The park was developed on the former estate of May Bonfils Stanton, a prominent Denver socialite and daughter of a Denver Post co-owner.
The collection includes a working reproduction of a 1930s filling station, complete with vintage pumps.
Several buildings were saved from demolition and transported to the site to prevent the loss of Lakewood’s architectural heritage.
The property contains a historic orchard that is maintained as part of the living history display.
The visitor center houses an extensive archive documenting the transformation of Lakewood from farmland to a suburban community.
Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park is an open-air museum and park complex dedicated to the preservation of local history through the relocation and restoration of original structures. The site features a collection of historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a farmhouse, and a gas station, relocated from various areas of the city to create a 20th-century town setting. The grounds span over 130 acres, integrating natural landscapes with a visitor center that houses rotating exhibits. It operates under the Lakewood Arts and Culture department and serves as a center for community workshops, heritage festivals, and educational programming. Visitors can explore the preserved structures to observe mid-century architecture and artifacts detailing Colorado’s suburban development. The site also includes walking trails that traverse the park's natural wetlands and meadows.
The main street section featuring the restored gas station and schoolhouse facade.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site spans a large, mostly unpaved outdoor area.
Check the official city calendar for community festivals, as these often provide rare interior access to the historic buildings.
Bring binoculars if you plan to walk the peripheral trails, as the park is a known spot for local birdwatching.
Do not assume all historic buildings are open for interior tours; many are accessible only during guided programs or special events.
Museum galleries and specific interior building access may be limited on Mondays; some seasonal exhibits close during winter months.
Respect all barriers and signage near historic structures; do not touch sensitive artifacts inside buildings.
