places to visit in colorado for free

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Colorado

Best free things to do in colorado.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Five Points
• Central Business District
• Capitol Hill
• Cherry Creek
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Garden of the Gods

2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

3. Denver Union Station

4. Telluride Mountain Village Gondola

5. United States Air Force Academy

6. Hanging Lake Trail

7. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

8. Main Street

9. Pearl Street Mall

10. Independence Pass

11. Historic Downtown Durango

12. Skyline Drive

13. Colorado Chautauqua: Park

14. Million Dollar Highway

15. Red Rock Canyon

16. New Belgium Brewing

17. Flatirons

18. 16th Street Mall

19. Colorado State Capitol

20. Treasure Falls

21. Helen Hunt Falls

22. Grand Mesa

23. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

24. Manitou Springs Incline

25. Lookout Mountain

26. Old Colorado City Historic District

27. Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park

28. Coors Brewery

29. The John Denver Sanctuary

30. Boreas Pass Road

What travelers are saying

Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

21 Amazingly Free Things to Do in Colorado Right Now

• July 11, 2022
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on January 10, 2024 by foxintheforest

When it comes to low-cost entertainment, Colorado is queen. There are so many different free things to do in Colorado year-round, you’ll find it easy to plan a budget-friendly adventure.

Making the most of your time in Colorado shouldn’t break the bank. Sure, more and more outdoor activities are becoming permitted, fee-based things (conservation costs money), but that doesn’t mean you won’t find plenty of awesome free activities in Colorado to choose from.

As a local of 13 years, I spend a lot of my time recreating around the Centennial State at little to no cost. So if you’re looking to explore the free things to do in Colorado like a local, not a tourist, then you’re in the right place.

About this Guide to Free Things to Do in Colorado

Inside this local guide to free things to do in Colorado you’ll find:

• Top free things to do near Denver
• Free activities in Colorado Springs
• Additional free things to do in Colorado
• When to visit Colorado

What is There to Do in Colorado for Free?

When it comes to free activities in Colorado, there are plenty of awesome adventures to be had. Colorado is an outdoor place, so many of the budget-friendly activities revolve around getting outside and soaking up that vitamin D. A few of the top free things to do in Colorado include:

• Scenic drives
• People watching in outdoor districts
• Visiting open space parks

The Top Free Things to Do Near Denver

Denver has grown a lot over the years. Filled with just enough bustle to feel like a city, there are plenty of free things to do in Denver.

1. Visit the US Mint

Want to literally see how money is made? Head to the Denver US Mint. Here you’ll see how America’s pocket change is made. Conveniently located near the famous 16th Street Mall (free shuttle rides available), this is one of the top things to do in Denver . Tours are offered during specific times and require an advanced reservation.

Local Tip : Due to the pandemic, no tours are being given at this time.

2. Go for a Free Brewery Tour

Home to over 148 breweries and counting, Denver knows their sudsy libations. You can tour a LOT of these breweries for the fine price of $0. Some even include a few free samples too! A few fan favorites include:

• Coors Brewery in Golden : The largest brewery in the world
• Wynkoop Brewing Company
• Great Divide Brewing Company
• Denver Beer Company

Each brewery has its own set of rules and times for its tours, so be sure to check with the individual brewery before showing up.

3. Visit Red Rock Amphitheater

The average cost of a concert at the famous Red Rock Amphitheater is…well…expensive, but did you know that it’s completely free to visit Red Rocks during the daytime? If there is no scheduled ticketed event you’re free to roam this world-famous amphitheater.

Walk down the stairs and look up while imagining a full house. It’s not just a workout to visit this famous concert venue, but it’s also home to a few of the best easy hikes near Denver too. All are completely open to you for no cost.

4. Attend the First Friday Art Walk on Sante Fe

The first Friday of every month marks a special occasion in the Mile High City. Art galleries all over town throw their doors open and allow visitors to come and browse the latest exhibits for free. As one of the best free things to do in Denver, mark the first Friday of the month and cruise down the Sante Fe Arts District to scope some art.

Art walks happen every first Friday of the month from 5:30 to 9:30 pm.

5. Visit the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge

Watch the buffalo roam just outside of the Denver metro area. Visiting the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge outside of Commerce City is completely free.

All of the hiking trails are rated as easy and each season boasts different wildlife to enjoy. There are even self-guided Wildlife Drive Tours available too. With over 15,000 acres of land, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal is one of the top free things to do in Colorado any time of year.

6. Enjoy Jazz in the Park

City Park in Denver hosts a bundle of free concerts every Sunday during the sweltering summer months, making this one of the more unique things to do in Colorado . City Park Jazz meets every Sunday from 6 pm to 8 pm to celebrate different jazz artists from across the city. These much-loved free concerts in Denver are a time-honored tradition. So pack a picnic and your sunglasses to enjoy that summer vibe.

7. Float Down a River

As the snow melts off the mountains, the rivers of the foothills swell with water and…tubers. In fact, tubing in Colorado is quite popular in late spring and early summer past time. The best part? It’s completely free. If you don’t have a tub, inner tire tubes are a cheap alternative. A few popular places to plop in include:

• Clear Creek Canyon in Golden
• The South Platte River, Deckers
• Boulder Creek in Boulder
• South Platte River Littleton
• St Vrain Creek, Lyons
• Cache la Poudre River, Fort Collins

Keep in mind that currents can get quite fierce and some areas are not suitable for children. Always do your homework before you plop in and float

Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs

With all of the things to do in Colorado Springs, you’ll be surprised to learn that many of them are totally free. Here’s a look at a few must-see spots in Colorado Springs you can’t miss.

8. Hike at Garden of the Gods

Gaze upon dreamy red rock towers butted against snow-capped peaks at the famous Garden of the Gods . Long known as one of the most beautiful places in Colorado , the Garden of the Gods is also completely free. Arguably one of the top free things to do in Colorado if you’re into dreamy landscapes, this is a must-see.

Local tip: To avoid the throngs of people, consider visiting in the cooler months. The crowds are one of the many reasons people consider this to be one of the most overrated attractions in Colorado.

As one of the top things to do in Colorado Springs in winter , you’ll want to scope out this incredible park dusted in snow.

9. Sip Mineral Water at Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs is well-known for those threatening stairs at the Manitou Incline, but did you know that you can score free mineral water in the city? Sure, you may have to pay for a heinous stair climb these days, but there are 8 natural springs throughout the city where you can fill up on refreshing mineral water.

They say each one has a different taste, so go on a tasting tour and decide for yourself.

10. Visit the Painted Mines Interpretive Park

As one of the top Colorado Springs hikes , a visit to the Painted Mines Interpretive Park needs to be on your list. Featuring several easy trails, that wind their way through a canyon that looks more like a coloring book, the Painted Mines Interpretive Park is entirely free to visit. Don’t miss out on this top free activity in Colorado Springs.

11. Check Out the Air Force Academy

Home to world-famous architecture and one cool school, the Air Force Academy is a great option for free things to do in Colorado. Visitors can check out Barry Goldwater Visitor Center and learn all about cadet life, check out aircraft and even have a picnic. The Cadet Area has plenty of walking trails too.

No trip to the Air Force Academy is complete without stopping at the chapel. As a top American architectural monument, it’s pretty sweet to see, even if it is closed for a private event.

Local Tip : The Cadet Chapel is currently closed for repairs and isn’t scheduled to reopen until 2023.

Other Awesome Free Things to Do in Colorado

With so many different things to do in Colorado , we are just scratching the surface between Denver and Colorado Springs. These top free attractions in Colorado get you out and about without breaking the bank.

12. Enjoy Free Admission Days at Colorado’s 4 National Parks

Colorado is home to 4 different national parks and eight national monuments. During a few select days of the year, you can access these public spaces for free. So if you’re looking to spend the day in Rocky Mountain National Park for free, mark your calendar.

Just keep in mind that free parks days are extremely popular, so expect a lot of people. 2022 free dates include:

• Martin Luther King Jr Day: Jan 17th
• April 16th: Start of National Park Week
• August 4th: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• September 24th: National Public Lands Day
• November 11th: Veterans Day

Local Tip: If you pick up an America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80 with fees) it’s good for 12 months and gets you into over 400 parks across the country. It’s a great budget-friendly option if you’re visiting lots of national parks and monuments in a 12 month period.

13. Go for a Scenic Mountain Drive

Okay, so if we’re getting technical, you have to pay for gas. But, if you’re looking to score beautiful mountain views without an entrance fee, then look no further than these amazing scenic drives in Colorado :

• Loveland Pass near Idaho Springs
• Guanella Pass
• Kenosha Pass
• Cottonwood Pass
• The Million Dollar Highway and San Juan Scenic Byway
• Alpine Loop : 4×4 with high clearance required, summer only
• Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

14. Visit Bishop’s Castle

Did you know that one of the most unique things to do in Colorado is completely free? Yup, that’s right. Head out to the weird and wild Bishop’s Castle, a man-made castle of wild proportions. The castle is open year-round and offers a glimpse into the unique off-the-grid world of fantasy.

Featuring a fire-breathing dragon, bridges, ballrooms, and 3-story towers, this is a must-see free Colorado attraction.

15. Ride the Breckenridge Gondola

There are a lot of things to do in Breckenridge , but one of the most entertaining ways to jet across town is to ride the gondola. Usually, a scenic gondola ride costs a pretty penny, but you can ride the Breckenridge Gondola completely for free. Open (almost) year-round as a way in and out of town, this free ride takes you into the heart of the Tenmile Range.

So hitch a ride on the Breck Connect to enjoy hanging around downtown Breckenridge. Dogs are welcome on the gondola. Right now hours vary based on Covid requirements so call 800-536-1890 for hours.

Local Tip: The gondola closes for maintenance from the time the ski resorts close until mid-June and then from mid-September until the resort opens again.

16. Take a Wildflower Hike

One of the absolute best free things to do in Colorado is to hit the trails. Colorado hikes are an incredible experience, and many of the top trails don’t require you to spend a dime. Of course, many are in restricted, paid, or permitted areas, but if you’re looking to enjoy the summer blooms, there are plenty of options for you.

July and early August mark Colorado wildflower season in the high country. The mountains burst with color as the yellows, orange, and purple hues poke out of the deep green mountain valleys. Many of the most beautiful wildflower hikes in Colorado are completely free.

Local Tip : Trampling flowers in the alpine destroys decades of growth. Stick to the trails, and pick up after yourself (including your pet).

17. Visit a Ghost Town

As people pushed west in search of riches, Colorado mining boomed. But like every big boom, there were lots of busts too. The result? Infamous ghost towns in Colorado. Since many of these towns are totally free to visit, why not add it to the list of budget-friendly activities in Colorado?

A few awesome ghost towns that you can visit for free include:

• St Elmo and Tin Cup near Buena Vista
• Winfield near Buena Vista: 4WD, high clearance required
• Animas Fork near silverton: SUV recommended
• Teller city near Walden
• Mayflower Gulch and the Boston Mine: On foot

18. Enjoy Camping for Free

If there’s one thing that this mountain state is known for, it’s free camping. Free camping in Colorado means you’ll need to bring in and out all of your supplies. There are no restrooms or facilities so be prepared to know how to Leave No Trace .

But for the intrepid traveler, you can have an entire weekend getaway in Colorado without paying for lodging. All you need is a tent or a car that you can sleep in.

19. Stargaze in Dark Sky Territory

So the cities in Colorado are booming, but there are still several slices of designated Dark Sky Territory in Colorado. The Dark Sky designation means that there is no light pollution affecting the stary nights. One of the top places to enjoy stargazing in Colorado is the Smokey Jack Observatory outside of Westcliffe, Colorado.

This tiny, unassuming mountain town is home to some of the best stargazing in the country. Their array of free events from May through early October is utterly awesome if you want to discover what lies in the great beyond.

Local Tip: If your budget allows for it, consider leaving a donation so that these programs can continue to be low-cost for everyone.

20. Summit a Colorado 14er

If you’ve got summit dreams, then you’ll want to tackle the challenge of hiking to the top of one of the 50-plus Colorado 14ers (peaks over 14,000 feet tall). But don’t take this challenge lightly. Even the easiest 14ers in Colorado are super difficult. Only attempt these hikes if you’ve got ample mountain hiking experience under your belt and you understand how to be safe while hiking a 14er.

Local Tip: Many of the 14ers near Denver are now paid, permitted hikes, so do your homework before you set out.

21. Check Out the Continental Divide

The Continental Divide rips through Colorado, dividing the rivers that flow east and the ones that flow west. It’s kind of like the Equator of North America. Although it’s not officially labeled everywhere you go, you can gaze upon this glorious mountain ridge that runs north and south across North America for free in several places across Colorado.

A few popular points to see this epic landmark for free are:

• Loveland Pass: Paved Road
• Independence Pass: Paved Road
• Grays Peak : very challenging hike
• Rabbit Ears Pass: Paved Road
• Collegiate Peaks Wilderness: hiking, camping, and scenic driving
• Monnarch Pass: Paved road

What is the Number 1 Attraction in Colorado?

In terms of the sheer number of visitors, Rocky Mountain National Park is the number one attraction in Colorado. With over 4 million visitors annually, it’s the most popular attraction in the state. Other popular attractions include:

• Hanging Lake hike near Glenwood Springs
• Maroon Bells in Aspen
• Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs

When is the Best Time to Visit Colorado?

Colorado is an amazing destination to visit year-round. If you’re looking for free things to do in Colorado, you may want to stick to June through September, since many of the top free attractions are dependent on snow-free access.

Colorado in spring is pretty mellow. The weather can be quite variable, but snow is common in the mountains through May, with most of the higher elevations melting out by the beginning or middle of June.

Summers are an amazing time to visit Colorado, but it’s exceptionally crowded, especially at some of the best state parks in Colorado . This also means higher prices if you’re on a budget. However the mountains are warmer, open, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

Fall in Colorado is a dream, with stunning orange and yellow aspen displays. It’s a popular time for locals to get out and explore, so expect crowds.

Winters tend to be cold and snowy. Although it is sunny and 50-degree days aren’t uncommon at lower elevations. It’s definitely the time to ski, however, there are plenty of things to do during winter in Colorado that doesn’t require you to pay $200-plus for a lift ticket.

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Additional Local Colorado Travel Resources

Wanna visit Colorado like a local? You’re in good company. I’ve lived in Colorado for well over a decade and I’ve got a lineup of kick-ass travel resources for you.

• Your Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• How to Visit Colorado Like a Local
• Weekend Getaways from Denver You Need to Know About

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

21 Cheap and Free Things to Do in Colorado This Week [Frugal Tips]

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

Exploring Colorado shouldn’t bust your budget each month. There are lots of cheap and free things to do in Colorado, if you know how to find the best deals.

After living in Colorado for nearly all my life, I have discovered some insider tips and tricks for saving big on Colorado entertainment.

Here are my top picks for cheap and free things to do in Colorado this week!

1. Hike to Doc Holliday’s grave

If you’re visiting Glenwood Springs, go for a free hike up to Doc Holliday’s grave . This is a fun family outing as Linwood Cemetery is the oldest one in the area!

Dogs are allowed when on a leash and the hike down offers stunning views of the valley below. And the best part is that parking in the area is free too .

It’s a historic hike where you can learn about Doc Holliday’s life and some of the other wild west stories in Colorado.

2. Tour a Colorado brewery for free

Colorado is known for its numerous micro breweries across the state. Tours at MillerCoors Brewery in Golden used to be free, but now it costs $5.

Although, this price isn’t bad at all considering it’s a 30-minute tour and you get to taste samples of beer .

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins offers a free tour, with story-telling and beer samples for anyone 21 years or older.

A brewery tour is a fun, informative activity where you get to try some beer samples for free!

3. Visit the State Capitol

If you’re looking for some free altitude-themed fun, try a walking tour of the State Capital in Denver .

Then climb to the 13th step; it’s exactly 1 mile above sea level at 5,280 feet.

You will see the marker there and can even take a picture to document your fun!

4. Save big at Glenwood Springs

Planning a visit to the largest mineral hot springs pool in Glenwood Hot Springs ?

You can get discounts if you go from late September to mid May (Memorial Day). Glenwood Springs calls it “Value Season,” which will save about $6 off adult entry.

You can also stay at the Hot Springs Lodge across the street from the hot springs pool.

A stay at the Lodge comes with free entry into the pool, and free breakfast!

5. Visit the Paint Mines Park

The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is located 36 miles east of Colorado Springs and is completely free to visit all year long.

With over 750 acres of open space made up of prairies and grasslands, there is always something to explore.

The site is a popular draw for archaeologists, bird watchers, and geology lovers.

The Paint Mines Trail is an easy 3.5 mile loop that’s great for walking, hiking, and running.

This short day trip is free to visit and offers a colorful Colorado experience like no other.

6. Learn about Colorado Day

Take advantage of all the free activities available on August 1st every year.

This day is known as “ Colorado Day ” because this is the date that Colorado officially became a state on August 1, 1876.

Every year, you will find special events and discounts across the state.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife waves entrance fees to all state parks and you can also take advantage of free museum admission to places like The History Colorado museum .

So mark your calendars!

7. Get free water at Manitou Springs

Get free mineral water at Manitou Springs from one of the 8 natural springs throughout the city.

Take a drink with your hands, or with a cup and you’ll get a big dose of your daily needed minerals in one sip.

Some locals even enjoy bringing large gallon jugs to fill up because the water is full of minerals your body will love.

Each spring has a slightly different taste so walk around and try them all and find one that suits you best.

8. Check out a museum at CU in Boulder

Boulder is home to the University of Colorado , which means there are lots of things you can enjoy on the cheap at CU’s campus!

Check out the University of Colorado’s three museums:

• The CU Museum of Natural History is home to a huge insect and fossil collections.
• The CU Heritage Center has a stunning architecture gallery.
• The University of Colorado Art Museum has a diverse collection of items encompassing over 10,000 years of human history.

All three are open to visitors for just a suggested donation.

9. Enjoy Wildflower hikes

The Denver Botanic Gardens hosts many different nature and wildflower walks each month.

One that we enjoy is the Naturalist Wildflower Walks that happens at the beginning of each month starting in May and continuing through late July.

An expert from their Horticulture Department leads tours and hikes across varying landscapes to see different plants and wildflowers.

Many plants and flowers bloom at Denver’s elevation before they bloom in the mountains so you can learn about them first-hand.

The hike is $25 per person or $20 if you are a member. You can also find other classes and walks available through their website.

10. Visit the Golden History Museum and Park

In the town of Golden, just a short drive from Denver, you can get free admission to the Golden History Museum and Park .

Check out cabins from the 1800s, a historical one-room school, and a flock of heirloom chickens at the History Park.

You can also learn about Golden’s unique history and epic timeline of events and see rare, historical objects.

It is a great thing to do for the whole family or even as a unique date idea!

11. Grab the Mile High Culture Pass

If you’re looking for even more culture in your life, check out the Mile High Culture Pass or try the Denver CityPASS .

This 3-day Culture Pass gives you admission to some of Denver’s most popular cultural attractions for around $32.

This pass includes admission to the Denver Botanic Gardens, the Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science across a 3-day period.

In addition, you will receive exclusive discounts at other Denver attractions, including bike shares across the city!

This is a great way to discover multiple activities across Denver if you’re here for just a few days exploring.

12. Go outside for Free Entrance Days

Every year, the National Park Service offers Free Entrance Days into more than 400 National Parks.

The entrance fee is waived for a completely fee-free experience on specific days of the year.

There are 6 free entrance dates in 2024, just check their website for the exact dates.

It’s important to note that though the fee is waved to enter the park, the other amenities such as camping, boat launches, transportation or special tours are still incurred.

13. Witness living history in Colorado Springs

There are a ton of great free activities to do in Colorado Springs, especially out in nature.

Two popular, free attractions are Garden of the Gods and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum.

Garden of the Gods is home to the iconic, stunning red rock formations with access to both the park and visitor center.

The Pioneers Museum collects and exhibits the extensive history and culture of the Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs Region.

All of this admission is totally free or you can spend a few dollars and enjoy a Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Tour .

14. Learn about money at the Denver Mint

One free thing to do while in Denver is to visit one of the country’s three Mints .

Visitors will learn about the history of the United States Mint and how coins are produced for the American public.

Free tours run Mondays through Thursdays from 8 am to 3:30 pm. Although, for 2021 the tours have been closed until further notice.

The guided tour lasts about 45 minutes and is totally free. You can save money while learning about money! Sadly, there are no free samples.

15. Sample free brews in Colorado Springs

If you want to discover new breweries in the Pikes Peak area, check out the Colorado Springs Crafts and Drafts Passport .

You get discount drinks and free tastings at local breweries, wineries, distilleries, and even specialty coffee roasters.

When you sign up, a pass is instantly delivered to your phone through text and email (so there is no app to download).

When you visit a participating venue, simply present your phone to get the code and redeem your discounts. And it’s totally free to sign up!

16. Use a Discovery Pass

If you’re visiting the south-central area of Colorado, be sure to check out the Discovery Pass .

This digital pass includes 47 local small businesses that offer over $800 in savings by simply signing an online pledge.

Get access to lots of other freebies for eating, drinking, lodging, shops and entertainment in Salida and Buena Vista, CO .

