A Local’s List: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Colorado
There are so many fun things to do in Colorado, sometimes it can be hard to keep track. As a long-time local, I have explored countless parts of the Centennial State and I still have plenty of destinations on my bucket list.
Getting bored in Colorado is seemingly impossible, with everything from large cities to epic mountains to visit. The seasons are distinct, with each one presenting new opportunities for activities. In the summer, warm weather is perfect for hiking and camping, while in the winter locals and visitors head to the slopes for skiing and snowshoeing.
Out of all the fun things to do in Colorado, I have narrowed it down to 20 of the top options. In this article, I walk through them with local tips for your visit.
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Stunning mountain peaks, expansive valleys, and crystal-clear alpine lakes are hallmarks of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is the crown jewel of Colorado and millions of people visit each year to experience its beauty.
In the summer, hiking, camping, and fishing are the most popular activities when warm temperatures and bright blue skies are the norm. In the winter, the crowds are much smaller and visitors take part in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Catch a Concert at Red Rocks
As one of the most iconic music venues in the United States, Red Rocks Amphitheater attracts a large array of notable musicians. Its stacked lineup is complemented by a stunning setting.
Concert-goers stand on steps that are cut into natural sandstone, with the rock walls rising on either side. Behind the stage, you have a clear view of the rolling foothills and the city lights of Denver.
As if this wasn’t enough, there are several miles of trails that wind through the area surrounding the park which make for a great day hike.
Drive the Mount Evans Byway
Ascend to over 14,000 feet in your car along the highest paved road in North America, where you will have panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous terrain. From the summit, you will see the continental divide, alpine lakes, and lush valleys.
The road starts from Idaho Springs, which is a quaint mountain town that shouldn’t be skipped. While you are there, walk around downtown and grab a slice of pizza at the local favorite Beau Jo’s.
Experience Meow Wolf
For an other-worldly experience, journey through Meow Wolf, an immersive art installation that is unlike any museum you have ever seen. Located in Denver, it is one of the main attractions in the city.
Trippy exhibits tell the sci-fi story of a cosmic adventure through an alien world as you walk through the building. Some of the exhibits are even interactive which keeps visitors engaged throughout the entire experience.
Tour the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a more typical museum experience but still well worth a visit. Rotating exhibits display everything from classical paintings to modern sculptures so there is sure to be something for everyone.
Two main buildings house enough art to keep you busy for hours, so budget plenty of time for your visit. Entry tickets are $19 for an adult non-resident, $16 for a senior non-resident, $15 for an adult Colorado resident, and $12 for a senior Colorado resident.
Visit Golden Gate Canyon State Park
42 state parks in Colorado offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, and Golden Gate Canyon is one of the best of all. Over 35 miles of multi-use trails meander through more than 12,000 acres of land, meaning you can explore the park for days on end.
Located just 30 miles west of Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is easy to access from the Mile-High City.
For the perfect way to tour the park, hike Mule Deer Trail Loop. It runs a little more than 10 miles and passes by the best lookout point in the park. Along the way, you will walk through several aspen groves which are particularly beautiful in the summer and fall.
Hike in Staunton State Park
Staunton State Park is not only one of Colorado’s newest state parks, but it is also one of its most impressive. Elk Falls is the most iconic destination in the park, where you can hike right to the base to experience the water crashing on the rocks below and the mist rising up. Alternatively, walk to the Elk Falls Overlook for a different vantage point of the falls.
Before you go, be sure to get you are prepared with everything you need for hiking in Colorado. A good pair of footwear, a trail map, and plenty of water are some of the most important items to bring.
When you are tired out from your hike, spread out at one of the picnic areas to enjoy a meal. Ranch Hand Picnic Area is the largest option, while Davis Ponds Picnic Area is a quiet spot located far away from the road.
Go Boating at Ridgway State Park
Located in southwest Colorado, Ridgway State Park is home to one of the prettiest reservoirs in the state. It is nestled among the San Juan Mountains, which serve as the impressive backdrop to the 300-acre body of water.
Boating and watersports are the main attractions here, with plenty of space to have fun on the water. If you don’t have your own boat, you can rent one at the Dutch Charlie Marina where you will also find a boat ramp and a swim beach.
For a more tranquil experience, try paddle boarding in the Dallas Creek Area. A large no-wake zone is the perfect place to paddle where you won’t be disturbed by motor boats. Rentals are available right next to the swim beach here meaning you don’t need to bring your own gear to participate.
Sandboard at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Large sand dunes lie at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado. The contrast of the dunes with the jagged peaks in the background is a sight to behold.
A unique and fun activity to try in the park is sandboarding. You can rent one of these special boards nearby at the Oasis Store or Spin Drift Sandboard Rentals and cruise down the dunes.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, so it is a fantastic area for stargazing. Be sure to stay up until the night sky is lit up with stars to get the full experience.
Spend a Day in Buena Vista
Buena Vista is a mountain town that has a long history dating back to the mining boom in the area over one hundred years ago. Today, the town maintains its historical feel and a walk through the streets will remind you of a time long ago.
