The downtown area’s rustic early 1900s buildings along Main and Front streets house pubs, thrift stores, boutiques and eateries with a family-friendly vibe, like the occasional ice cream parlor or sandwich shop. During summer Saturdays, a farmer’s market takes place on Front and Walnut streets from 9-1; in addition to fresh produce, meats and baked goods, vendors tout such specialty items as chiles, Colorado wildflowers and homemade tamales.
Summer evenings bring the Downtown Street Faire, which runs from 5 to 10. Music, food, arts and crafts displays, fun activities for the kids, and a beer and wine garden are all part of the agenda at this free event. And there’s a strong sense of community during winter, too, as the WinterSkate—an old-time ice skating rink—swings into action with the onset of the holidays, when traditional tunes entertain those gliding across the ice.
Louisville holds allure for the outdoor enthusiast, with Estes Park—the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park—just over an hour’s drive and the ski resorts of Summit County about 2 hours away. Coal Creek Golf Course, 585 W. Dillon Rd., offers 18 holes along with spectacular views of the Rockies; phone (303) 666-7888. Cyclists like to follow Coal Creek Trail, a diverse 7-mile trek extending from the golf course to Lafayette that travels through open spaces, cottonwood groves, ranch land and neighborhoods. The area is blessed with an abundance of biking and hiking trails, with most routes originating in nearby Boulder.
Visitor Centers
Louisville Chamber of Commerce 901 Main St. Louisville, CO 80027. Phone:(303)666-5747