Best small towns in Colorado are often like hidden secrets, whispered among the trees and across mountain passes. Some of them are known only to those well-informed and willing to explore off the beaten path, while others are inundated by hundreds of tourists every year.
On a Colorado road trip, you can explore charming small towns like Boulder, Durango, Crested Butte, and Breckenridge. Each of these Colorado mountain towns tell their own tale, with every turn revealing a new chapter of history, culture, and charm.
They offer incredible views of the Rocky Mountains, outdoor activities for all seasons, and friendly locals. Here is an ultimate guide to the best small towns in the Centennial State.
Also Read: 39 Best Things to do in Colorado
Best Small Towns in Colorado
Home to rocky mountaintops and sunny skies, Colorado is the perfect place for nature lovers looking for an ideal small town getaway.
Vacation in charming mountain settlements with hot springs and spas. Come across hidden lake towns providing year-round fishing.
Stumble across a ghost town steeped in mining lore. Take a road trip to the western slopes to explore towns known for its wineries and wine festivals.
Enjoy a Christmas high up in the Rockies. Go on a spring break and enjoy activities like white water rafting, scenic train rides, and hot air balloons.
There are countless amazing small towns to stumble across in this beautiful state.
Here are the best small towns in Colorado to explore on your next trip.
Estes Park
Estes Park is located in the Rocky Mountains near Denver.
Surrounded by soaring peaks and alpine forests, Estes Park is ideal for nature lovers.
Estes Park is the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and is famous for its variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, fishing, and kayaking.
Drive along the Trail Ridge Road that traverses the Rocky Mountains and the peaks of the Continental Divide.
Enjoy the scenery at your own pace, photograph stunning sunrises, and catch glimpses of distant peaks and glacier-carved valleys.
But Downtown Estes Park has its own undeniable charm – which contributes a lot its claim of being one of the best small towns in Colorado.
Walk down Main Street. Spend time checking out the local shops, bars, and restaurants.
Do visit Mountain Blown Glass, a hand-blown glass studio, owned by a local family.
Visit the Red Rose Rock Shop and Dicks Rock Museum and explore a variety of rocks, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and decor.
Rock Cut Brewing Company offers delicious craft beer.
The laid-back ambiance, live music performances, and outdoor seating make it a great place to hang out.
Another must-visit spot is the Estes Park Memorial Observatory, where you can stargaze and marvel at the spectacular views of the night sky.
Open Air Adventure Park in Estes Park is the go-to spot for thrilling zip-lining courses and high rope courses.
Durango
The historic town of Durango is perfect if you want to go on a scenic train ride, mountain bike the trails in San Juan National Forest, or enjoy the slope at Purgatory Ski Resort.
Old saloons, galleries, and boutique shops line the streets of Downtown Durango.
11th Street Station is a fun place with live music and lots of dining options to explore.
Make sure to stop by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum to learn about the history of train travel in this region.
Grab a bite at The Ore House, and try their famous Prime Rib!
You will also find several outdoor adventures around Durango.
Ready to take on the rushing rapids?
Go on an adventure of a lifetime – white water rafting on the Animas River!
You will be navigating your raft through the twists, turns, and drops of the river while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
Love history? Ever wondered what life was like for the ancient Pueblo people?
You need to visit the sprawling Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site in Southwest Colorado.
At the park, you can visit well-preserved archaeological sites, hike challenging trails, attend ranger-led programs, and even experience what it was like to live in a reconstructed pit house.
Picnic, paddleboard or kayak on the clear blue waters of Lake Nighthorse amongst beautiful vistas.
Silverton
Silverton was once a very prosperous and historic former mining town during the days of the Colorado Gold Rush.
Today, this small town is a favorite haunt of tourists and nature lovers.
It is surrounded by the magnificent San Juan Mountains, and its streets are lined with charming Victorian homes and storefronts.
Silverton boasts many old buildings that have been converted into boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants – each one unique in its own way.
Make sure to check out Handlebars Food & Saloon – a popular spot for burgers, wings, and live music.
Check out the historic Grand Imperial Hotel or the San Juan County Historical Society Museum for a look at Silverton’s unique history.
Mayflower Gold Mill is an interesting place to explore, as is the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour on rickety train tracks.
Take a road trip on the Million Dollar Highway.
