As a traveler who seeks to truly live the destinations I visit, few places capture the spirit of adventure, history, and breathtaking beauty quite like Colorado. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to ancient cliff dwellings and vibrant city scenes, the sheer diversity of what to see in Colorado is astounding.
This isn’t just a list of sights; it’s an invitation to explore landscapes that inspire awe, delve into rich cultural tapestries, and find experiences that resonate long after you’ve left. Get ready to discover the must-visit spots that define the Centennial State. When planning your journey and considering what to see in colorado state, remember that this state offers a palette of experiences as varied as its geography.
Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park’s flat lake trails – such as the Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake and Lake Irene trails – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 3.6-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 771 feet of elevation gain from Bear Lake. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.
Don’t miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west. The National Park Service touts it as the country’s highest paved road that’s continuous, as it connects communities, unlike the up-and-down Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, but that doesn’t mean it’s not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.
Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed-entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that overnight backpackers must obtain a wilderness permit.
The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.
Denver
The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants and historical sites. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you’re visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is Meow Wolf: Convergence Station.
The many unique tour offerings, including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around. If you’re wondering what to eat in denver colorado, rest assured that the city’s culinary scene is booming with options ranging from classic American diners to innovative global cuisine.
When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find top breweries and bars like Great Divide Brewing Company. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado’s capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives.
In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week’s most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.
In terms of food and drink, you can’t go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you’re a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase.
Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
While you won’t find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn’t mean you can’t try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won’t work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you’ll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance to the park, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also one of the best spots for camping in Colorado.
Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.
Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel
An inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America. The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie. You’ll also find plenty of exciting events at the hotel such as concerts and themed balls.
Despite its sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It features premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There’s plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.
Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.
Garden of the Gods
There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods, located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs. Hiking is especially popular, and highly recommended routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.
Guided tours of Garden of the Gods are another way to explore. Jeep tours are especially popular, and options include a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie’s Queens Canyon and a two-hour excursion that includes traversing roads above Cheyenne Canyon and viewing the picturesque Helen Hunt Falls. For a shorter adventure, step back in time with a 35- to 45-minute trolley tour, offered hourly. These formations offer a truly unique perspective on what to see in Colorado, blending geological wonder with accessible outdoor activity.
After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.
Summit Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, a 14er that sits approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including “America the Beautiful.” You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).
Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery and grab a bite to eat at the Summit Visitor Center – sitting at 14,155 feet in elevation – before boarding the train back down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.
The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the 23.2-mile Barr Trail. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at around 13 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area.
Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you’re hiking, make sure you’re descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning. If you’re wanting to get your heart pumping on something a little easier than a 14er (but still plenty difficult), the nearby Manitou Incline might be a better option for you. This 2,744-stair hike sees approximately 250,000 visitors a year.
Boulder
Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 30 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction, as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You’ll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.
Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don’t forget to grab a drink at one of the city’s many breweries in between meals. If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado.
While in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you’re not in the mood to exercise. Boulder offers a perfect mix of urban culture and natural beauty, making it a key part of what to see in Colorado for many travelers.
A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, take a 45-minute tour of the Celestial Seasonings factory; free tea samplings are included.
Mesa Verde National Park
It’s not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until leaving their homes in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes. Exploring these sites is a profound historical experience and crucial for understanding what to see in Colorado beyond its natural wonders.
During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – North America’s largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which features sweeping views of the area. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.7-mile loop) is also popular for its petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.
Ski in Aspen
Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country’s largest ski resorts, one of Colorado’s top ski destinations and one of Aspen’s most popular attractions. The resort offers more than 5,300 acres of skiable terrain and 46 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons. For those dreaming of hitting the slopes, exploring various ski trip packages colorado offers can make planning easier and more affordable.
Even if you’re not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You’ll find skiers flocking to the town’s lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.
Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue’s acoustics, saying it’s one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when this year’s artists are performing. Checking for events in colorado at iconic venues like Red Rocks is a must when planning your visit.
Even if you can’t make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.6 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Loop (3.2 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents popular movie events (Film on the Rocks) and morning yoga sessions (Yoga on the Rocks).
You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.
Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs
The small town of Glenwood Springs, nicknamed “Colorado’s Spa in the Mountains,” is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town’s fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn’t require reservations.
The second option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 27 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance.
The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is the third main thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it’s one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.
Other top attractions near Glenwood Springs include Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Hanging Lake and Rifle Falls State Park.
Go whitewater rafting
The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.
Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip through Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. Check out U.S. News’ roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip. Experiencing the thrill of the rapids is a prime example of the adventure you can find when exploring what to see in Colorado.
