Omayra Acevedo, Golden.  To a lot of people, nothing says the old west like the name William F. Cody. Most popularly known as Buffalo Bill. This past weekend, I attended the last of the three days during the Buffalo Bill Days celebration in Downtown Golden. Classic cars, live music, artisan booths and even an old west parade, and yes, even the man of the hour made an appearance – or so I heard.

The event dates back to the mid-twentieth century, where the community would take a trail ride up Lookout Mountain to visit Buffalo Bill’s grave. Through the years, the city of Golden continued to add more and more festivities to the event and today it is one of the town’s largest events. You can learn a ton of information about Golden, Buffalo Bill, the Old West and more by simply attending an event of this caliber.

Did you miss the event? Never fear, as we live in one of the greatest, if not the greatest, state there is. What makes it so great is that there’s never just one of something to enjoy. So, if you missed going to Buffalo Bill Days, check out The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave located just a short drive up on Lookout Mountain, West of Downtown Golden. Getting there on the Lariat Loop Historic Byway is half the fun! Once you’ve reached the top of the mountain, you can visit the museum honoring Buffalo Bill and the people that influenced his life in many ways. People such as, Sitting Bull and Annie Oakley, to name a couple.

Just above the museum you can venture on a short hike to Buffalo Bill’s grave, where, according to history, Buffalo Bill himself requested to be buried. Pay your respects, sit on a bench, enjoy the view or join in the countless old west conversations from fans across the world. Hang around as there is plenty to do. You can enjoy snacks at the café, purchase souvenirs at the gift shop, go for walks around the property to relish in the endless beauty of the Rocky Mountains and/or have a picnic.

What I am reminded of most about history is that although it is in the past, it is never forgotten. Times change, but people remain people, passion remains the same, and every day we are writing our own version of history. The old west still lives and we can continue to help keep it alive by visiting places like The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave.