To learn about the gold and silver rush and the people who prospered and lost it all (or most of their fortunes) in these parts, stop in the Gilpin County Historical Society Museum (228 High St., Central City, 303/582-5283, www.gilpinhistory.org [1], Memorial Day–Labor Day daily 11 a.m.–4 p.m., by appt. in off-season). The historical society also provides the Opera House [2] and Teller House [3] tours.
Links:
[1] http://www.gilpinhistory.org
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/denver/excursions-denver/central-city-and-blackhawk/sights/central-city-opera-house
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/denver/excursions-denver/central-city-and-blackhawk/sights/teller-house