CO)

Located in the north-central metro Denver area between Westminster to the southwest and Thornton to the southeast, Broomfield is a city of about 55,000 residents that resides in the county of the same name.

Though it’s close enough to its big-city neighbor to the south to make day trips convenient and popular options, Broomfield is more known for its wide-open spaces, abundant outdoor activities, and proximity to the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Whether it’s fine dining, historic attractions, or long hikes in the wilderness you’re after, you’ll find everything close by, so staying active and engaged shouldn’t be an issue.

Below are 15 things to do in and around Broomfield, Colorado.

1. Broomfield Community Park

At more than 40 acres, Broomfield Community Park is a sprawling complex that includes a variety of recreation options popular with those of most ages, interests, and levels of physical ability.

The park’s amenities include multiple playgrounds and sports fields, as well as batting cages and a skate park.

There’s an outdoor pool as well that’s open seasonally, and the park hosts the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The park is conveniently located near the downtown area and is perfect for those who’d rather take a quiet morning or afternoon stroll and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

2. Eagle Trace Golf Club

Eagle Trace Golf Club is a par-71, 18-hole facility that plays slightly more than 6,600 yards.

It’s most well-known for its large lakes, abundant sand traps, and the impressive stands of cottonwoods lining many of the wide fairways.

The course has been described as scenic, challenging, and fun, and there are a number of tee options that make it appropriate for seniors, children, and those without much experience.

Inside, there is a full-service restaurant and bar, and banquet rooms that are available to rent for special occasions.

Reserving your tee time in advance is wise if you’ll be playing during high-demand times.

3. Denver Premium Outlets

Though most travelers don’t head to the Rockies to waste their time shopping, for those in need of a little change of pace or some much deserved retail therapy, a trip to Denver Premium outlets would be a wise place to spend a few hours.

The facility is anchored by many international brands like Michael Kors and Kate Spade; though many are exclusive and pricy, more affordable options are available too.

Shoppers can expect daily deals that often make the items on sale much less expensive than they’d be at malls. There are also a variety of dining options that include everything from burgers and Asian cuisine to French fries and smoothies.

4. The Broomfield Auditorium and Gallery

Featuring nearly 300 comfy seats and a calendar of events chock-full of dance, drama, music, and movies, The Broomfield Auditorium and Gallery is an often-overlooked community resource that should be enjoyed while visiting the area.

As both a traditional and performing arts venue, it’s common to see exhibits featuring local and regional art in the lobby, and previous visitors have commented on the world-class lighting and sound systems that rival those in big cities.

The facility is accessible for those who use wheelchairs, and there’s plenty of free parking too. Consider pre-purchasing tickets if you’ll be attending a popular show.

5. Paul Derda Recreation Center

Located on Lowell Boulevard in town, the Paul Derda Recreation Center is an expansive facility spread over nearly 90,000 square feet that offers visitors a huge array of activity options.

Though the center has activities and amenities for those of most ages, its seasonal waterpark is a big hit with families and features slides, a lazy river, and a pool for those looking to swim a few laps.

When the weather isn’t conducive to being outside, fit and outdoorsy types appreciate the indoor climbing wall. For those with kids in-tow who need a little alone time, there’s a licensed on-site childcare facility.

6. 4 Noses Brewing

4 Noses Brewing has been open since 2014. Since then, it has attracted a loyal following of beer lovers who appreciate its welcoming setting – and the 20 or so beers it usually has on tap at any given time.

Their selections range from refreshing pilsners and hoppy IPAs to traditional porters and stouts, and they’ve got a few fruit-infused options for those looking for a little twist.

It’s a family-owned business, and there are often food trucks on-site serving up hot and tasty fare that goes well with beer.

Outdoor seating is a big hit in the spring and summer months, and live entertainment is regularly offered as well.

7. Ooka Sushi & Asian Cuisine

For the most part, steaks, chops, burgers, and other hearty fare are what visitors to Colorado are after. But those who prefer to broaden their culinary horizons while in the area will have ample options to do just that.

Ooka Sushi & Asian Cuisine is much-loved for its unique combination of Asian food offerings, which include those from Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan, to name a few.

Fried rice, Vietnamese noodle soup, and sushi are generally the highlights of most diner’s meals, but there are lots of lesser-known but equally delicious options for the adventurous, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable.

