Snow covered Rockies. Towering and rugged mountain peaks. Glittering blue alpine lakes. Meadows full of wildflowers. Highest suspension bridge. Famous ski resorts. Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Breweries and wineries.
Colorado is all at once rustic and trendy. Metropolitan areas such as Denver and Colorado Springs vie for attention with historic mining towns such as Telluride and Leadville high up in the Rocky mountains. The best things to do in Colorado come in spectacular diversity!
Also Read: 20 Best Colorado Day Trips to plan now
There are a thousand excellent ways to explore and experience Colorado. Drive up the breath takingly beautiful San Juan scenic byway. See a mock shoot out in Cripple Creek. Take the train up to Pikes Peak. Admire Denver from the top of the state capitol.
Bungee jump over the Arkansas River at Royal Gorge Bridge. See an elk up close and personal. Hike a frozen waterfall in Rocky Mountain National Park. Celebrate Christmas in Vail.
Colorado is truly blessed: spectacular nature, multitude of unique and one-of-a-kind attractions, powdery soft snow, brilliant yellow aspen trees in fall, towering sand dunes, cascading waterfalls, and Victorian mountain towns.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Colorado to add to your bucket list.
Also Read: 15 Best Colorado Spring Break Destinations
Best Things to do in Colorado
Colorado has over a hundred surprises just waiting to be explored.
The verdant Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs is a sheer delight…
….as is the surreal landscape of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Explore the Wilderness areas of Maroon Bells-Snowmass. Enjoy the amazing rim views at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Go mountaineering at Eagles Nest Wilderness. Enjoy whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River.
Dinosaur tracks, anyone? Plan a visit to Dinosaur National Monument near the Colorado Utah border!
Colorado also has an intriguing food scene.
From the controversial Rocky Mountain oysters and delicacies such as elk steak…
….to the carb loaded Colorado style pizza and famous Chili Verde, a trip to Colorado will delight foodies.
Here are the best things to do in Colorado for families as well as couples.
Discover the Wonders of Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a stunning testament to ancient civilizations.
The park is a land of mesas, canyons, and pueblos; its cliffs are etched with stories that span centuries.
The park is home to over 4,000 archaeological sites, making it the largest archaeological preserve in the United States.
The national park, located in southwest Colorado near Durango, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can marvel at the ruins of the ancient Puebloan people, who flourished in the region thousand years ago.
Cliff Palace, the largest dwelling, is a must-see attraction of the park.
Built in 1200 CE, this complex was constructed from sandstone bricks and mortar, and once housed hundreds of people.
Visitors can tour these dwellings to see kivas and rooms and climb ladders to get up close to the structures.
Other popular attractions include the Balcony House tour, and the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum.
Mesa Verde National Park also has many hiking trails with breathtaking views in southwest Colorado.
Also Read: 17 Best National Parks and Monuments in Colorado
Take in the spectacular views of Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is a natural wonderland that is sure to take your breath away with its stunning mountain scenery and spectacular vistas.
The park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and other adventurers who want to discover the beauty of the great outdoors.
With an elevation of over 14,000 feet, the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains dominate the horizon.
Their peaks have attracted mountaineers and skilled hikers since centuries.
At the lower elevations, you will find crystal-clear alpine lakes, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls creating a dreamy landscape.
For a truly awe-inspiring experience, drive the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in North America, and marvel at the panoramic views from above the tree tops.
On a visit, you are sure to encounter the diverse wildlife that calls this park home, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears.
Try the champagne powder at Steamboat Springs
Located in northwest Colorado, Steamboat Springs is a charming mountain town that has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.
Known for its world-famous hot springs, the town offers many other activities as well.
During winter, Steamboat Springs becomes a whole different world with its signature champagne powder and world-class ski resort.
With 300 inches of annual snowfall, winter sports enthusiasts can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and more.
Come summertime, Steamboat Springs is an outdoor playground for water sports, hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
The town’s western heritage comes alive during the annual rodeo and weekly cattle drives that take place during summers.
In addition to outdoor activities, downtown Steamboat Springs offers a variety of restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs, near the Yampa River, is a must visit spot.
