Although considered a winter destination because of its world-class ski slopes, I found there are plenty of things to do in Snowmass no matter the time of year you visit.

We don’t have mountains in Australia so being in the Rocky Mountains is like walking into fairy tale land.

It’s mesmerizing and awe inspiring, and I feel giddy each time I gaze at the snow covered jagged peaks. If you’re used to it, you might not get the same champagne buzz that I do.

Combine that with the colours of the bright blue sky, the alpine trees, the lush greenery and the rapidy rivers; I’m in total heaven. Get me out rolling amongst those wildflowers in bloom!

If you’re not sure what to do in Snowmass, below you will find some top attractions and activities for winter and summer…

Things to Do in Snowmass, Colorado in Summer

Below are some of the top attractions in Snowmass for a summer vacation. You can also do these attractions in the Spring and Fall.

I will share some winter things to do further down.

1. Go Bike Riding along the Roaring Forks River

20 miles sounds like a long bike ride when your popping on the helmet, but when the gradient is slightly downhill, it’s quite quick and effortless.

Thank goodness we did not have to return by bike. We had a bus to drive us back after a few campfire beers.

Blazing Adventures took us along the Rio Grande Trail, which follows the region’s historic old rail line, extends over 80 miles between Aspen and Glenwood Springs.

It followed the Roaring Fork Valley and River through the valley and offered incredible Snowmass mountain views. I even saw a deer peeking at us from behind a tree.

Half of our crew decided to do the white water rafting with Blazing Adventures along the Roaring Fork. We managed to find a clearing beside the road to spy on them.

I was gutted at first when they said the rapids were grade 4 as I would have chosen to do that one.

It turned out they were a bit more sedate, and no one fell overboard, so I was happy with my relaxing bike ride. We’ll be back to do those rapids another day.

2. Enjoy A Campfire and BBQ Evening at Rock Bottom Ranch

Colorado Rockies. BBQ. Craft Beer. Fire. Lassoing demonstration. Can you have a better experience in Colorado?

The bike ride and white water rafting finished at Rock Bottom Ranch, an 113-acre wildlife preserve.

Rock Bottom Ranch is a working farm where educational programs take place. Families can take farmyard tours (complete with goats, pigs, chickens, and ponies), sit down for a picnic, and then pick up sustainable agricultural products before heading home.

We’re looking forward to experiencing more of this when we return to Colorado with the kids.

This time, we had a delicious barbeque courtesy of Slow Groovin’ BBQ from Marble Colorado and craft beer from the Roaring Fork Beer Company located in Carbondale, Colorado.

There was a bit of lassoing thrown in around the campfire as well as a stunning sunset. These are the unique cultural flavours we travel to experience.

3. Take A Morning Hike to Yin Yang Lookout

I was surprised that only Laurence, Craig and myself got up early to do the hike to Yin Yang Lookout, which starts at the edge of Snowmass Base Village.

It was a quick 30-minute switchback hike which is part of the longer Rim Trail along the alpine ridgeline. It was such a great way to start the day, it shook out the hangover and energized me for the rest of the day.

The Yin Yang Lookout offers incredible 360-degree views of Snowmass, Mt. Daly, Capital Peak and down on Ziegler Reservoir (site of the Ice Age Discovery).

4. Visit the Anderson Ranch Arts Center and Gallery

We had an enjoyable visit to the Anderson Ranch Art Gallery.

I was impressed with the way this community has been created to help artists from around the world to come and hone their skills, to learn and collaborate with each other through many artistic expressions such as printing, ceramics, wood working, and sculpture.

The artists come from all around the world to attend workshops and stay at the ranch and its beautiful surrounds.

One of my favourite moments of the entire Snowmass trip was listening to one of The Hass Brothers, the current visiting artist, describe the intricate pattern and language system he created with the printing design.

No one understood a word he said, all we heard was intense passion and joy.

All I could say at the end was, “Wow. That was awesome.” And his artwork and strange alphabet thing he created were beautiful.

5. Drive the Independence Pass Scenic Drive

What a way to finish off an incredible Snowmass experience by taking the Independence Pass road back to Denver.

It’s quicker than the highway and far more beautiful.

Independence Pass is the highest paved mountain pass in Colorado at 12095ft and is one of the most spectacular drives in the US passing clear rivers, beautiful valleys, steep peaks, and extensive aspen forests.

It will take you over the Continental Divide, through the US’s highest incorporated city, to get to Leadville, a small US Town at a whopping 10,152ft high, where we stopped for lunch.

There are plenty of places to stop along the way to take photos.

6. Go for a Mountain Bike Ride

Snowmass is a mountain biker’s paradise. There are over 52 miles of biking trails in Snowmass Village, that offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy and scenic to technical and challenging.

With its stunning mountain views, lush forests, and pristine alpine lakes, Snowmass offers some of the most beautiful and exhilarating mountain biking rides in the country.

You can rent bikes and equipment from local outfitters and hit the trails on your own, or you can head to Snowmass Bike Park and enjoy 25 miles of trails within the park.

7. Check Out The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

If you’re looking for free things to do in Snowmass, then be sure to check out The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies who offer free hikes and activities throughout the week (and some that require a small fee).

You can join guided hiking and nature walks, or visit on Wednesdays to pick seasonal veggies from their local farmers.

They also having birding programmes and experiences, picnics on the preserves, and even yoga classes in the woods. Be sure to check out what they have on, as there is usually something happening every day.

8. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. You can ride through aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and passed mountain rivers and streams while taking in breathtaking panoramic views.

For a more unique experience, consider checking out Snowmass Creek Outfitters who offers Wild West inspired horseback rides through their ranch.

9. Try Whitewater Rafting

White water rafting is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that allows you to see the stunning natural beauty of the area in a thrilling and adventurous way.

The surrounding rivers, including the Roaring Fork and Arkansas River, offer a range of rapids from gentle ripples to heart-pumping Grade 4 rapids.

You can join guided rafting tours that include all necessary equipment and expert instruction.

10. Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

Although mostly used by skiiers in the winter, the Elk Camp Gondola is a number one attraction in Snowmass in the summer.

