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Moving to Colorado has been a great decision for many reasons. For instance, I live 30-minutes away from an annual event that’s sole theme is to celebrate golden retrievers. I’ve put together a Guide to Goldens in Golden and how you can best plan to partake in this annual event next year. Whether you’re a local or a visitor traveling in for this experience, the tips below will help!
National Golden Retriever day is February 3rd, and in 2019 the city of Golden decided to host the first ?Goldens in Golden” event to celebrate Golden Retrievers. What is Goldens in Golden? It’s an event solely to celebrate golden retrievers.
Since this inaugural event, each year the number of goldens and humans that attend increase. This is truly ?Heaven on Earth” for Golden Retriever lovers, and a fun event for all ages! Below you’ll find all the details to plan a trip to attend for next year. Details are subject to change each year, but I will share the details of 2025 and link the official Goldens in Golden event website.
Pet Friendly Hotels in Golden
Colorado is know its dog-friendly atmospheres, and Golden is no exception. There are a few hotels I’d recommend for you and your dog to stay!
If you want to be in the heart of Golden, then The Eddy Taproom & Hotel is a great option. It’s walkable to downtown and to many of the restaurants recommended below. If not here, then The Golden Hotel will offer you stunning views of the Foothill Mountains. The proximity to downtown Golden can’t be beat either.
If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, I’d consider staying a little outside of Golden. The Denver Marriott West is down the highway and about half the cost if you were to stay in Golden. The Residence Inn is also an option to consider that’s affordable and highly rated hotel.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Golden
Kick off your time in Golden at the Golden Mill for lunch or afternoon libations. This year they hosted a pre-party! Golden Mill has food and drink options along with in-door and outdoor seating.
For breakfast, Bonfire Burritos is a way to indulge in Colorado-style breakfast burritos. We’ve tried several breakfast burrito spots, and Bonfire Burritos has held the number one spot. If you’re visiting Golden for Goldens in Golden, parking over here could be easier to find.
Coffee Shops
I personally love all the local coffee shops in Golden, but a top favorite is the Windy Saddle. It’s easy to find; located right under the Golden Welcome Arch. Higher Grounds is another great option, away from the crowds.
Bob’s Atomic Burgers is my husband’s favorite burger spot in Golden; great for lunch or dinner! Their patio is dog friendly.
Honorable mentions: Atomic Cowboy, Buffalo Rose, Miner’s Saloon.
Goldens in Golden Schedule
Washington Ave closed to traffic from 10:30-1:30pm. My personal preference is to get there early in the morning before parking becomes tricky and the lines to all the cafes get long.
Group Photos under the Golden Arch at 11:30, 12:00, and 12:30! Before each photo, the area near the Arch gets extra congested and I recommend staying to the sides if you don’t like crowds.
What to Expect
There are vendors set up around Washington Ave along with many other golden events. I personally can’t keep up with all of the happenings in Golden! I’ll refer you to their main site to check out when it gets closer to the event for beyond a guide to Goldens in Golden.
Parking – there is free and paid parking options. The event website will have updated details closer to next year. Our personal experience is finding free street parking; we’ve gotten lucky each year!
Dog Rules
Although an event to celebrate Golden Retrievers, all leashed, trained, and friendly dogs are allowed. We’ve seen dogs of all shapes and sizes at this event enjoying every minute alongside the golden retrievers.
Plan to bring dog waste bags and leashes. Consider bringing a water bowl, although many restaurants are dog friendly and have water bowls outside their establishment.
I’m looking forward to seeing you at Goldens in Golden next year!