You get savings like 2 for 1 entrees, accommodation specials, free beer tastings, $5 off menu items, and more.

And the pass is totally FREE by going to colorfulcolorado.com/adventure and taking the free online pledge.

17. Make the most out of brunch

Who doesn’t love brunch? In Colorado brunch eateries offer discounts and freebies when you sign up for their email list.

We have signed up for many of them and have gotten free brunch entrees, drinks, coffee and more.

As a local, not only will you get all the goodies, but you will be able to get the latest news about their additions to menus, like when they change out seasonal food.

Also, don’t forget to check out their rewards programs and stamp cards.

18. Ride the free Breckenridge Gondola

The Breckenridge Gondola, also called the BreckConnect , is free to ride up and down all day.

Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains, the town below and fresh air of 7,600 ft above sea level.

The gondola ends at one of the mountain peaks and offers many places to eat with break-taking views.

Feel free to bring your leashed dog on the gondola as there are many hiking trails around the resort weather permitting.

The gondola does carry bikes up as well in the off season, but there is a fee. And you will need a lift ticket if you want to hit the slopes up there during the ski season.

19. Drive to see the Continental Divide

One of the most brag-worthy (and free) activities you can do in Colorado is driving up and over the Continental Divide.

The road stays open in winter, weather permitting. Follow the road and you will hit the summit of Loveland Pass at 11,990 feet!

The summit has some parking areas and you can stop to enjoy the view and take pictures.

There is even a sign with a marker of the altitude so you can take a photo and document the proof.

20. Climb the towers at Bishop Castle

Bishop Castle is an historic building made of up stone iron that has stood the test of time.

The creator, Jim Bishop who the castle is named after, purchased two-and-a-half acres of land in 1959.

Since then he invested all of his time and money into the building the castle and making it what it is today.

Many of the rooms offer expansive views of the mountains and the plains that you can see for miles and miles.

Check out the Grand Ballroom, the soaring towers, iron bridges, and the Breathing Dragon.

It is considered by some to be the country’s largest one-man project! Visitors are welcomed to visit free of charge , no matter what time of year.

21. Enjoy free entry to museums

Colorado has some of the best public libraries in the country. And the Denver Public Library is no exception.

It offers perks like free passes to museums in the area. How? Book a free pass at least 30 days in advance by going to their TixKeeper website .

Admission is valued for up to two adults plus quests.

You can find free tickets to:

• the History Colorado Center
• Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
• Molly Brown House
• the Denver Zoo
• Butterfly Pavilion
• And several other places

If you are looking for free things to do in Colorado, or just want cheap ways to explore the state, use this list as a reference to plan your next adventure!

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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49 Best Free Things to do in Denver (& the Surrounding Area!)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Did somebody say free!? That’s right, there are many incredible free things to do in Denver, Colorado, and the surrounding area, which can make it a great place to visit if you’re traveling on a budget.

We moved to Denver back in 2020 and still love doing a lot of the free activities in Denver, especially when we have families and friends visit. That’s because Denver’s free activities are actually fun and can provide you with some great memories, especially if you’re visiting the city for the first time.

So, what are you waiting for? Read on to learn about the best free things to do in Denver CO!

🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver !

Table of Contents

Free Things to do in Denver

Meet locals at a farmer’s market.

There are many different farmer’s markets in Denver and the surrounding area, especially throughout the summer . These are completely free to visit and can be a great way to meet other locals!

Even though it’s free to visit, you may not be able to help yourself but buy some of the incredible things that get sold at these markets.

One of the most popular markets in Denver is actually hosted right at Denver Union Station , which is impossible to miss if you’ll be staying at a hotel in LoDo.

Walk around the 16th Street Mall

One of the best free things to do in Denver tonight is to visit 16th Street Mall. Don’t get me wrong, this is a very touristy street, but it will most likely be where you’re staying because a lot of the hotels surround it.

The mall is located pretty centrally right in LoDo and is filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and more. If you want any souvenirs, the shops here are pretty decent, though they can be a bit on the high end. (Pro tip: for some cooler souvenirs, head to Boulder.)

The mall is fairly long, so if you want to move from shop to shop easily, be sure to make use of the free mall ride. This bus stops at almost every block, and you can hop off and hop on for no charge.

Take in the view from Lost Gulch Overlook

While it’s technically not located directly in Denver, Lost Gulch Overlook is a short drive from the city center, and it should be on your list. This is especially true if you’ll only be visiting Denver for a short period of time because it is one of the closer outdoor lookouts.

Lost Gulch Overlook is located in Boulder, one of Denver’s best day trips. The view from the overlook is incredible, and you’ll often find people taking senior photos or even couples photos up there. You might even sport an engagement session or two!

One of the great things about this lookout is that it’s not commonly busy. Every time I’ve been there, it’s been super easy to get a spot, even in the middle of summer. There are benches, so you could even pack a picnic lunch and eat it while enjoying the view.

Attend the Five Points Jazz Festival

The Five Points Jazz Festival is an annual event that takes place in Denver. The purpose of the festival is to celebrate the history of Five Points, one of the neighborhoods in Denver. It normally takes place in June.

For those who love music, you absolutely can’t miss out on the Five Points Jazz Festival because it’s one of the best free things to do in Denver Colorado. It can also be a great activity with kids!

Head to Union Station & Visit the Shops

It’s nearly impossible to miss Union Station when visiting Denver. In fact, it’s very possible that you made it into the city by taking the train from the airport to this train station. You can also take the bus or even the Amtrak and light rail at this station.

Union Station is a historic landmark that is truly breathtaking. The inside has unique architecture and is truly a marvel. In winter, it gets all decked out with holiday lights and trees; you won’t want to miss it!

The station is almost always busy, but it’s worth at least stopping inside and checking out the shops. Right outside are more spots to sit and also a fun fountain that turns on in the summer months.

If you’re hungry and do want to spend some money, be sure to check out ACME Delicatessen (they have the best sandwiches), Milkbox Ice Cream (for the best ice cream), or Snooze. an AM Eatery (for the best breakfast and brunch).

Snap a photo at the Welcome to Golden sign

If you’ll be renting a car during your trip to Denver, then hop on over to the town of Golden . This town is quaint and has a distinctly wild west feel to it, and the main area is lined with fun shops that you won’t want to miss.

One of the most photographic spots of the town is their Welcome to Golden sign. It spans right over the street, and in winter, it even gets decorated with fun holiday decor! This town is always a lot quieter than Boulder, which is another great place to visit nearby.

Take a tour of the Colorado State Capitol Building

Located in downtown Denver, you absolutely must take a tour of the Colorado State Capitol Building! It has a bright gold dome on top and is at the end of the 16th Street Mall, so you can visit both in the same afternoon.

There are free tours of the Colorado State Capitol building Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. You don’t even have to make a reservation for the tour unless you’ll be touring with ten people or more.

This is easily one of the best free things to do in downtown Denver.

Find Denver’s best photo spots

Because of how picturesque Denver is, there are actually tons of amazing spots to take a photo that will help you remember your day in the city. Some great spots for a photo include Red Rocks (which you’ll learn about later in this post), Confluence Park, and Coors Field.

Explore Tattered Cover Bookstore

I know what you’re thinking: a bookstore on the list of free things to do in Denver? Well, duh! The Tattered Cover Book Store is one of the best Denver bookstores, and it has quite a few locations throughout the city. The best one downtown is in McGregor Square by Coors Field.

Dating back to the 1970s, this bookstore is truly a staple in the city. They have tons of fun books, and a lot of the locations even have a cafe. Be sure to take some time to peruse the store.

Maybe even grab a book or two if you do want to spend some money during this otherwise free activity!

Walk the Cherry Creek Trail

Walking along the Cherry Creek Trail is one of the best free things to do in Denver. It’s fairly long, but you can definitely just do a portion of it to enjoy what the city’s path has to offer.

The trail is paved, so it’s fairly easy. Walk kids with a stroller, go on a morning jog, or just walk part of it to get your legs moving. Along parts of the trail, you can even walk beside a peaceful creek.

There are also many more spots to hike along the Cherry Creek Reservoir.

People watch in Confluence Park

Situated right downtown by 16th Street, Confluence Park is one of the most peaceful spots that you can find in the city. We used to live in LoDo and would come to this park fairly often when the weather was nice for either a quick walk or even a picnic.

This is where the Cherry Creek meets with the South Platte River.

There’s lots of green space throughout the park where you can sit and enjoy the view or even lay out a blanket. People always bring their furry friends, too, so you may even meet a puppy or two while you’re there!

In the summer, this can be a pretty good spot to catch the sunrise or the sunset. It’s usually mostly filled with locals who live in the apartments nearby.

Visit The Denver Central Library

Another of the best free things to do in Denver is to go to the Denver Public Library . Libraries are always a good bet if you’re looking for something affordable to do in any city, and the one in Denver is no exception.

The library opened in 1889, and visitors are welcome to go inside and explore. If you’re a book lover, this can be a fun way to pass the time, and it can also be a great place to explore if it’s raining during your trip.

They host some events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website to see if there will be one during your trip.

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Watch the National Western Stock Show Parade

Hosted in January each year, the National Western Stock Show Parade is a unique event that you should add to your calendar. During this parade, guests can see more than thirty different Longhorn cattle!

It’s a super fun event to attend because you see a piece of the Wild West juxtaposed with the modernity of the city. It’s very different than anything else you’d see in Denver!

Check out the view at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A short drive from downtown Denver is Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre . While it’s commonly known for being the top spot in Colorado to watch a live show, it’s also a great spot to hike, relax, and take in the view.

Everywhere you look at this landmark, you’ll see bright red rocks and the mountains in the distance. It’s open during the day and can be visited for free. Note that it does close to the public a little earlier on days that there is a concert scheduled.

Sometimes, you can even attend yoga classes and other fitness groups here!

Go stargazing (no, really)

Even though Denver is a city, there are spots to go stargazing nearby. That’s one of the beauties of Denver; it’s like New York City, where you can’t escape the city. In fact, you can end up in the middle of the wilderness with just a 30-45 minute drive, depending on the direction.

There are a few spots to go stargazing in Denver and the surrounding area, including Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, Garden of the Gods, and Rocky Mountain National Park if you want to make the drive.

Visit The Denver Mint

If you love money and history, then you’ll want to stop by The Denver Mint . This museum is fun and unique and was first opened back in 1906. Tickets for a tour are free, but time for the tours is limited because it’s such a popular one in the area.

When you’re done, be sure to stop in the gift shop.

Attend Denver PrideFest

Each year, Denver goes all out with PrideFest . We’re part of the queer community, and we can attest to that! It’s a super fun event that is completely free to attend, and it normally happens during one of the last weekends in June.

What’s so great is that there are also other events happening throughout June for Pride as well, especially in the area. Boulder even has its own fun Pride events, so if you’re in Denver in June at all, be sure to look into those!

Explore the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame

If you’re looking for free things to do in Denver CO and you love sports, then consider going to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame . There’s free admission, and it’s one of the more overlooked free attractions in the city.

The museum first opened back in 1965 and is located at Empower Field at Mile High. This is where the Denver Broncos play, so the environment is super fun.

Hike up to St Mary’s Glacier

One of the most beautiful hikes in the Denver area is St Mary’s Glacier . This is a moderate hike that does have quite a bit of elevation (around 1000+ feet), but it’s rather short otherwise, and the view is so rewarding.

It’s located near Idaho Springs, and while the hike itself is free, you do have to pay a fee to park. Consider carpooling with others in the area for it to cost less!

Relax at City Park

To get outdoors, head to City Park. Denver has many parks , but this is one of the best. Relaxing there is one of the best free things to do in Denver this weekend and any weekend at that! The park is absolutely massive and covers around 300+ acres of land, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot for yourself.

Throughout the park, there are trails for walking and biking. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Denver Zoo are also located in City Park.

Note that the park is a bit outside of downtown, so it is easier to get there by car or by using public transportation. We tried riding the electric scooters there from LoDo once, and needless to say, we don’t recommend trying to get there like that, haha!

In the summer months, you can even attend City Park Jazz to enjoy some music outdoors.

Catch the New Year’s Eve fireworks show

Every year in Denver, there’s a fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. It’s usually downtown and is completely free to see! Plus, if you’re in LoDo in one of the hotels for your trip, you may even be able to see them from there.

The best place to scout out these fireworks is along the 16th Street Mall. Sometimes, they’ll even be playing music along the Mall that will sync up perfectly with the fireworks. It’s a super fun event!

Attend the Christmas Market

I won’t lie; ever since moving here, one of our favorite Denver events has been the Denver Christkindl Market . It’s free to attend, though it can get quite crowded. We recommend going as early as possible in the day to avoid the long lines for food!

It’s held annually in December (sometimes starting in late November) leading up to Christmas . As one of the best free things to do in Denver at night (and during the holiday months), admission is free, but you will have to pay if you want to try any of the food.

I highly recommend trying some schnitzel, Glühwein, or even Spaetzle. Those have been our favorites, and they can’t be beaten! There are also usually some great desserts, too, if you have a bit of a sweet tooth.

Attend the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival

The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is a free-to-watch event that happens every July. In 2022, it was held at Sloan’s Lake Park, which is a short drive from downtown Denver.

At the festival, similar to the Christmas Market, there are paid booths and other happenings. So, you can definitely buy some tasty Asian food if you want to, or just enjoy watching the boats along the river.

Visit The Source

One of the more unique places to visit in Denver is The Source . It’s technically a hotel but has a market hall, too. It’s free to visit and walk around the interior, which has a super fun industrial vibe to it.

Of course, you can again purchase anything if you want to. There are many places to eat and shop, but our personal favorite is a BBQ place called smōk. This restaurant truly serves up some of the best BBQ in Denver that we’ve ever had, and it’s so underrated!

Go hiking in Chautauqua Park

If you’re visiting Denver with a car, take the quick trip over to Boulder to hike the Flatirons. This is completely free to do, and it’s one of the most popular hiking spots in the area. It’s also a really easy way to visit the outdoors near Denver without heading all the way to RMNP.

There are lots of different trails here, so you can make the route as long or as short as you want to be. Keep in mind that parking is sometimes limited, so you’ll want to plan on having a bit of an extra walk from your car.

Tour Great Divide Brewery

Obviously one of the best things to do in Denver is to try some of the local beer. If you’re visiting on a budget, though, you can still learn more about the brewery scene by going on a free tour at Great Divide Brewery .

The brewery has been open since 1994, and you do have to be 16 or older to go on the tour. The tours are also limited to only ten people, so try to reserve your spot in advance to make sure you don’t miss out.

See the animals in the Denver Zoo (on a free day!)

While visiting the Denver Zoo is normally a paid excursion, there are certain days of the year when you can visit for free. This can be a great activity if you’re visiting Denver with kids or if you just want to learn more about animals!

You can check out the latest free dates for the Denver Zoo here on their website.

Attend the Denver Parade of Lights

One of the best free activities in the Mile High City for the holidays is to attend the Denver Parade of Lights! This is an annual event that the whole city shows up for. Enjoy watching a parade at night that’s all lit up; it’s truly fun for all ages.

Note that you’ll definitely want to pack for the weather. Winter temperatures in Denver in the winter are seriously no joke!

Visit Denver Central Market

Denver Central Market is one of the cool, trendy food halls in the city that you can visit. It’s located in RiNo, an area known for its street art. The food hall is filled with tons of restaurants, so you can buy some food if you want to.

However, even if you just want to walk through, it’s super fun. We always bring our friends and family here when they visit because we love it so much. There are also tons of great Instagram spots in RiNo, and the market is definitely one of them.

Go on a free walking tour

If you’re new to the city of Denver, consider booking a free walking tour! We did one way back when we first moved here in 2020, and it was a great introduction to the city. Plus, you’ll normally get paired with a guide who really knows their stuff.

Note that while the tour is free, a reservation is normally required, no matter who you book through. You’ll also want to give a tip to your guide at the end of the tour to thank them for it.

I’ve done a tour with Denver Walking Tours when my family visited and can highly recommend them!

Catch a movie in the park

Some of the parks in Denver will host free movie nights throughout the summer months! This can be a great way to get outdoors without leaving the city and it’s particularly a fun thing to do among families visiting the area.

Drive through the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge

One of the hidden gems in Denver is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge . This is completely free to visit, though you will need a car. With a 30-minute drive, you can explore this area of Denver while seeing all types of animals, including bison.

While you won’t always have the best of luck (we’ve visited a few times and only saw the bison super far in the distance), it sure is fun when you get to see them up close!

Attend the Cherry Creek Arts Festival

All art lovers should consider going to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival ! During this event, there are normally more than 200 different exhibitors showcasing work and selling items. Plus, there’s normally great food, too.

You can check out the next dates for the festival on their website, linked above.

Take in the view from Lookout Mountain

The tallest mountain by Golden is Lookout Mountain! So, as you can imagine, it offers truly one of the best views that you can get.

To get the view, you can either hike to the top of it or drive up; the choice is yours. Keep in mind that the drive is beautiful, but if you’re not a fan of heights, you may want to close your eyes until you get to the top!

Go on a peaceful walk in one of Denver’s many parks

Denver County is home to more than 200 different parks, so there are truly so many green spaces. Some of the most peaceful walking trails can be found within these parks.

Seriously, just choose any of them and go on a walk. A lot of these are hidden gems, and you never know what you might find! They are especially tranquil in the early morning when you’ll mostly only find locals walking their dogs.

Hike in Garden of the Gods

A great place to go if you have a car is to head slightly south to Colorado Springs and check out Garden of the Gods . I like to say if you can’t make it out to Moab from Denver, Garden of the Gods is a good option because you can still experience the red rocks and it’s a much closer drive.

It’s completely free to visit and is filled with different walking/hiking trails that you can do. There are simple, easy walks or more difficult ones. My favorite is the Palmer, Buckskin-Charley, Niobrara, and Bretag Trail Loop . It’s long but has great views.

Check out the street art in RiNo

One of the coolest parts of the city is RiNo, and truly, it’s because it hasn’t been super overrun by tourists yet. Often, the tourists will be chilling at the bars downtown, and you’ll find all the locals hanging out in RiNo or River North.

This neighborhood is one of the trendiest and is filled with tons of street art. It’s super fun to just walk around the neighborhood and see what you’ll stumble upon. A good starting point is right at Denver Central Market!

Browse the city with Denver Story Trek

Though it may seem a bit touristy, one of the fun Denver activities for free is to explore the city with Denver Story Trek. This is a tour that will take you around the city on your own, and you can listen in or read about each landmark that you visit on their website .

Go to a museum on a free entrance day

As I sort of referenced before, there are quite a few free entrance days throughout the year. These are at a lot of the museums throughout the city, and it can be a great opportunity to learn for free if you happen to be visiting during one of them.

Some of the museums with free entrance days include the Children’s Museum of Denver , Colorado Railroad Museum , and the Denver Art Museum . The Denver Zoo and Denver Botanic Gardens also have free entrance days.

Visit the Denver Skate Park

Do you like skateboarding? Or at least watching people skateboard while you relax? Then you’ll want to head to the Denver Skate Park. It’s one of the coolest free things to do in Denver. The skate park is pretty big and there are always people here showing off some pretty epic moves.

While you’re in the area, be sure to head over to Recess or Happy Camper to grab a bite to eat! These are some of the truly best places to eat in Denver.

Check out Denver’s food halls

While a few food halls were mentioned on this list, like The Source and Denver Central Market, there are even more throughout the city that you should try to find! Some of our favorites are Milk Market right in LoDo and Stanley Marketplace .

You don’t even have to buy anything at these food halls to enjoy them. They’re so incredibly fun to walk through, and each has its own unique style!

See the beautiful art in the Clyfford Still Museum

Another great museum with free days is the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver. They have free days throughout the year where you can go and enjoy the art at no extra cost!

These dates are often on the weekend, but not always, so you’ll want to check their website. On average, there’s one free date a month.

As the name suggests, this museum is mostly dedicated to the artwork of Clyfford Still!

Check out the Santa Fe Art District

One of the great outdoor free things to do in Denver is to head to the trendy Santa Fe Art District ! This area is filled with colorful buildings, restaurants, galleries, and more. For a fun time, be sure to attend one of the First Friday Art Walks.

Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

The closest national park in Colorado to Denver is Rocky Mountain National Park . While it’s normally not free to enter, they do have free days throughout the year, normally on MLK Day and the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, among others.

The park normally announces its free days at the beginning of the year, so you may have to do your due diligence, but if you visit on one of those days, there’s no extra cost!

Attend the St Patrick’s Day Parade

Every year, one of the most fun parades to attend in Denver is the St Patrick’s Day Parade . It takes place downtown and is completely free to attend, though you may want to get there early to make sure you can snag a spot to watch.

After, if you do want to spend some money, do some bar hopping in LoDo or RiNo!

Tour Hammond’s Candy Factory

Yes, you can literally go on a candy factory tour near Denver! Stop by Hammond’s Candy Factory and learn all about how their candy is made on a free tour. If you’re a candy fan, this is one of the free things to do in Denver that you won’t want to miss out on.

The tours are limited to 45 people and run pretty often. They do recommend making a reservation to make sure they save a spot for you.