These natural hot springs offer stunning views of the mountain ranges and provide the perfect escape for a soak in its rejuvenating waters.
Strawberry Parks Hot Springs is teh perfect way to relax after hiking or hitting the slopes.
Admire the sheer beauty of Telluride – one of the best things to do in Colorado!
Telluride is one of the prettiest towns in Colorado.
It is located in the San Juan mountains and set smack dab in the middle of Box Canyon!
The historic mining town draws thousands of visitors from all over the world to its magnificent natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities.
The town is situated at an elevation of 8,750 feet and its stunning mountain views, majestic waterfalls, and rugged terrain make it a hiker’s paradise.
In the winter, Telluride offers some of the best skiing in Colorado, with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, 18 lifts, and over 300 inches of annual snowfall.
The town features ski runs for all skill levels, including beginners, intermediate, and advanced, and some cross country skiing for the more adventurous skiers.
Telluride is not only an adventure town but also a cultural center with several music and art festivals throughout the summer, such as the famous Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Wine Festival, and the Telluride Jazz Festival.
You can also take the gondola from Telluride to Mountain Village to enjoy incredible views.
Be mesmerized at the Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is a 1,337-acre park located in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
It has been a National Natural Landmark since 1971 and is a registered National Historic Site in the United States.
The park has incredible natural beauty that is unlike anywhere else on the earth and hence, it should be on your Colorado bucket list.
Its towering sandstone rock formations, majestic peaks, and breathtaking canyons have been sculpted over millions of years by weathering and erosion.
A variety of hiking trails go around the park, starting near the Visitor Center, and lead visitors to the incredible rock formations.
Visitors should not miss the iconic Balanced Rock formation, Siamese Twins, Kissing Camels, and Sentinel Spires which are some of the most photographed locations at Garden of the Gods.
Garden of the Gods is home to various wildlife species such as mule deer, mountain lions, foxes, coyotes, and black bears.
The park is also popular for rock climbing, mountain biking, and jeep tours.
Garden of the Gods in winter looks surreal and ethereal – worth a visit!
Check out Denver’s museums and galleries
Denver, Colorado’s largest city, is a cultural hub that features world-class museums, art galleries, performing arts venues and more.
The Denver Art Museum has an impressive collection of Native American and European artifacts on display.
This museum also houses one of the most extensive collections of modern and contemporary art in the entire region.
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science focuses on natural history and features several interactive exhibits that are exciting for the whole family.
The Children’s Museum of Denver is a great place for kids to explore and learn about science, art, and music.
The Denver Botanic Gardens provide a lush oasis in the middle of the city with its varied range of plants from all over the world.
For an educational experience, visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens or simply stroll through at their own leisure.
The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation.
The museum features interactive exhibits and historic aircrafts from the US Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and Army.
Molly Brown House Museum is a Victorian home dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Denver’s past.
See the Colorado State Capitol Building
The Colorado State Capitol Building is a historic landmark that has been the center of government in Denver.
The building stands at 272 feet tall, making it the sixth tallest capitol building in the United States.
The interior of the building houses four floors and visitors have access to most areas, including the legislature chambers and public galleries.
The beautiful architecture of the building is enhanced with 18-karat gold leaf accents on its dome and several murals depicting historical events in Colorado’s history.
The Capitol Building offers tours to the public, providing an interesting insight into the state’s laws and political process.
Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the grounds which encompass a five-acre park with several species of flowers and trees.
The Colorado State Capitol Building is an iconic landmark that is definitely worth visiting.
Attend a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an outdoor venue located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is one of Colorado’s most iconic attractions.
This amphitheater has been home to some of Denver’s biggest music events, including annual concerts by the likes of U2, Dave Matthews Band, and Metallica.
Apart from hosting concerts, the amphitheater also serves as a beautiful backdrop for yoga sessions, movie screenings, and sunset hikes.
Its natural acoustics make it an ideal spot to hear some of your favorite bands in the open-air.
The skyline of Denver’s cityscape is visible from the upper balconies of the theater and provides breathtaking views of the Colorado mountains and stars.
