Colorado is a state that truly ignites the spirit of exploration. With its dramatic Rocky Mountain peaks, vast plains, unique geological formations, and vibrant cities, there’s an incredible diversity of experiences waiting. If you’re wondering precisely what is there to do in Colorado, prepare to discover a destination that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure, rich history, fascinating culture, and burgeoning culinary scenes. From scaling towering “14ers” to exploring ancient cliff dwellings, soaking in natural hot springs, or delving into bustling urban centers, Colorado offers a dynamic canvas for unforgettable journeys.
Conquer the Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
Millions flock to Rocky Mountain National Park annually, drawn by its stunning alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and over 350 miles of hiking trails suitable for every level. Beginners can enjoy gentle strolls around Lily Lake, Bear Lake, or Lake Irene. For those seeking a moderate challenge, the 3.6-mile Emerald Lake trail offers rewarding views with a steady elevation gain. Experienced hikers often set their sights on Longs Peak, a formidable “14er” (peak over 14,000 feet) demanding an early start and significant preparation.
Beyond hiking, the park boasts the iconic Trail Ridge Road, often called “Highway to the Sky.” Reaching over 12,000 feet, this continuous paved road offers unparalleled panoramic vistas across the Continental Divide. While well-maintained, its winding turns and sheer drops are not for the faint of heart. Remember that timed-entry reservations are often required during peak season (May-October), and park entry always requires a vehicle pass.
The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is highly recommended for its dramatic scenery.
Discover the Mile High City: Denver
Denver, Colorado’s capital, is a dynamic hub blending urban sophistication with its rugged mountain backdrop. Known as the Mile High City, it offers a wealth of museums like the Denver Art Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art, beautiful green spaces such as City Park with mountain views, and unique attractions like Meow Wolf: Convergence Station. You can easily spend days exploring its diverse neighborhoods.
The city’s culinary and nightlife scenes thrive, especially in areas like Larimer Square and Five Points, known for breweries, bars, live music, and street art. Consider booking a colorado vacation packages for families that might include a stop in Denver to experience its family-friendly attractions and vibrant atmosphere. Denver also hosts notable events like Denver Arts Week and the Denver Film Festival, showcasing its creative energy. From upscale hotels to more budget-friendly alternatives, Denver provides ample lodging options.
For a memorable dining experience, Barcelona Wine Bar offers fantastic tapas, while Williams & Graham provides a unique speakeasy entry.
Sandboard or Sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Think Colorado is all mountains? Think again! Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, offering an unexpected yet thrilling adventure. While traditional surfing is out, sandboarding or sand sledding down these massive dunes provides a unique thrill.
Note that equipment isn’t available inside the park; you’ll need to rent specialized boards or sleds from shops in the nearby San Luis Valley. The dunes themselves are easily accessible from the main parking area. Beyond the dunes, the park offers hiking and seasonal fun in Medano Creek. It’s also recognized as one of the best spots for camping in Colorado.
Remember to pack appropriate footwear, as the sand can become extremely hot, especially during summer.
Check into the Famous Stanley Hotel
Located near Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, The Stanley Hotel is renowned not just for its luxury but its spooky reputation, having inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.” The hotel leans into its haunted lore, offering popular tours like The Shining Tour. It also hosts concerts and themed events throughout the year.
Despite its ghoulish ties, The Stanley Hotel is a top-rated accommodation offering premium suites, spa services, guided outdoor activities, and excellent dining. Estes Park itself provides many attractions, from horseback riding to exploring the free Estes Park Museum.
Visit Estes Park in the autumn to experience the unique sound of elk bugling during mating season.
Explore the Majestic Garden of the Gods
Just northwest of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods lives up to its divine name with towering red rock formations creating a truly surreal landscape. This park is a haven for hikers, with trails ranging from easy paved paths like the Central Garden Trail to more challenging routes like the Palmer Trail.
If you prefer a guided experience, the park offers various tours, including popular Jeep excursions and historical trolley tours. The unique geology makes for stunning photography opportunities from virtually any angle.
After exploring, consider dining at Pizzeria Rustica in Old Colorado City for delicious pizza and gelato, a great way to answer “what to eat colorado springs”.
