Central City

Central City is a historic mining town in Gilpin County, Colorado, located just one mile from Black Hawk. Known as the "Richest Square Mile on Earth" during the Colorado Gold Rush, Central City has been transformed from a declining historic town into a vibrant casino destination. The town sits at about 8,500 feet elevation in the Front Range foothills, about 35 miles west of Denver.

Central City received its charter in 1867 and was once the second-largest city in Colorado. The town's Victorian architecture has been carefully preserved, and its historic venues include the Central City Opera House, built in 1878 and still hosting performances during the summer opera festival. Casino gambling, approved by Colorado voters in 1990, has brought new life to the town while maintaining its historic character.

By Plane

Denver International Airport (DEN) is about 60 miles east. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.

By Car / Road

Central City is accessible via US-6 from Denver, then CO-119. The drive takes about 45 minutes from downtown Denver. Casino shuttles operate from Denver and Aurora. The town is also just one mile from Black Hawk, connected by shuttle service.

Central City is very small and walkable. The historic district, casino area, and most attractions are within walking distance. Shuttles connect Central City to Black Hawk.

• Central City Opera House (124 Eureka St): A beautifully preserved Victorian opera house built in 1878, hosting the Central City Opera Festival each summer. Tours available.

• Historic Downtown: Victorian-era buildings along Main Street and Eureka Street, many housing casinos, restaurants, and shops.

• Gilpin County Museum: Local history and mining artifacts.

• Casino Gaming: Several casinos including Century Casinos and the Central City Gilpin Casino offer slots and table games.

• Central City Opera: Summer opera festival featuring performances in the historic opera house and other venues.

• Historic Walking Tours: Self-guided tours of Victorian buildings and mining sites.

• Outdoor Recreation: Hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding mountains.

• Casino Dining: Century Casinos and other properties offer restaurants and buffets.
• Historic Establishments: Several restaurants in historic buildings along Main Street.

Casino bars and lounges serve drinks throughout the day. The town has several historic bars and saloons alongside the modern casino establishments.

• Budget: Various lodging options in the surrounding area, including B&Bs.
• Mid-range: Casino hotels offer standard rooms.
• Upscale: Limited luxury options in Central City itself; Black Hawk (1 mile away) offers more choices.

• Historic Shops: Various souvenir shops and galleries along Main Street.
• Casino Gift Shops: Each casino offers merchandise and souvenirs.

• Black Hawk (1 mile, 5 min): Colorado's largest casino town with more gaming options.
• Denver (35 miles east, 45 min): The state capital with world-class museums and dining.
• Georgetown (20 miles west, 30 min): Historic mountain town with the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
• Idaho Springs (15 miles west, 20 min): Gold mine tours and natural hot springs.
• Golden (25 miles southeast, 35 min): Colorado Railroad Museum and Coors Brewery.