Visitors to Red Rocks can take a guided tour that explains the history of the amphitheater and get up close with its stunning sandstone monoliths.
There is also a museum that features memorabilia from past musical performances as well as information about geological formations.
Go sand boarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located in the southern part of Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most fascinating places for those who love exploring scenic beauty and adventure.
The park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, which are surrounded by epic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, pristine lakes, diverse wildlife, and lush forests.
You can take a leisurely walk to the base of the dunes or challenge yourself by hiking to the top of the tallest one, called “Star Dune,” which is more than 750 feet above the valley floor.
This is one of the best hiking trails in Colorado.
You can also enjoy sandboarding, sand sledding, and other fun activities on the dunes.
The park has several hiking trails that range from easy to difficult, offering you the opportunity to explore different parts of the park while enjoying the great outdoors.
After a long day of hiking or exploring the sand dunes, you can cool off by swimming or fishing in Medano Creek.
The creek is shallow and gentle, making it safe for kids and adults alike.
Explore the quaint mountain town of Estes Park
Estes Park is a charming mountain town situated on the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park.
It is home to majestic views of meadows, forests, and towering mountains that make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado.
Its picturesque location draws thousands of people every year who come to explore its many outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and even horseback riding.
Estes Park also offers plenty of cultural activities like art galleries, live music venues, and gourmet restaurants.
One of the famous attractions here is The Stanley Hotel – a landmark hotel that was the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel The Shining.
The hotel is known as one of the most haunted spots in Colorado and is a must-see destination for those who are interested in the supernatural.
Visit the Switzerland of America
Ouray, Colorado is known as the “Switzerland of America” due to its stunning mountain scenery and alpine charm.
It offers a variety of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and even ice climbing.
The town is home to several hot springs which are open year-round for visitors who want to relax and soak in the healing waters.
Ouray is also a great place to take some time off for sightseeing as there are plenty of historic buildings, picturesque landscapes, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The town hosts various events throughout the year such as car shows, music festivals, and hot air balloon rides that provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the area.
Drive the amazing Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a 28-mile scenic path leading up to one of the highest drivable peaks in Colorado.
It is located near Evergreen, Colorado.
It is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor activities.
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway starts from Echo Lake Park, which is a perfect spot for a picnic or a family outing.
The Byway winds up through the majestic Rocky Mountains, passing through deep forests, towering peaks, and scenic reservoirs along the way.
You can stop at several pullouts and scenic viewpoints throughout the way, which offer breathtaking views of the mountains, dense forests, and wildlife.
One of the highlights of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is its Summit Lake, which is located at a staggering altitude of 12,836 feet above sea level.
The lake is surrounded by wildflowers, rocks, and hiking trails, which make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
You can also spot a variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots, on your way up to the summit.
The road ends at the summit, and you can step out of your car and take a walk around the peak. The summit offers panoramic views of the Rockies, the plains, and the distant cities.
Walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge
The Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the most fun tourist attractions in Colorado!
This Colorado bridge has been thrilling visitors for over 90 years and is a true marvel of engineering.
It is the highest suspension bridge in America and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Stretching 1,270 feet across the canyon, this bridge is not for the faint-hearted.
The bridge is made of wooden planks with steel cables holding it up.
As you walk across, you can see the Arkansas River rushing 955 feet below through the gaps in the planks and even feel the vibrations of the bridge.
In fact, you’ll be able to see the rapids clearly and even watch the train go through the canyon if you’re lucky!
But the bridge is just the beginning – there’s so much more to explore in this beautiful area.
One of the most popular is the zip line, which is 1,200 feet long and takes you across the Arkansas River at a speed of around 35 miles an hour.
There’s also a scenic gondola ride where you can enjoy the views of the Royal Gorge from above.
Also Read: 17 Best Things to do in Southern Colorado
Spend a day on Grand Lake
Grand Lake is one of Colorado’s largest natural lakes and the perfect spot for a relaxing day spent outdoors.
The lake is surrounded by stunning mountains, lush forests, and dozens of small islands.
