1. Underground Mining Museum
503 Forest Service Rd. #9
Only-in-Colorado tours are led by retired miners at this dynamited- from-rock, completely underground site, where you’ll learn all about blasting, blacksmithing, assaying, mucking, and stoping.
2. Creede Repertory Theater (two locations)
Main Stage Theater, 124 N. Main St.; Ruth Humphreys Brown Theater, 120 S. Main St.
This gem of a rep theater, founded in 1966 by a group of students from the University of Kansas and nationally recognized today, produces seven to 10 diverse plays in rotation, as well as musical events and concerts, in two locations.
3. Lovering Thompson Gallery
111 N. Main St.
Stop in at this charming gallery, which features original paintings (and prints) of nature by Jan Thompson and silver jewelry made by her husband, John.
4. Quiller Gallery
110 N. Main St.
This gallery, around for almost 50 years, features paintings by the owner, Stephen Quiller, as well as pottery, sculpture, and more by other Colorado artists.
5. Ooh La Spa
289 S. Main St.
Need to relax between your hike and the theater? Stop in for a Swedish massage, hotstone therapy, facials, or any number of other treatments.
6. Windsock Acres
113 W. 5th St.
You’ll have three charming cabins to choose from, each cuter than the next, and all with top-quality linens and Ranch Organics toiletries.
7. Antlers Riverside Restaurant
26222 Hwy. 149
Stop in for breakfast or dinner at this sweet spot overlooking the Rio Grande, part of Antlers Lodge, which offers cabins and a motel.
8. Silver Thread Scenic Byway
Want to get out of town and see the sights? Make sure to stop at Freemon’s Guest Ranch (39284 Hwy. 149) for a burger, and visit the artisans, from potters to natural fiber artists, at the Studios at Bristol. (39354 Hwy. 149). kathykillop.com (Studios)
9. Bachelor Loop
904 S. Main St.
This 17-mile driving tour takes you past some of the best-preserved mining sites in Colorado. But fair warning: The drive is steep and narrow, and the U.S. Forest Service recommends a high-clearance car. Guidebooks available at the Creede Visitor Center.
