Welcome to Lyons
Picturesque, scenic, friendly, Main Street America
Less than twenty miles north of downtown Boulder lies the quiet and picture-perfect community of Lyons, Colorado. This small town boasts a large heart and a unique variety of businesses, 97% of which are independently owned and operated. Opportunities for outdoor recreation are endless, with the Rocky Mountains just west of town. A charming Main Street, tight-knit community, and abundant support for local businesses have made Lyons one of Colorado’s most-adored places to call home.
First inhabited by the Ute people in the 17th century, the region was home to several large Native American tribes. The Colorado gold rush attracted a high number of settlers and the town of Lyons was eventually founded in 1880. Growth continued through the end of the 19th century with the addition of a school and church. In modern times, Lyons features a high number of historic landmarks standing in perfect unison with the several newer establishments of the 21st century, only adding to the community’s already-endless charm and coziness.
What to Love
- Nearly all the businesses in town are locally owned and operated
- Lyons is perfectly situated at the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains, making it an outdoorsman’s paradise
- Main Street is Main Street America™ accredited, an award given to communities with vibrant and bustling downtown neighborhoods
- Lyons public schools are highly-rated and adored by the townspeople
Local Lifestyle
Days out of the office are usually spent enjoying the fresh air at one of Lyons’ many parks or hiking trails. The St. Vrain River is known for fishing, and LaVern Johnson Park opens up for ice skating in the winter when the lake freezes over. In the warmer months of the year, both locals and visitors alike can be found floating down the North St. Vrain Creek on an intertube. The pathway is a mile and a half long and is free of charge. Main Street is also a popular place to gather, shop, and enjoy time with friends and family.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
A staggering 97% of Lyons’ businesses are locally owned and operated. This, coupled with their Main Street America™ accredited downtown, makes Lyons one perfect place to gather and make memories to last a lifetime.
The best way to start off the day would be at Barking Dog Cafe, right on Lyons’ famous Main Street. Open seven days a week at 6:30 AM, it’s the perfect pre-hike pick-me-up or post-bike ride reward spot. Their all-day breakfast consists of bagels, croissants, breakfast burritos, and fresh-baked pastries.
A favorite spot for the south-of-the-border fare is found at La Mariposa. La Mariposa has been in business for 30 years and is famous for its 20-inch burrito, and extensive margarita list featuring over 50 different flavors. If tequila isn’t your cup of tea, a vast lineup of in-house brews can be found at Oskar Blues. Since 2002, Oskar Blues has been brewing craft beer in Lyons and has since expanded operations to provide the greater United States with their product. Their year-round favorites and seasonal creations pair well with their menu of warm burgers, soups, pizza, and more.
Dozens of unique shops and boutiques line Main Street, providing residents with clothing, jewelry, home decor, and perfect gifts. One well-loved destination is Redstone Cyclery, an essential for this town and its several nearby biking paths. Starting in 2003 as an in-home business, Redstone has grown tremendously and is now a worldwide top 20 Turner dealer. They sell both pre-loved and custom-made bikes, in addition to offering servicing and repairs to keep you on the trail.
Things To Do
The small-town charm and quaint atmosphere of Lyons come from the loving community. Throughout the year, residents are invited to get together at one of the many festivals and events held in town, like the Old Man Winter Bike Rally & Run. Participants can choose from either a 50 or 100 km bike course or the 10 km run across some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery every February. Another highly-anticipated gathering is the Lyons Holiday Artisan Market. The annual holiday bazaar features a wide line-up of crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery, glass, and more, all perfect gift-giving ideas.
Schools
Lyons is home to some of the best schools anywhere. Local schools consist of:
- Lyons Elementary School, preschool-5th grade; LES consistently ranks as one of the best elementary schools in the state with test scores far above the Colorado average.
- Lyons Middle/Senior High School, grades 6-12; this campus boasts the highest test scores in the state and is a winner of the John Irwin School of Excellence Award.
