Explore an Ex-Coal Mining Town: Lafayette, CO

Fantastic Italian fare in a casual atmosphere makes this restaurant great for anything from a date to a meal with young children. I recommend the gnocci.

Check their menu here .

This local chain has excellent thin crust, Neapolitan style pizza. Their small pizzas are perfect for one person, or a larger one can feed a few. My recommendation is the Pontiff Pie, which features an olive oil sauce, spinach and feta cheese.

Check their menu here .

Efrain’s is generally considered to offer the best Mexican food in the area. I’m not entirely sure how vegetarian-friendly this place is, but I think there is an option or two.

Sushi Mara serves up some of the best sushi in the region.

Check out this review by fellow Guidespotter fcarman: Quality Sushi on the Frontrange

Perfect for that weekend morning treat or special occasion dessert, Indulge Bakery serves up fantastic fresh pastries, hand decorated cakes, mouthwatering pies and sumptuous gelato treats.

In the back of Cannon Mine, there’s a little used book corner. It’s really more book-trade style than book purchasing, but nice if you’re looking for something to read with your drink.

Cino’s has great lattes, comfortable couches and rows and rows of magazines for purchase. Mostly a coffee-to-go location, go for their quick service and friendly baristas.

Peak to Peak is a K-12 charter school, with the high school receiving local and national renown for its superb quality of education.

Though suffering from a lack of feeder schools, Centaurus High School gave both my sister and I an excellent education. There is a superb pre-engineering program, which includes college credit courses, and an IB (International Baccalaureate) program on top of its wide range of AP (Advanced Placement) courses and many clubs and sports teams.

Regionally popular for its excellent live music events, Nissi’s serves fantastic tapas and offers a sizable wine and beer list.

In addition to its musical education programs for students of all ages, the RMCMA hosts performances by live music groups throughout the year.

An 18 hole Hale Irwin designed course, Indian Peaks Golf Course presents a challenging game. Holes range from the short, relatively easy par three of the 5th hole to the difficult uphill battle of the par five of the 17th hole. There is also a large driving range and nice clubhouse, complete with a pro shop and restaurant.

For rates and reservations, visit their website here .

A look into Lafayette’s past is possible at the Miner’s Museum . Moving beyond mining history, the museum also covers other aspects of the town as it existed in the late 19th century.

This exploratory museum is designed for young children, with imaginative play areas and exhibits displaying varied scientific principles.

The Bob L. Burger Recreation Center has ample facilities for exercise and fun, including a gym, indoor swimming pool complete with a water slide and a play area for young children as well as outdoor fields for other sports.

The two-story library has all the literary amenities of a library, along with some modern additions. There is a Homework Center for students looking for help with their schoolwork, a computer lab for adults and a small cafe and art gallery, filled with locally produced arts and crafts available for purchase.