This section of US Route 550 or the San Juan Skyway between Silverton and Ouray, is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado.
The winding road goes through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains and offers amazing views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls.
Creede
Creede, Colorado is the best place to go if you are in the mood to chase Wild West town feels.
Situated in the rippling hills of Southern Colorado, Creede is a dream destination for anyone seeking adventure, history and scenic landscapes.
There are many things to do in downtown Creede.
The Rio Grande County Historical Society Mining Museum has an extensive collection of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts dating back to the 1800s.
You get a glimpse into the lives of miners, their tools and equipment.
For lovers of theatre and the arts, the Creede Repertory Theatre is a must-visit attraction.
Check out the many eateries, pubs, and cafes in Creede serving a variety of cuisines.
Stop by the Square Peg Brewerks – a local favorite that offers craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and delicious pub grub.
Looking to explore the surrounding landscape?
You will be amazed by the stunning beauty of the nearby Wheeler Geological Area.
This unique landscape is a legacy of continuous volcanic eruptions.
The area is a maze of towering rock formations and sandstone cliffs that have been eroded into unusual shapes and patterns by wind and water.
Looking for a scenic hike? Visit the beautiful North Clear Creek Falls.
This waterfall is located along the Silver Thread Scenic and Historic Byway and drops 100 feet into the rocky canyon below, making for an awe-inspiring sight.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs, a small town in Southwest Colorado, is known for its hot springs, rugged mountains, and sheer natural beauty.
One of the highlights of visiting Pagosa Springs is Treasure Falls!
The 105 feet waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery.
You can reach it via a hiking trail through the San Juan National Forest that will lead you to an observation deck with a view of the falls.
Or make the drive to nearby Piedra Falls, a 30ft waterfall that pours into a crystal clear pool.
Another favorite is the Piedra River Trail, a 5.3-mile path with beautiful rock formations along the way.
The trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and fishing.
Looking for attractions within the city itself?
Head over to the San Juan River Walk to enjoy people watching, bird watching, and spectacular views of the town.
Take a dip in the natural hot springs. Browse through the stores in downtown Pagosa Springs.
End your day with delicious Mexican food or indulge in some homemade fudge at The Choke Cherry Tree.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, is our favorite mountain town in the Centennial State.
It is known for its world-class ski resort, historic charm, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Visit the Breckenridge Welcome Center to gather information about all the exciting things you can do in this town.
Explore Main Street and discover many unique boutiques, souvenir shops, breweries and restaurants.
Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or fat-biking through the scenic trails at the Nordic center.
Hit the ski slopes and enjoy festive Christmas activities at Breckenridge Ski Resort.
Challenge yourself with a hike to Quandary Peak, one of Colorado’s highest peaks reaching 14,265 feet.
Admire the spectacular scenery of wildflowers, forests, and alpine tundra as you make your way to the top.
Drive the Boreas Pass Road to see the mystical beauty of aspen trees as well as historic railroad landmarks.
Hike through the remote and beautiful Blue Lakes Trail featuring towering peaks, wildflowers, and the impossibly blue water.
Ouray
Ouray offers a slew of outdoor and cultural adventures from breathtaking waterfalls to fascinating mining tours.
It is often referred to as the “Switzerland of America” and is one of the best small towns in Colorado.
Box Canyon Waterfall & Park is a fantastic place to start your explorations in Ouray.
The park features the stunning waterfall that cascades over the canyon walls into Box Canyon.
Hike to see the waterfall from below or climb to the breathtaking suspension bridge hanging over the plunging gorge.
Ouray Ice Park is home to over 200 climbing routes and a hit in the winter season.
Love history?
Step back in time and explore Ouray’s rich mining history on a tour of the Bachelor Syracuse Mine.
You can see the abandoned mining equipment and shafts used by miners long ago.
You can even try panning for gold at the mine.
Then its time to explore downtown Ouray.
Check out the local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Grab a delicious burger at Maggie’s Kitchen or relax and unwind with a beer at the Ouray Brewery.
The Alchemist Museum & Penthouse is the perfect place to geek out on vintage pharmacy equipment and explore the town’s past through a different lens.
Take a ride on the Million Dollar Byway to explore the Uncompahgre Gorge famous for its dramatic cliffs and wildlife encounters.
