Quick Info
Character: Preserved Victorian mining town. Main streets: 6th Street and Rose Street. Walkable: Yes, compact historic core. Elevation: 8,530 feet. Best for: History buffs, photographers, casual strolling.
Georgetown earned its nickname "Silver Queen of the Rockies" during the mining boom of the 1870s-1890s. Today it's one of Colorado's best-preserved Victorian towns, with over 200 historic buildings concentrated in a walkable downtown that feels transported from another era.
Unlike purpose-built tourist towns, Georgetown is authentic—a real community that happened to survive with its architecture intact. The shops, restaurants, and museums occupy buildings that served miners and merchants a century ago.
Main Street District
6th Street: The commercial heart of Georgetown. Victorian storefronts house antique shops, galleries, restaurants, and local businesses. The scale is intimate—two blocks of concentrated charm.
Rose Street: Runs parallel with additional shops and the route to Guanella Pass. The Hotel & Bakery stands as a local landmark.
Architecture: Notice the ornate facades, pressed tin ceilings, and original brickwork. Many buildings retain period details that newer "historic" towns can only imitate.
Shopping & Galleries
Georgetown's shops lean toward antiques, art, and mountain merchandise. The selection is curated rather than sprawling—quality over quantity.
Antiques: Several shops specialize in mining artifacts, Victoriana, and mountain collectibles. Prices vary; patient hunters find treasures.
Art galleries: Local and regional artists display mountain landscapes, wildlife photography, and Colorado themes.
Gifts and gear: Souvenirs, outdoor equipment, and local crafts round out the offerings.
Dining
Lucha Cantina: Mexican with mountain views. Popular for lunch and dinner, especially the patio in summer.
The Happy Cooker: Breakfast and lunch spot known for creative dishes. Weekend waits are common.
Coohill's: Fine dining option for the area. Reservations recommended.
Georgetown Valley Candy Company: Old-fashioned candy shop with homemade fudge and treats.
Museums & History
Hamill House Museum
Ornate Victorian mansion of silver magnate William Hamill. Guided tours reveal period furnishings and the lifestyle of Georgetown's elite. See our full guide.
Hotel de Paris Museum
Restored 1875 hotel that once hosted mining moguls and dignitaries. Tours explore the building's history and founder Louis Dupuy's remarkable story.
Georgetown Heritage Center
Local history museum with mining artifacts, photographs, and community stories. Good starting point for understanding the town.
Walking Tours
Self-guided walking tours cover the historic district. Maps are available at the Heritage Center and local shops. Key stops include:
- Grace Episcopal Church (1869)
- Star Hook and Ladder Firehouse
- Maxwell House
- Fish Block commercial building
Tips
Visit weekdays for fewer crowds. Summer weekends and fall color season bring tour buses and traffic.
Park and walk. The historic district is compact. Find parking near the loop railroad or on side streets and explore on foot.
Combine with the train. The Georgetown Loop Railroad complements a downtown visit perfectly.
Christmas Market is magical. The annual Georgetown Christmas Market (early December) transforms downtown with lights, vendors, and European-style holiday atmosphere.
Allow 2-3 hours. Enough time to browse shops, eat lunch, and absorb the atmosphere without rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Georgetown worth stopping for?
Absolutely. It's one of Colorado's most authentic historic towns and takes minimal time to explore. Perfect as a lunch stop or half-day destination from Denver.
How long should I spend downtown?
2-3 hours covers the main attractions. Add time for the Georgetown Loop Railroad or museum tours.
Is it crowded?
Summer weekends and fall color season can be busy. Weekdays and off-season offer more peaceful exploration.
Is it accessible?
Mostly. Streets and sidewalks are generally flat. Some historic buildings have limited accessibility. The terrain is easier than many mountain towns.
What's the Christmas Market?
Annual European-style holiday market on the first two weekends of December. Vendors, lights, mulled wine, and festive atmosphere. Very popular—expect crowds.