family places to visit in colorado

• Last Updated On
• November 3, 2023

17 Fun Things to Do in Colorado with Kids — Best Family Friendly Attractions!

Colorado, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, boasts an array of family-friendly activities that are as diverse as its landscapes. 

From snow-covered peaks to sun-soaked valleys, Colorado offers a unique blend of fun, education, and adventure for kids. 

But how do you choose the best options with so much to offer?

As a traveler and parent, I’ve had the privilege of exploring Colorado extensively with my own little ones. 

My experiences have helped me curate a list of destinations that not only keep my kids entertained but also, inspire their curiosity and love for nature.

This comprehensive review will solve your planning woes by offering tips and insights about the fun things to do in Colorado with kids.

Let’s explore Colorado together and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Fun Things To Do In Colorado With Kids Compared

From majestic mountains to wild wildlife, this state has it all. 

Check out our top picks below. 

Editor’s Choice

Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour — Conifer

Home to incredibly fast and long zip lines, this adventurous tour lets your family travel at over 50 miles per hour at around 200 above the ground.

• Age Compatibility: Toddlers (6-9 years old)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 2/5
• Affordability: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Elitch Gardens — Denver

For over 100 years, this theme park has been luring families with kid-approved features and attractions.

• Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years old)
• Educational Value: 2/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5

#3rd Best Choice

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is a Colorado attraction with a suspension bridge over the Royal Gorge and a 360-acre amusement park.

• Educational Value: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

Here are 17 fun, family-friendly attractions in Colorado.

1. Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour — Conifer (Editor’s Choice)

26267 Conifer Rd Conifer, CO 80433 (303) 984-6151 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Thrilling experience: The Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour offers an exciting and adrenaline-pumping experience for both kids and adults. 
• Outdoor adventure: It encourages kids to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of the surroundings, and develop a sense of adventure and exploration.
• Safety concerns: Ziplining involves inherent risks, and there is always a small possibility of accidents or injuries. 
• Age and height restrictions: Some zipline courses may have age and height restrictions, which might limit the participation of younger or smaller children. 

What You’ll Experience

Does your idea of fun things to do in Colorado with kids include a shot of adrenaline?

If so, go on a Rocky Mountain Zipline adventure tour.

With this zip line course, you’ll be soaring over mountain meadows and through pine forests.

To me, it’s an exhilarating family adventure and a fantastic way to enjoy fresh air and magnificent mountain vistas.

Recommended Ages

Although the tours are safe for smaller kids, we still recommend them for youngsters ages 6 and up.

Recommended Hotel Near Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour — Conifer: Comfort Suites Castle Rock

Related: Geodesic Dome Accommodation: Comfort, Sustainability and Luxury Combined

2. Elitch Gardens — Denver

2000 Elitch Cir Denver, CO 80204 (303) 595-4386 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Amusement rides: From gentle carousels and kiddie rides to thrilling roller coasters, there are attractions that cater to the interests and preferences of kids of all ages.
• Water park: Elitch Gardens features a water park with water slides, wave pools, and other aquatic attractions. 
• Crowds and lines: Waiting in line for extended periods can be tiresome and may reduce the overall enjoyment of the park visit.
• Additional costs: Families should be prepared for these extra expenses, which can add up during the visit.

The best family vacations in Colorado usually include a visit to the convivial and colorful Elitch Gardens.

With thrilling coasters, a waterpark and kiddie rides, this theme park offers non-stop fun for the whole gang.

In fact, it’s often listed as one the best things to do in Colorado with toddlers and kids.

Elitch Gardens has a wide range of activities and adventures for visitors of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Near Elitch Gardens — Denver: Magnolia Hotel Denver, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 

3. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Cañon City, CO 81212 (719) 275-7507 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Scenic beauty: Kids can appreciate the natural beauty of the area, learn about the geological formations, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas.
• Bridge and gondola ride: Walking across the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge or taking a gondola ride provides a unique and memorable experience for kids. 
• Height and safety concerns: The Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the highest suspension bridges in the world, which may be intimidating for children with a fear of heights.
• Limited attractions: There are relatively fewer additional attractions or rides compared to traditional amusement parks. 

Step into a world of breathtaking beauty and heart-pounding excitement at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. 

The panoramic views of the surrounding rugged cliffs and pristine nature are simply awe-inspiring. 

You can also take a thrilling zip line ride, where the wind rushes through your hair as you soar above the gorge. 

Or hop on the Skycoaster for an adrenaline-pumping swing that will leave you screaming with delight. 

While other attractions may captivate with their charm and history, none can match the sheer exhilaration and grandeur found here. 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park promises an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park offers attractions and activities suitable for all ages.

Recommended Hotel Near Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: Quality Inn & Suites

4. Garden of the Gods Segway Tour — Colorado Springs

1805 N 30th St Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 634-6666 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Explore the Gardens of the Gods in a rather fun and unique way by taking a segway tour.

Perfect for teenagers, this one-of-a-kind family-friendly tour lets you see incredible wildlife and billion-year-old geological formations.

With a savvy guide, the tour also features beguiling stories and tales of the old west.

This segway tour is perfect for active teens and tweens (at least 12 years old).

Recommended Hotel Near Garden of the Gods Segway Tour — Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

5. Boulder Reservoir — Boulder

5565 1st St Boulder, CO 80301 (303) 441-3461 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Beaches are truly the best best-kept secrets of Colorado.

Although it’s a landlocked state, Colorado still offers ample opportunities for beach fun and waterfront recreation.

And, one the best family beaches in Colorado is Boulder Reservoir.

In summer, the reservoir becomes a beach paradise, complete with amenities, including charcoal grills, picnic tables as well as volleyball and horseshoe courts.

Also, the park offers cheap and free kids activities, like sunbathing, waterskiing, cycling and boating.

And, did we mention that it’s situated near several family resorts?

Boulder Reservoir, with its lovely beaches and fun recreation, will surely satisfy guests of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Near Boulder Reservoir — Boulder: Basecamp Boulder

Related: Top Places to Eat in Boulder

6. WOW! Children’s Museum — Lafayette

110 N Harrison Ave Lafayette, CO 800026 (303) 604-2424 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for meaningful things to do with kids when it’s raining?

Trust me, you’re going to love this children’s museum in Colorado.

Like most children’s museums, they will learn a lot as they play here.

Built specifically for the little ones, this museum houses exhibits that will aid their development while they grow.

From science to cultural exhibits, dramatic play and art, these exhibits cover a variety of themes.

WOW! Children’s Museum is mainly designed for youngsters ages 1 to 10.

Still, older kids and even adults will also likely enjoy some of the museum’s games and exhibits.

Recommended Hotel Near WOW! Children’s Museum — Lafayette: Hampton Inn & Suites Lafayette

Related: Weekend Getaways in Colorado

7. Colorado Railroad Museum — Golden

17155 W 44th Ave Golden, CO 80403 (303) 279-4591 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No list of the best Colorado attractions for families is complete without this railroad museum.

As you explore the museum with children, you’ll see more than 100 vintage engines, coaches, cabooses and other beguiling exhibits.

And, more importantly, it hosts special events as well as vintage locomotive train rides throughout the year. And, guess what?

This train ride lets you enjoy the scenic beauty of Colorado without the stress of driving.

The Colorado Railroad Museum is an exciting and educational experience for kiddos ages 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Near Colorado Railroad Museum — Golden: Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center

8. Pikes Peak Jeep Tour — Colorado Springs

925 S 8th St Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 578-0935 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

See the grandeur of the Pikes Peak region in a fun and engaging way by taking this jeepney tour.

Besides the mesmerizing views, this tour is also educational, thanks to the informative and entertaining cowboy guides.

From the history of the Colorado Springs to the area’s geology, this jeeptour is full of fun tidbits.

And, if you opt for an open-air jeep, you’ll also enjoy unobstructed photo opportunities.

Pikes Peak jeep tour is suitable and safe for children ages 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Near Pikes Peak Jeep Tour — Colorado Springs: The Antlers, A Wyndham Hotel

9. Hammonds’ Candy Factory Tour — Denver

5735 Washington St Denver, CO 80216 (303) 333-5588 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No, you won’t find Willy Wonka and his Oompa Loompas on this free factory tour.

Instead, you’ll find 150 skilled candy makers masterfully handcrafting over 4,000 pounds of candy per day.

The tour starts with a quick rundown of the factory’s history through a video presentation.

Then, you’ll make your way to the areas where the workers are busy stirring confections and twisting and slicing candy canes.

After the tour, your gang will have a new and deeper appreciation for the candy-making art.

Kids ages 2 to 12 will absolutely have a swell time touring this iconic candy factory in Denver.

Recommended Hotel Near Hammonds’ Candy Factory Tour — Denver: The Ramble Hotel

Related: Restaurants: Denver, Colorado

10. Dinosaur Ridge — Morrison

16831 W Alameda Pkwy Morrison, CO 80465 (303) 697-34966 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In Dinosaur Ridge, you and your tribe may explore over 250 dinosaur footprints and tons of other fossils.

Besides the indoor interactive exhibits, families may also hike Dinosaur Ridge Trail.