Telluride
A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won’t see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride. The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The 12-minute free gondola is also a great activity, as it’ll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.
While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history. When you’re looking for unique cultural events in colorado set against a stunning mountain backdrop, Telluride’s festival scene is hard to beat.
Drive the Million Dollar Highway
There are several theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it’s certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that’s known as the “Switzerland of America” thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.
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The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you’re scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.
Grand Lake
Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level.
The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn’t have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you’re driving, you can see it all in a day – though there’s a good chance it’ll take a long drive to get there, as it’s located about 260 miles from Denver.
When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.
Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don’t offer much in the way of shade. Also, be sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views. Visiting this park is a profound experience for anyone exploring the raw, powerful natural what to see in Colorado offers.
Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.
The train ride from Durango to Silverton takes 3.5 hours, and passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the 3.5-hour train ride back. You’ll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling. This unique historical and scenic journey is a highlight among what to see in Colorado for those who love history and majestic landscapes.
Breckenridge
If you’re looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don’t plan on hitting the slopes.
Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, such as the highly rated Sawmill Reservoir Trail, which is an easy 1.3 miles, as well as the 4.3-mile Spruce Creek Loop.
A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can’t be beat. Give the lamb a try; it’s spectacular!
Visit Colorado’s wine country
Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries. However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state’s “wine country” is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.
You’ll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. Some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado’s wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction, most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.
A stay at Palisade’s Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado. Make sure to take advantage of the property’s daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca. For those seeking a relaxed yet refined experience among the varied options of what to see in Colorado, the wine country offers a delightful surprise. Planning an all inclusive colorado trip could also include options to explore this unique region.
Vail
While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Italian cuisine at La Nonna Ristorante or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.
Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you’re looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp Hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you’d rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.
Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge
If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don’t worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,200 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you’re still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.
There’s an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Tommy Knocker Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds. For adrenaline junkies exploring what to see in Colorado, the Royal Gorge is an absolute must.
Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs
This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and several terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features soaking pools as well as two 230-foot waterslides open seasonally. If you’re not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities, including cross-country skiing, horseback riding, snowmobiling, ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.
If you’re planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs, recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern furnishings and gorgeous views.
Go leaf peeping
The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which has one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there’s an early freeze.
If you’re heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular “Crack Fries.” Witnessing this transformation is a beautiful way to experience what to see in Colorado during the autumn months.
Drive the highest road in North America
The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You’ll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.
Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you’re an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it’s one of the more popular 14ers to climb.
Experience small-town life in Salida
Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. In fact, the town is the state’s largest national historic district, and downtown Salida is Colorado’s first Certified Creative District.
As you walk down F Street, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. At the end of the street, you’ll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring. Discovering gems like Salida adds depth to the question of what to see in Colorado, revealing its rich history and local culture.
Bishop Castle
If you’re looking for a more quirky Colorado adventure, making the trek to Bishop Castle – which sits 73 miles south of Colorado Springs – is well worth the time. This three-story actual castle is considered an active construction site as for more than five decades, a single man dedicated his life to building the structure – without help from anyone else.
Though Jim Bishop sadly passed away in November 2024 before he was able to finish his monumental project, Bishop Castle is still open and free to visit. (Bishop remembered his frustration of being unable to afford zoo or ballpark visits as a child and therefore legally documented that his castle would always be free for the public to visit, though donations are accepted.)
Today, you can traverse bridges, climb staircases and explore a variety of interior rooms including the Grand Ballroom. With soaring towers and even a “Fire-Breathing Dragon” structure, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into medieval times – or a magical realm. It’s certainly a unique answer to the question of what to see in Colorado!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some winter activities besides skiing in Colorado?
Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:
- Take the family dog-sledding
- Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
- Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
- Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
- Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
- Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
- Soak in a beer tub at Oakwell Beer Spa
What can I do in Colorado during the summer?
It’s no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:
- Rock climb in Eldorado Canyon State Park
- Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
- Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
- See the stunning Maroon Bells
- Tour a cave at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park in Manitou Springs
- Hike around Dinosaur National Monument
- Experience a via ferrata in Ouray or Telluride
- Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
However, plenty of other activities await if you’re not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:
- Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
- Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
- Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
- Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
- Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence
- Dress up for the Colorado Renaissance Faire
In conclusion, exploring What To See In Colorado reveals a state of incredible contrasts and endless possibilities. From the peak of a 14er to the depths of an ancient dwelling, a luxurious spa day to a thrilling whitewater raft trip, Colorado truly offers a journey for every kind of traveler. So, what adventure calls to you first?