Rugged peaks, alpine lakes, stunning forests, and vibrant cities – you name it, Colorado’s got it! While there’s certainly no shortage of gorgeous places to visit in Colorado, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where we come in!
Whether you’re looking to explore some of the state’s hidden gems, relax in a mountain cabin, or hit the town with your besties, we’ve rounded up the top 10 places to visit in Colorado.
We’ve also included a list of fun things to do at each location. From beer tastings in Denver to thrilling whitewater rafting in Silverthorne, your next Colorado adventure starts here!
1. DENVER
Of course, no visit to Colorado is complete without a stop in the Mile High City. Discover the bustling downtown area, where modern skyscrapers coexist with historic landmarks like Union Station and Larimer Square or relax in the Colorado sun at City Park. It’s perfect for urban adventurers!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN DENVER:
Sample Microbrews in RiNo
RiNo, or the River North Art District, is a trendy neighborhood located near the South Platte River. Known for its contemporary art galleries and restaurants, this is also one of the best places in Denver to try craft beer! During this one-of-a-kind tour, you’ll explore this up and coming neighborhood and visit a number of unique breweries and cideries along the way. Not a big beer lover? Check out this Denver Cocktail Tour instead!
Discover the City’s Spooky Side
During the day, Denver is a bustling city with stunning mountain views. But what happens when the sun goes down? Legend has it that these streets are crawling with spirits. Listen to tales from beyond the grave and keep your eyes peeled for apparitions during this hair-raising ghost tours. Look out! There could be a ghost standing right beside you!
Relax in a Beer Spa
There’s something so relaxing about soaking in a warm bath infused with aromatic herbs, hops, and barley. Don’t believe us? Experience it for yourself with these unique beer spa packages! You’ll enjoy your own private room equipped with a cedar hydrotherapy tub, warm wooden deck, and soothing rain shower. Even if you’re not a huge fan of beer, you’ll find yourself slipping into serenity.
Dine on Mile High Favorites
From award-winning pork green chili to fresh empanadas and juicy burgers, Denver is a food-lovers paradise! Taste your way through the Mile High City with these mouthwatering food tours. Following an expert guide, you’ll visit some of the city’s best restaurants and a few hidden gems!
2. BOULDER
Located just northwest of Denver, Boulder is a mountain lover's paradise. Nestled against the jagged Flatirons, Downtown Boulder is full of one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s the perfect balance between urban culture and breathtaking natural surroundings!
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UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN BOULDER:
Learn how to fly a Cessna Airplane
Have you always dreamed of taking the controls and flying your own airplane? Well, now you can! Departing from the Boulder Municipal Airport, this thrilling lesson will put you in the pilot’s seat. A FAA Certified instructor will handle takeoff and landing while introducing you to basic controls and flight maneuvers. Soar over Downtown Boulder, the foothills, and more!
Soar Across the Sky in a Glider
For an entirely different kind of high-flying adventure, don’t miss these scenic glider rides! A small tow plane will take you high into the sky before releasing your glider into the air. Using natural thermals, you’ll float, glide, and soar high above Boulder. Since your glider doesn’t have an engine, you’ll experience the peaceful serenity of a smooth and quiet ride.
Stare up at the Night Sky
Discover the magic of Colorado’s night sky with this fully-guided Astronomy Tour! Beginning at sunset, you’ll watch as the sun slowly fades away and the stars begin to twinkle. With the help of your guide (and a high-powered telescope), you’ll spot planets, constellations, satellites, and more. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a shooting star!
Explore the City on Two Wheels
From paved bikeways to scenic mountain trails, Boulder is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America. Embark on an exciting, 2-wheeled adventure with these guided bike tours! Whether you want to explore the city’s artistic side or zip through spectacular landscapes, these tours will take you
Hike the Flatirons
No trip to Boulder is complete without a visit to the iconic Flatirons! These slanted sandstone formations border the western side of the city and are the perfect place to enjoy the Colorado sun. If you’re an avid hiker, we recommend hiking the two-mile Flatiron Loop Trail. This easy-to-moderate hike takes you through the forest beneath the Flatirons where you can gaze up at these incredible monoliths!
3. COLORADO SPRINGS
The red rocks and towering mountains of Colorado Springs are waiting for you! Located south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a fascinating city filled with history and breathtaking beauty. The iconic Pikes Peak dominates the skyline while red rocks dot the horizon. You have to see it to believe it!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN COLORADO SPRINGS:
Take a Falconry Lesson
For over 4,000 years, people have been using graceful birds of prey to catch small game. And now you can try your hand at this legendary sport in Colorado Springs! With this introductory lesson, you’ll meet a variety of feathered friends and watch in awe as they effortlessly soar through the air. You’ll even get to hold a beautiful, trained hawk and pose for a photo!
