RV Rental Lakewood, CO

Explore Lakewood, Colorado, in an RVshare RV Rental

Lakewood was not incorporated until 1969, after a long process. The process required the unification of multiple neighborhoods that spent years as separate identities. These neighborhoods had a strong sense of individuality that developed over time without a central government. Each one had spent decades establishing schools, laying pipelines, and securing other improvements without outside help. This individuality made the process of unification extremely difficult at times.

In 1889, William Loveland established one of the first of these neighborhoods and called it Lakewood. Loveland was the owner of the Colorado Central Railroad and placed his community near Harlan Street and West Colfax Avenue. This area united in ranching, raising turkeys, and operating dairies. Over time, this agricultural aspect of unity gave way to a more neighborhood sense of pride in unity. 

During the 1960s, residents of the area that would become Lakewood began to fear annexation to Denver and were also concerned about a lack of resources, especially the shortage of law enforcement. Lack of resources and a desire to remain independent from Denver caused the residents, over 90,000 at the time, to consider incorporation. Finally, Alameda, Green Mountain, Bear Creek, Applewood, and Lakewood neighborhoods voted in 1969 to create a unified city.

Today, Lakewood has a population of over 156,000, with a strong sense of community. Lakewood has over 300 restaurants for your dining pleasure, including locally-owned businesses. While in town, you will also want to check out the various city parks, including Bear Creek Lake Park, William Hayden Green Mountain Park, and Kendrick Lake Park. Other Lakewood attractions include Colorado Mills, Green Mountain Beer Company, and Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park.

Events in and Near Lakewood, Colorado

• Great American Beer Festival - This event is the largest beer festival in the country. It takes place every year in October at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver.

• Cider Days – Every October, this festival celebrates the area's agricultural history. You can enjoy live music, vintage tractors, family activities, and yummy treats.

• Dia De Los Muertos Festival – The first Saturday in November is reserved for this festival. The Denver Botanic Gardens celebrates the Day of the Dead with altars, entertainment, food, programs, and other events.

• Oldtoberfest – With a pretzel-making station, beer on tap, and live music, Lakewood celebrates Oktoberfest in Old 121 style every October.