See the exhibits at the Colorado Music Hall of Fame

If you’re already visiting Red Rocks, be sure to swing by the Colorado Music Hall of Fame . It’s located at the trading post there and is completely free to visit. Any music fan will love perusing the exhibits!

This is different than the musical exhibit on-location at Red Rocks and focuses primarily on Colorado musicians. It normally takes around 45 minutes or so to fully explore and peruse all that the museum has to offer.

Walk around Larimer Square

For a more historic part of the city, head to Larimer Square. It’s located right off of 16th Street Mall, so you could easily explore both places in the same afternoon. Larimer Square is essentially only one block, but it’s filled with tons of character.

This is the oldest square in the city and is often referred to as one of Denver’s historic districts. The buildings haven’t changed since they were first built a few hundred years ago. The street is filled with great restaurants, and there’s tons of outdoor seating!

Plus, the square is often all decorated for some occasion or another.

Go on a scenic drive

There are so many scenic drives in the Denver area, so if you’re feeling up for it, go on one!

There are many to choose from, but some popular ones include the Mount Evans Byway, Peak to Peak Byway, and the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway. Pack yourself a lunch and some snacks and prepare to be wowed by Colorado’s natural beauty.

FAQ: Things to do in Denver for Free

What are some free activities to do in denver.

Denver is full of free activities, including exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens, taking a walk around City Park, or visiting one of the many public art installations.

Are there any free attractions in Denver?

Yes! There are several attractions that offer free admission throughout the year. These include the Denver Art Museum, Clyfford Still Museum, and Molly Brown House Museum.

Is there any way to explore Denver for free?

Absolutely! You can explore downtown Denver on foot by walking along 16th Street Mall and looking at the incredible architecture or window-shopping.

Final Thoughts: Free Things to Do in Denver

With so many free things to do in Denver, it can be tough to pick just one! But regardless of what you choose, you’re sure to have a great time and experience all that the city has to offer.

So take some time this week or weekend and explore something new — it doesn’t have to cost you a ton. Enjoy your adventure!

Want to read more? Check out these articles:

• 10 Delectable Spots for Afternoon Tea in Denver
• 7 Best Places to go Apple Picking Near Denver
• How to Have the Perfect 1 Day in Denver
• 61 Best Things to do in Denver CO

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After moving to Denver in 2020, KP & Jessie absolutely fell in love with the beauty of the city (and the entire state of Colorado). Together, they're always seeing more of what Colorado has to offer. They love exploring, going on hikes, and trying tasty foods! When they're not traveling, they can be found watching the latest season of Love Island or hanging out with their cat.

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The 12 Best Free Things to Do in Colorado

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Maybe the best things in life really are free. 

If you are traveling on a budget, there are plenty of fun things to do that don't cost a dime. Exploring Colorado's free city parks and trails is a given, whether on bike, foot, horseback or snowshoe during the winter. 

But there are also many other freebies that you probably don't know about, such as opportunities to get free beer and whiskey, dance to free live jazz music, see free movies or even attend famous museums without opening your wallet. 

Free Things to Do

• Visit the famous Denver Art Museum:  Although this museum regularly has an entry, it waves the cost on the first Saturday of every month. Learn more about the Free First Saturdays on the Denver Art Museum 's website. 
• See animals at the Denver Zoo:  Yes, you can visit the Denver Zoo for free occasionally, too. Kids 2 and younger always get in for free. 
• Visit one of the seven National Wildlife Refuges:  These are always free. Consider them a local zoo — without walls. See wildlife in its natural habitat. If you're lucky, you may spot a moose, bald eagle or bison. 
• Tour a brewery — and drink free beer:  Colorado loves its beer, and it loves sharing it, too. Here are 10 free brewery tours throughout Colorado , including the famous Odell and New Belgium. 
• Or swig spirits:  Beer not your thing? Colorado's got your back. We are home to a growing number of local distilleries, and many are happy to walk you through a free tour, complete with tastings. One not to miss: Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey .
• Join the First Friday Art Walk:  The art districts in Denver come to life during the popular Art Walk events, which often feature live music, food, parties, entertainment, demonstrations and, of course, great art. 
• See a movie — in the park: While many outdoor movies are inexpensive, you can find a handful of totally free ones, too. One of the best bets are the free flicks in Civic Center Park , at an event organized by the Civic Center Conservancy, among others. Best of all, these movies are bike-in movies, so hop on your cruiser and you don't even have to pay for gas or parking. 
• Go to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science:  This museum is one of Denver's best attractions for families, and you can attend at no cost during its regular free days . Members get into the museum for free anytime, too. 
• Take a picture at exactly one mile high: A quintessential Colorado visitor activity is simple: Visit the state Capitol, climb to the 13th step and snap a pic. Here, you'll find the marker of 5,280 feet in elevation. While you're there, take a free tour of the gold-domed Capitol building.
• Dance the night away: Enjoy free live jazz music at the City Park Bandstand and Pavilion every Sunday night in June and July. Swing dance under the stars. 
• Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park:  Although Colorado's flagship park usually charges an entrance, it occasionally opens its gates to let visitors come in for free. Explore the trails, hike through the wildflowers, pop up a tent and keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep along the way. This park is one of Colorado's most incredible destinations year-round. 
• Tour the town by foot:  Let your curiosity guide you along the 16th Street Mall and beyond — or sign up for one of the family-friendly, educational  Denver Free Walking Tours . A trained guide takes you to see Denver's top landmarks, offers expert recommendations on what to do and where to go and all they request is participants tip whatever you feel the experience was worth. 

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Free Things To Do This Spring In Denver

Oh, spring, how we adore you. Come enjoy the glory of the season at some of The Mile High City's greatest attractions and events for free. Plus, take advantage of  great hotel rates . 

Free Festivals & Events

Civic center eats.

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Civic Center Park Every Wednesday and Thursday From May through September, Civic Center Eats transforms Civic Center Park into a lunchtime extravaganza with Denver's best food and fashion trucks and live music. It's your chance to savor a variety of cuisines while supporting our city's small local business scene and the Civic Center Conservancy's mission to restore and enhance Civic Center Park, Denver's only National Historic Landmark.

Free Museum Days

Four mile historic park free days.

WHEN: Every third Sunday of the month WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park  Take a trip back in time to Denver's pioneer past at Four Mile Historic Park, nestled on the bank of Cherry Creek. Stop by for a free afternoon of tours, historic demonstrations and more on the third Sunday of each month.

Museo de las Americas Free First Fridays

WHEN: Every first Friday of the month WHERE: Museo de las Americas  Museo de las Americas is dedicated to educating people about the arts and cultures of Latinidad in the Americas and is the premier Latin American art museum in the region. The museum offers free admission every First Friday, no tickets needed.

Penny Saturdays at MCA Denver

WHEN: Every first Saturday of the month WHERE: MCA Denver Okay, so it's not technically  free . But every first Saturday of the month, Colorado residents can explore Museum of Contemporary Art Denver for just $0.01. 

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Denver Museum of Nature & Science Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, a maze filled with treasures of the earth: dinosaurs, dioramas, space exhibits, science experiments, a digital planetarium, an IMAX theatre and touring shows. 

Clyfford Still Museum Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum Enjoy nine beautiful galleries of Clyfford Still’s art, historic photos and letters from the Clyfford Still Archives, an interactive timeline, dozens of videos and books and a pair of tranquil outdoor terraces. 

Denver Art Museum Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Denver Art Museum  Explore the Denver Art Museum's galleries showcasing a world-famous Indigenous art collection, as well as traditional and contemporary art from around the world. And admission is ALWAYS free for youth ages 18 and under, every day.

Denver Botanic Gardens Free Days: York Street Location

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens   Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the middle of the city, with 45 different gardens (some 33,000 plants), as well as one of the nation's top 10 conservatories. Relax in the Japanese Garden, climb through the Rock Alpine Garden and explore the Mordecai Children's Garden. 

Denver Botanic Gardens Free Days: Chatfield Farms Location

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms, Littleton Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms is a picturesque nature preserve among the grasslands, ponds and cottonwood banks of Deer Creek. Facilities include nature trails, a wildlife observation area, display gardens, educational exhibits, a historical farm, a 19th-century one-room schoolhouse, working beehives and picnic areas. 

Hotel de Paris Museum Day

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Hotel de Paris, Georgetown Celebrate the 69th anniversary of Hotel de Paris Museum with food, drink and entertainment. Leon Littlebird will be on hand to smudge the hotel to protect it for the coming year. A ribbon-cutting of the museum's newly renovated landing kitchen will also take place.

History Colorado Center Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: History Colorado Center History Colorado Center showcases powerful stories, honoring Colorado’s treasured memories and vibrant communities through exhibitions and programs. The center is also home to the State Historic Preservation Office and Stephen H. Hart Research Center — the portal to History Colorado’s more than 200,000 artifacts. 

Colorado Railroad Museum Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden Travel back in time at this 15-acre railyard and museum in nearby  Golden, Colorado . The  Colorado Railroad Museum  features more than 100 engines, cabooses and coaches, a garden railway and a library and roundhouse restoration facility with working turntable.

Denver Zoo Free Days

WHEN:  TBA 2024 WHERE: Denver Zoo Denver Zoo, located in  City Park , spans over 75 acres and is home to more than 4,000 animals, including rare amur leopards, okapi, black rhinoceros, elephants, vampire bats, orangutans, Komodo dragons and more! Note: To provide the best experience for all guests, Denver Zoo is offering a limited number of tickets for each Free Day, using an online lottery system. Anyone who wants to attend a Free Day must register online during the open lottery period for a chance to obtain up to five vouchers for its corresponding Free Day.

Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave Free Days

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave, Golden Buffalo Bill Cody remains the ultimate icon of the American West. One of his final wishes was to be buried on Lookout Mountain above Denver. Lookout Mountain Park offers an engaging museum dedicated to the life and times of Buffalo Bill and his internationally known Wild West show, a curio shop and café located in the historic log Pahaska Tepee building, short hiking trails, a picnic area featuring one of the oldest picnic shelters in the Denver Mountain Parks system, and sweeping vistas from mountain to plain.

Center for Colorado Women's History

WHEN: TBA 2024 WHERE: Center for Colorado Women's History   Celebrate International Women's Day with a visit to the Center for Colorado Women's History. Guided tours every half hour from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Free Outdoor Fun

Red rocks park & amphitheatre.

Carved from towering red rock monuments, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is one of the world's most renowned concert venues. When there's no concert, the free Visitor Center has a museum and Performers' Hall of Fame, while the surrounding park offers hiking trails that weave in, around and over the colorful red rocks. 

Lariat Loop Byway

Retrace the motoring adventures of the early 1920s and experience the thrill of foothills exploration at the dawn of the Age of Motorcars on the Lariat Loop, a 40-mile scenic circle in the foothills west of Denver. The Lariat Loop takes motorists to several popular attractions, including the  Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave , the  Colorado Railroad Museum  and the  Mother Cabrini Shrine . 

Dinosaur Ridge

See some dinos — or what's left of them, anyway. Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison features famous Jurassic dinosaur bones, such as Stegosaurus and Apatosaurus, discovered in 1877, and Cretaceous dinosaur footprints. A guidebook is available for use on self-guided tours. 

Littleton Museum

Travel back in time at the Littleton Museum and get a glimpse into Colorado's pioneer past. Located on 39 acres in Littleton , the museum consists of two living history farms (one from the 1860s and one from the 1890s), with a working farm, a blacksmith shop and more than 40,000 historic Colorado artifacts.

Plains Conservation Center

The Plains Conservation Center in Aurora helps students and adults grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural history of Colorado through a variety of educational programs managed by Denver Botanic Gardens in cooperation with the City of Aurora. It's always free to visit and hike the trails, explore the visitor center and check out the tipis and homestead village. There is a fee to attend any guided programs.

Garden of the Gods

Located just 60 miles from Denver, the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs features gigantic 500-foot-high red sandstone rock monuments at the base of Pikes Peak. 

Denver Skatepark 

The expansive Denver Skatepark — one of the most renowned skate parks in the country — is filled with bowls for all levels of skating skill. Admission is free. Helmets are required.

Denver Street Art

Denver street artists have been busy brightening (and enlightening) the urban landscape for decades by making canvases of the city’s alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, garage doors and storefronts. Grab your camera and take a stroll past some of the city's favorite murals. 

Farmers' Markets

Denver may be a major city, but there are hundreds of nearby farms across the Front Range, meaning there's no shortage of fresh produce to fill The Mile High City's multiple farmers' markets. You'll also find humanely-raised meats, baked goods, prepared foods, fresh flowers and artisanal personal care products, and many markets also include live music, food vendors and flea markets. Most markets begin in May and extend into the fall. 

Denver's City Parks

No matter where you find yourself in The Mile High City, you’re likely only a few steps away from a lush and relaxing green space. Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to explore Denver's more than 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways, as well as an additional 14,000 acres of spectacular mountain parks in neighboring counties that are maintained by the City and County of Denver.

Lesser-Known, Hidden-Gem Parks

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to have a picnic, take in great views or experience a different side of the city, check out these lesser-known Denver parks.

How to Explore the South Platte River by Bike

Take a two-wheeled tour through the heart of the city along this beautiful river. You'll cruise by some of the city's biggest attractions. 

Denver's Best Urban Hikes

Denver is a city with boundless outdoor fun and has an ideal location next to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. While The Mile High City is conveniently close to major peaks for hiking, there's actually no need to head into the mountains when Denver's regional trail system encompasses hundreds of miles for all ages and abilities to explore. 

Outdoor Concerts

The Mile High City is filled with music, and during the spring and summer, many of the outdoor concerts are free for all, including City Park Jazz, Concerts in Central Park and many of the shows at Levitt Pavilion.

How to Explore the Colorado Trail in Waterton Canyon

Many people think that Denver’s prettiest, closest and most accessible bit of mountain scenery is Waterton Canyon. This is the start of the famous Colorado Trail, one of the great long-distance hikes (or mountain bike rides) of the Rocky Mountains.

Pet-Friendly Denver

Denver is home to dozens of pet-friendly activities and destinations, including dog-friendly hotels and dog parks. Find the best on-leash and off-leash fun for your best friend.

More Free Attractions & Tours

First friday art walks.

WHEN: Every First Friday WHERE: Denver's Art Districts Discover Denver's thriving creative community during a First Friday celebration, held every first Friday of the month. Galleries in Denver's  creative art districts  stay open late. 

Ski Factory Tours

WHERE: Meier Skis Meier Skis  offers two tour options to learn about how thry turn trees into skis. Barstool tours of the World's First Craft Skiery are offered anytime they're open. Grab a seat at the bar made from ski core wood with windows looking onto the factory floor. They'll pour you a complimentary local beverage while a friendly skitender explains the ski-building process. For a more in-depth look, visit at 5:30 p.m. (just make sure to make a reservation first !) Labor Day through April. Then, you can go behind the scenes and learn about each step in the ski-making process.

Free Denver Public Art Tours

Denver Arts & Venues   invites art and architecture lovers to participate in free public art tours on foot, bike and scooter. These free guided tours focus on small segments of the city’s public art collection and give citizens and visitors the opportunity to venture inside venues such as the  Ellie Caulkins Opera House   and  Colorado Convention Center  to view works and hear the intimate details of their creation and installation.

Colorado State Capitol Tour

Tour the magnificent, gold-domed Colorado Capitol Building. Stand at exactly a mile high on the steps, see Allen True's beautiful murals, listen in on the Colorado General Assembly, and check out the gorgeous Rose Onyx wainscoting. Free tours are available on the hour 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.

U.S. Mint Tour

Learn how to make money! The U.S. Mint can produce more than 50 million coins a day, each one stamped with a little "D" for Denver. Free guided tours show every step in the process of turning a dull, blank, metal slug into shiny pocket change. Tours are available Monday through Thursday (excluding Federal holidays). All visitors must be 7 years and older. See  the Mint's  latest policies. 

Denver Story Trek

Ever wonder about the stories of the places you pass? On Denver Story Trek you'll explore the stories behind Denver's historic landscapes and landmarks on an interactive, self-guided tour of the city. It's simple to use and free!

Great Divide Brewery Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Denver's craft beer world on a free tour at the Great Divide Brewery downtown or the Great Divide Barrel Bar in RiNo. Tours at both locations take place at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., Mon.–Fri. and each hour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. 

Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Housed in  Empower Field at Mile High  (home of the  Denver Broncos ), the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Museum honors the legacies of The Mile High City's greatest sports heroes and features the Gallery of Legends, a "Great Moments in Colorado Sports" exhibit and a section celebrating the achievements of girls and women in Colorado Sports.

Denver Central Library

Denver Central Library has an impressive art gallery on the seventh floor. The library is best known, perhaps, for its Western History Collection, which covers the earliest explorations, Spanish land grants, Native American history, the gold rush era and the present day with a particular focus on the Rocky Mountain West.

Denver Beer Trail

The Denver Beer Trail provides a sampling of Denver’s top microbreweries. Follow the suggested routes or pick and choose from the list of featured breweries.

Rockmount Ranch Wear

Browse the racks and enjoy the free museum at Lower Downtown's historic Rockmount Ranch Wear, the originator of the western snap-button shirt. The walls are adorned with photos of the many celebs who have worn Rockmount shirts, including Eric Clapton, Robert Redford and Elvis Presley. 

Tattered Cover Book Store

The Tattered Cover  is one of the nation's most well-known independent bookstores with 10 locations across the state. It often hosts free signings by some of the literary world's most famous authors. They also offer free Wi-Fi if you want to surf the net while you're there.

Fall & Winter

Spring & summer, plan your getaway, basecamp denver, attractions, arts & culture, family friendly, day trips & around colorado, sports & recreation, health & wellness, itineraries, booking widget added to footer panel.

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Colorado

Best free things to do in colorado.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Five Points
• Central Business District
• Capitol Hill
• Cherry Creek
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Garden of the Gods

2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

3. Denver Union Station

4. Telluride Mountain Village Gondola

5. United States Air Force Academy

6. Hanging Lake Trail

7. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

8. Main Street

9. Pearl Street Mall

10. Independence Pass

11. Historic Downtown Durango

12. Skyline Drive

13. Colorado Chautauqua: Park

14. Million Dollar Highway

15. Red Rock Canyon

16. New Belgium Brewing

17. Flatirons

18. 16th Street Mall

19. Colorado State Capitol

20. Treasure Falls

21. Helen Hunt Falls

22. Grand Mesa

23. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

24. Manitou Springs Incline

25. Lookout Mountain

26. Old Colorado City Historic District

27. Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park

28. Coors Brewery

29. The John Denver Sanctuary

30. Boreas Pass Road

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9 Famous Colorado Craft Beers

Alongside abundant sunshine, world-class skiing, and legal weed, craft beer is an integral part of Colorado’s cultural DNA. But in the context of its storied history, the state’s relationship with craft beer is relatively new, save for a once small-scale brewing operation led by a German immigrant named Adolph Coors that started in 1873. Colorado’s …

9 Famous Colorado Craft Beers Read More

Things to do at Colorado’s Royal Gorge

Located less than fifteen miles from downtown Cañon City, the Royal Gorge is an impressive site known for its dramatic cliffs, breathtaking views, and epic attractions. Home to outdoor activities of all types including ziplining, a via ferrata, whitewater rafting, and amusement rides, the Royal Gorge is a great addition to any Colorado itinerary. What …

Things to do at Colorado’s Royal Gorge Read More

Where to See Moose in Colorado

Large, majestic animals that are deceivingly hard to spot, moose are a popular animal for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists to hope to see on a trip to Colorado. Weighing up to 1,200 pounds with a shoulder height of up to 6 feet, these impressive animals are a treat to witness in the wild. Approximately 3,000 …

Where to See Moose in Colorado Read More

What is Colorado is known for?

Colorado is known for a lot of things, but most of the world probably thinks of stunning mountain scenery when they think of the state. But in addition to the high country, the Centennial State is famous for lots of other things ranging from important cultural institutions and contributions to legal weed to great weather. …

What is Colorado is known for? Read More

Uncover Colorado Travel Guide

From world-class ski resorts to primitive natural hot springs, Colorado caters to everyone. And since there are so many sunny days to see it all, we created this free online Colorado travel guide to help you out.

Use our travel guide to plan activities , events , towns , hotels , restaurants , and transportation . We also showcase made-in-Colorado products , perfect for that gift or souvenir from your favorite state. They are either entirely made locally, partially made, or just the company is based here. Our travel blog is updated regularly with valuable posts on all things CO.

Are you excited about an upcoming Colorado trip? Let our colorful online guide be your itinerary assistant. We publish original blog posts and expand our travel guide pages regularly. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram , to stay updated on the latest shenanigans.

Love to travel in Colorado?

Join our community of thousands of Colorado adventurists! Receive a monthly roundup of the latest posts, fun festivals, rare deals, and travel tips. Discover possibly the most life-changing, radically great stories + free guide on free attractions in CO:

Things To Do This Month

Look for fun things to do this month and upcoming ones. Plan and make yourself an adventure to go on. Each month offers activities, especially terrific for its time of year.

Things to do in March in Colorado

Things to do in February in Colorado

Things to do in January in Colorado

Activities in colorado.