Taking a scenic gondola ride up the 8,475ft mountains is an excellent way to enjoy the stunning scenery and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

The leisurely 8-person gondola ride allows you to see people hiking the trails, mountain bikers soaring down the slops, and even people flying around the zip lines, before reaching the top of the Elk Camp Gondola where there are panoramic views for days.

Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view, or simply soak in the fresh mountain air. During the summer months, the mountains are alive with wildflowers, vibrant foliage, and abundant wildlife, making the gondola ride even more magical.

11. Try Your Hand At Disc Golf

If you’re looking for things to do in Snowmass with kids, then perhaps a game of disc golf at Snowmass Ski Resort’s Yellow Disc Golf Course would excite the whole family.

The course offers 18 challenging holes set against a stunning mountain backdrop, complete with streams, forests, and rocky outcroppings. You should note that the first hole on the course is up a steep mountain elevation gain.

The course is designed for players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players, and offers a fun and exciting way to explore the mountain landscape.

12. Visit the Snowmass Rodeo

The Snowmass Rodeo is a beloved summer tradition in Snowmass which allows visitors to see the unique western heritage of the area.

The rodeo features a variety of traditional cowboy events, including bull riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, barrel racing, and more.

This is an evening of family-friendly entertainment, complete with live music, food, and more.

The Rodeo is held every Wednesday night from June 21st – August 16th, 2023!

13. Watch the Snowmass Balloon Festival

Another top event to make sure you visit in the summer is The Snowmass Balloon Festival, which takes place every September.

The festival features a spectacular display of hot air balloons floating gracefully over the stunning mountain landscape, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable sight.

You can watch as the balloons inflate and lift off into the sky, or even take a ride in one themselves.

Other festival highlights include live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

14. Enjoy A Free Concert on Thursdays

Every summer on a Thursday evening, The Snowmass Free Concert Series opens up to showcase some exciting entertainment, from live music to theater performances.

Located on Fanny Hill, you can catch live entertainment with a beautiful mountain backdrop. The performances start at 5.30pm and run from June 15th until August 24th.

15. Try Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is another popular summer activity in Snowmass, Colorado. The area has many rivers, streams, and lakes filled with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, as well as other species like cutthroat and pike.

If you’ve never tried it before, you can join guided fishing tours led by expert guides who know the best spots and techniques to catch fish, or rent equipment and explore the waters on their own.

With its stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters teeming with fish, Snowmass is an ideal destination for any fly fishing enthusiast looking for a rewarding fishing experience.

Things to Do in Snowmass in the Winter

Below are some of the top things to do in Snowmass in the winter.

16. Go on Dog Sledding with Krabloonik Dogsled Rides

If you head just a few miles outside of Snowmass Village in the backcountry you can enjoy a thrilling and unique winter experience.

Krabloonik have been offering dog sledding rides since the early 70s. You can take a two-hour trip through the wilderness and backcountry of Snowmass, pulled by eight Alaskan huskies.

Each sled can carry two adults and one small child, plus the guide.

They offer three time slots per day, 11.00am, 1.15pm and 4.00pm. After the ride, enjoy a campfire stop with hot chocolate and warm soup.

17. Go Skiing or Snowboarding

What brings most people to Snowmass in the winter is skiing and snowboarding.

The Snowmass Ski Resort offers over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, including 91 trails, 21 lifts, and three terrain parks.

You can enjoy wide-open groomed runs, challenging mogul runs, and epic off-piste skiing and snowboarding.

With its breathtaking mountain scenery, world-class facilities, and thrilling runs, Snowmass is a premier destination for any skier or snowboarder looking for an unforgettable winter vacation.

18. Go Snow Tubing

Snow tubing is a fun and exhilarating way to experience the mountains of Snowmass. Head over to the Meadows at Elk Camp in Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, which features multiple lanes and a lift system to easily transport riders back to the top of the hill.

The tubing hill is open daily and during Ullr Nights, offering visitors a unique and exciting way to enjoy the mountain scenery under the stars.

19. Skate Around on The Snowmass Village Ice Rinks

Every winter, Snowmass opens up two free ice skating rinks in Snowmass Village.

There’s The Rink in Snowmass Base Village and one at Snowmass Village Ice Rink located at the Snowmass Town Park.

The rinks are open from 9.00 am – 9.00pm and even have free skate rentals.

20. Ride the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster

Another thrilling attraction in Snowmass in the winter is the Alpine Coaster, a rollercoaster ride that takes you from Elk Camp Restaurant down the mountain.

Strap yourself in and enjoy the thrill of the ride! The coaster is only open in the winter, from November 24th until April 16th.

Where To Stay in Snowmass: The Viceroy Hotel

There are many resorts in Snowmass, but we stayed at The Viceroy Snowmass, which is a beautiful hotel at the edge of Snowmass Village with stunning views out to the mountains, especially from their Eight K restaurant and deck.

The food and service at the hotel were exceptional and the suite rooms comfortable and luxurious. It was the biggest bathroom I’ve ever seen, and I loved it.

I rarely enjoy baths, but I filled this one up for a soak in some of the bath salts from the Viceroy Spa.

I was impressed with the Viceroy. It would be a great place for families to stay with kitchenettes in the rooms and plenty of facilities and a great outdoor pool.

It’s a ski in/ski out hotel, which I learned means you can walk out the door and straight onto the ski lifts.

Before You Go…

If I have one word of advice to you when visiting Snowmass, is never underestimate the effect the high altitude can have on your body when you drink alcohol.

I woke up after our first-night meet and greet with the worst hangover ever. I didn’t even drink much and was in bed fairly early. I felt disgusting! Not the way you want to kickstart your conference.

Luckily I pulled myself together and ensured I drank PLENTY of water for the next two nights. (My friend Kimmi did warn me about it)

A good tip Johnny Jet told us after the first evening was to always sleep with a humidifier on in high altitude places. They tend to hide them in the cupboard of your room (ahh that’s what that thing was), if not, always ask the front desk as they should have one to give to you.

It made a big difference to our sleep for the next two nights.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Snowmass, Colorado

We discovered in Snowmass that it’s the most popular place for Australians to go skiing in Colorado, and possibly the US.

We’re planning on going back to Snowmass for some time on our US road trip, in the summer, and in the winter. It’s always been my dream to have a white Christmas in Colorado; I’m hoping this year will be the dream come true moment.

