23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Cripple Creek (CO)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Cripple Creek, CO?

Cripple Creek, which lies in Teller County at the bottom of Pikes Peak in the state of Colorado, United States, is a gorgeous mining town.

Cripple Creek had a population of 1,155, according to the United States 2020 census. Cripple Creek, formerly a gold mining camp, is encompassed by magnificent mountains and remarkable views.

This town has many casinos and other mind-blowing attractions, attracting visitors and locals worldwide.

Cripple Creek features Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, Cripple Creek, Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, Butte Theater Performance, Johnny Nolon’s Casino, and more.

Are you planning to visit Cripple Creek? Check out the best things to do in Cripple Creek, CO.

Things to Do in Cripple Creek, CO

1. Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine

One of the top things to do in Cripple Creek, CO, is to stop at Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a historic site founded in 1891.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, the only United States gold mine with a vertical shaft, falls 1000 feet into the side of the mountain.

You will see uncovered gold veins in their natural state. There are tour guides to educate you about the Cripple Creek Gold Camp’s history.

The tours offered last for exactly sixty minutes. Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine visitors learn about the modern gold mining of hard rock, with exhibits showing various gold mining methods.

At the site’s gift shop, you can purchase tickets for tours. Reservations are available for large groups of at least twenty-five people.

Address: 9388 CO-67, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

2. Old Homestead House Museum

Old Homestead House Museum, formerly known as a brothel in Cripple Creek, is the only surviving ancient brothel house on the popular Meyers’ Avenue.

The House was established in 1896, during the era of the gold rush in the state. It was successfully converted into a historic site in 1958.

The interior and exterior sections of the building were nicely restored to regain their lost glory with an extensive collection of artifacts.

The Old Homestead House Museum showcases photographs that show visitors what the property was like back in the day.

Guided tours are available to everyone interested in listening to tales relating to the lifestyle of their elite clientele and working girls.

The Old Homestead House Museum, open from June to October, offers tours every day of the week from 11 am to 5 pm.

Address: 353 Myers Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

3. Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad go through the middle of an isolated mining camp and Cripple Creek.

The Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Cripple Creek is an ancient 2-foot track active from mid-May to mid-October.

An enlightening audio narration takes visitors on a fantastic ride back to the ancient gold mining era of the region.

The route travels across a collection of historical mines, train depots, an old trestle, photography sites, and other essential points.

 Address: 520 E Carr Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

4. Cripple Creek Donkey Herd

During the early period of the gold rush epoch, Donkeys were a significant section of the mining industry. The Cripple Creek Donkey Herd features immediate offspring of the donkeys who only made journeys up the mountain and otherwise.

Commonly, miners set free their donkeys whenever they were going to vacate the region, which led to the roaming of donkeys today throughout the gold camp.

A donkey derby is organized annually in June to celebrate the donkeys’ role in the community, which involves partakers directing donkeys to an obstacle course to finish.

Although it highly depends on when you visit the city, from May to October, you will sight numerous donkeys around town.

Cripple Creek Donkey Herd is operated through donations. Visitors are allowed to feed the donkeys and take cool pictures.

Address: Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

5. Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum

 A perfect addition to your list of top things to do in Cripple Creek, CO, is a visit to the Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, a place filled with immense history.

Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum educates visitors about the history of bothersome criminals and the force men assigned to check them.

Going back to the era of the gold rush days, Cripple Creek’s population excessively grew from just fifteen to over fifty thousand within a decade.

Most cells are still in good condition, and visitors see firsthand where famed outlaws such as Robert Curry served their jail time.

Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum features an extensive collection of exhibits, including newspaper clippings and old police logs.

The former jailhouse is home to the Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, with numerous exhibits and displays.

Address: 136 W Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

6. Butte Theater Performance

Butte Theater Performance, which has existed for over a century, is a great entertainment hub you must visit, especially if you’re wondering what to do in Cripple Creek, CO.

Butte Theater Performance has undergone a series of renovations that transformed it into what it is today. It has a seating capacity of 184.

The Theatre, housed in a historic building, hosts numerous community performances and events.

Butte Theater Performance is operated by a non-profit organization known as the Butte Theater Board and hosts events funded by this board. The Theater also hosts events by the community theatre group and the Thin Air Theatre Company.

