Mountain Town Guides by outdoor DIVAS : Georgetown
Aug 2nd 2026
A Perfect Day Trip to Georgetown, Colorado: History, Scenic Drives & Small-Town Charm
Tucked just off I-70 about 45 minutes west of Denver, Georgetown is one of Colorado's most charming mountain towns. While many travelers speed past on their way to the ski resorts, those who take the exit are rewarded with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, fascinating mining history, scenic mountain views, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the interstate.
Often called the "Silver Queen of Colorado," Georgetown was one of the state's wealthiest mining communities during the silver boom of the late 1800s. Today, more than 200 historic buildings still stand, giving visitors a glimpse into Colorado's mining past while offering plenty of modern reasons to linger.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon, a scenic stop on your way to or from Vail or Summit County, or a full day exploring Colorado history, Georgetown is well worth the visit.
Stroll Historic 6th Street
The best way to experience Georgetown is simply by walking.
Historic 6th Street is lined with colorful Victorian buildings that now house locally owned boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, cafés, and specialty shops. Unlike some of Colorado's larger mountain towns, Georgetown has managed to retain much of its original character, making it feel authentic rather than overly commercialized.
Take your time browsing the shops, enjoy a cup of coffee, and admire the beautifully restored architecture that tells the story of one of Colorado's earliest boom towns.
Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad
One of Georgetown's most iconic attractions is the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge steam railroad that once connected Georgetown with neighboring Silver Plume.
Originally completed in the 1880s, the railroad became famous for its impressive engineering, including the spectacular Devil's Gate High Bridge that allowed trains to climb the steep canyon between the two mining towns.
Today, visitors can ride authentic steam locomotives through Clear Creek Canyon while enjoying incredible mountain scenery. Seasonal rides, holiday trains, and optional mine tours make this a favorite activity for both families and history lovers.
Step Inside Colorado's Mining History
Georgetown's story is deeply rooted in mining, and several attractions help bring that history to life.
The Capital Prize Gold Mine offers guided underground tours where visitors can walk through original mine tunnels and learn how miners extracted gold and silver from the surrounding mountains.
History enthusiasts should also visit the beautifully restored Hotel de Paris Museum, once considered one of the finest hotels in the Rocky Mountains. Built in 1875 by French immigrant Louis Dupuy, the hotel welcomed travelers from around the world and remains one of Colorado's best-preserved historic landmarks.
Drive the Scenic Guanella Pass
If you have extra time, continue your adventure along the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway.
Connecting Georgetown with Grant, this breathtaking drive climbs above 11,000 feet through forests, alpine meadows, and expansive mountain vistas.
In summer, the road provides access to numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. During autumn, Guanella Pass becomes one of Colorado's premier destinations for vibrant golden aspens. Wildlife sightings, including moose, bighorn sheep, and elk, are common throughout the year.
For experienced hikers, the trailhead for Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's famous 14ers, is located along the pass.
Enjoy Local Shopping and Dining
One of our favorite things about Georgetown is that it still feels like a real Colorado mountain town.
You'll find independently owned shops selling everything from handcrafted jewelry and local art to outdoor gear and specialty gifts. Antique lovers can easily spend an afternoon browsing unique treasures, while several restaurants and cafés offer everything from casual sandwiches to hearty mountain fare.
It's the kind of place where you can slow down, chat with shop owners, and enjoy a leisurely lunch before continuing your adventure.
Georgetown in Winter
While many people associate Georgetown with summer sightseeing, it's equally charming during the winter months.
Fresh snow transforms the historic downtown into something that feels straight out of a holiday postcard. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, winter photography, cozy cafés, and easy access to nearby ski areas like Loveland Ski Area, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. If you're heading into the mountains for a ski weekend, Georgetown makes an excellent stop.
For a truly memorable winter experience, reserve tickets on the Georgetown Loop Railroad's holiday trains. From Santa's Rocky Mountain Adventure to the enchanting Lighted Forest, it's one of Colorado's most beloved family holiday traditions.
Why We Love Georgetown
At outdoor DIVAS, we're always looking for places that remind us why we love Colorado.
Georgetown isn't about luxury resorts or nightlife. Instead, it offers something increasingly rare: authentic history, locally owned businesses, spectacular scenery, and the chance to slow down and enjoy the mountains at a different pace.
Whether you're riding a historic steam train, exploring an old gold mine, wandering Victorian streets, or simply stretching your legs before continuing west on I-70, Georgetown delivers a memorable Colorado experience that's worth far more than a quick stop.
Sometimes the best adventures begin with taking the exit everyone else drives past.
Local Tip
If you're heading west on I-70, Georgetown makes the perfect place to take a break before tackling the Eisenhower Tunnel traffic. Grab a coffee at Mountain Mama's, and don't miss their locally roasted espresso and homemade baked goods, explore downtown, enjoy lunch, or spend an hour wandering the historic streets. You may find yourself adding Georgetown to your Colorado itinerary every time you head for the mountains.
The Bottom Line
Whether you're interested in Colorado history, scenic drives, mountain shopping, or simply discovering one of the state's most charming small towns, Georgetown deserves a spot on your list. Its beautifully preserved Victorian downtown, fascinating mining heritage, and easy access from Denver make it one of the best day trips in the Rockies.
Next time you're driving I-70, skip the urge to rush to your destination. Take the Georgetown exit instead. You might just discover one of Colorado's best-kept secrets.