Visit Garden of the Gods
Attention hikers, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots! At the Garden of the Gods Park, you’ll walk beneath jaw-dropping red-rock formations including the famous ‘Kissing Camels’ and ‘Balanced Rock’. With miles of trails to explore, it’s the perfect place to enjoy on your own or with a guided tour!
Ride to the Top of Pikes Peak
At over 14,000 feet in elevation, Pikes Peak towers over the City of Colorado Springs. While you can enjoy views of this peak from almost anywhere in the city, the best views are at the top! Take a scenic drive to the summit or ride to the top aboard the historic Cog Railway. No matter how you get to the top, you’ll understand why this mountain helped inspire “America the Beautiful.”
Feed a Giraffe at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
If you love animals, then visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a must-do! Known as the highest zoo in the country, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to a variety of animals including grizzly bears, mountain tapirs, and (you guessed it) reticulated giraffes! Stroll along the zoo’s elevated boardwalk and come eye-to-eye with these incredible African giants. You can even hand-feed them a special treat!
Learn How to Create Stained Glass Art
During this one-of-a-kind class, you’ll create and take home a beautiful glass masterpiece! With the help of an expert instructor, you’ll choose a design, cut out each piece, and solder them together using the copper foil method – the same method that Tiffany & Co. use to make their legendary glass lamps! Your new piece will look stunning hanging in your window and every time you look at it, you'll remember the phenomenal time you had while visiting Colorado Springs!
4. MORRISON
On the surface, Morrison may seem like nothing more than a quiet town nestled in the Colorado foothills. However, this little town packs a punch! It’s home to a legendary music venue, prehistoric fossils, gorgeous roadways, and so much more!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN MORRISON:
Go to a Concert at Red Rocks
We think it’s safe to say that Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most epic concert venues in the world. Built between massive, red-rock formations, this natural amphitheater is absolutely stunning, and there’s nothing more magical than listening to your favorite band under the stars. Don’t have time for a concert? Check out this daytime tour instead!
Take a Road Trip…in a Supercar!
While there’s no shortage of scenic drives in Colorado, some of the roads around Morrison are exceptionally beautiful. And the best part? You can explore them from the seat of a supercar! With this amazing road trip adventure, you’ll get behind the wheel of a Lamborghini Huracan, Ferrari 488 GTB, Porsche 911 GT3, or Corvette Stingray C8. Cruise the open road and feel like a celebrity as you hug every turn and roar through the landscape!
Hunt for Fossils
Millions of years ago, the hills of Morrison were a very different place. Lush foliage covered the landscape and dinosaurs roamed the earth. Today, It’s a world-famous destination for dino lovers and scientists alike. Channel your inner paleontologist and search the iconic Dinosaur Ridge for fossils. You’ll even get to see real dinosaur footprints – dating back over 100 million years!
5. SILVERTHORNE
If you’re looking to experience Colorado’s alpine splendor, don’t miss the iconic town of Silverthorne! Located along highway I-70, this mountain town offers outdoor activities all year long. Hit the ski slopes, walk beneath golden aspen trees, or explore fields of wildflowers.
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN SILVERTHORNE:
Hike a Legendary 14er
For all of the avid hikers out there, there’s no greater feat than conquering a Colorado 14er. And luckily for you, Silverthorne and Summit County are chock full of gorgeous peaks! Not sure where to start? With this guided adventure, you’ll hike to the summit of a legendary mountain peak – no technical gear required! You won’t believe your eyes as you ascend the mountain, and with each step, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views.
Strap on a Pair of Snowshoes
Sure, hiking in the summertime has its perks, but for us, there’s something so incredibly peaceful about snowshoeing through a winter wonderland. Kick up some powder and discover the beauty of Silverthorne’s winters on a guided snowshoe tour! Following your guide, you’ll trek through quiet canyons, frosty forests, across sparkling hilltops, and so much more.
Learn how to Rock Climb
Where there’s mountains, there’s rocks! If you’ve always wanted to try rock climbing, now’s your chance. This amazing, half-day adventure will take you to some of Summit County’s best rock walls. With help from an expert instructor, you’ll enjoy a safe climbing experience while learning how to scale up spectacular walls. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of making it to the top!