Amazingly, the ridge is home to dozens of dinosaur tracks as well as the Dinosaur Ridge Done Quarry.

There are also guided paid tours that include rides along the ridge trail with pit stops to see the fossils.

Dinosaur Ride is best suited for children ages 3 to 12.

Recommended Hotel Near Dinosaur Ridge — Morrison: Origin Hotel Red Rocks

11. Downtown Aquarium — Denver

700 Water St Denver, CO 80211 (303) 561-4450 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

They don’t call Downtown Aquarium one of the best kid-friendly places to go near you in Denver for nothing.

With its unique displays, this family-friendly attraction offers a plethora of kids activities.

Our favorites include feeding stingrays, swimming with sharks and watching mermaid shows.

There’s also a restaurant inside that will make you feel like you’re dining underwater.

With a range of attractions and features, Downtown Aquarium offers a multitude of activities for children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Near Downtown Aquarium — Denver: Grand Hyatt Denver

12. Rocky Mountain National Park Tour — Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 80517 (970) 568-1206 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s no place in Colorado quite as stunning and breathtaking as the Rockies.

Famous for its ethereal scenery, this national park will sweep you into bliss with its fascinating wildlife, wilderness, alpine lakes and peaks.

For a memorable experience, I suggest that you take a Rocky Mountain National Park tour from Boulder or Denver.

Not only is it convenient and hassle-free, but it will also take you to the most beautiful spots at the park.

Truthfully, some of the best family resorts in Colorado even recommend their guests to take a tour when exploring the park.

The Rockies tour is an ideal nature escape for children ages 6 and up.

Recommended Hotel Near Rocky Mountain National Park Tour — Estes Park: YMCA of the Rockies

13. Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

2121 Children’s Museum Dr Denver, CO 80211 (303) 433-7444 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Children’s Museum of Denver, a wonderland for young minds, is one of the most fun things to do in Colorado for kids.

With a child-sized grocery market, fire station, and construction workshop, it’s a place where kids can role-play and learn about the world in a hands-on way.

This museum is a hit with kids because it’s like stepping into a mini-world designed just for them.

The grocery market teaches them about food and commerce.

The fire station and construction workshop offer lessons in community roles and teamwork.

Parents will love how the museum combines education with play, making learning fun and interactive.

Seasonal events keep the experience fresh, so there’s always something new to explore.

So, make sure it’s on your list of must-try Colorado kids activities.

This museum is ideal for kids aged 2 to 8.

The museum has various zones tailored to different age groups, ensuring that younger and older kids alike have a blast.

Recommended Hotel Near Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus: Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver

14. Butterfly Pavilion

6252 W 104th Ave Westminster, CO 80020 (303) 469-5441 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Butterfly Pavilion in Broomfield is a tropical paradise.

Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful butterflies fluttering around.

It’s a sensory feast with the smells of exotic plants and the feel of sea stars and tarantulas.

Parents can enjoy the educational aspects, learning about different species and ecosystems.

The center often hosts special events, making it one of the best indoor kids activities Colorado has to offer.

This pavilion is great for all ages and especially engaging for kids 4 to 12.

Younger kids will love the visual spectacle, while older ones can delve into the science behind it.

Recommended Hotel Near Butterfly Pavilion: Aloft Broomfield Denver

15. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

2001 Colorado Blvd Denver, CO 80205 (303) 370-6000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is your gateway to the cosmos and the natural world.

With a planetarium, IMAX theater, and exhibits ranging from space to dinosaurs, it’s a family learning adventure.

Your kiddos can watch jaw-dropping shows at the planetarium and IMAX.

While you can appreciate the educational value and the chance to share a learning experience with your kids.

For those on the hunt for awesome and fascinating things to do with kids, Colorado offers this one-of-a-kind gem.

This museum is best for kids 5 and up.

It offers a wide range of exhibits that cater to various age groups, making it a versatile outing.

Recommended Hotel Near Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Magnolia Hotel Denver, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 

16. Water World

8801 N Pecos St Federal Heights, CO 80260 (303) 427-7873 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Water World in Federal Heights is a splashy haven.

As one of the nation’s largest water parks, it offers endless fun with a variety of slides and pools.

From thrilling slides to lazy rivers, it’s renowned as one of the most kid friendly things to do in Colorado.

Kids can race down slides while parents relax in the wave pool.

The park also has food concessions to keep everyone fueled for a day of fun.

It’s perfect for kids aged 6 to 16.

The park has different areas suited for various age groups, ensuring everyone has a good time.

Recommended Hotel Near Water World: Quality Inn & Suites

17. Crested Butte Mountain Resort

12 Snowmass Rd Crested Butte, CO 81225 (970) 251-7021 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Crested Butte Mountain Resort is an all-season playground.

Whether it’s climbing walls in the summer or ice-skating in the winter, this park offers year-round fun.

In the summer, kids can tackle the climbing wall or try out the bungee trampolines.

Come winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating and tubing.

Parents can join in the fun or enjoy watching their kids have the time of their lives.

If you’re looking for “fun things to do with kids near me” in Colorado, don’t miss out on this awesome activity.

This park is a hit with kids aged 5 to 15.

With activities that change with the seasons, it’s a place they’ll want to visit again and again.

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Colorado is bursting at the seams with fun-filled adventures for the whole family. 

If your tribe thrives on adrenaline, the Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour in Conifer might be your ticket to joy. 

Imagine the thrill in your child’s eyes as they zip over towering pines and verdant valleys – a memory we still cherish from our last family vacation.

Then there’s Elitch Gardens in Denver, a classic amusement and water park that houses a delightful array of rides for all ages. 

Last summer, the kids couldn’t get enough of the roller coasters and wave pool, leaving us adults ample time to relax and soak up the Colorado sun.

Lastly, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Cañon is a spectacle not to miss. 

Walking across America’s highest suspension bridge had us spellbound with panoramic vistas that still warm our hearts when we flip through our family photo album.

Remember, it’s essential to compare these options, considering factors like cost, personal preferences, and overall family enjoyment.

How I Picked The Activities

Colorado has always been a wellspring of inspiration. 

My process of picking fun things to do with kids in this state is meticulous yet intuitive. 

Conversations with locals form the backbone of my research – nothing beats a local’s perspective when it comes to unraveling the hidden gems of a region. 

Moreover, online research is indispensable, lending a comprehensive view of what each activity offers.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i find outdoor adventure activities for kids in colorado.

Colorado offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for kids, including hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, biking along the scenic trails in Colorado Springs, or enjoying water sports at Cherry Creek State Park.

Are There Any Educational Attractions For Kids In Colorado?

Yes, there are several educational attractions for kids in Colorado. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science provides interactive exhibits and educational programs, while the Space Foundation Discovery Center in Colorado Springs offers hands-on experiences related to space and science.

What Are Some Kid-Friendly Ski Resorts In Colorado?

Popular kid-friendly ski resorts in Colorado include Keystone Resort, where families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, as well as Steamboat Springs, which offers ski schools and family-friendly slopes.

Can You Recommend Any Amusement Parks In Colorado?

Certainly! Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park in Denver is a fantastic amusement park featuring thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment suitable for kids of all ages.

Where Can We Go Camping With Kids In Colorado?

Colorado has many excellent camping destinations for families. Some great options include Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mueller State Park.

Fun Things to Do in Colorado with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Colorado Vacation? by u/ZeroLifeNiteVision in toddlers

Conclusion 

Colorado is a treasure trove of fun, offering an abundance of adventures for families. 

After exploring the state’s diverse landscapes with my kiddos, we have a clear winner among the fun things to do in Colorado with kids. 

Elitch Gardens in Denver provided an amusement park thrill, and the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park offered scenic beauty and a history lesson.

However, none could match the exhilarating experience of the Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour in Conifer. 

The excitement, the physical activity, the immersion in nature – it was a rich, unforgettable encounter that will forever be etched in our memories. 

This zipline adventure takes the crown.

Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, sand dunes, and 14ers: the sheer variety of travel destinations that make up any list of the best places to visit in Colorado is magnificent.

Known for its snowcapped peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing, and beyond, Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the coolest states to visit in the USA.

If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this Colorado bucket list is for you.

Here are the coolest places in Colorado to visit!

Table of Contents

Colorado National Parks For Your Bucket List

Cool cities + small towns to visit in co, more of the best places to visit in colorado.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Colorado is home to four stunning national parks to visit–and despite the Centennial State’s reputation for its incredible Rocky Mountain landscapes, each park is incredibly unique and well worth a visit!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcoming more than 3 million visitors each year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the state’s most popular national park, it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Colorado as a whole!

From snowcapped mountains to alpine lakes, and from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has options for all kinds of travelers–the only thing you truly need to justify a visit is an appreciation for alpine beauty.

Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake, driving the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and checking out Old Fall River Road (either by car or by foot depending on the season).

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible–just be prepared to lace up your cross country skis to visit some of the most popular lakes!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Megan of Red Around the World

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park  is an often-overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado–but if you add it to your list of beautiful places in Colorado to visit, there’s no doubt that you’ll be blown away.

It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet deep.  It’s hard to imagine that, even when you’re there looking at it.  It’s easiest to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison which is also where you can access the river at the bottom of the canyon.

