best places to visit in colorado outdoors

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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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

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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

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colorado, USA

Written by Lana Law Updated May 26, 2022

Colorado is a year-round destination that piques the imagination and inspires the soul with its dramatic landscape and natural beauty. The state is nothing less than stunning, with a diversity that ranges from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the rolling hills, beautiful alpine lakes , rivers, waterfalls , and the high desert of the Colorado Plateau.

Mountain towns beckon skiers, hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types, but are also great places to soak up some tranquility and enjoy the mountain vibe.

Sightseers will find the scenic drives through parks and along state highways are some of the best ways to see the amazing sites that the state has to offer.

Remnants of the cultures that inhabited the area and the dinosaurs that once roamed the land can be seen and better understood by visiting some of the national parks and monuments .

Colorado is an unbeatable destination that will make you rethink your future travel plans. Get a start on your itinerary with our list of the best places to visit in Colorado.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

2. vail and nearby mountain towns, 4. mesa verde national park, 5. pikes peak in pike national forest, 6. garden of the gods, 7. durango and the silverton narrow gauge railway, 8. san juan skyway scenic byway and the million dollar highway, 9. black canyon of the gunnison national park, 10. maroon bells-snowmass wilderness, 11. great sand dunes national park and preserve, 13. colorado national monument, 14. dinosaur national monument, 15. glenwood springs, 16. mount evans scenic byway, 17. mountain biking trails near fruita.

Just a few miles from the mountain town of Estes Park , Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States.

The soaring mountain peaks, alpine lakes and meadows, forests, and abundant wildlife showcase nature at its best. The park has more than 100 peaks over 10,000 feet, including Longs Peak , the highest in the park, at 14,259 feet.

The Trail Ridge Road , which itself reaches an altitude of more than 12,000 feet, is the main driving route through the park and offers easy access to this incredible terrain. You can sightsee from the comfort of your car or stop off along the way for a hike or easy walk.

The park has an extensive system of hiking trails that range from paths of less than a half-mile to full-day and multi-day hikes. If you're lucky, you may see elk, bighorn sheep, deer, and other critters.

Summer is the busy season in Rocky Mountain National Park, with the most popular activities being hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, fishing, horseback riding, climbing, and bouldering.

Winter in the park holds its own unique beauty and attractions. Many of the roads are open year-round, although closures may occur due to weather conditions. People often come here at this time of year to snowshoe or cross-country ski, and ranger-led tours are offered in both of these sports.

If you plan on visiting in the summer, between late May and early October, you will need to obtain a timed entry pass. Passes for specific days are available on the National Parks website the 1st of the prior month (i.e. June 1st for the month of July). If you have a camping or other activity reservation, an entry pass is not required. Timed entry passes are free, except for the nominal reservation fee.

Official site: www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

The ski resort town of Vail is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter but it's also a pleasant place to enjoy at any time of year. When it comes to skiing, this is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado , with seemingly endless runs for all levels of skiers.

The town at the base of the ski hill is postcard cute, with chalet-style restaurants, shops, and hotels that make you feel like you are in the heart of the Alps. This is a high-end resort with luxury hotels, fine dining, and designer stores.

Vail doesn't always fit with everyone's budget, particularly if you want to spend a night during the high season. In the vicinity are a number of small towns and villages that are less well known but more affordable and also worth a visit.

Although not a ski resort, Frisco is a charming mountain town and one of the best places to visit in the area. This is a nice base if you are exploring the I-70 Corridor around Vail and Beaver Creek. The town has all kinds of quirky cafés, shops, and restaurants, and a true mountain vibe.

Just up the way from here is the town of Breckenridge at an altitude of 9,600 feet. This town has a very casual and fun downtown and is perfect if you plan on skiing at Breckenridge Ski Resort or looking for a little nightlife.

West of Vail are the towns of Avon and, a little beyond Avon, Beaver Creek . Avon can be a good place to find accommodation, particularly if you are looking for more affordable options than those at the base of the ski hills. Beaver Creek is a ski resort with another adorable village at the base. It has a full range of restaurants, from casual to fine dining, a skating rink in the main square in winter, and hotels.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Vail, CO

One of America's most popular and fastest growing cities, Denver has it going on. One of the country's great outdoor cities, Denver enjoys an incredible 300-plus days of sunshine a year and a reasonable climate.

This allows the young and active inhabitants to enjoy the giant playground right at the door to the city: the incredible Rocky Mountains. Favorite pastimes here are to hit the ski slopes in the winter , or lace up the hiking boots in the spring, or get out on a mountain bikes in the summer.

When they aren't getting busy outdoors, Denverites are enjoying a lively arts and cultural scene at the Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, or enjoying some creative cuisine at one of the city's most happening restaurants in the Latimer Square area. The city is also full of great parks and the interesting downtown area is well worth exploring.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Denver, CO

Regardless of whether or not you have seen cliff dwellings before, you will be blown away by Mesa Verde and the amount of access to the actual ruins that the park allows visitors.

The park's centerpiece, Cliff Palace is one of the most impressive dwellings in the entire Southwest, with a dramatic setting and incredibly preserved ruins. Ranger-led tours, which run regularly during the summer high season, allow you to climb ladders right up into the heart of the dwelling. It is highly recommended that you pre-book your Cliff Palace visitor tickets in advance of your visit. Spaces are limited and demand is high, especially in the summer. Tickets can be booked 14 days in advance of your planned arrival date.

If you aren't up for that level of activity, you can get a full view of the site from a nearby overlook.

Mesa Verde was home to the Ancestral Pueblo who inhabited the dwellings from approximately 600 AD to 1300 AD. Thousands of archeological sites lie within the park, although the cliff dwellings are the most spectacular. A road allows access to numerous sites, many of which are on top of the mesa. A number of hiking trails, which do not require a ranger tour, lead to lookouts and interesting sites, including petroglyphs.

Located near the towns of Cortez and Mancos , Mesa Verde is reached by a long road that leads high up above the surrounding landscape. The drive from the highway up to the site takes about 45 minutes.

Near the highway is one of the visitor centers , where you can get information on the park and road conditions before driving up. You can book a ranger-led tour of Cliff Palace when you arrive so you know what time to show up for the one-hour tour.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm

• Read More: Visiting Mesa Verde National Park: Top Things to See & Do

At 14,115 feet in elevation, Pikes Peak, in Pike National Forest, is one of the Southwest's famous "fourteeners," a reference to mountains that stand over 14,000 feet. The snow-capped peak is easily recognizable from the nearby town of Colorado Springs.

This is one of the most visited mountains in the world , second only to Mt. Fuji. Unlike many mountain peaks that are inaccessible to the average person, you can drive to the summit of Pikes Peak on the Pikes Peak Highway, off highway 24, west of Colorado Springs. Travel time is about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a scenic 8.9-mile trip, with a round-trip time of just over three hours.

At the top is the brand new Pike's Peak Summit Visitor's Center. Started in 2018 and now almost complete, this stunning glass and wood structure provides amazing views, interactive displays, along with a variety of dining options. Those folks who specifically make the trek up to the top of Pike's Peak for the world famous donuts will not be disappointed. These tasty, fluffy treats are still available.

In addition to simply appreciating the views from the top, the area offers a range of recreational opportunities. In the vicinity are numerous hiking trails, as well as mountain biking areas and opportunities for fishing in reservoirs.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/psicc

• Read More: Best Attractions in Colorado Springs

Also near Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods. This registered National Natural Landmark is home to a unique landscape of jagged stone towers and fins jutting up 300 feet from the earth. Surrounding the fins, giant balanced boulders and rock piles dot the landscape and distant mountains, completing the scene.

Fifteen miles of walking trails , most of which are short and easy, allow you to get up close to the dramatic rock formations and wander through the surreal scenery.

The park is a popular area for rock climbing , but other activities in the park include road biking in designated biking lanes, mountain biking , and horseback riding . Jeep tours are also very popular.

The Garden of the Gods Park Visitor & Nature Center functions as a museum with exhibits and a 20-minute video on the geology of the park. They also offer daily guided nature walks . Views from the visitor center are incredible, and the on-site café, with huge windows, is a great venue for enjoying a snack or beverage.

Official site: http://www.gardenofgods.com

In southern Colorado, the town of Durango has a lovely setting at the base of surrounding mountains. The historic downtown area has some well-restored, grand old buildings that function as hotels and restaurants. Some are done in southwestern décor, with an Old West feel.

In the summer, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gage Railway is one of the town's main tourist attractions. This historic train runs day trips up the valley from Durango to the old mining town of Silverton, high in the mountains. In the winter, the train still runs but only on specific dates and only to Cascade Canyon. It's a much different experience than the summer trip, but well worth checking out.

Durango is also the terminus of the Colorado Trail , a 500-mile-long backcountry trail that runs from Denver to Durango. You can do a day hike or mountain bike along the trail, going out and back the same way. The trail follows the scenic Junction Creek and then climbs up to Gudy's Rest, where many people enjoy lunch and then turn around.

More hiking and mountain biking trails can be found right in the town of Durango and in the surrounding mountains.

In winter, Durango is a full-on ski town, supported by the nearby Purgatory Ski Resort , just 15 minutes outside of town. This is a family resort that attracts both locals and skiers from around the Southwest. Some skiers also base themselves in Durango, which has reasonably-priced hotels, and ski at Telluride , two hours away.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Durango

A spectacular scenic drive stretches from the old mining town of Silverton, to the town of Ouray, along what is called the Million Dollar Highway . This is a 46-kilometer two-lane highway that hugs the mountainside in places and looks out over jaw-dropping cliffs and across valleys to inspiring mountain peaks. It is one of the most spectacular mountain drives in Colorado.

If you have time, you can extend this into a longer route and drive the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway . The Skyway is a full-day trip that you will want to do in good weather, but can be done in winter or summer.

Beginning in Durango, the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a complete loop that will take you up to Silverton, along the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray, over to Placerville, south to Telluride, Dolores, Mancos, and back to Durango .

If you have less time or are only planning on heading in one direction, you can do the Silverton to Ouray section beginning from Durango, up to Silverton, over the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray, and beyond to Montrose or further north to Grand Junction. Some of the highlights along the way are the towns of Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride.

Set at more than 9,300 feet and surrounded by mountains, Silverton has one main street with a few shops and restaurants. In summer, it can be ridiculously busy, but in winter, most of the establishments are closed, and the place can feel like a ghost town. On the edge of town, Silverton Mountain is an old school ski "resort" with great backcountry downhill skiing for advanced skiers.

Ouray , with a sign at the main lookout calling it the "Switzerland of America," is another mountain town, known for its hot springs.

If you choose to do the Skyway, you can stop in at Telluride . Known for the Telluride Ski Resort, this is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in America, with a traditional main street and gorgeous mountain scenery. You can take a free gondola up the mountain for a better look over the area.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a fabulous, rugged looking canyon, and it's remote enough that it has the feeling of being undiscovered. Steep cliff walls rise up from the Gunnison River, creating a narrow and dramatic canyon. The depth of the canyon is around 2,000 feet, with Gunnison Point and Chasm View at just over 1,800 feet and Warner Point at 2,722 feet.

The main things to do here are to simply gaze out over the canyon and appreciate the environment or wander along the walking paths and short hiking trails on the rim. These are generally flat and easy trails. If you're adventurous, you can hike into the canyon, but trails are not maintained or marked, conditions are difficult, and you are basically on your own and responsible for the costs of rescue, should the need arise.

Three campgrounds are located in the park; the North and South Rim campgrounds are open to tents and RVs but the East Portal is only open to tents.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is about 75 miles southeast of Grand Junction. If you are based in Grand Junction or Fruita, you can easily visit both the canyon and Colorado National Monument on a day trip.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm

Near the town of Aspen, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness showcases some of Colorado's most spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery and offers a chance to get out of your car and into nature. This area has six mountains over 14,000 feet , along with forests, alpine lakes, meadows, and 175 miles of trails to help you explore the terrain.

The recreational activities are what draw most people to Maroon Bells. The hiking here is incredible, with all kinds of day hikes and backpacking areas. Mountain biking trails cover hundreds of miles. Fishing in lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams is popular in summer. If you've got a tent and the gear, camping in Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is an experience not to be missed. In winter, people come here to ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile , making it a year-round outdoor playground.

If you aren't up for that much activity, you can also enjoy the views along some of the scenic drives .

Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America , Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an interesting sight in Colorado with a landscape that most visitors are not expecting to find. The 750-foot Star Dune is startlingly high, particularly when you are considering climbing it, and the mountains in the distance create a stunning setting.

You can climb and slide on the dunes or test your boarding skills cruising down the sand. On hot days, children and even adults enjoy splashing around in the Medano Creek that runs along the base of the dunes. Hiking trails run through the forest on the edge of the dunes.

The four-wheel drive Medano Pass Primitive Road opens up some unique terrain, and car camping sites are located along the roadside. Regular camping is available at the Pinon Flats campground, which offers both tent and RV campsites.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

Although it's most commonly associated with skiing, Aspen is a year-round destination that can be enjoyed by skiers or non-skiers. Restaurants and stores line the streets, many of which look up to the ski runs on the edge of town.

Aspen also makes for a nice getaway from Denver, just over three hours away. The town has no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts, plus dining options are plentiful. If you don't want to stay here, you can day trip from nearby Glenwood Springs, another popular destination in the area.

Read More: From Denver to Aspen: Best Ways to Get There

Just outside the towns of Grand Junction and nearby Fruita is Colorado National Monument. A scenic road snakes its way through some outstanding scenery. This is not typical mountain scenery, but a landscape of huge rock spires, cliff walls, canyons, and desert-like surroundings with small trees and scrubby bushes.

Most people drive through the monument along Rim Rock Drive and stop at the lookouts that peer over the landscape below. The road is also a popular road biking area , with hearty souls peddling their way up to the lookouts.

A number of day hikes access some scenic areas of the monument, most of which involve moderate elevation changes that range from approximately 300 feet to more than 1,000 feet.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/colm/index.htm

Dinosaur National Monument, in northwest Colorado, combines dramatic scenery with natural and cultural history to create one of Colorado's most interesting sites. While most people are drawn here for the archeological aspects, the recreational opportunities add another aspect to your visit.

Dinosaur remains embedded in exposed rock walls reveal evidence of the giants that once roamed these areas, and petroglyphs offer insight into the cultures and people that lived here long ago. Surrounding it all are cliff walls and the Green and Yampa Rivers snaking through the otherwise dry landscape.

Your first stop should be the Quarry Visitors Center from where you can access the main attraction at the park, the Quarry Exhibit Hall , built over the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry. A huge wall of windows allows in natural light, making it feel more like an excavation site than a museum. Fossils are in various states, from still encased in the stone wall to fully assembled skeletons.

Other popular things to do in Dinosaur National Monument range from a simple driving tour through the monument to hiking, fishing, rafting, and camping. A number of scenic drives run through the park on both paved and four-wheel drive roads. Hiking trails range from short nature walks of less than a half mile to eight-mile-long day hikes.

It's easy to spend a few days in this area if you are interested in exploring the park. Campgrounds , some of which are open to both tents and RVs and others open only to tents, are spread around the park. Hotels can be found at nearby Vernal.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/dino/index.htm

With hot springs, a fantastic adventure park, beautiful hiking trails, rafting, fishing, and sking, Glenwood Springs is one of the best places to visit in Colorado for families. That said, anyone will enjoy a visit here, whether it's couples looking for a romantic getaway or nature lovers looking for an outdoor escape.

The town is home to two major hot springs, including the largest mineral host springs pool in the world . On the edge of town is the family-focused Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort , and Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is less than an hour away. In summer, the Hanging Lake hiking trail is incredibly popular.

For water-based activities, the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers provide ample opportunities for whitewater rafting , as well as fly fishing.

If you're looking for something a little less outdoorsy, you can find dining, attractions, and things to do in Glenwood Springs to suit all tastes.

Another of Colorado's fourteeners, Mount Evans reaches an elevation of 14,271, feet and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway extends almost to the summit. This is the highest paved road in the United States , reaching over 14,130 feet.

The views from the top and on the way up, above the tree line, are outstanding, with meadows, lakes, and rolling mountains extending out into the distance. The area is so open and exposed that you have a good chance of seeing wildlife, particularly bighorn sheep.

From Denver, you can reach the summit of Mount Evans, about 60 miles away, in less than two hours. Keep in mind, this is a seasonal highway that is closed in the winter .

For mountain bikers, Colorado is a haven, with great trails all over the state. Unfortunately, the mountain climate limits the season in many areas. But the town of Fruita, near Grand Junction, has the climate to enable you to stretch out your mountain biking season through the shoulder seasons and into the winter months. It's also a quirky little town with enough character to make you want to stay a while and return.

The mountain biking trails around Fruita are some of the best trails in the state. Most notably are the 18 Road Trails , with the infamous Zippity Do Da trail, and the Kokopelli Loops . This is desert terrain, with trails that run along the tops of ridges and everywhere in between or alongside cliff ledges with views over the Colorado River.

This area has, for many mountain bikers, become an alternative to Moab, Utah . During the spring, you can even combine sports: mountain biking in Fruita one day and skiing at Beaver Creek or Vail - just over two hours away - the next.

More on Colorado

21 Best Places To Visit In Colorado (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the best places to visit in Colorado? Here’s our list of top Colorado destinations sure to leave you ready for your trip!

Colorado is a nature and adventure lovers paradise. Filled with breathtaking natural parks, luxurious hot springs, impressive mountain peaks, and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone in Colorado.

We’ve narrowed down the best places to visit in Colorado to the absolute must-sees.

Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on some epic hiking trails or relax in a tranquil mountain village, there are endless amazing places to visit in Colorado.

Take a scenic drive on an impressive route like the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, or admire the history and culture at Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde National Park.

Check out the majestic Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs, or witness towering golden sand dunes in Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Go horseback riding through the forest, hole up in a cozy ski resort, try fly fishing on an alpine lake, or ride a mountain bike down an adrenaline-pumping trail.

Whatever you’re looking for, Colorado has something incredible in store for you!

Table of Contents

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

3. crested butte, 4. glenwood springs, 5. san juan mountains, 6. mesa verde national park, 7. black canyon of the gunnison national park, 9. grand junction, 10. estes park, 11. pagosa springs, 12. colorado national monument, 13. grand lake, 14. mount evans scenic byway, 15. colorado springs, 16. breckenridge, 17. royal gorge bridge, 18. pikes peak, 19. dinosaur national monument, 20. great sand dunes national park, 21. steamboat springs, 21 best places to visit in colorado.

Here is our list of the 21 best places to visit in Colorado! From soaking in hot springs at a ski resort to horseback riding through national parks, to wining and dining the heart of Denver, this diverse and wondrous state is packed with sights and activities for all.

The best way to travel between all the best places to visit in Colorado is with a rental car! You can take public transport between popular cities and towns, but some of the more remote parks and lakes don’t have direct public transport from a city.

We’ll link to a few tours, but they are limited so your best bet is renting a car in Colorado!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Rocky Mountain National Park , located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from around the world.

Established in 1915, this national park spans over 415 square miles and encompasses some of the most rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States. Rocky Mountain National Park is renowned for its towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush meadows teeming with wildlife.

One of its most iconic features is the scenic Trail Ridge Road, a high-altitude highway that traverses the park and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, from subalpine forests to alpine tundra.

Rocky Mountain National Park provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking and biking trails wind through its diverse terrain, catering to both novice and experienced hikers and bikers.

For those seeking a challenge, the park offers some of Colorado’s most famous fourteeners, including Longs Peak, a popular mountaineering and rock climbing destination.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, bighorn sheep, and mule deer among other species, while photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to visit in Colorado, and it’s one of the USA’s most beloved national parks!

Denver , often referred to as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation of exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level, is another one of the best places to visit in Colorado.

As the state’s capital and largest city, Denver boasts a rich history, a thriving cultural scene, and a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.

Downtown Denver is a bustling hub of activity, with a skyline punctuated by modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Denver Art Museum , the Colorado State Capitol, and the bustling 16th Street Mall, which features an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Beyond its urban core, Denver is celebrated for its proximity to the stunning Rocky Mountains, making it a gateway to outdoor recreation. Residents and tourists alike enjoy easy access to hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and ski slopes in the nearby mountains.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre , a world-famous natural music venue just outside the city, offers a unique setting for concerts and events, surrounded by towering sandstone formations.

Denver’s diverse culinary scene is also a highlight, with an abundance of craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and food markets showcasing the city’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Plus there are loads of great day trips from Denver worth adding time to your itinerary!

With its appealing mix of culture, nature, and a friendly, active community, Denver is a city that continuously captivates and inspires its residents and visitors alike.

Find more amazing things to do in Denver with our 3 Day Itinerary !

One of the best places to visit in Colorado for skiing is Crested Butte. Often dubbed the “Last Great Colorado Ski Town,” Crested Butte is a charming town nestled in the Elk Mountains.

Renowned for its pristine natural beauty and vibrant, small-town atmosphere, Crested Butte attracts visitors year-round. During the winter, it transforms into a winter wonderland, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.

Crested Butte Mountain Resort provides access to a diverse range of slopes for all skill levels, and the mountain town itself exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance with its colorful Victorian-style buildings, making it a picturesque backdrop for apres-ski relaxation.

In the summer, Crested Butte’s wildflower-strewn meadows and lush forests come alive with outdoor adventures. Hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts can explore an extensive network of trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, and the nearby Gunnison National Forest offers pristine wilderness for camping, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

Additionally, the town is famous for hosting unique festivals, including the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival and the Crested Butte Music Festival, which celebrate the town’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush on the slopes or a tranquil escape in the mountains, Crested Butte offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and small-town charm for visitors to savor throughout the year.

Another one of the top places to visit in Colorado is Glenwood Springs, a picturesque mountain village celebrated for its stunning natural attractions and unique recreational offerings.

One of its most famous features is the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. This natural wonder offers year-round relaxation in its soothing, geothermally heated waters and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

In addition to the hot springs, Glenwood Springs is home to the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, where visitors can experience the healing properties of underground steam baths in natural caves, a practice that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Glenwood Springs is also renowned for its access to outdoor adventure. The surrounding Roaring Fork Valley and White River National Forest offer a plethora of hiking trails and mountain biking trails as well as places to go fishing and whitewater rafting.

The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, perched on Iron Mountain, provides thrill-seekers with a unique combination of cave tours and amusement park rides, making it a fantastic family-friendly attraction.

The town is also the gateway to the world-famous Hanging Lake. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hanging Lake is suspended on the edge of Glenwood Canyon, accessible via a challenging but rewarding hike.

From iconic natural sights like Hanging Lake and Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Glenwood Springs offers plenty of ways to relax, explore, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Colorado.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Denver

The San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, are a breathtaking and rugged subrange of the Rocky Mountains.

This mountain range encompasses some of the highest peaks in the Rockies, including Uncompahgre Peak and Mount Sneffels, which tower above 14,000 feet in elevation.

The San Juans are renowned for their dramatic landscapes, characterized by jagged peaks, deep canyons, and lush, forested valleys. These mountains are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, black bears, and bighorn sheep, making them a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

One of the defining features of the region is the San Juan River, a vital waterway that meanders through the mountains, providing not only a source of natural beauty but also excellent fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities.

The San Juan National Forest, which encompasses a substantial portion of the range, offers visitors a pristine wilderness to explore. In the summer, hikers, backpackers, and mountain bikers flock to the San Juan National Forest to explore its extensive network of trails, lakes, and wildflower-strewn meadows.

During the winter months, the San Juan Mountains transform into a snowy playground, with world-class skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Telluride and Silverton Mountain.

Additionally, the region is rich in mining history, and visitors can explore old mining towns like Ouray and Silverton, where remnants of the mining era are well-preserved. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a history buff, the San Juan Mountains offer an incredible range of experiences in one of Colorado’s most captivating and untamed landscapes.

Mesa Verde National Park is a remarkable archaeological treasure that offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient history of North America. It’s one of the best places to visit in Colorado for history lovers!

Established in 1906, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and ruins, which date back over 700 years.

The main attraction in Mesa Verde National Park is its stunning cliffside villages, such as Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Spruce Tree House, which were constructed within natural alcoves in the towering sandstone cliffs.

These dwellings provide a unique window into the lives and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans, who lived in this region from approximately 600 to 1300 AD, and they are some of the most significant archaeological sites in North America.

Exploring Mesa Verde is a journey back in time as visitors can take guided tours, walk along interpretive trails, and learn about the history, architecture, and lifestyle of the ancient inhabitants.

The park also offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert landscape, including expansive views of the Montezuma Valley. Join a tour with an archeological guide so you can learn as much unique history as possible!

In addition to its archaeological wonders, Mesa Verde National Park boasts hiking opportunities, wildlife viewing, and a variety of outdoor activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this extraordinary place.

Mesa Verde National Park stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans and serves as a source of inspiration for those who wish to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of the Native American peoples.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison , situated in western Colorado, is a geological marvel known for its incredibly steep and narrow canyon walls, some of which reach depths of over 2,000 feet (610 meters).

Carved by the mighty Gunnison River over millions of years, this imposing canyon stands as a testament to the relentless power of erosion.

What sets the Black Canyon apart from many other canyons is its dramatic vertical relief and the way the sunlight often only briefly penetrates the narrow gorge, creating a striking interplay of light and shadow on the dark, ancient rock walls.

Visitors to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison can explore its unique landscapes and geology through various viewpoints, hiking trails, and overlooks within the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

The park offers a range of activities, from easy walks along the rim to strenuous hikes into the canyon itself, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The awe-inspiring vistas, roaring river, and challenging terrain make the Black Canyon of the Gunnison an unforgettable destination for those who appreciate the power and beauty of the natural world.

This is one of the most unique and impressive national parks in the state, making it one of the coolest places to visit in Colorado.

Another one of the best places to visit in Colorado is the city of Boulder . A vibrant and progressive city located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is known for its stunning natural surroundings, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a strong emphasis on sustainability and cultural diversity.

Nestled against the backdrop of the Flatirons, a series of dramatic, flat-topped rock formations, Boulder offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The city is a hub for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking, with numerous trails weaving through the nearby mountains and open-space parks.

Chautauqua Park , in particular, is a beloved destination for its trailheads leading to the Flatirons and its scenic picnic areas.

Boulder is also home to the University of Colorado Boulder, contributing to a lively, youthful atmosphere with a diverse range of cultural events and activities.

The city’s iconic Pearl Street Mall, a charming pedestrian mall lined with boutiques, restaurants, and street performers, serves as a focal point for entertainment and community gatherings.

Boulder’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is evident in its bike-friendly infrastructure, public transportation options, and numerous local initiatives. It’s a city where the love for the outdoors and a strong sense of community come together, making Boulder a captivating place to live or visit.

Read More: Check out our top recommended Boulder activities !

One of the best places to visit in western Colorado is the charming city of Grand Junction. Situated at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers, Grand Junction offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and a thriving agricultural scene.

The city is famous for its beautiful red rock landscapes, including the nearby Colorado National Monument, which features towering sandstone cliffs and breathtaking overlooks that provide sweeping views of the valley below.

Grand Junction is also known for its burgeoning wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries dotting the surrounding countryside. The area’s high-altitude vineyards produce a variety of award-winning wines, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.

Additionally, the city hosts the annual Colorado Mountain Winefest, a celebration of Colorado’s viticulture. In the heart of downtown, the historic Main Street district offers a delightful mix of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

With its access to outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting, combined with its cultural offerings and scenic beauty, Grand Junction is one of the best places to visit in Colorado!

Check out our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Colorado for more ideas!

Estes Park is a picturesque mountain town that serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and charming mountain-town atmosphere, Estes Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a serene mountain retreat surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

The town is set against the backdrop of towering peaks, with the iconic Longs Peak looming as the area’s tallest summit. The Big Thompson River meanders through town, adding to its scenic appeal.

Estes Park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors. Hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing are popular pursuits in the surrounding national park, where visitors can encounter elk, deer, and various bird species.

The historic downtown itself features a delightful mix of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore after a day of outdoor activities.

The historic Stanley Hotel, famously known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel “The Shining,” is another notable landmark in Estes Park, and its architecture and history attract many curious visitors.

If you’re not sure where to begin for sightseeing in Estes Park, join a national park safari tour and let a local guide take you to all the best places!

Pagosa Springs, located in southern Colorado, is a picturesque town known for its natural hot springs, stunning mountain scenery, and outdoor activities.

The town takes its name from the nearby Pagosa Hot Springs, which have been cherished for centuries for their therapeutic properties. These geothermal pools offer relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors year-round, making Pagosa Springs a sought-after destination for those seeking a soothing soak amidst the Rockies.

The charming downtown area is a welcoming hub with a mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The San Juan Historical Museum offers insight into the area’s rich history, showcasing its Native American heritage and the impact of the Spanish explorers.

During the winter months, Pagosa Springs becomes a snowy wonderland, drawing skiers and snowboarders to the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area , renowned for its deep powder and family-friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation in the soothing waters, outdoor adventures in the mountains, or a taste of the town’s vibrant culture, Pagosa Springs is a delightful destination in the heart of the San Juan Basin.

Colorado National Monument, located in the western part of Colorado, is a geologic marvel and a testament to the erosive power of nature over millions of years.

This national monument encompasses a stunning array of deep canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and rugged rock formations that have been sculpted by wind and water.

The highlight of the monument is Monument Canyon, home to the famous Independence Monument, a striking freestanding spire, and other dramatic features like Coke Ovens and Kissing Couple.

Visitors can explore this dramatic landscape through a network of hiking trails and overlooks that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the canyons and the surrounding high desert.

In addition to its geological wonders, Colorado National Monument is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, golden eagles, and a variety of desert plants.

The area offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, road cycling along the scenic Rim Rock Drive, and photography.

The dramatic red rock scenery, combined with the tranquility of the high desert environment, makes Colorado National Monument a hidden gem in the American West and one of the best places to visit in Colorado!

Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Grand Lake is a picturesque mountain town and the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Known as the “Western Gateway to the Rockies,” Grand Lake is renowned for its stunning alpine beauty and its namesake, Colorado’s largest natural lake, which is surrounded by dense pine forests and offers a serene escape for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics.

The town itself exudes a charming, rustic ambiance, with wooden boardwalks, historic buildings, and a laid-back atmosphere that harks back to the Old West.

Grand Lake serves as a fantastic basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can embark on scenic drives, hike the numerous trails, and experience wildlife encounters in this pristine wilderness.

The town is also home to various seasonal events, such as the Grand Lake Regatta and Constitution Week, which celebrate the rich heritage and community spirit of this charming mountain town.

Grand Lake offers a quintessential Rocky Mountain experience in every season and is one of the best mountain towns and places to visit in Colorado.

Related: Try adding all of these destinations to your epic Colorado Road Trip Itinerary !

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway, often called the “Road to the Sky,” is a remarkable high-altitude road located in the Colorado Rockies. It stretches from the quaint town of Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s famous “fourteeners” and the highest paved road in North America.

This iconic byway offers travelers a breathtaking journey through diverse ecosystems, from lush subalpine forests to the stark beauty of the alpine tundra. Along the way, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, deep valleys, and pristine alpine lakes.

The highlight of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the opportunity to reach the summit of Mount Evans itself, which stands at 14,264 feet (4,348 meters) above sea level. The road provides access to a parking lot near the summit, from where a short hike takes you to the actual peak.

At the summit, you can enjoy unrivaled vistas of the Colorado Rockies, with clear views extending for miles on a clear day. The experience of standing atop this majestic peak, surrounded by a unique alpine landscape, is truly awe-inspiring.

The byway is typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, allowing visitors a limited window each year to embark on this unforgettable journey to the top of the world.

A drive along this scenic road is a highlight of any visit to Colorado!

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs

Nestled at the base of the towering Pikes Peak and surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is another one of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Known for its remarkable landscapes and outdoor activities, Colorado Springs offers an array of activities for nature enthusiasts.

The Garden of the Gods , a National Natural Landmark, features breathtaking red rock formations that attract rock climbers and hikers from around the world.

Visitors can also explore the Manitou Incline, a challenging hiking trail that climbs nearly 2,000 feet in elevation, or take the cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak for panoramic views that inspired the song “America the Beautiful.”

Beyond its natural wonders, Colorado Springs is home to a vibrant cultural scene and a rich history. The city is peppered with historic districts, including Old Colorado City and the preserved mining town of Cripple Creek, which offer a glimpse into the region’s past.

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum celebrates the city’s role as the headquarters of the U.S. Olympic Committee and provides an immersive experience showcasing the achievements of American athletes.

For those seeking spiritual experiences, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the mystical vibes of the nearby town of Manitou Springs are must-visit destinations in Colorado Springs.

From checking out an old mining town, to traversing the hiking trails near Garden of the Golds, Colorado Springs is packed with incredible things to do!

Related: Don’t miss out on these great day trips from Colorado Springs !

Breckenridge is one of the best mountain towns to visit in Colorado, known for its historic charm, world-class ski resort, and vibrant year-round cultural scene.

Founded in the mid-19th century as a mining town during the Colorado Gold Rush, Breckenridge has preserved much of its rich history and Victorian architecture.

The town’s Main Street is lined with well-preserved historic buildings that now house boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries, giving it a unique and inviting ambiance.

Breckenridge’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in its annual events like the International Snow Sculpture Championships, where artists from around the world transform massive blocks of snow into intricate sculptures.

Breckenridge is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly during the winter months when it offers world-class skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Breckenridge Ski Resort. With its high-altitude terrain, the resort attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over the globe.

In the summer, the area comes alive with hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor festivals.

Beyond outdoor adventures, the town hosts cultural events like the Breckenridge Music Festival, a celebration of classical and contemporary music, and the Breckenridge Film Festival, which showcases independent cinema.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring the town’s history, or immersing yourself in its cultural offerings, Breckenridge is a vibrant destination that captures the essence of mountain living in Colorado.

Related: Don’t miss this post on all of the fun things to do in Breckenridge !

The Royal Gorge Bridge , located near Cañon City, Colorado, is an iconic and awe-inspiring engineering marvel that spans the dramatic Royal Gorge, a deep chasm carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years.

This suspension bridge, constructed in 1929, was once the highest bridge in the world and stands 955 feet (291 meters) above the roaring river below. It’s incredibly impressive and one of the best places to visit in Colorado.

The bridge stretches for 1,260 feet (384 meters) and offers visitors breathtaking views of the sheer granite cliffs that tower over the river, creating a truly jaw-dropping experience for those who venture across its wooden planks.

Beyond its stunning vistas, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park offer an array of thrilling activities and attractions.

Visitors can take a scenic gondola ride across the gorge, explore the visitor center’s exhibits on the bridge’s history and construction, or enjoy heart-pounding adventures like ziplining and the Royal Rush Skycoaster.

Additionally, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a unique perspective of the gorge, with train rides winding along the riverbanks through this rugged terrain.

