The fifth-largest city in the Denver metro area, this suburb to the west of the city has one of the best views of the Rocky Mountain foothills and is easily reached by light rail service from Union Station. Lakewood's downtown Belmar area, complete with shops, restaurants, a movie theater and pedestrian-friendly spots, has emerged as a local hangout that attracts visitors from surrounding areas.

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Lakewood also features extensive cultural programming and recreation areas. The 38,000-square-foot Lakewood Cultural Center boasts a more than 300-seat theater and gallery space, while the Lakewood Heritage Center includes 15 historic structures and more than 40,000 artifacts, plus a popular outdoor amphitheater. Recently named a Certified Colorado Creative District, 40 West Arts along the West Colfax Corridor in the heart of Lakewood has more than 20 public art installations, multiple performing arts venues and a dozen galleries.