Ascend the Legendary Pikes Peak
Immortalized in “America the Beautiful,” Pikes Peak is a magnificent 14er near Colorado Springs. There are several ways to reach its summit at 14,115 feet. Driving the Pikes Peak Highway is the most accessible method, offering numerous scenic pull-offs (reservations required). The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway provides a comfortable and scenic ascent, delivering passengers directly to the Summit Visitor Center. Tickets often sell out in advance, especially in summer.
For the truly ambitious, hiking the Barr Trail (23.2 miles round trip) or the Crags Campground route (around 13 miles) offers a grueling but rewarding challenge. Whichever way you ascend, the panoramic views from the top are breathtaking.
Be mindful of afternoon thunderstorms in summer; if hiking, plan to descend by noon to avoid lightning danger. For a strenuous hike that’s not a 14er, the nearby Manitou Incline (2,744 steps) is a popular challenge.
Embrace the Charm of Boulder
Located a short drive northwest of Denver, Boulder captures a charming small-town vibe coupled with youthful energy from the university. The pedestrian Pearl Street Mall is a highlight, featuring unique shops, cafes, and street performers. The city boasts a vibrant food and brewery scene.
Popular eateries include The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for a cultural experience, and The Sink for a casual meal. The Boulder Farmers Market is a summer favorite. Excellent lodging options like the St Julien Hotel & Spa and Hotel Boulderado offer convenient access to downtown.
Hiking the iconic Flatirons is a must-do, with various trails starting near the Chautauqua Trailhead. For a less crowded hike, try the Walker Ranch Loop.
Step Back in Time at Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park in southwestern Colorado offers a unique blend of natural beauty and profound history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the remarkable cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans centuries ago. Visiting these sites provides an incredible glimpse into an ancient civilization.
Cliff Palace, North America’s largest cliff dwelling, featuring 150 rooms and ceremonial kivas, is a highlight and accessible only via guided tours. The park also has numerous hiking trails, including the Point Lookout Trail with sweeping views and the Petroglyph Point Trail showcasing ancient rock art. Mesa Verde holds deep significance for 26 associated Native American tribes.
Hit the Slopes in Aspen
Aspen is a world-renowned ski destination situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Aspen Snowmass is one of the largest and most celebrated ski resorts in the country, offering over 5,300 acres of diverse terrain spread across four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. While famous for challenging runs, there are areas and lessons available for beginners.
Beyond skiing, Aspen’s après-ski scene is legendary, with upscale lounges, taverns, and restaurants. The town boasts luxurious hotels in the area like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, providing convenient access to the slopes and town amenities. Planning a ski trip? ski trip packages colorado often feature destinations like Aspen, offering bundled deals for a hassle-free experience.
Catch a Performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is arguably one of the most iconic concert venues on the planet. Carved into the striking red rock formations near Denver, its natural acoustics are legendary. Experiencing a live performance here between April and November is unforgettable.
Even without a concert, Red Rocks is worth visiting during the day. Explore the hiking trails around the park, like the Trading Post Trail or the Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Loop. The venue also hosts “Film on the Rocks” in the summer and morning “Yoga on the Rocks.”
Nearby Mount Falcon Park also offers beautiful hiking, including the popular Turkey Trot Trail.
Relax in the Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
Nicknamed “Colorado’s Spa in the Mountains,” Glenwood Springs is famous for its natural mineral hot springs. The town features three main thermal attractions. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, suitable for swimming and soaking. Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers a more intimate experience with 27 smaller soaking pools connected by heated walkways (reservations recommended).
For a truly unique experience, the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is one of the few natural vapor caves in North America, offering therapeutic steam inhalation. Soaking in these warm waters is a perfect way to relax after exploring the surrounding mountain landscapes.
Other attractions near Glenwood Springs include Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and Hanging Lake.
Embark on a Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Colorado’s rivers, particularly the Arkansas River, offer thrilling whitewater rafting experiences for all skill levels. If you’re new to rafting or traveling with family, easy routes like Lower Browns Canyon or Little Gore Canyon provide gentle rapids and stunning mountain scenery.