You can take a leisurely boat ride around the lake or rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore its many coves and bays.
Fishing is also a popular activity on the lake, as it is home to many different species of fish.
In addition to its beautiful natural setting, Grand Lake also offers plenty of fun activities for the whole family such as hiking trails, museums, shops, and restaurants.
The town of Grand Lake is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the area, as it is home to many historical buildings and charming shops.
Enjoy white water rafting in the Cache La Poudre River Canyon
The Cache La Poudre River Canyon is one of the most popular spots for white water rafting in Colorado.
This stretch of river offers thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and plenty of fun!
You can experience a variety of difficulty levels in this canyon, from gentler class II rapids to the much more challenging class V rapids.
The canyon is surrounded by towering mountains and pristine forests, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing.
Hike the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Located in the western part of Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a stunning national park that offers some of the most breathtaking views in all of Colorado.
The canyon itself was carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years and is one of the deepest gorges in North America.
The walls form an impressive 2,000-foot-high landscape, and the canyon is even deeper than it is wide.
The park has several trails that range from easy to difficult and offer hikers a unique chance to explore the canyon’s landscapes on foot.
One of the most popular trails is the Rim Rock Trail, which offers stunning views of the Gunnison River below as well as the canyon walls.
There are also several off-trail routes and scrambles that take you to more remote areas of the park, giving hikers an even greater sense of exploration.
The park is also home to numerous wildlife species such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, golden eagles, and various reptiles.
Enjoy fall colors on the San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is one of the most beautiful and scenic drives in Colorado.
This 130-mile loop passes through several mountain towns, national forests, and breathtaking landscapes.
The best time to drive this route is during the fall season when all the trees turn into a riot of colors, making it an incredibly picturesque drive.
Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy numerous attractions such as the historic town of Durango, the Million Dollar Highway, and Mesa Verde National Park.
The Skyway also passes through several picturesque mountain towns such as Silverton, Ouray, Ridgway, Telluride, and Cortez.
These towns offer plenty of things to do such as shopping, dining, hiking, and even hot air balloon rides.
Also Read: 20 Best Fall Hikes in Colorado
Admire the rainbow of colors at Paint Mines Interpretive Park
If you are looking for a unique geological and cultural destination in Colorado, consider Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
The park features stunning rock formations and colorful clays that will take your breath away.
Paint Mines Interpretive Park is steeped in cultural history.
The area was once inhabited by Native American tribes who used the colorful clays for decorative purposes and medicinal remedies.
Later, European settlers discovered the area and started mining the clays for industrial purposes, such as porcelain and enamel.
Today, the park is managed by the El Paso County Parks and is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.
One of the most impressive features of the park is the unique rock formations that seem to defy gravity and logic.
The spires, hoodoos, and fins are made of sandstone, shale, and other sedimentary rocks that have been eroded by wind, water, and time.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the formations at their own pace, but be mindful of staying on the designated trails and not damaging the delicate structures.
Another reason to visit Paint Mines Interpretive Park is the colorful clays that give the park its name.
The clays come in a variety of shades such as red, yellow, white, and purple, and are a feast for the eyes.
The clays are also significant to the park’s ecosystem as they support a variety of plant and animal life that has adapted to the unique soil conditions.
Go on an adventure on Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Located amongst the gorgeous landscape of Colorado Springs lies the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, an unparalleled experience.
This iconic railway takes you 14,000 feet upward to the summit of Pikes Peak and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty.
The train itself is an engineering marvel, designed to climb the steep inclines of Pikes Peak through its unique cogwheel system.
The 8.9-mile route gives you ample opportunity to take in the jaw-dropping gorgeous scenery all around you, including steep cliffs, tranquil streams, and lush forests.
As you climb higher and higher, you can take in the stunning panoramic views of Pikes Peak and its surroundings – an incredible experience!
Hike the dramatic Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is a 486-mile long stretch of nature trails that traverses the Rocky Mountains from Denver to Durango.
It is one of the longest and most dramatic hiking paths in the United States, offering incredible views and plenty of adventures for outdoor lovers.