We stayed in Snowmass for three nights for the Summit, which was hosted by Snowmass Tourism and organised by Gary Arndt.

We were busy in meetings for the two days and so didn’t even explore Snowmass in depth, but what I saw was enough to make me love it.

We also attended the Travel Influencers Summit which was held in Snowmass, and I was so excited to meet finally in person, travel blogging friends I’ve only ever interacted online with for years.

Dave and Deb from The Planet D, Laurence and Jess from Finding the Universe and Mike from Vagabondish were just as awesome in real life.

These guys were some of the first people we ever met in the travel blogging land.

My Aussie Instagram friend Lauren Bath was with us, and Matt Karsten from Expert Vagabond and Chris Christenson from Amateur Travel Podcast, who we met last year at the White House trip.

I made some cool new friends that I’ve only met in passing online, Johnny Jet, the man who knows everything about flying; Kevin O’Leary, husband and manager of Samantha Brown from the Travel Channel; Gary Arndt from Everything Everywhere who I hung out with years ago in Sydney.

Totally awesome people who we learned so much from and had fun getting to know, especially over a few late night cocktails made by the award winning bartender, Justin at the Viceroy.

Tell him we sent you for a Moscow Mule!

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The mile high city is known for its incredible mountain views, buzzing sports culture, fascinating museums and so much more.

There’s so much to see and do in a weekend trip to Denver, no matter your taste and style.

If you’re planning a weekend trip in the Mile High City, here are some ideas on how to make the most of your time.

Why visit Denver?

Denver maintains an air of the unknown; most visitors only see it on their way to or from the legendary ski resorts in the Colorado Rocky Mountains – if they see it at all.

It does not have the robust tourism industry of some other American cities, but it is a city with new surprises waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveler.

First and foremost, Denver is an active city. It is consistently ranked at the top of ‘healthiest city‘ lists and it is the capital city of the least obese state in the United States.

Denver residents love the outdoors and take advantage of the abundant sunshine and access to world class hiking trails, cycling, rafting, rock climbing, and skiing in their own backyard.

Not to mention it’s one of the highest cities in North America, measuring at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level (now you know why it’s called the Mile High City!).

Denver is a city that seeks adventure, and the best way to experience Denver is to get outside – run the trails, cycle the roads, or take a kayak down the rapids that run right through the middle of downtown.

A Weekend Trip to Denver Itinerary

Below you will find a suggested itinerary for a weekend trip in Denver. You can switch these around according to your taste and travel plans.

Day 1

Start your day with a visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens. This beautiful oasis in the heart of the city features over 50 gardens spread across 24 acres.

Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and enjoy the various flora on display.

After lunch, head to the Denver Art Museum. This world-renowned museum has an incredible collection of over 70,000 works of art from around the world.

Be sure to check out the Western art collection, which features pieces that highlight the history and culture of the American West.

Finish up your first day in Denver with a visit to the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This iconic outdoor venue is world-famous for its natural acoustics and stunning setting.

If you’re lucky enough to catch a concert while you’re in town, you’re in for a treat. If not, simply taking in the views is an experience in itself.

Day 2

On the second day, start your day with a trip to the Denver Zoo. This 80-acre zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world. Highlights include the Predator Ridge exhibit, the Primate Panorama, and the Tropical Discovery exhibit.

After lunch, head to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. This fascinating museum features a variety of exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. Be sure to check out the Planetarium and the IMAX theater while you’re there.

Finish up your weekend in Denver with a visit to Larimer Square. This historic block of Victorian buildings is home to some of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Take a stroll down the street and soak up the atmosphere.

If You Have More Time…

If the attractions in the above weekend itinerary don’t suit you, or if you have more time at your disposal, then perhaps you may like to visit some of these places…

• RiNo (River North Art District) – a vibrant district known for its street art murals and contemporary art galleries. If you’re an art lover, be sure to wander around this neighborhood. You can even pop into Denver Central Market and get some picnic items and head over to City Park for a picnic.
• Colorado State Capitol Building – there are free guided tours on weekdays, so if you plan your weekend to be a midweek trip, then consider taking a free tour of the building.
• Union Station – ok, you might think that it’s just a station, but it’s one of the prettiest train stations I’ve seen. If you’re traveling into downtown Denver from the airport, chances are you will find your way here anyway.
• 16th Street Mall – this is a mile long pedestrianised shopping street that’s a great place to do some shopping. If you’re looking for a shopping spree weekend, this is the place to go.
• Rocky Mountain National Park – this is the most popular day trip from Denver but it really does take a full day. There are so many hiking trails and monuments to see, you need to give it a full day.
• Great Sand Dunes National Park – home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. It’s a good 3 hour drive each way, so again, you will need to plan a full day to visit here.
• Pikes Peak and Gardens of the Gods – these are two attractions that showcase the beautiful mountainous nature around Denver but only within an hour drive of the city. If you’re planning a trip to Denver on route from Colorado Springs, this is something you can stop over and see on the way.
• Colorado Springs – known for its hot springs, though personally I think Colorado Springs is a destination that deserves a weekend trip in its own right.
• Keystone – this is a unique place. It’s an unincorporated community and is also home to the largest amount of ski terrain in Colorado, so if you’re planning a trip in the winter, you might want to consider a visit to Keystone afterwards.

Where to Eat in Denver

I’ll be the first to admit that Denver is not a food city; food is simply not one of the city’s strengths. But there are still plenty of unique Denver cuisines to try and restaurants to visit.

Mexican food and wild game are local specialties, with green chile being the quintessential Denver ingredient.

Rocky Mountain oysters (deep fried bull testicles) are a regional delicacy, though we usually only order it for our out-of-town guests to watch them squirm.