The Royal Gorge Bridge is not only a testament to human ingenuity but also a place where visitors can connect with the natural wonder and geological history of the Arkansas River Valley.

Read next: 20 Best Places To Visit In California

Pikes Peak, often referred to as “America’s Mountain,” is an iconic and majestic peak located in the Rocky Mountains near Colorado Springs. Standing at 14,115 feet (4,302 meters) above sea level, Pikes Peak is one of Colorado’s most famous “fourteeners,” mountains that exceed 14,000 feet.

The peak is renowned for its stunning beauty and can be seen from miles away, thanks to its distinctive pyramid-shaped summit. The surrounding landscapes are also home to the lush wilderness of Pike National Forest which is great for hiking, camping, mountain biking, fishing, and exploring.

Pikes Peak has played a significant role in American history and is famously associated with the words of Katharine Lee Bates, who was inspired to write “America the Beautiful” after gazing upon the breathtaking vista from the mountain’s summit.

One of the most popular ways to experience Pikes Peak is by taking the Pikes Peak Highway, a scenic 19-mile (31-kilometer) route that winds its way to the summit.

Alternatively, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a unique and historic journey to the top. The summit provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding Rockies, including the Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, and the vast eastern plains.

Visitors can also explore a visitor center at the summit, enjoy the famous Pikes Peak doughnuts, and even participate in the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, a legendary motorsport event that challenges drivers to conquer the mountain’s winding road.

Pikes Peak is not just a mountain; it’s a symbol of the rugged beauty of the American West and one of the most fun and beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Dinosaur National Monument, located in northwestern Colorado, is a paleontological treasure trove that preserves a rich record of ancient life on Earth.

The park is renowned for its extensive fossil quarry, where visitors can view over 1,500 dinosaur bones, including those of Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Apatosaurus, still embedded in the rock where they were discovered.

This remarkable site provides a unique window into the Jurassic period and the creatures that roamed this region more than 150 million years ago. The Quarry Visitor Center offers informative exhibits and fossil displays, allowing visitors to learn about the park’s scientific significance and the process of excavation and preservation.

In addition to its fossil quarry, Dinosaur National Monument boasts stunning landscapes along the Yampa and Green Rivers, where visitors can explore canyons, enjoy river activities, and hike through scenic valleys. The Harpers Corner Road provides access to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the river canyons, offering breathtaking vistas of the rugged terrain and colorful geology.

The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Dinosaur National Monument provides an educational and visually stunning experience for all who visit and is one of the coolest places to visit in Colorado!

Another one of the best places to visit in Colorado is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, a striking and unique natural wonder that boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America.

This park’s standout feature is its massive sand dune field, where winds have carried and sculpted sand grains over thousands of years, creating dunes that rise as high as 750 feet (229 meters).

The contrast between the golden sands and the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the background is a sight to behold and offers a surreal and mesmerizing landscape for visitors to explore.

Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a wide range of recreational activities, from sandboarding and sledding down the dunes to hiking through the sand dunes and the surrounding forested areas.

Medano Creek, which flows seasonally at the base of the dunes, provides a unique and refreshing aquatic experience during the warmer months.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is also designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and astrophotography.

With its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and forests, and a diverse array of wildlife, from mule deer to rare insects, the park offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts and adventurers to immerse themselves in a truly distinct and captivating environment.

Last but not least on our list of the best places to visit in Colorado is Steamboat Springs, a town known for its world-class skiing, rejuvenating hot springs, and vibrant Western heritage.

Renowned as “Ski Town, U.S.A,” Steamboat Springs boasts the renowned Steamboat Resort, which offers an exceptional winter sports experience. With its famous fluffy, soft snow, the resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the globe, while the town’s inviting Western character and genuine hospitality create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Steamboat’s historic downtown exudes a rustic charm, complete with wooden boardwalks, boutique shops, and delicious dining options, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Beyond winter sports, Steamboat Springs offers year-round attractions, including its namesake hot springs. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Old Town Hot Springs provide soothing relaxation in the midst of the Rocky Mountains’ natural beauty.

The town is also famous for its rich Western heritage, celebrated through events like the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series and the annual Cowboy Downhill, where professional skiers don cowboy attire for a unique race down the slopes.

In the summer, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing, while cultural festivals like the Strings Music Festival and the Steamboat Wine Festival provide entertainment and culinary delights. Steamboat Springs is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm in a stunning mountain setting.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The 8 best places to go to find your own piece of Colorado

Sep 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Whether you’re on a family ski vacation or a romantic weekend for two, Colorado has you covered © Daniel Milchev / Getty Images

Rugged Colorado is famous for its spectacular landscapes, outdoor adventures and gorgeous Rocky Mountain getaways. The Centennial State is also home to a vibrant crop of hip and happening cities, fascinating historical sites and the best four-season weather just about anywhere.

Interstate highways zip between the state’s major hubs, though they can get packed with weekend warriors in season. The roads to more remote destinations are quieter, but be prepared for steep passes, hair-raising switchbacks and winter closures. Getting around Colorado by public transport is possible – just about – but you'll get more out of the state with a car.Here are the best places to visit in Colorado.

Best for a luxe romantic getaway

The sublime natural surroundings combined with the evident opulence of this iconic mountain town make Aspen a perfect place for a luxe getaway for two. This Victorian-era mountain resort lends itself to pampering, with plenty of five-star hotels offering full-service spas ( The Little Nell is a standout).

Aspen is small enough to enjoy on foot, so you won't have to drive to duck into the edgy Aspen Art Museum before snacking on a charcuterie platter at Meat & Cheese or having a cocktail at the historic J-Bar saloon. Annual festivals like the Food & Wine Classic or the Aspen Music Festival add a bonus excuse for a long weekend with your boo.

And this being Colorado, there’s always the great outdoors. Winter brings world-class skiing, as well as snowshoeing and cozy sleigh rides for two.

Planning tip: Summer is all about hiking. The twin peaks known as the Maroon Bells are just minutes away, and miles and miles of trails await. Picture serene walks passing gurgling creeks and aspen groves, with just the two of you and the big blue Colorado sky.

Best for arts and entertainment

In a state known for its bring-it-on outdoorsy ethos, Denver is the cultural megastar. From celebrated museums such as the Denver Art Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum to wacky  Meow Wolf Denver , the city bubbles over with art. Don’t overlook the city’s many public sculptures and the murals that drape across walls and sidings in neighborhoods such as RiNo and the Santa Fe Arts District.

For live entertainment, a trip to the Denver Performing Arts Complex is a no-brainer: this massive 10-theater complex gives equal billing to Broadway musicals, dramas, ballet, opera and the symphony orchestra. Smaller music and theater venues such as Dazzle Denver and the Curious Theatre make for an easy impromptu outing. Red Rocks Amphitheatre is just 15 miles down the road.

Planning tip:  Denver has four more major art museums, plus great art walks on the first Friday of every month and scores of small galleries hosting shows and events. 

3. Colorado Springs

Best for a family outing

A mix of urban and outdoorsy options makes Colorado Springs an easy go-to for family fun. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a surefire hit, offering hand-feeding experiences with giraffes, elephants and rhinos.  Garden of the Gods is a spectacular collection of red sandstone outcrops, mammoth boulders, jutting fins and exquisite pinnacles that can be explored on foot, by bike ( rentals are available at the visitor center) or even with a stroller.

Alternatively, head underground to the Cave of the Winds , which offers an easy introduction to caving plus a zipline and ropes course for big and small adventurers. When it comes to inspirational museums, it’s hard to beat the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum , with hands-on exhibits about the Games and top American athletes, and regular meet-and-greets with real Olympians. When the kids reach for their tablets, take a trip to Manitou Penny Arcade instead, where you can school them in the art of Galaga and Skee-Ball.

4. Breckenridge

Best for a winter basecamp

As winter basecamps go, you won't find one better than Breckenridge . For starters, it’s home to one of Colorado’s best and biggest ski resorts. Whether you’re on a family ski vacation or on the hunt for untamed powder, the spacious groomed slopes and high alpine bowls won’t disappoint. There’s tubing and snowshoeing for even more winter fun.

The town is within striking distance of five other first-rate winter resorts, including Keystone, Copper and Arapahoe Basin, and there’s even free bus service between them. For some après ski fun, Breck’s quaint historic district – this was a working mountain town before the chairlifts got here – buzzes with life, with spots like  Breckenridge Brewery creating a genuine community feel. You'll find all this just two hours from Denver International Airport.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park

Best for hiking and wildlife spotting

The crown jewel of Colorado’s national parks, Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s wonderland. Some 355 miles of top-notch hiking trails traverse terrain that ranges from sculpted granite mountain tops to gorgeous flower-filled valleys. To ease in, consider the flat but rewarding trail around Bear Lake or the moderate hike to Gem Lake in the Lumpy Ridge area. Travelers with more ambition and strong legs are lured by the epic challenge of summiting 14,259ft Longs Peak.

Planning tip: Keep your eyes peeled for animals, big and small. Some 280 species of birds have been spotted in Rocky Mountain National Park, including great horned owls, bald eagles and ptarmigan. Elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer and moose also make regular appearances in these rocky valleys.

6. Telluride

Best for soaking up Colorado's beauty

The tiny town of Telluride is gorgeous and utterly unique – and all the more alluring because of the journey along backcountry roads to get here. Deep in the San Juan Mountains, the town is ensconced at the end of a narrow box canyon, surrounded on three sides by epic mountain scenery and the 365ft Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s highest waterfall.

The town’s long main street features charming century-old buildings, today filled with shops ranging from the simple to the chi-chi. Nearby, the Jud Wiebe Trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of the town and the mountains, while the local via ferrata course – a cable-protected scramble high on the surrounding cliffs – is simply heart-stopping.

7. Mesa Verde National Park

Best for First Nations story

The country’s largest and best-preserved Native American archaeological site, Mesa Verde National Park is a spectacular introduction to the ancient Ancestral Puebloan people (not Anasazi, which means "ancient enemy" in the Navajo language). People lived here for centuries in elaborate structures built into high cliff walls before abruptly abandoning the site around 1300 CE.

The park has several DIY hikes, but by far the best way to experience the site is on ranger-led tours that take visitors inside Mesa Verde’s famous cliff dwellings via wood-pole ladders, stone stairways and narrow tunnels. The Cliff Palace , an amazing engineering achievement with 150 rooms and 23 kivas (underground ceremonial spaces), is a definite highlight. Tours are not for the faint of heart, but they are a one-of-a-kind experience.

8. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Best for unexpected landscapes

As you pass through the jagged Sangre de Cristo Mountains and into the arid San Luis Valley, a massive dune field appears as if from nowhere – welcome to Great Sand Dunes National Park . This sprawling 30 sq mile expanse of sand is a surreal sight in a state better known for mountains, forests and rushing rivers, and it's home to the tallest dunes in North America, standing some 750ft in height.

Hiking up the dunes can be challenging because of the shifting sand, but the reward is an otherworldly view from the top. For a thrill, rent special wooden boards for dune-surfing and slide down the sandy slopes.

Planning tip: If you time it right, you can even enjoy a beach day beside the dunes – in late spring, the seasonal Medano Creek is born from snowmelt that flows down from the mountains, creating a brief oasis for wading and water play. You can't enjoy it for long – the water disappears by mid-summer.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated September 2023

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35 Epic Things to Do in Colorado

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 35 Epic Things to Do in Colorado

We know that there are some seriously epic adventures in Colorado, but it can be hard to narrow down exactly what to do. We’ve put together the top things to do in Colorado to help plan your trip to this outstanding outdoor wonderland. 

With 4 national parks, some of the best skiing in the USA, incredible hiking opportunities, fun big cities and charming small towns, Colorado is packed with both outdoor and urban adventures.  

The best of both worlds , if you will.

We’ve traveled through Colorado several times, and each visit leaves us wanting more. 

The Rocky Mountain State makes for an incredible USA road trip , a top-notch ski vacation, or a relaxing getaway.

No matter the type of trip you plan to take or your travel style, Colorado will surely steal your adventure-seeking heart. 

We’ve rounded up a list of the very best things to do in Colorado – from epic outdoor adventures to essential Denver experiences all city-lovers should add to their bucket list. 

Whether you’re planning a dream trip to Colorado, or you’re a local looking for fun weekend getaways, this list of unique and fun things to do in Colorado will be just what you need! 

Not only will you find a list of fun things to do in Colorado to help you brainstorm for your next trip, but you’ll also find a ton of insider tips so you know exactly how to experience these activities yourself.  

Now, let’s start our Colorado wanderlust sesh, shall we?!

Best time to visit Colorado

Colorado makes a fantastic year-round destination, and the best time to visit really depends on what type of trip you’re taking.

Summer in Colorado 

If you’re planning a Colorado road trip (good choice!), summer is a wonderful time of year to plan this getaway as you’ll have the best conditions for hiking and adventuring. 

One thing to note is that it is also peak tourist season, so you’ll want to make reservations for popular campgrounds (especially near national parks). Also, beware that in recent years, late summer often is known for wildfires in the region. Smoke can really put a damper on outdoor adventures. Trust us! 

Fall in Colorado

While not as colorful as the foliage you’ll see on the east coast, Colorado makes a surprisingly good leaf peeping trip. You have to time it right if you want to see the stunningly perfect aspens that turn golden in early October. 

Just be prepared to share the most iconic views with others! 

Even if you’re not coming for the colors, autumn weather is perfect for hiking and the crowds are fewer once the fall foliage is gone. Just be sure you’re prepared for some sneaky cold temps at night and the chance for early season snow.

Winter in Colorado

Ski bums will love Colorado in the winter. With fresh, powdery snow and cozy lodges scattered throughout the mountain towns, Colorado truly is a winter wonderland in the colder months. 

Even if you don’t ski, winter in Colorado could be a great choice. Bundle up and go snowshoeing or hop in a horse-drawn carriage. Rent accommodation with a fireplace and a hot tub, and soak up the cozy vibes.

Spring in Colorado

With fewer crowds and crisp weather, spring makes a great time to travel around Colorado. You’ll still find lots of snow on many trails, so if big hikes are a part of your trip, you may want to wait until summer or early fall.

Psst! For an in-depth guide on the seasonal weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Colorado .

1. Experience Red Rocks

Checking out Red Rocks is at the top of our list of things to do in Colorado for good reason… 

If you are a fan of live music, chances are you’ve heard of Red Rocks Amphitheater. Best known for hosting a series of concerts and events throughout the year, this massive open-air theater is built into the rock structure, creating a striking visual effect and optimal acoustics. 

With the capacity to accommodate over 9,500 concert-goers, and a performance roster that includes the likes of The Beatles, Johnny Cash and BB King among others, this venue is one of the most famous outdoor music venues in the country.

We highly recommend planning a trip to Colorado with the Red Rocks concert calendar in mind if your travel plans are flexible. Located in Morrison, Colorado, just 10 miles southwest of Denver, visiting Red Rocks is one of our favorite day trips from Denver . 

And if seeing a concert isn’t your top priority, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Red Rocks…

Hiking at Red Rocks

Within the park there are numerous trails and delicious views to explore via hiking or biking. Considering some of the rock formations in the park date back to prehistoric eras, you’ll be surrounded by an incredibly rich history. 

If you’re interested in hiking, there are a range of trails and hikes to choose from. The Geologic Overlook Trail is best for a day trip as it only takes about 30 minutes to complete. 

If you’re looking for something more challenging, The Red Rocks to Dakota Trail is a gorgeous loop trail that takes about three hours from start to finish.

Yoga on the Rocks

A longstanding Denver tradition, on Saturday mornings during summertime, you can attend a Yoga on the Rocks session. This is a unique event where hundreds of people come together to practice yoga in an epic setting. 

Surrounded by the beauty of the landscape, you’ll really be able to tap into your inner zen. 

Tickets for Yoga on the Rocks are $17 per session and you’ll want to reserve ahead of time as it can fill up quickly. 

Film on the Rocks

Another way to enjoy Red Rocks is by attending one of their Film on the Rocks events. From cult classics like The Goonies and Star Wars to more recent releases like the Marvel films, there’s sure to be a movie you’ll enjoy. 

We think this a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or exploring the park. Just pack a picnic of movie snacks and blankets and then cozy up for a flick under the stars with your favorite person. 

Tickets for Film on the Rocks are $16 per person and the show always begins at dusk.

2. Hit the trails

Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is an actual dream for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. There are seemingly unlimited hiking opportunities no matter where in the state you plan to visit.  Some especially popular places for hiking in Colorado are in Boulder, Golden, Rocky Mountain National Park, Buena Vista and Hanging Lake .

We recommend using the AllTrails app so you can find great hikes near you wherever you are traveling in Colorado.

Psst! We have a round up of the best Colorado hiking trails on our sister site for more inspiration! And if you want to stay close to the city, you’ll want to check out the best hikes near Denver .

3. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

In our opinion, Rocky Mountain National Park should definitely be on your list of things to do in Colorado. Be prepared because the scenery will literally draw you in; you won’t want to leave! 

Some of our top recommendations for things to do in RMNP are driving the Trail Ridge Road (which crosses the Continental Divide and offers lots of viewpoint stops), and hiking the Emerald Lake Trail. 

If you have the time, we’ve always found that backpacking through national parks is the best way to really appreciate the beauty and serenity of a park. Without crowds or closing times to worry about, you can really kick back and take it all in.

Whether you decide to go for the day or an overnight camping trip, check out our round up of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park over on our sister site for some inspiration. Entrance to the national park costs $25 per vehicle, or free with your annual park pass . We should note that getting into the park can be a little tricky due to the timed entry permits and regulations so be sure to look into the rules carefully before planning your adventure. 

