Best Ways to De-Stress Before the New Year

The holidays can make November and December very stressful months of the year. Now that it is almost the New Year, you will want to start the year off on the right foot. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to eliminate your leftover holiday stress by utilizing all of the great amenities at Outlook Golden Ridge. Become stress free right in the nick of time with these ways to de-stress before the New Year!

Exercise

There is no better way to eliminate stress than to get a good workout in. You can head to our TrimGym to work away your holiday stress. As an added bonus, you’ll even burn off some of those holiday feasts and goodies. If yoga is your exercise of choice, go to the Namaste Nook for some yoga and meditation. You will feel centered and refreshed no matter what form of exercise you choose to partake in.

Enjoy the Simple Things

When you’re feeling stressed, it helps to relax and enjoy the simple things. Bring your favorite furry friend down and give him or her a bath in our Paw Spa! As the suds wash down the drain, so will your stress! Another idea is to shoot a game of pool in our community clubhouse. You can relax and enjoy some alone time and play by yourself, or play with one of your neighbors! Afterwards, you can read a book in one of our comfy lounging areas, or surf the web on a clubhouse computer! Another option is to simply gaze out the windows and enjoy the beautiful views we have of Downtown Golden! When you take the time to enjoy the simple things, your stress will melt away.

When you are a part of the community at Outlook Golden Ridge, you have so many amenities to enjoy! Don’t let them go to waste. Make sure you take the time to relax before the New Year and watch the stress you built up during the holidays disappear. What is your favorite amenity at Outlook Golden Ridge? Share with us a selfie of how you relax before the New Year!

Best Places for a Cup of Coffee in Golden

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Wintertime in Golden, Colorado offers everything from incredible scenery to fun outdoor activities. Of course, it also offers cold weather. Whether you’re a fan of the cold or like to hibernate in the wintertime, everyone can use a hot cup of coffee to warm up when the weather starts to get cold. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious coffee shops close to your home at Outlook Golden Ridge for you to stop in and warm up.

Higher Grounds Cafe
Higher Grounds Cafe encompasses the Golden spirit. The atmosphere is perfect for locals looking for an incredibly relaxing and delicious experience. The coffee here is adored by anyone who tries it and the staff always puts their best foot forward to make your visit a pleasant one. Snack on one of their delicious pastries while you enjoy the company and the atmosphere.

Bean Fosters
Any book lover needs to stop in to Bean Fosters. Sink into one of their comfortable seats with one of their books and cups of coffee and you will never want to leave. Some locals rave that you won’t be able to find a better cup of joe in town! Another feature that makes this place even more enjoyable is that wifi is available.

Cafe 13

If you are looking for more than just great coffee, Cafe 13 can give you an all around great dining experience to warm you up this winter. Other than the food and coffee, the homey atmosphere is sure to keep you satisfied for however long you choose to stay. Locals love the breakfast options and the impeccable service. Filling up with great food and great coffee will be just what you need before heading back into the winter weather.

Nothing beats a great cup of coffee in the wintertime. Whether you want to enjoy it with book, a quiet atmosphere, a filling breakfast, or while people watching, there is a coffee shop in Golden for you to fit right in to warm up this winter. What do you look for in a coffee shop? Did your favorite make our list? Share with us and your neighbors where and why you love to get coffee in Golden!

Thanksgiving in Golden

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For some people, Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to enjoy staying in the kitchen all day to cook a feast. But for others, they much prefer to leave all of the cooking to the professionals over the holidays. If you’re the latter, there’s plenty of places right here in Golden for you to enjoy an incredible Thanksgiving meal without having to lift a finger. After all, the holiday season is meant to be spent relaxing, getting away from it all, and enjoying yourself. Here are our choices for the best places to dine out in Golden this turkey day. 

Bridgewater Grill

Bridgewater Grill is ready for anyone with a hearty Thanksgiving appetite to stop in and enjoy their delicious food. They are offering oven roasted turkey, smoked prime rib, bourbon glazed pork steamship, and much more. The best part? It’s all buffet style. Also, you’ll only have to drive 10 minutes from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge to indulge in this feast. That’s the perfect distance for you to quickly get home for a Thanksgiving nap!

The Briarwood Inn

If you love getting dressed up, or are looking for an extremely delectable and elegant meal, make a reservation at the Briarwood Inn this Thanksgiving. Locals have been coming to the Briarwood Inn on Thanksgiving for years because of the food and atmosphere. This is a true fine dining experience. You will be treated to a lavish entree, gourmet sides, and an impeccable dessert. By the end of the meal, you will feel like royalty. This dining experience is also only a 10-minute drive from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge.

