Colorado, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse attractions, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture lovers alike. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to vibrant cities and charming small towns, Colorado offers an array of experiences that cater to all types of travellers. This guide provides comprehensive insights into the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, and accommodations to consider during your trip to the Centennial State.
History of the Destination
The history of Colorado is rich and varied, with influences from Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and American pioneers. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne tribes, the area was later explored by Spanish adventurers in the 16th century. The name “Colorado,” meaning “coloured red” in Spanish, was given due to the reddish-brown silt carried by the Colorado River.
In the mid-19th century, the discovery of gold in the region sparked the Colorado Gold Rush, attracting settlers and leading to the establishment of towns and cities. Colorado became the 38th state of the United States on August 1, 1876. Today, Colorado’s history is preserved in its numerous museums, historic sites, and cultural events, offering visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past.
Information on the Location
Colorado is located in the western United States, bordered by Wyoming to the north, Nebraska to the northeast, Kansas to the east, Oklahoma to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and touches Arizona at the Four Corners. The state is renowned for its diverse geography, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the high plains, deserts, and deep canyons.
The capital city, Denver, is known as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation of exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level. Other major cities include Colorado Springs, Boulder, and Fort Collins. Each region of Colorado offers unique attractions and activities, making it a versatile destination for travellers.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Colorado is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique appeal:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit for those who enjoy mild weather and blooming wildflowers. It’s also less crowded, making it ideal for exploring national parks and hiking trails.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. Festivals and events are plentiful during this time.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, particularly in the mountains. It’s an excellent time for scenic drives and wine-tasting tours.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is prime ski season, with world-class ski resorts offering excellent snow conditions. It’s also a magical time to experience winter festivals and cosy up in mountain lodges.
Best Sites to Visit
Colorado boasts numerous must-see attractions that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some top sites to include in your itinerary:
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Garden of the Gods: Located in Colorado Springs, this natural landmark features striking red rock formations and offers hiking, rock climbing, and stunning photo opportunities.
- Mesa Verde National Park: Home to well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient cultures that once inhabited the region.
- Pikes Peak: Known as “America’s Mountain,” Pikes Peak offers stunning panoramic views and is accessible via hiking trails, a scenic highway, or the famous Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: This park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, offering unique recreational opportunities such as sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing.
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Known for its dramatic and steep canyon walls, this park offers hiking, rock climbing, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: An iconic open-air concert venue near Denver, known for its natural acoustics and stunning red rock formations.
- Historic Downtown Durango: This charming town offers a taste of the Old West with its preserved historic buildings, steam train rides, and vibrant arts scene.
Best Excursions to Do
From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Colorado offers a variety of excursions to suit every interest:
- Hiking and Backpacking: With thousands of miles of trails, Colorado is a hiker’s paradise. Popular trails include the Maroon Bells, Hanging Lake, and the Colorado Trail.
- White-Water Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on rivers such as the Arkansas River, Colorado River, and Clear Creek. Guided tours cater to all levels of experience.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar above the stunning landscapes of Colorado with a hot air balloon ride. Popular locations include Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Steamboat Springs.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the scenic trails and wilderness areas on horseback. Many ranches and outfitters offer guided rides and multi-day excursions.
- Wine Tours: Discover Colorado’s burgeoning wine industry with a tour of the state’s wineries. The Grand Valley and Palisade regions are particularly renowned for their vineyards.
- Historic Train Rides: Experience the nostalgia of train travel with rides on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
- Snow Sports: In winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in Colorado’s premier ski resorts such as Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge.
Best Beaches to Visit
While Colorado is a landlocked state, it offers beautiful lakes and reservoirs with sandy beaches perfect for summer fun:
- Grand Lake: Located near Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake, offering swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities.
- Boulder Reservoir: A popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking, Boulder Reservoir also features sandy beaches and scenic mountain views.
- Chatfield State Park: Located near Denver, this park offers a large reservoir with sandy beaches, boating, and a variety of water sports.
- Cherry Creek State Park: Another great option near Denver, Cherry Creek Reservoir features a swim beach, boating, and a marina.
- Ridgway State Park: Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, this park offers a reservoir with sandy beaches, camping, and water sports.
Best Food & Drink Places to Visit
Colorado’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from fine dining to casual eateries. Here are some must-visit food and drink spots:
- Mercantile Dining & Provision: Located in Denver’s Union Station, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
- The Little Nell: An iconic luxury hotel in Aspen known for its fine dining restaurant, Element 47, which offers a sophisticated menu and an extensive wine list.
- Frasca Food and Wine: This Boulder-based restaurant offers Northern Italian cuisine with a focus on Friulian dishes, complemented by an award-winning wine list.
- Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen: A popular gastropub in Denver, offering a diverse menu of comfort food, craft beers, and creative cocktails.
- New Belgium Brewing Company: Located in Fort Collins, this renowned brewery offers tours and tastings of its wide range of craft beers.
- Oskar Blues Grill & Brew: Known for its craft beers and live music, this Longmont-based brewery and restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and delicious pub fare.
- Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar: With locations in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, Jax is known for its fresh seafood, sustainable sourcing, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Root Down: A Denver restaurant offering globally inspired cuisine made with organic and locally sourced ingredients, along with a creative cocktail menu.
Hidden Gems to Visit
Colorado is full of hidden gems that offer unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Here are a few to explore:
- Bishop Castle: A whimsical and eccentric castle built single-handedly by Jim Bishop in the San Isabel National Forest. It’s an architectural marvel and a fun place to explore.
- St. Elmo Ghost Town: One of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns, St. Elmo offers a glimpse into the state’s mining history with its well-maintained buildings and scenic surroundings.
