WELCOME TO Littleton!
We’re excited to share our incredible community with you. If you are looking for a charming, historic community, whether for a weekend or a lifetime, Littleton is the perfect spot. Just 10 miles south of Denver, set against a spectacular mountain backdrop, we are home to a diverse collection of shopping boutiques, gourmet restaurants, friendly craft breweries, local distilleries and wineries, and much more.
With a collection of festivals and events, there is always something exciting happening in Littleton. And with 43 parks and endless trail systems that connect them all, we’re the ideal base camp for Rocky Mountain fun in any season.
This guide highlights some of the exciting ways to enjoy our town, as well as important information about getting here and making the most of your stay.
From all of us at Visit Littleton, we hope you have a wonderful time in our little piece of authentic Colorado, the Visit Littleton Team
LittletonUp Close
From festivals and farms to food and fun, there is always something exciting going on in Littleton.
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
Calendar of Events
When it comes to scheduled events, Littleton has something for everyone in every season. Below are some of our special highlights this year. For a complete calendar of current events, including details on dates, schedules, tickets, and other information, visit our website at VisitLittleton.org and then come out to enjoy the very best of Littleton with us.
THE BLOCK PARTY Mid-June
This isn’t your average street fair! Find nearly 100 vendors with food, drink, gifts, art, and more. Plus, enjoy a curated lineup of live performers who defy gravity, logic, and the ordinary, as well as four different stages for live music. And cap the evening off with fireworks. Attendance is FREE.
CENTRAL BANK’S ILLUMINATE LITTLETON,
PRESENTED BY THE DIAMOND RESERVE July 2026
New! In celebration of America’s 250th and Colorado’s 150th anniversaries, Main Street will transform into an open-air experience with interactive art installations, roaming musical performances, and extended outdoor dining from local restaurants and bars.
The evening culminates in a spectacular anniversary drone show. Attendance is FREE.
OUTDOOR SUMMER CONCERTS
Ongoing through Summer Season
On about any summer night in Littleton, you’ll find an outdoor concert happening somewhere.
From the lush lawn of the Littleton Museum to the backyard of the Breckenridge Brewery Farm House to the BarBox at Aspen Grove, summer evenings are the best place to hang out and cap another perfect day in Littleton.
SCAN FOR ALL EVENTS
98TH ANNUAL WESTERN WELCOME WEEK
Kicks off 2nd Friday in August
Western Welcome Week is an annual 10-day celebration with more than 30 events.
From concerts in the park to a pancake breakfast, a craft artisan fair, and a traditional parade with more than 100 entries, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
FALL FESTIVITIES
Late September through October
Fall in Littleton means fun for the whole family—from the annual Harvest Fest to the Goblin Giveout downtown trick-or-treat event.
Visit a pumpkin patch, take a ghost tour, or get spooked at the Haunted Mansion.
CANDLELIGHT WALK Friday after Thanksgiving
An annual Littleton tradition, the Candlelight Walk and parade signal the start of our holiday season.
Main Street transforms into a picture-perfect holiday postcard with roaming entertainment, twinkling lights, a sparkling parade, a magical drone show, and of course, a visit from our special guest, Santa himself!
Curated Finds.Timeless Style.
When you are craving a little retail therapy— whether you’re looking for an outfit, a gift, a spa treatment or a signature piece of jewelry—your perfect treasure awaits.
Explore the charming streets of historic Downtown Littleton to discover artisan jewelry, home décor, unique gifts, stylish clothing, bookstores, and gourmet treats you won’t find anywhere else.
Main Street serves as the cultural hub of the city, where streets lined with remodeled turn-of-thecentury buildings are perfect for an indulgent day or a short stroll before your dinner reservation.
Hot spots include Ruby Jane , for contemporary women’s fashion and jewelry; the Diamond Reserve, an appointment-only store specializing in locally designed diamond jewelry; Lollygag for vintage finds, upcycled décor, and handmade goods from local female artists; Spell Books for the latest best seller and regular author events; and General Store 45 , a nostalgic step back in time, to find kitchen goods, candy, and classic Colorado gifts.
