Lookout Mountain Nature Center

Nice little information center with lots of interactive exhibits for children to explore. A really easy drive from Denver.
Pack a lunch and have a picnic!

Bored on a Saturday, my family trekked west on 70 looking for something to do. One unnerving (I’m afraid of heights) mountain ride later, we we’re at Lookout Mountain Nature Center.
Saying this place is great for folks who love nature would be an understatement. Theirs exhibits detailing the areas native animal and plant population, an observation room complete with binoculars and a children’s reading area.
Across the street is the actual «look out point» that provides a picturesque view of Golden and surrounding areas. There weren’t any guard rails that I saw so be careful especially with the little ones.
There are nature paths behind the center easy enough for a 5 year old to maneuver, but watch out for the spiders, they’re everywhere.
On the same compound, there’s an early 20^th century mansion. Unfortunately it it isn’t open on weekends unless you have a reservation, so plan ahead for that if you’re interested.
All in all I can say my family enjoyed the whole experience especially when we were walking back to the car and happened upon a Deer grazing near the nature center’s parking lot. The deer was so comfortable with humans that he continued to eat for at least 10 minutes without running away even though we were only a couple feet away. My daughter was amazed but I assure you, her mother and I were too.
Golden, CO markets itself as a destination for «two-​hour vacations» and Lookout Mountain didn’t disappoint in turning what could have been a boring Saturday into a fun learning experience for the whole family.