Spending Thanksgiving in the kitchen is not for everyone. If you’re someone who enjoys dining out over staying at home, try these places in Golden for your Thanksgiving feast. You don’t have to travel far from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge to enjoy the benefits of enjoying Thanksgiving out this year. Did we miss your favorite Thanksgiving spot in Golden? Share with us and your neighbors where you’ll be heading this holiday for the best Thanksgiving food in Golden!

Best Places to Stargaze Near Denver this Fall

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There’s nothing better than heading outside and soaking in the fresh air, especially when the sky is particularly gorgeous. Luckily, there’s plenty of beautiful spots in the Denver area that provide a breathtaking place to enjoy the sky! So just bundle up in a blanket, sit back, and take in all that nature has to offer at one of these Denver spots!

Aspen Meadows Campground

For the perfect weekend getaway, head to Aspen Meadows Campground in Golden Gate Canyon State Park. It is only a little over a 35-minute drive from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge. This is the perfect place for anyone who wants to feel away from it all in seclusion. Stargaze at the beautiful sky during the night, and then participate in another outdoor activity offered at the park during the day, such as horseback riding or rock climbing. Just pay the parking fee and the weekend is yours to get away from it all and gaze upon the universe!

Chamberlin Observatory

The University of Denver’s Chamberlin Observatory is the right fit for anyone who prefers an educational presentation along with being able to view the gorgeous night sky. Attending the observatory, instead of stargazing off on your own, is a whole different way to experience the beauty of the universe. This is also a great place to bring along any youngsters in your life. You won’t have to break the bank either. Admission is $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for children.

The UFO Watchtower

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys longer road trips, the UFO Watchtower is a great choice for anyone seeking stargazing opportunities. A little over a three-hour drive brings you to this extremely clear view of the sky. You may even witness some of the extraterrestrial activity that is rumored to go on there! Entrance is $2.00 a person, $5.00 a car, or $10.00 to camp there for the night.

Whether you want to visit for the night or for the weekend, there’s plenty of opportunities around Denver to have a relaxing night gazing upon the universe. Where is your favorite place to get away from it all and stargaze near Denver?

The Best Museums to Visit in Golden, Colorado

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The city of Golden is full of activities and culture for everyone to enjoy. For those of us who love to embark on educational experiences such as visiting museums, Golden, CO does not fall short. Our beautiful city offers many museums featuring various historical topics. When you’re looking for something new to do for the weekend, look to these educational hotspots.

Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum

The Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum is unlike any other in the country. Dedicated to mountaineering, this is the perfect place for anyone interested in science and climate to learn more about through an interactive and riveting experience.

Buffalo Bill’s Gravesite and Museum

Buffalo Bill’s Gravesite and Museum has many permanent exhibits that honor the life of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, but also has a new temporary exhibit featured each year. That means that one visit to this unique museum may not be enough! The biggest experience is, of course, to see Buffalo Bill’s grave on Lookout Mountain.

Clear Creek History Park

Clear Creek History Park is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the history of the early settlers of Golden. Though it’s open every day of the year, be aware of the weather when you plan your visit, as the attraction is outdoors. The best part? This scenic location is open to the public free of charge!

Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaur Ridge is a wonderful place for people of any age. If you have kids, or find yourself babysitting for a day, this would be a fun and educational outing to enjoy together. There are trails to walk, along with indoor exhibits. Guests are able to touch and interact with some of the remains. All in all, Dinosaur Ridge is an experience you do not want to miss.

Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum

If you are interested in learning about an obscure topic, the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum should go on your list. There are 10 different quilt exhibits rotated during the year, which means there’s something new to see every month or so.

Living at Outlook Golden Ridge allows you to live in an incredible environment and experience all that the city of Golden has to offer. Let us know what you think of our list. Do you have a favorite museum in Golden that we forgot to include?

The Best Halloween Events in Denver

It’s that time of year! The weather’s getting colder and the buzz of Halloween excitement is in the air. Maybe it’s because of their love of all things scary, but Halloween is considered by some to be the best celebration of the year. Because of the thrills chilling events can bring, the month of October is filled with incredible events to enjoy. Check out our list of some of the best events in Denver to decide what attractions are going on your “Can’t Miss” list.

Elitch Gardens Fright Fest
Elitch Gardens provides the ultimate Halloween experience by hosting two separate events - one by day and one by night. The daytime includes family-friendly Halloween fun, but when the sun goes down, be prepared to endure some fright! The events are open Friday - Sunday from October 2nd to November 1st. Will you make the drive from Outlook Golden Ridge to check out this spooky attraction?

Scream Scram Halloween 5K Run/Walk
Don your creative, sparkly, spooky or gruesome costume and get running at the Scream Scram Halloween 5K! Whether you take a stroll or make a run for it, the trail through Denver’s Wash Park is packed with beautiful scenery and sure to delight your senses this time of year. At the finish line, you’ll get to celebrate by enjoying a few seasonal treats The event takes place on October 16th at 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., but be sure to register before you run!