Butte Theater Performance is in partnership with Victor schools & Cripple Creek to create more awareness of cultural youth activities.

Address: 139 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

7. Dynamite Dick’s Dining Emporium

Are you hungry and clueless about the best restaurant in town? Visiting Dynamite Dick’s Dining Emporium is one of the best things to do in Cripple Creek, CO.

Dynamite Dick’s Dining Emporium is the best choice whenever you feel like relaxing or simply enjoying a meal.

The Emporium offers a lovely and vibrant atmosphere for visitors to feel comfortable and at home while they feast on their meals.

The restaurant offers a menu featuring breakfast meals, including steak, appetizers, sandwiches, soups, burgers, desserts, salads, and entrees.

Dynamite Dick’s Dining Emporium offers ample parking space, and informal is the dress code; make sure you visit with your family.

The staff and owners are considered highly hospitable people concerned about their customers’ farewells.

Address: 256 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

8. 9494: Gifts with Altitude

9494: Gifts with Altitude is a lovely store that offers a wide variety of handmade jewelry from different parts of the world.

They offer silver jewelry made from antiqued silver, rhodium, and Sterling silver, including gemstones, minerals, beads, and crystals.

Throughout history, copper has been reported to have some remedial quality, although it has not been proven.

9494: Gifts with Altitude thrive on collecting minerals and rocks to create beautiful pieces that showcase the stones’ natural charm.

Each stone has its healing value, as it is believed that copper salts mixed with skin oils are said to relieve rheumatism, arthritis, and more.

Address: 367 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

Also, check out our list of things to do in Cortez, things to do in Telluride, and cool things to do in Buena Vista, if you are planning a Colorado road trip.

9. Bronco Billy’s Casino

Bronco Billy’s Casino is a popular destination that attracts thousands of locals and visitors who want to have a great time in Cripple Creek.

The Casino was voted by Colorado Springs as the Best Casino, being home to three different casinos such as Buffalo’s, Billy’s, and Bronco Billy’s.

Each Casino features video poker, cash draws, and state-of-the-art technology, including slot machines.

You can also play table games like craps, poker, and blackjack. Bronco Billy’s Hotel is a great place to spend the night or even more, offering high comfort and peace.

Bronco Billy’s Casino features a private event center available for rentals with five restaurants where you can enjoy a meal at anyone of your choosing.

Ensure you make reservations before visiting, especially for live music performance nights, steakhouse, and complimentary cocktails.

Address: 233 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

10. Historical Tour of the Gold Camp

If you want to explore the gold camp, a Historical Tour of the Gold Camp carried out via a Cripple Creek Trolley is your best bet. This tour is among the fun things to do in Cripple Creek, CO.

Historical Tour of the Gold Camp lasts 1 hour & forty minutes. It is usually from June to Labor Day weekend on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month.

Visitors are offered a closer look into the area’s history with the manifestations of crucial historical figures.

You cannot leave Cripple Creek without exploring its Gold Camp; ensure you join the Historical Tour of the Gold Camp.

Address: Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

11. The Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation

Cripple Creek offers visitors an amazing experience through its collection of casinos, historic sites, and fun attractions.

The Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation is a significant destination that was established by the town for everyone to explore.

The attraction is popular for workouts, fitness classes, and other classes. There are many recreational activities, such as skating and hiking.

Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation’s main aim is to provide an economical, social, and personal environment that is conducive to everyone.

Don’t hesitate to check out all the amenities and facilities available, and visit the website for any upcoming events.

Address: 128 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

12. Wildwood Casino

Wildwood Casino has the vastest one-level casino floor. It is the only Vegas-style Casino in Cripple Creek, making it a great place to visit.

The Casino features over five hundred slot machines with table games and video pokers such as roulette, craps, and blackjack.

The Club Cards of Players are free, allowing guests to receive bonuses and qualifying them for promotions and giveaways by the Casino.

There are two dining regions where guests can enjoy a wide variety of sumptuous meals and drinks in a gorgeous environment.

Wildwood Casino features a hotel with comfortable and beautifully designed rooms, with a complimentary shuttle service available for everyone.