• Tocabe – An American Indian eatery where the speciality is fry bread tacos served with shredded bison. Topped with hominy and corn salsas, these tacos are unlike any others.
• Little Man Ice Cream – this is the best place to pick up some homemade ice cream. It’s open until midnight, so don’t feel like this is only a daytime thing.
• Cherry Cricket – A landmark dive bar/burger joint that stands as the lone blue-collar joint in the Tony Cherry Creek neighborhood. It is a favorite of locals and visitors alike and offers some of the best green chili cheeseburgers in town.
• Biker Jim’s – A food cart-turned-brick-and-mortar restaurant, Biker Jim’s serves up the best sausages in town. Meats like pheasant, bison, reindeer, wild boar, and rattlesnake are seasoned and stuffed into sausage before being topped with cream cheese and onions caramelized in Coca-Cola.
• Santiago’s – This ubiquitous Denver-based Mexican chain is a staple for city residents. The food is authentic, the prices are cheap, and the green chile is hot – just the way Denver locals like it.
• Buckhorn Exchange – Denver’s oldest restaurant proudly displays liquor license #0001. The Buckhorn Exchange specializes in wild game including ostrich, yak, elk, quail, bison, and alligator. The walls are covered with old western memorabilia and stuffed animal heads from all over the world.

Where to Drink in Denver

Denver is a beer city. It constantly ranks as one of the top beer cities in the nation and plays host to the Great American Beer Festival.

Even the former mayor (and current Colorado governor) is a former brew pub operator. Because of this, there are plenty of great places to drink beer in Denver.

• Wynkoop Brewing – The first brewpub in Denver, founded by now-Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper. Wynkoop offers great beers and an incredible atmosphere in an old brick warehouse in the heart of the Lodo neighborhood.
• Great Divide – One of the oldest and largest breweries in Denver and located right downtown. Tours and tap room tastings are offered every day of the week.
• Williams & Graham – Denver’s newest speakeasy offers a prohibition-style secretive drinking establishment (you enter through a faux-bookshelf door). Classy cocktails are served the old-fashioned way with hand chipped ice and panache from some of Denver’s best bartenders.

Best Area for a Night on the Town in Denver

Lodo is a popular place for the young and the young at heart. Bars like The Sports Column, The Tavern, and Jackson’s pack their rooftop patios after Colorado Rockies baseball games while locals and visitors alike fill the upscale clubs and restaurants that line the fronts of Blake and Market streets.

While Lodo has the densest concentration of bars, restaurants, and clubs, every neighborhood has its own commercial strip giving visitors a great way to get a taste of local Denver life.

Highland Square, Pearl Street, Colfax Avenue, Lohi, and South Broadway all provide refreshing local alternative nightlife scenes.

Where to Stay in Denver

The Brown Palace – An elegant and historic hotel in the heart of downtown. It has played host to presidents, royalty, and pop icons. For those such as myself who can’t afford the elegant prices that come with it, a visit to the afternoon tea ceremony in the lobby is a suitable alternative.

The Curtis – A much more affordable hotel that offers a unique and whimsical alternative to the high class of The Brown Palace. Each floor has a unique pop culture theme (think one hit wonders, sci-fi, etc.) that is carried through to all of the rooms.

The Crawford Hotel – A lovely four-star hotel with a perfect location in the heart of Denver’s CBD district. It’s sheek and modern, and primarily caters to couples over large groups. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re planning a romantic weekend in Denver.

We have also stayed at and loved the Aloft Hotel on 15th Street, the Hilton Homewood suites on 15th Street and the Ritz Carlton on Curtis Street.

Shopping in Denver

Larimer Square is a unique Victorian era street that offers boutique shopping and dining in Lodo. Just a few blocks away sits Rockmount Ranchwear, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Rockmount introduced the first Western style snap button shirts and is still the premier supplier of the iconic clothing to clients in Hollywood and all around the world.

Just down the street from Rockmount Ranchwear is The Tattered Cover Bookstore. Located in an old warehouse, the independent bookstore is one of the largest of its kind.

It’s an incredibly atmospheric store with ancient hardwood floors, exposed bricks, and plenty of comfy chairs and hidden corners to settle into with a good book.

Best Time of Year to Visit Denver

Late summer in Denver is spectacular. In early September, the city is still in full on summer-mode with residents flocking to the outdoor cafes, rooftop patios and the parks in the largest public park system in the United States.

But within a short drive, the mountains are beginning to show the signs of autumn. This is the time when the aspen leaves flash their vibrant gold hues, lighting up the slopes of the Rocky Mountains.

Visiting in late summer provides visitors with the best of summer and autumn in Colorado.

Getting To and Around Denver

Denver is incredibly isolated – the closest big cities are Phoenix and Dallas which are both more than 14 hours away by car.

Thankfully, Denver has one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States. Three major airlines use Denver International Airport as a hub – United, Frontier, and Southwest. This competition helps keep the prices in and out of Denver relatively cheap.

When it comes to getting around, Denver has a comprehensive bus system and an expanding light rail and commuter rail network, but the most fun form of public transportation is by bike, which you can source from Denver’s community bicycles.

Denver was the first city in the United States to find sustained success using the bicycle as a large-scale form of public transportation, and bicycle sharing stations have been popping up all over the city since.

For just a few dollars, guests can pick up a bicycle at one of the check-out stations and ride it all over town before checking it back in to another station.

You can also get an Uber from place to place, though this is more expensive.

Final Thoughts on a 2-Day Denver Itinerary

I love Denver because the city seeks adventure.

Work comes second to play as residents take ‘powder days’ off from work to hit the slopes on exceptionally good snow days, pack their backpacks for extended camping trips, or strive to summit every one of Colorado’s 53 14,000 foot (4260 meter) mountains.

Denver offers the best of both worlds with all the amenities of the big city and the Rocky Mountains as its backyard.

I hope this guide gives you some inspiration for how to plan your weekend getaway in Denver!

There are many, many things to do in Denver, Colorado. It’s one if the fast growing areas for millennial migration in the US so the city is quite hip, edgy, and happening.

It’s walkable, has some of the friendliest and happiest people in America, and is surrounded by the mesmerizing Rocky Mountains and Colorado River – my favourite place to explore in the US.

We visited Denver and the Rocky Mountain National Park on our road trip in 2016.

We loved it then, but noticed huge improvements on our return trip, and love it even more now. It totally suits our lifestyle vibe.

If you’re not sure what to do in Denver, then keep reading to discover some of the best attractions and places to visit…

Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, relaxing bars and restaurants, or something fun and unusual, you’ll find all this and more with the follow attractions in Denver.

1. Check Out 16th Street Mall

We stayed around the 16th Street Mall area, which is the touristy area of the city. I liked that the mile-long pedestrian street was walkable, but also has the free tram going up and down if you want to jump on that.

There are plenty of restaurants on 16th street and the streets running off it.

