Looking for the best things to do in Lakewood? Denver’s western neighbor sits right at the foothills, pairing easy mountain access with a walkable downtown district and big regional parks. Locals point to the shops and events at Belmar, hiking on Green Mountain, and recreation at Bear Creek Lake Park.
Things to do in Lakewood
Belmar
Lakewood’s walkable downtown-style district — shops, restaurants, a cinema, seasonal events and a plaza with an ice rink in winter.
Green Mountain & the Foothills
William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain for hiking and biking with sweeping city-and-mountain views — plus quick access to Red Rocks and the foothills.
Bear Creek Lake & Crown Hill
Bear Creek Lake Park for swimming, paddling, camping and trails, and Crown Hill Park’s lake and wildlife refuge.
40 West Arts District
Murals and galleries along the West Colfax creative corridor.
Things to do in Lakewood at night
Belmar’s restaurants, bars and cinema anchor the evening, with Denver’s nightlife and Red Rocks concerts both a short drive away.
Free things to do in Lakewood
- Hiking Green Mountain
- Crown Hill Park and its trails
- The 40 West murals and Belmar plaza
What Lakewood locals actually recommend
The best foothills trails, Belmar spots, quiet lake corners — that comes from people who live here. On Neighborhood Nurturers’ Lakewood community, real neighbors answer “what should I actually do this weekend?” Join your Lakewood neighbors free →
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Lakewood, CO?
Shop and dine at Belmar, hike Green Mountain for city-and-mountain views, enjoy Bear Creek Lake Park’s beach and trails, explore Crown Hill Park, and check out the 40 West Arts District — with Red Rocks and the foothills minutes away.
What is Lakewood, Colorado known for?
Its foothills location and quick mountain access, the walkable Belmar district, big parks like Bear Creek Lake, and being one of Denver’s largest, most convenient western suburbs.
What are free things to do in Lakewood?
Hiking Green Mountain, Crown Hill Park and its trails, and the 40 West murals and Belmar plaza are all free.
Is Lakewood worth visiting near Denver?
Yes — for the foothills hiking, Bear Creek Lake, and Belmar, plus its proximity to Red Rocks, it’s a great outdoor-and-downtown stop just west of Denver.