Arvada’s story began with the first documented discovery of gold in the Rocky Mountain region—a flash of fortune that drew prospectors to what is now known as Gold Strike Park. It was here, in 1850, that Lewis Ralston found a quarter-ounce of gold in a small stream, a moment of discovery that set the stage for a city built on the promise of finding something valuable.
By 1870, the town of Arvada was officially established, named after Hiram Arvada Haskin, with agriculture becoming the backbone of the local economy. From its incorporation in 1904 with just a handful of residents to over 100,000 today, Arvada has grown while maintaining something precious: its spirit of discovery. And today, Arvada’s heart of gold beats in the hands of its collectors and hobbyists—a new generation of prospectors who find their treasures in the city’s unique, locally-owned shops.
The Foundational Stones of a Collection
Arvada is a hub for the curious and the passionate. The city’s hobbyist culture is comprised of communities formed around shared interests, built on a foundation of unique businesses, each offering a specialized selection and a personal touch that can’t be replicated by big chain stores.
For those with an appreciation for history, Arvada’s Olde Town is a destination where historic roots intermingle with new and fresh ideas. Homestead Antique Mall feels like a sprawling treasure hunt, with over 70 dealers packed into an 11,500-square-foot space. It’s a place where even other dealers go to shop, a testament to its vast and ever-changing selection of primitives, glassware, and Western items. And for those who find beauty in a second life, Junkspirations specializes in up-cycled antiques and vintage finds, proving that the past can be both cherished and reimagined.
A City of Shared Passions
The passion for collecting extends far beyond antiques. For model railroaders, the city is a key destination. N Scale Supply is a complete source for 1:160th scale model railroading needs, while Rocky Mountain Train Supply is known as “Colorado’s Largest Train Shop,” stocking thousands of new and used products across various scales and even buying used collections. It’s here that the meticulous craft of model railroading is celebrated, where enthusiasts gather to share knowledge about everything from landscape techniques to the latest locomotive releases.
And for those who collect the latest pop culture treasures, Super Zoom Bang Bang in Olde Town is a local gem, offering a wide selection of games and unique toys, from the latest releases to unique finds, all with the bonus of an in-store arcade. It’s a place that caters to both kids and the kids-at-heart, with prices that often beat online retailers and the irreplaceable experience of discovering something unexpected.
The Art of Preservation and Connection
Sometimes, the greatest passion is in bringing something old back to life. For over 45 years, Light Years Antiques and Restorations has been a testament to Arvada’s spirit of preservation. This locally-owned business specializes in restoring and repairing antique lighting, with thousands of lights to choose from—ensuring that the history and craftsmanship of these pieces can continue to light up homes. The work they do—restoring, repairing, and preserving—mirrors the core purpose of a community dedicated to shared passions.
Speaking of, the Apex Field House Festival 2025 (one of the five Applewood Arts Festivals events that take place in Colorado every year) will be in Arvada this Fall, representing a terrific opportunity for collectors and artisans to connect; yet one more facet of this joyful treasure-hunting culture.
Where Yesterday’s Stories Meet Today’s Treasure Hunters
From its founding with Lewis Ralston’s gold pan to today’s passionate collectors, Arvada has always been a place where people search for something valuable. The difference is that today’s prospectors aren’t looking in streams—they’re looking in carefully curated shops, specialized dealers, and community gatherings where knowledge is shared as freely as stories.
There’s something infectious about spending time among Arvada’s collectors. Their enthusiasm, the depth of their knowledge, and their willingness to share stories is all likely to convert the most casual browsers into die-hard seekers.
Whether it’s the regular who knows exactly which dealer has the best railroad memorabilia, the couple who specializes in mid-century modern furniture, or the grandmother teaching her granddaughter to spot authentic vintage jewelry, Arvada’s collector community spans generations and interests, united by the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of restoration, and the joy of connecting with objects that have stories to tell.
Building for the Future, Honoring the Past
The hobbies and collections found in Arvada are more than just items; they are a reflection of a city that values its roots while constantly embracing new life and new interests. At Red Rock Roofing, we believe in building strong roofs for a community that builds strong connections and preserves the things that matter most.
In a world of planned obsolescence and disposable culture, Arvada’s treasure hunters remind us that some things are worth keeping, worth restoring, worth passing down. That’s the kind of community we’re proud to serve—one that understands that the best buildings, like the best collections, are built to last generations.
Every roof we install in Arvada protects not just a house, but potentially decades of carefully curated collections, lovingly restored pieces, and irreplaceable memories. Just one of the reasons we love Arvada.