Next time we visit, we plan to stay in a vacation rental in one of the trendy neighborhoods we heard so much about like RiNo (River North), Highlands, and Five Points.

2. Dine at Stout Street Social

We LOVED this restaurant on 14th street across the road from the Convention Centre, mostly for the delicious roasted brussel sprouts and the gluten free beer.

The receptionist at our hotel recommended this as the place to go and the sprouts as the dish of the century.

You rarely hear that about brussel sprouts so curiously, we ordered and were blown away by the flavour. They’re roasted in mint, cilantro, truffle-chile glaze with a bit of snap, crackle, pop.

I’ll let you know the recipe once I can replicate it at home.

The salmon quinoa salad was also the bomb. We visited twice and ordered the same thing both times!

3. Admire Union Station

So we fell in love with Union Station. It was our first experience of Denver stepping off from the train from Denver Airport.

It’s the nicest train station I’ve been too, which is one reason we’ve out it on our things to d in Denver list.

Tastefully refurbished, clean and modern with soaring 65-foot ceilings and enormous arched windows filling the room with sunlight. There are many great restaurants, cafes, comfy waiting couches, and even a bar with foosball table.

We just love how quiet and well behaved everyone is having drinks, quiet conversations and playing games.

Reflecting back on Central Station in Sydney makes me shudder – ugly, drab with too many drunken yobbos.

We returned there many times for something to eat and to hang out. It has such a pleasant vibe.

4. Drink Coffee at Pigtrain Coffee

Our first coffee in Denver was of decent size. Now that’s a large.

One morning, Craig and I were in fits of giggles at the gigantic coffee cups people were walking around fueling up with. America’s small is equivalent to an Australian large (and much cheaper!)

I can’t say the coffee is as good as Australia, but it was way better than I remembered and most places had almond milk!

Read More: 19 Essential things to know before visiting the USA

5. Attend the Chalk Art Festival

Durin the summer in Denver, there are always festivals and events happening. While we were there, the Chalk Art Festival was on.

Artists come out and create their designs on the roads around Larimer Square. There was music and food and drinks and once again everyone is civilized and the vibe upbeat and happy.

It was fun checking out all the incredible artwork.

6. Hire a bike and tour Denver

Denver is a flat city so perfect for bike riding. The city makes it easy for you with their share bike program, Denver Bcycle.

here are multiple bike stations set up throughout the city. You can grab a B map or download the app, pop in your credit card and rent a bike to explore.

Very important to note – for $9 a day you get unlimited bike rides within the 24 hours, but there is a catch.

You can only take the bike for 30 minute periods. So plan carefully.

All you do is return the bike to a bike stand and then take a different one out. That way you can still keep riding but you won’t get charged overtime rates.

We hired a bike from the bottom of the pedestrian bridge at 16th street on the way to Highlands and cycled to the confluence of the Platte and Cherry Creek River, where the settlers first started Denver.

They would follow the Cherry Creek from Kansas and until they arrived at the Confluence to look for gold – and so Denver began. 

After checking out that slice of history, and the children swimming in the small rapids, we took the Cherry Creek bike trail .. all the way to Cherry Creek mall. it was an easy and fun bike ride.

We then rode home, go changed, and took more bikes out to ride down 14th street – always great fun with all the traffic, back to Highlands for drinks at Linger.

7. Wander Around Civic Center Park

We couldn’t not pay a visit to the Colorado State Capitol and stand on the mile high steps for the obligatory photos.

It’s exactly a mile high. Across the road is Civic Center Park, which is green space bordered by the State Capitol, City and County building and the Denver Art Museum. It’s the space for frequent city events. 

We received notice too late one day that there were food trucks happening on a Wednesday lunch time.

Civic Center Eats offers food and music from Tues- Thursday from 11am-2pm during the summer. Bummed we missed it!

But, we did learn of The People’s Fair happening on the weekend that we ducked down to have a look at. Music was playing, food was cooking, and plenty of arts and craft stalls, and local craft beer.

I bought a crystal and checked out a photographer who’s photos were amazing.

8. Explore The Highlands Neighborhood

The Highlands neighbourhood is sought after as a place to live by the millennials. If you’re looking for hip restaurants, bars and boutique stores, this is the place. It’s only a short walk over the bridge to downtown.

We had a brief hour or two there. We’re keen to check it out more when we return.

9. Explore Linger

When multiple people tell you Linger is the best place to eat and drink in Denver you go. Second to that was Root Down which is owned by the same people. We didn’t get a chance to visit there – next time.

Linger has a rooftop bar which is the place to go, especially for happy hour Mon-Fri 4pm-6:30pm – $5 cocktails, $4 beers and $5 appetizers.

The tacos and sweet potato waffle fries were the bomb! Make sure you have your ID – I was carded and almost not served because I did not have my ID.

I had to let the manager know what my birthdate was to prove I was in fact 40. I am flattered, but really, I’d love for common sense and good judgment to return to society.

Just below Linger is Little Man Ice Cream – a gigantic milk bottle, you can’t miss that has ice cream people line up for hours for.

Our friend, Don gave us the inside tip for this one. I’m not an ice cream lover so I headed up to the bar instead.

10. Drink Ales at Amato’s Ale House

After happy hour at Linger, we popped down the road to Amato’s Ale House for dinner. No gluten free beer for me to sample, but a delicious bison burger and happy hour red wine made me happy!

Some other tips for restaurants for the Highlands area Don gave us:

• Lola (Mexican and fish – not your standard taco or burrito. Higher end, very good)
• Root Down
• Central Bistro  Always a good meal. Modern, but not trendy. If the weather’s okay, sitting on their patio is nice with a good view of the city
• Avanti  Very moderate prices. It’s a food hall concept with individual restaurants and a main dining area along with a couple of bars – killer deck views of downtown

11. Check Out The Music Scene

Denver has an excellent music scene. While it might not be as famous as Austin, Nashville, or New Orleans, there is a growing folk/Americana movement with groups like Paper Bird and singer/songwriters such as Danielle Ate The Sandwich and Patrick Dethlefs.

Additionally, the indie scene is healthy with bands like Tennis and Hindershot gaining traction.

Denver has also been a launch pad for larger, mainstream acts as well. Groups such as The Fray, One Republic, The Lumineers, and The Flobots have all found international fame after recognizing popularity locally in Denver.