Victorian Horrors XXII at the Molly Brown House Museum
We all love to shiver while we read scary stories this time of year. But now is your opportunity to take your terror to the next level! This year, explore the Molly Brown House Museum while listening to authors read tales of horror. Be aware that this event might not be suitable for children under a certain age. Tickets are available for October 16th - 17th and the 23rd - 24th at 6:00 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Papa Legba’s Voodoo Bash
This Halloween take your party spirit to the next level at this New Orleans-themed event! Look your best and most festive while you enjoy musical acts, burlesque dancers, jugglers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers. The party starts at 9:00 p.m. on Friday October 30th and lasts until 2 a.m.!

How will you make sure you experience the right amount of spook this Halloween season? Stop by one, or ALL, of these seasonally appropriate events!

20 Facts We Can’t Believe You Didn’t Know About Denver

You live in Denver. You love Denver. But did you know these fun facts about Denver? Check out these 20 fun facts and see how much you know! Impress your coworkers or neighbors at Outlook Golden Ridge with your new-found knowledge!

1. The First permanent structure in Denver was a saloon.

2. Denver brews the most beer than any other city in the country.

3. Denver was the first place to turn down hosting the Olympics.

4. Led Zeppelin played their first show in Denver.

5. The dome of the Colorado state capital is made with 24K gold.

6. Denver is one of the best cities for singles.

7. The first Chipotle was in Denver.

8. Denver is one of the sunniest U.S. cities.

9. Denver’s obesity rate is lower than most cities.

10. Bob Dylan briefly lived in Denver.

11. Denver’s elevation means the sky looks bluer than other cities.

12. A man from Denver was the first person to trademark the cheeseburger.

13. It’s easier to get drunk in Denver because of the altitude.

14. At the beginning of the 20th century, there was a “no kissing rule on train platforms in Denver.

15. One of the first Denver settlers named many streets downtown. One was named after his wife, another was named after his mistress.

16. There are only 11 other cities that also have all four major sports team.

17. Denver has the most baby boomers of any other city.

18. Denver has the most city park area in the country.

19. The creator of the blue mustang sculpture died during its creation when a 9,000 pound piece of the sculpture fell on his leg.

20. Elvis Presley flew to Denver’s Stapleton Airport just for sandwiches for him and his friends. The sandwiches were made of peanut butter, grape jelly, and bacon.

Are there any facts on this list that we missed? Leave us a comment and share your facts about Denver with us!

Best Pizza Places in Golden, Colorado

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Pizza is one of the most popular foods in America. This makes Pizza Month one of the best months to take the time to celebrate. There’s nothing better than incredible local pizza places, so we’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in Golden, Colorado to grab a slice or two! The best part? All these great restaurants are near your home at Outlook Golden Ridge.

Woody's Wood Fired Pizza
Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza is raved about by locals or anyone who has passed through. Some people consider it to be the best pizza they have ever had and even worth traveling for if you’re not in the area. Another noteworthy attribute of Woody’s is the atmosphere. Customers consider the environment to be fun and inviting. The combination of tasty pizza and an electric atmosphere makes this spot a must try!

Mannie & Bo's Pizzeria

Mannie & Bo's Pizzeria is perfect for anyone who loves Chicago style pizzas such as deep dish and Chicago thin-style pizzas. Also, if you’re looking to try something a little different, give their taco pizza a try. They also offer a wonderful selection of beers and wines and feature great happy hour deals.

Anthony's Pizza & Pasta

Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta believes that the only way to make a pizza is to use the freshest ingredients. Their pizzas are hand-tossed, and their pizza dough only has six simple ingredients: flour, salt, sugar, yeast, water, and pure imported-Italian olive oil. However, the most important reason to give Anthony’s a try is simply because it tastes amazing.

Bono's Italian Takeout

Bono's Italian Takeout serves authentic Italian food, but this is also the best place for those who love pizza with white sauce. White sauce lovers need to try the chicken scampi pizza; you’ll think you died and went to heaven. Wash it down with a glass of wine from their great selection to make the meal complete.

With pizza places like this so close by, you’ll have plenty to choose from to celebrate National Pizza Month. Whether you’re dining in, or getting it delivered right to your door at Outlook Golden Ridge, every night of the week is a good night for pizza!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month - The Best Events in Denver

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! To support those afflicted, take a look at these Breast Cancer Awareness events in Denver! There’s always a way to lend your time and talents to these charities that are joining survivors in the fight.

Bright Pink October Outreach

On October 20th, join Bright Pink for their pumpkin carving Outreach. Bright Pink focuses their efforts on prevention. For this event, all you need is a pumpkin, some carving tools, and some goodies to get carving and share with the group. this event will be hosted just a 25-minute drive away from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge!