There is also access to the North Rim which is perfect if you want to get away from the already meager crowds. 

Keep in mind that though the two rims look close to each other on a map, they’re a couple hours worth of driving apart.

While the park isn’t bursting with hiking trails, there are quite a few to choose from and just as many amazing viewpoints to stop at. 

Keep your eyes peeled for bears while you’re exploring the park.  

Even if you just have a couple of hours, it’s totally worth visiting.  Most of the trails are short, under three miles round-trip. 

The Oak Flat Loop Trail is great for people looking to hike below the rim but not all the way to the river.  It’s two miles round-trip and can be narrow in some places, so be careful. 

Also make sure to drive down to the river, even if just for the experience.

Mesa Verde National Park

From James of Parks Collecting

Mesa Verde National Park  is home to 600 cliff dwellings. 

The Ancient Puebloans built their villages in overhangs in the side of steep cliffs and climbed down from above, using hand and footholds carved directly into the cliff. 

Today, you can see many of them from overlooks at the top of the mesa and see some of them up close on guided tours.  Bear in mind that you need to climb down ladders or steep steps to visit them.

The cliff dwellings are truly incredible to see.  Highlights include Cliff Palace (the largest), Long House, and Balcony House (where you need to crawl through a very narrow tunnel to exit).

Each year, some of the other dwellings are also opened up to small group visits, with a ranger as a guide.  You need to hike to these, and often climb down the original hand and footholds (with the help of modern-day chains to make it safer). 

Whether you see the cliff dwellings from overlooks, on a guided tour, or a small group back-country hike, you are sure to be fascinated by them.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Rai of A Rai of Light

Great Sand Dunes National Park, found in the Saguache and Alamosa Counties of southern Colorado, encompasses more than 100,000 acres of open-air adventure.

The fascination not only lies with the tallest sand dunes in North America, but also the surrounding landscape that features forests, snow-capped mountains, and rivers.

There is so much to do that 3 days is the minimum number of days to spend in and around the surrounding area. Top sights in the preserve include High Dune, Zapata Falls, Medano Pass.

Sandboarding is a popular activity and should not be missed. Other activities worth trying include sledding, horseback riding, and hiking to catch a beautiful sunrise .

The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall.

The closest town is Mosca, but the park is easily reached from any major city as the San Luis Valley Airport is a mere 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of Estes Park easily ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalance of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any Colorado bucket list.

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, check out one of the town’s breweries, and pay a visit to the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.

Even if you don’t check in, the hotel is still worth a peak!

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

Crested Butte

From Martina + Jurgen of PlacesofJuma

Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended places to visit in Colorado.

It is famous as a ski resort and is also considered to be the capital of wildflowers, making Crested Butte a fantastic year-round travel destination in Colorado.

In winter, the challenging ski slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. The cross-country ski trails, which are located around the city, add a special beauty to the unique landscape.

In the warm months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the unique nature of the region and the splendor of the flowers.

But not only is the surrounding nature gorgeous, but the town is also pretty too!

Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town, and walking around, you will discover picturesque historical buildings, great restaurants, and plenty of mountain views.

We also recommend a visit in July, when the famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

• Nordic Inn: This comfortable hotel is a great place to rest after exploring. There is a Great Room with complimentary games and views over Mt. Crested Butte, there is also a large hot tub to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and really cosy.
• Public House Lofts: As the name suggests these rooms are over a really great bar called Public House, perfectly located for getting home quickly at the end of the evening! The rooms are modern, comfortable and really well designed. Definitely a great spot to stay in Crested Butte.

Colorado’s capital city is arguably one of the trendiest and fastest-growing cities in the country–and given that Denver offers a fantastic array of things to do while also being located within proximity of epic mountain hikes, it’s no surprise.

Known for its breweries, parks, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park as well as popular mountain towns like Boulder and Estes Park, Denver makes a fantastic weekend getaway destination .

While you’re in Denver, consider catching a game at Coor’s Field, seeing a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, strolling down the 16th Street Mall, stopping by Larimer Square, and–of course–hitting up a few of those popular breweries.

If you’re looking to add some museum-hopping to your Denver itinerary , the city also has you covered, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique options like the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

Steamboat Springs

From Liz of Peanuts or Pretzels

Steamboat Springs might be a popular ski town in Colorado and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here can feel less like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation and more like an adventure.

This is a town with a vibrant local community, humorous traditions, and lively Western history.

A four-season destination, there’s plenty of things to do year-round in Steamboat. But for many, winter is the most magical time.

Winter sports are everywhere, not just the main ski resort.

The locals even have their own hill in the center of town and during the Winter Carnival each February, the town comes alive with ski contests (complete with light-up costumes and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures, and parades where horses pull thrill-seekers on skis over jumps right through the middle of town!

After all of that winter fun, take a soothing dip in one of the  hot springs around town , such as Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural scenery tucked back in a canyon. 

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

• For a premium place to stay, book into the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas . This is a classic excellent quality large hotels with all the facilities you would expect. Guaranteed great stay
• Chalet Val d’Isere is also a fabulous option but with more of a homely vibe. There are just a few rooms and it is a classic ski lodge style cabin complete with plenty of cozy features.

Breckenridge

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rockies with non-stop activities and scenic beauty.

Visit the craft breweries and fabulous restaurants in this town surrounded by mountain peaks. Breckenridge chefs feature local farm-to-table ingredients. In Breckenridge’s historic district you can learn the story of this old mining town.

Breckenridge is famous for its world-class cross country and alpine skiing, making it one of the most classic Colorado vacation spots. The Breckenridge ski resort boasts 5 mountains and 187 trails.

In the summer you will find wildflowers as you hike into an alpine meadow or a cascading waterfall. In fall, the blazing colors of the aspens are spectacular.

Breckenridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing, and biking are a few of the outdoor adventures to try. Hikers will love the hundreds of nearby trails.

Don’t miss a chance to take the free gondola ride up into the mountains. It’s not unusual to see moose or a bald eagle from your vantage point high above the meadows.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.
• Mountain Valley Lodge : A great Marriott resort with all the expected facilities, rooms are really spacious and all have great views of the mountains. There is also an onsite spa, swimming pool and ski storage.

Glenwood Springs

From Mark of Summer Camp Hub

Glenwood Springs is a city right by the Rocky Mountains famous for being home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado .

It’s renowned as an excellent Colorado vacation spot for just about everyone, including families and would-be adventurers. 

If you’re looking to soak in hot springs, you need to visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs. There are 16 hot springs you can enjoy while getting a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking to go hiking, then the Glenwood Canyon is readily available with hikes like the Grizzly Creek and the Hanging Lake. 

There are also plenty of other outdoor thrilling activities you can do like paragliding and rafting.

If you’re visiting as a family, there are plenty of outdoor kid-friendly activities children can participate in.

With such a huge opportunity for children to receive an outdoor education, it’s no surprise that there are numerous summer camps in the state  and city. 

Apart from outdoor adventures to partake in, be sure to visit the famous comedy shows that go on at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

• Glenwood Springs B&B: Fancy staying in a piece of history? This quaint B&B is over 100 years old and is exceptionally well maintained. Many of the rooms have deep claw-foot bathtubs and if that isn’t enough water for you there is a huge jacuzzi for guests.
• Hanging Lake Inn: For something more classic this Inn is a great option. Facilities are fresh and modern, and there is a lovely porch area with views of the hills.

Manitou Springs

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Manitou Springs is a historic city located just outside of Colorado Springs with roots tracing back to the Pikes Peak gold rush.

It is the perfect Colorado bucket list destination for some small-town charm, natural beauty, culture, and fun!

A visit to Manitou Springs would not be complete without taking a  self-guided walking tour of the springs. There are eight springs in total along a 1.4-mile trail through town, each with its own unique mineral content.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, authentic relocated Pueblos, is another must-visit spot in Manitou Springs.

For some more hiking, climb the Incline near Pikes Peak for some stunning views, or if you prefer not to hike, drive the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit.

After a long day of exploring, find plenty of food and bar options in downtown Manitou Springs.

If traveling with kids, be sure to check out the world-famous Penny Arcade for games, kiddie rides, and prizes! And finally stop in at Pike’s Peak Ice Cream for some tasty treats and ice cream! 

Where to Stay in Manitou Springs

• Cliff House: Looking like something out of a fairy story this fabulous hotel has wonderful old-world charm, pretty views, and some rooms even have working fireplaces!
• Magnuson Grand : For more of a classic modern hotel this is a great option. The facilities are lovely and there are mountain views throughout. It is also minutes away from the waterfalls and Garden of the Gods.

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Telluride is a small but mighty town with colorful mining history and unparalleled landscapes that draw visitors from all over the country. 

Tucked away in the box canyon in San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Telluride is definitely an exclusive destination as it’s not easy to get to. It takes about 5-6 hours from Denver to get here, and the local airport doesn’t have big commercial flights. 

Telluride is a scenic destination that is renowned for its year-round outdoor opportunities, gorgeous nature, and a vibrant art scene, so it’s not just skiing that brings so many people here (Although Telluride does have some great slopes). 