- Hanging Lake: A stunning turquoise lake located near Glenwood Springs, accessed by a steep but rewarding hike. The pristine waters and waterfall make it a magical destination.
- Penny Hot Springs: Located near Carbondale, these natural hot springs offer a relaxing and scenic soak in the crystal-clear waters of the Crystal River.
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park: A unique geological and archaeological site near Calhan, featuring colourful clay formations and prehistoric artefacts.
- Wheeler Geologic Area: An otherworldly landscape near Creede, featuring striking rock formations created by volcanic activity. It’s a remote and lesser-known destination perfect for adventurers.
- Great Divide Brewing Company: A Denver-based craft brewery known for its bold and flavourful beers. The taproom offers a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of brews.
Best Budget Hotels
Colorado offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations that provide comfort and convenience without breaking the bank:
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Denver Airport DIA: A reliable and affordable option near Denver International Airport, offering comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast.
- Hostel Fish: A trendy hostel in downtown Denver, offering dormitory and private rooms, a vibrant social atmosphere, and easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Motel 6 Colorado Springs: A budget-friendly motel offering clean and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a convenient location near Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Durango: An affordable hotel in Durango, offering comfortable accommodations, free breakfast, and easy access to historic downtown and outdoor activities.
- Red Lion Inn & Suites Denver Airport: A budget hotel offering comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a convenient location near the airport and downtown Denver.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
For those seeking a balance between affordability and comfort, Colorado has plenty of mid-range hotels to choose from:
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Boulder: An all-suite hotel offering spacious accommodations, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to Boulder’s attractions and outdoor activities.
- Drury Inn & Suites Colorado Springs Near the Air Force Academy: A family-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms, complimentary meals, and a convenient location near the Air Force Academy.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango: Located on the banks of the Animas River, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, scenic views, and easy access to historic downtown Durango.
- Courtyard by Marriott Denver Downtown: A centrally located hotel offering modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and easy access to Denver’s attractions, shopping, and dining.
- The Armstrong Hotel: A charming boutique hotel in Fort Collins, offering comfortable accommodations, a cosy atmosphere, and a central location near shops, restaurants, and breweries.
Best Boutique Hotels
Colorado’s boutique hotels offer unique and personalised experiences with a touch of luxury and charm:
- The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block: A stylish boutique hotel in Denver’s vibrant LoDo neighbourhood, offering modern amenities, unique decor, and a lively atmosphere.
- The Elizabeth Hotel: Located in downtown Fort Collins, this boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations, live music venues, and a rooftop lounge with stunning views.
- Hotel Teatro: A historic hotel in Denver offering elegant rooms, a sophisticated atmosphere, and easy access to the city’s theatre district and cultural attractions.
- The Little Nell: A renowned boutique hotel in Aspen, offering luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and access to world-class skiing and outdoor activities.
- SCP Hotel Colorado Springs: An eco-friendly boutique hotel offering minimalist design, sustainable practices, and a focus on wellness and community.
Best Luxury Hotels
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and indulgence, Colorado’s luxury hotels offer world-class amenities and exceptional service:
- The Broadmoor: A legendary luxury resort in Colorado Springs, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, a world-class spa, and a range of outdoor activities.
- St. Regis Aspen Resort: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this luxurious resort offers refined accommodations, gourmet dining, and unparalleled access to skiing and outdoor adventures.
- Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail: A premier luxury resort offering spacious accommodations, a full-service spa, and access to Vail’s renowned ski slopes and outdoor activities.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch: A luxurious mountain resort in Beaver Creek, offering elegant rooms, a lavish spa, and ski-in/ski-out access to world-class slopes.
- The Sebastian – Vail: A chic and luxurious hotel in Vail, offering stylish accommodations, a full-service spa, and easy access to skiing, dining, and shopping.
Best Transport Options
Getting around Colorado is convenient with a variety of transport options available:
- Car Rental: Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Colorado’s diverse landscapes and attractions. Major car rental companies have locations at airports and in major cities.
- Public Transport: Denver and other major cities offer public transport options such as buses and light rail systems. The RTD (Regional Transportation District) operates in the Denver metro area.
- Shuttle Services: Many ski resorts and hotels offer shuttle services to and from airports and popular destinations.
- Trains: Amtrak offers scenic train routes through Colorado, including the California Zephyr, which travels from Chicago to San Francisco, passing through Denver and the Rocky Mountains.
- Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Colorado’s major cities and offer convenient transportation options.
- Biking: Many cities in Colorado are bike-friendly, with extensive bike paths and rental services available for exploring urban areas and scenic trails.
Currency Information
The official currency in Colorado is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available in cities and towns. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at airports, major hotels, and banks.
Finding the Best Flights on TravelZine Flight Comparison Site
Finding the best flights to Colorado is made easy with TravelZine’s flight comparison site. Here are some tips to secure the best deals:
- Compare Prices: Use TravelZine to compare flight prices from multiple airlines and booking sites to find the best deals.
- Set Alerts: Set price alerts on TravelZine to be notified when fares drop for your preferred travel dates and destinations.
- Book in Advance: Booking your flights several months in advance can help you secure lower fares, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Be Flexible: If your travel dates are flexible, use TravelZine’s flexible date search to find the cheapest days to fly.
- Check Alternate Airports: Consider flying into alternate airports such as Colorado Springs or Aspen, which may offer cheaper flights than Denver International Airport.
Colorado is a destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to vibrant cities and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed holiday, the Centennial State is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. With this ultimate holiday destination guide, you’re well-equipped to plan an incredible trip to Colorado.
