Colorado is a state that truly has it all, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the arid desert landscapes punctuated by dramatic red rock formations and ancient historical sites. Deciding Where Is The Best Place To Visit In Colorado isn’t a simple question, as the answer depends entirely on what kind of adventure calls to your soul. Do you dream of world-class skiing, challenging hikes to alpine lakes, exploring the echoes of ancient civilizations, soaking in healing hot springs, or immersing yourself in vibrant city culture?
As someone who’s explored the Centennial State extensively, I can tell you that its diversity is its greatest strength. This guide will take you through a curated list of destinations, each offering a unique slice of the Colorado experience, helping you pinpoint your perfect spot. Planning a trip to Colorado is an exciting endeavor, and understanding the distinct character of each region is the first step.
From mountain towns that pulse with outdoor energy to quiet corners steeped in history and surprising natural wonders, Colorado presents a tapestry of possibilities. While the Rockies are undeniably iconic and offer incredible experiences like those found in the best vacation spots in Rocky Mountains, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore some of the most captivating places that make choosing just one “best” place delightfully impossible.
Rattlesnake Canyon Arches: A Natural Wonder
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor in Utah, Rattlesnake Canyon Arches holds a stunning secret: the second-highest concentration of natural arches in the world. Tucked away in a vast preserve, this hidden gem offers the chance to explore incredible sandstone architecture without the crowds or fees of a national park. Hiking among these 35 arches feels like stepping into a different realm, a testament to the slow, powerful artistry of nature. It’s a truly unique geological spectacle that highlights the surprising diversity of Colorado’s landscapes.
Explore the intricate formations of Rattlesnake Canyon, home to a remarkable collection of natural arches.
Larimer Square, Denver: Historic Charm in the City
While Colorado is celebrated for its wilderness, the allure of its urban centers, particularly Denver, is undeniable. Larimer Square stands as a beacon of the city’s history and charm. As Denver’s first designated historic district, this block boasts beautifully preserved Victorian architecture housing a collection of unique boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and lively bars. Strolling under the festive lights strung across the street offers a perfect blend of historical appreciation and modern city buzz. It’s easily accessible from the bustling Union Station, making it a prime spot to experience Denver’s sophisticated side.
Victorian buildings adorned with lights create a charming atmosphere in Denver’s historic Larimer Square.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Dramatic Depths
For a truly awe-inspiring display of geological power, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is unmatched. This national park is defined by a narrow, incredibly deep gorge carved over eons by the Gunnison River. The sheer, dark walls plunge dramatically, creating views that are both breathtaking and slightly unsettling. Standing on the rim and gazing down into the abyss, you might spot a golden eagle soaring overhead or marvel at the “Painted Wall,” a cliff face streaked with colorful veins that resemble giant brushstrokes. It’s a place that makes you feel small against the backdrop of immense natural forces.
Adventurous climbers brave the sheer, challenging walls of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Colorado National Monument: Western Grandeur
Perched high on the Colorado Plateau, the Colorado National Monument embodies the iconic scenery of the American West. Here, you’ll find colossal sandstone monoliths standing sentinel over deep canyons, expansive vistas, and the chance to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep. Driving the spectacular Rim Rock Drive offers panoramic views around every bend. The monument provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping year-round, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking classic high-desert landscapes and outdoor exploration.
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The majestic Independence Monument rises from the canyon floor in Colorado National Monument.
Aspen: Luxury, Culture, and Mountain Beauty
Aspen is far from a secret, known globally for its luxurious resorts and four distinct ski areas accessible with a single ticket. But beyond the glitz, Aspen is a genuinely beautiful mountain town nestled in the Elk Mountains. It offers a surprisingly rich cultural scene for its size, with art galleries, music venues, and a vibrant dining landscape. No visit is complete without seeing the Maroon Bells, arguably the most photographed peaks in North America, whose reflection in the lake is a truly iconic Colorado image. Aspen proves that glamour and rugged mountain beauty can coexist.
Chic boutiques and restaurants line the streets of downtown Aspen, set against a mountain backdrop.
Mesa Verde National Park: Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Stepping into Mesa Verde National Park is like traveling back in time. Located in southwestern Colorado, this site preserves the incredible cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people centuries ago. Walking among these intricate structures, carefully constructed within sandstone alcoves, offers profound insight into the lives, ingenuity, and eventual disappearance of this ancient culture. As a World Heritage Site and an International Dark Sky Park, Mesa Verde not only protects significant history but also offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, connecting visitors to both the human past and the vastness of the cosmos.
The remarkable cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people are preserved within Mesa Verde National Park.