The trail passes through some of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes, including alpine forests, rugged mountains, and deep canyons.
Along the way, you can spot a variety of wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and even bears!
You can choose which section of the trail to hike depending on your skill level and time commitment.
The trail is also perfect for mountain biking as well as horseback riding.
Enjoy hot air ballooning in Boulder
What’s better than admiring the beauty of the Rockies on a romantic hot air balloon ride?
Hot air ballooning in Boulder is an unforgettable experience and offers birds eye views of the Front Range’s stunning scenery.
As you float high up in the sky, you can take in the vast expanse of the Rocky Mountains, forest-covered hillsides, and crystal clear rivers below.
The pilot will also point out various landmarks as you glide through the air, and you can take photos at any time.
Once your hot air balloon ride is over, you can pop a bottle of champagne and watch as the ground crew retrieves your balloon from the sky.
It’s an incredible way to experience the beauty of Boulder, Colorado’s landscape!
Find the prehistoric beasts at Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument is a unique and awe-inspiring destination in Colorado, with its fossilized remains of Late Jurassic Period dinosaurs.
The monument is located along the borders of Colorado and Utah, and it is home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils.
Many species have been discovered here, including Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Diplodocus, Stegosaurus, and more.
Visitors can explore the Quarry Exhibit Hall, where they can view over 1,500 dinosaur bones in situ.
The monument also offers a variety of guided ranger programs that take visitors back in time to explore how life was millions of years ago.
Admire the scenic views at Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two of Colorado’s most iconic peaks, located in the Elk Mountains near Aspen.
The twin peaks stand out among the surrounding landscape with their distinctive reddish hue, also known as “Maroon Color.”
This stunning natural wonder is one of the most photographed spots in the Centennial state and offers unbeatable views of the surrounding scenery.
You can explore the area on foot or by bike, and if you are lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife such as elk, deer, and marmots.
Maroon Bells is also a popular destination for camping and other outdoor activities.
See the Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a charming town in the heart of the Rocky mountains on the banks of the Colorado river.
It is a popular destination for vacationers looking for a relaxing getaway in the midst of breathtaking natural beauty.
Glenwood Springs is renowned for its natural hot springs that are open year-round.
The historic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Pool is a popular attraction in the town, where visitors can unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters while enjoying stunning views of the mountains.
Take a scenic gondola ride up to the top of Iron Mountain, and you’ll arrive at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, a thrilling amusement park perched high above Glenwood Springs.
With exciting rides and attractions, such as the Alpine Coaster, Giant Canyon Swing, and Cave Tours, it’s a great way to spend a day with the family.
Surrounded by national forests and mountain trails, Glenwood Springs is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Hanging Lake Trail, a moderately strenuous hike, is a popular trail that takes visitors through a stunning natural landscape to a turquoise-colored lake.
The town’s location at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers makes it a perfect spot for fly fishing and whitewater rafting as well.
Ride the thrilling Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was built to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains to Durango.
The line stretches for 45 miles, with 26 miles of this being considered the “highline” section, which runs along the steep slopes of the Animas River gorge.
The railroad has played an important role in the history of the area and is a National Historic Landmark. You’ll be able to learn more about this while on the train ride.
The train ride aboard the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is nothing short of spectacular.
As you make your way through the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains, you are treated to one picturesque scene after another.
The train slowly snakes its way through narrow canyons and steep mountain passes.
From stunning waterfalls to towering mountain peaks, you have plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery of the San Juan ranges.
One of the most unique things about the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is that it’s still running on the same tracks that were built in the Gold Rush era.
Some of the trains are more than 90 years old and have been carefully maintained and restored, adding to the storybook experience.
Explore the geological formations at Colorado National Monument
Colorado is home to an incredible natural wonder that you must explore, the Colorado National Monument.
This captivating landmark offers an awe-inspiring vista of red rock canyons, fascinating geological formations, and diverse wildlife scattered across the rugged terrain.
The monument features a 23-mile scenic Rim Rock drive that takes you up close to the landforms, offers a birds eye view of the canyon system, and introduces you to wildlife.
