It's an understatement to say that 2020 has been a strange year. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused businesses to close their doors across the nation, some for good. However, Glenwood Springs has introduced a new idea to boost its economy and encourage tourism that will hopefully help local businesses to stay afloat during this tough time.

Back in June, the town introduced what's known as 'Glenwood Gold,' a local currency that many shops and restaurants accept as payment. Plus, right now if you visit Glenwood Springs between Sundays and Thursdays and stay for at least two nights, the town will give you $100 worth of the local currency.

Lisa Langer, Glenwood Springs' Director of Tourism explained that when tourists visit the town during those weekdays and stay for at least two nights:

They get $100 in Glenwood Gold, which is a community currency that we’re using here now. And we just started the program this year, because of the pandemic.

The idea became very successful in July and August, however, tourism was brought to a grinding halt due to the Grizzly Creek Fire. Luckily, as of now, Glenwood Springs is accessible via I-70 and visitors can take advantage of this offer.

Langer also pointed out that visitors are coming from all parts of the state, including the Front Range.

Glenwood Springs is a tourist destination for many reasons, including the hot springs pool, the Glenwood Caverns adventure park, as well as the many shops and restaurants along Grand Avenue.

Hopefully, this idea will boost Glenwood Springs' economy and will help keep locally owned small businesses afloat.

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