You need to visit Colorado! The Rocky Mountains here are perfect for hiking, skiing, and spotting wildlife. There are also amazing places like the Garden of the Gods, where travellers can see huge red rocks. (Don’t forget to take pictures with them for your Instagram!) Colorado is an incredible state with so many beautiful places and fun activities for families.
Additionally, cities like Denver and Boulder have great restaurants, shops, and friendly people. In our opinion, the healthy lifestyle in Colorado offers many chances to stay active and enjoy the fresh air.
Top 15 Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences in Colorado
Now that you’re packed and ready, here are 15 amazing things to do in Colorado.
1. Garden of the Gods
Begin your Colorado adventure at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This park is known for its giant red rocks that rise up from the ground. The amazing fact is that the park is free!
Fun Things To Do
- Nature hikes
- Geology walks
- Wellness retreats
2. Manitou Springs
After Garden of the Gods, visit the charming town of Manitou Springs. This historic town has been around since 1872. The town is also known for its beautiful mineral springs. Moreover, travellers can bring a water bottle and fill it up at one of the spring fountains for free.
What You Can Find
- Crystal shops
- Antique stores
- Art galleries
- Cosy cafes
3. Cave of the Winds
Near Pikes Peak, there’s a place called Cave of the Winds. It’s a beautiful underground cave system. Travellers can explore it by themselves or take a guided tour. For a spooky experience, try the “Lantern Tour.” Here, travellers will explore the cave with only a lantern for light.
Activities for Kids
There are also many fun activities for kids, so families can explore while kids have fun!
- Climbing walls
- Rope courses
- Zip lines
4. Maroon Bells
No getaway to Colorado is complete without seeing Maroon Bells. These famous mountains rise 14,000 feet above Maroon Creek Valley. It’s a dream spot for nature lovers, with trails for hiking and camping.
Moreover, travellers can spend their nights around a campfire under these beautiful peaks. Imagine the stars!
5. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Travellers can experience the thrill of walking on the Royal Gorge suspension bridge, one of the tallest bridges globally, suspended over 950 feet above the Arkansas River. Once across, there’s a lot more to explore.
Adrenaline Rush
- Enjoy the Royal Rush sky coaster
- Take a ride in the aerial gondola
- Zipline across the cavern
6. Ride the Royal Gorge Train
If heights aren’t your thing, explore the Royal Gorge by train. The Royal Gorge Route Railroad takes you on a 24-mile journey through the canyon with stunning views.
What It Includes
The two-hour round trip includes:
- Tunnels
- Bridges
- Opportunity for travellers to enjoy a delicious lunch on the train while taking in the scenery.
7. Colorado Ghost Towns
For history and adventure, visit Colorado’s ghost towns, such as Teller City, Capitol City, Independence, Ashcroft, and St. Elmo. These well-preserved towns sprang up during the Gold Rush of the 1800s.
What You Can Do
- Explore over 40 buildings
- Take pictures in old saloons and hotels
8. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique part of Colorado. Long ago, this place was a huge lake, but now it’s filled with massive sand dunes. Moreover, travellers should also visit Star Dune, the tallest sand dune in North America, towering over 741 feet high.
Things To Enjoy
- Biking
- Hiking
- Sand sledding
- Sandboarding
9. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a special place where ancient cliff dwellings were built by the ancestral Pueblo people more than 1,000 years ago. On guided tours, visitors can explore these incredible buildings and numerous other archaeological sites.
Strong shoes are essential for tourists to get the most out of this retreat. Stair climbing is common, and wearing comfy shoes will make it go more smoothly. Although the climb can be difficult, it’s worthwhile to explore this historic place properly.
Moreover, there are also beautiful views and interesting wildlife to see.
10. Colorado Children’s Museum
For indoor fun, visit the Colorado Children’s Museum in Denver. Designed for kids aged 10 and under, the museum offers interactive play areas, water experiments, an art studio, and a mock fire station. It’s an educational and entertaining experience that’s both fun and affordable.
11. Candy Factory
Don’t miss the Denver Hammond’s Candies Factory tour if your children have a sweet tooth. This free tour demonstrates the production of lollipops, candy canes, and other candies. Tours run every 30 minutes, and the factory store offers a chance to buy the delicious treats you see being made.
Moreover, for special occasions, rent a party room for a private tour and VIP candy experience.
12. Denver Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is home to over 15,000 fish, mammals, and plants. Dine surrounded by a 150,000-gallon aquarium and enjoy exhibits showcasing desert, rainforest, and shallow water wildlife.
Moreover, guests can scuba or snorkel in some of the aquariums! But make sure you make a pre-booking for that.
13. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park offers many miles of absolutely beautiful scenery and wildlife. Elk, mule deer, and other bird species can be found in the park. Drive up Trail Ridge Road for stunning alpine views, and visit the Alpine Visitor Center for more incredible sights.
What You Can Do
- Hiking
- Biking
- Camping
- Horseback riding
14. Grand Lake
Grand Lake is a pretty mountain town on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Here, travellers can do fun activities like kayaking and fishing. There are also many trails around the lake that travellers can explore. While walking, they can watch for wildlife like pelicans and ducks.
If travellers are with their families, they will absolutely love this destination!