Pink Tie Affair

If you enjoy getting dressed up, this event for the well-known Susan G. Komen organization is perfect for you. It is a fancy affair that’s perfect for those who enjoy a black tie affair every now and then. You can expect the event to include dinner, drinks, a silent auction, dancing, and casino games. You can also expect to have a great time for a great cause.

Glamour Bar - Pink with a Purpose

All throughout October, Glamour Bar will donate $3 to Sense of Security for every pink Giella custom lipstick or lipgloss sold. Sense of Security works to ensure that breast cancer patients going through treatment have the best quality of life possible. This is the best idea for anyone who wants to participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but is struggling to fit an event, or volunteer hours into his or her busy schedule.

Volunteer

October isn’t the only month you should get involved! If your schedule is tight this month, consider attending an event at a later date by volunteering! Any of these organizations need a lot of help planning these events and ensuring they run smoothly year-after-year. Volunteering is also a great choice for people who are on a tight budget and don’t have extra money to donate at the time.

From breast cancer research, to helping the people who are currently undergoing treatment, there are many fronts that need support in the fight against breast cancer. Take action this October and participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Your Go-To Guide To The Best Cookies in Denver

October isn’t just for Halloween anymore; it’s also National Cookie Month! To help you celebrate, we’ve put together some of the tastiest cookie stops in Denver! Whenever you get a hankering for something sweet, use this as your go-to guide to cure your craving.

Victory Love & Cookies

Victory Love & Cookies has a long list of cookie flavors that will keep you coming back for more! Not only is there a plethora of choices, but they also boast a ton of original flavors. For your first trip, try the Bump + Grind, Honey Sesame, or Mom’s Addiction.

Maggie and Molly’s Bakery

Maggie and Molly’s Bakery uses fresh and quality ingredients for their cookies. It doesn’t hurt that they taste great, too! You can enjoy treats such as the Chocolate Nutella Salted cookie, or seasonal favorites like their Halloween Gingerbread cookies.  

Minnie Beasley’s

Minnie Beasley’s has the “World’s Greatest Cookie.” It also has several great options for ordering online such as cookie tins and cookie bags. This means you can order them right to your door at Outlook Golden Ridge. It also has gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

Gateaux

Gateaux specializes in cakes and pastries, but also offers delicious tea cookies. Not only are they tasty, they’re also vibrant and iced beautifully. Ordering a tray would be perfect for a business meeting or special event.

Santa Fe Cookie Co

This local bakery conducts business a little differently than we’re used to. The owner uses an honor system for collecting payment. Just go in, pick your treats, and put your money in the jar. You can get three cookies for a dollar, which is a great deal. The cookies are made fresh daily and are raved about by anyone who tries them.

Halloween doesn’t have to dominate your sweet tooth this October! With all of the soft and sweet cookie choices surrounding Outlook Golden Ridge you’re sure to be celebrating National Cookie Month in style!

So Many Ways to Say "Thank You!"

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A simple “thank you” gesture can go a long way nowadays. In an age where people are so busy checking their cell phones as they walk to smile or make eye contact with a stranger, it is important to say “thank you” to the people who truly deserve our thanks! Since today is National Thank You Day, we thought we would come up with some creative ways to thank the individuals in your life who we may not thank all that often!

Write A Note 
Whether you wish to write a full-out letter to someone, tuck a post-it note away in their lunch box or briefcase, or want to make a banner for them to come home to, there are many ways you can say thank you in a special note.

Treat Them to Dinner
Maybe one individual you would like to thank is always doing the cooking – so take them out to dinner tonight and give them a break! With so many restaurants in the Golden area, like Windy Saddle Cafe, Indulge Bistro & Wine Bar and Table Mountain Inn, there are plenty of options nearby to treat that person to dinner, drinks, dessert or all three!

Pay It Forward
Perform a random act of kindness today in honor of the people who have been to helpful to you! Pay for the person in line behind you at Starbucks or the drive-thru, pay for someone’s parking, help out a co-worker or let a driver enter your lane!

When In Doubt, Pinterest 
If you have been waiting to put those Pinterest boards to use, this is the perfect day to do so! Try out a new cookie recipe and deliver a batch to your neighbors or friends, look for a cute thank-you gift or saying, or find another fun project!

Just Say It
Whether you say it in English, Greek, Spanish or Sign Language, if you don’t have the time to do any of the above suggestions, the most important thing is to say it! Maybe you don’t typically say thank you to a member of the armed forces, police officer, firefighter or EMT when you pass by one on the street – make today that day!

Who would you like to give a special thank you to today? Share your ideas and gestures with Outlook Golden Ridge on our Facebook and Twitter pages! A HUGE thank you to all of our dedicated followers for your support and involvement!

Labor Day Weekend Events

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As much as we love the Summer weather, the time has come to put away the white pants and sandals, and unpack the sweaters. Although Fall doesn't officially start until September 23, Labor Day weekend has come to signify Summer's send-off. If you are searching for some fun ways to end your Summer, these are some events and ideas in the Denver area this weekend!