Psst! If you’re planning on visiting more than one national park in Colorado (or elsewhere!), we’d recommend getting an annual pass. If you need more convincing, we wrote an entire article about the U.S. National Park Annual Pass and whether or not we think it’s worthwhile. 

4. Discover the different neighborhoods of Denver

Denver is a bustling city adjacent to the Rocky Mountains that caters to nearly every type of traveler. Seriously. 

Love food? Denver has some of the most delicious restaurants in the state. We recommend booking a food tour, visiting a few food trucks or heading down to a food hall in order to experience a wide array of choices in a short amount of time! 

Bonus: We have an exclusive promo code just for you! Use the code TWOWANDERINGSOLES when checking out for $5 off any tour at Delicious Denver .

Love nature? Denver is surrounded by some of the most stunning sights in the nation. It is also just a hop away from neighboring towns with even more beauty to explore … if that is even possible!

Love beer? Denver has a surplus of craft breweries popping up by the second. (Full disclosure: this might be one of our favorite parts about the city!)

Love relaxing? Denver is a great place for a casual picnic in the park or an afternoon bask in the sun while floating down the river. Perhaps you’ll head to Red Rocks for a stroll through the lush trails or try some Yoga on the Rocks . Maybe a little dabble with some Mary Jane, anyone? 

It’s something about that mountain air and the lavender sky that just makes you want to chillllll.

Love history? Head to downtown Denver for a free walking-tour .  As you explore the city, you can ask questions, debunk rumors and get the best insider tips from the local Coloradans leading your tour.

Love … quirky things? Visit Meow Wolf! According to the website this art museum features  ‘immersive psychedelic mind-bending art.’ This is definitely not your typical art exhibit and it seems insanely cool!

Okay, we think you get the picture. If you’re heading to the Mile High City—which we highly recommend on any trip to Colorado—check out our complete and detailed guide for things to do in Denver .

5. Hang out in Boulder

Similar to Denver, there are endless things to do in Boulder with its close proximity to nature, bustling food scene and stunning sites.

Things to Do in Boulder

Although this could easily be a much longer list, we’ve compiled some our of favorite things to do in Boulder:

• Stroll down Pearl street. This pedestrian walkway is home to local shops, quaint eateries and more often than not—street performances! If you really want to settle into the heart of Boulder, this is the place to do it. Attend the local farmer’s market. Whenever we travel, we love immersing ourselves into the local culture; the Boulder farmer’s market is an excellent place to stock up on organic produce, flowers and other goodies.
• If you find yourself at the market, plan an extra little visit to the Dushanbe Tea House which is right across the street.
• Spend the day at Chautauqua park where you can choose from a variety of hikes that take you straight out of the city and into Boulder’s orangish-pink flatirons. You can visit the Ranger Cottage and pick a trail that suits you. 
• If you have a car, take a short drive to Boulder Falls and explore the waterfall.
• Catching live music in Boulder is a must! There are so many music venues and locations around the city that host live music events , you could likely find one every day of the week (especially during the summer).
• Take a dip in the Boulder Reservoir. In addition to swimming, you can rent paddle boards, canoes and kayaks. If you’re traveling with your furry friends, there is a dog park at the opposite end where your dog can swim as well.
• Eat all the food. Boulder is known for being quite a foodie city so we couldn’t leave this off our list. Try some local favorites like The Kitchen , Jax Fish House or Basta . If you want to get fancy, Frasca Food & Wine is where it’s at. And if you want to get off the beaten path, try Il Pastaio or Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant .

6. Learn to rock climb

If you’ve been toying with the idea of a new outdoor hobby, we urge you to try rock climbing. We’ve tried it a handful of times and have found every experience quite incredible; we wish we did it more often! 

Take one look at the scenery in Colorado and you’ll likely agree that this is a great place to try out rock climbing for yourself.

Not sure where to start? 

Denver Climbing Co . offers an array of courses whether you’re a novice (and have never touched a rock before) or a veteran climber.The coolest part about this company is they take you straight into the ‘field’ so you’ll be practicing on real rocks versus in a gym.

The Colorado Climbing Company, located in Colorado Springs, is another reputable company that offers training courses on actual rocks preparing you for all kinds of climbing conditions. They also offer ice and snow climbing tours—brr! 

If you’re an expert climber and don’t need training, both these companies still cater to you. Instead of classes, hire an expert guide for your adventure. If you’re traveling and don’t want to lug around your climbing gear, each of these companies provide all the professional equipment you need. 

Take it indoors…

Although we love the idea of practicing rock climbing outdoors, we understand that might not be for everyone. Movement is an innovative climbing gym with locations throughout Colorado. You can practice rock climbing with the comfort of knowing there is a padded floor beneath you! 

In addition to climbing, this gym offers additional courses such as yoga and strength training—all important skills if you’re looking to up your climbing game (and bod!). 

7. Take a food tour

Whenever we explore a new place, we have serious FOMO when trying to choose a restaurant. How can you possibly choose correctly when you have hundreds upon hundreds of options and recommendations in front of you…?!

We feel you. Choosing a place to eat is completely overwhelming and we’re getting twitchy just thinking about it.

Our solution? Book a food tour!

We often take food tours when visiting a new city because we love that you get to try a variety of dishes in a short amount of time. Led by locals, you always get insider information, mini-history lessons and well, get to eat loads of unique, local deliciousness!

The best part? You don’t have to make any tough food decisions! The guide takes care of it all…

If you’re in Denver, we highly recommend booking your food tour through Delicious Denver . The experience was outstanding and the food … honestly, our mouths are watering just thinking about it!

This company is unique in that it offers a few different options and itineraries to choose from (Okay, so I guess you have to make some decisions!).

• This is the tour we took & really loved it!
• The Cocktails & Tastes Tour is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: a tour of specialty cocktails … Yes, please! On this tour, you’ll move through Union Station and Dairy Block. It includes 4 cocktails, 3 appetizers and costs $85. It runs Wednesday through Friday and Sunday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. 
• The Food & Beer Tour takes you a little outside of downtown Denver to River North. Known for its unique street art and famous breweries, this tour gives you a taste of both! You’ll visit 5 restaurants for tastings and receive 3 cocktails for $90 (or $65 without alcohol). It runs on Friday and Saturday from 1:30-4:30 p.m.
• The Denver Wine Walk pairs you with a Denver wine expert who will take you to some of the best downtown locations for locally-made wine. The tour includes 8 wine tastings and 6 paired tastings. It is $99 and only runs once a week on Saturdays from 4-6:30 p.m.

Bonus: We have an exclusive promo code just for you! Use the code TWOWANDERINGSOLES when checking out for $5 off any tour.

8. Go brewery hopping

One thing that becomes glaringly obvious while traveling through Colorado is that Coloradans love their microbrews. Which is honestly excellent news for us because … so do we!  

With over 400 established breweries, it is nearly impossible to go anywhere in Colorado without finding a place to stop for a craft beer.

Planning your own brewery hopping tour is a great way to experience the craft beer scene and one of our favorite things to do in Colorado!  

We’ve compiled a list of popular breweries to explore by city; some of these we can personally recommend, but others are on our own ‘to do’ list for the next time we visit.

Breweries in Denver

• Ratio Beerworks
• Great Divide Brewing Co.
• Zuni Street Brewing Company
• Crooked Stave

Pro Tip: Denver’s official website offers this handy Beer Trail Map that will help you plot out your brewery tour by neighborhood!

Breweries in Boulder

• Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
• Twisted Pine Brewing Co. 
• Kettle and Spoke Brewery 
• Pearl Street Brewery 
• Avery Brewing Company

Breweries in Fort Collins 

• New Belgium Brewing Company 
• Odell Brewing Company 
• Gilded Goat Brewing Company 

Insider tip: Fort Collins Brew Cruise allows you to choose three breweries in Fort Collins and tour them via bicycle! (See #31 on this list for more information!)

Breweries in Lyons 

• Oskar Blues Brewery 
• Mainstage Brewing

9. Have a play date with Mary Jane

If you’re from a state that hasn’t yet legalized recreational marijuana, you might consider taking advantage of having a very legal puff in Colorado. 

There are dispensaries peppered all around the state and a quick Google search will help you locate one near you.

If you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, we recommend having a chat with the employees as they are quite knowledgeable and can help you!

Some important things to note:

• You must be over 21 to enter a dispensary 
• Don’t forget to bring your ID
• Bring cash since many dispensaries don’t accept credit cards 
• You cannot consume marijuana in public places 
• Do not drive under the influence
• You cannot share marijuana with a minor 
• Be sure you do not take it with you outside of California (and definitely not on the plane!)

Other marijuana-forward activities

Aside from visiting a dispensary, Colorado has gotten pretty clever in their marijuana-induced activities.

• Bring your own marijuana to … yoga!? There are a few yoga studies popping up that welcome participants to smoke while they stretch. Bend & Blaze is a studio in Denver where yogis can bring their own weed and incorporate it into their practice. This takes zen to a whole new level; I kinda want to try it!
• Paint & Puff! Similar to those wine and painting nights, Colorado Cannabis Tours offers a variety of classes that incorporate a bit of Mary Jane with your art. We love some of the class names: Puff, Pass & Pottery or Puff, Pass & Paint. There are other companies that offer similar activities, too.
• Another unique attraction is their cannabis cooking class which teaches you methods of infusion and dosages for making edibles. It is run by an edibles chef (those are a thing!?) The cooking course is $89 and runs on Sundays from 12-1:30 & 2-3:30. 
• Friday – Monday: 12-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday – Thursday: 4-8 p.m.
• Take a Cannabis Tour: Seeing as Colorado was the first state to legalize marijuana, the growing history of bud is quite interesting. My 420 tours offer a variety of packages that bring you on a cannabis tour. The company also offers other quirky activities like sushi & joint rolling class—that’s one way to kill two birds with one stone! (Haha, see what I did there??)

10. Eat at some of the best restaurants in the country

If you spend some time exploring all of the outdoor adventures and things to do in Colorado, you’re bound to get a little hungry. 

Fortunately, Colorado offers an enormously wide variety of amazing restaurants serving up specialties from gourmet hot dogs to Rocky Mountain oysters. You’ll have no issue finding something delicious eats to get you re-energized for more exploring.

While there are phenomenal places to eat all around the state, we’ve broken up our list to our restaurant recommendations in Denver and Boulder. 

Is there a notable place that needs to be on our list? Please let us know by commenting on this article! 

Restaurant in Denver

• Rioja : for creative Mediterranean dishes and an epic wine list
• Beckon : An exclusive ticketed dining experience with a rotating seasonal tasting menu and wine pairings
• Stoic & Genuine : Sustainable seafood house, oyster and granita bar 
• Mercantile Dining & Provision : Fine dining with high-end ingredients from a James Beard Award winning chef
• Sushi Den : for sushi featuring daily fresh fish flown in from Tokyo

Restaurant Recommendations in Boulder 

• Frasca Food & Wine : for locally-sourced Italian dishes & a wide-wine selection (PS: Frasca is also a James Beard winner!) 
• Lucile’s Creole Cafe : for a comfortable, cozy brunch served in a quaint Victorian home
• Blackbelly Market : for farm-to-table, organic plates 
• River & Woods : for dishes inspired by local community member’s own recipes

11. See live music

Settling in to listen to some live music after a long day outdoors is one of our favorite things about Colorado. The music scene is seriously epic. And we love it!

If you’re looking for things to do in Colorado, you can find live music on any given night of the week. However, if you’re traveling in summer you’ll have even more opportunities to catch a show and you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the various outdoor concerts around the state. There is nothing better than being surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and breathing in the fresh air while listening to live music. 

Check out some of Colorado’s best live music bars and venues: 

• The Fox Theatre (Boulder): this venue is located in the heart of university campus in a district of Boulder nicknamed “The Hill.” Despite the big-named celebrities who have performed here, this venue is quite intimate, seating around 600 guests per show 
• Boulder Theater (Boulder): this historic establishment is a little dingy, but still going strong after it opened in 1906! It hosts entertainment acts from musicians to comedians to films.
• Fillmore Auditorium (Denver): this is one of the largest venues in the state often featuring big-name acts 
• Ogden Theater (Denver): Just down the street from the Fillmore, this smaller, historic venue has a more intimate feel
• Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom (Denver): An indie music hall with smaller stages in a more intimate setting
• Magic Rat (Fort Collins): this quirky bar has a full music line up and a vibrant atmosphere
• Washington’s (Fort Collins): this venue is located in downtown Fort Collins and has a capacity of 900 
• Planet Bluegrass (Lyons): an outdoor concert venue that spans 20-acres and hosts numerous music festivals in summer
• Telluride Bluegrass Festival (Telluride): not exactly a venue, this iconic festival has been around for 50 years! Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, this music festival location is absolutely stunning as well as entertaining. If you’re looking for things to do in Colorado in June, you might want to cement this into your travel plans.

Please note that this is not, by any means, an exhaustive list—you can walk down pretty much any main street in the popular towns in Colorado and find some great live music options.

12. Float down the river in Golden

Summer in Colorado can get pretty hot which makes any activity involving water an outstanding option for keeping cool. A float down Clear Creek in Golden is a popular summer activity for good reason: it is super relaxing and the scenery is gorgeous.  You can bring your own tube, or rent one for $20 (single) or $40 (double) through Adventure West . We recommend booking your tube ahead of time as they book up quite quickly in the summer months. 

You can start your float at various points along Clear Creek and end at Parfet Park. The float takes about 1 hour, so you can easily do multiple laps! You might consider packing a little cooler for your float filled with some craft beers from Golden City brewery to make it a really local experience. 

13. Hike to Hanging Lake

• Distance: 3 miles, out and back 
• Elevation: 1,187 feet
• Difficulty Rating: moderate 
• View the trail guide

Located in the White River National Forest, Hanging Lake is a stunning natural masterpiece.

The hike to Hanging Lake is quite tough, but well worth the fresh air, tranquil waterfall and turquoise lake that you’re greeted with at the end of the 1.5 mile hike.

Visiting in fall or winter? Hanging Lake is just as beautiful during these seasons and if you get the chance to see the lake when it’s frozen … It’s like an image straight out of a snow globe. Take into consideration the risks and difficulties of hiking in snow or ice and pack boots! 

In order to keep the space sacred and avoid overcrowding, reservations and permits are required to hike here; plan ahead!

However tempting it might be, please be aware that swimming is prohibited in the lake. This national wonder is quite a delicate ecosystem and things like sunscreen and body oils can damage the area.

Feeling sore from the hike? Head to the nearby Iron Mountain Hot Springs which, in our opinion, is a perfect way to soak your sore muscles. 

14. Drive the Mount Evans Scenic Byway

If you have a car, we definitely recommend this drive as one of the things to do while visiting Colorado.

This is the highest road you can travel (via car) in the entire United States. The paved roadway  climbs over 7,000 feet and passes through 5 different climate zones. At the summit, you’ll have technically ‘climbed’ one of Colorado’s famous fourteeners.

The drive takes about 2-3 hours each way, but don’t forget to factor in the amount of times you’ll want to stop to take photos (warning: it will be a lot!). 

The drive is truthfully outstanding and you’ll have the opportunity to see wildlife such as mountain goats, and Bighorn Sheep in their natural environments. Pull over to walk through the alpine wildflowers or sniff the pine forests. 

Need to stretch? There are many places to stop on your journey for a photo, stretch or a snack: 

• Echo Lake has picnic tables, trails and restaurants—perfect for a mid-drive rest!
• Mr. Goliath Natural Area is the perfect place to stop if you want to get up close and personal with the bristlecone pine trees (some of which are over 1,000 years old!).
• The Summit is a short hike from the parking lot and, of course, you don’t want to miss those views! Be mindful when hiking, however, as the altitude will change. 

Things to know

• The roadway is open Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• You need a reservation to complete this drive. It costs $10 per car (or free if you have an annual park pass ). There are two fee-free days (June 11 & September 24) if you’re traveling on a strict budget. 
• There is no fee or reservation requirement for hikers or bikers. 
• There is little to no cell service along the drive so be sure you make and download your reservation confirmation ahead of time.
• While beautiful and safe, the road is incredibly twisty and turny. If you suffer from motion sickness, you may wish to sit this one out (or pack helpful remedies such as peppermint or crackers).

15. Hike a 14er

If you’re looking for things to do in Colorado, the idea of hiking a ‘fourteener’ will likely come up.

But what is 14er exactly? Quite simply, tackling a fourteener means you are hiking a mountain that exceeds 14,000 feet in elevation. 

Now, while that might sound intimidating to some, just remember that you’ll often be starting the hike from a high elevation to begin with, so you’re not technically hiking the full 14,000 feet. With that being said, the elevations and altitudes on these mountains are still intense, the hikes are often quite difficult and you should be confident and prepared before each one.

If you think you’re ready to take on one of the hikes, you’ve come to the right place. Colorado is famous for its 58 fourteeners—more than any other state! 

Some popular 14ers to explore: 

• Mount Sherman: 4.9 miles out and back; 2,027 feet 
• Mount Bierstadt: 7.5 miles out and back; 2,400 feet 
• Grays Peak: 8 miles round-trip; 3,000 feet 
• Torreys Peak: 8 miles round-trip; 3,600 feet 
• Pikes Peak: 14 miles round trip; 7,400 feet  
• Longs Peak: 14 miles round trip, 3,825 feet 

Check out our guide to day trips from Denver (#2!) for a more comprehensive list and stats on the best 14ers to hike near Denver. 

Tips for hiking a fourteener in Colorado 

Hiking a fourteener is no easy feat so be sure you’re well-prepared.