Beyond Main Street, Aspen Grove offers up a different vibrant retail setting. The modern, openair shopping center blends popular national retailers with local boutiques, offering both trusted favorites and unexpected finds. Retailers like The Apple Store and Williams Sonoma are interspersed with independently owned stores and a variety of restaurants, including Curate Mercantile, Apothecary Fairy, and Chicken Salad Chick , along with the Pam Grier Cinema in honor of the Hollywood actress.
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
And the always-favorite seasonal farmer’s markets are the perfect place to savor delicacies from local farms or pick up the fresh-grown ingredients for a picnic in an area park.
FUEL UP FOR YOUR SHOPPING EXCURSION WITH
Coffee from Dirt Coffee
Tea from In-Tea
A scone from Hearth Bakery
And a
For information on street fairs, block parties, farmer’s markets, and other seasonal celebrations, go to VisitLittleton.org
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
savory quiche from Born 2 Bake
Take to the Trails
With miles of paved greenway trails and easy access to riverside paths, Littleton offers ideal cycling opportunities for cyclists of every level.
HIT THE TRAIL
The area’s signature Mary Carter Greenway Trail is a wide, paved path that winds along the cottonwood-lined banks of the South Platte River with easy access to a variety of Littleton hot spots, including the free Hudson Gardens , where you can stroll through gorgeous manicured public gardens. The trail is also part of a larger regional system featuring hundreds of miles of paved and gravel pathways that are also popular with joggers, dog walkers, and people out for a refreshing stroll.
If you’re up for a longer ride, explore the High Line Canal Trail, a meandering 71-mile trail that stretches from the foothills almost to the airport. Head southwest on the trail toward Chatfield State Park, where the trail opens dramatically as you approach Chatfield Reservoir. Overlooks offer stunning views of the lake framed by foothills and endless Colorado sky—perfect for a photoworthy rest stop.
REFUEL AND REFRESH
You can dine your way through Littleton by bike for an entire day, from early breakfast to evening fun, all along the Mary Carter Greenway, which easily connects many of Littleton’s celebrated establishments. For breakfast or a quick recharge, drop your kickstand at Toast or Nixon’s for coffees, smoothies, and small bites.
IF YOU GO:
Bring Layers
Colorado weather can shift quickly, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Hydrate Often
Even moderate rides can feel more intense at altitude.
Plan Your Route
The trail system is extensive, and mapping apps can help you string together river paths, canal trails, and neighborhood connectors.
Respect Shared Paths
Most trails are multiuse, so signal when passing and keep speeds reasonable.
Lunch spots abound and can easily turn into happy hour or dinner spots to while away the rest of the day in a beer garden or on a rooftop deck, where you can enjoy a cold beverage and a lawn chair.
Beer lovers should check out local favorite Breckenridge Brewery right along the South Platte River, where the spacious outdoor venue includes lawn games, a welcoming vibe, and incredible mountain views along with a wide assortment of craft brews. Other local favorites include Carboy Winery , The Platte River Bar & Grill, and the Colorado Pinball Pub .
Out on the Town
From globally inspired cuisine to laid-back gathering spots with live music, we’ve got something cooking for every taste, budget, and occasion, all served up fresh with friendly local charm.
When the sun sets, the culinary character of Littleton heats up, with a bustling dining and nightlife scene that is as richly diverse as it is totally craveable. Our award-winning restaurants highlight flavors for every palate, from authentic Mexican and contemporary American bistros to
Thai, Japanese, Cajun, and more. Try the sushi at Makizushico , VinaMeals for fresh Vietnamese or Angelo’s Taverna (next door to Carboy Winery ) for fresh Italian. So, whether you’re after a gourmet burger (the Cherry Cricket is a Colorado classic) or looking to gather around a multi-course fondue table at the famous Melting Pot , you’re sure to find something to get your mouth watering.
As evening sets in, the nightlife scene comes alive, with intimate venues ideal for both casual evenings and special occasions. Local cocktail lounges and
Erik Dean, @dean_maschine
Photo Courtesy of Rocker Spirits
SCAN FOR MORE INFO
TASTY TIDBITS:
Dive into a plate of tamales at Palenque.