From the epic highs of the Rockies to the rolling prairies and bluffs of the east, Colorado is a land of contrast and opportunities for adventure. This is a look at all the favorite activities available here, such as skiing, hiking, visiting a haunted ghost town or soaking in natural hot springs.

12 Best RV Campgrounds in Colorado

Things to do at Colorado’s Pikes Peak

11 Cool Colorado Springs Attractions

Events in colorado.

Famous annual events like the X-Games, Telluride Film Festival and National Western Stock Show bring fans from all the country and world. There are a wide array of festival types, including Art, Beer, Film, Food, Heritage, Holiday, Music, Sport and Wildlife.

8 Great Springtime Colorado Festivals

Upcoming Spring Festivals in Colorado

Ride the Colorado Rails this Winter

Lodging in colorado.

Everybody needs a place to lay their head at night when visiting a new place. This is a curated look at Colorado’s top hotels, cabins, vacation rentals, B&Bs, and other unique accommodations. Each one is clean, comfortable and special enough to provide the memory and home base you desire.

What is Colorado Springs known for?

11 Best Ski-in/Ski-Out Hotels in Colorado

Stay Year-Round in Colorado’s 10th Mountain Backcountry Huts

Towns in colorado.

Hundreds of Colorado communities, towns and cities exist around the state; along with sixty-four counties. Some are growing fast in population, others, are not so much, but overall Colorado is booming. There are so many charming places to visit with welcoming locals and unique spots to discover.

The Cheapest Towns to Live in Colorado

Amazing Free Activities All Year ‘Round Colorado Springs

18 Best Long Weekend Trips in Colorado

Dining in colorado.

We all gotta eat, so might as well make it a fun memory. These iconic Colorado restaurants are worthy of your tastebuds. Experience local delicacies like Palisade peaches and Pueblo green chile, available at markets during the season, or visit one of the state’s many home-grown restaurants.

16 of Colorado’s Most Popular Breweries

Mushrooms Found in Colorado––Deadly, Psychedelic, and Everything in Between

7 Best Breweries in Colorado Springs

Transportation in colorado.

Colorado’s public transportation is improving every year. Hop on a train from Denver International Airport and get all the way to downtown Denver, or continue to California via an Amtrak if you wanted. Methods include airports, buses, bikes, trains, taxis, ride-hailing, car rentals and private shuttles.

41 “Welcome to Colorful Colorado” Signs

The Continental Divide through Colorado

15 Winter Driving Tips for Colorado’s Rocky Mountains

Brands in colorado.

Something about the dry mountain air and inspirational Rocky Mountain peaks fuels innovation. A myriad of companies has gotten their start here. This is a look at some local brands that at least are based in Colorado, and some even make their products within the borders.

9 Colorado Ski & Snowboard Companies

The Top Wine Shops around Denver

13 Wineries & Cideries near Boulder

Colorful colorado’s top spring travel guide.

Spring is a terrific time of year in Colorado. By the third week in March, most locals are ready for spring and the coming heat. Go for a spectacular hike or visit far-off hot springs. There’s so much to do and see in Colorado and spring is a special season full of change. Make use of the state parks  during the weekdays for more seclusion.

After the spring equinox, on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024, spring is officially underway. There are warming temps in the Rockies and snow that’s melting and fueling the rivers in the high country. Once you visit, it’s easy to see why most locals cherish their springtimes, it’s an unmatched wonderland. This travel guide shows you all the most popular pastimes for your itinerary planning.

Our digital publication highlights the most popular pastimes for your itinerary planning. Sort by tourist attractions or outdoor recreation .

It’s spring! Time to toast the season and savor the changing weather. Find top things to do this season. While the warming weather is upon us, take advantage of these fun activities to enjoy.

Probably Colorado’s Best Travel Blog

Colorado’s a broad topic with so much beauty to uncover. We publish exciting, new articles on our travel blog throughout the week. Topics range from the best ski towns or hot springs, to how to find free camping. There is so much to see and do in Colorado that you’ll never be short on adventure.

Stay tuned for regular updates on our Colorado travel blog. The Colorado Travel Blog showcases local: attractions, recreation, entertainment, lodging, dining, transportation, companies, and everything in between. Learn some fun facts about Colorado . We have a talented writing team of regular contributors from across the state, and beyond. Each one has a knack for sharing the travel wisdom that they’ve learned.

Iconic adventures are just around the corner in Colorado. Be inspired to get out there and try something new, like tent camping in the Rockies, or spending the night at a historic hotel. All year round you can find a special event or reason to visit a particular Colorado gem. This spring, try something you’ve never done before and cross something off your bucket list.

Visiting Colorado? Plan with our free trip resources

Our complimentary travel resources cover a wide range of Colorado vacation planning. Find exciting things to do, towns to visit, hotels to stay in, public transportation, and restaurant recommendations. Get started here…

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• Last Updated On
• June 23, 2023

35 Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO — Places to Go for Free!

Nothing beats a freebie.

And, in Colorado Springs, you’ll find plenty of free activities that will make your trip budget-friendly.

From scenic trails to museums, there’s no shortage of free things to do in Colorado Springs.

With an elevation of 6,035 feet, this city near Pikes Peak also offers stunning mountain views at each turn.

So, start planning your wallet-friendly journey to “Little London” by checking out our tips below.

1. Garden of the Gods

1805 N 30th St Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 634-6666

A public park, Garden of the Gods, officially became a National Natural Landmark in 1971.

Why We Recommend This Free Activity

Garden of the Gods serves as one of the free places to go in Colorado Springs.

Be prepared to sweat while traversing the 21-mile trail.

But don’t worry because these pathways are friendly even to beginners.

All year long, this place welcomes guests who need a soothing experience.

Stay on official trails to preserve the pristine beauty of this place.

If you have pets, just make sure to put them on a leash to keep them guided.

Remember to pick up any waste to contribute to efforts to keep this park clean.

2. United States Air Force Academy

2346 Academy Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80840 (719) 333-2025

Since 1954, this service academy has honed cadets who want to enter space and air forces.

Touring around the US Air Force Academy provides free fun in Colorado Springs.

In particular, fans of space adventures can learn a lot just by walking around the facility.

Additionally, this place offers vibrant mountain views that will take your breath away.

Snap those Instagram-worthy photos to make the most of your visit.

Head to the Visitor Center to delight yourself with overlooking views of the academy.

While you’re there, pick up brochures to help you during your self-guided tour.

Be sure not to miss the Planetarium, where you can watch free public shows.

3. Red Rock Canyon

Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (505) 266-0550

Red Rock Canyon stands out as a rust-colored geologic formation in Colorado Springs.

Anyone up for free activities in Colorado Springs will love to check this one out.

At Red Rock Canyon, the public can get the chance to hike, bike, and enjoy nature.

It also provides designated areas where dogs can walk around.

No wonder, then, why pet lovers love coming to this place.

Read about the weather forecast before coming to prepare for your hike well.

Those planning to have a picnic in the open space can freely do so.

Just remember to leave no trace to keep nature clean.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cliff House at Pikes Peak

Also See: Free Things to Do in Denver

4. North Cheyenne Cañon Park

2120 S Cheyenne Canon Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 385-6086

This park, established in 1885, serves as one of the oldest natural grounds in Colorado.

If you need a breather, North Cheyenne Cañon Park is perfect for you.

It features more than a thousand acres of trails that will soothe your soul.

Beyond those, the visitor centers also prepare free events in Colorado Springs.

That’s why locals and tourists can come over at any given month of the year.

Stop by the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center for an introduction to the park.

Dubbed the Gateway, this place hands out brochures to guide every guest.

It also provides interactive exhibits and seasonal programs ideal for all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Colorado Springs South, CO

5. Seven Bridges Trail

N Cheyenne Canyon Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 685-5089

Seven Bridges Trail covers 5.78 miles of roundtrip trail set in North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

Do you want to level up your hiking experience?

Try embarking on the Seven Bridges Trail for a moderately difficult trip.

It has an elevation gain of 1,597 feet, which can be pretty tiring for some people.

But, the sight of the mountain stream will leave you speechless.

Consider scheduling your hike anytime from March to November.

That way, you wouldn’t need to worry about thick snowpacks during your visit.

Bring lots of water to stay hydrated throughout your two-hour hiking adventure.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Villa Motel at Manitou Springs

Related: Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO

6. Helen Hunt Falls

4075 N Cheyenne Canyon Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 633-5701

Helen Hunt Falls is a 35-foot waterfall that tourists visit in North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

No list of free attractions can be complete without this waterfall.

Upon arrival, guests will already feel relaxed due to the sound of cascading waters.

Its appearance shines best in the morning because of the sun’s rays.

Plus, anyone can reach this place easily given its location near the road.

Walk to the bridge atop Helen Hunt Falls to see the place from a bird’s eye view.

In addition, check out the nearby visitor center to see interpretive exhibits while you’re there.

It’s free to enter, but you may purchase gifts if you want anything.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak

7. Old Colorado City Historic District

W Colorado Ave & 24th St Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 344-8537

Old Colorado City, established in 1859, became popular for being the first capital of Colorado.

History buffs list this place as one of the top places on their itinerary.

You’ll find boutique shops, artsy galleries, and historic buildings along the streets.

Many structures feature red bricks that make the old-school feel more authentic.

It’s an iconic district that will help people appreciate history even more.

Ahead of your visit, tourists are encouraged to check the list of activities.

Art walks, which happen from April to December, count as one of the events that people love.

Music lovers can drop by the public parks to hear live performances from time to time.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa

8. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

215 S Tejon St Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5990

Set in Alamo Square Park, this place features thousands of items about the past of Pikes Peak.

Tick off another historic property on your list by coming to this museum.

You’ll gain access to documents, photos, and even fine arts without paying anything.

It likewise features archaeological collections that will stimulate your curiosity even further.

Check out this museum for some free things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.

Take the opportunity to join the guided tours for a more informative experience.

You may also want to listen to the lectures given by academics and experts.

After your visit, go to nearby parks to achieve maximum relaxation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown, CO

9. Penrose Heritage Museum

11 Lake Cir Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 577-7065

Penrose Heritage Museum boasts an eclectic collection that includes carriages and racecars.

Tourists who love racing can see over a dozen race cars in this place.

Aside from that, the museum also hosts plenty of carriages that once plied the streets.

It contains relevant information explaining the significance of such items in the past.

As a bonus, visitors can also learn a lot about local and regional history.

Parking won’t be a problem since there’s a nearby garage.

Dedicate at least two hours to seeing all the showcased exhibits throughout the year.

While food isn’t allowed, guests can bring water into the museum premises.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Colorado Springs/I-25 South

Related: Things to Do in Colorado Springs with Kids

10. Palmer Park

3344-3376 Paseo Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 385-5940

At 692 acres, Palmer Park offers a verdant location where people can escape in Colorado.

Palmer Park—the largest in the area—wouldn’t run out of outdoor adventures to offer.

Hiking and jogging are among the top options that many locals and tourists take.

Beginners won’t have to worry since the 25-mile trail is moderately difficult.

Not to mention, this municipal park boasts spectacular sights that will entice everyone.

Wear proper hiking shoes to ensure you won’t slip along the trail.

In addition, you may try horseback riding if you haven’t tried it in the past.

Feel free to bring your pet to this park since there’s a designated dog park, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Colorado Springs Garden Of The Gods

11. Starr Kempf’s Metal Sculptures

2057 Pine Grove Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Starr Kempf was a famous sculptor known for his kinetic metal artworks in Colorado Springs.

Fascinate yourself with large sculptures that move when the wind blows.

Travelers can find this attraction in the garden of Starr Kempf’s former home.

While it’s private property, tourists can still see these creations even from the street.

Anyone would love to see these works of art, given their unique quality.

Stop by this place before coming to North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

It’s ideal to come with a local who knows Kempf’s history and works.

Just be sure not to make too much noise when you visit as a courtesy to the neighborhood.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Colorado Springs Downtown Central, an IHG Hotel

12. Peterson Air & Space Museum

150 E Ent Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80914 (719) 556-4915

Open all year, this museum operates as the oldest aviation museum in the Colorado area.

Most tourists come to this place to see historic aircraft on display.

Some of the oldest items available are the fighter interceptors used in the 1950s.

It also pays tribute to the Medal of Honor recipients through a special park on site.

Check out the Old City Hangar if you want to see the air defense system of North America.

Secure a pass at least two weeks before your visit to have a smooth entry.

Lucky tourists may also meet some military veterans who lead guided tours.

Before leaving, buy a souvenir that you like for a more memorable trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Colorado Springs-Airport

13. Fox Run Regional Park

2110 Stella Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 520-7529

Fox Run Regional Park lines itself among the fan-favorite recreational hubs in El Paso County.

Surround yourself with a lush environment teeming with pine trees.

This park can be friendly to newbies and seasoned hikers with four miles of trails.

It’s also an ideal place to visit if you want to have a picnic with the whole family.

Kids can also make friends on the playground on the site.

Kickstart your day with a quick run around any of the easy loops in the park.

If you run out of water, have no worries because there’s a drinking fountain available.

Make a stop near the lake to take in this place’s calming ambiance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Colorado Springs North Air Force Academy

14. Ivywild School

1604 S Cascade Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 368-6100

Ivywild School was once an educational institution before it became a community center.

Live like a local.

It’s easy to achieve when you come to the Ivywild School.

Most people go to this place to eat and drink, given the number of restaurants available.

Besides, many cheap things to do in Colorado Springs can be found here.

Grab the opportunity to watch free movies when you come in the evening.

Check the online schedule to know what films they will screen.

In addition, consider buying artsy stuff that you can add to your collection.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Colorado Springs Downtown

15. Pulpit Rock Park

1005 Garlock Ln Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 385-5940

Set in Austin Bluffs, the Pulpit Rock soared to fame through its impressive geological formation.

Up for a thrilling challenge?

Consider embarking on a two-hour hike in Pulpit Rock Park.

It’s quite challenging, but the adventure can be just as rewarding.

After all, its elevation of 6,621 feet puts you in a great spot to enjoy lovely views of the Rockies.

Download a copy of the map to stay guided along the trail.

Given the rocky feature, hikers are advised to exercise caution for a safe adventure.

Explore the rest of the Austin Bluffs Open Space afterward to see some animals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Academy Hotel Colorado Springs

16. Upper Gold Camp Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Visitors take the Upper Gold Camp Road for a unique road trip in Colorado Springs.

Nothing beats a scenic road adventure with your best buddies.

Taking the Upper Gold Camp Road can make your trip more memorable.

Along the way, you’d go through several tunnels that hold historical value.

Some visitors also have spooky stories, which you can verify when you visit.

Hit the road when the sun’s up to appreciate the views that await.

Tap a veteran driver because the uphill route can be challenging.

In addition, some portions of the route can only accommodate one vehicle.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Econo Lodge Inn & Suites

17. Bear Creek Nature Center

245 Bear Creek Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 520-6387

Opened in 1976, this institution takes pride in being the first nature center in Colorado.

Develop children’s appreciation of nature while they’re young.

Bear Creek Nature Center offers interactive outdoor programs the kids love.

Most likely, they would also meet wildlife creatures along the natural trails.

Even the adults will find the place breathtaking.

Get a copy of the adventure pack from the nature center to serve as a guide.

Walking can be exhausting for the young, so bring lots of water.

While the trails are easy, it’s important to wear proper hiking shoes for a comfortable trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs

18. Ute Valley Park

1705 Vindicator Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 385-5940

Multiple trails comprise the Ute Valley Park in Colorado Springs for locals and tourists to enjoy.

If you need an easy trail, the six-kilometer trail in this park is a good option.

It’s a typical place where hikers and bikers come together on any day of the week.

Birders also take the time to visit due to the numerous bird species on site.

Most importantly, the scenic views will take your breath away.

If you want to avoid crowding, schedule your hike early in the morning.

It can be accessed throughout the year, but many like it best during the summer.

Stay on the designated trails and leave no trash to maintain the beauty of the place.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Colorado Springs Marriot

19. Bristol Brewing Company

1604 S Cascade Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 633-2555

Set in Ivywild, Bristol Brewing Company is a usual hangout spot in Colorado Springs.

Searching for places where you can drink this weekend?

Include the Bristol Brewing Company among your options near the city center.

It prepares unique craft beverages that will excite your taste buds.

Plus, this brewery even prepares annual events that people highly anticipate.

Take part in Buses at the Brewery for a fun-filled event in this place.

As you enjoy, remember to drink moderately to have a fully fantastic experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kinship Landing

20. America the Beautiful Park

126 Cimino Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5940

America the Beautiful Park functions as another recreational hub completed in 2005.

In this 16.9-acre park, visitors can access many free things in Colorado Springs.

Youngsters can have fun in the Fantasy Playground, which features interactive art pieces.

Many groups also hang out near the fountain to see a 40-feet sculpture called “Continuum”.

Its proximity to the city’s heart makes the park highly favored by many.

Many people usually try roller skating because of the paved path.

If you get hungry, that won’t be a problem since there are food trucks in the park.

Just take your trash before leaving to help keep the nice condition of the place.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Executive Residency Fillmore Inn

21. John Venezia Community Park

3555 Briargate Pkwy Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 385-5940

Set in Briargate, the John Venezia Community Park has been offering recreation since 2017.

Lots of free stuff in Colorado Springs, CO awaits.

In this five-year-old park, one will discover vast open spaces where people run around.

Specifically, kids enjoy the Corral—a playground with shade shelters—for free.

What’s more, the older ones can walk on the loop trails for a fun afternoon exercise.

Let children play at the splash pad to take off the heat in an energizing way.

Just bring extra clothes and a towel so they can still explore the rest of the park after.

Pet owners, meanwhile, can bring their pets for a lovely walk in this community park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Springhill Suites by Marriott Colorado Springs North/Air Force Academy

22. WhirlyBall

3971 Palmer Park Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 637-9999

WhirlyBall is an interactive hub where friends can play and dine in Colorado Springs.

Have you always wanted to try a unique team sport with your friends?

If so, you may want to play WhirlyBall for a combination of basketball, hockey, and lacrosse.

Level up the thrill as you play this affordable game aboard bumper cars.

Alternative games such as bowling are also available for a budget-friendly price.

After playing, it’s normal for everyone to feel hungry.

But you won’t need to look far because there’s an on-site restaurant.

Most cocktails are affordable, so you may want to try them out, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Colorado Springs – First & Main, an IHG Hotel

23. Memorial Park

1605 E Pikes Peak Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80910 (719) 385-5940

Memorial Park features the second-largest skatepark in Colorado at 40,000 square feet.

Take a breather in one of the city’s open spaces.

At Memorial Park, people from all walks of life can come together to enjoy various events.

Large groups can even reserve their spot in the picnic area for an outdoor dining experience.

Its expansive area makes the park a top option for fitness activities.

Avail of public ice skating lessons if you’re interested in trying the sport.

If you’re into fishing, proceed directly to Prospect Lake instead.

You may also enjoy paddleboarding as long as you secure the required permits.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Colorado Springs-Airport, an IHG Hotel

24. New Santa Fe Regional Trail

104 Oakdale Dr Palmer Lake, CO 80133 (719) 520-6375

Spanning 17 miles, this regional trail forms part of the renowned American Discovery Trail.

Colorado boasts plenty of hiking trails to bring out the adventurer in you.

While there are many options, nobody would want to miss the New Santa Fe Regional Trail.

It passes by the Colorado mountains that set the stage for a picturesque sight.

Such kind of beauty would leave you in awe of nature even more.

Have a warm-up before hiking or biking to prepare your body well.

Additionally, patrons urge bikers to use mountain bicycles along the gravel trail.

If you get hungry, you may stop at any of the eateries you like in Monument.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: My Place Hotel-Colorado Springs,CO

25. Acacia Park

115 E Platte Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5940

Set downtown, Acacia Park earned popularity for being the first park in Colorado Springs.

Acacia Park may be relatively small, but that doesn’t make it any less memorable.

Many locals bring their children to splash in Uncle Wilber’s Fountain if the weather’s hot.

In the colder months, this place features an outdoor ice skating rink.

It’s frequently used by kids who are just beginning to skate.

Take the opportunity to attend the free concerts slated in the park.

Check out the online calendar to see what events await ahead of your visit.

It’s good to stop by the Visitor’s Hub first to be informed about the place.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

26. Manitou Incline

Cascade, CO 80809 (719) 385-5940

Manitou Incline features a one-mile trail with a steep elevation gain pegged at 2,000 feet.

Do you want to experience an extreme challenge?

With 2,744 stairs, the Manitou Incline can be quite daunting for some.

However, this attraction can still be perfect for those experienced in hiking.

Despite the difficulty, more than 70,000 people visit this place annually.

Visitors are required to book their slot ahead of time.

Before coming, make sure to have enough exercise for a stronger body.

Pack at least two liters of water and sweet candies to energize yourself.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: TownePlace Suites Colorado Springs

27. Manitou Springs Heritage Center

517 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (719) 685-1454

Founded in 1997, this place operates as a research hub focusing on Manitou Springs’ past.

Tourists who want to expand their knowledge about history shouldn’t miss this place.

At this free museum, everyone can read up about the past of the Pikes Peak region.

Aside from exhibits, the museum also prepares special events and activities for all.

No wonder it’s considered a great addition to your list of free stuff to do.

After your tour, check out their gift shop if you want to purchase souvenirs.

