Colorado is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country.
The Rocky Mountains run through the state, providing ample opportunity for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
In addition, Colorado is home to dozens of national parks and monuments, making it a perfect destination for those who love to explore.
The state’s capital, Denver, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer.
From world-class museums and restaurants to lively nightlife and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Denver. And, of course, Colorado is also home to the world-famous Rocky Mountain Ski Resort, which attracts visitors from all over the globe.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the scenery or an exciting city to explore, Colorado has something for everyone.
Things To Do In Colorado
1. Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens is a public botanical garden.
The gardens were founded in 1950 and encompass 24 acres (9.7 ha), with 9,000 different plants from all over the world.
They are open year-round, and offer a variety of events and programs for the public.
The gardens feature a number of different gardens, including an herb garden, a Japanese garden, a Rocky Mountain Native Plant Garden, and more.
They also have a greenhouse complex which houses tropical plants from around the world. In addition to the gardens themselves, Denver Botanic Gardens also offers a number of education programs for both children and adults.
Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the premier tourist destinations in Denver, and is one of the top Colorado attractions.
Address: 1005 York St, Denver, CO 80206
2. Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is home to many unique rock formations, as well as hiking trails and scenic views.
One of the most popular attractions at Garden of the Gods is the Balanced Rock. This massive rock formation is balancing on a smaller rock, and it is believed to be millions of years old.
Visitors can hike to the top of the Balanced Rock and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Another popular attraction at Garden of the Gods is the Siamese Twins Towers. These two unique rock formations are connected at the base, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Visitors can also hike to the top of the Siamese Twins Towers and enjoy panoramic views of the city of Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods is also home to a variety of plants and animals. The park is home to many species of birds, as well as deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. Garden of the Gods is a great place to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
Visitors can also enjoy picnicking at Garden of the Gods. The park has many picnic areas, as well as a playground and a pavilion. It’s also possible to rent bikes and go for a ride on the many trails that wind through the park.
Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
3. Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument is a U.S. National Monument located in the western United States near the city of Grand Junction, Colorado.
The monument protects an area of canyons and mesas featuring a wealth of geological resources and wildlife. It is one of the largest national monuments in the country, encompassing an area of over 20,000 acres (80 km2).
The monument was established in 1911 by President William Howard Taft and is managed by the National Park Service.
The area includes several hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and opportunities for rock climbing and camping. The monument attracts more than half a million visitors each year.
Address: 1750 Rim Rock Dr, Grand Junction, CO 81507
4. Mount Evans
Mount Evans is one of the tallest mountains in Colorado, measuring 14,271 feet (4,348 m) above sea level.
The peak is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, about 27 miles (43 km) southwest of Denver.
Mount Evans is the highest point in the eponymous Mount Evans Scenic Byway, a 28-mile (45 km) road that reaches an elevation of 14,130 feet (4,309 m), making it the highest paved road in North America.
Despite its height, much of Mount Evans is accessible by automobile. The peak can be reached by two routes: from Idaho Springs via State Highway 103 and from Evergreen via State Highway 74. The latter route is closed in winter.
From the summit of Mount Evans, visitors can see more than 100 miles (160 km) of the Rocky Mountains, including Longs Peak, Mount Bierstadt, Mount Warren, Torreys Peak, Grays Peak, and Pikes Peak. On a clear day, the view extends to the Continental Divide, some 100 miles (160 km) away.
The mountain is part of the Mount Evans Wilderness area in Arapaho National Forest.
The wilderness area includes the summits of Mounts Spalding and Warren, as well as Chicago Peak, Square Top Mountain, and Ptarmigan Peak.
Address: Mt Evans Rd, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
5. Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains are a mountain range that stretches from the northernmost part of North America all the way down to New Mexico.
The Colorado Rockies are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason – they offer some of the most scenic views and outdoor activities in the country.
There are many different things to do in the Rocky Mountains, depending on what you’re interested in.
If you love hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains by taking a scenic drive or taking a ride on one of the many ski lifts.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the Rocky Mountains.
Address: Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, CO 80517
6. Main Street
Main Street Colorado is located in the heart of downtown Denver.
The area is filled with Victorian-style buildings, shops, restaurants, and hotels. Main Street is also home to the State Capitol Building, the Denver Mint, and the Denver Art Museum.
The Main Street Colorado district was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. The area is well-preserved and has been meticulously maintained over the years.
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Denver and receives over two million visitors each year.
Main Street is the perfect place to spend a day exploring all that Denver has to offer. There are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant and lively area.
Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and sightseeing all within walking distance. Main Street is also a great place to catch a glimpse of Denver’s rich history and culture.
Address: Main St, Denver, CO 80206
7. Flatirons
The Flatirons are a group of five distinct rock formations located in Boulder, Colorado. They are a popular tourist destination, and offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
The Flatirons are made up of sandstone that was deposited during the Late Cretaceous period, around 66-100 million years ago.
