Striking gold in Silver City - tourism in Colorado

Sunset, Sept, 2000 by Tim Vanderpool

Holiday Motor Hotel. Clean, comfortable motel. From $47. 3420 US. 180 E.; (800) 828-8291.

Palace Hotel. Enjoy eclectic rooms and a sunny lobby in the heart of downtown. Reasonable rates are a surprise, given the 1880s charm. From $32.50. 106 W. Broadway; 388-1811.

Dining

A.I.R. Coffee Company. Start the day with freshly roasted coffee, tasty bakery goods, and fine art. 8-5:30 Mon-Sat, 8-2 Sun. 112 W. Yankie; 388-5952.

Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House. Savor fine Old West atmosphere and equally fine food. Selections range from steak to baby back pork ribs to spicy New Mexico--style chicken. Live music too. Saloon opens at 3, dining room at 6, Mon-Sat. Pinos Altos; 538-9911.

Diane's Restaurant. Brunch, lunch, and dinner crowds clamor for fresh gourmet cuisine and baked goods. 11-2 Tue-Fri, 9-2 Sat-Sun, 5:30-9 Thu-Sat. 510 N. Bullard; 538-8722.

Drifter Pancake House and Restaurant. You'll find hearty breakfast and lunch fare here; a local favorite is the Belgian sandwich with waffles, bacon, sausage, and egg. 6-2 daily. 711 Silver Heights; 538-2916.

Jalisco Cafe. Sample chile and other traditional Mexican foods. 11-8:30 Mon-Sat. 103 S. Bullard; 388-2060.

Michael's. At the Holiday Motor Hotel, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in a comfortable, semiformal setting. Open daily; call for hours. 3420 U.S. 180 E.; 538-3711.

Nancy's Silver Cafe. This is another good choice for Mexican. 7-7:30 Mon-Sat. 514 N. Bullard; 388-3480.

Pinos Altos Ice Cream Parlor, Cafe, and Post Office. Cool down with a cone or cup. 10-6 Mon-Sat. 30 Main, Pinos Altos; 534-1997.

Vicki's Deli and Eatery. Homemade soups, international dishes, and vegetarian specialties top the menu. 11-4 Mon, 11-9 Tue-Sat. 107 W. Yankie; 388-5430.