Nestled in the heart of Northern Colorado, Johnstown is a thriving town that offers a refreshing charm to those looking to slow down and enjoy a tight-knit community. Johnstown seamlessly blends its rural roots with modern comforts, all while balancing a rich agricultural heritage. Residents enjoy the proximity to Loveland and Fort Collins while benefitting from plenty to do within the town limits, such as dining out, soaking in expansive views, and experiencing a different pace of life.
The town has continued to grow, all while managing to stay true to a welcoming community spirit and providing some of the best of Northern Colorado living to families, professionals and couples alike. Whether you are looking forward to calling Johnstown home or you’re just passing through for the weekend on a quick getaway, the town makes for a great escape from the hustle and bustle of big city life. See what Johnstown is all about with this helpful guide for exploring town!
Things to Do in Johnstown
Don’t let its size fool you because Johnstown has plenty to do! Stay busy with outdoor activities at a local park or visit a family-owned and operated farm nearby with lots to explore, including a corn maze. Your time in Johnstown wouldn’t be complete without an evening at the local dinner theater, either!
Work Up a Sweat on the Court at Eddie Aragon Park
Where? 332 Castle Pines Avenue
Johnstown has an affinity for community-centered parks, so it’s always fun to explore some of the most popular ones! Eddie Aragon Park is located between South Parish Avenue and Castle Pines Avenue, making it a convenient destination for locals visiting the library and the post office. The park offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, including a basketball court, a lit hockey rink, a picnic shelter, a playground, a skate park and a soccer field! Whether you’re gathering with friends for a picnic or you want to play a game of pick up on the court, you can do it all at Eddie Aragon Park!
Other family-friendly green spaces in Johnstown include Parish Park and Hays Park. You don’t have to go very far to enjoy outdoor recreation, which is a staple in both Northern Colorado and the broader Colorado community! After all, with the Colorado weather — who wants to stay inside? There are a multitude of nearby trails and open spaces that connect to the Front Range region, allowing you to hike, bike and run to your heart’s content.
Enjoy a Special Night Out at the Candlelight Dinner Theater
Where? 4747 Marketplace Drive
Who doesn’t love dinner and a show? Put them together and you’ve got the perfect night out! The Candlelight Dinner Playhouse has become the largest and most popular professional dinner theater in Colorado, hailed for performing musicals both old and new and even hosting Grammy award winners! From impressive live entertainment, exceptional customer service and unforgettable experiences, Candlelight is a must-do when in Johnstown. Of course, dinner theater wouldn’t be complete without dinner! From mouthwatering appetizers to decadent desserts, Candlelight sources thoughtful ingredients to enhance your evening of lively entertainment. Sip on a crafted cocktail while you keep your eyes on the stage as the talented actors put on a show you won’t soon forget!
Let the Little Ones Work Off Excess Energy at Kids Empire
Where? 4931 Thompson Parkway
Kids Empire is open every day, rain or shine! Regardless of the weather, the kiddos can always have the time of their lives at the indoor playground built just for them. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday party or just a fun-filled afternoon, Kids Empire in Johnstown invites you to stay all day. The playground features a variety of climbing features, encouraging kids to “play big” as they explore, build, spin, slide, kick and so much more. For the smaller adventurers, there are still plenty of features to enjoy — such as the soft slides, mini trampolines, ball pit, and more. If you’re local to Johnstown and want to get your money’s worth at Kids Empire, consider the punch card with 10 admissions for just $159!
Celebrate the Annual Johnstown BBQ Day Tradition in the Summer
Where? 11 Raymond Place
Every year, this beloved summer tradition fills Parish Park and the surrounding Historic Johnstown streets with laughter, music, and the buzz of more than 100 vendors and food trucks serving up delicious eats and local favorites. Johnstown BBQ Day brings together residents and visitors alike for a full day of hometown fun— complete with a lively parade, vendors, and a spectacular fireworks show to end the night. Held annually on the first Saturday of June, families from across NoCo are welcome to join in on this festive community weekend! This event truly has something for everyone: start your morning with the Front Range Fire Department Pancake Breakfast, then race through the BBQ Day 5K, enjoy duck races, a horseshoe tournament, a toddler zone, and plenty more family-friendly activities. Stick around for the competitive car show, live music and more. Soak in the small-town charm that makes this event one of NoCo’s favorite summer celebrations. Mark your calendar early—you won’t want to miss this community tradition that gets bigger and better every year!
Where to Eat and Drink in Johnstown
The dining scene in Johnstown is complete with local favorites and newcomers looking to make a name for themselves. Whether you’re seeking something a bit more elevated for a special occasion or you want to grab lunch to-go, these are some of the best spots to grab a bite in Johnstown!
See Why Everybody’s Talking About the Green Chile at Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant
Where? 12 South Parish Avenue
Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant is a regional chain serving hearty Mexican plates, including breakfast burritos that will keep you fueled all afternoon and their signature green chile. Whether you’re craving chile rellenos, tamales, enchiladas or a Mexican hamburger smothered in green chile, you can find it all on the menu at Santiago’s. Signature entrees include the green chile bowl served with tortillas and the carnitas plate. Save room for dessert because who can say no to sopapillas and churros?
