It has been a Colorado rite of passage for decades. Turn 21, then head to Golden for a guided tour of the Coors brewery and, most importantly, the three free beers that come with it. But that changed ...

Where Civil War generals once raised glasses, Golden’s buildings now house craft beer. Today, geologists brew in Victorian mansions, and 165-year-old saloons keep Colorado’s brewing heritage alive.

From biking to kayaking, this little town just minutes from Denver offers a world of outdoor adventure. Here are the top things to do in Golden.