Cheers the day with an award-winning margarita at Cencalli.
Order up the surf and turf at Manning’s Steaks & Spirits.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Little Man Ice Cream.
Order the Big Night Out fondue experience at The Melting Pot.
Grab groceries to create your own eclectic dinner at the Fresh Market and Community Kitchen.
brewpubs provide the backbone of our vibrant nightlife. Craft breweries abound, including Breckenridge Brewery, Locavore Beer Works, and our very own Littleton Brewing. Carboy Winery and Rocker Spirits distillery both offer tastings. Looking for a cozy spot to gather? Check out Kate’s Wine Bar or The Lazy Greyhound. Venues often spill out onto the sidewalk, or rise above the street to rooftop patios with spectacular mountain views.
For a twist on the everyday bar scene, reserve a table at PlayForge, a local gaming store where you can enjoy a variety of board games, or hit Outlanes or the Colorado Pinball Pub for an incredible collection of contemporary and vintage pinball machines. Or get your wheels spinning at Skate City for classic roller rink fun. On weekends and during the summer, you’ll often find live music, trivia nights, and a variety of seasonal events as well.
Wherever you go, Littleton boasts a casual, approachable vibe, where the attire is typically as laid back as the locals serving you. Rideshare services are easy to use and frequent our downtown for convenient transportation.
Step into Littleton’s Historic Charm
Take a journey through Colorado history in Littleton, where blacksmiths still hammer on anvils, Main Street is lined with grand architecture, and neighborhoods teem with lovingly restored homes dating to the days of buggies and butter churns.
HISTORY COMES TO LIFE
Littleton has its origins in the Colorado Gold Rush, developing into a thriving agricultural hub, and later becoming one of Colorado’s most cherished small cities, with well-preserved historic charm that shines amid a thriving modern vibe.
The Downtown Historic District boasts dozens of historic buildings in striking styles, including the iconic Italianate/Renaissance Revival facade of Town Hall Arts Center. Boutique galleries and cozy restaurants abound in former theaters, liveries, and saloons. Downtown is bookended by two architectural gems: the 1907 Mission Revival-style courthouse, and the 1917 Beaux-Arts-style Carnegie Library, now home to The Melting Pot fondue restaurant. Downtown side streets and nearby historic districts are worthy of a visit to see marvelously preserved Craftsman and Victorian-style homes. Historic walking tours are available in the summer months.
Nowhere is history more alive than the free Littleton Museum, home to two fully functional living history farms where costumed interpreters portray life in early Littleton. Set on 40 acres adjacent to Ketring Lake a few minutes from downtown, the Smithsonian-affiliated museum serves as a living bridge between Littleton’s early days and the present.
On the 1860s farm, visitors experience pioneer life before the railroads and telegraph, demonstrated
in an authentic log cabin, early schoolhouse, and earthen root cellar. On the adjacent 1890s farm, visitors see the advances brought by Colorado’s economic and technological growth just before the turn of the 20th century.
Littleton has carefully grown from a small, rural, agricultural community since before Colorado was the 38th state, into one of Denver Metro’s most charming small cities.
The museum features a menagerie of livestock, including sheep, cows, chickens, pigs, donkeys, turkeys, and more. Real live blacksmiths pound out iron creations on a roaring coal forge. Interpreters demonstrate a wide variety of pioneer skills, from cooking over open fires to captivating handicrafts.
The museum’s indoor galleries feature a dazzling array of artifacts, photos, and narratives spanning Littleton’s history, while two rotating galleries host nationally recognized exhibits and art shows.
But Littleton’s historic offerings don’t stop in the horse-and-buggy era. Littleton Boulevard is lined with dozens of Modernist-era buildings in a stretch dubbed the Mid-Mod Mile for its plethora of Mad Men-style buildings.
From the flamboyant Googie-style jutting roof beams of Taco House to striking International-style facades, the corridor is home to a variety of “hidden gem” shops and restaurants in a unique setting.