Those traveling during October should try the museum’s eerie yet fun walking tours.

Although adults need to pay, youngsters below 11 can join this annual event for free.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Colorado Springs North, an IHG Hotel

28. Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce

354 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (719) 685-5089

Travelers rely on the Chamber of Commerce as a gateway to this resort city in Colorado.

Manitou Springs, set at the foot of Pikes Peak, boasts many mineral springs.

If you need help exploring, then this place can be your first stop in the town.

It offers free guides that can help you enjoy the place even when you’re on a budget.

Plus, the volunteers are approachable, so you can freely ask them anything.

Walk along the historic district to expose yourself to art galleries.

Also, you may dine in restaurants that provide overlooking views of Fountain Creek.

It’s located six miles from the center of Colorado Springs, so you just need to drive for 15 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Colorado Springs North, an IHG Hotel

29. Paint Mines Interpretive Park

29950 Paint Mine Rd Calhan, CO 80808 (719) 520-7529

Paint Mines Interpretive Park features colored rock formations in an open space of 750 acres.

Have you ever been fascinated by geological formations?

Deepen your interest further with a visit to this park to see hoodoos, spires, and gulches.

It also offers a four-mile trail that can be easily accessed due to its slight elevation gain.

Look forward to seeing lovely animals along the way, too.

It’s best to schedule your trip early in the day to avoid the heat.

No matter the time, consider wearing a hat since there’s barely any shade in the park.

During your visit, make sure not to climb any rock formations to avoid danger.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Peyton Getaway

30. Fountain Creek Regional Park

2010 Duckwood Rd Fountain, CO 80817 (719) 520-7529

The Fountain Creek Regional Park offers an expansive recreational space at 460 acres.

Visiting this park can be one of the easiest things for you to do today.

With a 20-minute drive, travelers can quickly reach this place from Colorado Springs.

It has a creek-side trail where everyone can walk, jog, run, or simply go sightseeing.

Anyone who needs a lovely escape would find what they like in this place.

Begin your tour at the nature center to get a hard copy of the map.

If you have a license, you may also fish on the pond, where you can catch trout.

You can also take this opportunity to teach youngsters how fun fishing can be.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fountain North

31. Old Colorado City History Center Museum (Also Known As Old Colorado Historical Society & History Center)

1 S 24th St Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 636-1225

Since 1976, this year-round museum has highlighted the storied past of Old Colorado City.

Satisfy your curiosity about the history of Colorado through photos and artifacts.

At this museum, you’ll also meet friendly people who can give you an informative walkthrough.

Locals and guests would only need to spend less than an hour in this quaint place.

Have no worries because it’s easily accessible to many shops in the historic district.

Before visiting, make sure to contact the staff to check the availability of the museum.

If available, consider joining the walking tours to explore nearby historic homes.

You may also sit down for monthly lectures to meet experts and researchers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: MCM Elegante Suites

32. Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum

19 N Tejon St Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 487-8005

Opened in 1992, this museum was established to preserve antique motorcycles over the years.

Include this museum in your itinerary if you’re interested in motorcycles.

On the site, you’d see dozens of restored motorcycles that played a role in history.

Some motorcycles on display even date as far back as the 1900s.

It’s an excellent place to stop by tonight if you’re traveling with your friends.

Leave a message ahead of time if you’re interested in having a guided tour.

If you prefer to go solo, you can have a self-guided tour when you come over.

Consider donating in case you want to support the museum’s cause.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Hotel Colorado Springs

33. Cottonwood Center for the Arts

427 E Colorado Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 520-1899

Cottonwood, an arts organization, provides creative opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts.

Not sure what to do to excel in arts more?

Consider taking any of the classes offered in this arts center.

It covers pottery, watercolor, oil painting, and digital art, among many others.

Check out the monthly exhibits, which can also inspire you to create more art.

Schedule your visit on the first Friday of the month.

That way, you can attend the opening of their new art installation.

As a bonus, you might also talk to other art enthusiasts through this event.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Colorado Springs East

34. Fuji Arch

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Dedicated in 1966, Fuji Arch symbolizes the friendship of Colorado Springs and Fujiyoshida.

Individuals who have always wanted to visit Japan should check this structure out.

Known as a torii, this arch provides a traditional Japanese vibe at the heart of Colorado Springs.

It’s been part of the city’s public art collection for over half a century.

You’d find this on the eastern side of Acacia Park.

With its location, you’ll likely encounter many people when you come over.

But don’t worry because getting a good photo takes a few minutes.

You’d also find numerous shops and restaurants a few blocks from this arch.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wingate by Wyndham Colorado Springs

35. Stargazers Theater

10 S Parkside Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80910 (719) 476-2200

Built in 1969, the Stargazers Theater is a popular indoor facility in Colorado Springs.

Stargazers hosts many live shows throughout the year.

Most of these are musical concerts that cover a wide range of genres.

Guests can also look forward to free shows from time to time.

Check their calendar to maximize the free things to do in Colorado Springs, CO.

Arrive at least an hour before the show to secure your parking spot quickly.

Prior to entry, make sure you don’t have any outside food or water with you.

Don’t worry—the theater has a full bar where you can order your beverage.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites

Map of Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO

35 Things to Do in Colorado Springs for Free in 2024

• Garden of the Gods
• United States Air Force Academy
• Red Rock Canyon
• North Cheyenne Cañon Park
• Seven Bridges Trail
• Helen Hunt Falls
• Old Colorado City Historic District
• Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
• Penrose Heritage Museum
• Palmer Park
• Starr Kempf’s Metal Sculptures
• Peterson Air & Space Museum
• Fox Run Regional Park
• Ivywild School
• Pulpit Rock Park
• Upper Gold Camp Road
• Bear Creek Nature Center
• Ute Valley Park
• Bristol Brewing Company
• America the Beautiful Park
• John Venezia Community Park
• Memorial Park
• New Santa Fe Regional Trail
• Acacia Park
• Manitou Incline
• Manitou Springs Heritage Center
• Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce
• Paint Mines Interpretive Park
• Fountain Creek Regional Park
• Old Colorado City History Center Museum (Also Known As Old Colorado Historical Society & History Center)
• Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum
• Cottonwood Center for the Arts
• Stargazers Theater

• Eat + Drink

PSST… 17 Completely Free Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

We’re lucky enough to live in a vibrant community packed with rich history and culture, providing endless opportunities to explore all the great things Denver has to offer. And thankfully, a lot of these said opportunities don’t require you to spend a lot of money!

To prove it, we found 17 completely free things to do in the area that won’t cost you a penny. Whether it’s celebrating our local art, visiting one of our many parks, or exploring our favorite historic landmarks, we found something for everyone—all for free!

Free Educational Tours

The colorado state capitol building.

The golden-domed Colorado State Capitol Building is one of the most prominent and iconic features in Denver’s skyline. The rose onyx building sits exactly one mile above sea level—in fact, on your way in, you’ll spot a step that is labeled “One Mile Above Sea Level” where you can take a picture to commemorate the occasion. You can take a free tour of the entire building, Monday-Friday. Just make sure to get there early as tours tend to fill up quickly.

Denver Public Art Tours

All around Denver, you can spot interesting and beautiful public art. While you can, and should, take some time to explore Denver’s art scene on your own, joining a public tour will add a layer of history and community to your experience! Denver Public Art hosts several free tours every week, including a tour of the Denver Performing Arts Complex , the Golden Triangle , Burns Park and Commons Park . Visit their website to see what they have in store for this month.

Great Divide Brewery Tour

Great Divide Brewing Co. offers two different tours at two of their locations: Ballpark Brewery & Tap Room and RiNo: Barrel Bar & Packaging Wonderland . The Ballpark Brewery tour allows you to tour their original brewhouse which produces 16 taps of seasonal and year-round brews. The RiNo Barrel Bar tour allows you to view the packaging facility, canning line, barrel-aged and sour beer storage, and new taproom. And the best part? They are both 100% free!

Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour

Photo courtesy of Hammonds Candy Factory

Hammond’s Candy Factory has been a Denver institution since 1920. What started as a small family business with a loyal local following has now grown into an iconic brand with international distribution. Pay them a visit and curb your sweet tooth, or just stop in for a tour of their factory, which you can do Monday-Saturday.

Stranahan’s Distillery Tour

At Stranahan’s, single malt whiskey is made by hand using only the finest malted barley, yeast and Rocky Mountain water, and they control every step of the process from barley to bottle. In The Lounge, you can sip special releases and craft cocktails then embark on a tour of the distillery. Tours explore the process, the brewhouse, the bottling room and more.

The U.S. Mint of Denver Tour

You don’t need to break open the piggy bank to go tour the United States Mint in Denver—because it’s completely free! Here, you’ll learn the present state of coin manufacturing and the history of the Mint. Afterward, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, where you can get a few goodies to help remember your trip by! Tours are offered Monday-Friday, but there are a few exceptions. Click here for a full list of closures and the visitors’ policy.

Annual Festivals

We love a good festival here in Denver so you can bet your bottom dollar that we have one going on almost every weekend in the warmer months! Take a moment to stroll through booths, enjoy live music and enjoy some fantastic street food. Plus, there’s practically a festival for any interest, from food and beer to music and art. A few of our favorites throughout the year include A Taste of Colorado , the Denver Food + Wine Festival , Denver’s Great American Beer Festival and the Denver Chalk Art Festival .

Cherry Creek Trail

One of the most popular jogging, walking, riding and biking paths in the city, the Cherry Creek Bike Path offers a whopping 40 miles of paved trail from Denver’s Confluence Park all the way to the small town of Franktown, just a few miles from Castlewood Canyon State Park . One of our favorite ways to spend a summer day with the family is to hit the trails and explore some sites along the way. In fact, we even have a complete guide to our favorite spots on the Cherry Creek Trail !

Located in the heart of Denver and home to both the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science , City Park is a landmark in the city. There, you can picnic, play at the playground, walk or bike along miles of pathways, and play on tennis courts, football fields, soccer fields and in horseshoe pits. During the warmer months, we recommend swinging by the rental kiosk and renting a paddle boat or kayak to take out on the water!

Play a Round of Disc Golf

The disc golf fervor is heavy in Colorado, probably because it’s one more way to get outside. Course options are plentiful, and most are free. Beginners should head to Arvada to play at Johnny Roberts , and if you’re more experienced, check out Adams Hollow in Brighton. Or go for the ultimate Colorado combo and pair your round of disc golf with craft beer at Dry Dock Brewery ’s course.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

A trip to Red Rocks is one of our favorite free things to do in the area. The famous outdoor amphitheater is surrounded by, you guessed it, giant red rocks that have made this one of the most iconic music venues in the world. While there is no formal tour, you can take the family and guests up to this beautiful venue to enjoy the view and get some fresh air in a lovely spot in Colorado.

Psst… If there are no shows scheduled, the amphitheater is open one hour before sunrise and closed one hour after sunset!

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal

Located just northeast of Denver, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a 15,000-acre expanse of prairie, wetland and woodland habitats. While it was originally established, in part, to protect the bald eagle, today the Arsenal is home to more than 330 species of animals, including bison, black-footed ferrets, deer, coyotes and burrowing owls. Spend an afternoon hiking one of the many easy trails or take the self-guided Wildlife Drive Auto Tour—and it’s all completely free! Afterward, stop in and explore the Visitor Center to learn more about all the animals you had a chance to see.

Explore Local Attractions

Denver story trek.

The Denver Story Trek is an interactive self-guided tour opportunity that provides information on some of the city’s most iconic historic landmarks. Operated via smartphones and a website podcast, you can download your ideal route and listen to insightful commentary on landmarks as you see them! Some of the most popular Trek sites include Four Mile Historic Park, the Cherry Creek Bike Path, the Center for Colorado Women’s History, and the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art. Just visit the website to get started!

Free Museum Days

Denver is chock full of incredible museums that showcase everything from the history of Colorado to the science of our weird and wonderful planet. While a visit to many of our area’s museums aren’t always free—many of them offer free admission days so you can see some of Denver’s famous attractions without breaking the bank! Click here to see 2019 Denver Free Days You Won’t Want to Miss.

Take Advantage of the Library

It’s no secret that we love the library. Not only can you check out several books at a time for free—but you can also use their computers, take computer classes, participate in an event, reserve meeting spaces, participate in a book club, and so much more. And that’s not all! The Denver Public Library offers museum passes, cultural tours and ticket vouchers for a few local attractions. All you have to do is book a pass online and you can get free admission to local Denver favorites including the Butterfly Pavilion , the Denver Center for the Performing Arts Behind the Scenes Tours , the Denver Firefighters Museum , the Denver Trolley , and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science !

The Santa Fe Art District

Photo courtesy of the Sambla Refinansiering Initiative

Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe is a nationally renowned cultural district that is overseen by one of the nation’s first Certified Creative District nonprofit organizations, established in 2003. The district is home to a multitude of art studios, galleries, and cooperatives, representing the works of hundreds of local and regional Denver artists working in a variety of mediums. Museums and theaters also call the area home, along with a number of trendy restaurants serving international cuisine options and craft microbreweries and distilleries with public taprooms. You can explore the arts district as part of daily self-guided exploration or during the district’s First Friday Art Walk events, which attract thousands of regional attendees and offers transportation via a free shuttle.

Union Station

Union Station is a 100-year-old landmark in Denver that is now home to an eclectic mix of local bars, restaurants and shops. But you don’t have to spend a dime while you’re there if you don’t want to! You can join in a free tour of the structure, which lasts approximately one hour and showcases the station’s rich history and architecture. Or, you’re welcome to just wander around and explore the shops! Some of our favorites include the Tattered Cover Bookstore , BLOOM and 5 Green Boxes .

What did we miss?

Share some of your favorite free and inexpensive places to spend time and have fun in the Denver area!

This is a nice list of free things to do in Denver! If ever you’re free anytime soon and would be around Centennial, CO, we would be so happy to see you at SculptMed Medical Spa at the Streets at SouthGlenn for some relaxing and rejuvenating beauty or wellness service!

Thanks, The SculptMed Team

The 50 best free attractions in Colorado Springs

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1 Garden of the Gods

2 Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

3 Red Rock Canyon Open Space

4 pikes peak state college - downtown campus, 5 cheyenne mountain zoo.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

6 Palmer Park

7 penrose heritage museum, 8 prorodeo hall of fame & museum of the american cowboy, 9 old colorado city, colorado, 10 u.s. olympic & paralympic training center, 11 fine arts center, 12 edward j. peterson air and space museum, 13 cave of the winds mountain park, 14 united states air force academy, 15 the broadmoor seven falls.

Don’t forget to pack anything

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16 Western Museum of Mining & Industry

17 the broadmoor, 18 manitou springs penny arcade, 19 cheyenne mountain state park, 20 seven falls, 21 air force academy, 22 helen hunt falls, 23 memorial park, 24 manitou incline, 25 starsmore visitor and nature center.

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26 F-4 Phantom

27 fox run regional park, 28 may natural history museum, 29 colorado college, 30 pulpit rock park, 31 rocky mountain motorcycle museum, 32 dr. lester l. williams fire museum, 33 old colorado city historical society & history center, 34 bear creek dog park, 35 focus on the family welcome center.

Perfect for road trips

See time and distance between places, and optimize your route to get the most of your day.

36 Bear Creek Regional Park

37 red rock canyon, 38 will rogers shrine of the sun, 39 seven bridges trail, 40 america the beautiful park fantasy playground, 41 bear creek nature center, 42 monument valley park, 43 fountain creek nature center, 44 manitou springs heritage center and museum, 45 the broadmoor manitou and pikes peak cog railway.

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46 Fountain Creek Regional Park

47 america the beautiful park, 48 manitou springs skate park, 49 broadmoor hotel, 50 focus on the family bookstore, top searches in colorado springs, popular road trips from colorado springs, what's the weather like in colorado springs.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Colorado Springs for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Colorado Springs in January
• Weather in Colorado Springs in February
• Weather in Colorado Springs in March
• Weather in Colorado Springs in April
• Weather in Colorado Springs in May
• Weather in Colorado Springs in June
• Weather in Colorado Springs in July
• Weather in Colorado Springs in August
• Weather in Colorado Springs in September
• Weather in Colorado Springs in October
• Weather in Colorado Springs in November
• Weather in Colorado Springs in December

All road trips from Colorado Springs

• Colorado Springs to New York City drive
• Colorado Springs to Las Vegas drive
• Colorado Springs to Denver drive
• Colorado Springs to Orlando drive
• Colorado Springs to San Francisco drive
• Colorado Springs to Los Angeles drive
• Colorado Springs to Chicago drive
• Colorado Springs to Washington DC drive
• Colorado Springs to New Orleans drive
• Colorado Springs to San Diego drive
• Colorado Springs to Santa Fe drive
• Colorado Springs to San Antonio drive
• Colorado Springs to Seattle drive
• Colorado Springs to Toronto drive
• Colorado Springs to Nashville drive
• Colorado Springs to Branson drive
• Colorado Springs to Mexico City drive
• Colorado Springs to Vancouver drive
• Colorado Springs to Albuquerque drive
• Colorado Springs to Rocky Mountain National Park drive
• Colorado Springs to Saint Louis drive
• Colorado Springs to Dallas drive
• Colorado Springs to Sedona drive
• Colorado Springs to Taos drive
• Colorado Springs to Niagara Falls drive
• Colorado Springs to Memphis drive
• Colorado Springs to Atlanta drive
• Colorado Springs to Moab drive
• Colorado Springs to Aspen drive
• Colorado Springs to Kansas City drive

Explore nearby places

• Colorado Springs
• Manitou Springs
• Fort Carson
• Green Mountain Falls
• Black Forest
• Woodland Park
• Cripple Creek
• Palmer Lake
• Lake George
• Pueblo West
• Castle Rock

All related maps of Colorado Springs

• Map of Colorado Springs
• Map of Manitou Springs
• Map of Fort Carson
• Map of Cascade
• Map of Fountain
• Map of Green Mountain Falls
• Map of Falcon
• Map of Black Forest
• Map of Woodland Park
• Map of Monument
• Map of Victor
• Map of Divide
• Map of Cripple Creek
• Map of Palmer Lake
• Map of Peyton
• Map of Florissant
• Map of Larkspur
• Map of Penrose
• Map of Elbert
• Map of Lake George
• Map of Calhan
• Map of Pueblo West
• Map of Florence
• Map of Canon City
• Map of Castle Rock
• Map of Guffey
• Map of Elizabeth
• Map of Franktown
• Map of Kiowa
• Map of Pueblo
• Map of Sedalia

Colorado Springs throughout the year

• Colorado Springs in January
• Colorado Springs in February
• Colorado Springs in March
• Colorado Springs in April
• Colorado Springs in May
• Colorado Springs in June
• Colorado Springs in July
• Colorado Springs in August
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• Colorado Springs in November
• Colorado Springs in December

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Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Pueblo
• Top things to do and attractions in Manitou Springs
• Top things to do and attractions in Castle Rock
• Top things to do and attractions in Cripple Creek
• Top things to do and attractions in Woodland Park

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Pueblo
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Canon City
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Manitou Springs
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Castle Rock
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Cripple Creek
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Woodland Park

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Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, sand dunes, and 14ers: the sheer variety of travel destinations that make up any list of the best places to visit in Colorado is magnificent.

Known for its snowcapped peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing, and beyond, Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the coolest states to visit in the USA.

If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this Colorado bucket list is for you.

Here are the coolest places in Colorado to visit!

Table of Contents

Colorado National Parks For Your Bucket List

Cool cities + small towns to visit in co, more of the best places to visit in colorado.

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Colorado is home to four stunning national parks to visit–and despite the Centennial State’s reputation for its incredible Rocky Mountain landscapes, each park is incredibly unique and well worth a visit!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcoming more than 3 million visitors each year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the state’s most popular national park, it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Colorado as a whole!

From snowcapped mountains to alpine lakes, and from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has options for all kinds of travelers–the only thing you truly need to justify a visit is an appreciation for alpine beauty.

Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake, driving the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and checking out Old Fall River Road (either by car or by foot depending on the season).

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible–just be prepared to lace up your cross country skis to visit some of the most popular lakes!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Megan of Red Around the World

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park  is an often-overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado–but if you add it to your list of beautiful places in Colorado to visit, there’s no doubt that you’ll be blown away.

It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet deep.  It’s hard to imagine that, even when you’re there looking at it.  It’s easiest to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison which is also where you can access the river at the bottom of the canyon.

There is also access to the North Rim which is perfect if you want to get away from the already meager crowds. 

Keep in mind that though the two rims look close to each other on a map, they’re a couple hours worth of driving apart.

While the park isn’t bursting with hiking trails, there are quite a few to choose from and just as many amazing viewpoints to stop at. 

Keep your eyes peeled for bears while you’re exploring the park.  

Even if you just have a couple of hours, it’s totally worth visiting.  Most of the trails are short, under three miles round-trip. 

The Oak Flat Loop Trail is great for people looking to hike below the rim but not all the way to the river.  It’s two miles round-trip and can be narrow in some places, so be careful. 

Also make sure to drive down to the river, even if just for the experience.

Mesa Verde National Park

From James of Parks Collecting

Mesa Verde National Park  is home to 600 cliff dwellings. 