Address: 119 N Fifth St, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

13. Johnny Nolon’s Casino

Johnny Nolon’s Casino, founded in 1991, provides an old western ambiance for people to come together and have fun.

The Casino is home to over two hundred and fifty slot machines and video poker, including table games for guests.

The Casino was named in honor of Johnny Nolon, the original pioneer of Johnny Nolon Saloon & Gambling Emporium.

Johnny wasn’t concerned about mining works; he was a man with an active business mind who understood that the city needed a premier saloon and gambling center.

Johnny Nolon’s Casino also features an onsite restaurant that offers desserts, salads, chicken, burgers, pasta, pancakes, sandwiches, French toast, and more.

Address: 301 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

14. The Cripple Creek Mt Pisgah Cemetery

The Cripple Creek Mt Pisgah Cemetery is a historic resting ground that offers burial and funeral services.

Many individuals who visit the cemetery view the ancient headstones and also see the resting place of popular persons, including Pearl DeVere.

You can have information relating to the various burial & funeral policies, plot records, burial records, and other necessary details.

The Cripple Creek Mt Pisgah Cemetery connects you to the region’s past in a serene environment.

In 1903, twenty-one members of the Cripple Creek Elks, a group created in 1895, had lost their lives, so a part of the cemetery was acquired for them. The section was fenced with a gate, iron, and tall monuments erected as last respect to the lost souls.

Visit and pay your respects.

Address: 997 Teller County Rd 1, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

15. Creations Everlasting Boutique & Tea Room

This destination, a unique combination of a tea room and boutique, is one of the best places to visit in Cripple Creek, CO.

Creations Everlasting Boutique & Tea Room offers visitors a diverse selection of modern and stylish clothing for women.

Beautiful collectibles, handbags, shoes, vintage jewelry, and more are sourced from Los Angeles and New York designers.

They offer NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB apparel for reasonable costs with top quality. The tea room provides a private and peaceful environment for guests to enjoy various flavorful teas.

Creations Everlasting Boutique & Tea Room serves tea 24/7, including herbal, green, and black teas, which are also offered for sale with cozies, teapots, and more.

They also offer a free Wi-Fi network in the tea room, excellent for numerous parties, Christmas tea events, family reunions, and more.

The facility is open on Wednesday & Thursday from 9 am-6 pm, Friday & Saturday from 9 am-7 pm, and Sunday from 9 am-5 pm.

Address: 410 Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

Considering an Colorado road trip, check out our guides on things to do in Westminster , things to do in Greeley, and things to do in Crested Butte for a memorable trip.

16. Cripple Creek Candy & Variety

Cripple Creek Candy & Variety is among the best places to visit in Cripple Creek, CO, especially for sweet lovers, offering them a fantastic treat experience.

The store offers a wide range of handcrafted sweets which are flavorful and a must-try for everyone in the town.

An extensive collection of handmade candies and chocolates, including gift baskets, is available for purchase.

Cripple Creek Candy & Variety is the best for homemade fudge and beverages and renders the best services.

Address: 325 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

17. Cripple Creek District Museum

The Cripple Creek District Museum has been dedicated to preserving the history of the city right from 1953.

This Museum features five historic buildings packed with many educational exhibits. Four of the five furnished residences and two lodgings within illustrate the way of life during the Victorian era.

You can also explore the heritage wooden cabin, which offers an intriguing view of a miner’s life during the era of the gold rush.

The Museum consists of the Midland Terminal District Museum dating back to 1895 and the historical structure that formerly featured Colorado Trading and Transfer.

Cripple Creek District Museum showcases mineral exhibits, photographs, Indian artifacts, and more at the gallery.

You can also buy souvenirs from the gift shop, featuring a wide variety of items, including artwork by local talents.

Address: 510 Bennett Dr, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

18. Rocky Mountain Canary General Store

If you’re searching for a place that offers almost everything you need, Rocky Mountain Canary General Store is the right destination.

Rocky Mountain Canary General Store offers hats, coats, t-shirts, blouses, and scarves, showcasing the style of Cripple Creek.

You can purchase beautiful souvenirs and gifts, including sculptures, gold pans, candles, minerals, gems, jewelry, figurines, and more.