Telluride also offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado from the iconic Blue Lakes a short drive away to Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail that can be accessed from downtown Telluride.

For an amazing experience, take a free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village from where you can get a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains. 

Visitors also enjoy an ice rink at Hotel Madeline or get a tour of the area to learn about its history of silver mining.

Downtown Telluride is home to a big art scene with several galleries and you can easily participate in one of the organized tours. 

Where to Stay in Telluride

• Mountain Lodge: This classic chalet style aparthotel offers wonderful fully equipped, spacious apartments. It is nestled in the mountains and has onsite spa facilities and a great restaurant.
• The Bivvi Hostel: Don’t let the hostel name fool you! The facilities here are excellent are there is more to offer than crowded dorm-rooms. Private rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Shared facilities onsite feature billiards, a hot tub, garden and pretty terrace.

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the state.  Known for its world-class ski runs and luxurious accommodations, Vail is a sought-after destination worldwide. 

You can travel to Vail year-round but the best time to visit Vail is in the winter.  With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is not only one of the biggest in the United States but it’s also extremely popular. 

From the legendary back bowls to the bunny hill, Vail mountain offers something for every ability level. 

Vail Village is full of boutique shops, fun bars, and tasty restaurants.  One of the best bars in Vail Village is Vendetta’s.  Come here for a fun environment, apres drinks, and cheap pizza.  

If you are looking for more of an intimate dining experience reserve a table at one of the several on-mountain restaurants like Game Creek. 

Whatever it is that peaks your interest, Vail, Colorado is a Colorado travel destination for the whole family to enjoy.  

Where to Stay in Vail

• Lodge at Lionscreek: The location for this hotel is perfect, it is right next to the transit point for the ski lifts. Ski equipment is also available for rental on site if you don’t bring your own. The facilities are excellent, rooms have views over Gore Creek and are all private apartment style with their own kitchen facilities, some of the larger ones also have beautiful dining spaces in case you want to host!
• Tivoli Lodge: For a hotel set up this is a great option, rooms are fabulous and quite large. The hotel itself is a few meters away from several slope and ski lifts, it also has an onsite cocktail lounge for après-ski!

Pagosa Springs

From Agnes of The Van Escape

Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado.

It is worth adding it to the  road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

The town is famous for its magnificent thermal springs, thanks to which it owes its name. In Ute, “pagosah” means “healing waters.” Pagosa is the home of the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.

So, the best thing you can do in this town is soaked up the hot springs and relax.

The mineral-rich waters fill the baths at The Springs Resort & Spa, The Overlook Hot Springs, and Healing Waters Resort & Spa. Each of them is open to the public.

In addition to the hot springs resorts, there are interesting and picturesque hiking trails around Pagosa Springs. You can admire fabulous waterfalls like Treasure Falls or Piedra Falls. Moreover, rafting and kayaking trips are popular on the San Juan River.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs

• The Nightingale Motel: Well located with pretty views and excellent rooms, complete with private balcony. There is also an onsite bar to refresh after visiting the hot springs.
• For a homely self contained option the Fireside Cabins are fabulous. Decor is in keeping with the mountain theme and the kitchens are well equipped with everything you need.

Colorado Springs

From Jenny of Limitless Hiker

Spend a weekend or even a long weekend exploring Colorado Springs . It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of this small town in Colorado.

Colorado Springs is well known for its Manitou Springs Incline which gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. Whether you’re looking for a tough workout to start training for Colorado 14ers (14,000-foot mountains), or just want to challenge yourself, this incline trail is a must.

Colorado Springs is also known for the beautiful Garden of the Gods park.

The Garden of the Gods is known for its bright orange rock formations. It’s a popular spot among rock climbers or you can spend some time biking around or even hiking around.

Next on the list of must-see places in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Which is the only 14er in this area. You have the option of hiking to the top, which is 26.2 miles round trip with around 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or you could also hike one way and have someone pick you up at the top. The other alternative is to drive to the top. 

After you’ve had a good workout from all of that hiking, head over to the SunWater Spa and soak in their hot springs. This is a rewarding treat after a hard workout.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

• The Lodge at Flying Horse is a stunning option for your stay in Colorado Springs. The resort is a European-style 18-hole golf course with views across the grounds and incredible facilities.
• To stay in the heart of Downtown book into Kinship Landing . Rooms are clean and stylish, and if you are on a budget they have great dorm rooms available.

From Ankita of My Travelling Stilettos

Nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the most famous ski resort town in the US and one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Long snowy winters thanks to the elevation of 8000 ft and proximity of four world-renowned Ski Resorts made it the favorite ski destination for celebrities and private citizens alike.

It is situated 200 miles away from Denver and can be reached easily by road.

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding are the most popular activities to do in the winter.

Not an adventure junkie? Explore Aspen town.

Visit Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerom, catch glimpses of annual film and music festivals or experience a fine dining meal from the plethora of world-class restaurants.

Spring and falls are the ideal time to take mountain gondola rides to the top of Elks Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Aspen has many hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy when it is not snowing.

Where to Stay in Aspen

• Limelight Hotel is a superb option in Aspen, and great value for money. There is a hot tub, outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace to enjoy in warmer months. Rooms are spacious and many include kitchenettes.
• The W also has a fabulous hotel here in Aspen with all the top range facilities you would expect. Rooms are excellent with luxury details, such as fluffy bathrobes and towels. There are also bikes available for free use should you want to explore Aspen on wheels.

Grand Junction

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking to get beyond Colorado’s famous ski towns and find some  cheaper places in Colorado to visit that are still worthy of a Colorado bucket list? Look no further than Grand Junction.

Located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado rivers, Grand Junction is such a beautiful place that offers everything from natural scenic views to Colorado adventures without burning a hole in your pocket.

It is just a short drive away from Utah and around 245 miles away from Denver. Not only for outdoor adventures but this popular Colorado town is also known as Colorado’s Wine County as it is home to many wineries.

From exploring historic downtown to wine tasting and hiking nearby trails, you will find plenty of things to do in Grand Junction.

Discover Grand Junction’s historic downtown district which is filled with varieties of mixed art galleries, sculptures, local boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Next, visit the Colorado National Monument, where you just may think that you’ve been transporated to the rocky landscape of southern Utah.

Located just a short drive from downtown, these natural stunning landscapes of red rock formations will leave you awestruck.

Grand Junction is also a great place for wine lovers. If you visit this place in summer or spring, don’t miss a wine tasting tour. Enjoy the views of the vineyards while sipping on some of the best quality wines.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction

• Castle Creek Manor: A lovely B&B with a friendly homely vibe and mountain views. Some rooms have balconies, perfect for taking in the fresh air.
• Grand River Inn: With spacious rooms and rustic decor this is a lovely choice for Grand Junction

From Krystianna of Delightfully Denver

One of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado is the town of Golden!

This town has deep-rooted wild west vibes and is home to some amazing attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting this state. Plus,  one day in Golden  is all you need.

Even though Denver is home to Coors Field, Golden is actually where Coors Brewery is located.

The brewery hosts tours for the public, and you can even catch a shuttle bus from downtown Golden to easily get there if you’re traveling without a car.

Golden is also one of the best towns near Denver for hiking. There are a few mountains to hike here, including Lookout Mountain and Table Mountain, and both are equally great.

Downtown Golden is lovely too. There’s a huge “Welcome to Golden” sign that gets decorated for the holidays. You can find a bunch of local shops and restaurants throughout downtown Golden like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado and want to visit a small western town, Golden is the perfect place!

Where to Stay in Golden

• Table Mountain Inn: With mountain views and rustic decor this is a great place to stay in Golden
• The Silk Pincushion: As expected with such a quirky name this adorable hotel is a charming place to stay in Golden, perfect for a home style welcome.

From Corritta of It’s a Family Thing

One of the best-kept secrets of Colorado is Canon City. I know you may be wondering what makes this one of the best places in Colorado, and that’s the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Only an hour away from Colorado Springs, Canon City is a small town with a big bridge. The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspended bridge in the United States. The bridge is over 900 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is a sight to see and even more amazing to walk. Along with walking across the over 1200 footbridge, you can also ride the gondola across the gorge, zipline, or fly on the royal rush sky coaster.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can head down to the gorge and enjoy a train ride along the Arkansas River. You can relax and have dinner while learning more about Canon City.

If you are up for an adventure, you can raft on the Arkansas River. Take of the waters while taking in the beautiful scenic views.

In the spring, you can enjoy the music and blossom festival, which is a celebration of the upcoming cherry and apple crop.

Canon City is the perfect small-town with diners, shops, boutiques, and few traffic lights. Be sure to stop at Julian’s Taco Shop downtown; you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay in Canon City

• Hampton Inn: For good simple accommodation this is a great choice in Canon City. It is also walking distance to Royal Gorge Bridge.

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

Aurora is one of the best places in Colorado. You find the city to the east of Denver.

There are lots of great things to do and see in the city of Aurora. For example, there are a lot of outdoor activities and there is beautiful nature.