Visitors can check out the music scene first hand by stopping by one of the many independent music venues throughout the city. 

The Hi Dive, The Walnut Room, Larimer Lounge, and The Marquis Theater are all great places to check out the local music scene.

Alternatively, visitors can turn their radio dial to 1340 am for Open Air Colorado, a Colorado Public Radio station that plays local, independent music.

12. Take a Day Trip to the Colorado Rockies

Rocky Mountain National Park is the most accessible national park from Denver and it couldn’t be more different from the city experience.

Visitors are treated to majestic mountain views, fresh Rockies air, unique wildlife encounters, and amazing hiking opportunities amongst the alpine wilderness.

Icy glaciers, glassy lakes, and the iconic Longs Peak all compete for attention along the continental divide in one of the crown jewels of America’s National Park system.

Don’t forget to check out Colorado Springs too, especially if you’re visiting in the winter.

13. Attend the Great American Beer Festival

Denver is a beer town. Part of this reputation comes from the host role the city plays to the Great American Beer Festival each year.

The festival is the brewing industry’s top competition and public tasting session and there is no other place in the world where you can find more beers on tap.

Every October, More than 450 breweries come together to pour more than 2200 different beers to thirsty festival goers.

Visitors can find EVERY type of beer at the festival and many types they never even knew existed.

14. Have Brunch at Snooze

Snooze is the place for brunch. Someone from our community recommended we go there and we chose it as our last place to eat in Denver before we jumped on the train to fly home.

I had the Snooze Spuds Deluxe – A heaping portion of hash browns, covered with melted cheddar & jack cheese, scallions, avocado and mushrooms, which was delicious and Craig the Spring Greens quinoa salad.

15. Explore the Capitol Hill Area

Capitol Hill is a vibrant and funky neighborhood southeast of downtown that is also one of Denver’s most diverse.

Around the gold-domed state capitol building, stately 19th century mansions mingle with mid-century apartment buildings and punk-rock clubs line the same streets as high-end restaurants.

The neighborhood is flanked by two of Denver’s best parks, the Greek Revival styled Civic Center Park and the spooky Cheesman Park – which still contains many bodies buried underneath from its past life as a cemetery.

16. Dine at Mercantile

We stopped here for lunch one day when nowhere else really grabbed us. “Let’s go back to Union St Station.”

The Mercantile was another recommendation from Facebook. Delicious! We had the soup and  salad – fresh, wholesome, and a decent price.

You can even stay at the luxurious Crawford Hotel within the station.

Our friend Don told us a lot about the history of Denver, one fact being that is the hotel is named after his friend, preservationist Dana Crawford, who was instrumental in the revitalization of much of Lower Downtown.

She’s the reason Denver is such a beautiful looking town with preserved brick warehouse style buildings.

The location of Union St Station is premium being right near the trendy Highlands and the Rockies stadium! We attended a game in 2006 and loved it.

It’s such a beautiful stadium with those views of the Rockies – plenty of craft beer and game fever in the pubs that surround it too.

17. Go Shopping in Larimer Square

Fairy lights strung between the trees overhead and diners spilling over onto the street pavers, Larimer Square is a pretty place to be and although we didn’t get there at night, I think it would be a perfect spot to hang out. (This is an area Dana Crawford revitalised!)

We had a coffee at Market St on Larimer, which was a good spot to hang out if you want to do some work online.

Coffees weren’t amazing but they were big.

Larimer Square is a unique Victorian era street that offers boutique shopping and dining in Lodo.

Just a few blocks away sits Rockmount Ranchwear, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Rockmount introduced the first Western style snap button shirts and is still the premier supplier of the iconic clothing to clients in Hollywood and all around the world.

Just down the street from Rockmount Ranchwear is The Tattered Cover Bookstore. Located in an old warehouse, the independent bookstore is one of the largest of its kind.

It’s an incredibly atmospheric store with ancient hardwood floors, exposed bricks, and plenty of comfy chairs and hidden corners to settle into with a good book.

18. Check out the Red Rocks Amphitheater

The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a world famous concert venue located in the hills above Denver. Towering red rock formations create a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics.

Some enterprising individuals added seating and a stage to turn it into one the most unique concert venues in the world.

The stage has seen countless legendary performers including The Beatles, U2, and Jimi Hendrix. Though a concert is the best way to experience the venue, it is open to the public for free when there aren’t any concerts.

19. Go Hiking in Mount Evans

Mount Evans in Colorado is home to 53 14,000 foot (4260 meter) mountains and is often referred to as the ‘Roof of America’.

Though you can summit every one of Colorado’s ‘14ers’ via hiking and climbing, Mount Evans offers the unique distinction of offering a road to the top.

Visitors can hop in their car and summit one of the tallest mountains in North America with their automobile.

Along the way there are numerous scenic overlooks and plenty of wildlife including the famous Mountain Goats who are always willing to pose for a picture.

20. Relax in Confluence Park

Confluence Park is located right downtown Denver, confluence park offers a scene of nature in the middle of the city.

Located at the confluence of the Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, Confluence Park offers a kayaking course, city and mountain views, running and cycling trails, and the flagship REI store, a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

21. Take the Kids to the Water Parks and Theme Parks

Denver is home to some of the most thrilling water parks and theme parks in the United States.

For thrill-seekers, head to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, which boasts over 50 rides and attractions, or Water World, which features more than 40 water-based rides and activities.

For a more laid-back experience, head to Lakeside Amusement Park, which has been entertaining families for over a century, or Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, which combines aquatic exhibits with amusement park rides.

22. Spend a Day at the Museums

Denver has many world-class museums to explore. If you’re looking for things to do in Denver on a rainy day, then this is the number one activity.

Head over to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which has exhibits dating back to prehistory, including dinosaur bones that go back to millions of years.

It also has some real centuries old Egyptian mummies and a world wildlife exhibit. You could easily spend a full day here and not see it all.

If you have children, take them to the Children’s Museum of Denver, which combines play and education in an exciting way.

If you want to learn about aviation history, head to the Wings Over Rockies Air and Space Museum which is famous for its realistic flight simulators.

For something more unique, head to the Molly Brown House Museum, the home of an HMS Titanic Survivor.

