Lyons

Lyons is a peaceful, down-to-earth community just inside the red-sandstone foothills at the confluence of the North St. Vrain and South St. Vrain creeks. Founded in 1881, it's crammed with historic buildings—there are 15 structures listed in the National Register of Historic Places—and the whole downtown area has the feel of a turn-of-the-century frontier outpost. The cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and antiques stores serve more than just the small population of 1,600. Visitors also come for the recreation opportunities and top-notch music festivals.