One of the best things to do in Aurora is going to Cherry Creek State Park. This is a beautiful park with lots of places with water. It is the perfect place for a relaxing walk while seeing the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Another great thing about Cherry Greek State Park is that there are many water activities. Besides that, another great thing to do in Aurora is visiting the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This is a very interesting museum to visit.

Also, you should go to Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. This is a very large outdoor amphitheater where many events throughout the year take place.

Where to Stay in Aurora

• Woolley’s Classic Suites : With old-world touches and mountain views this is a great option for your stay in Aurora.

Mount Evans

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If standing on the summit of a 14er is on your Colorado bucket list, don’t miss a trip to Mount Evans.

You can reach the 14,265-foot summit of this mountain in multiple ways, so you get to decide how hard you want to work to get to the top.

Mount Evans is located about 60 miles west of Denver, along Mount Evans Scenic Byway (aka Highway 5), which is the highest paved road in the whole country.

You can actually drive it straight to the top with only a short stroll to the true summit from the parking lot.

For the extra bragging rights and experience of hiking a 14er , pull off earlier on the road and park at Summit Lake trailhead.

From there, hike approximately 4.5 miles round trip (with 2300 feet of elevation gain) to get to the summit of Mount Evans.

If you prefer pedal power, you can bike to the summit as well.

Be aware that the road to the trailhead and summit is closed in winter, so plan to visit Mount Evans in spring, summer, or fall.

Where to Stay in Mount Evans

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in nearby Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.

From Jesal of Tourist to Travellers

Grand Lake Colorado, the largest natural lake in Colorado is a picturesque sight with snow-capped mountains and a breathtaking backdrop of the wild Rocky Mountains, and it ranks among the best Colorado vacation spots!

At 8300 feet above sea level, the scenery is unmatched and the sprawling greenery is soothing to one’s eyes.

It’s also an ideal basecamp for the adventure seeker.

While visiting Grand Lake, be sure to take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, relax on the beach, take a few hikes to enjoy the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

You could hire a cozy cabin in the woods and spend some time with your loved ones.

If you’re visiting this beautiful place in Colorado during winter, consider trying out skiing or snowboarding during your trip.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

• Grand Lake Townhome : This fully equipped self-catered holiday home is great for small groups or a couple if you want plenty of space! There is a wonderful deck with great views, it is even known to spot Moose right in front.
• Grand Lake Lodge: For catered options with the same cabin feel is this lodge right in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is also a hot tub and pool available to use.

Willow Lakes

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Willow Lakes in Colorado brings the drama of the Colorado Gore Range to life.

If you’re up for a challenging hike that makes up for every drop of sweat with fantastic scenery, this is definitely one of the best places in Colorado to please your adventurous soul!

Known for its rugged trails, fantastic mountain views, and jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes (one which is backdropped by an impressive series of gendarmes, the Zodiac Spires), Willow Lakes will greet you every step of the way with yet another wonderful view (usually better than the last!).

Another highlight? The entire trail is lined with flowers, which makes it one of the best  wildflower hikes in Colorado !

One of the coolest things to do at Willow Lakes (aside from dropping your jaw to the ground at the scenery) is camping in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Willow Lakes

There are several campsites along the last mile of the trail. Few things in life are as amazing as spending a night under the stars here!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado”

There is a flaw in this article, Grand Lake is a very nice small mountain town. And yes there is a lake called Grand Lake, but the big lake is called Lake Granby.

Not a flaw. Lake Granby is man-made. The article states that Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO, which is in fact, true.

I can’t believe Ouray wasn’t on the list.

Tourist from back east has visited Ouray several times. Great area to visit, hike and view mountains. Definitely an oversite! Friendly. Great camping nearby Norman and Linda

This brings back memories. Thank you so much.

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Insider Families

Family Travel, the Outdoors & Parenting

97 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Colorado

Colorado is our home. We spend a lot of time exploring the entire state and taking advantage of all it has to offer families. From Colorado’s mountain towns to Denver & Boulder, there’s so much for kids and adults alike. Here are just a few of our favorite things to do with kids in Colorado, categorized by age, season and more.

Planning a trip to Colorado and curious about family-friendly activities? Whether you’re a Colorado resident seeking ways to entertain your kids on a day off or a visitor, there’s a wide range of options to explore. You can immerse yourselves in the majestic mountains, delve into the rich culture and art scenes in the cities, enjoy winter wonderland activities in the snow, or cool off with water adventures in the summer. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of our top 97 kid-friendly activities in Colorado!

New Things to Do with Kids in Colorado

Casa bonita.

June 2023 was the re-opening of one of Colorado’s most famous family attractions, Casa Bonita. Renowned for family fun, though not its food, Casa Bonita opened under new ownership in June of 2023. A new chef re-designed the menu, so that now it can hopefully be known both for fun and food. A major renovation restored the original design while cleaning it up. We are looking forward to seeing cliff divers and the lagoon but now while enjoying good food.

Meow Wolf Denver

Meow Wolf Santa Fe draws us to the city different about once a year. A multi-dimensional, multi-sensory place of discovery and imagination that was born of art, Meow Wolf is an ideal place to cultivate kids’ love of art. Here at Convergence Station Colorado-based artists have brought a different story to life.

Created from trash, or old recycled electronics, Convergence Station tells the story of a cosmic event that displaces citizens into four distinct worlds.

Slick City Action Park

Slick City Action Park is the world’s first Indoor slide (with no water) located in Denver. If you are looking for a place to burn off some energy on a cold day, this place has you covered. There are a ton of slides to whiz down, or race friends on. It is also a birthday party hit.

Adventure Forest at Children’s Museum of Denver

Adventure Forest, at Children’s Museum of Denver, is a 500 ft. long aerial adventure course laced with a hidden journey. Kids can push their limits of bravery and strength on the chimney climb or spider web. They can get an adrenaline rush whooshing past rainbow prisms in the 70 ft. slides. Or they can decode a secret language or discover unique treasures.

Things to Do with Toddlers in Colorado

Goat Happy Hour

Happy hour may indicate an adult outing. But that isn’t the case at Vail Stables where all ages will enjoy feeding the cute goats, seeing the horses and playing in the yard. There’s something stress reducing about hanging out with goats in an alpine environment. As much as adults enjoy it, toddlers will be the most in awe of the cute goats eating from their hands.

Play at a splash pad

We think of the mountain of Colorado as a cool summertime destination. But the reality is that summer can get hot, even in Colorado. There’s nothing better, as a toddler. than running through cool water spraying from the ground, on a hot summer day. Splash pads abound. Our favorites are located outside of Union Station in Denver and in Vail Village (the Children’s Fountain).

This might be a silly idea anywhere but the mountains of Colorado. Colorado’s ski resorts are known for their free and convenient buses. In Vail Village these run about ever 10 minutes and make a loop all the way from Golden Peak to the west end of Lionshead Village . This was a favorite activity of our daughter’s as a toddler. To this day our kids still love to do this when it isn’t too crowded.

Ride a Train

Colorado’s mining history also means that there are several operating historic trains in the state, with stunning mountain views . These will all appeal to toddlers. Our son still talks about the time is grandmother and grandfather took him on a train ride in Leadville. The school that our kids attend takes an annual trip to the Georgetown train. And, the Durango and Silverton Railroad and the Colorado Railroad Museum both offer magical Polar Express train rides during the holidays.

Ride a Gondola

Ski resorts about in the mountain of Colorado. Most boast heated, enclosed gondolas. These are the perfect vehicle for toddlers to take in a ride up the mountain. The views are spectacular and it is certainly a different way to travel. Typically there is also some sort of playground, adventure park or hiking trails atop the mountain to enjoy once you arrive.

Play at a Park

Obvious, but one that can’t be left off the list. In our small mountain town we have a dozen parks. All of these have slides, swings and other play features. These parks also offer trees and covered picnic areas. What kid isn’t entertained at a park? Often this is a place for both kids and parents to make new friends.

Take a Hike

Colorado is known for its spectacular wildflower hikes. There’s no time better than now to introduce your kids to hiking in the great outdoors. Start small. Find an easy hiking trail with lots of interesting things for the kids. A couple of our favorites are Rifle Falls and Sylvan Lake State Park.

What to Do with Teens in Colorado

Colorado offers many places to zipline, from the top of a mountain to old mining areas. Whizzing through the air harnessed to a rope is sure to thrill even the pickiest teen.

Ropes Courses

Challenge or Ropes Courses also abound in the mountains of Colorado. They can be found at the top of mountains, in historic mining areas and on ranches. The thrill of whizzing across a valley in a harness is sure to thrill most teens.

Axe Throwing

In recent years, a rather unexpected pastime has been making its way into the mainstream: axe throwing . This thrilling and unique sport has gained popularity throughout Colorado. From YMCA of the Rockies to Vail Cascade, there are plenty of opportunities for your teen to learn how to axe throw. It is not your typical sport. But certainly will be a memorable experience.

Snow Tubing

Snow tubing can be found in many ski resort towns. Similar to sledding, but typically on a man made course. Ski resorts and ski towns have built these tubing hills to be steep and have several lanes. You can race friends or even go together in a group.

Insider Tip: Here are some of the best snow tubing hills in Colorado !

