The Centennial State is known near and far for its rich mining history but have you ever taken the time to explore some of these old historical sites and businesses along the way? Since many have not seen this side of history, we created a scenic mining route of sorts that passes through old mining towns in Colorado and includes stops at old-time businesses and mines!
Located through a stretch of old mining country, this scenic route showcases many of the state's original towns, mines, and businesses! Here are a few of our top choices for stops to make along the way:
The link to the original interactive map can be found here.
1. Wooden Nickel (Crested Butte)
Has all of this driving made you work up an appetite? If so, you have come to the right place, as the Wooden Nickel has mouthwatering steaks served with a side of fascinating history! Housed inside a c. 1880 building, the Wooden Nickel is the perfect place to experience history firsthand via an up-close look at mining-era architecture.
2. Kochevar’s Saloon (Crested Butte)
Another excellent example of mining-era architecture can be found just down the road from the Wooden Nickel a la Kochevar's Saloon! Established in 1880, Kochevar's has worn many hats through the years, including that of a brothel, bowling alley, and, finally, a popular saloon. (Need we mention that drinking was also a favorite past-time of miners?)
3. Salida Downtown Historic District (Salida)
Welcome to the Salida Downtown Historic District, AKA the largest historic district in Colorado! Founded in 1880, the Salida Downtown Historic District is home to an impressive 100+ turn-of-the-century buildings that house everything from restaurants and boutiques to coffee shops, antique stores, and outdoor gear retailers. Be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore, as, in addition to the retailers, the Historic District also houses galleries and hosts great special events.
4. St. Elmo General Store (St. Elmo)
Billed as "one of the most accessible and best-preserved ghost towns in the West," St. Elmo, Colorado, is something special, thanks to the former mining community's well-preserved homes and buildings, like that of the old St. Elmo General Store. While most of St. Elmo is deserted, the General Store - housed in the old Miner's Exchange - is alive and well and sells everything from gifts and antiques to drinks, snacks, and apparel! (Please note: the St. Elmo General Store is open during the summer.)
5. Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine (Cripple Creek)
You didn't think you would be taking a scenic mining route without seeing an actual mine, did you? Welcome to the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine, the richest mine in state history that just so happens to also be one of the few remaining active mines! Check out the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine's Visitor Center photos, re and core samples, mining procedures, and more.
Do you have a favorite place that you would like to see featured here on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! For even more historic road trips, Take A Thrilling Road Trip To The 5 Most Abandoned Places In Colorado!
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