Colorado is a state located in the western United States known for its stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and charming cities. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors or love exploring new cities, Colorado has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the 12 best cities to visit in Colorado, each offering unique attractions and activities that make them worth visiting.
Denver
The Mile High City, Denver, is the capital of Colorado and one of the most popular destinations in the state. With a population of over 700,000, Denver has a lot to offer visitors. Some of the must-visit attractions include the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Zoo, and the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Denver is also known for its craft breweries and delicious cuisine, making it a foodie’s paradise.
Colorado Springs
Located just an hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is another popular city in Colorado. It’s known for its stunning natural attractions such as Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, which can be reached via a scenic drive or a hike. Colorado Springs is also home to the United States Air Force Academy and the Olympic Training Center, both of which are open for public tours.
Boulder
Boulder is a vibrant city located at the base of the Rocky Mountains. It’s known for its outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Boulder is also home to the University of Colorado, which gives it a youthful and energetic vibe. The city has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and museums, and is known for its farm-to-table restaurants.
Aspen
Aspen is a picturesque mountain town located in the Roaring Fork Valley. It’s known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as its luxurious resorts and spas. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and rafting in the nearby rivers and mountains. Aspen is also known for its high-end shopping and dining options.
Vail
Vail is another popular ski resort town located in the Rocky Mountains. It’s known for its challenging slopes and luxurious accommodations, as well as its lively après-ski scene. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and golfing in the area. Vail also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous galleries and museums.
Fort Collins
Fort Collins is a charming city located in northern Colorado. It’s known for its historic downtown area, which is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and breweries. The city is also home to Colorado State University, which gives it a lively and youthful vibe. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the nearby foothills.
Durango
Durango is a small city located in southwestern Colorado. It’s known for its scenic beauty and historic downtown area, which features numerous shops and restaurants. Durango is also home to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which takes visitors on a scenic journey through the mountains.
Telluride
Telluride is a picturesque mountain town located in southwestern Colorado. It’s known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as its stunning natural beauty. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and rafting in the nearby rivers and mountains. Telluride also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous music and film festivals throughout the year.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is another popular ski resort town located in the Rocky Mountains. It’s known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as its charming downtown area, which is home to numerous shops and restaurants. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby mountains and rivers. Breckenridge also has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and events throughout the year.
Estes Park
Estes Park is a small town located at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Estes Park Aerial Tramway, which takes visitors to the top of Prospect Mountain for panoramic views of the area. Estes Park is also home to numerous shops and restaurants, making it a popular destination for visitors to the national park.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a charming mountain town located in northwestern Colorado. It’s known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as its famous hot springs. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking in the nearby mountains and rivers. Steamboat Springs is also home to numerous shops and restaurants, as well as a vibrant arts scene.
Grand Junction
Grand Junction is a small city located in western Colorado. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Colorado National Monument, which offers panoramic views of the red rock formations in the area. Grand Junction is also home to numerous wineries and vineyards, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.
Conclusion
Colorado is a state full of amazing cities and towns, each offering unique attractions and activities for visitors. From the vibrant city of Denver to the charming mountain towns of Aspen and Telluride, there’s something for everyone in Colorado. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors or prefer exploring new cities, Colorado is a must-visit destination.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Colorado?
- The best time to visit Colorado depends on what activities you’re interested in. Winter is great for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
- What is the most popular ski resort in Colorado?
- Vail is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado, known for its challenging slopes and luxurious accommodations.
- What is there to do in Colorado Springs?
- Colorado Springs is known for its stunning natural attractions such as Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, as well as its military and Olympic history.
- What is the closest airport to Aspen?
- The closest airport to Aspen is Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, which is located just three miles from downtown Aspen.
- Are there any famous music festivals in Colorado?
- Yes, Colorado is known for its numerous music festivals, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival.