The Ancient Puebloans built their villages in overhangs in the side of steep cliffs and climbed down from above, using hand and footholds carved directly into the cliff. 

Today, you can see many of them from overlooks at the top of the mesa and see some of them up close on guided tours.  Bear in mind that you need to climb down ladders or steep steps to visit them.

The cliff dwellings are truly incredible to see.  Highlights include Cliff Palace (the largest), Long House, and Balcony House (where you need to crawl through a very narrow tunnel to exit).

Each year, some of the other dwellings are also opened up to small group visits, with a ranger as a guide.  You need to hike to these, and often climb down the original hand and footholds (with the help of modern-day chains to make it safer). 

Whether you see the cliff dwellings from overlooks, on a guided tour, or a small group back-country hike, you are sure to be fascinated by them.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Rai of A Rai of Light

Great Sand Dunes National Park, found in the Saguache and Alamosa Counties of southern Colorado, encompasses more than 100,000 acres of open-air adventure.

The fascination not only lies with the tallest sand dunes in North America, but also the surrounding landscape that features forests, snow-capped mountains, and rivers.

There is so much to do that 3 days is the minimum number of days to spend in and around the surrounding area. Top sights in the preserve include High Dune, Zapata Falls, Medano Pass.

Sandboarding is a popular activity and should not be missed. Other activities worth trying include sledding, horseback riding, and hiking to catch a beautiful sunrise .

The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall.

The closest town is Mosca, but the park is easily reached from any major city as the San Luis Valley Airport is a mere 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of Estes Park easily ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalance of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any Colorado bucket list.

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, check out one of the town’s breweries, and pay a visit to the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.

Even if you don’t check in, the hotel is still worth a peak!

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

Crested Butte

From Martina + Jurgen of PlacesofJuma

Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended places to visit in Colorado.

It is famous as a ski resort and is also considered to be the capital of wildflowers, making Crested Butte a fantastic year-round travel destination in Colorado.

In winter, the challenging ski slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. The cross-country ski trails, which are located around the city, add a special beauty to the unique landscape.

In the warm months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the unique nature of the region and the splendor of the flowers.

But not only is the surrounding nature gorgeous, but the town is also pretty too!

Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town, and walking around, you will discover picturesque historical buildings, great restaurants, and plenty of mountain views.

We also recommend a visit in July, when the famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

• Nordic Inn: This comfortable hotel is a great place to rest after exploring. There is a Great Room with complimentary games and views over Mt. Crested Butte, there is also a large hot tub to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and really cosy.
• Public House Lofts: As the name suggests these rooms are over a really great bar called Public House, perfectly located for getting home quickly at the end of the evening! The rooms are modern, comfortable and really well designed. Definitely a great spot to stay in Crested Butte.

Colorado’s capital city is arguably one of the trendiest and fastest-growing cities in the country–and given that Denver offers a fantastic array of things to do while also being located within proximity of epic mountain hikes, it’s no surprise.

Known for its breweries, parks, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park as well as popular mountain towns like Boulder and Estes Park, Denver makes a fantastic weekend getaway destination .

While you’re in Denver, consider catching a game at Coor’s Field, seeing a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, strolling down the 16th Street Mall, stopping by Larimer Square, and–of course–hitting up a few of those popular breweries.

If you’re looking to add some museum-hopping to your Denver itinerary , the city also has you covered, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique options like the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

Steamboat Springs

From Liz of Peanuts or Pretzels

Steamboat Springs might be a popular ski town in Colorado and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here can feel less like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation and more like an adventure.

This is a town with a vibrant local community, humorous traditions, and lively Western history.

A four-season destination, there’s plenty of things to do year-round in Steamboat. But for many, winter is the most magical time.

Winter sports are everywhere, not just the main ski resort.

The locals even have their own hill in the center of town and during the Winter Carnival each February, the town comes alive with ski contests (complete with light-up costumes and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures, and parades where horses pull thrill-seekers on skis over jumps right through the middle of town!

After all of that winter fun, take a soothing dip in one of the  hot springs around town , such as Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural scenery tucked back in a canyon. 

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

• For a premium place to stay, book into the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas . This is a classic excellent quality large hotels with all the facilities you would expect. Guaranteed great stay
• Chalet Val d’Isere is also a fabulous option but with more of a homely vibe. There are just a few rooms and it is a classic ski lodge style cabin complete with plenty of cozy features.

Breckenridge

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rockies with non-stop activities and scenic beauty.

Visit the craft breweries and fabulous restaurants in this town surrounded by mountain peaks. Breckenridge chefs feature local farm-to-table ingredients. In Breckenridge’s historic district you can learn the story of this old mining town.

Breckenridge is famous for its world-class cross country and alpine skiing, making it one of the most classic Colorado vacation spots. The Breckenridge ski resort boasts 5 mountains and 187 trails.

In the summer you will find wildflowers as you hike into an alpine meadow or a cascading waterfall. In fall, the blazing colors of the aspens are spectacular.

Breckenridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing, and biking are a few of the outdoor adventures to try. Hikers will love the hundreds of nearby trails.

Don’t miss a chance to take the free gondola ride up into the mountains. It’s not unusual to see moose or a bald eagle from your vantage point high above the meadows.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.
• Mountain Valley Lodge : A great Marriott resort with all the expected facilities, rooms are really spacious and all have great views of the mountains. There is also an onsite spa, swimming pool and ski storage.

Glenwood Springs

From Mark of Summer Camp Hub

Glenwood Springs is a city right by the Rocky Mountains famous for being home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado .

It’s renowned as an excellent Colorado vacation spot for just about everyone, including families and would-be adventurers. 

If you’re looking to soak in hot springs, you need to visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs. There are 16 hot springs you can enjoy while getting a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking to go hiking, then the Glenwood Canyon is readily available with hikes like the Grizzly Creek and the Hanging Lake. 

There are also plenty of other outdoor thrilling activities you can do like paragliding and rafting.

If you’re visiting as a family, there are plenty of outdoor kid-friendly activities children can participate in.

With such a huge opportunity for children to receive an outdoor education, it’s no surprise that there are numerous summer camps in the state  and city. 

Apart from outdoor adventures to partake in, be sure to visit the famous comedy shows that go on at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

• Glenwood Springs B&B: Fancy staying in a piece of history? This quaint B&B is over 100 years old and is exceptionally well maintained. Many of the rooms have deep claw-foot bathtubs and if that isn’t enough water for you there is a huge jacuzzi for guests.
• Hanging Lake Inn: For something more classic this Inn is a great option. Facilities are fresh and modern, and there is a lovely porch area with views of the hills.

Manitou Springs

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Manitou Springs is a historic city located just outside of Colorado Springs with roots tracing back to the Pikes Peak gold rush.

It is the perfect Colorado bucket list destination for some small-town charm, natural beauty, culture, and fun!

A visit to Manitou Springs would not be complete without taking a  self-guided walking tour of the springs. There are eight springs in total along a 1.4-mile trail through town, each with its own unique mineral content.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, authentic relocated Pueblos, is another must-visit spot in Manitou Springs.

For some more hiking, climb the Incline near Pikes Peak for some stunning views, or if you prefer not to hike, drive the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit.

After a long day of exploring, find plenty of food and bar options in downtown Manitou Springs.

If traveling with kids, be sure to check out the world-famous Penny Arcade for games, kiddie rides, and prizes! And finally stop in at Pike’s Peak Ice Cream for some tasty treats and ice cream! 

Where to Stay in Manitou Springs

• Cliff House: Looking like something out of a fairy story this fabulous hotel has wonderful old-world charm, pretty views, and some rooms even have working fireplaces!
• Magnuson Grand : For more of a classic modern hotel this is a great option. The facilities are lovely and there are mountain views throughout. It is also minutes away from the waterfalls and Garden of the Gods.

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Telluride is a small but mighty town with colorful mining history and unparalleled landscapes that draw visitors from all over the country. 

Tucked away in the box canyon in San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Telluride is definitely an exclusive destination as it’s not easy to get to. It takes about 5-6 hours from Denver to get here, and the local airport doesn’t have big commercial flights. 

Telluride is a scenic destination that is renowned for its year-round outdoor opportunities, gorgeous nature, and a vibrant art scene, so it’s not just skiing that brings so many people here (Although Telluride does have some great slopes). 

Telluride also offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado from the iconic Blue Lakes a short drive away to Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail that can be accessed from downtown Telluride.

For an amazing experience, take a free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village from where you can get a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains. 

Visitors also enjoy an ice rink at Hotel Madeline or get a tour of the area to learn about its history of silver mining.

Downtown Telluride is home to a big art scene with several galleries and you can easily participate in one of the organized tours. 

Where to Stay in Telluride

• Mountain Lodge: This classic chalet style aparthotel offers wonderful fully equipped, spacious apartments. It is nestled in the mountains and has onsite spa facilities and a great restaurant.
• The Bivvi Hostel: Don’t let the hostel name fool you! The facilities here are excellent are there is more to offer than crowded dorm-rooms. Private rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Shared facilities onsite feature billiards, a hot tub, garden and pretty terrace.

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the state.  Known for its world-class ski runs and luxurious accommodations, Vail is a sought-after destination worldwide. 

You can travel to Vail year-round but the best time to visit Vail is in the winter.  With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is not only one of the biggest in the United States but it’s also extremely popular. 

From the legendary back bowls to the bunny hill, Vail mountain offers something for every ability level. 

Vail Village is full of boutique shops, fun bars, and tasty restaurants.  One of the best bars in Vail Village is Vendetta’s.  Come here for a fun environment, apres drinks, and cheap pizza.  

If you are looking for more of an intimate dining experience reserve a table at one of the several on-mountain restaurants like Game Creek. 

Whatever it is that peaks your interest, Vail, Colorado is a Colorado travel destination for the whole family to enjoy.  

Where to Stay in Vail

• Lodge at Lionscreek: The location for this hotel is perfect, it is right next to the transit point for the ski lifts. Ski equipment is also available for rental on site if you don’t bring your own. The facilities are excellent, rooms have views over Gore Creek and are all private apartment style with their own kitchen facilities, some of the larger ones also have beautiful dining spaces in case you want to host!
• Tivoli Lodge: For a hotel set up this is a great option, rooms are fabulous and quite large. The hotel itself is a few meters away from several slope and ski lifts, it also has an onsite cocktail lounge for après-ski!

Pagosa Springs

From Agnes of The Van Escape

Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado.

It is worth adding it to the  road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

The town is famous for its magnificent thermal springs, thanks to which it owes its name. In Ute, “pagosah” means “healing waters.” Pagosa is the home of the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.

So, the best thing you can do in this town is soaked up the hot springs and relax.

The mineral-rich waters fill the baths at The Springs Resort & Spa, The Overlook Hot Springs, and Healing Waters Resort & Spa. Each of them is open to the public.

In addition to the hot springs resorts, there are interesting and picturesque hiking trails around Pagosa Springs. You can admire fabulous waterfalls like Treasure Falls or Piedra Falls. Moreover, rafting and kayaking trips are popular on the San Juan River.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs

• The Nightingale Motel: Well located with pretty views and excellent rooms, complete with private balcony. There is also an onsite bar to refresh after visiting the hot springs.
• For a homely self contained option the Fireside Cabins are fabulous. Decor is in keeping with the mountain theme and the kitchens are well equipped with everything you need.

Colorado Springs

From Jenny of Limitless Hiker

Spend a weekend or even a long weekend exploring Colorado Springs . It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of this small town in Colorado.

Colorado Springs is well known for its Manitou Springs Incline which gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. Whether you’re looking for a tough workout to start training for Colorado 14ers (14,000-foot mountains), or just want to challenge yourself, this incline trail is a must.

Colorado Springs is also known for the beautiful Garden of the Gods park.

The Garden of the Gods is known for its bright orange rock formations. It’s a popular spot among rock climbers or you can spend some time biking around or even hiking around.

Next on the list of must-see places in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Which is the only 14er in this area. You have the option of hiking to the top, which is 26.2 miles round trip with around 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or you could also hike one way and have someone pick you up at the top. The other alternative is to drive to the top. 

After you’ve had a good workout from all of that hiking, head over to the SunWater Spa and soak in their hot springs. This is a rewarding treat after a hard workout.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

• The Lodge at Flying Horse is a stunning option for your stay in Colorado Springs. The resort is a European-style 18-hole golf course with views across the grounds and incredible facilities.
• To stay in the heart of Downtown book into Kinship Landing . Rooms are clean and stylish, and if you are on a budget they have great dorm rooms available.

From Ankita of My Travelling Stilettos

Nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the most famous ski resort town in the US and one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Long snowy winters thanks to the elevation of 8000 ft and proximity of four world-renowned Ski Resorts made it the favorite ski destination for celebrities and private citizens alike.

It is situated 200 miles away from Denver and can be reached easily by road.

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding are the most popular activities to do in the winter.

Not an adventure junkie? Explore Aspen town.

Visit Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerom, catch glimpses of annual film and music festivals or experience a fine dining meal from the plethora of world-class restaurants.

Spring and falls are the ideal time to take mountain gondola rides to the top of Elks Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Aspen has many hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy when it is not snowing.

Where to Stay in Aspen

• Limelight Hotel is a superb option in Aspen, and great value for money. There is a hot tub, outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace to enjoy in warmer months. Rooms are spacious and many include kitchenettes.
• The W also has a fabulous hotel here in Aspen with all the top range facilities you would expect. Rooms are excellent with luxury details, such as fluffy bathrobes and towels. There are also bikes available for free use should you want to explore Aspen on wheels.

Grand Junction

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking to get beyond Colorado’s famous ski towns and find some  cheaper places in Colorado to visit that are still worthy of a Colorado bucket list? Look no further than Grand Junction.

Located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado rivers, Grand Junction is such a beautiful place that offers everything from natural scenic views to Colorado adventures without burning a hole in your pocket.

It is just a short drive away from Utah and around 245 miles away from Denver. Not only for outdoor adventures but this popular Colorado town is also known as Colorado’s Wine County as it is home to many wineries.

From exploring historic downtown to wine tasting and hiking nearby trails, you will find plenty of things to do in Grand Junction.

Discover Grand Junction’s historic downtown district which is filled with varieties of mixed art galleries, sculptures, local boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Next, visit the Colorado National Monument, where you just may think that you’ve been transporated to the rocky landscape of southern Utah.

Located just a short drive from downtown, these natural stunning landscapes of red rock formations will leave you awestruck.

Grand Junction is also a great place for wine lovers. If you visit this place in summer or spring, don’t miss a wine tasting tour. Enjoy the views of the vineyards while sipping on some of the best quality wines.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction

• Castle Creek Manor: A lovely B&B with a friendly homely vibe and mountain views. Some rooms have balconies, perfect for taking in the fresh air.
• Grand River Inn: With spacious rooms and rustic decor this is a lovely choice for Grand Junction

From Krystianna of Delightfully Denver

One of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado is the town of Golden!

This town has deep-rooted wild west vibes and is home to some amazing attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting this state. Plus,  one day in Golden  is all you need.

Even though Denver is home to Coors Field, Golden is actually where Coors Brewery is located.

The brewery hosts tours for the public, and you can even catch a shuttle bus from downtown Golden to easily get there if you’re traveling without a car.

Golden is also one of the best towns near Denver for hiking. There are a few mountains to hike here, including Lookout Mountain and Table Mountain, and both are equally great.

Downtown Golden is lovely too. There’s a huge “Welcome to Golden” sign that gets decorated for the holidays. You can find a bunch of local shops and restaurants throughout downtown Golden like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado and want to visit a small western town, Golden is the perfect place!

Where to Stay in Golden

• Table Mountain Inn: With mountain views and rustic decor this is a great place to stay in Golden
• The Silk Pincushion: As expected with such a quirky name this adorable hotel is a charming place to stay in Golden, perfect for a home style welcome.

From Corritta of It’s a Family Thing

One of the best-kept secrets of Colorado is Canon City. I know you may be wondering what makes this one of the best places in Colorado, and that’s the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Only an hour away from Colorado Springs, Canon City is a small town with a big bridge. The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspended bridge in the United States. The bridge is over 900 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is a sight to see and even more amazing to walk. Along with walking across the over 1200 footbridge, you can also ride the gondola across the gorge, zipline, or fly on the royal rush sky coaster.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can head down to the gorge and enjoy a train ride along the Arkansas River. You can relax and have dinner while learning more about Canon City.

If you are up for an adventure, you can raft on the Arkansas River. Take of the waters while taking in the beautiful scenic views.

In the spring, you can enjoy the music and blossom festival, which is a celebration of the upcoming cherry and apple crop.

Canon City is the perfect small-town with diners, shops, boutiques, and few traffic lights. Be sure to stop at Julian’s Taco Shop downtown; you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay in Canon City

• Hampton Inn: For good simple accommodation this is a great choice in Canon City. It is also walking distance to Royal Gorge Bridge.

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

Aurora is one of the best places in Colorado. You find the city to the east of Denver.

There are lots of great things to do and see in the city of Aurora. For example, there are a lot of outdoor activities and there is beautiful nature.

One of the best things to do in Aurora is going to Cherry Creek State Park. This is a beautiful park with lots of places with water. It is the perfect place for a relaxing walk while seeing the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Another great thing about Cherry Greek State Park is that there are many water activities. Besides that, another great thing to do in Aurora is visiting the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This is a very interesting museum to visit.

Also, you should go to Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. This is a very large outdoor amphitheater where many events throughout the year take place.

Where to Stay in Aurora

• Woolley’s Classic Suites : With old-world touches and mountain views this is a great option for your stay in Aurora.

Mount Evans

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If standing on the summit of a 14er is on your Colorado bucket list, don’t miss a trip to Mount Evans.

You can reach the 14,265-foot summit of this mountain in multiple ways, so you get to decide how hard you want to work to get to the top.

Mount Evans is located about 60 miles west of Denver, along Mount Evans Scenic Byway (aka Highway 5), which is the highest paved road in the whole country.

You can actually drive it straight to the top with only a short stroll to the true summit from the parking lot.

For the extra bragging rights and experience of hiking a 14er , pull off earlier on the road and park at Summit Lake trailhead.

From there, hike approximately 4.5 miles round trip (with 2300 feet of elevation gain) to get to the summit of Mount Evans.

If you prefer pedal power, you can bike to the summit as well.

Be aware that the road to the trailhead and summit is closed in winter, so plan to visit Mount Evans in spring, summer, or fall.

Where to Stay in Mount Evans

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in nearby Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.

From Jesal of Tourist to Travellers

Grand Lake Colorado, the largest natural lake in Colorado is a picturesque sight with snow-capped mountains and a breathtaking backdrop of the wild Rocky Mountains, and it ranks among the best Colorado vacation spots!

At 8300 feet above sea level, the scenery is unmatched and the sprawling greenery is soothing to one’s eyes.

It’s also an ideal basecamp for the adventure seeker.

While visiting Grand Lake, be sure to take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, relax on the beach, take a few hikes to enjoy the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

You could hire a cozy cabin in the woods and spend some time with your loved ones.

If you’re visiting this beautiful place in Colorado during winter, consider trying out skiing or snowboarding during your trip.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

• Grand Lake Townhome : This fully equipped self-catered holiday home is great for small groups or a couple if you want plenty of space! There is a wonderful deck with great views, it is even known to spot Moose right in front.
• Grand Lake Lodge: For catered options with the same cabin feel is this lodge right in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is also a hot tub and pool available to use.

Willow Lakes

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Willow Lakes in Colorado brings the drama of the Colorado Gore Range to life.

If you’re up for a challenging hike that makes up for every drop of sweat with fantastic scenery, this is definitely one of the best places in Colorado to please your adventurous soul!

Known for its rugged trails, fantastic mountain views, and jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes (one which is backdropped by an impressive series of gendarmes, the Zodiac Spires), Willow Lakes will greet you every step of the way with yet another wonderful view (usually better than the last!).

Another highlight? The entire trail is lined with flowers, which makes it one of the best  wildflower hikes in Colorado !

One of the coolest things to do at Willow Lakes (aside from dropping your jaw to the ground at the scenery) is camping in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Willow Lakes

There are several campsites along the last mile of the trail. Few things in life are as amazing as spending a night under the stars here!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado”

There is a flaw in this article, Grand Lake is a very nice small mountain town. And yes there is a lake called Grand Lake, but the big lake is called Lake Granby.

Not a flaw. Lake Granby is man-made. The article states that Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO, which is in fact, true.

I can’t believe Ouray wasn’t on the list.

Tourist from back east has visited Ouray several times. Great area to visit, hike and view mountains. Definitely an oversite! Friendly. Great camping nearby Norman and Linda

This brings back memories. Thank you so much.

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• Free & Cheap Activities

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Aurora, CO

• The list below includes 253 free or cheap things to do in or near Aurora, Colorado, including 87 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Horseback Riding, Playgrounds and Horse Races.
• From Cherry Creek State Park to Aurora Reservoir, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Aurora and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Golden , Littleton , Denver and Wheat Ridge .

Up to 49% Off Private Golf Lessons

Cherry creek state park, aurora reservoir, great plains park, grandview dog park, the morrison nature center at star k ranch, aurora history museum, arapahoe park, amc dine-in theater southlands, 12 mile stables.