• Be sure to pack enough water. Do some research to see if your hike intersects with a water source. If so, a filter will come in handy. If not, pack enough water to last you from the summit and back! 
• Wear sunscreen. Although your hike might be cloudy and oftentimes chilly, you’re still exposed more to the sun at the higher elevation. 
• Pack for rain. You never know what weather you’ll experience whilst on your hike so it is always best to have rain covers and dry sacks for anything you don’t want getting soggy. Head out early: Many hikes will recommend this and it’s for good reason. Starting your trip early means you’ll avoid crowds and the potential heat. Use Alltrails : This app is incredibly handy in finding hikes near you as well as a guide while actually hiking.  You can read insider tips from others who have done the trail as well as track all your own hikes and pace which is always helpful to have on record! The paid version allows you to work offline which is obviously a bonus if you’re hiking in remote areas. 
• Be aware of altitude: Depending on where you’re traveling from, you might need to give yourself a few days to assimilate to the environment. Changes in altitude can make you dizzy, tired or restless—none of which are ideal conditions for attempting a 14-er. 

Not sure what to pack when hiking? Check out our guide for what to wear hiking on our sister site. 

16. Battle the rapids on a whitewater rafting adventure

Are you an adrenaline junkie? If so, whitewater rafting is likely already on your list of things to do in Colorado and if it isn’t … Well, it really should be!

Colorado is a great place to experience rafting because the winter snow melt coming from the mountains provides ample fuel to create rapids. For those brave enough to take this adventure on, here are a few of our suggestions. 

• Clear Creek Rafting is a reputable company near Idaho Springs that offers tours from beginner to advanced. This is the closest white water rafting tour you can reach from Denver.
• A Wanderlust Adventure caters to family-friendly adventures, but still offers more demanding tours as well. If you’re near Fort Collins, this is a great choice!
• Arkansas River Rafting has been around for 50 years. They offer loads of programs, tours and classes. Canon city is also great for rock climbing if you want to double up the adventuring! 

17. Go skiing or snowboarding

One of the main reasons people come to visit Colorado during the wintertime is for the outstanding skiing and snowboarding opportunities throughout the state. Whether you’re a beginner looking for lessons or a seasoned pro returning year after year, there’s sure to be a mountain to suit your needs. 

With plenty of mountain resorts scattered throughout the state and a surplus of sunny days, it is truly the perfect place for skiing.

*NOTE: The following prices are for the 2022/2023 season. Most prices are dependent on things such as age, booking times and season. Therefore, we encourage you to check out the website for the most accurate prices so you’re not surprised by the prices upon arriving. 

• Location: 200 miles (4 hours) west of Denver
• Lift Ticket Price: $159-174 for adults
• Season Pass: $2,799 (includes all four Aspen mountains); up to 7 days included in Ikon Pass

One of Colorado’s most coveted ski resorts in the country, Aspen Snowmass needs no introduction. Located just a few hours west of Denver, skiing at this highly-regarded collection of 4 mountains is on many-a bucket lists. 

If you visit Aspen to ski, you’ll have access to a 4-in-1 deal. Using one ticket, you can ski: Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Whether you’re a novice or the black diamond runner, you’ll find Aspen’s slopes to be well-groomed and ready for action.  

Breckenridge

• Location: Summit County, 80 miles (1.5 hours) west of Denver
• Lift Ticket Price: $141 for adults, $419 for a 4-pack
• Season Pass: $749 for adults (also available on the Epic Pass & Summit Value Pass)

Breckenridge stands out to visitors due to its charming Victorian town and its five major peaks. There are over 2,500 skiable acres, 180 trails and the tallest chairlift in North America.  

You can enjoy skiing here all the way until spring since March and April are actually some of the snowiest months in “Breck”. 

Steamboat Springs

• Location: 156 miles (3 hours) northwest of Denver
• Lift Ticket Price: $108-$177 for adults
• Season Pass: $1,079 for adults (23+), (also available on the Ikon Pass)

Known as Ski Town, USA, Steamboat is a skiing mecca encompassing 2,900 skiable acres across seven mountain peaks with 169 groomed runs. Fun fact: more Olympians make their homebase here than any other ski area in the country.

The resort boasts some of the best tree skiing in all of North America, plus two halfpipes and several terrain parks, which make Steamboat a dream for skiers and snowboarders alike.

• Location: Just off Hwy 70, 97 miles (1 hour and 45 minutes ) west of Denver
• Lift Ticket Price: $225-$245 for adults
• Season Pass: $859 for adults (also available on the Epic Pass & Summit Value Pass)

Situated in the Rocky Mountains, Vail is one of the largest and most famous ski resorts in the world covering over 5,000 acres. Whether you’re coasting down the green runs or carving up the black diamonds, Vail’s got slopes for all levels to enjoy.

These are just a few of the well-known resorts, but Colorado has plenty more. Check out our guide to Colorado ski resorts for more detailed information to plan your ski vacation to Colorado.

Psst! Check out this guide for what to wear skiing to help you pack for your trip!

18. Take the gondola above Telluride Village

Telluride is an adorable mountain town cradled between high mountain peaks and exploding waterfalls. 

Due to the outstanding views and the year-round activities, we think this village is a highly underrated place to visit! 

If you’re looking for off-beat things to do in Colorado, a visit to Telluride should be on your list for sure. 

One of the most popular activities in Telluride is taking the FREE gondola ride to San Sophia Ridge and Mountain Village. 

Viewing the landscape from over 10,000 feet up, you’ll be left in awe whether you’re peering down upon the rustic, peachy hues of the fall foliage or seeing the trees dressed in their snowy suits. In the summertime, you might even spot a bear or a bobcat from your superior vantage point. 

The trip is only 13 minutes and the gondola runs from 6:30 a.m. to midnight daily. 

At the first stop, San Sophia Ridge, you can easily access a variety of hiking and biking trails. The second stop, Mountain Village, is where most skiers and snowboarders will hop off as this area offers pristine skiing conditions, cozy accommodations and lovely restaurants. 

Other things to do in Telluride

• Try flying!? The deep canyons in Telluride make this a perfect place to try paragliding. Book with Telluride Paragliding as they offer tandem flights which allows for a really relaxing ride.
• This hike is considered challenging and quite long — around 8 hours — but you can easily spend the night at one of the many accommodations (for all budgets) offered in Telluride.
• While you’ll absolutely encounter some gorgeous sites on this hike, you’ll also encounter a lot of people; it is extremely popular. To avoid the crowds, try visiting on the weekdays or early morning. If the lot is full, you won’t be able to enter. 

19. Soak in some hot springs

After a day exploring the Rocky Mountains, we absolutely recommend a long, peaceful soak. To be honest, aside from dabbling in some food, this might be our favorite thing to do after a hike.

Fortunately, Colorado has a plethora of hot springs that do not disappoint. To be honest, it was difficult to create this list as there are so many amazing hot springs to choose from:

• The Pagosa Springs border the San Juan river and are totally free! Pack a picnic and spend a few hours (or an entire day) relaxing in these natural springs. The views are incredible!
• In order to keep the atmosphere tranquil, reservations are required ahead of time. Clothing is optional after sundown. 
• These hot springs are located in Nathrop (near Salida & Buena Vista). This is a perfect location to soak for couples or families as there are a variety of pools to choose based on your needs. 
• Mount Princeton has a natural infinity pool (complete with a water slide)l, creekside hot springs, soaking baths and the exercise pool where you can  do laps. So, there is definitely something for everyone. 
• Inside the reservation hall there is also a small bar. A glass of wine & some soaking anyone … anyone!?
• On weekdays, daily rates are $35 per adult, but increase to $40 on Friday and Saturday. There are additional fees for towels, lockers and access to the slide. There are no reservations required. 
• Cottonwood Hot Springs is in close proximity  to Mount Princeton, but a little more low-key. Tickets are $20-24 per adult. Aside from the hot springs, Cottonwood also has a sauna and cold plunge bath.
• If you want to extend your stay, Joyful Journey offers camping plots, yurts, tipis or hotel rooms to rent. 
• Compared to other hot springs, their rates are quite low offering a daily price of $15-17 per adult. Reservations are required, however, and we recommend booking early as it seems like this place is a hot commodity! 
• Similar to Joyful Journey, you can camp here as well!
• Reservations are highly recommended and they seem to book out well in advance. You can book a ‘half-day’ soak for three hours at $48 per adult. Or you can opt for the full day soak which is $125 per person.
• While we personally find these prices a bit expensive, Iron Mountain has rave reviews and, if you are pairing it with a hike to Hanging Lake, it seems well worth the cost!
• Part of the hike includes wading through the creek which, at times, can be cold and fierce. The reward? Soaking in natural mineral craters in a totally remote location. Sounds worth it to us! It’s all part of the journey … right?!
• To visit Conundrum Hot Springs, you need a permit . This helps preserve the ecosystem and reduce traffic in the area. While permits and regulations can be annoying sometimes, they come from a  good place and make for a better experience overall. 
• Similar to a few abovementioned hot springs, you can camp in this location. 

20. Take a road trip

In many ways, Colorado is far too pretty and diverse to stay in one place. Sooo … road trip anyone?!

We’ve spent a lot of time living in our campervan so we obviously love traveling via the open road. It gives you absolute freedom to go wherever you want on your own schedule, and is generally less expensive. 

There are an outstanding amount of places to see in Colorado as well as many routes to take if you’re planning a road trip . In our opinion, planning the trip is half the fun.

21. Let your inner child out at Great Sand Dunes National Park

Okay, we know this sounds like something you’d find in maybe … the Sahara , but the Great Sand Dunes National Park is in fact in Colorado! And yes, it has actual desert dunes! In fact, the park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. 

Not what you’d expect to find in Colorado… amIright!?

You can visit in any season: summer is absolutely astonishing, winter is gorgeous as the snow blankets the dunes, and the fall foliage makes for a pristine autumn backdrop. 

If you choose to visit the park, you’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time. It costs $25 per car to enter, or free with your annual park pass . Since there are loads of things to do within the park,  we think this is an appropriate fee; even more so if you stay overnight and camp.

If you plan to stay overnight in the park, you need a permit , but they only cost $6!

Aside from simply exploring the dunes, you can plan to ski or snowboard down them! Um – yep! Bring your own contraption (i.e. snowboard, garbage lid, sled, cardboard sheet, etc.) and have a go! There is nowhere to rent equipment for sand-sledding so plan to do this ahead of time or  … get creative!

Within the park, you’re likely to spot some elk or bison so keep an eye out. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, take the Star Dune Trail which is a 7 mile in-and-out trail throughout the park. 

And you don’t want to miss Medano Creek . It seems strange to have a genuine water source in the middle of the ‘desert,’ but in summer, this is a great spot for swimming! Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and sand dunes, this water source is truly a sight.

Planning a national park trip? Check out our guide to the national parks in Colorado , which includes essential info and insider tips!

22. Peep the Maroon Bells in Aspen

If you love fall nearly as much as us you’ll be racing to spend autumn in Aspen. The Maroon Bells are two peaks in the Elk Mountains separated by about half a kilometer and at their most majestic during leaf peeping season. 

The Maroon Bells are famously some of the most photographed mountains in North America. You can visit at any time of the year, but we think the crispy yellows and rusty reds in fall will actually make you fall in love.

Because the mountains are so popular, there is restricted access to the area during the summer and fall. There are a few ways to access the Maroon Bells:

• Take the public bus (RFTA) that runs daily from May-October from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ride costs $16 per person. This is a stress-free option as you can really kick back and enjoy the sights. 
• Note: Due to the popularity, reservations are required ahead of time whether you’re taking the bus or your own car.  
• You can also add an additional mile onto your hike onto Maroon Pass in order to peek at the gorgeous snow capped mountains.

23. Go back in time at Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park protects a very important part of indigenous history and we highly recommend a visit. Not only is the park breathtakingly beautiful, it has an incredible amount of preserved history from ancestral cliff dwellings to archaeological sites.

As with most national parks in Colorado, you need to make a reservation ahead of time. Prices vary depending on your mode of transportation and time of your visit. 

Things to do at Mesa Verde National Park

• Although the majority of the tour is on a bus, you’ll get off often for short hikes and exploring. 
• Visit the Cliff Palace. If you have limited time, you can take a quick hour-tour to the Cliff Palace which is an intricately designed dwelling with over 100 rooms to explore. This is such a powerful look into history — you’ll feel all the feels! 
• Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail . On this 2 mile loop trail, you’ll walk among prehistoric rock formations. 
• Prater Ridge Trail: for a longer hike with a wide array of vegetation & elevation Knife Edge Trail : for a wicked sunset
• Point Lookout Trail: for an incredible view of the Mancos valley 
• Spruce Canyon Trail: for a chance to be surrounded by lush spruce and JUNIPER (yaya!) trees 
• Stay overnight. You have two options for lodging within the actual park, but there are also loads of options surrounding it. Within the park, you can book a room at Far View Lodge which has outstanding reviews. For something a bit cheaper, however, you can also camp! 

Mesa Verde National Park is also quite close to Durango so, if you have time, we recommend a stop there for a quick hike or a bite to eat.

24. Discover the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Although Gunnison National Park is quite far away from … well, civilization … It is absolutely a worthwhile trip.

If you’re looking to really get off the beaten path, this is totally the place to do it. However, if you’re planning a backpacking trip through Gunnison National Park, we definitely recommend doing some extra research, as you’ll be quite isolated. Well, except for the occasional bear…!

Some of the rock formations within the park are over 2 million years old—which is a lot of time to sculpt the beauty you see today.

Fun Fact: Due to the vast walls of the canyon, the rock is often covered in dark shadows which is how it got its name ‘black’ canyon.

Things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

• Go snowshoeing in winter on the Rim Rock trail. 
• Choose a hike that suits your level and time available. Be mindful when hiking here as you’re likely to encounter a lot of wildlife who may even fancy some human snacks.
• Stargaze! Something really cool about this park is that it’s recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. As you can imagine, that means the stargazing here is nearly perfect. In today’s world, there are few opportunities to escape light and noise pollution; take advantage of it here!
• If you’re into photography at all, this is a perfect place to try some astrophotography . Or simply lay back and get lost in the magic of the constellations.

25. Wander around Garden of the Gods

This National Natural Landmark attracts a variety of visitors from nature lovers to photographers to rock climbers. The stunning sandstone formations are seemingly out of the world. Seriously!

The park contains around 15 miles of trails to hike so you have lots of choices. If you don’t have a ton of time, we recommend the Garden of the Gods loop trail . It is short, but will still offer absolutely epic views of the rocks.

Don’t feel like hiking? You can also explore the park via horseback or … via a segway?! We’ve got to say that sounds quite … interesting! 

The park is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and it is free to the public – win!

26. Summit Pikes Peak

Sometimes we’re amazed at how much beauty can exist in a single state. Pikes Peak is one of Colorado’s famous 14ers and it is simply stunning.

We love that this summit is totally inclusive to everyone; you can access it in a variety of ways – not just by hiking it.

Pikes Peak drive

Another option is driving yourself to the summit. Pikes Peak is the only 14er in Colorado that allows you to reach the summit by car via the Pikes Peak Highway. So if you’re looking to summit a 14er in Colorado without all the work, this is your chance (albeit a little loophole!).

The drive is about 19 miles, but there are loads of places to stop along the way. Stop at the adorable Glen Cove Inn for a bite to eat or a bathroom break. There is also a little rest stop—appropriately named the HalfWay Picnic area—where you can stop for a stretch, have a snack and take in the scenery. 

If you’re up for a small hike to break up your drive, stop at Devil’s Playground. There is a large parking lot and short path that offers incredible views of the valley below. 

Note: There are no opportunities to fill up your gas tank on the highway so be sure you do this ahead of time! 

To drive, it costs $15 per adult and $5 for kids. 

Pikes Peak by train

If tackling this fourteener doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can take a train. The Cog railway offers trips straight to the peak!

It costs $38 per adult and $20 for children which we find quite expensive. That being said, it is a relaxing way to take in the beauty of Pikes Peak without much physical effort. 

Pikes Peak hike

It is a quite difficult hike, however, and recommended only for experienced hikers. It’s around 14.5 miles with an elevation gain of about 4,402 feet.

As you begin, follow signs for Crags Trail and, if possible, head out early as afternoon thunderstorms are quite common in this area.

Near the summit, you’ll have the chance to see an array of wildlife such as eagles and Bighorn sheep. Not to mention the strikingly perfect views! Pikes Peak has previously been nicknamed ‘Mountain of the Sun’ and, once there, you’ll see why. It will certainly make all the efforts of getting there worthwhile. 

Depending on your pace, this hike takes around 6-8 hours to complete.

So whatever method you choose – hike, drive or be driven – you’ll need to make a reservation . This is an extremely popular attraction in Colorado so we highly recommend planning this excursion in advance. 

27. Visit Colorado Springs

Due to its close proximity to places like the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is a great place to add to your list of things to do in Colorado. 

With phenomenal views, hidden gems and a vibrant downtown area, this city caters to nature lovers and foodies alike. 

Colorado Springs can get quite overcrowded, especially in the summer. If you can, try to visit in the fall when it is less busy. Plus, you’ll get to experience the golden hues and deep maroons of the changing leaves. 

There isn’t a ton to do here and, in our opinion, there are cooler places in Colorado to spend your time, but it is worth checking out for a day or two, especially if you’re already in the area. 