Try Your Hand at Ice Climbing
Who says you can’t climb in the winter? Not us! Don your winter jacket and experience a thrilling day of ice climbing! An expert guide will equip you with everything you need including ice axes, crampons, and a helmet. As you slowly work your way up massive, frozen walls, your guide will share expert tips and tricks to help you make it all the way to the top.
Conquer Whitewater Rapids
Imagine crashing through wave after wave of whitewater as you navigate the Colorado River. Sound thrilling? We think so too! Silverthorne, CO is home to some of the state’s best rafting and with this guided trip, you can conquer class I-II rapids. For the ultimate adventure, we highly recommend this overnight trip! Spend a night out in nature and bask in the beauty of lush meadows, dense forests, mountains, and more.
6. LEADVILLE
With a staggering 10,152-foot elevation, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America. The town’s mountainous terrain is the perfect backdrop for an adventure! Zip through the air on a zipline, experience the thrill of snowmobiling, or explore this quaint town behind a camera lens.
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN LEADVILLE:
Go Ziplining
Ready, set, zip! Sure, you can zipline just about anywhere, but where else in the world can you zipline above 11,000 feet in elevation? In Leadville, you can breathe in the fresh mountain air as you fly down 5, double-cabled lines. You’ll even get to experience the “honeymooner,” a side-by-side zip that allows you to hold hands with your adventurous partner!
Ride a Historic Train
All aboard the Leadville Railroad! During this action-packed adventure, you’ll get to experience two exciting activities: a 2-hour train ride through the Rockies and a high-flying zipline tour. Admire amazing views of the Continental Divide while this historic train climbs 1,000 feet above the valley floor. Then, zip back down the mountain along 5, double-cabled ziplines!
Snowmobile Through a Winter Wonderland
You’ve never experienced sightseeing quite like this! This thrilling winter adventure will take you deep in the Rocky Mountains aboard a top of the line Polaris snowmobile. Following a certified guide, you’ll explore over 25 miles of stunning, groomed trails. Admire the icy peaks of Mount Massive and Mount Elbert as you coast across snow-covered valleys. This unique experience is great for families, single riders, or couples who want to ride together on the same snowmobile!
Go on a Photo Safari
It’s no secret that Leadville is a visually stunning place to visit in Colorado. Now imagine exploring this mountain paradise with a professional photographer! Join local photographer, Jon Sheppard, for an unforgettable photo safari through Leadville, along the Arkansas River, and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced photographer, you’ll take home an incredible collection of photos that you can cherish for years to come (or share on social media!)
7. ESTES PARK
Located just outside the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is everything a Colorado mountain town should be. Small shops and restaurants line the streets while the snowy Rockies tower in the distance. It’s also a great spot to search for wildlife including elk, deer, moose, and bighorn sheep!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN ESTES PARK:
Go on a Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park
You can’t visit Estes Park and not go to Rocky Mountain National Park! RMNP was established in 1915 and is one of the country’s most visited parks – and for good reason! Rugged mountains tower into the sky while moose and elk frequent the park’s pristine alpine lakes and meadows. Discover the very best of RMNP on a guided tour!
Watch a Taffy Pulling Machine
This may seem like an odd activity, but trust us, it’s completely mesmerizing! Located on Elkhorn Avenue (the main stretch of Downtown Estes,) The Taffy Shop has been creating colorful saltwater taffys since 1935. Watch in awe as their taffy pullers effortlessly stretch the taffy like a giant elastic band. They even have a live taffy cam that you can watch from home!
Take a Hike
With hundreds of miles of trails, Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park offer some of the best hiking in Colorado. Trek to the top of the iconic Longs Peak or keep it simple with a relaxing walk around Lake Estes. Of course, you don’t have to set out on the trail alone. If you’re looking to experience these trails alongside an expert and local guide, don’t miss this unforgettable Rocky Mountain Hiking Tour!
Drive Trail Ridge Road
Experience life at the top of a mountain! Built in 1932, the scenic Trail Ridge Road is often called a “highway to the sky” – a very fitting name if you ask us! Beginning in a ponderosa pine forest, you’ll quickly climb over 4,000-feet in elevation. As you wind your way up and up, you won’t believe your eyes as you’re suddenly surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. At the top, you’ll be transported into a windswept alpine world. Take a moment to walk around, listen for yellow-bellied marmots, or visit the Trail Ridge Store.
Watch the Annual Elk Rut
Every fall, the hills of Estes come alive with the haunting sounds of bugling elk. During the annual elk rut (or mating season,) massive bull elk show off their antlers and compete for females. It’s truly a sight to behold! For some of the best viewing, check out Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the drama in town at the Estes Park Golf Course or along the shores of Lake Estes.