16 of the best things to do in Colorado

Sep 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Experience the beauty of Colorado with these top things to do © gcosoveanu / Getty Images

With more than 300 glorious days of sun and majestic landscapes to match, it’s no wonder Colorado beckons to outdoorsy types .

You'll find adventures to be had in just about every corner of the state, from hiking trails and white water rapids to world-class mountain resorts and towering sand dunes.

But Colorado offers more than adrenaline rushes and Instagram moments. It’s also known for its layers of history, its vibrant art and music scene, its cowboy culture and tasty craft brews. Here are the best things to do in Colorado that showcase the variety the state has to offer.

1. Enjoy the fall colors in Aspen

Just beyond the cowboy-meets-Hollywood glam of Aspen , the twin Maroon Bell mountains rise dramatically over a long mirrored lake. Surrounded by thick aspen groves, fall brings a sea of fluttering yellow and orange leaves. It’s sublime, a dream and one of the best places in the state to see fall colors .

Planning tip: The trail near the lake can get crowded this time of year, especially in late September when the leaves are at their peak. Arrive before 8am for a parking spot, some solitude and the best chance at seeing wildlife. Otherwise, take the shuttle from town and hike deep into the aspen groves towards Crater Lake to take in the beauty without the crowd.

2. Explore ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde National Park is a one-of-a-kind place, the largest and best-preserved Native American archaeological site in the US. Nestled in a stunning landscape of canyons and mesas near the  Four Corners region, Mesa Verde is home to more than 5000 Ancestral Puebloan sites that developed over hundreds of years before being abruptly abandoned in 1300CE for reasons still unknown.

What remains is one of the most exhilarating adventures in the West: clambering down ladders, crawling through tight tunnels and peering into elaborate cliff dwellings, all to puzzle over what life was once like here.

3. Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

If there’s any place that’s quintessentially Colorado, it’s  Rocky Mountain National Park . Every view is a picture postcard: a vast landscape of granite peaks and shimmering lakes, flower-filled meadows and dense forests.

But it’s no secret that RMNP can get jam-packed, especially in summer. Lose the crowds by leaving the roadside viewpoints and lacing up your hiking boots instead.

The park has 300 miles of trails catering to all levels of ability and ambition, from an easy stroll around Bear Lake to an epic trek up Longs Peak. Impressive vistas and perfect solitude also can be found on hundreds of thousands of acres of backcountry, areas home to herds of elk, scattered bighorn sheep, black bears and more.

4. Visit the ghost town of St Elmo

Following a bumpy dirt road to the abandoned mining settlement of St Elmo, it’s easy to imagine the prospectors who plied this same roadway, following tales of precious metal found deep in the Rockies. Tucked into the base of the Collegiate Peaks, St Elmo is Colorado’s best-preserved ghost town.

More than 40 buildings are still standing, most dating to the 1880s when the town hit its apex. Wandering past the saloon, billiards hall, courthouse and jail, visitors get a peek into Colorado’s past, when gold and silver ruled these hills. It serves as a modern-day reminder of the quick riches and busted dreams of the past, the making and breaking of the West. 

5. Throw back a Colorado craft brew

Colorado takes its beer seriously, treating craft brewing like a high art. Almost any town you visit – from tiny Del Norte to beer-centric Fort Collins – has a favorite local brew or two (or 20). One thing’s for sure: you won’t go thirsty for an IPA in Colorado.

Planning tip: If you’re here in September, try to score tickets to the  Great American Beer Festival . Held in Denver, the festival draws more than 1000 master brewers from across the nation, vying for Best of Show medals in categories like Best Coffee Beer, Best Barrel-Aged Strong Beer and many more. Best of all is the camaraderie of you and 60,000 beer buddies, all tasting outstanding beers one ounce at a time.

6. Catch a concert at Red Rocks

There’s something about attending a concert at  Red Rocks : the sounds of instruments and song, the sight of people dancing, an umbrella of dark sky above and the iconic 400ft-high red sandstone monoliths standing guard on either side. Once a sacred gathering place of the Ute tribe, today Red Rocks is world renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning beauty, a one-of-a-kind amphitheater.

It’s no surprise big name bands like The Beatles, U2, Jimi Hendrix and The Grateful Dead have played and recorded albums here and that the venue continues to draw the world’s best musicians and performers. Just 15 miles from Denver, it’s easily accessible, too.

Planning tip: Do like locals do and catch the sunset before the show.

7. Soak in Glenwood Hot Springs

Perched at the end of a gorgeous canyon at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, present-day Glenwood Hot Springs have been treasured for their healing properties for centuries. Long before the arrival of Europeans, the Ute bathed in these same steamy thermal waters, which they called yampah (great medicine).

Today, a historic resort sits on the site, the hot springs pumping out 3.5 million gallons of mineral water a day, flowing through two pools, one a whopping 400ft long.

Planning tip:  Temperatures range from 93°F to 104°F, warm enough to soak in even on a snowy January day. Bring your swimsuit and, if need be, your ski hat.

8. Drive the Million Dollar Highway

Deep in the San Juan Mountains, the Million Dollar Highway connects the towns of Ouray and Silverton, is a mind-blowingly scenic drive, and one of Colorado’s best road trips . Twenty five miles of hairpin turns and tight S-bends cut through the Uncompahgre Gorge, whose steep mountainsides loom large and close, rising into lofty, mist-shrouded peaks, while the valley floor lies far below, dotted with fir trees and wildflowers.

Planning tip: Drive with caution. The road is formidable, even in good weather, and the lack of guardrails doesn’t help. Take advantage of pullouts. The Red Mountain Pass (11,018ft) is a favorite for its 360-degree views.

9. Hula hoop in Telluride

It supposedly all started back in the '90s when Colorado ski-bum band String Cheese Incident started chucking hula hoops into the crowd at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Festival-goers turned the toys into dance partners, and the fad stuck. You can count on a large contingent of "hoopers" at every Telluride Bluegrass Festival show.

It’s just one of the many odd-ball pleasures of this amazing celebration of folk music and mountain life, held in  Telluride every summer and drawing big-name bands and thousands of revelers. Telluride itself is stunningly beautiful, nestled in a narrow box canyon, surrounded on three sides by rugged peaks and even a waterfall. It's not easy to get to, but it's well worth the effort.

10. Surf down the tallest dunes in North America

Great Sand Dunes National Park sits like a surreal work of art next to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, an undulating dune field covering more than 30 square miles, its sandy peaks reaching hundreds of feet above the brush-covered valley floor. Climbing the dunes can be slow going – one step forward and a half step back in the ever-shifting sand – but that makes sand surfing down all the sweeter.

Special wood boards definitely make for the best ride, and they can be rented from the  Great Sand Dunes Oasis just outside the park or in nearby Alamosa. Sport your ski goggles and long socks, if you got ‘em – the sand gets everywhere.

Planning tip: If you’re here in late spring, count yourself lucky. The Medano Creek emerges temporarily alongside the dunes, creating a beach for water play, tubing and, of course, sandcastle-making.

11. Discover Denver’s street art

Unexpected and totally fabulous, Denver ’s trendiest neighborhood, RiNo (River North) – a one-time industrial wasteland that's now the heart of cool – is draped in murals covering every sort of surface, from restaurant doorways and parking lot walls to alleyways, power boxes and garage doors.

Bright, opinionated and ever-changing, the artwork stops you in your tracks, speaking volumes about Denver’s diversity of people and thought, and its history and day-to-day life. Prepare to be wowed.

12. Paddle the Arkansas River

Brace yourself for icy waters as you paddle into a roaring set of waves on the Arkansas River, one of the longest and wildest rivers in the state. With more than 150 miles of open water running from Leadville to the scenic Royal Gorge, the Arkansas has everything from extreme rapids to mellow ripples and includes the iconic class-II run through Browns Canyon National Monument.

Planning tip: The best paddling happens between late May and early July. Pick up a trip in Buena Vista or Cañon City.  

13. Ski Vail, the state's best ski resort

You might think  Vail is merely a playground for the rich and famous, and not a serious ski resort. Think again: beyond the glitz and glam (and shocking prices), Vail is truly one of the world’s finest ski resorts, boasting more than 5000 skiable acres, 195 trails, and some of the best on- and off-piste terrain anywhere.

The front side is a paradise of silky corduroy – Vail’s groomers are artists indeed – ranging from mellow greens to long rowdy black diamonds like Blue Ox. But don’t miss the backside, especially the legendary Blue Sky Basin and seven – count ‘em, seven – bowls. There’s so much steep ’n deep that you’ll lose track of what you’ve skied or ridden. Colorado has many outstanding ski resorts, true, but Vail will steal your heart. 

14. Touch dinosaur bones

A must-see stop for dinophiles is  Dinosaur National Monument , located in the desolate northwest corner of Colorado. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can actually reach out and touch a dinosaur skeleton, snarling in its final pose, petrified eternally in rock and stone.

Home to one the largest fossil beds in North America, the dinosaur quarry here also shows off some 1500 prehistoric bones embedded in a cliff face. You’ll see everything from allosaurus to stegosaurus.

Planning tip: Ranger-led walks, talks and tours explain the site, and a bunch of hands-on exhibits add to the fun.

15. Summit a fourteener

Standing at the peak of a 14,000ft mountain, taking in the view from the top of the world, is practically a rite of passage in Colorado. The state’s 50-plus " fourteeners " offer access and challenge to all levels of hikers, from those reachable only with technical climbing expertise to the two peaks with roads right to the top.

Whether you decide to drive to the top of  Pikes Peak (or take the cog train), hike the 3-mile trail to Quandary Peak near Breckenridge or make a run at Mt Elbert (the tallest of them all), they all deliver big.

16. Sport your Stetson at the National Western Stock Show

Saddle up for one of the country’s biggest stock shows – the  National Western Stock Show – a Denver tradition since 1906. Held every January, come here for more than 20 rodeos, 15,000 farm animals, dancing horses, dog shows and even yoga with baby goats.

Don’t miss the iconic kick-off parade, when dozens of Longhorn cattle are herded right through downtown Denver, high heels and power suits giving way to cowboy hats, chaps and impressive belt buckles.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated September 2023

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The Best Places to Visit in Colorado — National Parks, Small Towns, and Hot Springs Included

From stunning national parks to quirky small towns, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Alessandro Bruno/500px/Getty Images

Colorado is perhaps best known for the Rocky Mountains that stretch across the state and offer up hiking and biking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. But what most people don’t know about Colorado is that the state also has beautiful red rock formations set in the dry desert, ancient cliff dwellings, and alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drums.

The one thing that binds everyone who lives in or visits Colorado is a love of nature and the outdoors — be it river rafting, climbing 14,000-foot peaks, or wildflower viewing. And as someone who grew up in the state (and lives here now), I’ve spent several decades exploring the vista-rich Centennial State. These parks, monuments, towns, and sites showcase the variety of experiences the state offers. Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Related: 10 Best Small Towns in Colorado

Rattlesnake Canyon Arches

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Utah’s Arches National Park has the world’s highest concentration of natural arches, but right across the border in Colorado is the world’s second-highest concentration. And in Colorado, you don’t have to pay a national park entry fee (or battle the crowds) to see them. Rattlesnake Canyon Arches boasts 35 natural arches tucked in a canyon on a 123,400-acre preserve. 

Related: 10 Best Colorado National Parks and Sites

Larimer Square

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Colorado may be known for its natural beauty, but the draw of downtown Denver is impossible to overlook. Larimer Square was the city's first designated local historic district for good reason — the city block is perfectly picturesque with shops and eateries that round out the Colorado experience. The square is a short 10-minute walk from the heart of the city: Union Station.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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It doesn’t get more Colorado than watching a golden eagle soar above a steep gorge. The sighting is part of the experience at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in western Colorado. The national park is marked by a deep, river-carved gorge with sheer walls. For the coolest view, check out the Painted Wall cliff that looks as if it was painted with giant stripes.

Colorado National Monument

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When you think of the American West, chances are you imagine something like the Colorado National Monument , which sits high on the Colorado Plateau and includes natural wonders like sheer canyon walls, towering monoliths, herds of bighorn sheep, and soaring eagles. In this grand landscape, there is plenty to keep you busy — including the beautiful Rim Rock Drive, year-round camping, and hiking and biking.

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Aspen is by no means a hidden gem, but it’s popular for a reason. The beautiful mountain town has four ski areas (that you can access with one lift ticket) and a surprising amount of culture for a town of around 7,000 people. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Aspen without a stop by the Maroon Bells , the most photographed mountains in North America.

Mesa Verde National Park

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This national park in southwestern Colorado is considered to be one of the state’s most sacred places. It was once inhabited by the Ancestral Pueblo people who built their homes in the sandstone cliffs. That heritage (and architectural wonder) is protected within this park, which is also a World Heritage Site and an International Dark Sky Park.

Amache National Historic Site

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One of the most significant moments in Colorado’s history is not known by many. The Amache National Historic Site , also called the Granada Relocation Center or Camp Amache, is where thousands of Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. Today, the eastern Colorado site shares the stories of the more than 10,000 people who passed through the camp — the majority of whom were U.S. citizens.

Pagosa Springs

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There are plenty of natural hot springs throughout the state (just check out the state’s hot spring loop ), but one of the best is found in Pagosa Springs, a small town that sits over the world’s deepest hot spring. I’d argue the best spot to soak is The Springs Resort & Spa , which has terraced tubs set along the river, but if you want to save a buck, you can also soak in the totally free “ hippy dip ” across the river.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado’s most visited national park. It is just over an hour’s drive from downtown Denver and is unique in that it spans the Continental Divide. In the fall, the Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road are particularly colorful drives, while mountaineers come to summit Longs Peak, the park’s tallest mountain.

Remember when I said that Colorado was home to “alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drum”? I was talking about Crestone, a tiny town of just under 150 people that is committed to sustainable living and spirituality. Throughout the town, you’ll find a variety of off-the-grid homes and spiritual centers and sites like the Crestone Mountain Zen Center and the Tashi Gomang Stupa .

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Jeremy Poland/Getty Images

Just west of Denver, you’ll spot giant red rocks that seem to shoot out from the earth. This rock structure was long ago harnessed to create a natural amphitheater that has become world renowned for its unique sound quality. In fact, playing at Red Rocks has become a goal performance for many big-name artists.

Glenwood Springs

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When it comes to mountain towns with all-around appeal, it’s hard to top Glenwood Springs. The “larger” mountain town (just over 10,000 people), is set on the interstate making it easy to access from Denver (2.5 hours away). The town has three developed hot springs, a mountaintop adventure park that can only be accessed by gondola, and a river that provides opportunities for paddlers and fishers.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

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The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of those places that you might not expect to find in Colorado. The park protects a natural phenomenon: giant mounds of sand that were collected at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and the mysterious “surge flow” of Medano Creek . 

Crested Butte

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Like every other Colorado mountain town , Crested Butte has wonderful hiking and biking trails and great skiing, but what sets it apart is the abundance of wildflowers that earned it the nickname “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” There’s even an annual 10-day festival celebrating the blooms.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

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In the dry, red rock canyons of southwestern Colorado is this archaeological wonder. The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument encompasses a whopping 174,000 acres that contain clues to the daily lives of ancient Indigenous people, including more than 8,300 recorded villages, cliff dwellings, shrines, kivas, petroglyphs, and other historic sites. 

Steamboat Springs

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Steamboat Springs is yet another Colorado hot spring and ski town, but unlike the others on this list, Steamboat has a unique American West feel. Here, cowboy hats are just as common as Chacos, and the landscape lends itself to people who like to get outside. There are two ski areas, geothermal hot springs, and a state park directly to the north. 

Denver Union Station

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Many cities have a train station, but Denver has turned their transportation hub into the heart of the city. The 1914 Beaux-Arts train station , which is also a historic landmark, consists of 10 chef-owned restaurants and bars, a boutique hotel, and a handful of unique shops (and there are four bee hives on the roof). Once you’ve shopped and eaten your fair share, you can hop on the bus, light rail, or Amtrak to your next destination. 

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The city of Durango is perched where the mountains meet the desert, providing a landscape that has a little of everything. There are hot springs, ski areas, mountain biking trails, and plenty of fun to be had on the Animas River that runs through town. In the summer, a top to-do is riding the 19th-century Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango to Silverton, Colorado over a mountain pass.  

Dinosaur National Monument

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Like dinos? Colorado has you covered. At this national monument , which straddles the Colorado-Utah border and passes into both states, there’s endless proof that dinosaurs once roamed the Colorado landscape. The monument includes dinosaur remains that are embedded in the rocks, petroglyphs from early humans, and plenty of outdoorsy things to do including river rafting, hiking, and camping.

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Boulder is a college town with easy access to Denver and the mountains. To the west of the city sit the Flatirons, rock formations lined with trails, while the downtown neighborhood of Pearl Street Mall has everything from art galleries to inventive eats and unique boutiques.

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The Best Free Thing to Do in All 50 States (Including a Free Zoo)

Posted: February 26, 2024 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

Financially savvy travelers tend to be quite skilled at finding the free stuff at any given destination (even hot tourist spots). When traveling around the US, there’s no shortage of interesting free attractions to fill your days — no matter which region you happen to be in.

To help you step up your travel game , here are some of the most popular free things to do in each state.

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Alabama: Visit Birmingham Botanical Garden (Birmingham)

In the heart of Birmingham, the Botanical Garden stretches across 67 acres and features beautiful green spaces that showcase the many plants that live and thrive in the South. Admission is free, and the garden is open daily.

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Alaska: Hike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (Anchorage)

Hikers will love the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage, which winds 11 miles along the coast. The hike provides incredible views of downtown Anchorage, mountains, and Fire Island — and you just might catch a moose crossing the trail nearby.

Arizona: Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross (Sedona)

Taking a drive through Sedona alone is enough to keep you both entertained and mystified by natural beauty for a day. However, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is quite a stunning (and free) site to see. The massive cross stands out among two towers of red stone, and its chapel offers breathtaking views.

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Arkansas: Visit Hot Springs National Park (Hot Springs)

A national park that doesn’t require a fee, Hot Springs boasts stunning ancient thermal springs, beautiful mountain views, incredible hikes, and much more. Guests also tend to be in awe of the nine historic bathhouses, including the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Center.

California: Walk/bike the Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco)

California is a massive state so it’s difficult to pick just one free attraction, but walking or biking across the famed Golden Gate Bridge is a big draw for many who travel to the Bay Area. In fact, about 10 million people visit the stunning bridge every year.

Colorado: Explore the Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)

The rock formations at Garden of the Gods are natural wonders you have to see to believe and can do so for free if you happen to be in the Colorado Springs area. The land’s owner took steps to ensure it would remain free and open to the public before he passed in 1907.

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Connecticut: Visit the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden (West Hartford)

The beautiful Helen S Kaman Rose Garden in the center of Elizabeth Park first opened back in 1904 and has been delighting visitors ever since. For a fun and free afternoon, check out more than 800 different varieties of roses.

Delaware: Stroll Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk (Rehoboth Beach)

Rehoboth Beach’s mile-long boardwalk brings visitors from far and wide (and, of course, nearby). With its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, the quaint beach boardwalk features plenty of things you can spend money on, but taking a free stroll makes for a lovely afternoon.

Florida: Visit Disney Springs (Orlando)

With nearly 100 shops, plenty of great places to eat, and dozens of other attractions, Disney Springs is a fun alternative to the many pricier activities one can get into in Orlando. Visitors can be entertained for hours just walking around the town square-style pathways.

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Georgia: Explore Piedmont Park (Atlanta)

There’s plenty to do at Piedmont Park, a more-than-200 acre Oasis in Atlanta, including many walking paths, dog parks, playgrounds, farmer’s markets, and even a public swimming pool. The park is free to visit, but you will have to shell out $5 for access to the pool in the summer.

Hawaii: Visit Waikiki Beach (Hawaii)

There are many beautiful free beaches along Hawaii’s breathtaking shores, but Waikiki Beach is a particularly popular spot. From the beautiful white sands to the stunning view of Diamond Head State Monument in the distance, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax.

Idaho: Hike or bike Snake River Canyon (Twin Falls)

Snake River Canyon is located on the north side of Twin Falls, offering an eight-mile trail where hikers and bikers can enjoy much natural beauty, including incredible views of Shoshone Falls (often referred to as the Niagara of the West).

Illinois: Visit Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago)

Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the only free zoos in the country. Nature lovers can explore the zoo’s nearly 49-acres, which display an array of different plant species, and the zoo has nearly 200 species from around the world.

Indiana: Check out Indianapolis Art Center ARTSPARK (Indianapolis)

Indianapolis Art Center’s ARTSPARK, a 9.5-acre open-air museum full of beautiful sculptures, is free and open to the public from dawn until dusk. Visitors can explore the installations, hang out on the grounds, picnic, and more.

Iowa: Visit the Des Moines Art Center (Des Moines)

Visitors can find both modern and contemporary art located at the stunning Des Moines Art Center, as well as the 4.4-acre John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Admission to both is always free.

Kansas: Check out the Keeper of the Plains (Wichita)

The Keeper of the Plains, a stunning 44-foot steel structure that stands at the point where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers meet, was designed by Native American Artist Blackbear Bosin in the 1970s. Visitors can also check out the Mid-America All-Indian Museum nearby.