Things to do in Colorado Springs:

• There is also a haunted tour that seems super fun – especially if you’re traveling around Halloween!
• Taste your way through the city with Rocky Mountain Food Tours . Food tours are one of our absolute favorite things to do whenever we visit a new city so we highly recommend this if you’ve never been to Colorado Springs. 
• Get outside and go on a hike. There are dozens upon dozens of trails, but Palmer Park seems especially beautiful as it offers outstanding views of the entire city. 

28. Try your luck in Black Hawk/Central City

It was news to us that there is a mini “Vegas” in Colorado, but there definitely is! Say what?!

Just a bit west of Denver, Black Hawk is a small mountain town, home to over 20+ casinos all located on their bustling Main Street.

You can use the (free!) Black Hawk Shuttle to bounce between the many casinos in the area, which range in style from very posh to family-owned to just plain quirky—and everything in between!

Aside from gambling, Black Hawk is also popular for its rich mining history. If you’re a history buff, there is a self-guided walking tour throughout the downtown complete with scannable QR codes along the way. We’ve done walking tours before, but the QR codes are a fun and modern little touch!

Alternative things to do in Black Hawk

Similar to nearly every mountain town in Colorado, Black Hawk also caters to the outdoor junkie in you.

• There is a gorgeous 50 mile scenic byway that connects Black Hawk to Estes Park making it easy to combine these two trips together. 
• If you’re a climber, you’ll want to head to nearby Clear Creek Canyon. High Wire Crag is perfect for beginners while The River Wal l is reserved for veteran climbers.
• In winter, snowshoe around Clear Creek before returning to the city for a delicious, cozy dinner around a fire.
• Hike Peaks to Plains trail which begins in downtown Black Hawk. If you’re looking for more hiking, check out the trails within the Golden Gate Canyon State Park area. 

29. Explore Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is a perfect place to unwind and unplug in Colorado.

With strict restrictions for no camping, no climbing, no biking and no drones, you can pretty much expect a super chilled out (and quiet!) visit. Plan your trip in the morning or weekdays and you’ll have even more privacy. 

We especially love this park’s commitment to promoting the Leave No Trace principles . 

Things to do in Roxborough

• Have a picnic , but don’t forget to take your trash with you when you go!
• Go birding. There are a few hikes in the park that cater specifically to bird watching. Don’t forget your binoculars! 
• Check out one of the 9 hiking trails within the park. Roxborough is home to a lot of wildlife – including bears – so you’re likely to spot some creatures on your hike. 

30. Check out the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park

If you’re a movie junkie, you’ll recognize Stanley Hotel from the hollywood thriller, The Shining . The historic hotel in Estes Park is played ‘set’ for some of the scenes from the movie.

Whether you’re a movie buff or just curious about the history, you can have a walk around the grounds, snap a few photos and have a drink at the bar. We are wondering if they serve any RED RUM there…

If you’re planning a longer visit to Estes and nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, you can actually stay the night at the Stanley Hotel . 

While that might seem a little creepy to some, the hotel rally doesn’t give off any creepy-twin vibes. In fact, it is quite a luxurious and expensive stay starting at $300+ a night.

While you’re at it, be sure to check out all the other highlights of Estes Park like driving the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, riding the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, or getting out on the water on Lake Estes. 

31. Visit Fort Collins

Okay, if you love craft beer then you need to visit Fort Collins. We’re not kidding—it has been crowned Craft Beer Capital of Colorado; the Napa Valley of beer. This city produces around 70% of all the craft beer in the entire state.

We’ll cheers to that!

Aside from all the beer, it is also home to Colorado State University which adds to its local, but lively vibe. Beer + college naturally go together, right?

You certainly won’t be bored here after exploring the historic downtown, trying some delicious restaurants and embarking on some brewery tours. Throw in the stunning scenery of Fort Collins and, well, we think you’ll just love this place.

Brewery hopping in Fort Collins

Something you definitely don’t want to miss on your visit is taking a bicycle brewery tour with Fort Collins Brew Cruise . 

This company allows you to choose which three breweries you want to visit (and there are loads!) then sets you up with equipment and an expert guide to lead your trip.

Each tour takes about four  hours and you’ll be biking around 3-8 miles depending on which breweries you choose to visit.

The tours cost $75 and are for those 21 and older. We should note, too, that the price does not include any actual beer tasting so bring additional cash if you want to drink — which we imagine you will! 

If a guided tour doesn’t seem like your thing, you can easily create your own brewery-hopping tour:

• New Belgium Brewing Company : This famous brewery offers live music, food trucks and a constantly changing selection of beers on tap. You can also take a brewery tour while here!
• Odell Brewing Company : With a gorgeous patio, surplus of food truck options and totally dog-friendly, this popular brewery is well worth a visit. They’ve recently partnered with the OBC Wine Project so if beer isn’t your thing, you’re still covered! 
• Gilded Goat Brewing Company : With two locations, midtown hosts the actual brewery whereas downtown offers a large patio and live music. Both locations (obviously) offer an array of beer options and fun, community-style vibes. 
• Black Bottle Brewery : They are known for their ‘radical beers’ and full gourmet menu. Nestled behind the Mason Bike Trail, you can easily access this by bicycle or walking! 
• Zwei Brewing : With a focus on German-style lagers, this brewery does loads of community events so check their website before visiting — you might be able to do some free yoga or participate in a craft + beer workshop. 

Get outdoors

It would be a shame to leave Fort Collins without soaking in some of its striking scenery. We recommend you spend the day exploring Horsetooth Reservoir. It is a perfect area for cooling off with a swim in summer, hiking, biking or even horseback riding. 

The 6.4-mile loop trail to horsetooth rock through horsetooth falls looks especially gorgeous and isn’t too challenging. 

The Mason Bike Trail is another way to explore the lovely sights and activities in Fort Collins. An easy Google search will lead you to loads of places to rent a bike near you. Then hop onto this short trail (less than two hours) and enjoy the fresh air with a bit of exercise.  

Explore downtown

Take some time to explore the historic downtown; it has loads to see and many delicious restaurants to try. Avogadro’s is especially loved by locals, but there are soooo many options!

32. Check out Nederland

As with many mountain towns in Colorado, Nederland is both charming and picturesque. Starting as a trading post between the Ute Indians and Europeans, it has a deep-rooted and incredibly interesting history. 

Downtown ‘Ned’ (as the locals call it) has an array of local restaurants, micro-breweries and shops; it is rare to find large chain shops here which makes this place especially quaint.

One adorable stop we recommend is the Carousel of Happiness . It’s super cheap (only $3 per ride) and has the most heart-warming story involving a war veteran who worked through his PTSD by hand-painting 25+ animals. Once finished, the entire community came together to make it into a working carousel. Ahh – all the feels!

While downtown, there are endless eateres to explore. Try some coffee at New Moon Bakery , a beer at Knotted Root Brewing Company or try some local treats and favorites at Ned’s Restaurant .

A particular draw to Nederland is their unique festival scene. Throughout the year, they host an eclectic array of festivals for visitors and locals alike that range from organic farmer’s markets to indie concerts to coffin-races—seriously! 

Notable festivals in Nederland:

• In March, Nederland hosts Frozen Dead Guy Days which is well-worth a visit because it is seriously quirky. This festival attracts loads of visitors per year with its coffin-races, a polar plunge, live music and parades honoring Grandpa Bredo Morstoel (a historic figure who is apparently still cryogenically frozen IN the town). 
• From May through September, Nederland is home to a flourishing Sunday Farmer’s Market selling all the local goods!
• If you’re into local art, visit Nederland in June for their High Peaks Art Festival .
• Cherished by locals, the Ned*Ned festival consists of a 13 mile walk, hike or run throughout the surrounding trails. What makes this especially unique is the fact that participants are encouraged to dress in wacky costumes. Taking place in September, you’ll be able to experience all the gorgeous fall foliage. 
• Traveling in October? Pop by for Nederland’s own Oktoberfest. Aside from featuring German beers, this festival is famous for its ‘Fondo’ bike race.  

Outdoor activities in Nederland: 

• Check out Lost Lake via Hessie Trail which is fairly easy and about two hours long. 
• Visit Caribou Ranch Open Space which is especially stunning in autumn, but can be accessed all year long. 
• Looking for a real adventure? Tackle the difficult 12.9-mile Arapaho Glacier Trail . If you want to extend your adventure, you can also camp along this trail.

33. Glimpse the Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is another jaw-dropping stop due to its deep, narrow canyons, jutting rocks and unique desert landscapes. 

Shockingly, you don’t need a reservation ahead of time for this trip, but if you’re up for some camping at nearby Saddlehorn Campground , you should book in advance.

To enter the park, it costs $25 per vehicle or $15 if you’re hiking or biking (entrance is free with your annual park pass ). You can pay via cash or credit card. 

There are a few ways to explore this area which makes it quite accessible to all people. 

Visit by car

The Rim Rock Drive allows you to explore 23 miles of billion year old rock formations and picturesque landscapes by automobile.

There are various places you can stop along the way for a photo or stretch your legs for a hike. We recommend stopping at the visitor center and speaking with the local rangers who can suggest the best options for you based on your travel preferences. They are knowledgeable and always willing to help!

While the drive is completely paved, it is windy, steep and passes through three different tunnels. Therefore, you should be mindful and careful while driving. For a list of driving recommendations, check out this website .

Explore by hiking or biking 

When we travel, we always welcome any opportunity to jump out of our car and put on our hiking boots!

There are loads of hiking trails within Colorado National Monument from super simple to challenging. We recommend checking out Alltrails to choose one that suits your needs.

It is important to note that aside from the ranger station, there is no water source along these hikes so be sure to come prepared to stay hydrated. 

34. Pick peaches in Palisades

Did you know Palisades has some of the best produce in all of Colorado? Us either, but, well, apparently it does!

Known for its juicy, ripe peaches, Palisades also grows a wide array of fresh fruit from June through October, such as plumes, grapes, berries and apples. 

For over 50 years, Palisades has hosted a Peach Festival in August where you can enjoy everything … peachy! This includes peach desserts, peach farm tours and some peachy-keen live music (…too far?) 

Throughout the summer you can also enjoy the fresh produce sold at the local Farmer’s Market.

Wine, anyone? Aside from their array of fresh fruit, Palisades has a flourishing wine community. Through Rapid Creek Cycles , you can rent a bicycle ($36) and cruise to any of the nearby wineries. 

35. Experience Summit County in the summertime

While Summit County has a reputation for its outstanding ski resorts (see #17 on this list), it’s also a really popular place for outdoor adventures during summer as well. Located among the Dillion reservoir, there are loads of things to do during the warmer months of the year.

For an easy way to experience the entire area, you might consider a drive through Loveland Pass which passes through the continental divide and ascends around 12,000 feet. On this trip, you’ll weave through wondrous curves and steep cliffs. The paved roadway makes it a relatively safe and approachable drive. 

Always be mindful, however, when traveling in winter as conditions can make this roadway quite slippery. We always recommend reviewing road conditions – wherever you are – before heading out.   

Things to do in Summit County in summer

• In the summer months, mountain biking is a really popular excursion . Through Mountain View Sports , you can take part in their ‘Ride the Pass’ trip where they drop you off at the top of Vail Pass and you descend through the astounding vistas. Don’t worry if you aren’t experienced at mountain biking; this company caters to all skill levels.
• If you don’t love tours or are limited on time, tackle the Summit Country Bike Path (easy) or Black Power Pass (difficult) on your own. Besides these two, there are many others to pick from.
• Because the water is quite cold, you won’t want to swim, but you can take in the views and spend some time on the water by booking a boat tour. These range in style from sunset tours, historical tours to sailing lessons. 
• Love golfing? While Keystone is quite popular and has great reviews, there are numerous golf courses to choose from in the area for your budget and style.

Planning a trip out west?

We have TONS of resources on travel in the US and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate USA Travel Guide  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Day Trips from Denver
• Seriously Fun Things to Do in Denver
• Best Airbnbs in Denver for Every Type of Traveler
• Best Colorado Ski Resorts

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16 Most Scenic Towns in Colorado for Outdoor Lovers

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.

You won’t want to miss out on the best scenic towns in Colorado because they’re filled with many fun activities, like hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more.

Throughout this post, you’ll learn all about the cute mountain towns in Colorado in no particular order. As a Denver local, I’ve taken trips to all of the top mountain towns in the area, including those on this list. So, trust me, they’ve been scouted!

Keep reading to learn all about the best scenic towns in Colorado.

#1 Best Mountain Town in Colorado

The top Colorado mountain town is Estes Park . Located within a 2-hour drive from Denver, this town is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and has its own charm.

Table of Contents

Map of Colorado Mountain Towns

This post dives into each specific mountain town, but here’s a look at a glance.

Best Scenic Towns in Colorado

Estes Park , Colorado, is a picturesque town located in the Rocky Mountains. The town is known for its incredible views and beautiful scenery. Even though it’s not one of the cheapest scenic towns in Colorado, it’s still worth visiting.

Estes Park is also home to several attractions, such as The Stanley Hotel and Rocky Mountain National Park . The town is a popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why – Estes Park is simply beautiful!

Best Things to do in Estes Park

• Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway and get one of the best views you can get of the Rockies.
• Have a glass of wine at the popular Snowy Peaks Winery .
• Spend a day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park , one of the most popular national parks in the USA.
• Learn at the Estes Park Museum and explore their current exhibits.
• Take a long walk around Lake Estes, a beautiful spot for a peaceful stroll.

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• $ – Rocky Mountain Hotel & Conference Center
• $$ – Hotel Estes
• $$$ – The Ridgeline Hotel, Estes Park, Ascend Hotel Collection

Crested Butte

Crested Butte is a unique town nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Crested Butte’s trails and surroundings offer an endless amount to explore for those who love the outdoors.

The town itself is also quite quaint, with shops and restaurants that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a day of hiking or skiing, Crested Butte has something for everyone.

Best Things to do in Crested Butte

• Shop on Elk Ave and visit all of the breathtaking historic buildings that line the street. 
• Go skiing or snowboarding at Crested Butte Mountain Resort .
• Peruse the art at Paragon Gallery , a great spot for art lovers.
• Learn at the Crested Butte Museum , an underrated spot to visit in the town.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

• $ – Cristiana Guesthaus
• $$ – Elevation Hotel & Spa
• $$$ – One Bedroom Condo with Large Balcony over Mountaineer Square condo

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is known for its natural beauty and the excellent recreational opportunities that it offers.

The area is also home to several interesting historical sites, but most people visit Steamboat Springs to enjoy the skiing opportunities.

Best Things to do in Steamboat Springs

• Ski or snowboard at the Steamboat Ski Resort in winter.
• Relax or explore at the Old Town Hot Springs , which also features a fitness center.
• Peruse the beautiful art at the Steamboat Art Museum , which is located inside an old bank.
• Attend a summer concert at Yampa River Botanic Park . This is a great spot to relax and enjoy nature at any other time of the year!

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

• $ – Legacy Vacation Resorts Steamboat Springs Hilltop
• $$ – Homewood Suites By Hilton Steamboat Springs
• $$$ – La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Steamboat Springs

Breckenridge

Breckenridge , Colorado, is known for its breathtaking views, fantastic skiing, and great nightlife. The town is located in the Rocky Mountains and has a population of just over 5,000 people. 

It is the perfect place to relax after a long day of skiing or hiking. Breckenridge is a small town that feels like a big city thanks to its many shops, restaurants, and bars. Because it’s not very far from the city, this is a popular day trip from Denver.

Best Things to do in Breckenridge

• Ski or snowboard at Breckenridge Ski Resort , the most popular spot for outdoor activities in winter in the area.
• Go on a short hike to see the popular Breckenridge Troll , an absolute must for all ages.
• Peruse all the local shops in downtown Breckenridge and see what you might find.
• Take in the view and have a picnic at Carter Park and Pavilion.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

• $ – The Bivvi Hostel
• $$$ – The Ranahan by Vacation Club Rentals

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Idaho Springs

If you’re ever in the area and want to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, make your way to Idaho Springs, Colorado.

The town is located high in the Rocky Mountains, and as a result, it has a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

It’s only a short day trip from Denver and is filled with fun things to do. Plus, there are some incredible restaurants there, too!

Best Things to do in Idaho Springs

• Have a Colorado-style pizza at Beau Jo’s , but get in line early because the line can get long.
• Go on a tour of Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel , a historic mine.
• Hike up to St. Mary’s Glacier , a short hike with some of the best views in the area.
• Drive the Mt. Evans Scenic Byway, one of the most popular roads to drive in the state.

Where to Stay in Idaho Springs

• $$ – JC Suites
• $$$ – The Silver Lake Lodge

Buena Vista

Buena Vista, Colorado, is a small town located a short drive away from Denver. The population of Buena Vista is just under 3,000 people, and it has a small-town feel with a strong community spirit. 

This may just be a classic small town, but the views there are incredible, which is why it’s one of the best mountain towns close to Denver.

Best Things to do in Buena Vista

• Go white water rafting and get your blood pumping with Wilderness Aware Rafting .
• Learn at the Buena Vista Heritage Museum , which used to be an old courthouse.
• Hike the Barbara Whipple Trail to get out in nature and explore some of the area’s true beauty.

Where to Stay in Buena Vista

• $$$ – Surf Hotel & Chateau

Silverton, Colorado, is a small town in the mountains that has been around for a few hundred years. It has an old mining history and is also known for being home to one of the most scenic train rides in the country.

Today, the town is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, and other activities in the area.

Best Things to do in Silverton

• Learn at the San Juan County Historical Society Mining Heritage Center .
• Go skiing or snowboarding at the Silverton Mountain Ski Area .
• Take a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad .
• Drive the Million Dollar Highway for some of the area’s best views. Note that it’s not for those scared of heights!