The rocks have been erosion over time, which has created the distinctive flat, triangular shape that they are known for.
There are several hiking trails that lead to the top of the Flatirons, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Boulder and the Rockies.
There is also a popular climbing spot called “The Third Flatiron”, which is a popular challenge for experienced climbers.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking view and some great hiking, the Flatirons are definitely worth a visit!
Address: Chautauqua Park, Boulder, CO 80302
8. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum is a historic tourist attraction in Durango, Colorado.
The railroad offers scenic rides through the stunning San Juan Mountains on a narrow gauge railway.
The museum showcases the history of the railroad and its impact on the development of Durango and the surrounding area.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was built in 1881 to transport silver and gold ore from the mines in Silverton to the smelters in Durango.
The railroad quickly became an important part of the local economy, transporting not only ore, but also lumber, livestock, supplies, and passengers.
The railroad offers a variety of scenic rides through the San Juan Mountains, including trips to Cascade Canyon, Needleton, and Animas Forks. The railway also offers special event trains, such as the Fall Color Train and the Polar Express.
Address: 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
9. Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two of the most popular peaks in Colorado. Located near Aspen, the Maroon Bells offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Visitors to the Maroon Bells can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding.
There are also several scenic drives that wind through the area.
In addition, the Maroon Bells are a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.
Address: Maroon Creek Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
10. Trail Ridge Road
The Trail Ridge Road also known as the Rocky Mountain National Park Highway, stretches for over 60 miles through the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
It reaches an elevation of more than 12,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest paved roads in North America.
The road was built in the early 1920s and originally served as a route for vehicles to access the different ski resorts in the area.
Today, it is a popular summer destination for tourists who come to experience the unique scenery and wildlife of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking along the road.
Due to its high elevation, the Trail Ridge Road is typically only open from late May to early October. During this time, the road is subject to closures due to weather conditions.
As a result, it is important for visitors to check the road conditions before embarking on their journey.
Despite its challenges, the Trail Ridge Road is considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States. It provides visitors with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and is a great way to experience the beauty of nature.
Address: Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, CO 80517
11. Fish Creek Falls
Fish Creek Falls is located in the town of Estes Park, which is about an hour and a half drive from Denver.
The falls themselves are quite impressive, and there are plenty of hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views.
There is also a visitor center at the falls, which has a gift shop and provides information about the area.
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to hike and take in some amazing scenery, Fish Creek Falls is definitely worth a visit. Just be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture the beauty of this place for years to come.
Address: Estes Park, CO 80517
12. Hanging Lake
Hanging Lake is a stunning body of water located in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado. Formed by a glacier, the lake is fed by several waterfalls and is surrounded by cliffs and hiking trails.
The area is very popular with tourists and is known for its beautiful scenery.
The lake is located in Glenwood Canyon, which is a canyon formed by the Colorado River. The lake is situated about 7 miles from Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
The lake is fed by several waterfalls, which flow into it from the surrounding cliffs. These waterfalls provide the majority of the Lake’s inflow.
Hanging Lake gets its name from the fact that it appears to be suspended from the cliff walls that surround it.
The area around Hanging Lake is very popular with tourists.
The lake itself is a beautiful sight, and the hiking trails that wind through the canyon offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
The area is also home to a number of other tourist attractions, such as the Glenwood Caverns, which are a series of caves located in the canyon.
Address: Glenwood Canyon, Colorado
13. Telluride Mountain Village Gondola
The Telluride Mountain Village Gondola is a free gondola ride that takes visitors from the town of Telluride up to the Mountain Village.
The gondola provides stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and the valley below, and is a great way to get around during the winter months when the roads are snow-covered.
The Telluride Mountain Village Gondola operates year-round, with extended hours during the winter ski season.
It is a popular tourist attraction, as it provides an easy and scenic way to get between Telluride and Mountain Village.
There are two gondola stations, one in each town. The ride takes about 10 minutes, and there is no charge for passengers. The gondola is wheelchair accessible, and pets are allowed on the ride as long as they are leashed.
The Telluride Mountain Village Gondola is a great way to experience the beauty of the San Juans, and is an essential part of any visit to Telluride.
Address: Telluride, CO 81435
14. Vail Ski Resort
Vail Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, and is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
The resort spans more than 5,000 acres, and has more than 200 trails for skiing and snowboarding.
In addition to the slopes, the resort also offers a variety of other activities, including ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, and more.
The resort is also home to a number of restaurants and bars, as well as shops and boutiques.
Vail Ski Resort first opened its doors in 1962, and has since become one of the most popular ski destinations in the country.
Every year, the resort welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or just enjoy the mountain scenery, Vail Ski Resort is the perfect place to do it.
Address: Vail, CO 81657
15. Strawberry Park Hot Springs
The Strawberry Park Hot Springs are located in a beautiful setting, and the springs themselves are very relaxing.
The springs are located in a valley, and they are surrounded by mountains. The springs are also located near a river, which provides a beautiful view.
