By Bryan Goodland

It was a different time, a different era. The Kennedys held court, the Beach Boys were still singing about California girls and everyone was wishing for a Pontiac GTO.

And locally, the Broncos (1960) and the Rockets (1967), now called the Nuggets, came onto the scene.

While the 1960s seem like a bygone era, there’s still a chance to reminisce about those days long gone. Here are some stops you can make in Denver to relive a little slice of the past.

There are several restaurants in the Denver metro area that opened in the 60s. Ranging in fare from the exclusive to the pedestrian, there is surely something to tempt a variety of palates.

Sam’s No. 3
In Aurora, Sam’s No. 3 has been a neighborhood staple since 1969. This hip and often very crowded venue serves everything from breakfast burritos to chili fries and hamburgers. It’s a fun stop with a nice dash of culture and history to help wash down those fries. For information, visit www.samsno3.com/.

The Fort
The Fort opened in 1963 and offers an eclectic and non-traditional menu. Items range from duck to buffalo and seafood, all served in a place that would fit into the Old West. Plus, the menu is based on what would have been available locally in the 1830s, giving it an even more historical feel. For information, visit www.thefort.com.

Now that your appetite is satiated, it’s time for a little entertainment and maybe even a rest.

Arcade Amusements
If you like arcades and pinball from several different decades, then Arcade Amusements in Manitou Springs is a must. There are five different rooms with a variety of arcade-type games spanning from the 1930s or so up to modern times. For information, visit www.facebook.com/manitouspringspennyarcade.

Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill
Another fabulous 60s pastime is bowling. There are a variety of alleys throughout the Denver metro area, from niche places to the old standbys like AMF centers. However, if you want a fun and quirky bowling experience, head down to Colorado Springs. Tucked in the Bass Pro Shop is Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill.

The entire bowling alley is decorated as an undersea wonderland and even the ball returns are shaped like sharks and various other sea creatures. It is just the right amount of kitchiness that would make any 60s child happy. For information, visit www.unclebucksfishbowlandgrill.com.

After a night out, a little rest might be in order, and there is no better place to go than down to Colorado Springs.

The Broadmoor
Okay, so The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs wasn’t built in the 1960s, but two of their dining spots were.

The Golden Bee and the Penrose Room both opened in 1961, although they offer very different dining experiences.

The Penrose Room is a Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond rated restaurant. They feature a European inspired menu and prices start at $90 per person.

The Golden Bee is patterned after an English pub, and the wood was actually shipped piece by piece from England. The menu ranges from fish and chips to pulled pork sandwiches. The piano bar is a blast too. Prices range from $13-$29. For information, visit www.broadmoor.com/dining.

Of course after dinner or just drinks, a stay at The Broadmoor is always a memorable experience.

Gypsy Love Bus
And lastly, for the truly adventurous, there is the Gypsy Love Bus in true 60s style. Located in Nederland, this privately-owned retro school bus is available on Airbnb. If you decide to stay here, you can truly say that now, you’ve seen everything! For information, visit www.airbnb.com/rooms/13650156?source_impression_id=p3_1565383434_iC5FfZbIQKFkEmow.

Whatever your hankering is, do it in style and share your experience and photos with us at Editor@CastlePinesConnection.com.