Where to Stay in Silverton

• $ – Grand Imperial Hotel

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a beautiful and historic city located just south of Denver. It’s easily one of the best mountain towns near Denver. Most people visiting the city will take a day trip here!

It is known for its dramatic mountain views, shopping, and incredible outdoor attractions to explore. The city has a rich history that can be explored at various museums and landmarks.

Colorado Springs is also home to the United States Air Force Academy, which has a large campus presence.

Best Things to do in Colorado Springs

• Hike around the Garden of the Gods , a breathtaking red rock formation set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
• Take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway up to the top of Pikes Peak for sweeping views.
• Pay a visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo .
• Try your hand at the ropes course at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park .
• Go on a short hike to see the Broadmoor Seven Falls .

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

• $ – ColoRADo Adventure Hostel
• $$$ – The Lodge at Flying Horse

Located in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen , Colorado, is a picturesque town that is known for its colorful architecture and stunning landscapes.

The town was founded a few hundred years ago and has since grown to be a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful scenery and unique culture. 

The town features many shops, restaurants, art galleries, and performance venues. It is also home to some of the best outdoor attractions in Colorado, like the Maroon Bells, a must-see no matter the time of year.

Best Things to do in Aspen

• Shop around downtown Aspen to support the local store owners.
• Pay a visit to Maroon Bells, a breathtaking outdoor attraction set against the mountains.
• Go snowboarding or skiing at Aspen Mountain Ski Resort .
• Find peace and tranquility in the John Denver Sanctuary .

Where to Stay in Aspen

• $$ – St Moritz Lodge and Condominiums
• $$$ – St. Regis Aspen Resort

Gunnison is a small town nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It has a small population and is renowned for its stunning mountain views and beautiful architecture.

Gunnison is home to several restaurants and shops, as well as a variety of museums and galleries. The community also enjoys a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, biking, and climbing.

Most famously, Gunnison is also near one of Colorado’s national parks.

Best Things to do in Gunnison

• Spend a day in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park , going on the best hikes .
• Learn at the Gunnison Pioneer Museum .
• Pay a visit to the Hartman Rocks , where you can go mountain biking or even camping.
• See the scenic view at Tomichi Creek State Wildlife Area .

Where to Stay in Gunnison

• $ – The Inn at Tomichi Village
• $$ – Rodeway Inn Gunnison
• $$$ – Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gunnison, an IHG Hotel

Located in the San Juan Mountains of western Colorado, Telluride is a picturesque mountain town that is known for its stunning mountain views, unique architecture, and rich history. 

The town has a small population, and it’s famous for its annual Telluride Film Festival, which features some of the best independent films from around the world.

Locals and tourists alike will plan a trip to Telluride because of all its excellent outdoor activities. It’s also one of the best hiking towns in Colorado because there are so many trails in the area.

Best Things to do in Telluride

• Go skiing or snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort .
• Hike the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail to get outdoors.
• Attend an event in the popular town park.
• Learn at the Telluride Historical Museum .
• Ride the seasonal free gondola from the town up to the mountains.
• See the view at Bridal Veil Falls .

Where to Stay in Telluride

• $ – The Bivvi Hostel Telluride
• $$$ – Inn at Lost Creek

Durango, Colorado, is a beautiful place to live, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The colors of the landscape change dramatically as you move from elevation to elevation.

From the rolling green hills of the valley to the snow-capped peaks in the distance, Durango has something for everyone. 

With its diverse outdoor area, there is something for everyone to do in Durango. There is plenty to keep you busy, from hiking and biking trails to horseback riding and skiing. It’s popularly paired with visiting Silverton.

Best Things to do in Durango

• Check out the local art at the Durango Arts Center .
• Walk around and shop downtown to support the locals.
• Take a short trip to Mesa Verde National Park to see the cliff dwellings.
• Have a drink at Four Leaves Winery .

Where to Stay in Durango

• $$ – Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn
• $$$ – DoubleTree by Hilton Durango

Located in the Rocky Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Ouray is world-famous for its breathtaking scenery, rich mining history, and legendary ski resorts. It’s one of the quaint towns in Colorado you won’t want to miss.

Once a prosperous mining town, Ouray is now a popular tourist destination with plenty to offer visitors of all ages. Come explore this historic town and see why it’s one of the most beautiful places in Colorado!

Best Things to do in Ouray

• Take a dip in the Ouray Hot Springs , a must-do in this town.
• Hike in Box Canyon Falls Park.
• Try an ice climb with a trusted guide at Ouray Ice Park in the winter.
• Shop downtown at all of the local restaurants, souvenir stores, and museums.

Where to Stay in Ouray

• $$ – Matterhorn Inn Ouray
• $$$ – St. Elmo Hotel

Vail is known for its incredible skiing, but it is also one of the best Colorado mountain towns because it’s so picturesque. The Colorado blue sky is a constant backdrop to the town’s outdoor activities.

From shopping at local boutiques to enjoying live music in one of the numerous pubs, Vail has something for everyone.

Vail is unique because it’s an American city with a European vibe. Even a lot of the architecture is reminiscent of what you’d see in Austria or even Switzerland . 

Best Things to do in Vail

• Visit the peaceful Betty Ford Alpine Gardens .
• Go skiing or snowboarding at Vail Ski Resort.
• Check out the beautiful homes along Vail Valley Drive.
• Shop at Lionshead Place and try some of the local restaurants.

Where to Stay in Vail

• $$ – Sonnenalp
• $$$ – The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort

Leadville, Colorado, is a small town nestled in the Rocky Mountains with a colorful past. The town was founded in the 1800s and is now known for being the tallest city in Colorado. 

During the 1800s, Leadville was home to some of the most intense and dangerous mining competitions in history. The town’s colorful architecture, landscapes, and people are still visible today.

It’s one of the quirkiest and best small scenic towns in Colorado.

Best Things to do in Leadville

• Visit and learn at the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum .
• See a show or other concert at the Tabor Opera House.
• Shop downtown and support the locals. You never know what hidden gems you might find!

Where to Stay in Leadville

• $ – Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn

Glenwood Springs

Last but not least is Glenwood Springs, one of the best mountain towns to live in Colorado. Glenwood Springs is a charming town in Colorado that is known for its stunningly beautiful mountain landscapes.

The town is nestled among the Rocky Mountains. 

Glenwood Springs is home to many businesses, including many breweries, wineries, and art galleries. The town also has several attractions, including the Glenwood Caverns and the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool.

Best Things to do in Glenwood Springs

• Ride the gondola up to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park .
• Relax at the Glenwood Springs Hot Pool , which dates back to the 1800s.
• Pay a visit to the Iron Mountain Hot Springs , which has a great view of the mountains.
• Drive through Glenwood Canyon for incredible mountain scenery.
• Hike up to the famous gunslinger Doc Holliday’s grave .

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

• $ – Hanging Lake Inn
• $$ – Best Western Antlers
• $$$ – Residence Inn Glenwood Springs

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Mountain Towns in Colorado

Estes Park is 2 hours and 38 minutes from Breckenridge.

Steamboat Springs is 3 hours and 10 minutes from Estes Park.

Buena Vista is 1 hour and 13 minutes from Breckenridge.

Final Thoughts: Mountain Towns in Colorado

This post was all about the best scenic towns in Colorado. I hope you found the perfect place to visit during your next trip there! Don’t forget to share this post and save it for later.

Save this post for later:

Visit colorado

Woohoo, you’re heading to Colorado! As Colorado locals, we have tons of posts for this state. Explore more below!

• Learn all about where to stay in Telluride, Colorado .
• Visit one of the best Rocky Mountain National Park towns .
• Read our review of The Pad Hotel , our favorite hotel in Silverthorne, right outside of Breckenridge.
• Have a blast in Aspen with these things to do .
• Plan your itinerary with this list of best things to do in Vail .

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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Beautiful photos! I love hiking so I’ll have to visit some of these places when I visit Colorado.

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Snow-capped peaks, scenic grandeur: What to expect at Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is no hidden gem. 

Over 4.1 million people visited the park last year, making it the fifth most visited national park in America, according to National Park Service statistics. 

It’s so busy in the summer that timed entry reservations are required for a good chunk of each day.

Here’s what draws so many people to Rocky Mountain and what travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series .

What is so special about Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you close your eyes and think of the southern Rockies, “Rocky Mountain National Park captures all of that,” said the park’s Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson.

“Snow capped peaks, amazing recreational opportunities for 12 months out of the year, watchable wildlife , and scenic grandeur,” she said that’s what visitors always extol. 

She added that the Continental Divide runs right through the park, and the park is the headwaters for numerous major rivers.

What is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?

The answer depends on your interests.

“Do you want to see snow and ice, or do you want to see wildflowers and more greenery?” Patterson asked. “Are you interested in hiking? Are you interested in snowshoeing?” The park has more than 350 miles of hiking trails .

The busy season is late May through mid-October when temperatures are milder, all roads are open, and entry reservations are required during certain times of the day. 

“My favorite part about Rocky is just how different it is depending upon what season you visit the park,” Patterson said.

What city is closest to Rocky Mountain National Park? What town should I stay in?

“We have two wonderful communities that are right at the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park,” Patterson said. “Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side.”

She added that about 80% of visitors enter through Estes Park, which is also closer to Denver and its international airport. However, she said visitors enjoy both gateway communities. 

“Estes Park and Grand Lake both have wonderful amenities from lodging to restaurants to other activities that people can do when they're visiting this area,” she said. 

Can you drive through Rocky Mountain National Park without a reservation?

Yes, but it depends on when you visit.

Timed entry reservations are required to access most of the park between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. 

However, if you want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road, you’ll need a different type of reservation called Timed Entry+. That reservation grants access to all the parks' roads but is specifically required for Bear Lake Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20.

If you enter outside of those hours or dates, you won’t need a reservation, but it’s important to note that the park’s popular Trail Ridge Road , which connects the east and west sides of the park, is closed through the winter.

How long does it take to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?

“If somebody's coming when Trail Ridge Road is open, we recommend people to give themselves at least three hours to drop over the top of the park,” Patterson said. 

That also allows time to stop and take in views and shorter hikes along the way. 

“You never know what you might see as you drive along the road, and you want to give yourself plenty of time,” she said. “Also, the speeds of travel on the road should be slow … It’s not like you’re driving a highway.”

How much time do I need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Because we're so close to a large population in Colorado we have people that will come up here for two hours,” Patterson said. Locals can visit any time, but she said it would be “a bummer” to only spend a few hours in the park on a first visit. 

She said the average visit is around two days, though you can stay longer to experience more. 

Which Native tribes are tied to Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Rocky was established in 1915,” Patterson said, but she and the park point out that Native Americans have stewarded the land for thousands of years.

 “What is now Rocky Mountain National Park is part of the traditional homeland and territory of many present-day Tribal nations including, the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Montana; Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Oklahoma; Comanche Nation, Oklahoma; Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma, Northern Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Montana; Southern Ute Indian Tribe of the Southern Ute Reservation, Colorado; Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation, Utah; and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah,” the park acknowledges on its website.

What else should travelers know about Rocky Mountain?

It can feel like winter into May at the park, and winter can also creep into fall. 

Weather can also change rapidly and differ dramatically, depending on the elevation. The high altitude can also affect travelers who aren’t used to it.

“Just giving yourself some time to acclimate and taking care of yourself, like drinking lots of water, is really crucial because you can get dehydrated here really quickly,” she said. “Being prepared for traveling to a place like Rocky will make all the difference in the world.”

THE TOP 10 OUTDOOR PLACES TO GO IN COLORADO    

Perhaps more than any other US state, Colorado is all about the outdoors

Summer is fast approaching! And you know what that means — summer vacations!

If you’re looking for somewhere fun with lots of magnificent outdoor locations and activities , think about going to Colorado, which is savagely dramatic in winter — you know about the skiing and the glorious snow drenched mountains and mountaintop towns like Aspen — and gloriously accessible and pure-aired in the spring and summer. (It’s beautiful in the fall too, for the record.)

Colorado is rich in natural beauty and famous for its hot springs. The Rocky Mountains run through it and the average altitude is 6,800 feet.

Here are the top ten outdoor destinations in Colorado, the so-called Centennial State!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the  nation’s third-most visited park . The park sits near Denver, which makes it convenient to get to from all over the country.

If you’re up for a hike, Chasm Lake is a beautiful alpine-like lake hidden within a glacial cirque. The Nymph, Dream, and Emerald lakes are popular hikes as well, which allow you to see some magnificent geology.

The Wild Basin contains dramatic mountain vistas, waterfalls, flora and fauna to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the park.

Telluride is a small town, but it thrives on the outdoor fun and activities it has to offer. Its big draw is its ski slopes, sporting over 2,000 acres for skiers to tackle. The terrain is great for everyone, from beginners to experts.

The town also has beautiful trails for hikers and cyclists. If you want fun even higher in the air, there’s opportunities to enjoy some paragliding.

Telluride has   plenty of festivals  during its warmer months, dedicated to food, music, and film.

Colorado Springs

Visiting Colorado Springs will allow you to have access to some of the best hiking trails in the state. The city hosts outdoor activities any adventurer would love, including whitewater rafting in the Royal Gorge in Fremont County, hiking in Garden of the Gods Park, and cycling on the Barr Trail. If you love wildlife, the nearby parks will give you your fill.

Colorado Springs is rich with art, and art lovers can enjoy art walks in town to take it all in.

Vail is one of the world’s most popular ski resorts. During the warmer months, it has other attractions that warrant a visit: mountain biking, phenomenal hiking, plenty of golfing, and, of course, the ubiquitous whitewater rafting.

Vail also hosts many music and dance festivals. The Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival features orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic, that perform at the outdoor Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. The International Dance Festival and the Vail Jazz Festival are popular draws.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park, a free attraction, is one of the most unique places in Colorado. The park’s dunes are the biggest in North America, standing up to 750 feet tall. The park allows visitors to bring a sled or snowboard and cruise down them.

The park offers picnicking, hiking, and camping opportunities. And its elevation and rural location, thus undimmed by light pollution, make it a prime location for stargazing.

Boulder is near Denver and is a bit smaller. However, it has the Rockies and Flatirons as a backdrop and visitors can experience both. The city has excellent trails for hiking and biking. Nature lovers will feel at home surrounded by the natural beauty that permeates the city.

Boulder Creek is perfect for tubing, if you’re looking for something to do in the water. And there’s the city itself to explore.

Aspen is known for some of the best skiing in the country, and is a classic, old Western town. There’s more to do here than just hit the slopes, though. During the summer, people can ride the Aspen Mountain Gondola. Photography buffs will be able to catch stunning views of the city and the surrounding view.

Aspen also offers whitewater rafting, horseback riding, fly fishing, hot air balloon rides, and fly fishing. Sample some of the city’s local craft beers. Go on. We just gave you permission.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is also known for its skiing and snowboarding. Once the snow melts, however, the town’s beauty comes alive. The warm weather puts the wildflowers on display across the sea of green around the city.

Take a trip to the Yampa River to fly fish, or enjoy inner tube rides and rafting. After a good hike or some mountain biking, check out the natural hot springs to soothe your by-now sore muscles.

Late June/early July is when the town hosts its Hot Air Balloon Rodeo — just let those words sink in and imagine what that might be — and Art in the Park festival. You’ll be able to see colorful hot air balloons, over fifty art vendors, and have food, drink, and live entertainment. Seriously, see you there.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park focuses on human history as its main attraction. Cliff Palace is the park’s big draw. There is a complex of very sophisticated cliff dwellings built by the Anasazi, a native American people also known as the Ancestral Puebloans. These structures date back to 1190 AD, five hundred years before Columbus discovered the Caribbean.

Chapin Mesa also houses some of the best known cliff dwellings in the park. Long House is another location to see them.

Grand Junction

Grand Junction is close to two notable attractions, which makes it an excellent stop on  road trips for motorhome owners —Colorado National Monument and Grand Mesa are short drives away from the city.

Grand Junction is also a thriving arts community. The city has one of the largest outdoor sculpture collections in the country.

And Grand Junction is within Colorado’s wine country! At last, we’re getting to the good stuff! You’ll have the chance to try the area’s locally grown wines, and you can tour the vineyards in the area. That’s a very valid outdoor activity!

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I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

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Colorado News | How to see the April solar eclipse in Colorado

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Colorado news | a perfect 10: matt davis, du pioneers shut down no. 1-ranked boston college to claim record 10th ncaa title, 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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Vote for your favorite luxury rv resort!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

A stay at these 20 luxury RV resorts, nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S, gives you the best of both worlds — the comforts of your own RV with the amenities of a five-star resort. The perks go far beyond full hookups and Wi-Fi; many include extras like swimming pools, movie theaters, tennis courts, private docks, and full-service spas.  Which luxury RV resort would you most like to visit? Vote for your favorite once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 6 at noon ET. We'll announce the 10 winners on Wednesday, May 15.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

A stay at these 20 luxury RV resorts, nominated by an expert panel as the best in the U.S, gives you the best of both worlds — the comforts of your own RV with the amenities of a five-star resort. The perks go far...   Read More

Best Luxury RV Resort Nominees

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Bluewater Key RV Resort

Key West, Florida

Bluewater Key RV Resort in Key West welcomes RVers with near-perfect weather throughout the year, easy access to nearby attractions and golf courses, and stellar amenities. Enjoy conveniences like a temperature-controlled swimming pool, private tropical tiki huts, a dog park, clubhouse, private docks, and high-speed fiber internet.