Nearby, Twin Lakes are the perfect place to experience nature and cool off from the summer heat in the cool water. To get active, walk Interlaken Trail along the bank of the lakes.
Visit the “Switzerland of America”
The town of Ouray is nicknamed the “Switzerland America” due to its picturesque location among vast mountains.
A visit here doesn’t disappoint where you can try everything from shopping in town to an adrenaline-filled crossing of the Ouray Via Ferrata. To relax and unwind, head to one of the several hot springs in the area, including Box Canyon Lodge and Ouray Hot Springs Pool.
Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Tack this one on to a visit to Ouray. From Ouray, follow US Highway 550 south toward Silverton for one of the most scenic drives in the country.
This route is known as the “Million Dollar Highway” for its stunning views along its entire length. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road! Tight turns and the lack of guard rails make it important to be cautious while driving here.
It is best to attempt this drive when the roads are clear of snow in the summer and driving conditions are good.
Go Skiing at Vail
Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing and high-class resort. With over 5000 acres of terrain, 275 runs, and seven large back bowls, it is one of the largest ski resorts in the country.
In town, you will find relaxing spas, fine dining, and luxurious hotels. With so many amenities, there is no better place to splurge on a ski vacation than Vail.
Although Vail is less popular in the summer, it is still a fun place to visit in the summer. Opportunities for hiking abound and you will find far smaller crowds at many of the top places to visit in town.
See Dinosaur Tracks at Dinosaur Ridge
Unbeknownst to many, the Stegosaurus was discovered in Colorado. Today, the site of its discovery is known as Dinosaur Ridge.
This is also the location of the number one dinosaur tracksite in the world, where you can see real dinosaur footprints set into the rock. It is a pretty surreal feeling to look at these tracks and wonder what the region was like during the time that these ancient dinosaurs roamed.
Take a guided tour with a geologist, try the audio tour, or walk by the stops yourself to see the tracksite and remnants of dinosaur bones. Be sure to stop by the visitor center where exhibits tell more about the history of the area and staff are available to answer any questions you may have
Visit Fort Collins
As one of Colorado’s fastest-growing cities, the secret is out about Fort Collins. A bustling downtown area and abundant areas for outdoor recreation make this one of the top destinations in Colorado.
Check out Old Town, where the main square is a gathering place and the site of many restaurants and bars. As an added bonus, you are likely to find a musician playing on the stage throughout the summer.
For some outdoor time, locals and tourists alike head to Horsetooth Reservoir for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.
Tour Garden of the Gods
Millions of years of geological processes are visible at Garden of the Gods, located in Colorado Springs.
Red sandstone has eroded in such a way that many unique rock formations were left behind. Some of the most notable rock formations in Garden of the Gods are Balanced Rock, Siamese Twins, and Kissing Camels.
For an easy stroll, try the Central Garden Trail which is paved and has interpretive signs along the way that explain the park’s geology and history.
Taking a tour is an informative way to explore Garden of the Gods, and there are several options available. The trolley tours and the jeep tours are two of the top options, which provide open views of the landscape and a knowledgeable guide.
It’s one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs.
Explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Although lesser known than Rocky Mountain National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the premier natural areas in Colorado. From one of the many viewpoints, you can look into the canyon that has been carved by the Gunnison River.
The steep canyon walls have many layers of rock that demonstrate many different geological periods. Like Great Sand Dunes National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an International Dark Sky Park, so it is an exceptional place for star gazing.
See Mesa Verde National Park
A visit to Mesa Verde National Park takes you back in time to a period when the Ancestral Pueblo people inhabited the land. The impressive cliff dwellings that they constructed nearly 1000 years ago are still standing, which you can tour to this day.
Purchase a ticket to access the dwellings and receive a guided tour from a ranger who will explain the history of the region.
Go on a Backpacking Adventure
Backpacking is one of the best ways to experience the Colorado mountains. Something about carrying everything you need on your back is exhilarating and you can access some exceptional campsites on foot.
Some of the top areas to backpack include Rocky Mountain National Park, Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, and Lost Creek Wilderness Area. Note that many of these areas require a permit for backcountry camping and have rules and regulations you will need to follow.
Go Leaf-Peeping in the Fall
In the fall, the leaves on the aspen trees in Colorado begin to change color. They turn the landscape into a mosaic of oranges and yellows for some of the most stunning scenery of the year.
Aspen trees are common throughout Colorado, so you don’t have to look too hard to find them. One of the best places to find large groves of aspen trees is Guanella Pass, where they line the road. Another popular place to see the aspen trees in the fall is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, where the many miles of hiking trails pass through countless aspen groves.
Which One of These Things To Do in Colorado Will You Do First?
Home to everything from bustling cities to rugged mountains, Colorado has something to satisfy any traveler. Plenty of urban adventures can be found in cities like Denver and Fort Collins, while mountain towns provide access to a range of outdoor activities.
With so many things to do in Colorado, there is no time to waste. So, go ahead and explore everything it has to offer!