Taste of Colorado | Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday
Head Downtown to Civic Center Park at some point this weekend for a Taste of Colorado! Throughout the weekend, more than 500,000 people will enjoy 50 restaurants, 275 vendors, and 6 stages in this end of the summer community celebration! Tomorrow the festivities last from 11:30 A.M. through 10 P.M., Saturday and Sunday from 10: 30 A.M. through 10 P.M., and Monday from 10:30 A.M. through 8 P.M. The trip to Civic Center Park from Outlook Golden Ridge apartment homes is approximately 30 minutes.

Colorado's State Fair | Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday
It's the last weekend of Colorado's State Fair, which began on August 28, and is held in Pueblo. Events over the holiday weekend include America's Got Talent ventriloquist Terry Fator, LEGO sculptures, livestock shows, Demolition Derby, Los Lonely Boys and much more! Visit the fair website to view a complete schedule of events by day.

Colorado Rockies Game | Friday, Saturday, Sunday
The Colorado Rockies take on the World Champion San Francisco Giants at home at Coors Field! Enjoy one of America's favorite past times with friends and family over the weekend. Visit the official Rockies site for more ticket and promotional information.

Unwind in Golden | Every Day
Maybe you would rather spend your long weekend at home at in Golden - and there's nothing wrong with that! Invite some friends over for a barbecue on the patio, talk a scenic stroll along Clear Creek or enjoy a glass of wine at Indulge Bistro & Wine Bar!

What are your holiday weekend plans? Are you staying in town or are you traveling to another city? Share your plans with us on Outlook Golden Ridge's Facebook and Twitter pages! Enjoy your holiday weekend!

Additional sources consulted:
5280 Magazine
Denver.org

Golden's Best Burgers

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As the summer winds down, you're probably getting in as much outdoor grilling time as you can. Chances are that when you think of the best food to have on the grill that a good old-fashioned hamburger comes to mind. If this is true, you will definitely want to fire up the grill tonight in honor of National Burger Day! If you're pressed for time or aren't much of a cook, fear not - there are many restaurants located in Golden that make an amazing burger! These are some of our favorite restaurants to order a burger:

Bob's Atomic Burgers

Bob's Atomic Burgers is probably our favorite place to go for a burger in the area. In fact, Bob's hamburger was recently featured on Denver Westword as #24 in its list of Top 100 Favorite Dishes! So what makes their burgers so delicious? They're just plain good! You can get some extra fixings for free, although they charge for others, but regardless of how you design your burger, it will be amazing! They even offer quinoa burgers for any vegetarians out there! Bob's Atomic Burgers is just 10 minutes away from Outlook Golden Ridge!

Woody's Woodfired Pizza & Watering Hole

Woody's may not have an official website, but maybe they don't need one because the food is just that good! This sports bar is a great atmosphere for watching the game and enjoying good food and beer. If you don't believe us, just take a peek at the restaurant's Yelp reviews!

Urban Backyard

Urban Backyard is another great location for watching the big game! If there isn't a sports event, you will definitely want to sit outdoors or go for happy hour!

Bridgewater Grill

Located inside The Golden Hotel is Bridgewater Grill, which offers more of an upscale dining experience. Choose from locally raised cow, bison, chicken or garden burgers and add a variety of classic toppings like bacon and bleu cheese. The restaurant often hosts live musicians to set the mood, too.

These are only several of Golden's best hamburger venues! If you are willing to take a road trip for an amazing burger, check out Thrillist's list of best burgers in Colorado! Do you have a burger recommendation? Share it with us on Outlook Golden Ridge's Facebook and Twitter pages!

National Golf Month in Golden

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While the month of August signifies many things, including the return of Colorado School of Mines students and the end of summer, one thing you may not have realized about August is that it also celebrates a sport that many consider a relaxing past time - golf! Grab your clubs and play a round at one of these local golf courses while the extra moments of daylight last!

Fossil Trace Golf Club
Since opening in July 2003, Fossil Trace Golf Club has been the subject of many accolades from the golfing community, including Golf Digest's list of "Top 50 Golf Courses in America for Women" and "Top of the Town: Best Golf Course" by 5280 Magazine. The club offers adult clinics, women's only clinics, club fittings and junior camps. As for the name, Fossil Trace, there are actually triceratops footprint fossils that can be seen next to the course's 12th hole! The course also has an exhibit, located inside the clubhouse, which details the course's prehistoric history. Tee times at the course may be booked online. Fossil Trace Golf Club is just a quick 5-minute drive away from your home at Outlook Golden Ridge!