Along the way, you’ll see several viewpoints and trailheads to explore the area.
Make sure you don’t miss the Kissing Couple viewpoint, which is a popular spot for photography, and the Independence Monument viewpoint, which offers a fascinating view of the iconic monument.
The monument is home to a range of diverse wildlife that you’re likely to encounter including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and coyotes.
Colorado National Monument is located just 30 minutes away from Grand Junction in the western part of the state.
Enjoy spring break in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is a charming city located at the base of Pikes Peak in the Rockies.
It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado for its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.
The city is home to several attractions that you must explore during your stay.
Visit Garden of the Gods, Seven Falls, and Manitou Cliff Dwellings to get a taste of Colorado’s unique culture and history.
The city also has several family friendly attractions including the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Go skiing at Winter Park Resort
Tucked away in the heart of the Rocky Mountains lies a small skiing town called Winter Park.
Winter Park is famous for its breathtaking scenery and infamous slopes.
It is a winter wonderland for both seasoned skiers and new learners. A mix of alpine and Nordic skiing trails provide endless adventure.
In downtown, quaint shops and charming restaurants line the streets of the town.
Beyond the skiing, Winter Park offers ice-skating, snowshoeing, and tubing for all ages.
Visitors can warm up inside with a hot cup of cocoa. Or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment at one of the many resorts.
With over 3,000 acres of mountain terrain and unparalleled beauty, Winter Park is truly a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable winter Colorado vacation.
Enjoy Christmas in Vail or Aspen
Vail and Aspen are two of Colorado’s most beloved ski resorts that transform into winter wonderlands during the Christmas season.
The towns host delightful holiday festivities, including ice skating, sleigh rides, caroling, and even visits from Santa himself.
Visitors can explore scenic trails for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains or take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride.
The nearby ski resorts provide plenty of options for winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
When the day is done, you can relax in your hotel by a cozy fire or grab a hot cocoa at one of the many quaint cafés.
Go hunting for trolls in Breckenridge
For a fun day activity that is sure to delight all ages, head to Breckenridge to see the town’s famous toll sculpture.
Isak Heartstone is a huge wooden troll sculpture located in the middle of a popular hiking trail, which has become quite the tourist attraction.
This 15-foot-tall figure was created through a collaboration between local artists and community members who volunteered their time and materials to make it happen.
Be sure to bring your camera for some great photos!
Go underground at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is located in Manitou Springs and offers visitors a unique underground experience.
At the park, you can explore an old limestone cave discovered over 150 years ago and take in the breathtaking views from its various viewing platforms.
On the tour, you can admire the majestic stalactites, stalagmites, and other dramatic rock formations shaped by nature over time.
You can even take a thrilling adventure tour of the cave’s underground passages for an unforgettable experience!
The park also has several outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, zip-lining, and even rappelling!
Take the Coors Brewery tour in Golden
Golden is an iconic city located in the Rocky Mountains that has become a hotspot for craft beer lovers.
The city’s Coors Brewery offers daily tours of its facilities that will provide you with a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
You can learn how Coors’ signature beers are made and taste several samples throughout the tour.
The brewery also has a gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs and beer to take home.
Visit the casinos in Black Hawk
Black Hawk is a historic mining town located in the Rocky Mountains and home to some of Colorado’s best casinos.
Visit the town for an exciting night out with your friends and try your luck at one of its many casinos.
You’ll find dozens of slot machines, table games, and live entertainment throughout the city.
The most popular casinos in Black Hawk include Ameristar, Lady Luck, and Golden Gulch.
Go star gazing at Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock National Monument is an incredible natural landmark located in southwestern Colorado.
The area offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, as well as some of the clearest night skies you’ll ever see.
Enjoy a peaceful evening stargazing and admire the millions of stars that light up the sky.
You can also take a guided tour to learn about the constellations and other interesting facts about astronomy.
Learn about the history of Colorado at The Museum of the Mountain West
The Museum of the Mountain West is located in Montrose, Colorado, and offers a fascinating look into the history of the state.