Moonlight Snowshoing

Snowshoing to the light of a full moon is a rare way to have fun late-night without getting into trouble. Meadow Mountain in Minturn is a Vail area favorite spot to go for a moonlight snowshoe hike. But there are also a couple of great mountain hikes to take you to a unique dinner. Snowshoe Bachelor Gulch (Beaver Creek) to Zach’s Cabin for dinner or appetizers and hot cocoa, or snowshoe to dinner in a yurt at Tennessee Pass, near Leadville .

Escape Rooms

Escape Rooms are a great, fun team-building activity. They offer a few different adventures of varying difficulty. This is also a good activity for a rainy day, or a day when there’s just not enough energy for a mountain adventure.

Paddleboarding

For kids who like the water, this is a way to get away from it all. They can get out on a calm lake for some serenity. Now there are river parks that also offer a little more exciting variety of paddleboarding. The more advanced SUPers can get out on the river.

Insider Tip: Check out some of our favorite lakes in Colorado .

Have a hard time getting your teen away from a device? Take a glamping trip where there’s no WiFi. Our family recently visited Piney Lake Vail to do just this. It is a sure fire way to get quality time with your teen, or younger children too. Hike, fish, wildlife watch, canoe and roast s’mores by the campfire. Colorado has some spectacular glamping destinations .

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Colorful hot air balloons rising into the sky in the early hours of the morning may be one of the most beautiful sights. Our entire family watches transfixed until they disappear from sight. So, what better than taking your teen on a hot air balloon ride? There are several locations throughout Colorado where this activity is available. We were lucky enough to experience the Snowmass Hot Air Balloon Festival .

Things to Do with Kids In the Winter

Ice Castles

The magical Ice Castles were founded by a father who moved with his family from California to the mountains. He then started building igloos and ice structures in his backyard for his daughter. The display in Dillon takes up a little less than an acre and includes towers, tunnels, a fountain and a slide to crawl through. It is all made of ice in a castle like structure. The twinkling lights in snow and ice are sure to charm kids of all ages. Plus there are ice slides to whiz down!

Ski and Snowboard

Colorado is known for its epic skiing, so perhaps this should go without saying. No, it shouldn’t! There is so much that skiing can teach kids and adults alike. It is a sport that all kids should have the chance to try out. It can teach resilience, build confidence and is just plain fun.

Sledding may be the most underrated Colorado winter sport. Every neighborhood or golf course has a few sledding hills and the only cost is the acquisition of a speedy sled. You do need a little snow but there is typically lots of that during the winter in Colorado.

Slightly different than sledding, snow tubing offers the ease of being transported up the hill. It is a more controlled environment and there is a cost associated with it. Snow tubing can be found in most mountain towns in Colorado and is a ton of fun. It is even possible to hold multiple tubes together and fly down the hill as a family or group of friends.

Ice Skating

Colorado is a hockey state. Kids grow up near ice skating rinks. Not only does Colorado have plenty of indoor rinks but many of the ski towns also boast outdoor ice skating rinks . I can’t tell you how much joy it brought me to be able to hang skates in the garage and just grab them on our way to the local free outdoor skating rink.

Ice Bumper Cars

This activity doesn’t necessarily have to be a winter activity. There are indoor ice skating rinks throughout the state that offer this fun activity year round. But because it is on ice and there are outdoor rinks that offer it seasonally, we’ve included it here. Fun for all ages, these inflatable cars that glide on ice to bump into one another are available at several locations throughout Colorado. From Vail and Steamboat Springs to Gaylord Rockies in winter, be sure to include ice bumper cars on your list!

Build a Snowman or Snow Fort

This might be easier done on the front range than in the mountains. It is rare that the snow in Colorado’s high country is wet enough for easily building a snowman or snow fort. But we do have those days. Some of the most fun we’ve had as a family was building snowmen and having snowball fights on these wet snow days.

Go for a Hot Cocoa Treat

The first snowy day of the year the kids are so excited to play in the snow. They spend a couple of hours out in the cold. And, I always try to have a hot cocoa waiting for them when they are ready to come in and warm up. But going out for a gourmet hot cocoa can also be a special treat.

Special Activities for Kids During the Holidays

Holiday Lights

Who doesn’t love taking in sparkling holiday lights in the snow? Colorado is the perfect place to do this. From the Denver Botanic Gardens and Denver Zoo to just about any mountain town, you can find spectacular holiday lights to enjoy. Make sure to stop for hot cocoa during or after your holiday light viewing!

Ride the Polar Express

Getting to the North Pole from Colorado may be easier than you expect. At least if you and your family can get lost in your imagination. Book either the Durango and Silverton Railroad or the Colorado Railroad Museum Polar Express Train to help you live out the story of the Polar Express.

Oxford Hotel Dolls’ Tea

Available only one day, in December, any child who loves dolls and dance is sure to be thrilled to experience this classic tea party featuring tea, sandwiches, hot cocoa and treats. The highlight of the Dolls’ Tea Party is a whimsical ballet performance by the Arvada Dance Center. The children have an opportunity to meet the ballerinas and take photos with them after the show.

Visit a Ski Mountain

Well skiing is what Colorado is known for. If you are in Colorado for the winter you most certainly should head to the mountain for a ski trip. From small resorts with affordable ski lessons to luxury ski resorts with warm chocolate chip cookies as you come down the slopes at the end of the day you are sure to find a ski mountain that your family will love. If you don’t ski, it might still be worth a visit to ride the gondola to the top of the mountain.

Tree Lightings

Holiday celebrations and tree lights abound starting during Thanksgiving. In addition to tree lighting ceremonies, many ski resorts set off colorful fireworks . There are also plenty of other festivities such as Christmas markets and caroling. Photos with Santa may also be available.

Christmas Markets

Europe may be known for their Christmas markets, but Colorado is making an attempt at their own versions. Denver Christkindl Market is the largest and best known Christmas market in Colorado. Bavarian musicians entertain while baked apples, gingerbread biscuits and spicy mulled wine (gluehwein) delight the taste buds. There are several other Christmas markets throughout Colorado also worth visiting.

Visit Santa at Union Station

A historic train station can be pretty cool all on its own, but add in Santa, holiday lights, carolers and a 40′ Christmas tree and it is sure to be a hit. All of this can be found at Denver Union Station starting Thanksgiving weekend. Make a weekend of it and stay over at the Crawford Hotel.

Last but not least, the holidays are a fantastic time to teach your children to give back . Yes, we should do this year round. But the holidays just happen to be a time when it is especially important to think of others.  There are so many ways to do this. You can adopt a family and buy a family in need holiday gifts. You can volunteer serving food, or make donations to a food bank. One of our favorites is to help assemble Thanksgiving dinner boxes with our local Salvation Army and then deliver those. We also like to bake cookies to take to the senior center down the street.

Things to Do with Kids In the Summer

Get out in nature. Take a hike, and bring a picnic along. Colorado has so many hiking trails for just about any ability. Hike to a waterfall. Surprisingly, there are quite a few waterfalls throughout Colorado . For the more adventurous, or athletics kids hike a Fourteener. Plan to hit the trail very early as thunderstorms can roll in in the afternoon.

Horseback Riding

There are so many fun outdoor activities in the summer that I feel like Colorado horseback riding often gets forgotten. This is truly a wonderful way to see the spectacular mountain views. You can travel even further into nature than on foot. Most horseback riding outfits have expert guides to tell you about the local flora and fauna. It is an experience not to miss!

Mountain Bike

You kids need to be proficient bikers before taking this one on. But Colorado is home to a variety of different skill level trails. These are rated just like ski slopes with green being the easiest, blue moderate and black advanced. Some of the most fun I have had is riding a new trail with friends.

QuietKat is a high end eBike company based out of our home town. Click the photo above to learn more.

Ride an eBike

Colorado seems to be a hub for ebikes. And, with good reason. There are beautiful paved trails that run along rivers, and single tracks that run up and down mountains. It is a pretty scenic place to bike. An ebike can get you further out into nature. From electric bike rentals to ebike tours there are plenty of options.

If you are wondering what an ebike is, find out here !

White Water River Rafting

I am not a fan of the cold water. So out family didn’t try this until earlier in the summer. For Father’s Day Eagle area outfitter, Timberline Tours, offers a special float trip for fathers and their families. It is an easy float trip so our six-year-old was able to go and enjoy it as much as we did. Floating down the river is a great way to take in Colorado’s landscapes and enjoy family and friends.

Possibly the best way to spend time outdoors, camping does take some preparation and planning. Unfortunately our family is not very good at choosing timing very well. We end up camping on cold and rainy weekends, making our family camping trips quite the adventure . It is a great way to spend real quality time with family and friends. Go somewhere with no WiFi or devices and just spend time with your people.

Go Glamping

Want to get your feet wet with camping? Not sure you really are ready to rough it with your family? Try glamping. There so much less set up and typically your glamping site will include a real bed. Get to sleep in a tent but in a real bed. That’s a winner in my book!

There is a variety of RV parks in Colorado offering lots of family fun. Most offer swimming pools and there is even one with a bowling alley. Many are near the state’s national parks so with easy access to some special places. There are also several options for renting RVs. RVs offer much more protection from the elements than camping but with the same access to nature.