For adrenaline junkies, the Royal Gorge trip delivers intense rapids, steep drops, and constant excitement. Numerous outfitters across the state offer guided rafting tours, making it easy to find an adventure that suits your group. Whitewater rafting is a quintessential answer to what is there to do in Colorado for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience the Historic Charm of Telluride
Once a booming mining town, Telluride in southwestern Colorado retains its captivating Wild West ambiance, framed by the dramatic San Juan Mountains. The charming main street is lined with unique shops and restaurants. Telluride Ski Resort offers excellent skiing in winter.
The 12-minute free gondola provides a scenic ride between the town and the mountain village, offering stunning views. While winter is popular, Telluride shines in spring, summer, and fall with abundant outdoor activities and a thriving arts scene, hosting renowned festivals for film, jazz, and bluegrass.
Drive the Scenic Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway, a section of U.S. Route 550 between Ouray and Silverton, lives up to its name with absolutely breathtaking views. Starting in Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” the 25-mile stretch winds dramatically through the San Juan Mountains.
While stunning, the drive is not for the faint of heart, featuring sheer drops and winding turns, sometimes without guardrails. It requires focus and is best tackled during good weather conditions, avoiding ice or snow. The vistas of canyons and peaks are truly spectacular.
Relax by Grand Lake
As Colorado’s largest natural lake, Grand Lake is a popular spot for water activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. Located near the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, it offers beautiful mountain reflections on its surface.
The surrounding town of Grand Lake is quaint, with cafes, restaurants, and shops. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy playground for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.
Witness the Drama of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park features incredibly steep, narrow canyons carved by the Gunnison River. The dark, jagged cliffs create dramatic and awe-inspiring views. Due to the extreme topography, hiking into the canyon is very challenging.
Most visitors explore via the rim drives. The South Rim is more developed, offering 12 overlooks and several hiking trails along the rim. The North Rim is more primitive but also provides stunning vistas from five overlooks. The park offers a concentrated dose of dramatic scenery.
Consider visiting the South Rim at sunset for particularly spectacular views.
Ride the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Step aboard a piece of history on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This steam-powered train travels through the rugged San Juan Mountains on a route originally built for mining in the 1880s.
The scenic journey from Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton takes about 3.5 hours each way, offering stunning views as it winds through Cascade Canyon. Passengers have time to explore Silverton before the return trip, making it a full-day excursion that captures the spirit of the Old West.
Enjoy Mountain Life in Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a popular and easily accessible mountain town from Denver, known for its fantastic ski resort with extensive trails and terrain parks. A free gondola connects the downtown area to the ski mountain base, offering mountain views even if you’re not skiing.
Downtown Breckenridge is vibrant, featuring shops, restaurants, breweries, and an arts district. The surrounding area provides numerous hiking and biking trails like the easy Sawmill Reservoir Trail or the more challenging Spruce Creek Loop. Breckenridge is a prime example of what is there to do in Colorado for both winter sports and year-round mountain town charm.
For a romantic dinner, Hearthstone Restaurant is highly recommended.
Explore Colorado’s Wine Country
While Colorado is famous for craft beer, the western part of the state, near Grand Junction and Palisade, is a growing wine region. The unique high-altitude climate creates ideal conditions for vineyards.
You can tour wineries and tasting rooms like Carlson Vineyards, Varaison Vineyards, and Peach Street Distillers. Exploring by e-bike is a popular and fun way to visit multiple locations. Palisade is also renowned for its peaches; farm tours add another delicious layer to the visit. Consider planning a trip to colorado focused on this lesser-known but delightful region.
Staying at the Wine Country Inn in Palisade offers a lovely retreat and complimentary wine tastings.
Indulge in Luxury and Adventure in Vail
Vail is synonymous with world-class skiing, but it also offers luxurious experiences beyond the slopes. The town boasts high-end shopping, beautiful gardens like the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and refined dining options.
Vail’s hotels often feature extensive spa facilities, perfect for relaxation. The European-inspired Sonnenalp Hotel is known for its spa, while the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail offers lavish accommodations with mountain views. Whether seeking outdoor thrills or pampered relaxation, Vail delivers.
Dare to Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge
Near Cañon City, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is home to the highest suspension bridge in the United States, soaring 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience, whether on foot or via the Aerial Gondola.
The park offers activities for all levels of bravery, from a kids’ playland to extreme thrills like the Cloudscraper Zip Line and the Royal Rush Skycoaster. For adventurers asking what is there to do in Colorado that involves heights, this is a top contender.