At the top of Lookout Mountain, you’ll find the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, who is one of the most famous cowboys in the USA.

23. Drive the Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the USA, which offers stunning mountain views for 28 miles.

The byway stretches from Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans, which stands at 14,264 feet above sea level, making it the highest paved road in the USA.

You will encounter a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to barren alpine tundra, as well as hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that require caution and careful driving.

The journey is worth it, though, as the panoramic views from the summit are truly awe-inspiring.

Driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is an unforgettable experience for any traveler visiting Colorado.

24. Catch a Show at The Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is a massive complex that houses multiple theaters and venues, including the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Boettcher Concert Hall, and the Buell Theatre.

Here you can watch a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to symphonies to ballets.

Beyond the world-class performances, the complex itself is a stunning architectural marvel, with sleek modern design and impressive acoustics.

25. Relax in the Denver Botanic Gardens

This 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city boasts over 50 gardens and collections, including a Japanese Garden, a Water Garden, an Alpine Rock Garden, and a Rose Garden.

You can enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens, stroll along meandering paths, and take in the sights and scents of the plants and flowers.

The gardens also offer numerous educational programs and events, making it a great spot for families and groups.

26. See the Animals at Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, penguins, and elephants, as well as rare and endangered species like black rhinos and clouded leopards.

You can attend animal feeding demonstrations, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals in interactive exhibits.

Beyond the animals, the zoo offers beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and a train ride that winds through the park.

27. Take a Day Trip to Boulder

Just 30 minutes away, Boulder is a beautiful city nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

You can spend a day hiking in the mountains, exploring the charming downtown area full of unique shops and restaurants, or take a tour of the famous Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory.

Boulder has a laid-back vibe and endless opportunities for adventure, making it the ideal day trip from Denver.

28. Watch a Sporting Event

Denver is a great city for sports fans, with a variety of professional teams to watch throughout the year.

Catch a Broncos football game at the iconic Empower Field at Mile High, or cheer on the Rockies baseball team at Coors Field.

If basketball is more your style, head to the Ball Arena, formerly the Pepsi Center and check out the Denver Nuggets in action.

For hockey fans, the Colorado Avalanche play at the same venue.

No matter what sport you’re into, there’s always something happening in Denver!

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

Denver was up there on the list when we were looking for destinations to live in the USA. I was concerned about the chilly winters, but locals have shared with us that Denver doesn’t get too brutal.

It experiences winter for sure, but the days are warm and sunny. When the snow falls it melts away quite quickly, but there’s plenty of snow dumping for you a further 5,000 feet high and close by.

The weather we had during our week stay in Denver during the beginning of summer were quite perfect.

We visited to attend a three-day conference in Snowmass and decided to stay a few extra days in Denver.

We just can’t travel all that way to America for just a few days, the jet lag is killer enough.

But we’re glad we were able to get out and explore some of these top Denver attractions.

I hope this guide helped you plan your visit to Denver and gave you some inspiration for what to see and do there.

Where to Stay in Denver

The Brown Palace – An elegant and historic hotel in the heart of downtown. It has played host to presidents, royalty, and pop icons. For those such as myself who can’t afford the elegant prices that come with it, a visit to the afternoon tea ceremony in the lobby is a suitable alternative.

The Curtis – A much more affordable hotel that offers a unique and whimsical alternative to the high class of The Brown Palace. Each floor has a unique pop culture theme (think one hit wonders, sci-fi, etc.) that is carried through to all of the rooms.

The Crawford Hotel – A lovely four-star hotel with a perfect location in the heart of Denver’s CBD district. It’s sheek and modern, and primarily caters to couples over large groups. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re planning a romantic weekend in Denver.

We have also stayed at and loved the Aloft Hotel on 15th Street, the Hilton Homewood suites on 15th Street, which were great affordable Denver accommodation options.

We loved our more lux stay at the Ritz Carlton on Curtis Street. The rooms were spacious with separate living areas, service was exceptional, locatuion great, and we loved the premier lounge with free happy hour every day!

Popular Denver Tours

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No matter when you visit, there will always be plenty of fun things to do in Colorado. From snow-capped peaks dusted with perfect powder to pristine hiking trails and stunning lakes and rivers, you could spend a lifetime here and not get bored.

In this post, I’m going to cover 10 of the best outdoor Colorado activities, including a few that you may not have thought of during your trip planning. Let’s get started.

Things To Do in Colorado In The Summer

Let’s start with the best things to do in Colorado in summer (or the warmer months of the year).

While visitors come here throughout the year, summer is still the peak season for travel.

1. Go Fly Fishing

What did I say about listing unique experiences in the state?

The fly fishing in Colorado is world-class, and despite its popularity among anglers, there are so many great spots throughout the state that you can still have entire stretches of river all to yourself.

Blessed with river canyons and lakes filled with beautiful rainbow, brown and brook trout, people travel from all over the world to experience the fly fishing here.

There are quite a few fly fishing outfitters and guides around the state, with many of them leaving from Denver, so even if you don’t have your own fly rod, or you’ve never tried your hand at fly fishing, there will be someone to guide you and show you the ropes.

Some of the best spots for fishing in Colorado include the South Platte River, Arkansas River, and North Delaney Butte Lake. And check out this half-day fly fishing trip in Estes Park.

If you’re planning to visit Colorado for fishing, make sure to pack a good pair of waders with you as well as there are quite a few wider rivers and they’ll help you to get access to the fish that are holding in deeper pools.

2. Go ATVing

There are so many breathtaking trails and mountain paths in Colorado that it’s no surprise these are frequented by adrenaline-pumping ATV tours.

Quite the opposite of the peaceful act of casting a line over glass-calm water, ripping up and down dusty river canyons and over massive boulders will get your adrenaline pumping and give you a good balance of outdoor activities on your trip to the state.

You can join a tour, or rent an ATV for yourself and head out solo.

Some of the best places in Colorado (where there are a lot of ATV outfitters) include Salida, Estes Park, Oray, and Lake City.

3. Join a Marijuana Tour

There was once a time when this bushy green plant was reserved to dimly lit basements and secret mountain grow operations.

But today it’s a booming business in tourism, entertainment, and most importantly, medicine.

Join a tour and check out a massive grow operation, sample some of the plants (if you wish), and have a truly unique experience that will give double meaning to Colorado’s popular moniker “the highest state”.