The Club at Rolling Hills
Members at The Club at Rolling Hills may enjoy an 18-hole championship course designed by J. Press Maxwell. In addition to the course, the club also houses a driving range, and putting and chipping green. The club's full service pro-shop includes club cleaning, rental, repair and storage, and members with less experience may take advantage of its group or individual instruction programs. The Club at Rolling Hills is approximately 15-minutes away from Outlook Golden Ridge.

Applewood Golf Course
Also located 15-minutes away, and designed by J. Press Maxwell, is Applewood Golf Course. This par-71 course is known for being "chemical free," in addition to being a challenge for golfers of all levels. The course itself feature hills, wildlife and water hazards. Junior and adult lessons, and yearly memberships are also offered at Applewood. Guests may book a tee time online.

Whether you consider yourself a pro or have never swung a golf club in your life, if you want to brush up on your skills or discover new ones, the venues described above are just a few places in Golden to get started and to celebrate National Golf Month!

Gear up for Golden Fine Arts Fest

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Usually by Thursdays we are quite ready for the weekend, but we are especially excited for the forthcoming weekend, as it will be time for one of our favorite city events - the Golden Fine Arts Festival! This weekend marks the festival's 25th year in Golden! Be sure to leave some free space on your calendars to attend the festival on Saturday, Sunday or both days!

The Golden Fine Arts Festival is held annually in historic downtown Golden. More than 140 artists, craftsmen and vendors will be present, in addition to musical entertainers, food vendors and a children's art area, rides, demonstrations and more! The festival will be adjacent to Clear Creek and is set up to be an open-air event. The festival also functions as a juried show, with more than $1,800 in prizes to award to artists in nine categories: 2D, Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography and Sculpture.

It is estimated that 35,000 visitors will attend the festival throughout the weekend - will you be among them? Here are some details to fill you in on. Admission to the festival is free! How wonderful is that? Also free parking will be available throughout downtown Golden, including the 3-story garage. You will need to have some money on your person if you plan to purchase food and beverages from the vendors, which include wine and beer. The festival will run along 11th Street, between Arapahoe and Maple. Finally, festival hours are from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

According to the forecasts, Saturday looks like the day to be at the festival - with a high of 91 and mostly sunny skies. On Sunday, scattered thunderstorms are currently predicted. If you do go on Sunday, make sure to take your umbrella. One good thing if you attend on Sunday - the festival location is only a 10-minute drive away from Outlook Golden Ridge in case the weather takes a rainy turn!

This weekend's events are a wonderful way to get to know the Golden community, purchase some artwork for your future apartment home at Outlook Golden Ridge, and enjoy local food and entertainment!

Additional sources consulted:
Colorado.com
Colorado Artist Tour

Get to Know Golden: CO School of Mines

"School of Mines" by Luke Jones is licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you are currently considering moving to the Golden area, which we hope you are, we hope to introduce you to some of the city of Golden's area institutions and attractions. Since the month of August has now arrived, many more faces will soon be seen around town. Students of the Colorado School of Mines will soon be arriving back on campus and in-town for the beginning of the Fall 2015 semester!

The Colorado School of Mines was founded in 1874 and concentrates on earth sciences. More specifically, the curriculum at Mines is focused on the use of engineering and applied science to promote responsible use of the earth's resources. The most popular majors on campus include Engineering, Mathematics and Statistics, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, and Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate students attend Mines each academic year. 

Last month, The Department of Energy announced that it would be contributing up to $9 million in funding to Mines to research algae-based biofuels. Currently Mines ranks #38 in U.S. News & World Report's rankings of top public schools, and #88 on the list of the best national universities.

The majority of the Mines campus is located in Downtown Golden, extending from 11th Avenue to 19th Avenue. From the apartment homes at Outlook Golden Ridge, the commute to the Mines campus is only about 5 minutes by car, depending on which area of campus is your final destination. Perhaps some of our future residents will be Mines upperclassmen! 

If you want to explore the campus before the majority of students return for the start of classes on August 25, it is a beautiful campus for a walk! Stroll through Kafadar Commons or visit the Geology Museum. The museum is home to one of Colorado's two moon rocks from the Apollo 17 space mission, and also houses fossils, gemstones, minerals and historic mining artifacts. You can visit the museum Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the Geology Museum is free, so head over and check it out!

Dog Days of Summer

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It is hard to believe that today is the last day of July - time flies! As we enter the "dog days of summer," we wanted to share some activities that you can do alongside your canine companions! Golden is a very dog-friendly town, from restaurants, to attractions, to outdoor activities. Why leave the dog at home if it can join you on your daily or weekend outings?

Restaurants (via Bring Fido)
Golden City Brewery: Beer and man's best friend - what could be more ideal? At Golden City Brewery, pets are welcome to join their owners at its courtyard tables.

Cannonball Creek Brewing: Breweries must love dogs! Dogs are allowed both indoors and outside at Cannonball Creek.

Anthony's Pizza and Pasta: Enjoy a slice outdoors - dogs are allowed out on the patio!