There are fascinating books that talk about ghost stories and the history of Cripple Creek. Rocky Mountain Canary General Store also offers flavorful ice cream, fudge, and gift cards.

As a general store, Rocky Mountain Canary General Store ensures its customers get everything they need and more.

Address: 246 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

19. The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum

This Museum is a historic site founded as a tribute to one of America’s most celebrated broadcasters.

The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum is housed in a two-story building formerly used as a hardware store dating back to 1899.

The two-story Museum is packed with various pioneering and local mining artifacts that shed more light on Victor’s story.

Visitors can watch specified videos about the works and life of the journalist.

The Museum also talks about the beginning of the gold mining era and offers a 60-minute gold panning segment. You will also find a gift shop that is open to everyone.

 Address: 202 Victor Ave, Victor, CO 80860, United States

20. The Brass Ass

Visit the Brass Ass in Cripple Creek if you’re a history and casino games fan.

The Brass Ass features a donkey statue made of brass, reported to hold a significant amount of history from hundred years ago, including its building.

This historical building, known as one of the region’s oldest sites, features casino games that offer guests thrills and excitement.

Explore all the casino games available here, with a nickel collection of slots and video games that can’t be found elsewhere.

Don’t worry about accommodation, as a resort just a few blocks away from the casinos offers guests an extensive collection of stylish and comfortable rooms.

Visit the restaurants nearby for some excellent treats.

Address: 264 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

21. Colorado Grande Casino

One of the fun things to do in Cripple Creek, CO, with your family and friends is to visit Colorado Grande Casino. It is found in the ancient Fairly-Lampman structure.

Colorado Grande Casino is popular because its intimate environment offers visitors a suitable atmosphere for fun.

There is a wide array of ancient and modern games, such as table games, dollar reel slots, and video poker.

Above the Casino, you will find seven hotel rooms. A complimentary breakfast is also offered to the guests, although chosen casino visitors might be offered a free stay.

Colorado Grande Casino features a restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including sandwiches, coffee, pastries, and more.

Colorado Grande Casino offers visitors everything from fun to food to comfort whenever they stop by or lodge.

Address: 300 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

22. Cripple Creek Heritage Center

Cripple Creek Heritage Center is the latest establishment of the Pikes Peak Country Attractions Association. It’s a must-visit for every visitor, especially if you don’t know what to do in Cripple Creek, CO.

Cripple Creek Heritage Center is the home to all information concerning Cripple Creek. Before you set out for an exploration of the town, visit this Center and discover what you can do and more.

Cripple Creek Heritage Center, covering 11,600-square-foot, is designed in a unique style inspired by the town’s history.

There are numerous interactive exhibits consisting of hands-on technology, including video and audio, which allows you to sink into the Largest Gold Camp in the world.

The Pike Peak Visitors Center showcases exhibits promoting the region’s flora, fauna, geology, and recreational opportunities

The Center houses exhibits relating to the Business of Mining, Colorado’s Wildlife, Regional Recreation, Early Explorers, American Indians, the First Residents of Cripple Creek, etc.

Address: 9283 S, CO-67, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

23. Ralf’s Break Room

Dining at Ralf’s Break Room is a must-visit in Cripple Creek, especially with your family and friends.

Ralf’s Break Room is an upscale American restaurant popular for offering delicious American meals in the city.

They are known for using fresh and quality ingredients in preparing the meals, ensuring they are served fresh and tasty.

The food menu features chicken wings, cheese pizza, mini corn dogs, tacos, chicken tenders, char-broiled cheeseburgers, cheese fries, and more.

Ralf’s Break Room is usually vibrant and energetic, with exciting karaoke nights and live music performances.

A full-time bar offers various drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Ralf’s Break Room is accessible from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am-7 pm.

Address: 411 E Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, United States

Check out more cities in Colorado, here is  a guide on things to do in Lakewood, things to do in Loveland, and fun things to do Castle Rock in for a fun time

Plan Your Trip to Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is a lovely town with many features that makes it stand out from other cities in the state.

History lovers, gamers, food lovers, nightlife fans, shopping enthusiasts, and other tourists would appreciate this city.

Start planning your trip to Cripple Creek.