Take in an Outdoor Concert

Colorado is known for its outdoor music scene. Red Rocks Amphitheater is perhaps the crown jewel of Colorado’s outdoor amphitheaters. But music abounds throughout the state. You can hear the New York Philharmonic in Vail. Or, take in a real opera at Central City Opera. You might just come across live music in one of the state’s many mountain towns.

Explore a Ghost Town

Colorado’s ghost towns certainly have an uncanny mystery to them that makes you want to stop in for a visit. You may simply want to investigate and learn more of the history of what caused residents to abandon their homes and town. From Ashcroft to Crystal, garb the metal detector or just your sense of adventure and head out into old Colorado for an adventure.

Paddle Boarding or Canoeing

There are lots of lakes in Colorado. Take advantage of the warm summer weather to get out on the water on a paddle board or in a canoe. It is never to early to start the kids on the water.

Visit a Mountain Town

Whether as a day trip or a family weekend getaway, Colorado’s mountain towns offer fun for all. Visit Leadville or Central City for old architecture and mining history. Or, visit Vail or Snowmass for a Colorado ski town experience.

Explore for Dinosaur Bones at Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaurs were first discovered in Dinosaur Ridge and has since become one of the world’s most famous dinosaur fossil destinations. Dinosaur Ridge is located near Morrison. Kids of all ages will enjoy exploring the excavation sites and seeing exposed fossils.

Go for an Ice Cream Treat

What kids doesn’t love ice cream on a hot summer day?! So many delicious ice cream shops abound throughout the state.

Fun Activities for Kids In the Mountains

Ride an alpine coaster.

A Colorado alpine coaster ride offers a fun way to speed down mountain slopes. No lessons necessary. Anyone who is 38″ or taller can ride with an adult and enjoy taking in Colorado’s amazing mountain views while getting an adrenaline rush from this thrill ride.

Visit Colorado Hot Springs

The mountains of Colorado boast an impressive hot springs loop. Spanning over 720 miles, the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop is a trek to some of the state’s most beautiful mineral waters. Each destination along the Hot Springs Loop has something different for visitors. The Loop includes Ouray and Ridgway, Glenwood Springs, Chaffee County, Pagosa Springs and Steamboat Springs. Each of the nineteen facilities included on this loop offer unique features like vapor caves, hot pots, terraced pools, enormous travertine formations or fun-filled aquatic centers.

Be sure to check out our round up of hot springs near Denver !

Take on a Challenge Course

Most ski resorts offer mountain playgrounds either at the base or top of the mountain. In addition to alpine coasters these also typically include some type of ropes or challenge course. This is a fun way to push your limits and take in mountain views.

Mountain biking is a sport made for Colorado. There are trails throughout the state for all abilities. It is such a great sport to enjoy as a family too. Work hard going up the hill so that you can enjoy the ride down.

Explore a Cave

There’s actually a variety of caves throughout Colorado . One of our favorites is at Glenwood Caverns and Adventure Park. This is a fun and educational experience for the entire family. And, a great way to cool down on a hot day.

Take a Train Ride

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado to view some spectacular mountain scenery and wildlife, there are several different Colorado train rides to consider. It is a unique way to see the Rocky Mountains. And, during the holidays you can even catch the Polar Express or a Santa train.

Museums to Visit with Kids

Denver museum of nature & science.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is ideal for kids ages six and up. You won’t want to miss an IMAX film here. The films are entertaining and educational. They change out periodically, so check what’s playing before you go. We learned how astronauts live in space, how the planet is changing and more.

Denver Aquarium

Generally the Denver Aquarium is great for younger kids, even though anyone can enjoy the colorful marine life and interactive exhibits. A family fun restaurant has walls made of a 50,000 gallon centerpiece aquarium. This state-of-the-art aquarium housing 500+ species offers interactive exhibits. Currently there’s even a shark cage experience!

Denver Botanic Gardens

Ideal for all ages, the Denver Botanic Gardens is 23-acre park boasting a conservatory with a variety of themed gardens. Mordecai Children’s Garden is a place for children to explore plants and the natural world, through hands­-on experiences and play. It is also the perfect place to cool off in the summer, with a fun wading stream. Though our favorite time of the year to visit may be for the holiday lights.

Children’s Museum of Denver

Best for babies up to kids about ten years old, the Children’s Museum of Denver is a family favorite. A three-year old won’t want leave the lifelike fire station by the entrance. A seven-year old will settle in at the market and kitchen to make new friends and play. The Museum even offers kids cooking classes. Make sure to sign up for those as soon as you arrive. The play area outside is great for young ones, but older kids will also enjoy the new Adventure Forest.

One of the most popular attractions in Denver, the Denver Zoo is an 80-acre zoological garden. It is is home to more than 3,500 animals. It is all a majestic experience. But feeding the giraffes is certainly a highlight. And, younger kids will love the train that takes them throughout the zoo.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

This zoo located in Colorado Springs is a family favorite. There’s the opportunity to really get close to the animals. The sky lift is especially fun. It offers a breathtaking birds eye view to see all the entire zoo.

Other Museums

For other ideas of fun museums to take your kids to check out our post on Best Museums for Art, Nature & Science .

Things to Do with Kids On the Water

I am not a fisherman, but watching my kids give it a go is wonderful. In an age of electronic devices, being out in nature and seeing them so calm and serene makes me happy.

There are some neighborhoods such as Eagle Ranch with their own fishing pond for the kids.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Did you know that you can stand up paddle board so many places now? If you don’t have your own, then you should be able to rent one at one of the many beautiful alpine lakes throughout Colorado .

Tubing the River

We have a stream just down the path from our house. Once the early summer snow melt off subsides, our kids are out there all the time. They skip rocks, race boats and tube down the river.

Rent a canoe on a calm lake and enjoy the scenery. There are many places to do this, but our favorite may be at Piney River Ranch near Vail.

While kayaking is a popular sport, it is for the mere adventurous. Our rivers are amazing, and cold. There’s no way you aren’t going to get soaked kayaking. These days you can take a duckie, inflatable kayak, out on the lake for a more serene water experience.

White water rafting is for the older and more adventurous kids. Though it is possible to start on calmer waters. Some float companies offer family friendly float trips. And, others require that the kids be seven and up. It all depends on the class of rapids that the boat will be navigating.

So, when you think of swimming you probably think of going to a swimming pool. Our kids also swim in the river. And, there are plenty of lakes with their own beaches great for swimming.

Things to Do with History Loving Kids

Visit a Castle

Believe it, or not, the state of Colorado is also home to some incredible castles and structures that have historical significance, along with some that are just fascinating to see. One of these on our list is entirely made from beer cans and scraps of metal, while another is a natural structure that a city was named after. Some of these already have historical significance. But the ones that don’t yet, likely will in the future.

Tour an Old Mine or Mining Museum

Visit Leadville, Colorado and spend some time at the Mining Museum Hall of Fame. Or, tour the Matchless Mine and visit the home where Baby Doe spent her final years. Colorado’s mining history is enthralling.

Molly Brown House

Margaret “Molly” Brown’s was an activist and philanthropist who was also known as “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” after surviving the sinking of the Titanic.  In the 1970s Historic Denver carefully restored this historic home to its original Victorian splendor. Molly Brown’s story is a story of rags to riches and a woman who set out to make a difference.

Colorado Capitol Building

The Colorado Capitol Building in Denver offers free tours Monday through Friday. You will learn about how the capitol’s original signature dome was made of copper, but was swapped out for gold in 1908 due to the copper’s tendency to oxidize. You’ll leave with a fondness for this historic building, more informed about the work of our General Assembly and our unique Colorado heritage.

Denver Mint

More than 40 million coins are produced everyday at the Denver Mint. Here you will want to make reservations for one of their free tours to see an estimated $100 billion worth of solid gold bars.

Walking Tour of Union Station

Take a walking tour of Denver’s Union Station to learn more about the train station’s unique history. It originally opened in 1881 and once greeted nearly 80 trains per day. Learn about the rail services available, the building’s massive collection of custom Western art, as well as the independent Colorado retailers and restaurants that now occupy the historic building.

Things to Do with Art & Culture Loving Kids

Show at the denver performing arts center.

Plenty of kid-friendly shows make their way through the Denver Performing Arts Center. Enjoy classics brought to life on stage such as Good Night Moon where all your favorite characters in the Great Green Room spring to life on stage. Or take your teen to Mean Girls , straight off of Broadway.

Central City Opera

Central City Opera located just outside of Denver in a truly historic part of the state also offers a variety of kids programs. From a glimpse into backstage at an opera house to the Family Matinee there’s sure to be something for your family.

Meow Wolf 2021

I know, I’ve already mentioned this. But there really isn’t a better way to engage your child’s interest in art. In a day and age when kids too often hear “be careful” and “don’t touch that,” Meow Wolf encourages the opposite. I’ve never experienced anything quite so interactive, adventurous or stimulating to the imagination. But most importantly, Meow Wolf is FUN.

