Playing Tourist for the Day

During Spring break a few weeks back, it occurred to me that I had been living in Golden for two years and had yet to really see any of it. So having nothing to do for a few hours I decided to play tourist for the day; or at least till Bob came back from his 40mile bike ride(such an over achiever. So armed with my new camera (and leaving my wallet at home to avoid temptation) I bravely ventured in to town.

First Stop: The Rewind Consignment Shop

During the week I park right across the street from this place and have fought with myself many times about going in or not. I have to tell you, I really wish I had gone in that first time. This shop is one of Golden’s hidden gems.  It’s located at the corner of 13^TH and Arapaho street, across from the church. The store owner’s name is Kerry and she’s been in business since 2009. She has a great personality and is very easy to talk to. You can tell how much she loves what she does.

Rewind was voted Best of Westword 2011. They carry a wide range of good quality items from furniture to clothing and accessories, purses and other various around the house items. This place is great because there are always new items coming in. You never know what you are going to find, so visit often. I went back a few days later and scooped up a pair of blue open toe flats for just $12 and LOVE them. :)

If you're interested in selling something, go talk with Kerry. Once the item passes inspection you both agree on a price and profit is split 50/50. Not a bad deal. I’m thinking of taking in some dresses that have been sitting in my closet for the last few years. This is definitely worth checking out!

1224 Arapaho Street, Golden, CO

Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm

Sunday 12pm-4pm

303-279-6052

Web Site: http://www.rewindconsignments.com/

Stop Two: The Astor House Museum

I recommend going to see the Astor House if you have not done so yet. It’s especially great for children and the young at heart because of the interactive activities on the first floor. A word of warning, do watch your step. The floors tend to be a bit uneven because of its age.

The upstairs is also quite dark except for the main room which is very lovely.

When you walk in the house, on the right is the admissions desk and gift shop. Ticket price is $3 and $5 for access to the other museums in Golden. To the left of the stairs is the living room where the self guided tour begins. Find the brown speaker box, hit the button, and your visit will start.

A bit of history on the Astor House:

In 1867, just eight years after Golden City was established, the Astor house was opened up by a man named Seth Lake to serve the travelers of the territory. He especially sought the business of law makers who just happened to meet next door in the Loveland building. Then after Denver became Colorado’s new territory capital in 1868 (Some say by a fixed vote) the Astor house was turned in to a boarding house that relied more on the average person. 

In 1866 Seth Lake pasted away and the Astor house changed hands several times. In 1892 Ida Goetze or, Mother Goetze, modernized the building with both water and gas pumped in. Her family was the longest owner of The Astor House.

In 1972 local residents formed the Golden Landmarks Association and lead a community effort to save the house from becoming six parking spaces. With a winning vote Golden City then bough up the land and the Astor house was saved and made in to the museum it is today.

One of the more memorial stories for me was when the balconies were banned in Golden City because drunken men would spit from them. One night a young man went up to the balcony after drinking and fell to the street after opening the door and stepping out. Lucky for him nothing was hurt but his pride. This is just one of the many stories that are sure to make you chuckle.

822 12^th Street, Golden, CO

Summer Season

May1-Oct 31

Tuesday-Sat 10am-4:30pm

Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Also open by appointment

303-278-3557

Web Site: http://www.goldenhistory.org/visit/ahm/

The Final Stop: Chelsea of London

This is another store that I wish I had gone in to sooner. Not only do they carry Claire Pettiebone, Hanky Panky and other awesome and hard to find brands but they’re much more affordable than other shops! The owner of the shop name is Judy and she’s been in business for over 15 years now. I have to tell you, she’s one awesome lady. We ended up talking for almost an hour. I found out that her shop used to be a bank back when Golden was territorial capitol. She also told me one of the other buildings did some renovations and uncovered an old ad that was painted on some brick. Apparently the shop has left it exposed for the customers to enjoy. I plan on going back when I find some free time and get some pictures of that as well.

Judy’s store carries more than just lingerie. She carries a couple of high end clothing lines( one of the dresses were to die for), jewelry, trinkets and perfume. She offers free bra fittings, private party events and bridal showers. The store carries sizes 32A- 46G and the average price is $100 for a bra. If you’re looking for a deal she always carries a clearance section of high quality items.Stop in some time to say hello. 

1203 Washington Avenue, Golden CO

Monday- Friday 10am-6pm

Saturday 10am-5pm

Sunday 12:30pm-5pm

303-271-9565

 Web Site: http://www.chelseaoflondon.com/