If you love small towns, you are guaranteed to love Colorado, which is chock-full of modest cities ranging from Switzerland-inspired to farm and agriculture communities to – dare we say – downright hip and eccentric. Does the latter appeal to you the most? If so, do yourself a favor and plan a trip to Lyons, AKA a “Hip Little Town Everybody Loves”:
Tucked away in Boulder County, Lyons is home to nearly 2,200 residents and is billed as not only being a “hip town,” but as the “Double Gateway to the Rockies.”
Billy Hathorn/Wikimedia Commons
From the 17th Century through the mid-19th Century, Lyons was home to the Ute Nation, who were initially attracted to the area for its vast grasslands and ample bison, but were later driven out during the Colorado Gold Rush.
Lyons Colorado Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Officially incorporated in 1891, Lyons was not only a vast grassland and gold rush hot spot, but also a thriving ranching and agricultural town, followed by a hub for the Denver, Utah, and Pacific Railroad, and - finally - a thriving sandstone mecca that still remains today.
Lyons Colorado Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
In addition to the profitable sandstone industry, Lyons boasts easy access to both the North and South St. Vrain Creeks, as well as hiking, biking, and water sports galore.
Flickr/William Andrus
Can you guess why it got the nickname of the “Double Gateway to the Rockies”?
Flickr/Bryce Bradford
If you need a break from the great outdoors and want to slow down a bit, there is plenty to see and do around town, including one-of-a-kind shopping (97% of which are locally-owned); delicious restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries; unique lodging; and more.
Lyons Colorado Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
As if you needed another reason to love Lyons, it even has much of its original sandstone architecture, 15 of which are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Billy Hathorn/Wikimedia Commons
To learn more about this fun and hip community, please visit the Town of Lyons’ website.
Lyons Colorado Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Do you have a favorite spot in Colorado that you would like to see featured on Only in Your State? If so, nominate it here! For even more to see and do around Lyons, check out You Will Never Forget Your Stay At This Tiny Hotel Hiding In Colorado.
Billy Hathorn/Wikimedia Commons
Lyons Colorado Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Flickr/William Andrus
Flickr/Bryce Bradford
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Address: Lyons, CO, USA
