Lafayette, Colorado

Condé Nast Traveler may have deemed Lafayette one of the best small-town day trips from Denver, but it’s also worth a permanent move. It’s blossoming from its rural origins, with scenic views of the Rocky Mountains. Just 35 minutes north of Denver and 25 minutes east of Boulder, it also sits at a prime corner location between two of Colorado’s most popular cities.

The downtown area is colorful and quaint, featuring a number of coffee shops, boutiques, and small craft breweries. There’s also a strong arts community, with museums, alleyways of artwork, and art galleries in Old Town Lafayette. Kids will love WOW! Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits and events inspire “play-based learning.”

In true Colorado fashion, Lafayette is also big on the outdoors. It has a number of greenbelts, bikeways, and parks worth exploring, as well as walking trails for wandering. The Waneka Lake Trail is a 1.3-mile fitness loop offering tranquil views, while the 27-mile Coal Creek Trail offers a more adventurous experience. 

With quality schools and 22 above-average nursing homes within a 50-mile radius, Lafayette can appeal to the young and the elderly alike. It’s also easy to get around, with many places within walking distance and bus stops for those that aren’t.