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Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country

New Braunfels, Texas

Located in scenic Texas Hill Country, Camp Fimfo aptly describes itself as “a Texas-sized retreat on the Guadalupe River," with 1,000 feet of river frontage. The luxury campsite is family friendly and has monthly rates for those who want to make it a real home away from home. Some on-site amenities include a heated pool, water playground, hot tubs, mini golf, waterslides, and pickleball courts.

Photo courtesy of Matt Theriault

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins

Auburndale, Florida

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort invites guests to “get into the island state of mind” in central Florida. Located conveniently between Orlando and Tampa, their oversized sites have plenty of room to accommodate all RV sizes and include full hookups, free Wi-Fi and cable access, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table. Each week, the resort features live music and entertainment with delicious food trucks and fun activities for all family members.

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The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

Orlando, Florida

Equipped with 750 acres of lush Sunshine State land, The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are perfect for a little relaxation in between hitting the parks. While wildlife and walking trails abound across the area, guests can also take advantage of the archery classes, canoeing sessions, and on-site pool complete with a lengthy waterslide.

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Dark Sky RV Campground

Kanab, Utah

A paradise for astronomy aficionados, Dark Sky RV Campground offers a spectacular perspective on the scenic Utah city of Kanab. In addition to amenities like private bathroom suites and an outdoor kitchen complete with a grill, the site offers 40 acres of pristine land that are almost totally free of light pollution, providing the perfect opportunity for stargazing on clear nights.

Photo courtesy of Austin Marvel

Firefly Resort

Fredericksburg, Texas

During a lengthy journey across Texas Hill Country, Firefly Resort serves as the perfect base for a few days of relaxation. While the massive two-tiered pool complex serves as its centerpiece, there's a wealth of other amenities to enjoy during a stay, with options spanning from a bookable private chef experience to a playground for younger guests to enjoy.

Photo courtesy of Drazen Zigic / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground

Buellton, California

Fire pits, massive pools, and a sprawling playground are just a few of the amenities that await guests at Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground, a lauded property in the heart of Santa Ynez wine country. Visitors can swing by on-property dining venue Feather & Fire for some ultra-flavorful pizza, and any canine pals can enjoy the dog park.

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Hilton Head Island Motorcoach Resort

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head is renowned for its incredible golf courses, but there's a lot more to do across the island than just hit the driving range. For those who prefer to stay in, the on-property spa tub, pool, and gym are all top spots, while bike rentals and outdoor pickleball and tennis courts are available for anyone in need of some fresh air.

Photo courtesy of Nena Quick

Las Vegas Motorcoach Resort

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas Motorcoach (LVM) Resort offers Class A Motorcoach facilities across 41 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. Some 400 landscaped sites are shaded with more than 1,000 palm trees, while amenities include a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, resort-style swimming pools, a spa, pickleball courts, and a fitness center.

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Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Townsend, Tennessee

Located on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is a top spot for basking in the verdant beauty of Appalachia. Incredible hiking opportunities abound all around the site, while activities like bingo and trivia are perfect for befriending fellow travelers — and to sweeten the deal, spa services can be booked for guests as well.

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Luxury RV Resort

Gulf Shores, Alabama

The southern shores of Alabama are renowned for their idyllic beauty, and Luxury RV Resort is perfectly equipped to showcase its wonders. Beyond the 97 RV sites scattered across the property, visitors can play a few rounds of cornhole or shuffleboard, use the kitchen in the on-site clubhouse, or do a few loads of laundry after a long day lounging at the beach.

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Motorcoach Country Club

Indio, California

The Motorcoach Country Club in the Palm Springs area features scenic beauty and the amenities of a five-star resort. Regular activities and events — like bocce ball tournaments, billiards nights, pickleball, and golf outings — keep the community active and engaged.

Photo courtesy of Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort

Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort

Lake Toxaway, North Carolina

Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort, located in the mountains of western North Carolina, gives visitors easy access to Lake Toxaway and the surrounding waterfalls, lakes, streams, and parklands. On-site amenities include pickleball courts, bocce ball, a fitness facility, two swimming pools, and a dog park.

Photo courtesy of Naples Motorcoach Resort

Naples Motorcoach Resort

Naples, Florida

The Naples Motorcoach Resort is one of the only motorcoach resorts with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Features like a large infinity pool, spa, fitness center, dog park, private theater, two card rooms, and outdoor pickleball courts lend the feeling of a five-star resort.

Photo courtesy of Kristine Daniels

Normandy Farms

Foxboro, Massachusetts

Normandy Farms, deep in the woods between Boston and Cape Cod, has been serving RVers since 1971. Facilities include a bike park, creative arts center, disc golf course, dog park, fitness center, playgrounds, swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a wellness center.

Photo courtesy of welcomia // Getty Images

Resort at Canopy Oaks

Lake Wales, Florida

Featuring 200 acres of green space, Resort at Canopy Oaks hosts five styles of RV sites, including waterfront, premium, and platinum. All sites come with concrete pads, full hookups, and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Visitors can enjoy amenities like a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, clubhouse, tiki bar, and an on-site pizza and sandwich shop.

Photo courtesy of Kampgrounds of America, Inc.

Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Holiday

Summerland Key, Florida

For visitors exploring the beauty of the Florida Keys via RV, Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Holiday offers particularly lavish accommodations. Rental boats, paddleboards, and kayaks are available for guests who want to explore the sparkling shores, while those who prefer to stay inland can hop on a rental bike or spend their time lounging by the property's pool.

Photo courtesy of Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains

Granby, Colorado

Kayaking, bowling, and gold panning are just a few of the activities available for guests at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains, a sprawling RV camping site in Colorado's Grand County. During the warmer months, guests can take full advantage of the rushing Colorado River with fly-fishing and bocce ball, while skiing is a top activity for visitors during the winter.

Photo courtesy of The Waves Signature RV Resort

The Waves RV Resort

The Waves RV Resort offers guests easy access to the Gulf Cost’s nearby white sand beaches. As a 55+ active lifestyle resort, the gated, 56-acre RV destination has amenities like a clubhouse, a fitness center, billiard room, and a tiki lounge with fire pits. Lakefront RV sites offer full hookups with cable and Wi-Fi.

Photo courtesy of SeventyFour // Getty Images

Winding River Resort

Grand Lake, Colorado

Just west of Rocky Mountain National Park, Winding River Resort highlights the spectacular beauty of the Centennial State at its best. All throughout the year, RV owners arrive in droves to take advantage of the massive array of outdoor activities, with fishing, hiking, farm visits, snowmobiling, and horseback trail rides all available for guests.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

15 Best Places To Visit In Texas If You Love Outdoors

I t may come as a surprise, but while the main destinations that may come to mind when you think of the Lone Star State are places like Dallas, Houston, or Austin, there’s actually a ton lot more to Texas than meets the eye! If you’re a nature lover, you’ve got to check out these amazing places to visit in Texas if you love the outdoors!

The Lone Star State is a fabulous destination for all things nature, be it pristine beaches, otherworldly-looking rock formations, rugged ranches, massive caverns, and sky-high mountains. It’s also a huge state. Whether you’re traveling by car and selecting a smaller region of the state, or flying from one major city to another, there’s so much to see. Sleep under the stars, see fields of the Bluebonnet state flower or make a trip to the beach. Put in simple words, Texas has a bit of everything when it comes to the outdoors.

15 Places To Visit In Texas If You’re Outdoorsy

My recommendation is to pick one or two of these places to visit in Texas and not to overwhelm yourself. It’s a big state. If you want to see the whole state and really explore Texas, carve out a week. Beach hopping is easy because you can drive along the coast and see if the different beaches. The middle of the state is harder because there’s more agriculture between the major cities.

Padre Island National Seashore

Did you know Texas is home to the largest undeveloped barrier island in the entire world? While you would expect it to be sitting somewhere in the Pacific or on the Caribbean, it’s actually located on the coast of Texas and it’s named Padre Island! As part of the National Parks system, Padre Island National Seashore is a great way to see the island.

Dividing the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre, this 130,434-acre seashore is home to a ton of different landscapes ranging from enormous sand dunes to untouched grasslands and contains just about everything you could wish for in a beachside escapade.

There are some very remote areas of the park where you can experience solitude in this natural landscape: Little Shell Beach, Big Shell Beach, Yarborough Pass, and Mansfield Channel. These areas can only be reached by driving along the beach.

Aside from its unparalleled beauty, there’s a ton to do at South Padre Island National Seashore. In its menu of activities, you’ll find camping, bird-watching (about half of North American migratory birds make stops here), four-wheeler cruises around the island, and turtle release missions! Little explorers can earn a badge by participating in the Junior Ranger program and completing the park’s activity book.

Big Bend National Park

As one of the largest national parks in the United States, Big Bend National Park is a haven for gorgeous views, wildlife sightings galore, and a ton of activities to fully get to know its varied terrain as well as some of the most iconic views in Texas when it comes to natural landscapes.

A few of the can’t miss activities while exploring Big Bend National Park include walking along the Rio Grande River, exploring the Chihuahuan Desert, seeing massive towering cliffs, hiking in search of the best vistas of the Chisos Mountains, and hiking to see The Window, the most emblematic view at Big Bend if not entire Texas!

The park boasts more types of birds, bats, butterflies, ants, and scorpions than any other national park in the United States. The varied habitats make is an amazing destination to see different types of wildlife.

It’s also the best destination to see Bluebonnet flowers, with its own Big Bend Bluebonnet species – the largest of all bluebonnets. Blooms happen a little earlier than elsewhere in the state: February through March.

Enchanted Rock

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock is the second-largest granite dome in the country and one of the most sought-after natural landmarks in the state due to its humongous size and its pink hues.

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the surroundings at Enchanted Rock and another wonderful way to experience the area is by overnighting here. The area is considered Dark Sky territory, which essentially means there’s no light pollution anywhere nearby, making stargazing a true treat!

Caverns of Sonora

Formed from limestone several million years ago, exploring the Caverns of Sonora will make you feel as though you’re inside an Indiana Jones set. It’s known as Earth’s most revered underground treasures.

Located near the city of Sonora, this massive cave is actually home to one of the biggest collections of calcite crystals in the entire world, with some sections of it being so heavily packed with these formations that they make it look as though its walls belong inside an entirely different planet. 

Go 155 feet below the surface and take a tour of the caverns. There are several different tour to pick from. Be prepared for a physically challenging experience with plenty of stairs, but the crystals are some of the most beautiful to see.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Texas was once submerged underwater, and even though that may feel a bit hard to believe, a visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park will change your mind.

In fact, the park is considered one of the world’s best examples of a fossil reef from the Premium Era. While visiting, you’ll get to see tons of fossils encapsulated in rocks, all of which are from underwater creatures!

Other activities to do at the Guadalupe Mountains include hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, feeling as though you traveled back in time by visiting El Capitan Peak in search of beautiful views and pioneer wagon trails, and seeing Guadalupe Peak, which is the highest point in Texas as over 8,000 feet!

Colorado Bend State Park

Offering incredibly scenic views and natural beauty galore, Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most sought-after natural attractions in the state for one reason: Gorman Falls, an impressive 60-foot waterfall that cascades into a grotto blanketed in ferns!

To get there, you’ll need to hike 1.5. miles through beautiful ranch country, down a pretty rocky path, and a pretty slippery moss-covered stairway, but the views of this beautiful waterfall are guaranteed to be worth the trek!

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island is a 4,000-acre gem and one of my favorite places to visit in Texas. Mustang Island State Park is at the southern end of the 18-mile-long Mustang Island and it’s home to over 400 species of birds. The best time to visit is during spring and fall migrations. If you’re not into birding, it also offers some of the best fishing in Texas. A unique way to see the park is by paddling the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail. The 20 miles of trails pass through some of the best shallow-water fishing areas in Texas. You’ll see tons of native wildlife!

It’s a great destination if you’re on a budget. The park has 50 primitive campsites. Sleep by the beach enjoy a couple of days of beachcombing, swimming, and paddling.

Palo Duro State Park

As the second largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro State Park is often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas”. This is one of the best places to visit in Texas if you’re a shutterbug. It’s a stunning backdrop for photos.

Aside from the jaw-dropping views of the canyon itself, what makes it extra special are the multicolored sandstone formations you’ll find all over the park, be it through hiking, biking, or horseback riding across its 30 miles worth of trails.

Another must-do activity to do while at Palo Duro is staying the night. Camping is possible here, but we recommend trying out a “glamping” experience while here instead! Each glamping site is fully furnished with air conditioning, luxury rustic furnishings, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, games, bicycles, gas grills and gas fire pits, covered porches with porch swings.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

If your idea of being outdoors is a bit more manicured, head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden . It’s a natural escape in the middle of the big city. It’s 66 acres total and voted one of the best botanical gardens in the country.

I love their ornamental garden, A Tasteful Place, if you want to learn about eating fresh, sustainable, locally-grown food. Enjoy three free daily tastings made with seasonal produce, cooking demos and more. Another great area is their Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Children can connect with nature through 8 acres of beautiful play space that educates and inspires.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Just a short drive from Fort Worth and you can see where the dinosaurs roamed. Dinosaur Valley State Park is one of the best places to visit in Texas as an outdoorsy family. Long ago, the dinosaurs lived near the Paluxy River in Texas.

Ride a horse and look for dinosaur tracks, but you have to look closely because sometimes they’re in the riverbeds. Park rangers can help guests find the tracks on guided tours. Other park activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and fishing. One of the coolest things to do is use the park’s app. Download the app before your park visit and map out the dinosaur tracks that you find!

Fort Worth Water Gardens

It’s hard to find zen within big cities, but you can find some at the Fort Worth Water Gardens . It’s a beautiful and refreshing oasis near the convention center. While it’s not a green space, it’s a gorgeous place to unwind and take in some fresh air if you’re in the city. Designed by Philip Johnson, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is an architectural and engineering marvel to be enjoyed any time of the year. It’s an urban park unlike any other that you’re sure to admire.

Carleen Bright Arboretum

Located in Woodway, Texas, the Carleen Bright Arboretum extends over 16 acres that are home to lovely botanical gardens. It’s a family-friendly outdoor space where even leashed dogs are welcome. Botanical gardens, reflection ponds, fountains and nature trails make it a great destination to visit. Don’t miss the popular cactus garden and roses. Walk the Todd Willis Nature Trail and feel surrounded by woodland nature. It’s a great way to spend a half-day.

Big Thicket National Preserve

SouthEast Texas is home to multiple habitats and Big Thicket National Preserve protects them. Hiking trails and waterways meander through nine different ecosystems where guests can see all types of life. Explore longleaf pine forests and breathtaking cypress-lined bayous.

The preserve doesn’t offer any formal campsites, but instead welcomes campers to backcountry camping. You’ll need to hike or paddle in with all of your supplies. Camping is allowed in the woods, at least 500 feet from roads, trails, and the park boundary. It’s a true, very primitive, camping experience.

Daingerfield State Park

Daingerfield State Park is known for ginormous tall trees. Walk the forest trails and feel teeny tiny under the canopy of trees. You’ll see pines, oaks, and dogwoods.  There’s also an 80-acre lake in the park where you can swim, paddle or fish. Combine the lake with hiking and walk the Rustling Leaves Trail, it’s a 2.4-mile easy hike around the lake.

If you want to make it an overnight trip, reserve a historic cabin. Two cabins are four-person, one is six-person, and the Bass Lodge sleeps up to 15 people. All cabins have bathrooms and kitchens.

Galveston’s sun-kissed beaches make it the perfect spot for outdoor fun. It’s one of the best places to visit in Texas if you love paddling. The island ecosystem harbors are unique and house precious wildlife. Head to Galveston Island State Park, which is the region’s go-to destination for nature lovers. Bring your kayak (or rent one) and paddle along one of their three trails. The water on the trails is usually calm, which is great for paddling, along with fishing out on the water. Check out the paddling trails:

• Paddle on wide expanses of open water on the Dana Cove Trail (2.8 miles)
• Get close-up views of shorebirds on the Jenkins Bayou Trail (2.9 miles)
• Hit the more challenging Oak Bayou Trail (4.2 miles) and paddle among secluded bayous, open coves, and seagrass beds.

The post 15 Best Places To Visit In Texas If You Love Outdoors appeared first on Savvy Mama Lifestyle .

Watch CBS News

When and where to watch the 2024 partial solar eclipse in Denver and Colorado

By Ashley Portillo

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 9:04 AM MDT / CBS Colorado

Around lunch time Monday in Denver, get your solar eclipse glasses ready and head outside.

People in Colorado will have the opportunity to see a partial solar eclipse late Monday morning and early afternoon. People won't be able to see the full eclipse, because Colorado is not in the path of totality .

The solar eclipse will last about 2 ½ hours with peak visibility at 12:40 p.m. That's when 65% of the sun will be covered by the moon.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is just one of many local places hosting an event for people all ages to watch the eclipse. The museum will have 30 minute presentations in the planetarium. They'll be teaching people about what an eclipse is, the characteristics of a total eclipse and how to safely watch one. That includes using eclipse glasses because it's one of the best options to protect your eyes. People can also use a kitchen colander to display shadows, where each of the holes in the item will act as a pinhole camera.

"We can pull out a kitchen colander, and that'll project the eclipse onto the ground around us, and through all the holes so your kiddos can be looking down at the ground safely and still be able to see the full eclipse," said Emily Doherty, who works at the museum.

Doherty added that the last eclipse viewing event at the museum was in October for the annular eclipse.

"It was very exciting, lots of smiling faces, very busy, and a great way to build community with science lovers all around us," said Doherty.

The event at the museum runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The next total solar eclipse in the United States will be twenty years from now in 2044. 

Ashley Portillo is a reporter for CBS News Colorado. Read her latest reports or check out her bio and send her an email .

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