4. Hit the Colorado Hiking Trails

Okay, let’s get a back down to earth with a more common activity.

While this may be a bit more “normal” than ATVing and touring marijuana factories, the hiking in Colorado is just as exhilarating.

There are countless trekking routes, multi-day hikes and quick day walks throughout the state. You could spend a lifetime walking the trails here and never see them all.

Some of the most popular Colorado day hikes include the Highline Loop in Dolores, the Keyhole Route at Longs Peak, and The Black Canyon of Gunnison.

If you want to head out on a multi-day excursion, consider the Colorado Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, or the Lost Creek Wilderness Loop.

5. Soak in Hot Springs

Whether you spent the day fly fishing, ATVing or hiking, you’ll probably be looking for a place to relax at the end of a long day of exploration.

There is no better place to unwind than in a Colorado hot spring.

There are loads of geothermic baths throughout the state, but my favorites are always the ones that look as natural as possible, with real stones, stunning views, and bubbling water.

The best hot springs include Conundrum in Aspen, Ouray, the Pagosa Springs in Piedra River and the Yampah Vapor Caves at Glenwood Springs.

6. White Water Rafting

This is still one of my favorite outdoor Colorado activities.

I love that you can be slowly cruising on slow-moving water one minute, and then blasting over rapids the next. Colorado is easily one of the best places in the world for white water rafting.

There are so many places to visit in Colorado offering varieties of rapids throughout the state and with the dramatic views of river canyon walls towering above you while you crash and tumble over the fast-moving water.

It’s hard to beat white water rafting here if you’re looking for a rush.

For some of the best rapids, check out Animas River Whitewater Rafting near Durango, Arkansas River Whitewater Rafting running through Buena Vista, Salida and Cañon City.

Or the Browns Canyon National Monument, or Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting rapids near Idaho Springs.

Things To Do in Colorado In The Winter

Now that we’ve listed a few of the top things to do in Colorado during summer, it’s time to flip to the winter months, when the Colorado mountains come alive and turns into a winter wonderland.

7. Hit The Slopes

Even though I snowboarded a lot when I was younger, I’m still not good enough for many of the black diamond slopes in Colorado.

But that’s the joy of hitting the Colorado mountains here, there is a run for all levels.

The Colorado ski resorts are as varied as the difficulty level of the slopes, with some luxury top-end options, as well as more budget-friendly ones.

If you’re a beginner or need to brush up on your skills, almost all of the resorts have professional guides to help you out as well.

You can start on the bunny hills and slowly move your way up, or if you’re already a pro, you can hit the powdery black diamond runs right away.

If you’re looking for a ski-in, ski-out experience, the 10th Mountain Division Huts and Moving Mountains were listed as some of the best in the world by The Travel Channel.

Other honorable mentions for the best ski resorts include Breckenridge Ski Resort, Vial, Snowmass, and of course Aspen.

8. Hop on a Snowmobile

If you’ve never experienced the rush of gliding over powder snow at 50 miles per hour, then you really have to try snowmobiling.

Coming from Canada, this is something we did a lot in the winter, but I’ve still yet to experience it in Colorado.

That doesn’t mean that it’s not a great place for it. If you have experience, there are a few outfitters that will allow you to rent a snowmobile and head out on your own, otherwise, you can join part of a tour.

Some popular spots include Salida, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Almont, and Keystone.

9. Go Snow Tubing

Another favorite pastime of mine from my childhood in the mountains of Canada, snow tubing is one of the best things to do in Colorado with kids.

Just like the ski slopes, there are easy bunny slopes, as well as some steeper and faster-moving hills.

Generally, when you go snow tubing, you pay for a day pass and you can use the lifts to go up and down as many times as you want. It’s exhausting and your butt might hurt by the end, but it’s so much fun.

Some popular places in Colorado for snow tubing include Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Fraser, Frisco, Keystone, and Aspen.

10. Ice Fishing

We’ve already listed fly fishing as one of the best things to do in Colorado in spring, summer, and fall, but if you’re a true angler you really can’t get enough of the sport.

Ice fishing may not be as exhilarating (or as warm) as fly fishing, but it’s still a lot of fun and it’s a popular activity here.

I wanted to list a few things on this list that you may not have thought of when planning a trip to Colorado, and I think we’ve achieved that now.

Ice fishing is a unique experience to have where you really feel like a local.

The sport is big here. There are plenty of ice fishing tournaments that happen in Colorado and there are lots of lakes where you can try your hand on the rod and auger.

Evergreen Lake, Georgetown, and Kremmling’s Wolford Reservoir are popular spots to drill a hole and drop a line.

Conclusion

I hope this post gave you a good idea of some unique things to do in Colorado, as well as some more common things and the best places to enjoy each.

The highest state really lives up to its name in many ways and is still one of the premier outdoor destinations in the USA.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or as a family, there will be something to suit everyone in Colorado. Strap on the hiking boots, pack a fishing rod, bring your snow gear, and enjoy the outdoors!

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This is your hub for all the best places to visit in CO, including top Colorado attractions, cool cities, unique outdoor adventures and ski vacation fun.

You’ll find our best tips, recommended hotels, tours and deals. We’re adding to this the more we explore Colorado so keep checking back.

In fact, we have not explored much of Colorado. Craig and I spent about 2 weeks in Colorado in the summer of 06 and loved it. Although it was long before travel blogging so we have limited content on it.

Be sure to check all of our USA travel tips, as we’ve been exploring the country in-depth for the past year on short breaks, getaways, road trips, and a year long RV trip of the American West.

What are your favorite things to do in Colorado?

As you can see from the comments, we already have many wonderful tips on places to visit in Colorado. Please shares yours as well!

This is where you can share in our journey.

We want to know your local favorites and the hidden gems in your backyard? What are the backroads to take and the mom and pop stores to visit?

Sure, we still want to visit the obvious Colorado destinations like Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park, but can you suggest other places to visit in Colorado? What is Colorado known for?

Some things already on our Colorado bucket list include:

• Boulder
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
• White Christmas in a log cabin
• Skiing
• Mountain biking in summer
• Denver Broncos game
• Great American Beer Festival

We can’t wait to read about your insider tips on things to do in Colorado!

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