8. GRAND JUNCTION
The breathtaking landscapes of Grand Junction are calling your name! From jaw-dropping trails to lush wineries and incredible local flavors, Grand Junction has something for everyone.
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN GRAND JUNCTION:
Explore a Local Winery
Grand Junction’s hot summer days and cool nights are perfect for growing grapes. And where there’s grapes, there’s delicious wines! In fact, more than 30 wineries and tasting rooms call these Western mountains home. From oaky Chardonnays to deep-red Merlots, you’ll find your new favorite wine in Grand Junction!
Peaches, peaches, and oh yeah…more peaches!
Beyond grapes, Grand Junction is also the backdrop for some of Colorado’s best tasting produce. From cherries and pears to apples and apricots – you name it, Grand Junction’s got it! However, if you’re a fruit fan, visiting during peach season (August) is an absolute must. Orchards overflow with giant peaches that are ripe, sweet, and unbelievably juicy!
Visit Colorado National Monument
One of the crown jewels of Grand Junction is the majestic Colorado National Monument. Towering red rock cliffs, deep canyons, and winding trails offer endless adventures. Plus, this outdoor paradise is often referred to as “The National Park You’ve Never Heard Of.” The monument definitely lives up to its nickname as trails are secluded and the landscapes untouched.
9. CRESTED BUTTE
Tucked away in the heart of the Rockies, Crested Butte is a postcard-perfect town that effortlessly blends outdoor adventure with artistic flair. Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” Crested Butte dazzles visitors with vibrant wildflower displays in the summer months. In the fall, these hills take on a whole different kind of hue. You have to see it to believe it!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN CRESTED BUTTE:
Attend the Annual Wildflower Festival
During the summer months, Crested Butte transforms into a wildflower wonderland. Lush meadows come alive with purple lupines, columbines, and vibrant red paintbrushes. Take a hike and explore these colorful fields on foot or attend the annual wildflower festival! Occurring in mid-July, this 10-day festival celebrates wildflowers while promoting preservation.
Check Out the Fall Colors
For a different kind of nature show, don’t miss Crested Butte’s legendary fall colors! As the wildflowers begin to disappear, the town’s golden aspens come to life. Take a hike and walk beneath endless hues of yellow or drive the iconic Kebler Pass. This incredible pass is home to one of the largest aspen groves in the world. Trust us, it’s 100% worth the drive!
Explore the Town’s Creative District
Beyond its natural beauty, Crested Butte also boasts a vibrant art scene. Take a leisurely stroll along Elk Avenue, the town's main street, and step inside one-of-a-kind art galleries. From captivating paintings and sculptures to stunning photographs, you’ll feel inspired as you gaze at some of the best art in Colorado!
10. ALAMOSA
Alamosa? Where’s that? While you may have never heard of it, Alamosa absolutely deserves a spot on our list of Top 10 Places to Visit in Colorado. It’s located near the state’s southern border, Great Sand Dunes National Park, the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, and so much more.
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN ALAMOSA:
Watch the Annual Sandhill Crane Migration
Even if you’re not much of a birder, the Sandhill Crane Migration is something you’ll never forget! Standing at over 3-feet tall, these massive birds migrate through Alamosa and the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge by the thousands. Every spring, you can watch the cranes as they fly across the sky, filling the air with their loud, trumpeting calls. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the cranes ‘dancing’ on the ground!
Climb Up a Massive Sand Dune
Did you know that the tallest sand dunes in North America are in Colorado? Located just 30 minutes northeast of Alamosa, the Great Sand Dunes are truly jaw-dropping. Nestled against the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the dunes offer 30 square miles of adventure! Climb to the top of the tallest dune or experience the thrill of running down the steepest hill you can find!
Swim in a Spring-Fed Pool
After a busy day of exploring, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip in a perfectly warm, spring-fed pool. Located in the middle of the San Luis Valley, Sand Dunes Recreation is a true oasis. Underground hot springs feed the location’s many pools and temperatures range from 98 degrees to a 107-degree therapy pool. Swim with your loved ones in a large 50 x 100-foot pool or enjoy some alone time in the adults-only greenhouse.
From lush vineyards and quaint mountain towns, to bustling cities and everything in between, there’s so many incredible places to visit in Colorado. After reading our top 10 list, we hope you feel inspired to explore this beautiful state. For even more unique things to do, don’t miss these unforgettable Colorado adventures.
What are you waiting for? Grab your adventure buddy and explore the Centennial State today!