Kentucky: Stroll through the Big Four Bridge (Louisville)

There’s plenty to do at Big Four Bridge Waterfront Park beyond just taking in the awe-inspiring bridge that connects the park to Jefferson, Indiana. Visitors can enjoy stunning artwork and tranquil grounds — plus, the bridge is also a great place to take in the sunset.

Louisiana: Explore the French Quarter (New Orleans)

There are many places to spend your money in the French Quarter — from artisan cocktail bars to world-renowned eateries — but you can absolutely spend a day (or more) in the area and not spend a dollar as the architecture, ambiance, and bustling streets will keep you entertained.

Maine: Check out the Portland Freedom Trail (Portland)

Many are unaware that Portland, Maine, played a key role in helping formerly enslaved people travel through the U.S. into Canada. Visitors to the Portland area can get an interesting history lesson by doing the self-guided walking tour of the Portland Freedom Trail.

Maryland: Explore Baltimore Museum of Art (Baltimore)

The Baltimore Museum of Art has a massive collection of world-renowned artists, from 18th and 19th-century greats to contemporary gems — and admission is completely free. The museum also has a sculpture garden featuring 33 works across three acres.

Massachusetts: Walk the Freedom Trail (Boston)

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile journey that takes visitors to 16 historical sites, including museums, churches, meeting houses, and parks. There’s no charge to visit the trail, however some of the historic sites do charge entry fees.

Michigan: Visit Belle Isle Park (Detroit)

Belle Isle Park is a large island park located in the Detroit River. Among the natural beauty, visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Detroit on one end and Canada on the other. It’s free for pedestrians and cyclists to enter the park, but drivers will need a special pass.

Minnesota: Explore Minnehaha Regional Park (Minneapolis)

A great way to explore some of Minneapolis’s natural beauty, Minnehaha Regional Park features a beautiful waterfall, limestone bluffs, and stunning river overlooks — and is completely free to visit.

Mississippi: Check out Bay St. Louis Beaches (Bay St. Louis)

Bay St. Louis is a delightful seaside town where guests can enjoy mostly free beaches where crowds tend to be thin. Aside from enjoying the beaches, there are many other free things to do in town, like visiting the Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum.

Missouri: Visit the Gateway Arch Park (St. Louis)

It’s free to gaze at the stunning Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the US, and to explore the Museum and Visitor Center. However, there is a fee if you plan to take a tram ride to the top of the Arch.

Montana: Hike Ousel Falls Trail (Big Sky)

A relatively simple hike that leads to the stunning Ousel Falls, this trail takes hikers from Big Sky Town Center to Ousel Falls Park. The trail, which is about 1.6 miles long, provides plenty of great photo ops on the way to the 100-foot waterfall.

Nebraska: Visit the Sunken Gardens (Lincoln)

Once a neighborhood dumpsite, this 1.5-acre space was transformed into a beautiful garden nearly a century ago. Visitors can enjoy stunning art installations, a delightful combination of greenery, tranquil lily ponds, and more. Admission is free, but visitors may donate if they wish.

Nevada: Explore the Las Vegas Strip (Las Vegas)

If you can resist heading into the casinos or array of fine-dining restaurants, there are many free things to do in Vegas, including exploring the world-famous Strip. While on the Strip, check out other free attractions like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden.

New Hampshire: Drive along Kancamagus Highway (Lincoln)

The natural beauty is the draw on this stunning 34.5-mile drive from Lincoln to Conway. From east to west, drivers are taken on winding roads through the White Mountains. For those who want to get up close and personal with nature, there are hiking trails and campgrounds.

New Jersey: Visit the Wildwoods Boardwalk and beaches (Wildwood)

Many of the Jersey Shore beaches charge for day passes, but the five miles of beaches in the Wildwoods are completely free. After spending a day on the beach, it’s also free to stroll along the massive boardwalk, which features 38 blocks of restaurants, shops, and rides.

New Mexico: Stroll through Old Town (Albuquerque)

Old Town, a historic site founded in 1706 and housed between the Sandia mountains and three volcanoes, has plenty to keep visitors entertained — like restaurants, museums, and boutiques. Strolling around the town and taking in all the sites is completely free.

New York: Explore Central Park (New York City)

Each year, millions of visitors descend on New York City’s massive Central Park. The 843-acre greenspace, located right in the middle of Manhattan, is an excellent place to go on a walk or jog, relax, and enjoy an array of greenery — plus, it’s one of the city’s best spots for people watching.

North Carolina: Visit Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is partially in North Carolina and partially in Tennessee. For those in the area, the free park has plenty to offer — from its rich history dating back to prehistoric times to its stunning mountain views.

North Dakota: Check out the Roger Maris Museum (Fargo)

A museum honoring Yankees legend Roger Maris, who broke Babe Ruth’s home run record in 1961, opened in the West Acres shopping center back in 1984. At the famed athlete’s own request, the museum in his hometown of Fargo has remained free and open to the public.

Ohio: Stroll through the Cleveland Metroparks (Cleveland)

Cleveland Metroparks includes 25,000 acres across 18 reservations in Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township. With more than 300 miles of trails, nine golf courses, and eight lakefront parks, there’s truly something for everyone in the Metroparks.

Oklahoma: Check out the Blue Whale along Route 66 (Catoosa)

Oklahoma is home to the largest drivable stretch of the famed Route 66 and there are plenty of fascinating places to stop along the way — including the Blue Whale. This quirky roadside stop sits on 23.5 acres of land where those passing through can hang out, picnic, and more.

Oregon: Explore the International Rose Test Garden (Portland)

From May through October each year, visitors to Portland’s Washington Park can enjoy more than 10,000 rose bushes in beautiful bloom. The garden includes more than 600 different varieties of roses and it’s completely free to take a leisurely walk through the gardens.

Pennsylvania: Snap a photo with the Rocky Statue (Philadelphia)

The Rocky Statue and steps (the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps Rocky famously runs up in the films) are a big draw for visitors to Philly. The statue, which depicts the film’s protagonist Rocky Balboa with boxing gloves raised in the air, makes for a great photo op.

Rhode Island: Explore WaterFire (Providence)

WaterFire includes more than 80 bonfires installed across the three rivers in downtown Providence. Locals and visitors alike praise the installation and the beauty sparked when the flames sparkle across the waters at night. Lighting events are always free.

South Carolina: Visit White Point Garden (Charleston)

In the heart of Charleston’s historic downtown district, White Point Garden has plenty of beautiful green space to enjoy, as well as historical landmarks like Civil War cannons, monuments, and statues. Visiting the garden is an excellent (and free) way to while away a sunny afternoon.

South Dakota: Wander around Falls Park (Sioux Falls)

Anyone passing through Sioux Falls should consider making a stop at Falls Park to see why the city got its name. It’s completely free to visit the park, and guests tend to find themselves in awe of the 100-foot falls (and the 128 acres of stunning nature that surround them).

Tennessee: Stroll along the Beale Street (Memphis)

Beale Street has a rich history as a gathering place for Black businesses, artists, and more. While there’s plenty to spend money on, visitors can also simply wander the street, taking in the incredible music, dining, nightlife, and art scenes.

Texas: Explore the San Antonio River Walk (San Antonio)

There will be plenty going on at the San Antonio River Walk no matter when you visit. From parades and artisan markets to outdoor recreation and stunning views (and photo ops), the River Walk is a great place to enjoy a free afternoon (if you can resist the many delicious restaurants).

Utah: Check out Temple Square (Salt Lake City)

A site to see even for those who are not religious, Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City is a historical landmark for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The square includes five city blocks with many historical sites, exhibits, gardens, and more.

Vermont: Visit Church Street Marketplace (Burlington)

Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace in four blocks full of shops, restaurants, local businesses, and more. It’s a great place to window shop, catch street entertainers and/or vendors, or simply hang out and relax (or do some people watching).

Virginia: Stroll the Virginia Beach Boardwalk (Virginia Beach)

While there’s plenty of activities to get into along Virginia Beach’s three-mile boardwalk, taking a nice stroll down the boards is a great way to spend a few free hours. Visitors can check out stunning artwork and views or pop into one of many restaurants or shops.

Washington: Explore Pike Place Market (Seattle)

Stretching across nine acres in downtown Seattle, the Pike Place Market has been a staple in the area for more than a century. Visitors will find plenty of places to shop, eat, and explore throughout the market, and may also just want to stroll through it free of charge.

West Virginia: Visit the New River Gorge (Glen Jean)

New River Gorge Bridge is a stunning work of architecture (and makes for great photos). New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is completely free of charge and guests can visit the Canyon Rim Visitor Center to walk the boardwalk paths for a great view of the bridge.

Wisconsin: Stroll the Milwaukee Riverwalk (Milwaukee)

Visitors can enjoy more than three miles of scenic views along the Milwaukee Riverwalk, which is free and open to the public 24 hours a day. The stunning walk takes visitors from the former North Avenue Dam to Lake Michigan, and they can enjoy the vibrant downtown and historic districts.

Wyoming: Check out Jackson Town Square (Jackson)

Jackson Town Square sits at the center of culture and business in the area. Guests can take a leisurely stroll, enjoying the stunning arches made from elk antlers, check out local restaurants and art galleries, and in the summer, the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum even offers free walking tours.

Bottom line

Vacation planning may seem daunting when you look at the price tags for many activities, but there are many more sites, events, works of art, and natural wonders that visitors can check out completely free of charge across the US.

For those things that you do have to pay for, though, be sure to use one of the top travel cards to make the most of each dollar spent.

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 7 things to do if you're scraping by financially.
• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• Are you a homeowner? Get a protection plan on all your appliances.

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The 25 top things to do in colorado, according to a local.

Expect plenty of epic adventures and spectacular scenery in Colorado.

Top Things to Do in Colorado

Getty Images

Adventurous travelers will find a home in Colorado. Snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons create a rugged yet stunning landscape well worth exploring. Meanwhile, cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs provide a taste of culture – and plenty of relaxing activities for those not up for hiking or skiing. Read on for the top things to do in the Centennial State.

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park's flat lake trails – such as Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake trail and the Lake Irene trail – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 4.1-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 744 feet of elevation gain. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.

Don't miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, and it's known as the highest continuous paved road in the country. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, according to visitors, but that doesn't mean it's not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.

Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that backpacking requires a wilderness permit. If you're planning to visit multiple national parks in a year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass .

Insider tip: The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.

The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants, historical sites and top-notch views. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you're visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The many unique tour offerings , including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around.

When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find breweries and bars. Some top-rated breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado's capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives .

In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week's most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.

Insider tip: In terms of food and drink, you can't go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you're a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase – or Retrograde, where you enter the space-themed bar through a freezer in the Frozen Matter ice cream shop.

Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

While you won't find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn't mean you can't try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won't work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you'll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also a top Colorado camping location .

Insider tip: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.

Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel

An inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining," The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America . The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie.

Despite these sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It touts renovated premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There's plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding , attending the fall Elk Fest and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.

Insider tip: Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517

Garden of the Gods

There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods , located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs , one of which is hiking. Some highly recommended hiking routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.

Jeep tours are another way to explore Garden of the Gods. Visitors can take a 90-minute narrated Jeep tour to Balanced Rock and hear about the history of the park; embark on a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie's Queens Canyon and enjoy a scenic overlook; or ride to waterfalls, tunnels and other picturesque areas on a two-hour excursion. Or, step back in time with a trolley tour, offered hourly.

Insider tip: After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.

Summit Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, a 14er located approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including "America the Beautiful." You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).

Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery before boarding the train down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.

The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail, which is about a 25-mile round trip. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at 14.5 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Plus, you can reward yourself with a Pikes Peak doughnut or other treat at the Summit Visitor Center, which sits at 14,115 feet in elevation.

Insider tip: Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you're hiking, make sure you're descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning.

Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 25 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction , as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You'll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.

Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don't forget to grab a drink at one of the city's many breweries in between meals. If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado .

If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you're not in the mood to climb or hike.

Insider tip: A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, touring the Celestial Seasonings tea factory is a blast and includes free tea sampling.

Mesa Verde National Park

It's not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until finally abandoning them in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes.

During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – the largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which boasts sweeping views of the park. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.4-mile loop) is also popular, as you can admire the petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.

Ski in Aspen

Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country's largest ski resorts , one of Colorado's top ski destinations and one of Aspen's most popular attractions . The resort offers more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and nearly 50 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons.

Even if you're not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You'll find skiers flocking to the town's lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.

Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue's acoustics, saying it's one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when your favorite artists are performing.

Even if you can't make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide trails (3 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents drive-in movie events and morning yoga sessions.

Insider tip: You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465

Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs

The small town of Glenwood Springs is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town's fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn't require reservations.

Another option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 17 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance. The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is another thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it's one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.

Go whitewater rafting

The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.

Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip to Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. The Pine Creek route, which originates near the Granite Gorge, is another strenuous option for advanced rafters. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won't see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride . The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The free gondola is also a great activity, as it'll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.

While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

There are many theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it's certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that's known as the "Switzerland of America" thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.

The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you're scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.

Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This top Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. On the sandy shores of the lake, you'll find plenty of kids playing, adults sunbathing, and maybe even a moose or two testing the waters.

Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level. The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing and ice hockey.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn't have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you're driving, you can see it all in a day – though there's a good chance it'll take a long drive to get there, as it's located about 260 miles from Denver.

When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.

Insider tip: Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don't offer much in the way of shade. Also, make sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.

The train from Durango to Silverton takes less than four hours; passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the train ride back. You'll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling.

Breckenridge

If you're looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don't plan on hitting the slopes.

Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails – such as the highly rated McCullough Gulch Trail, the Hoosier Pass Loop and the Sawmill Reservoir trail.

Insider tip: A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can't be beat. Give the lamb a try; it's spectacular!

Visit Colorado's wine country

Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries . However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state's "wine country" is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.

You'll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. According to recent visitors, some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado's wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction , most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.

Insider tip: A stay at Palisade's Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado . Make sure to take advantage of the property's daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca.

While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.

Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you're looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you'd rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park , located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don't worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,100 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you're still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.

There's an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds.

Address: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212

Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs

This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and four terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features several designated pools as well as two waterslides open seasonally. If you're not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities , including cross-country skiing , horseback riding, snowmobiling , ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

If you're planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs , recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern appliances and gorgeous views.

Go leaf peeping

The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots ). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there's an early freeze.

Insider tip: If you're heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular "Crack Fries."

Drive the highest road in North America

The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You'll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.

Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you're an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it's one of the more popular 14ers to climb.

Experience small-town life in Salida

Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. As you walk down F Street, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. The downtown area is the state's largest historic district. At the end of the street, you'll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:

• Take the family dog-sledding
• Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
• Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
• Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
• Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
• Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
• Explore more than 70 installations at Meow Wolf

It's no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:

• Rock climb in Eldorado State Park (and receive a stamp in your Colorado Parks Passport )
• Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
• Visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
• Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
• See the stunning Maroon Bells
• Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
• Hike around Dinosaur National Monument

And plenty of other activities await if you're not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:

• Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
• Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
• Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
• Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
• Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence Ghost Town near Aspen

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson has lived in Colorado for most of her life, including four years in Boulder while she attended the University of Colorado Boulder . She spends her free time hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing and paddleboarding around the state, and has experienced much on this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Colorado News | How to see the April solar eclipse in Colorado

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Colorado News

Protective solar eclipse glasses are essential in denver.

Can I see the eclipse in Colorado?

Yes. While Colorado is outside the path of the total eclipse on April 8, a partial eclipse (with a maximum of about 65% of the sun covered at 12:40 p.m.) will be visible in Denver. The eclipse will begin in Denver at 11:28 a.m. and end at 1:53 p.m.

In southeastern Colorado, residents may see up to 75% of the sun covered — the most in the state — and people in northwestern Colorado will see less than 60% coverage. Colorado Springs area residents will see 67% coverage of the sun.

How dark will it get here?

Dimming and shadows can be expected as the moon partially blocks the sun.

Where can I see the total eclipse?

In the United States, the path will stretch across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. NASA scientists estimate 31 million people in the United States live in the path of the eclipse, compared with 12 million in the path of the 2017 eclipse .

Will solar eclipse protective eyeglasses be necessary in Colorado?

Yes. The sun’s surface won’t be fully obscured in Colorado so viewing requires solar eclipse glasses.

Where can I get those?

The Denver Astronomical Society is selling eclipse glasses, in addition to many stores.

Where can I learn more?

Before the eclipse, astronomy experts at the University of Colorado’s Fiske Planetarium plan presentations on Saturday and Sunday .

And on Monday, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science plans several eclipse-related events between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Shows inside the Gates Planetarium are sold out, but the museum will set up telescopes and provide sun-spotter cards outside on Boettcher Plaza around the time of the eclipse.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Where to buy solar eclipse glasses near me? Some locations may still have glasses for last-minute eclipse watchers

Today's the day when the moon's shadow will (partially) blot out the sun for millions of Floridians, and some of them may still be scrambling for eclipse glasses so they can safely look at it without frying their eyes. Where can you still find them?

You may have to call around, or do some driving. Many retail locations have been selling solar eclipse glasses this year and some places have been giving them away, but availability is "while supplies last" and that will be different for every place.

There's an eclipse today? The procrastinator's guide to viewing the solar eclipse in Florida

Where can I find eclipse glasses?

Here are some places to check. Remember, some may have sold out, and not all locations may have been carrying them. Make sure any eclipse glasses you buy are legitimate and include an ISO rating, an ISO number and an address, avoid any that say "NASA Approved," and test them before you look up .

7-Eleven, Buc-ee's, Circle K and more

You may not have to go farther than the end of your street. Many convenience stores and gas stations have been carrying eclipse glasses and may still have some in stock.

Eclipse glasses have been spotted at 7-Eleven , Circle K, and Buc-ee's locations and many individual stores may have jumped on the opportunity.

Fake eclipse glases on sale online: Are yours safe? How to test before the April solar eclipse

Big chain stores such as Walmart, Lowes

Walmart has offered a wide variety of eclipse glasses in different styles, so has Target . However, all of the glasses on their websites are shipping only which will be a little late, so check your local store for availability.

Some other places where eclipse glasses have been spotted:

• Ace Hardware
• Cracker Barrel

Does Publix have eclipse glasses?

No, Publix did not carry eclipse glasses this year, according to a local customer service rep.

Warby Parker, Sonic offering free eclipse glasses

Prescription eyeglasses retailer Warby Parker began handing out free eclipse glasses at their locations on April 1 so definitely call first.

Sonic Drive-in locations are offering free eclipse glasses with the purchase of their new Blackout Sonic Float.

Does Amazon offer same-day delivery of eclipse glasses?

Online stores are great for fast service, but you may want to give it a miss this time. The   American Astronomical Society (AAS) does not recommend buying eclipse glasses online due to the number of counterfeit, unsafe glasses that have hit the market this year.

Shooting the eclipse with your phone: Can I take a photo of the eclipse with my phone? Yes, but take these steps so you don't fry it

Do I need to wear solar eclipse glasses?

If you plan to look directly at the sun, yes. Even a brief glance may cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyes and eyesight.

"Do NOT look at the Sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer," NASA advises . "The concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury."

How can I tell if my eclipse glasses are legitimate?

If you didn't buy your eclipse glasses directly from one of the vetted venders on the AAS list or a trusted source, check the text on the glasses for the  ISO 12312-2 standard listing and the address of the company. But these can be copied.

Don't trust any glasses that say they are NASA Approved . NASA doesn't do that.

Test your glasses first by putting them on inside and looking at a strong light source. You shouldn't be able to see anything, according to the AAS, although very bright lights may show up but would be very faint.

Go outside, put them on, and look at sunlight reflections or glance at the sun very quickly. You shouldn't see anything around you and the sun should appear to be a "sharp-edged, round disk" that's comfortably bright.

Can I watch the eclipse without looking at it?

Yes! If you don't manage to get glasses in time, there are several ways to see the eclipse that won't risk your eyes with items you probably have around the home.

Anything with a round hole in it can be held up to cast an image of the eclipse onto the ground or a sheet of white paper. Pinhole projectors, colanders, a slotted spoon, a Ritz cracker, even lacing your fingers together.

Or you can look under a tree. The sun shining through tree leaves and branches creates its own pinhole projector, casting lots of little crescent-moon shapes on the ground.

What time is the eclipse in Florida?

The eclipse will last roughly 2½ hours in Florida, starting around 1:40 p.m. EDT and ending around 4:17 EDT. The time of maximum coverage will be just before 3 p.m. EDT for most of the state.

You can find eclipse times for your ZIP code on the map below, just tap your location:

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, watch live: total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A total solar eclipse is crossing from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States on Monday.

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT. Precisely when you'll be able to see the eclipse — and what kind of eclipse you'll be able to see — will depend on your location and time zone. More on that here .

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

Livestreams from along the path of totality

View from Vermont

Vermont Public will livestream views of the eclipse from the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Tune in starting at 3 p.m. ET.

View from New Hampshire

NHPBS will livestream the solar eclipse from Lancaster, N.H. starting at 12 p.m. ET.

View from Maine

Maine Public will livestream from Mars Hill, Maine, starting at 2:30 p.m.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.