Colorado’s history is at your fingertips in Littleton! Find inspiration and education through tours, events, and more at VisitLittleton.org
Arts Alive!
From public galleries and music and theater productions to outdoor sculpture installations, murals, and seasonal local exhibits, the arts are thriving in this cultural corner of Colorado.
Curious visitors can discover art around every corner in Littleton! Want to stretch your legs a bit? Take a self-guided walking tour and explore the many examples of vibrant mural art and sculpture throughout the downtown district and area parks created by talented local artists. Scan the QR code for the digital interactive guide.
Continue your self-guided tour through Hudson Gardens . With over 30 acres, you can enjoy the seven different garden areas and 21 unique art sculptures.
For a more casual outing, wander the area galleries for original art for sale on exhibition, including the historic Depot Art Gallery or ROX Arts Gallery Discover the variety of acclaimed free exhibits at the Littleton Museum . Or take the kids to paint class at artSPARK Creative Studio .
Catch a show. Wander a gallery. Explore the plethora of street art and murals. Groove to some local music. The art scene is thriving in Littleton.
In the evening, catch a professionally produced live show at the Town Hall Arts Center , the city’s historic town hall, which has been converted into a theater venue serving as a cornerstone of the local arts culture for decades, producing plays, musicals, and comedies that draw audiences from across the region.
If music is more your style, get swept away by the sounds of the Littleton Symphony , now in its 43rd season. And throughout the year, live music is on stage at a variety of local venues and special outdoor events. In the summer months, you can find outdoor concerts hosted at the Littleton Museum, Aspen Grove, Breckridge Brewery, and city parks. For a smaller music venue, check out The Alley or Fraco’s Bar .
For a full list of arts and culture venues and seasonal special events, go to VisitLittleton.org
photo credit: Rachel Graham
Putting Down Roots
Littleton offers a compelling blend of small-town charm, outdoor beauty, and modern convenience, making it an exceptional place to live and work.
Beyond the scenic setting and strong sense of community, Littleton is a thriving Denver suburb offering an outstanding school system, strong business climate, award-winning medical services, and easy access to area destinations—from downtown Denver and the Denver Tech Center to the alpine adventure of the Rocky Mountains.
With a population of approximately 45,000, the town retains its small-town charm while providing highend business resources for sectors like professional services, health care, science, technology, and retail.
The SouthPark Business District is a major local hub for employers with nearly 500 acres of mixeduse commercial and residential development, providing office, light industrial, and research facilities. And access to the RTD Light Rail system allows for easy commuting into downtown Denver, making it a practical choice for those working (and playing) in the city.
Littleton is also a leading Front Range destination for medical care. AdventHealth Littleton has served the community for decades as a fullservice hospital offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, cardiovascular treatment, cancer care, orthopedics, neurology, and maternity services. In addition, Littleton is surrounded by a network of primary care providers, urgent care clinics, and specialty practices throughout the south Denver metro area.
With so many local services and strong community infrastructure, combined with safe neighborhoods, diverse housing options, and a high overall quality of life, Littleton offers a well-rounded environment to call home for both living and working. From awardwinning public schools and health care services to a thriving business climate, Littleton is the perfect place to call home.
Education is another anchor strength for the community. Littleton Public Schools are known for academic excellence, further enhancing the city’s appeal for families, while the Arapahoe Community College campus offers associate and bachelor’s degrees, immediately adjacent to downtown.
Photo Courtesy of AdventHealth Littleton
The Perfect Place to Gather
Whether you are looking to tie the knot or plan your next corporate outing, Littleton brings equal parts small-city charm, authentic venues, and easy-to-access convenience to your next group gathering.
WEDDING
Littleton is a picture-perfect place to say “I do.” Discover charming historic venues and scenic outdoor spaces (like Hudson Gardens and Ashley Ridge ) or the big ceremony and intimate private dining rooms ideal for rehearsal dinners and welcome parties. Here you will find a variety of incredible settings to match your vision for the perfect day and size of party.