15. Dinosaur National Monument
Travelers can take guided tours of the quarry where dinosaur fossils have been found. They can also hike through the large wilderness trails. The area has rivers and creeks that are great for exploring. You can also learn about different types of creatures that live there.
These activities and destinations make Colorado a top choice for vibey holidays. Whether you’re hiking majestic peaks, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying thrilling rides, Colorado offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Helpful Tips for a Safe and Green Getaway
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your journey is safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly.
Packing the Right Clothes
Packing the right clothes for your retreat to Colorado is essential because the weather can vary greatly depending on the season.
Summers
The weather is usually mild during the summer, averaging around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. You should pack short-sleeved shirts, light jackets, and comfortable pants.
Winters
In the winter, temperatures drop significantly, ranging from 16 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to pack heavy coats, gloves, hats, and proper footwear like insulated boots. Layering is the key to dressing for temperature changes throughout the day.
Additionally, don’t forget to pack a modest medical kit that includes necessary items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription drugs you or your family may require.
Staying Connected with Electronics
Your electronics, especially your smartphone, are crucial for a smooth travel experience. Your smartphone can store all your hotel information, help you navigate with GPS, and keep you in contact with family and friends. So, pack chargers and, if possible, a portable power bank to keep your devices charged on the go.
Moreover, if you plan to visit remote areas, it’s smart to learn how to create a hotspot on your phone. This allows you to access the internet and stay connected even in places where Wi-Fi might not be available. Travellers can create a hotspot using either an iOS or Android smartphone.
Eco-Friendly Travel
Traveling in an eco-friendly way helps protect Colorado’s stunning landscapes. Here are some tips to minimize your environmental impact:
- Pack Light: Bringing fewer items means less weight, which can reduce fuel consumption if you’re driving.
- Reusable Items: This will reduce waste and help you stay hydrated and prepared without relying on disposable items.
- Share and Reuse: Share items like towels and use them for multiple purposes during your retreat. For example, a towel can be used as a blanket or picnic cloth.
- Plan Your Route: Plan your travel route carefully to avoid unnecessary stops and backtracking. This saves fuel and reduces pollution. Additionally, it frees up more time for you to explore your locations without worrying about driving nonstop.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Select eco-friendly lodgings that follow sustainable guidelines. In Colorado, many hotels and resorts value eco-friendly practices.
You can make sure that your journey to Colorado is safe, entertaining, and environmentally responsible by paying attention to these pointers. Cherish your journey while contributing to the protection of this incredible state.
FAQs
What Does Colorado Have A Lot Of?
Colorado has many mountains (around 4053). The state also has many national parks, forests, and recreation areas, making it a great place for outdoor sports like skiing, hiking, and biking. Colorado is also rich in minerals.
Is Colorado Known for Anything?
Yes, Colorado is known for many things. It has world-famous ski resorts like Aspen and Vail. The state has beautiful places like the Rocky Mountains, the Great Sand Dunes, and the Maroon Bells. There are also big music and arts festivals, like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Colorado Shakespeare Festival.
What’s the Best Thing About Living in Colorado?
The best thing about living in Colorado is that you can hike, ski, and bike in some of the most beautiful places in the country. The state also has great healthcare, schools, and jobs, especially in tech and clean energy. People here enjoy a high quality of life.
Where is the Prettiest Place to Live in Colorado?
Many people think Durango is the prettiest place to live in Colorado. Fort Collins is also very beautiful, with pretty scenery. Colorado Springs is another pretty place with a small, friendly feel and stunning mountain views.
What Fun Things Can Families Do in Colorado?
Families can have lots of fun in Colorado. You can go to the Denver Zoo, visit the Children’s Museum of Denver, or take a train ride on the Durango & Silverton Railroad. There are also many parks where you can hike, fish, and camp together.
When is the Best Time to Visit Colorado?
The best time to visit Colorado depends on what you want to do. Winter is great for skiing, summer is perfect for hiking and camping, fall has beautiful leaves and cool weather, and spring has blooming flowers and fewer crowds.
How Can You Travel Green in Colorado?
Hiking, biking, and walking are good ways to see the state and help the environment. Also, remember to leave no trace and keep nature clean.
What Special Events Happen in Colorado?
Colorado has many special events and festivals. Here are the names:
- Telluride Film Festival
- The Great American Beer Festival in Denver
- The Colorado Renaissance Festival
What Animals Live in Colorado?
In the mountains, travellers can see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Bears, moose, and foxes are also common. Bird watchers can see eagles, hawks, and many songbirds. The rivers and lakes have fish like trout and bass.
What Foods Should You Try in Colorado?
When you’re in Colorado, try some local foods. Rocky Mountain oysters are a unique dish. Green chilli, made with pork and green chillies, is a favourite. For something sweet, try Palisade peaches or Olathe sweet corn, which are grown locally.
How Do You Get Ready for High Altitude in Colorado?
Travellers need to take it easy at first and not do too much physical activity. Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness. Drinking water, avoiding alcohol, and eating light meals can help you feel better.
Can You Visit Colorado on a Budget?
There are free or cheap things to do, like hiking, visiting state parks, and exploring small towns. Many museums have discounted days. Staying in budget hotels, cooking some meals, and using public transportation can also save money.