Amache National Historic Site: A Sobering Historical Landmark
Colorado’s history isn’t solely defined by pioneers and miners. The Amache National Historic Site, formerly known as the Granada Relocation Center, stands as a crucial, albeit somber, reminder of a less celebrated chapter: the unjust incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Visiting Amache is a deeply moving experience, offering a vital opportunity to learn about the more than 10,000 individuals, many of them U.S. citizens, who were held here. The site preserves foundations and reconstructed buildings, sharing powerful stories of resilience and hardship that are essential to understanding American history.
Foundations mark the locations of barracks at the Amache National Historic Site, remembering those incarcerated here.
Pagosa Springs: Soaking in Nature’s Spa
Colorado is dotted with natural hot springs, but Pagosa Springs boasts the title of home to the world’s deepest hot spring. This small southern Colorado town is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Springs Resort & Spa offers beautifully terraced pools along the river, providing a luxurious soaking experience with scenic views. For a more rustic and free option, the “hippy dip” across the river offers a natural, undeveloped soaking spot. It’s the perfect place to unwind and let the mineral-rich waters soothe your muscles after a day of exploring.
A woman relaxes in the therapeutic natural hot springs of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park: The Crown Jewel
Arguably the most iconic answer to where is the best place to visit in Colorado for many, Rocky Mountain National Park lives up to its reputation. Just a short drive from Denver, this vast park spans the Continental Divide, offering dramatic mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest continuous paved roads in North America, provides stunning views and access to high-alpine environments. In the fall, the park is alive with the bugle of elk and vibrant golden aspens.
For serious adventurers, summiting Longs Peak is a quintessential Colorado challenge. This park encapsulates the raw, majestic beauty of the state’s namesake mountains. When considering what to see in Colorado state, Rocky Mountain National Park is almost always at the top of the list for a reason.
Bear Lake offers a picturesque view of the surrounding peaks within Rocky Mountain National Park.
Crestone: A Hub for Spirituality and Sustainable Living
For a truly “alternative” Colorado experience, head to Crestone. This tiny town at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is known for its unique blend of spirituality and commitment to sustainable, off-the-grid living. It’s home to numerous spiritual centers representing diverse faiths, stupas, and meditation retreats, all coexisting with residents pursuing independent lifestyles. Visiting Crestone offers a chance to connect with a different kind of community and experience a slower, more introspective pace of life amidst stunning natural beauty.
Peaceful landscaped grounds near Crestone reflect the town’s spiritual and natural focus.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Music and Geology Combined
Just outside Denver lies a geological marvel transformed into a world-renowned music venue: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Massive, tilted red sandstone formations create a natural amphitheater with acoustics so perfect it’s a dream stage for performers worldwide. Beyond concerts, Red Rocks is a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts running the stairs, yoga classes, or simply enjoying the stunning views during the day. It’s a unique intersection of nature, culture, and community, embodying the Colorado spirit of blending outdoor activity with entertainment.
The iconic red rock formations form a natural amphitheater near Denver, known for its acoustics and views.
Glenwood Springs: Adventure and Relaxation by the River
Glenwood Springs offers a fantastic mix of adventure and relaxation, easily accessible from the major interstate. This mountain town boasts multiple developed hot springs, including the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, perfect for soaking weary muscles. For thrill-seekers, the mountaintop adventure park, reachable only by gondola, offers roller coasters and other exciting rides with incredible views. The Colorado River flows through town, providing opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. Glenwood Springs is a versatile destination appealing to families, adventurers, and those seeking therapeutic waters alike. Colorado vacation packages for families often feature destinations like Glenwood Springs due to its broad appeal and variety of activities.
View of Glenwood Springs and the surrounding mountains as seen from the Adventure Park gondola.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: A Desert Oasis
Prepare to be surprised: Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve protects this incredible natural phenomenon, where vast piles of sand sit dramatically at the foot of the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Sandboarding or sand sledding down the towering dunes is a unique, exhilarating experience. In late spring and early summer, Medano Creek often appears at the base, creating a shallow stream perfect for wading and tubing with a unique “surge flow.” This park is a surreal landscape unlike anywhere else in the state.
Vast sand dunes rise dramatically against the backdrop of mountains in Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Crested Butte: The Wildflower Capital
Crested Butte might offer the classic Colorado mountain town experience with excellent hiking, biking, and skiing, but it earns its special nickname as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado” for a very good reason. In the summer, the surrounding meadows explode with vibrant colors as countless wildflowers bloom. This floral spectacle is so significant that the town hosts an annual festival celebrating the blooms. Visiting in July offers a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry, making Crested Butte a particularly enchanting destination for nature lovers.