Mountain Toad Brewing: Great brews and great company - dogs are permitted on Mountain Toad's patio!

Attractions (via Visit Golden)
KONG Company Field Trip: KONG has been manufacturing rubber chew toys for years, and understands that your dogs need variety (or else they'll chew your shoes). The company produces a wide range of products and different dogs need different types of toys. For example, an active dog requires a different toy than a constant chewer. Take a trip there to find your dog's ideal style!

Spaw Day at The Green Paw: For many people, pets aren't just animals, but part of the family. As we would our children, we love to spoil our pets, too. Treat your pet to a "spaw" day at The Green Paw! Voted "Best of the Best Grooming 2014," uses "natural, nourishing and environmentally responsible products" to bathe and groom to perfection.

Outdoors (via Visit Golden)
Jog on City Trails: If you have an active dog, going for a run on any of Golden's paved or mountain trails will be a fun workout for both dog and owner! Did you know the City of Golden has 24 miles of trails?

Puppy Playtime at the Park: Golden has two city dog parks where your dog can socialize, play and make new friends! Tony Grampass Memorial Sports Complex's dog park allows pets to run and roam off-leash. Just remember to keep your dog leashed until you are within the dog park, and to bring a towel in case the grounds are damp. If you have a smaller dog, Homer's Run Dog Park is probably better suited for you.

Once completed, Outlook Golden Ridge will also be very dog-friendly. Our community will have its own "paw spa" where you can rinse off your dog after a day at the park! We will also have our own "bark park" on-site! We want your pets to feel right at home, too! Until then, take your dog on a field trip to any of the above-mentioned locations for a day of excitement!

Cheesman Park Art Fest

Image courtesy Pixabay

One fabulous aspect of living in Golden is easy access to the city of Denver while coming home to a quiet suburb. If you enjoy driving into Denver for weekend events, this weekend, view works of art from around the nation at Denver's historic Cheesman Park.  If you are in search of something to do that involves arts and the outdoors, look no further - this weekend the park will host the 3rd Annual Cheesman Park Art Festival! Art, food and fun converge into one location on July 25 and 26.

More than 100 juried artists and merchants from throughout the country will converge upon Capital Hill's, and our neighborhood's own, Cheesman Park this weekend for the festival. Guests will encounter any and all types of art imaginable, including pottery, jewelry, glass art, paintings and more. The two-day, outdoor show will take place along the park's tree-lined greenscape, off of 8th Ave. Hours for the festival are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. 

Complementing the artistic atmosphere will be local musicians, food trucks, demonstrations and kid's activities. Participating food trucks include: El Toro the Tot, Tacos La Tapatia, Deer Creek Pizza, Cilantro Truck and more. Visitors are encouraged to take public transportation, walk, or bike to the event. However, since you will likely be traveling by car to the event, parking will be available along 8th Ave. The drive from your future home at Outlook Golden Ridge to Cheesman Park is only 30 minutes! What's even better? This event is free to attend! 

One important (non) factor is the weather - the forecast looks mostly sunny for the weekend with temperatures in upper 80s! Walk over to the festival, cool off with some ice cream, and take a look at the works of art! If you wanted to make a day out of the event, pack up a picnic basket or blanket to lay out and enjoy the scenery before or after the festival. Sounds like a pretty perfect day trip, doesn't it?

It's close to home, it's free and it's fun - what else could you want from a local event? Visit the park this weekend and enjoy all that Cheesman Park Art Fest has to offer!

Saddle Up for Buffalo Bill Days

Image courtesy Pixabay

One of the coolest aspects of living in Golden is its history. Can you believe we live in what used to actually be the "wild west" and that Buffalo Bill is buried here? Regardless of whether you're new in town or have lived here for years, you have surely heard of the huge celebration that is "Buffalo Bill Days." Buffalo Bill Days, Golden's largest summer celebration, begins next week, running from July 22 through 26!

The History
The festival commemorates the rides taken by the Buffalo Bill Saddle Club to visit Buffalo Bill's grave on Lookout Mountain in the 1940s. In the 1960s, this was expanded to draw tourists into Downtown Golden, and included arts, crafts and other vendors. Today, the Buffalo Bill Parade symbolizes the journey to Buffalo Bill's grave and back down the mountain into Golden.

Events
Live music, golf, the aforementioned parade, mutton busting and more are what can be expected from this year's festival. The festival will begin on Wednesday, July 22 with a 1:30 p.m. golf tournament at Applewood Golf Course.

On Thursday, July 24, there will be a live entertainment from 5 to 10 p.m. at Parfet Park. Thursday's artists are Noisy Neighbor (5-6:30 p.m.) and Chris Daniels and the Kings (7-10 p.m.).