The hot springs are fed by several clean sources of water, providing a crystal clear place to relax and enjoy.
Address: 44200 County Road 36, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487
16. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the United States.
The Mesa Verde region was first inhabited by hunter-gatherers around 7000 BC. These early people began to build small pit houses and later, cliff dwellings, as they adapted to a changing climate and dwindling resources. By 1300 AD, the Mesa Verde region was largely abandoned.
Today, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado.
Visitors can explore the park’s many archaeological sites, hike its trails, and camp in its backcountry.
Address: Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
17. Denver Art Museum
Founded in 1893, the Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in the United States. It is located in downtown Denver, Colorado. The museum’s collection includes more than 70,000 works of art, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in the world. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
The Denver Art Museum was founded in 1893 by a group of citizens who wanted to bring art and culture to the city of Denver. The museum’s first home was a small gallery in downtown Denver. In 1896, the museum moved to a larger building on Broadway. In 1919, the museum relocated again to its current home on 14th Avenue.
The Denver Art Museum houses a diverse collection of art from all over the world. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. The museum also has a library and archives that contain more than 1 million items.
The Denver Art Museum is open year-round and offers a variety of exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Address: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
18. Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the largest natural history museums in the United States. It houses over 1.5 million specimens, including fossils, minerals, plants, animals, and human cultural artifacts.
The museum has a world-renowned research department that conducts scientific studies on a variety of topics related to the natural world. The museum also offers a variety of public programs and educational resources for both adults and children.
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science was founded in 1900 by a group of citizens who were passionate about the natural world.
The museum’s first home was a small room in the basement of the city hall. Today, the museum is housed in a beautiful building in the heart of downtown Denver.
The museum’s collections have grown significantly over the years, and it now has one of the largest and most diverse collections of natural history specimens in the world.
Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
19. Arkansas River
Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic rivers in the country, and the Arkansas River is no exception.
This river flows through the heart of the state, and its sparkling waters are a sight to behold. Here are some facts about this amazing river:
The Arkansas River is one of the longest rivers in the United States, measuring 1,469 miles from its headwaters in Colorado to its mouth in Arkansas.
The river gets its name from the French word for “downstream”, which is fitting given its downstream journey through Colorado.
The Arkansas River is home to many different species of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. The river also supports a healthy population of bald eagles.
The Arkansas River is a popular destination for rafters and kayakers, as its rapids offer an exciting challenge for experienced paddlers.
Visiting the Arkansas River is one of the top things to do in Colorado and the natural beauty and gorgeous scenery will not disappoint.
FAQ
What is Colorado best known for?
Colorado is best known for its stunning natural scenery and its many outdoor recreational opportunities. The state is home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the country, as well as rivers, lakes, and forests.
Colorado is also a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, and is home to several world-class ski resorts. In the summer you can enjoy the mountain air with some mountain biking and amusement parks which make Colorado fun.
Does Colorado have snow?
Colorado receives an average of about 15 inches of snow each year. However, the amount of snowfall varies depending on the location. The mountains often receive more snow than the lower-lying areas of the state.
When is the best time to visit Colorado?
The best time to visit Colorado depends on your individual preferences. If you enjoy skiing and snowboarding, then the best time to visit is during the winter months. However, if you prefer milder weather, then the spring or summer might be a better time for you. Colorado is a beautiful state year-round, so no matter when you visit, you’re sure to enjoy your stay.
What is the prettiest place in Colorado?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as beauty is subjective. However, some of the most popular places to visit in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, Glenwood Canyon, and the Telluride Mountain Village Gondola. These locations offer stunning views of the mountains, forests, and valleys that make Colorado such a unique and beautiful state.
How many days do you need to visit Colorado?
If you plan to spend most of your time skiing or snowboarding, then a few days might be all you need. However, if you want to explore all that Colorado has to offer, then you might need a week or more. Several of the most fun tourist attractions are spread out throughout the state, so it can take time to travel between them.
The travel time between central Colorado and Southwestern Colorado is about 45 minutes.
What are some additional things to see not on the list?
Alongside our top 19 things to do in Colorado, you could also see the:
- Sand Dunes National Park
- Gunnison National Park
- Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
- Dinosaur National Monument
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
- Cliff Palace
- Ancient Cliff Dwellings
- Sprague Lake Trail
- Molly Brown House Museum
- Fort Collins
- Buffalo Bill Museum
- Great Sand Dunes National
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Pikes Peak Cog Railway
- Great Divide Brewing Company
- Black Canyon
And many more fun things to enjoy your Colorado vacation.
Are there any ghost towns in Colorado?
Yes, there are several ghost towns in Colorado. Some of the most well-known ghost towns in Colorado include St. Elmo, Animas Forks, and Ashcroft. Today, they offer a glimpse into the state’s history and are popular tourist destinations.
These towns were once bustling mining communities that have since been abandoned. They are now surrounded by red rocks and wild west visitor centers.
