Best Places to Visit in Colorado | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Colorado Travel Guide
Quick overview of Colorado with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Colorado, USA, a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers a diverse range of landscapes, from towering peaks to vast plains, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, this state is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and whitewater rafting. Colorado is also home to numerous national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park, where visitors can explore alpine meadows, spot wildlife, and hike to stunning mountain vistas. Additionally, the vibrant city of Denver, the state capital, offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or looking to immerse yourself in urban charm, Colorado has something for everyone.
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Best Places To Visit in Colorado
1. Denver: The capital city of Colorado, Denver, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a perfect blend of urban attractions and natural beauty. Explore the historic Larimer Square with its charming boutiques and restaurants, or visit the Denver Art Museum to admire its impressive collection. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the proximity to the Rocky Mountains, where they can enjoy activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
2. Boulder: Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural surroundings and vibrant cultural scene. Take a stroll down Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly area filled with shops, galleries, and street performers. Don't miss the chance to hike in the Flatirons, iconic rock formations that offer breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
3. Aspen: Renowned for its world-class skiing and luxurious resorts, Aspen is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Hit the slopes at one of the four mountains in the area, or explore the charming downtown area with its upscale boutiques and art galleries. During the summer months, Aspen transforms into a haven for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing.
4. Colorado Springs: Located at the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is a city that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. Explore the stunning Garden of the Gods, a natural park with towering sandstone formations, or take a scenic drive to the top of Pikes Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding area. History buffs will enjoy visiting the United States Air Force Academy and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum.
5. Fort Collins: Known for its vibrant craft beer scene, Fort Collins is a charming city that offers a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. Take a tour of the New Belgium Brewery or explore the Colorado State University campus. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby Horsetooth Reservoir or Lory State Park.
6. Telluride: Tucked away in a picturesque box canyon, Telluride is a small mountain town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Ski down the slopes of the Telluride Ski Resort, or take a scenic gondola ride to Mountain Village for stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The town also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Telluride Film Festival and the Blues & Brews Festival.
7. Durango: Situated in the southwestern part of the state, Durango is a historic town that offers a glimpse into Colorado's Wild West past. Take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train that winds through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the nearby San Juan National Forest.
8. Glenwood Springs: Known for its natural hot springs, Glenwood Springs is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor adventure. Soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the world's largest mineral hot springs pool, or take a thrilling ride on the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The town is also home to the Glenwood Canyon, a scenic area with hiking and biking trails.
9. Estes Park: Located at the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a charming mountain town that offers stunning natural beauty and a range of outdoor activities. Explore the park's numerous hiking trails, or take a scenic drive along the Trail Ridge Road for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King's novel "The Shining".
10. Vail: Renowned as one of the top ski resorts in the world, Vail is a picturesque town that offers world-class skiing and a charming alpine village atmosphere. Hit the slopes at the Vail Mountain Resort, or explore the Vail Village with its upscale shops, restaurants, and art galleries. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and golfing in the surrounding area.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Colorado
1. Green Chili: Colorado is famous for its green chili, which is a spicy stew made with pork, green chilies, and various spices. It is a must-try dish in the state.
2. Rocky Mountain Oysters: Despite their name, Rocky Mountain oysters are not seafood but rather deep-fried bull testicles. They are a unique delicacy in Colorado and are often served as an appetizer.
3. Colorado Craft Beer: Colorado is known for its thriving craft beer scene. With numerous breweries scattered throughout the state, you can indulge in a wide variety of locally brewed beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
4. Bison Burger: Colorado is home to a large population of bison, and trying a bison burger is a great way to experience the local cuisine. These burgers are lean, flavorful, and often served with unique toppings like green chili or Colorado-made cheeses.
5. Palisade Peaches: Colorado's Palisade region is famous for its delicious peaches. These juicy and sweet fruits are a must-try when in season, and you can find them at farmers' markets and roadside stands throughout the state.
6. Denver Omelette: The Denver omelette is a classic American breakfast dish that originated in Colorado. Made with eggs, ham, onions, bell peppers, and cheese, it is a hearty and flavorful option to start your day.
7. Craft Cocktails: Colorado's cocktail scene is also thriving, with many bars and restaurants offering unique and creative craft cocktails. From whiskey-based drinks to innovative concoctions using local ingredients, there is something for every cocktail enthusiast.
8. Colorado Lamb: Colorado is known for its high-quality lamb, thanks to the state's open pastures and natural grazing lands. Trying a dish featuring Colorado lamb, such as a rack of lamb or lamb chops, is a great way to savor the local flavors.
9. Hatch Green Chile: Similar to the green chili, Hatch green chiles are a popular ingredient in Colorado cuisine. These flavorful peppers are often roasted and used in various dishes, including salsas, stews, and even desserts.
10. Craft Distilleries: In addition to craft beer, Colorado is also home to many craft distilleries producing a wide range of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum. Visiting a local distillery and sampling their products is a great way to explore the state's spirits scene.
11. Wild Game: Colorado's abundant wildlife offers opportunities to try unique meats like elk, venison, and quail. Many restaurants in the state feature dishes made with wild game, allowing you to experience the flavors of the Rocky Mountains.
12. Colorado Honey: With its diverse flora and fauna, Colorado produces a variety of delicious honey. From wildflower honey to honey made from specific plants like lavender or clover, exploring the local honey offerings can be a sweet adventure.
13. Craft Coffee: Colorado's coffee culture is thriving, with numerous specialty coffee shops and roasters throughout the state. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a unique pour-over, you can find excellent coffee options to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
14. Cherry Pie: Colorado is known for its cherry orchards, particularly in the town of Paonia. Trying a slice of homemade cherry pie made with locally grown cherries is a delightful way to indulge in the state's fruity offerings.
15. Farm-to-Table Dining: Colorado's commitment to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients is evident in its farm-to-table dining scene. Many restaurants in the state prioritize using fresh, seasonal, and locally grown produce, providing a unique culinary experience.
Best Time To Visit Colorado
The best time to visit Colorado, USA is during the summer months of June to August. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the beautiful national parks. Additionally, wildflowers are in bloom during this time, creating stunning landscapes. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations can be crowded. If you prefer quieter and less crowded times, spring and fall are also great times to visit. During these seasons, you can enjoy mild temperatures, colorful foliage, and fewer tourists. Winter is another popular time to visit Colorado, especially for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The state is known for its world-class ski resorts and powdered slopes. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snowfall during this time.
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Transportation To Colorado
There are several transportation options to Colorado, USA. You can travel by air and fly into one of the major airports in the state, such as Denver International Airport (DEN) or Colorado Springs Airport (COS). Alternatively, you can drive to Colorado by car or take a bus. There are also train options available, such as Amtrak, which offers service to cities like Denver and Glenwood Springs. Once in Colorado, you can use public transportation, rental cars, or taxis to get around within the state.