If you need your green chile fix ASAP, check your local grocer’s freezer aisle! Santiago’s chile can be found at King Soopers, Safeway and select Walmart stores in the Denver area.
Grab an Afternoon Pick-Me-Up at B’s Coffee
Where? 257 Johnstown Center Drive, Suite 105
B’s Coffee is a local staple in Johnstown and for good reason. While it may be small, it makes up for that in bold personality. From seasonal drinks (pumpkin spice, anyone?) to weekday morning staples and friendly service, you won’t get a better glimpse into the town’s neighborly spirit than on a coffee run to B’s. Since first starting in the Johnstown area in 2014, B’s Coffee has been making difficult days just a bit easier to get through with their delicious blends from around the world.
Specialty drinks on the menu are extensive, from cold-weather favorites to every day go-tos. Whether you’re into the Hawaiian Delight with chocolate, coconut and macadamia nut or the Sweater Weather with English toffee and cinnamon, your tastebuds will be dancing with joy when you take that first sip.
Work Your Way Through the Extensive Beer List at Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse
Where? 4874 Thompson Parkway
Situated in Johnstown Plaza, Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse provides diners with a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for weekday dinners or a Saturday night out with friends! From New York-style pies, wings and an impressive craft beer selection, you won’t be left wanting for more. For many locals, this is a go-to gathering spot and when the weather is just right, opting to sit out on the patio is always the move. The menu covers shareable appetizers, such as fried pickles, parmesan fries and the infamous Knickerbocker Cheesy Bread. If you have a hard time deciding on toppings, get them all on The Five Boroughs pie with pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, mushrooms, peppers, black olives and red onion!
Stay up to date with the real-time tap list here, so you’ll know exactly what’s on the menu from Denver Beer Co., who works with Parry’s to provide exclusive beers! You also can’t beat the Parry’s Pints deal, which offers one pint for $4 and your second for $3. Mix and match and inquire about the monthly charity for the new Pennies from Pints Program!
Invite Friends Out for Dinner and Drinks at Lazy Dog Bar & Grill
Where? 4801 Thompson Parkway
Lazy Dog Bar & Grill is family-owned and proud to serve the Johnstown community. Born out of a passion for the stunning Centennial State and the fun-loving people that call Colorado home, it was only natural to bring the community together with great food, delicious drinks and meaningful conversation. The menu covers a range of bases, including street corn nachos, Korean BBQ skewers, buffalo chicken dip and pork green chili. You can choose from salads, sandwiches (try The Cuban with house smoked mojo pork and honey roasted ham!), and cauliflower flatbreads with an assortment of tasty toppings. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, chicken and waffles, or lobster mac and cheese — there’s no doubt you’ll find something tantalizing on the menu.
What to See in Johnstown
Whether you’re a history buff always looking to learn more about places and things or you enjoy checking out local stomping grounds, Johnstown has both! Go back in time to when Johnstown was formed in the 1900s at the Harvey J. Parish House or bring the kids to a family-owned farm and seek out the perfect pumpkin for fall!
View History on Display at the Harvey J. Parish House
Where? 701 Charlotte Street
Added to the Colorado and National Registers of Historic Places in 2000, the Harvey J. Parish House recreates life in the early 1900s when the founder of Johnstown and his wife built the structure in 1914. The original grandeur still rivals many of the other charming homes on Charlotte Street. The museum now houses Parish family heirlooms, which have been passed down over the generations and allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the individuals that helped shape Johnstown’s early days. The museum hosts temporary exhibits and seasonal displays, meaning there’s always something new to discover!
Johnstown visitors may also be interested in exploring historic downtown by taking a stroll down Main Street and stopping in at antique shops, boutiques and local eateries. This allows you to explore at your own pace, while also making new connections with small businesses and community members. However you decide to experience Johnstown, discovering the town’s roots can lead to a deeper understanding of the town as a whole!
Look for the Perfect Pumpkin and Try Not to Get Lost in the Hankins Farms Corn Maze
Where? 26745 Weld County Road 17
Plan an outing to this relaxed, family-owned farm (since 1910!) that features a corn maze and a pumpkin patch when autumn rolls around. The farm offers two mazes equipped with interactive games for the whole family. Additional activities on the farm include pedal karts, a corn cannon, scavenger hunt games and a “pick your own” patch with some truly enormous gourds waiting to go home with you. The farm is situated in a scenic sleepy hollow, making it the perfect destination for a fall afternoon to escape for a few hours. Read more about tickets here and what activities are available. Hankins Farms also offers birthday party bookings, senior and military discounts, as well as group rates!
Ready to Explore Johnstown? Experience Small Town Warmth with Family-Friendly Amenities!
Johnstown embraces its community, with friendly residents, small businesses and plenty of family-friendly events to enjoy. The town’s ability to balance growth and charm highlights why many people are considering the move. If you’re looking for a “best of both worlds” Colorado destination or home base, Johnstown may just be the perfect fit for you.
If you’re interested in exploring the local market, we can help! Our friendly team of realtors at The Group Real Estate can help you decide if Johnstown feels like home. From an evolving culinary scene to tried-and-true hangouts that are brimming with new friends waiting to be made, a weekend in Johnstown is one that will fly by!