Saturday, July 25 is the big parade day! The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. along Washington Ave. between 10th and 13th Streets. Parade participants include classic cars, floats, horses and more! Be sure to arrive early to grab a good location! Cody's Wild West, a 90-minute Wild West performance, begins at 12:30 p.m. on the west end of the Lions Ball Field. From noon to 10 p.m., more live music can be enjoyed at Parfet Park.

Come back on Sunday to see the Classic Car Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Muttin Bustin at 10 a.m. at the Lions Ball Fields, and live concerts from 2-5 p.m. at the park!

Relive some of our town's history and get to know some fellow Golden community members! Downtown Golden is only a 10-minute drive away from your future home at Outlook Golden Ridge!

Additional sources consulted:
Visit Golden

Best Area Ice Cream

Image courtesy Pixabay

Whether you prefer gelato, frozen custard or ice cream, there is no better time to indulge in a sweet treat like an ice cream cone than during the month of July! Why now? Not just because July is in the middle of the summer, but because July is National Ice Cream month! In fact, National Ice Cream Day is July 19, so make sure you take advantage of the excuse to eat this creamy dessert to your heart's content. Make sure you add these area ice cream shoppes to your ice cream tasting tour:

Scrumptious
Voted Best Ice Cream Shop in Denver last year, Scrumptious not only serves quality ice cream, but also candy and bottled sodas. What sets Scrumptious apart is its dedication to "all good" ice cream, meaning their ice cream is homemade to satisfy your tastebuds using as many all natural ingredients as possible. Scrumptious has two locations, one in Arvada and one in Longmont.

Sweet Cow
With locations in Boulder, Denver and Louisville, Sweet Cow serves fresh small batch ice cream made with local ingredients. Sweet Cow offers 9 "staple" flavors, including Super Delicious Vanilla, Mint Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Cookie, Ozo Coffee, Cookies and Cream, Butter Pecan, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Dutch Chocolate and Strawberry. Eleven other seasonal flavors are included in the flavor selection. Sweet Cow also crafts sundaes, milkshakes and cakes, too.

Sweet Action
Sweet Action is the ice cream shoppe where both vegans and nonvegans can enjoy a delicious dessert of ice cream or sorbet. Vegan flavors include Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Pomegranate Sorbet and Raspberry Lime Sorbet. Denver Westword has described Sweet Action as "Best Ice Cream for the Milk-Averse." Regular ice cream flavors include Stranahan's Whiskey Brickle, Molasses and Colorado Margarita. You can visit Sweet Action along Broadway Street in Denver.

Golden Sweets
Don't worry, we didn't forget hometown favorite Golden Sweets! Golden Sweet's old-fashioned ice cream parlor will fill you with nostalgia, even if you didn't grow up here. From malts to milkshakes to sodas and sundaes, you can get practically any sweet treat you desire here. Golden Sweets is located along Washington Ave.

Hungry yet? On a night where you just want to sit outdoors and enjoy the summertime weather, take a drive to one of these local ice cream shoppes and feel like a kid again! Each of these locations is within a 25-minute drive of your future home at Outlook Golden Ridge!

Additional sources consulted:
Eater Denver
Thrillist

Red, White and Golden!

Image courtesy Pixabay

Tomorrow, our country celebrates its 239th birthday! While the city of Golden may be a small one, it is going all out to celebrate the holiday - from the First Friday Street Fair to the 2015 Lions Club July 4th Festival! Enjoy the extra day off by spending time with friends, family, and fellow Golden community members.

First Friday Street Fair
Today, July 3, marks the annual First Friday Street Fair. The "First Fridays" will run the first Friday of every month through September. The event takes place on Washington Avenue, between 12th and 13th Streets, with the festivities running from 5 PM through 8 PM. Guests will enjoy food, vendors, live music and more! This event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday weekend!

2015 Lions Club July 4th Festival
The annual July 4th Festival will take place at Lions Park on 10th Street, starting at noon on Saturday. Activities throughout the day include live music from The Johnny O. Band, Chuck Hughes and The New Classic Band, food, rides and face painting. The festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to the celebration, too.

This exciting community event is free to attend, however raffle tickets will be on sale to help defray the costs of the event's production. Raffle winners will be announced throughout the day, leading up to the grand prize winners' announcement shortly before the fireworks display.

Guests are also asked to bring any worn American flags they may have to donate to the Gettysburg Flag Company. This company recycles old flags and sends the stars to military troops to carry in their pockets.

Both of these holiday events are  just a 10 minute drive from your new apartment home at Outlook Golden Ridge! Even if you would like to have a cookout first, this still leaves plenty of time to join the community later on in the day, or in time for the fireworks!

What are your big weekend plans? Whether it's trying a new barbecue recipe, lounging by the pool or attending these events, we want to know! Share your plans with us on Outlook Golden Ridge's Facebook and Twitter pages! Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Sources consulted:
City of Golden
Visit Golden
The Denver Post