Lake City
Lake City, Colorado is off the radar for most visitors to Colorado.
This small Colorado town is packed with outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history.
It is a perfect destination for family road trips, Colorado spring break vacations, and adventures with friends.
Downtown Lake City is a historic district with many buildings dating back to the late 1800s.
Learn about Lake City’s fascinating history at the Hinsdale County Museum.
Housed in the historic Armory building, the museum offers a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Lake City’s mining boom, early settlers, and traditional ways of life.
Afterwards, head over to the Lake City Bakery and Cafe for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake City offers an abundance of exciting activities.
Walk along Lake Fork of Gunnison River that flows through Lake City or go fishing in one of its tributaries for trout.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway connects Lake City to Silverton and is known for its breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.
You can hike, bike or off-road along this route.
This route takes you through high mountain passes, historic ghost towns, and stunning views of wildflowers and wildlife.
For a scenic drive, head out on the Engineer Pass that links Silverton and Ouray with Lake City.
Explore historic buildings, an old jailhouse and see dramatic cliffs up close as you make your way to the summit.
Fishing enthusiasts will love a visit to Lake San Cristobal, Colorado’s second-largest natural lake.
The lake is known for its abundant fish species like trout and salmon.
Lake City Ice Park is quite popular in winter for its ice-climbing events.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is a year-round paradise for outdoor adventurers.
Enjoy the many mountain biking trails in summer. Hike the Colorado Trail in fall to see changing leaves at Kebler Pass. Go cross-country skiing in winter.
Or take a scenic drive on the West Elk Loop, one of Colorado’s most spectacular drives.
Crested Butte is also home to an active arts scene.
Enjoy local art exhibits at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts or attend live music and theater performances.
The town hosts many festivals throughout the year including Vinotok Fall Festival, Crested Butte Film Festival, and Crested Butte Music Festival.
And of course, don’t miss out on the world-class skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort.
With over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain, this ski resort offers something for everyone from beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds.
After a day of adventure, relax and unwind in the charming downtown area filled with quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and cozy accommodations.
Crested Butte is also known for its vibrant nightlife with many bars and live music venues to choose from.
Telluride
Telluride is probably the most famous small town in Colorado – a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Though it’s gained fame as a ski destination, its off-season is equally charming.
Surrounded by towering cliffs, the town has a rich history, marked by festivals that showcase film, music, and even hot air balloons.
Every corner of this town tells a different story, from its mining past to its vibrant present.
Hike the famous Jud Wiebe Trail for stunning views of Telluride and its surrounding peaks.
Take the free gondola ride to Mountain Village and enjoy panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains.
Explore the historic district with a guided walking tour or on your own, taking in the unique architecture and charming local shops.
Be sure to taste some delicious food at one of the many award-winning restaurants in Telluride.
And if you’re lucky, catch a show at the historic Sheridan Opera House, known for its intimate concerts and performances.
For outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of options in Telluride.
In winter, hit the slopes at Telluride Ski Resort with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain.
In summer, take a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway and stop at Bridal Veil Falls – one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado.
Or go on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the San Miguel River.
Telluride truly has something for everyone, making it a must-visit small town in Colorado.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a charming small town located between Aspen and Vail.
It’s known for its unique hot springs, including the world-famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool – the largest outdoor mineral pool in the world.
Spend a day relaxing in the soothing waters or try out the many waterslides at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
For stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains, take a ride on the Glenwood Gondola up to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
This amusement park offers thrill rides, cave tours, and breathtaking views from its mountaintop location.
The downtown area is filled with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries – perfect for an afternoon stroll.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, head to Hanging Lake – a stunning turquoise lake nestled in the mountains.
This popular hiking trail will take you through beautiful landscapes and end at the pretty lake.
Glenwood Springs is also known for its many outdoor activities including skiing, snowshoeing, biking, and fishing.
It’s a great destination for nature lovers looking to explore Colorado’s scenic beauty.
Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs, a small town near Colorado Springs, is worth visiting on a day trip.
This charming locality is known for its natural mineral springs which have been an attraction since the late 19th century.
The springs, each with its own mineral composition, provide a unique experience to visitors.
Some of the famous springs are Soda Springs, Navajo Springs, and Seven Minute Spring.
