Cripple Creek, CO?
 

I'm looking into a extended weekend trip to get out of the NW and see something different(and a short flight). Been to Deadwood SD several years ago and loved the small western town and 'lil casinos...Cripple Creek, CO at least appears similar- I could be wrong.
Best hotel? Must sees and local must dos? Other suggestions?
Thanks for your help!
:)L

I would recommend the Blackhawk/Central City area just West of Denver. The quality of casinos and accommodations is substantially higher and just as affordable. The scenery and sidetrip options are much more desirable. We live in the south suburbs of Denver and don't normally stay in the hotels as it is an easy day trip but we would not hesitate to stay at any of those that we've walked through. Just go on-line and find one in your price range. If you rent a car, you'll love the drive in and around the surrounding towns, including Boulder and Estes Park. Keep us informed as you take a closer look. Enjoy.

Cripple Creek was fun and very similar to Deadwood. Deadwood might be a little more developed.

As you drive to Cripple Creek you drive near Pikes Peak.

We learned about Cripple Creek when we were visiting Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument which is only 15 miles away.

Utahtea

Thanks for the tip about Blackhawk/Central City.

We love road trips and driving tours- so it would be great to rent a Jeep and sight see (and gambling!). We probably won't be going til April so I have time to get this all figured out.
:)L

The train tour was fun

My father was born in Cripple Creek in 1888. It was once one of the largest cities between St. Louis and San Francisco--the Marx Brother were from there. I thought it was fascinating...obviously. However, Colorado has many other 19th Century cities of interest.

I have been to Deadwood and find Cripple Creek more intriguing, even without the family connection. Check it out; you won't be sorry.

My Mom and Dad went to Cripple Creek last year, and my mom has not talked about anything else since then. They've been to Deadwood and other similar towns with gambling, but they loved Cripple Creek the best. I'll pump them for information on the town and get back to ya!