Colorado Map With Parks
If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, you’re in for a treat. The state is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the red rock formations of Garden of the Gods. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Colorado has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions and hidden gems, as well as budget-friendly tips and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top Attractions
Colorado is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of iconic landmarks to check off your list. Some of the top attractions include:
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Garden of the Gods
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Maroon Bells
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Of course, these are just a few of the many amazing sights to see in Colorado. Be sure to also check out lesser-known spots like Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
Food Scene
Colorado has a thriving food scene that spans from farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks. Some must-try dishes include:
- Green chili
- Bison burgers
- Colorado-style pizza (with honey on top!)
- Rocky Mountain oysters (if you’re feeling adventurous)
Don’t miss out on the craft beer scene, either. Colorado has over 400 breweries, so there’s something for every taste.
Outdoor Adventure
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Colorado’s outdoor adventures are not to be missed. Some of the top activities include:
- Hiking
- Skiing and snowboarding
- White-water rafting
- Mountain biking
- Ziplining
There are also plenty of opportunities for more off-the-beaten-path experiences, like hot springs soaking and rock climbing.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks that tell the story of the state’s past. Some of the top spots include:
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Leadville (a former mining town)
- The Colorado State Capitol
- The Molly Brown House Museum
Be sure to take a walking tour of some of the state’s historic districts, too.
Family-Friendly Activities
Colorado is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and parents!) will love. Some of the top family-friendly attractions include:
- The Denver Zoo
- The Children’s Museum of Denver
- The Butterfly Pavilion
- Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
- The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Colorado has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Some ideas include:
- The UFO Watchtower in Hooper
- The Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining”)
- The ghost town of St. Elmo
- The Great Colorado Pie Fight in Cortez
- The Colorado Gators Reptile Park
These are just a few examples – there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in Colorado.
Natural Wonders
From towering mountains to stunning rock formations, Colorado is home to some truly awe-inspiring natural wonders. Some of the top spots to see include:
- Garden of the Gods
- The Maroon Bells
- The Great Sand Dunes
- The Black Canyon of the Gunnison
- The Colorado National Monument
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s hot springs and waterfalls.
Vibrant Nightlife
Colorado has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some of the top spots include:
- The Fillmore Auditorium (for concerts)
- The Great Divide Brewing Company
- The Skylark Lounge
- The Cruise Room (a historic bar in Denver)
- The Cowboy Lounge
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s festivals and events, like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Great American Beer Festival.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to support local businesses, Colorado has plenty of markets to explore. Some of the top spots include:
- The Denver Flea
- The Boulder Farmers’ Market
- The Colorado Springs Flea Market
- The Fort Collins Farmers’ Market
- The Aspen Farmers’ Market
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s craft fairs and art markets.
Beaches and Mountains
Colorado is known for its mountains, but did you know that it also has beaches? The state’s reservoirs and lakes offer plenty of opportunities for swimming and water sports. Some of the top spots include:
- Lake Dillon
- Carter Lake
- Chatfield Reservoir
- Blue Mesa Reservoir
- The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s hot springs and waterfalls.
Cultural Immersion
Colorado has a rich cultural history, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the state’s art and music scene. Some ideas include:
- The Denver Art Museum
- The Colorado Symphony
- The Aspen Music Festival and School
- The Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
- The Red Rocks Amphitheatre (for concerts)
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s museums and galleries.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Colorado’s cities and historic districts is on foot. Some of the top walking tours include:
- The Denver Microbrew Tour
- The Historic Downtown Boulder Food Tour
- The Ghost Tour of Old Town Fort Collins
- The Manitou Springs Walking Tour
- The Colorado Springs Food Tour
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s self-guided walking tours.
Architectural Marvels
Colorado is home to some stunning architecture, from historic buildings to contemporary designs. Some of the top spots to see include:
- The Colorado State Capitol
- The Denver Art Museum
- The Stanley Hotel
- The Hotel Colorado
- The Union Station Bus Terminal in Denver
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s historic districts and neighborhoods.
Biking Routes
Colorado is a paradise for cyclists, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some of the top biking routes include:
- The Colorado Trail
- The Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
- The Mount Evans Scenic Byway
- The Kokopelli Trail
- The San Juan Skyway
Be sure to also check out some of the state’s bike-friendly cities, like Boulder and Fort Collins.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, Colorado has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Some of the top spots include:
- The Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs
- The Shambhala Mountain Center
- The Dunton Hot Springs
- The St. Julien Hotel and Spa in Boulder