The charming town of Crested Butte nestled below the ski resort, surrounded by summer greenery.
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument: Archaeological Richness
For those fascinated by ancient civilizations, the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a must-visit. This vast archaeological preserve in southwestern Colorado holds an incredible density of ruins from the Ancestral Pueblo people. Spanning 174,000 acres, it contains thousands of recorded sites, including villages, cliff dwellings, shrines, and petroglyphs, offering unparalleled insight into their daily lives and connection to the landscape. Exploring this area provides a profound sense of history and the enduring legacy of Indigenous cultures in the region.
A visitor explores the ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins within Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.
Steamboat Springs: A Blend of Western Heritage and Recreation
Steamboat Springs offers a unique blend of rugged Western heritage and abundant outdoor recreation. While it’s another fantastic destination for skiing and hot springs, Steamboat retains a distinct cowboy town feel. Here, you’re just as likely to see a cowboy hat as hiking boots. The town offers access to multiple hot springs and Steamboat Lake State Park to the north, providing diverse recreational opportunities. It’s a place where the spirit of the American West is still very much alive alongside modern mountain town amenities.
A windmill and haystacks stand on a farm near Steamboat Springs, reflecting the area’s Western heritage.
Denver Union Station: The City’s Living Room
More than just a transportation hub, Denver’s Union Station has been beautifully revitalized into a vibrant heart for the city. This historic 1914 Beaux-Arts building now houses a boutique hotel, unique shops, and a collection of acclaimed chef-owned restaurants and bars. It’s a place where people gather to eat, drink, work, and simply soak in the atmosphere. From Union Station, you can easily connect to other parts of the city via light rail or bus, or even catch an Amtrak train for longer journeys, making it a perfect starting point for exploring Denver and beyond.
The historic Beaux-Arts architecture of Denver Union Station, a central city landmark.
Durango: Where Mountains Meet Desert
Durango is spectacularly situated where the rugged San Juan Mountains transition into high desert. This unique positioning provides access to a wide array of landscapes and activities. Hot springs, ski resorts like Purgatory, mountain biking trails, and the Animas River running through town offer endless outdoor pursuits. A highlight is riding the historic 19th-century Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a scenic journey through mountain passes to the historic mining town of Silverton.
Durango perfectly encapsulates the diverse geography and adventurous spirit of southwest Colorado. Planning a trip to Colorado Springs might involve exploring nearby mountain towns, but Durango offers a distinct flavor of the southwest, different from the Front Range experience. What to eat Colorado Springs might involve diverse culinary scenes, while Durango offers its own mix of Western and mountain town flavors.
An aerial view showcases the town of Durango nestled amongst mountains and river.
Dinosaur National Monument: Echoes of Prehistory
For anyone fascinated by prehistoric life, Dinosaur National Monument offers a thrilling journey millions of years into the past. Straddling the Colorado-Utah border, this monument is renowned for its incredible display of dinosaur fossils still embedded in rock walls. The Quarry Exhibit Hall allows visitors to see hundreds of bones in situ. Beyond the paleontology, the monument also features petroglyphs left by early humans and provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and rafting on the Green or Yampa Rivers. It’s a place where ancient history, both geological and human, converges.
Dinosaur fossils are visible embedded in the rock face at the Quarry Exhibit Hall in Dinosaur National Monument.
Boulder: Vibrant College Town Meets Outdoor Playground
Boulder perfectly blends the intellectual energy of a major university town with immediate access to incredible outdoor recreation. Located at the base of the Flatirons, dramatic rock formations crisscrossed with hiking and climbing trails, the city offers instant access to mountain adventures. Downtown, the pedestrian-only Pearl Street Mall is a lively hub filled with unique shops, street performers, art galleries, and innovative restaurants. Boulder’s focus on health, outdoor living, and intellectual pursuits gives it a distinctive, energetic vibe that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
The pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall is a lively center of activity in downtown Boulder.
So, Where Is the Best Place to Visit in Colorado?
As you can see, there’s no single answer to where is the best place to visit in Colorado. The state offers such an incredible spectrum of experiences that the “best” spot is the one that aligns with your interests and desires. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of the high mountains, the quiet solitude of the desert, the echoes of ancient history, the healing power of hot springs, or the vibrant energy of its cities and unique towns, Colorado has a destination waiting for you. My advice?
Don’t try to see it all in one trip. Pick a few spots that resonate most deeply and allow yourself to fully immerse in their unique character. Colorado is a state that rewards exploration and promises memories that will last a lifetime.