A Golden Destination for Travelers and Locals

By Jay McKinney

Given the close proximity to Rocky Mountain getaways and the city life of Denver, Golden is an appropriately named town that locals and tourists can easily fall in love with.

Starting June 1, The Eddy Taproom & Hotel will open up as a hip destination for both Golden residents and those passing through.

Located along the banks of Clear Creek on the old site of the Golden Fire Brick Company, this 49-room boutique hotel will be much more than a place to stop and get a room. The Eddy will have two dining concepts overseen by veteran Chef Ben Shapiro, two rooftop decks with stunning views and it is also walking distance to other attractions in the city.

The Eddie Taproom will serve eight craft beers on tap that will pair nicely with one of the menu’s hearty meals packed with local ingredients. Outside of the building, Truck Eddy, the property’s food truck, will be serving barbeque and shakes that guests can enjoy on the outdoor lawn, nearby picnic tables or in the comfort of their hotel room. If you’ve seen Truck Eddy in Golden or Denver, that’s because they’ve already been touring the area and serving up amazing food.

“I’m excited to bring a fun, approachable but, most importantly, delicious menu of exciting food options to our guests,” Chef Shapiro says. “So far, the reaction to Truck Eddy has been great, which has helped us refine our menu even more. I can’t wait to build on that concept and introduce a new unique experience at the Taproom.” Shapiro has more than 10 years of culinary experience, serving as the executive chef at El Camino Community Tavern, Steuben’s Arvada and Masterpiece Kitchen.

While Chef Shapiro’s culinary creations will surely keep people coming back, the hotel is a unique experience in itself that pays homage to the rich mining history associated with the town of Golden. General Manager John Drugan describes the hotel’s interior design details by Studio R as a mixture of contemporary and vintage with an industrial skin that references the past.

“As you explore the hotel, it’s evident that every element was selected with an intent to pay homage to Golden, its history and the western, outdoor lifestyle the town is known for,” Drugan says.

Small details like the original bricks from the old brickyard in the hotel entrance, as well as the guest room desks that are reminiscent of old mining carts, tease your imagination into traveling back in time to the days of the Gold Rush.

The dining options, historical décor and lively culture in Golden will help The Eddy Taproom & Hotel stand out. Whether passing through on the way to (or from) the mountains, or seeking a romantic getaway at the hotel, be sure to check it out this summer.

- Jay McKinney is a Colorado native who recently graduated from Metro State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. He loves spending time outdoors, playing golf and hiking.