Before the ceremony, wander the boutiques of Downtown Littleton for bridal wear, jewelry, and perfect wedding party gifts. Or escape for a luxurious day at one of our local spas. Hit some of our celebrated local links for an afternoon of golf. Get the group together for a game at one of Denver’s pro sports venues. And gather to toast the lucky couple at one of our many local bars and restaurants.
Photo credit: The Diamond Reserve
Photo Courtesy of Five Well Being Spa
GROUP GATHERINGS
From vibrant venues and intimate receptions to memorable reunions, find the perfect space for your next group gathering in Littleton. Need a corporate facility? Our local hotels can host your group with a variety of meeting spaces that can accommodate groups up to approximately 175 people. And when the meetings are over, head out to experience Littleton’s nostalgic charm with activities to enjoy—from spas to golf. And enjoy a whole host of great dining venues to accommodate your group, offering everything you need to create the perfect event.
Check out VisitLittleton.org to help plan your amazing group gathering.
Photo Courtesy of Hudson Gardens
Photo courtesy of Shift Workspace
Planning Your Visit
Littleton is easy to get to and even easier to get around. From Light Rail stations to ride sharing services, a walkable downtown area, and plenty of free parking, we encourage visitors to enjoy our town responsibly.
GETTING AROUND
WHERE TO STAY:
Following are recommended lodging options for your visit:
Courtyard by Marriott
3056 W. County Line Road, Littleton, CO 80129
Hampton Inn & Suites
7611 Shaffer Parkway, Littleton, CO 80127
Residence Inn by Marriott 3090 W. County Line Road, Littleton, CO 80129
Staybridge Suites 8211 Southpark Circle, Littleton, CO 80120
Littleton is perfectly situated a short distance from downtown Denver and Denver International Airport as well as key area attractions, with easy access to the I-70 mountain corridor as well, making Littleton the idea base camp for exploring Colorado’s Front Range.
Here are some distances to key destinations:
Denver International Airport: 33 miles
Downtown Denver: 10 miles
Red Rocks Amphitheater: 15 miles
Fiddler’s Green live music venue: 9 miles
Ball Arena (Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, concerts): 10 miles
Empower Field (Denver Broncos): 10 miles
Denver Tech Center: 7 miles
Summit County/Winter Park ski areas: 70 miles
For area maps and information on transportation services, go to VisitLittleton.org
LITTLETON’S HISTORICAL MILESTONES
20,000 BC: Prehistoric big-game hunters use the valley of the South Platte River for hunting and camping.
1862: Richard Sullivan Little, an engineer from Grafton, New Hampshire, files for a homestead.
1888: Littleton Independent newspaper (originally called the Littleton Gazette) is founded.
1890: Littleton officially incorporates with 245 residents.
1903: Electricity switched on for Littleton residents.
Early 1900s: Railroad expansion turns Littleton into a transportation hub with frequent passenger and freight service.
Pre–World War II: The local economy remains largely agricultural, with the town being the central hub to support area farming families.
1920: Town Hall on Main Street opens.
1929: First Western Welcome Week (then called “Homecoming”) is held.
Post–World War II: Littleton experiences rapid transformation from a rural, agricultural town to a small city, driven by new manufacturing industries like electronics and aerospace.
1959: Town reorganizes as the City of Littleton with a city manager form of government.
1960: Professional fire department replaces volunteers.
1965: Arapahoe Community College is established.
1970: The 71-mile-long High Line Canal Trail opens to recreational use.
1975: Chatfield Dam is completed to provide flood control to the area.
1983: The former Town Hall on Main Street reopens as Town Hall Arts Center and hosts its first performance.
1990: The city celebrates its centennial anniversary with a population of 33,661.
2000: RTD Light Rail service connects Littleton to downtown Denver.
2001: Aspen Grove shopping center opens.
2015: Littleton celebrates its 125th anniversary, with a population exceeding 45,000.
LITTLETON, COLORADO, IS THE PERFECT PLACE
for a day or a lifetime, with an ideal location, a strong sense of community, and an endless number of things to do in every season! Get inspired with the ideas in this free magazine, or visit our website for more information on how to make your Littleton experience truly memorable.
