A Map Of Colorado Counties
Introduction
Colorado, the Centennial State, is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culture. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the unique blend of urban and rural attractions, Colorado has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Top Attractions
Rocky Mountain National Park
One of Colorado’s most iconic attractions, Rocky Mountain National Park, offers breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. Be sure to visit Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a natural wonder with towering sandstone formations that make for great hiking and rock climbing. For a unique experience, take a guided Segway tour of the park.
Mesa Verde National Park
Explore the ancient dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde National Park. The park offers guided tours, hiking trails, and a museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
Hidden Gems
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Lesser-known than some of the other national parks in the state, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers stunning views of the canyon and the Gunnison River. You can hike, fish, or take a scenic drive along the canyon’s rim.
The Stanley Hotel
Located in Estes Park, The Stanley Hotel is a historic landmark and the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel, The Shining. Take a ghost tour or stay overnight for a spooky experience.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Experience the tallest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The park offers hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing opportunities.
Food Scene
Colorado’s food scene is diverse and delicious, with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and craft beer. Some must-try dishes include green chili, bison burgers, and Rocky Mountain oysters (yes, they’re a thing). For a unique dining experience, try The Fort in Morrison, which serves up traditional western fare like buffalo steaks and rattlesnake cakes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Colorado can be an expensive place to visit, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Consider camping instead of staying in a hotel, cooking your own meals instead of eating out, and visiting free attractions like state parks and museums. Also, be sure to check out Groupon or LivingSocial for deals on activities and tours.
Outdoor Adventures
Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and more. Some of the best outdoor destinations include Vail, Breckenridge, and Telluride for skiing and snowboarding, and the Maroon Bells near Aspen for hiking and photography.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado has a rich history, from the mining boom of the 1800s to the Native American heritage of the Southwest. Some must-see historical landmarks include the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and the Anasazi Heritage Center.
Family-Friendly Activities
Colorado is a great place for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. Take a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, visit the Denver Zoo, or go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, try one of these off-the-beaten-path experiences. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Rockies, go ghost hunting in Central City, or visit the UFO Watchtower in Hooper.
Natural Wonders
In addition to the national parks mentioned above, Colorado is home to many other natural wonders. Visit the Great Divide, where water flows to either the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, or see the colorful sandstone formations at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
Vibrant Nightlife
Colorado has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the best spots include the 1up Arcade Bar in Denver, the Belly Up in Aspen, and the Fox Theatre in Boulder.
Local Markets
Visit one of Colorado’s many farmers markets for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. Some of the best markets include the Boulder Farmers Market, the Cherry Creek Farmers Market in Denver, and the Telluride Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While Colorado may not have a coastline, it does have plenty of lakes and reservoirs for swimming and boating. Some popular spots include Lake Dillon, Horsetooth Reservoir, and Grand Lake. And of course, the mountains offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Cultural Immersion
Colorado has a rich cultural heritage, from the cowboy culture of the Wild West to the Native American traditions of the Southwest. Experience Colorado’s culture by visiting a rodeo, attending a powwow, or learning about the state’s mining history.
Art and Music Scene
Colorado is home to many talented artists and musicians, with a thriving arts scene in cities like Denver and Boulder. Visit the Denver Art Museum, catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, or attend the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.
Walking Tours
Explore Colorado’s cities and towns on foot with a guided walking tour. Some popular tours include the Denver Microbrew Tour, the Colorado Springs Downtown Walking Tour, and the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse Tour.
Architectural Marvels
Colorado has many impressive buildings and structures, from historic landmarks to modern marvels. Visit the Colorado State Capitol Building, the Denver Union Station, or the Air Force Academy Chapel for some architectural inspiration.
Historical Sites
Learn about Colorado’s rich history by visiting some of its many historical sites. Some must-see spots include the Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings, the Colorado Railroad Museum, and the Molly Brown House Museum.
Biking Routes
Colorado is a great place for biking, with scenic routes for all skill levels. Try the 42-mile Pikes Peak Greenway Trail in Colorado Springs, the 10-mile Cherry Creek Trail in Denver, or the 21-mile Rio Grande Trail in Aspen.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Colorado has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Try the Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, the Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores, or the Aspen Meadows Resort in Aspen.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Colorado offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Try bungee jumping, ziplining, or skydiving. Or, take on the rapids with a whitewater rafting trip down the Arkansas River.
Conclusion
Colorado is a state with so much to offer, from stunning natural wonders to vibrant culture and history. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in Colorado. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit.