GOLDEN. This is one of metro Denver's most popular attractions ­ with good reason ­ so saddle up the SUV and get yourself to Golden. In 1917, with some 20,000 mourners in attendance, Buffalo Bill was laid to rest atop Lookout Mountain, where he'd have a permanent view of his beloved mountains and plains. His longtime friend Johnny Baker started the museum a few years later, and today it houses some pretty fascinating stuff ­ photos and memorabilia from the Wild West Show years, Native American artifacts, period firearms and equipment, and interactive kid's exhibits. Giddyup!

GOLDEN TRIANGLE. Dating to 1883, the grand old Byers-Evans House was originally built for newspaper executive Williams Byers. Six years later, it was sold to William Evans, an executive with the Denver Tramway Company and son of a former governor. Today, the home offers lovely architecture, period furnishings, and a film narrating the home's history and its notable owners. Throughout the year, a variety of special events is sponsored, including James Joyce poetry readings and live musical performances. Guided tours available Tuesday through Sunday.

DOWNTOWN. The awe-inspiring Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception was reportedly Denver's first Catholic church. Distinguished by two limestone-and-granite towers, the beautiful Gothic structure features impressive architectural elements and ornate appointments. Inside, a Carrara marble altar and bishop's chair add majesty, as does sacred statuary. Seventy-five stained glass windows, imported from Munich, illuminate the church. Multiple mass services are held daily.

CAPITOL HILL. Even if you're not politically minded, you'll enjoy visiting Colorado's capitol building, which was designed to resemble Washington, DC's. Notable architectural elements include a gold-plated dome that rises 180 feet, carved statues that grace the west entrance, and vibrant stained glass windows. Be sure to search out the hand-painted renderings of US presidents inside. Outside, you can view memorials dedicated to patriots who have served the country and the state. Guided tours available.

MORRISON. Part of the Morrison Formation, a vast belt of land rich in fossils that stretches from New Mexico all the way north to Canada, this site first became famous during the fossil rush of the 1870s-1880s. A 1.25 mile trail winds its way along a ridge and signs are posted to help you interpret what you see, which includes dino fossils as well as trackways. More detailed guides and souvenirs are available at the Visitor Center. #13;#10;Apatosaurus, Stegosaurus and Diplodocus are just a few of the animals first found here.