8. The Broomfield Veterans Memorial Museum

For lovers of local and military history, the Broomfield Veterans Memorial Museum is a must-visit attraction.

Founded in 2002, it is located in the city’s historic post office building, and its collection is one of the most extensive of its kind in the state.

The museum’s permanent exhibits touch on every war and conflict in the country’s history but focus on those between World War I and the current wars in the Gulf.

Weapons, uniforms, photographs, and first-hand accounts of those who’ve served make for poignant reminders of the price paid by so many local men and women.

9. Azitra

Phrases like mouth-watering, contemporary, and rare gem are often used by locals to describe Azitra Indian restaurant.

It’s conveniently located near popular city hotels, making it an easy option for those who’d rather not venture far from their home base. In addition to traditional Indian food, it features one of the city’s most impressive selections of wine.

From lamb and shrimp kebabs and fragrant rice to masala, curry, and garlic naan, their entrees are full of the vibrant and exotic flavors for which Indian cuisine is known, and they offer cocktails and plenty of locally brewed beers as well.

10. Aero-Cruise Balloon Adventures

Hot Air Balloon Over Colorado Rocky Mountains

With endless stretches of blue sky, fantastic mountain views, and temperate weather during the summer months, Colorado is a hot-air ballooner’s paradise. For those who’ve never experienced a balloon ride, it’s an experience that few ever forget.

Aero-Cruise Balloon Adventures has been a family run business since 1979. In that time, it has been operating safely and thrilling guests in the process.

Flights generally last about four hours and offer stunning bird’s eye views of the majestic landscape, especially for those who aren’t particularly freaked out by hovering thousands of feet over the rocky ground below.

Check their website for hours, rates, and package options.

11. Navah Coffee House

Though in many parts of the county independent coffee shops are rarer than flightless birds, they seem to be doing a thriving business in many western states like Colorado.

Navah Coffee House in Westminster features a full menu of hot and cold coffees, smoothies, and juices. Unlike many of their competitors, they offer wine and locally-made beers as well.

They use high-quality beans to make memorable coffee that’s full of flavor and subtle nuances, and for those with empty stomachs, they offer cake, bagels, sandwiches, and wraps.

Fast Wi-Fi, comfy seats, and a chill vibe make it a popular hang-out for remote workers as well.

12. Big Dry Creek Trail

Big Dry Creek Trail, Westminster — Big Dry Creek Trail

Hikers and bikers have nearly endless options when visiting the Rocky Mountain State, and for those who find themselves in Broomfield with spare time on their hands, Big Dry Creek is perfect.

The trail runs nearly a dozen miles between Broomfield and Westminster and winds its way through a variety of natural habitats bursting with local wildlife species that are easily seen, especially in the lowlight morning and afternoon hours.

Most of the trail is only moderately difficult, making it appropriate for a wide range of ages and levels of physical ability.

Dogs are okay too, as long as they’re leashed and cleaned up after.

13. Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center

Though many people find insects unpleasant, nothing could be further from the truth in the case of butterflies.

They’re fascinating and beautiful creatures that have interesting life cycles, and many of them undertake annual migrations that often exceed a thousand miles.

Westminster’s Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center are operated by a not-for-profit organization dedicated to highlighting and protecting these amazing creatures, many of which are from far-flung corners of the globe.

The center is comprised of nearly 10,000 square feet of climate-controlled space, and visiting is usually a clear standout for many first-time guests.

14. The Frightmare Compound

Since the early ‘80s, the Frightmare Compound has been scaring, terrifying, and generally unsettling visitors who’ve tired of more mundane attractions like history museums and city parks.

Frightmare is the Denver area’s oldest attraction of its kind and was the mastermind of a local man who lived and breathed haunted houses.

It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, and it may be unsuitable for kids and those who scare easily. But for bold travelers in search of an exhilarating experience, it’s a one of a kind attraction that really shouldn’t be passed up.

It’s located on Yukon Street in Westminster; just follow the screams and blood trails.

15. Bell Tower of Westminster

By the standards of the house of horror, the Bell Tower of Westminster may be a bit on the lame side, but it’s a unique historical icon that deserves a visit.

The bell tower is located in the downtown city hall complex and ties the city with the English city of the same name many thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

Though climbing to the top of the tower is a big no-no, it’s an often-photographed site that stretches nearly 14 stories into the Colorado sky, making it one of the area’s tallest structures.

It’s located on West 92nd Avenue and is free to visit.