The town’s historical district is filled with quaint shops and exquisite eateries that serve both local and international cuisine.
Be sure to try out some delicious taffy from Patsy’s Candy Shop or indulge in some homemade ice cream from the Manitou Sweet Shop.
Don’t miss the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Museum, a collection of reconstructed Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and a museum of native culture.
At the dwellings, you can also learn about the history and culture of the Ute tribe.
Take a hike up to the iconic Manitou Incline – a challenging trail with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain and incredible views at the top.
The Barr Trail, leading up to Pikes Peak, starts in Manitou Springs and is much-loved by hikers and runners for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
The town also hosts the famous Pikes Peak Marathon and Ascent each year.
Manitou Springs is also home to the Cave of the Winds, a historic cave that offers tours and fun family activities.
The town’s vibrant arts scene, embodied by the Manitou Art Center, is a cultural delight.
With its unique attractions and welcoming community, Manitou Springs provides a charming escape in Colorado.
Fruita
Fruita stands out as a unique small town in western Colorado.
Known for its proximity to the Colorado National Monument, Fruita provides an excellent base for exploring this majestic landmark.
Fruita is also popular for outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking trails, and camping.
The town itself is charming with a historic downtown, local shops, and eateries.
Fruita is also a prominent name among mountain biking circles, with some of the best trails located in the nearby 18 Road (North Fruita Desert) trail system.
The annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival celebrates this biking culture with races, exhibitions, and live music.
For those interested in history, the Dinosaur Journey Museum showcases fossils and dinosaur skeletons from the Jurassic period.
The Fruita Fall Festival is another highlight of the year, featuring local foods, handmade crafts, and music.
Not to forget Fruita’s quirkier side, the town is home to Mike the Headless Chicken, a local legend, celebrated with an annual festival.
From its roots in farming and ranching to its contemporary identity as an outdoor hub, Fruita holds a unique charm that sets it apart in Colorado.
Pueblo
Pueblo, also known as the “Steel City,” is a small town with a rich history and culture.
Located on the Arkansas River, Pueblo boasts a beautiful riverwalk area that hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
The town’s historical district features over 20 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the historic Union Depot – now home to the Pueblo Railway Museum.
History buffs will also enjoy a visit to El Pueblo History Museum, showcasing the region’s history and culture through interactive exhibits.
The Sangre de Cristo Arts Center features rotating art exhibits, performances, and events throughout the year.
For outdoor recreation, head to Lake Pueblo State Park for boating, fishing, and camping.
Pueblo is also known for its delicious green chile – try it at one of the many local restaurants or visit during the annual Chile & Frijoles Festival in September.
Canon City
Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Canon City is one of the prettiest small towns with stunning natural surroundings.
One of the main attractions in Canon City is the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – home to one of the world’s highest suspension bridges and an amusement park with thrilling rides.
For a more relaxed experience, take a ride on the scenic Royal Gorge Route Railroad and enjoy the views of the Arkansas River.
Canon City is also home to the Museum of Colorado Prisons, showcasing the history of prisons in Colorado and infamous inmates.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in this small town – from hiking and mountain biking to rafting and rock climbing.
The town’s Main Street offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and breweries for visitors to explore.
Georgetown
Georgetown, a historic mining town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, offers visitors a glimpse into Colorado’s past.
The downtown area of this small town is lined with Victorian-style buildings and boutique shops.
Take a stroll around the town and admire the beautiful architecture or stop for a bite at one of the charming cafes.
For history buffs, Georgetown has several museums showcasing its mining heritage, including the Hamill House Museum and Georgetown Energy Museum.
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a must-do attraction, taking visitors on a scenic train ride through the mountains.
Outdoor activities in Georgetown include fishing, hiking, and camping in the surrounding national forests.
During winter, the town transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
Georgetown is, by far, one of the best small towns in Colorado.
Best Small Town in Colorado is a subjective title, but several towns vie for the honor when you think of charm, history, and unique local attractions.
Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Explore a historic mining town. Soak in the natural hot springs in the small towns in Colorado. Hit the mountain biking trails.
Get ready to experience a mix of old-time charm and thrilling adventure in these charming destinations.
While “best” might be subjective, the character and charm of Colorado’s best small towns make them all special in their own right.
What is your favorite small town in Colorado? Let us know if we missed any fun small towns that should be on this list.