Visiting during the offseason can help avoid the largest crowds.
Enjoy Family Fun in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs in northwestern Colorado is another excellent mountain town known for its ski resort and hot springs. The ski mountain offers a wide variety of trails and terrain parks. Old Town Hot Springs downtown features soaking pools and seasonal waterslides, making it great for families.
Beyond skiing and hot springs, Steamboat offers year-round activities like cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating, hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing. Scenic gondola rides provide views without requiring physical exertion.
The Sheraton Steamboat Resort is often recommended for its modern amenities and views.
Go Leaf Peeping in the Fall
Colorado’s fall foliage is spectacular, particularly the golden aspens. The season typically runs from September to mid-October, depending on weather. Destinations like Kenosha Pass near Denver are popular, but can be crowded.
For a more immersive experience, Kebler Pass near Crested Butte boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves. Hiking or driving through these vibrant landscapes is a quintessential Colorado experience in autumn. Knowing what to see in colorado state often involves timing your visit with seasonal wonders like the fall colors.
While in the area, explore the charming town of Crested Butte and try the pizza and “Crack Fries” at The Secret Stash.
Drive the Highest Road in North America
The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, leading to the summit of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans), is the highest paved road in North America. Starting in Idaho Springs, it ascends over 7,000 feet in 28 miles to the 14,130-foot peak, offering unparalleled alpine views.
Keep an eye out for wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep. The road is typically open only from Memorial Day through Labor Day due to winter weather, and reservations are required. The challenging hike to the summit is also a popular 14er climb.
Experience Small-Town Charm in Salida
Visiting Colorado’s small towns offers a glimpse into the state’s heritage and local life. Salida, located south of Denver, is a prime example, recognized as Colorado’s largest national historic district and its first Certified Creative District.
Walking down F Street feels like stepping back in time, with preserved buildings and classic shops. The Arkansas River runs by the end of the street, adjacent to Riverside Park, a perfect spot for relaxing, picnicking, or enjoying the river. Salida embodies quaint Colorado charm.
Visit Bishop Castle: A Quirky Masterpiece
For a truly unique adventure, journey to Bishop Castle in southern Colorado. This incredible, three-story stone castle was built single-handedly over decades by Jim Bishop, who sadly passed away in 2024 but envisioned it remaining free for the public.
Visiting allows you to explore the soaring towers, traverse bridges, and wander through rooms like the Grand Ballroom. With its intricate details and fantastical elements, including a “Fire-Breathing Dragon,” Bishop Castle feels like something out of a fairy tale and is a testament to individual dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popular activities to consider when deciding what is there to do in Colorado throughout the year.
What are popular winter activities in Colorado besides skiing?
Beyond the extensive skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Colorado offers a range of winter experiences:
- Dog-sledding tours
- Snow tubing at parks like Frisco Adventure Park
- Sleigh ride dinners (popular in areas like Steamboat Springs)
- Attending events like the International Snow Sculpture Championships in Breckenridge
- Riding the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton during the holidays
- Visiting the Denver Christkindlmarket
- Relaxing in unique spots like the Oakwell Beer Spa
What are popular summer activities in Colorado?
Colorado is a summer paradise for outdoor adventures and cultural events:
- Rock climbing in areas like Eldorado Canyon State Park
- Thrill-seeking on zip lines across scenic landscapes
- Riding alpine slides, such as the longest in the state at Winter Park
- Seeing the famously picturesque Maroon Bells near Aspen
- Touring caves at places like Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
- Hiking and exploring geological sites like Dinosaur National Monument or the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park
- Experiencing a via ferrata in Ouray or Telluride
If hiking isn’t your focus, there’s still plenty to enjoy:
- Attending cultural events like the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
- Taking a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Rockies
- Catching a baseball game at Coors Field in Denver
- Visiting the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo
- Exploring historic ghost towns like St. Elmo or Independence
- Dressing up for the Colorado Renaissance Faire
In conclusion, figuring out what is there to do in Colorado isn’t about finding just one thing, but choosing from a seemingly endless list of adventures, cultural explorations, historical journeys, and relaxing getaways. From the highest peaks to the deepest canyons and vibrant city streets, Colorado promises a diverse and unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.