The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to present day, including Native American artifacts, historic photos, and old tools used by settlers in the area.
Visitors can learn about topics such as cattle ranching during the 1800s and the building of railroads in the region.
The Museum of the Mountain West is a great way to discover Colorado’s unique history up close.
Try some Colorado style pizza….or the famous green chili
Over the years, Colorado has become a foodie destination, with a myriad of flavors and cuisines.
Colorado-style pizza is a unique style of pizza – originally from Colorado and now enjoyed by pizza lovers around the world.
It has a thick crust – which is crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.
You can top it with a variety of meats, vegetables, and cheese.
The pizza sauce is spicy and tangy, making it a perfect combination with the toppings.
Some of the famous pizzerias that serve Colorado-style pizza include Beau Jo’s, Anthony’s Pizza, and Marco’s Coal-Fired Pizzeria.
Another state delicacy is Rocky Mountain oysters, also known as cowboy oysters – they are not oysters at all.
They are actually deep-fried bull testicles, a delicacy that’s surprisingly delicious.
Although the name might make you cringe, these oysters are a popular dish in the Centennial State.
Green chili is another staple dish that you should try when visiting Colorado.
It is a fiery and flavorful stew made with green chile peppers, pork, tomatoes, and spices.
Other popular foods to try include Palisade peaches, bison burgers, elk steaks and craft beers.
Stand in four states at once at Four Corners Monument
The Four Corners Monument is a unique spot in the United States located in the Southwest corner of Colorado.
It marks the only point where four states meet – Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado.
At this site, visitors can stand with one foot in each state at once!
There are many activities to enjoy here, including picnicking, hiking and exploring the area’s history.
The Monument also features a variety of Native American outdoor sculptures and artwork that are worth checking out.
Visit the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo
The Colorado State Fair in Pueblo is a must-visit for everyone.
It combines the excitement of a carnival, the thrill of rodeo shows…
… and the joy of experiencing local agriculture and food.
Each year, the fair draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from all across Colorado and beyond.
From exploring the intricate art and craft exhibits…
….to chowing down on delicious funnel cakes and deep-fried favorites, there’s something for everyone at the Colorado State Fair.
But what really sets this fair apart is its emphasis on celebrating and showcasing the diversity of Colorado’s ranching and farming communities.
Also Read: 13 Best Things to do in Pueblo, Colorado
Take a mine tour in Idaho Springs or Cripple Creek
Looking for an adventure that takes you deep underground?
The mine tours in Idaho Springs or Cripple Creek are a must-see attraction!
Once inside the mine, you’ll step back in time to when miners risked their lives for gold.
With knowledgeable guides leading the way – you can explore dark tunnels and narrow shafts.
You can see mining equipment and learn about tools and techniques used by miners.
You can see some amazing sights, from glittering veins of gold to vast underground caverns filled with incredible rock formations.
You’ll gain a new appreciation for the lives of those who worked in the mine tunnels.
Visit the ghost town of Ashcroft
Ashcroft Ghost Town in Colorado is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the state’s mining past.
Located just two miles outside of Aspen, this abandoned town has breathtaking Alpine views.
It offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like during the Silver Rush of the late 1800s.
The town was once home to over 2,000 people…
…but now stands eerily silent with only a handful of buildings left standing.
The remnants of decaying cabins and saloons offer a fascinating glimpse into the Old West…
…with many buildings retaining their vintage furniture and artifacts.
Visitors can stroll through the deserted streets or trek up to nearby peaks to glimpse the town from above.
As you explore the remains of Ashcroft, you can almost hear the sounds of pickaxes and the clanking of mining carts.
Colorado is simply stunning and spectacular. It is perfect for families, couples, and all kinds of travelers.
The Centennial State is made for road tripping historic towns and exploring national parks.
Follow in the steps of the Pueblo and Ute people, prospectors, and pioneers…
…as you discover all that Colorado has to offer.
Revel in the scenic beauty and the extreme seasonal changes and fall in love with Colorado, just like we did!
What are your favorite things to do in Colorado? Did we miss any Colorado attraction that should be on this list? Let us know below.