Denver Art Museum

Denver Art Museum offers kid-friendly programing. But our favorite exhibit, sadly has departed. Our daughter loved the the “DIOR: From Paris to the World” Exhibit that showcased 70 years of the House of Dior with more than 200 couture dresses. This was at the DAM winter 2018-2019. What will they top that with? There’s also a fun restaurant on site.

Things to Do with Kids on a Rainy Day

Visit an indoor water park.

A couple of years ago, Great Wolf Lodge, opened in Colorado Springs. It was the first indoor water park in Colorado . And, is is a perfect way to enjoy a rainy or winter day. You can just almost think that you are in a tropical place. The may water slides and other water features are sure to keep the kids entertained until they become little raisins.

Visit a Climbing Gym

Climbing gyms are a great way to get some exercise and introduce kids to this sport in a less intimidating way. It is a popular sport in Colorado so most communities have their own climbing gym available for a daily entry fee.

Take on i ndoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel, participants become a part of an elite training program for youth flyers.

Lava island

Jump, climb and play at this indoor park with 15000 square feet of trampolines, 23 themed climbing walls, and 21000 square feet of ladders, slides and mazes.

Play laser tag, an arcade, a roller coaster simulator & mini-golf at this amusement center slash restaurant.

Spider Monkey

This 46,000-square-foot indoor air sports park in Aurora offers an obstacle course over a foam pit, dodge ball, slack lines, hoops, aerial silks, battle beams, a climbing wall and zip lines.

Jump Street

Two Jump Street locations in Denver offer lots of trampolines , trampoline dodge ball, inflatables to slide on, a foam pit to dive into and a mechanical bull to ride.

Jungle Quest

Zip through the air at this indoor jungle-themed playground. Get harnessed in then let the kids wear themselves our swinging and zip lining.

Let the kids try their hand at swinging a bowling ball down the alley. One of our kids loves bowling so much that he even had a bowling birthday party.

Visit a Library

Most libraries have fun kids programs. Nowadays some even have spaces with 3D printers and more. And, if all else fails, check out some books!

Where to Visit a National Park with Kids

Colorado is home to four national parks and eight national monuments . Be sure to put these on your Colorado -must-experience with kids list!

This UNESCO World Heritage Site  is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. Mesa Verde offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home from A.D. 600 to A.D. 1300. Plus it is just fun for kids to be able to climb into the cliff dwellings..

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park offers spectacular hikes, wildflowers, wildlife and starry nights. The park offers short, easy hiking trails such as Bear Loop and Coyote Valley that reward visitors with stunning views, as well as wildlife and wild flower sightings. Or, your family may want to go fishing or take a horseback ride.

Be sure to check our Grand Lake and other Colorado mountain cabins in this area of the state for a socially distanced getaway.

Great Sand Dunes National Monument

Situated in southern Colorado, surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, these tallest sand dunes in north America are remote, and surprising. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is in the middle of a very diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, conifer and aspen forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. The snow melt off and Medona Creek feeds a natural underground reservoir. The water supplies a nearby tilapia farm turned alligator farm, as well as natural hot springs.

Colorado National Monument

At Colorado National Monument you will have the opportunity to see the most spectacular sunsets, a blood moon, wildlife such as Turkey Vultures, Black Widows, Big Horn Sheep and other wildlife. This may also be one of the most spectacular landscapes in Colorado. And, that says something.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

This canyon has a rare combination of extraordinary depth, narrowness, and darkness within a vertical space to create a dramatic landscape. Take a scenic drive, camp, hike or wildlife watch.

Dinosaur National Monument

Located in the northwestern corner of Colorado, Dinosaur National Monument crosses into Utah. Dinosaur remains are still visible in rock walls within the more than 800 paleontological sites. In 2019 Dinosaur National Monument received its International Dark Sky Park Designation recognizing the skies above Dinosaur National Monument as having an exceptional quality of natural darkness.

Royal Gorge Bridge

Not actually a national park, but the Royal Gorge Bridge in Southwestern Colorado is definitely worth checking out. It is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. that overlooks a breathtaking canyon. You can also take a cable car, or go ziplining!

What other things are there to do with kids in Colorado? We set out to write about 100, but ended up with 87. Surely we missed some. Let us know in the comments below!

• ← Family Guide to Vail Ice Skating
• Magical Ice Castles in Colorado: A 2023-2024 Return is on the Horizon →

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Liana Moore

Liana Moore is a third-culture kid with a hangover from those days that is a severe case of wanderlust. She is more comfortable driving the cliffs of Amalfi, Italy or the dirt roads of Costa Rica or attempting to decipher the street signs of Osaka, Japan than navigating the theme parks of Disney World. But she loves it all. She doesn't believe a vacation is complete without an adventure. Her husband and kids know well that "adventure" often is code for mishap or challenge and it usually results in a good story. They seek outdoor experiences whether in the mountains, on a beach or in the jungle of a tropical country. Her favorite vacation is... all the ones she hasn't yet taken, as well as those she plans on taking again. And, that list is so, so long. But she continues to extensively explore her home state of Colorado, spends lots of time wandering Texas, California, New Mexico, Costa Rica, Mexico, Norway and has even explored Kazakhstan.

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THE 10 BEST Colorado Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in colorado with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Central Business District
• Capitol Hill
• Five Points
• Cherry Creek
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Garden of the Gods

2. Denver Botanic Gardens

3. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain

4. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

5. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

6. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

7. National Museum of World War II Aviation

8. Denver Museum of Nature & Science

9. Coors Field

10. Trail Ridge Road

11. Denver Union Station

12. Denver Art Museum

13. Denver Zoo

14. Maroon Bells

15. Mount Blue Sky

16. Telluride Mountain Village Gondola

17. Argo Mill and Tunnel

18. Colorado National Monument

19. Fish Creek Falls

20. United States Air Force Academy

21. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

22. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

23. Cosmo's Magic Theater

24. Box Canyon Waterfall & Park

25. Main Street

26. Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

27. Pearl Street Mall

28. Cliff Palace

29. Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

30. Independence Pass

What travelers are saying

The 8 best places to go to find your own piece of Colorado

Sep 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Whether you’re on a family ski vacation or a romantic weekend for two, Colorado has you covered © Daniel Milchev / Getty Images

Rugged Colorado is famous for its spectacular landscapes, outdoor adventures and gorgeous Rocky Mountain getaways. The Centennial State is also home to a vibrant crop of hip and happening cities, fascinating historical sites and the best four-season weather just about anywhere.

Interstate highways zip between the state’s major hubs, though they can get packed with weekend warriors in season. The roads to more remote destinations are quieter, but be prepared for steep passes, hair-raising switchbacks and winter closures. Getting around Colorado by public transport is possible – just about – but you'll get more out of the state with a car.Here are the best places to visit in Colorado.

Best for a luxe romantic getaway

The sublime natural surroundings combined with the evident opulence of this iconic mountain town make Aspen a perfect place for a luxe getaway for two. This Victorian-era mountain resort lends itself to pampering, with plenty of five-star hotels offering full-service spas ( The Little Nell is a standout).

Aspen is small enough to enjoy on foot, so you won't have to drive to duck into the edgy Aspen Art Museum before snacking on a charcuterie platter at Meat & Cheese or having a cocktail at the historic J-Bar saloon. Annual festivals like the Food & Wine Classic or the Aspen Music Festival add a bonus excuse for a long weekend with your boo.

And this being Colorado, there’s always the great outdoors. Winter brings world-class skiing, as well as snowshoeing and cozy sleigh rides for two.

Planning tip: Summer is all about hiking. The twin peaks known as the Maroon Bells are just minutes away, and miles and miles of trails await. Picture serene walks passing gurgling creeks and aspen groves, with just the two of you and the big blue Colorado sky.

Best for arts and entertainment

In a state known for its bring-it-on outdoorsy ethos, Denver is the cultural megastar. From celebrated museums such as the Denver Art Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum to wacky  Meow Wolf Denver , the city bubbles over with art. Don’t overlook the city’s many public sculptures and the murals that drape across walls and sidings in neighborhoods such as RiNo and the Santa Fe Arts District.

For live entertainment, a trip to the Denver Performing Arts Complex is a no-brainer: this massive 10-theater complex gives equal billing to Broadway musicals, dramas, ballet, opera and the symphony orchestra. Smaller music and theater venues such as Dazzle Denver and the Curious Theatre make for an easy impromptu outing. Red Rocks Amphitheatre is just 15 miles down the road.

Planning tip:  Denver has four more major art museums, plus great art walks on the first Friday of every month and scores of small galleries hosting shows and events. 

3. Colorado Springs

Best for a family outing

A mix of urban and outdoorsy options makes Colorado Springs an easy go-to for family fun. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a surefire hit, offering hand-feeding experiences with giraffes, elephants and rhinos.  Garden of the Gods is a spectacular collection of red sandstone outcrops, mammoth boulders, jutting fins and exquisite pinnacles that can be explored on foot, by bike ( rentals are available at the visitor center) or even with a stroller.

Alternatively, head underground to the Cave of the Winds , which offers an easy introduction to caving plus a zipline and ropes course for big and small adventurers. When it comes to inspirational museums, it’s hard to beat the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum , with hands-on exhibits about the Games and top American athletes, and regular meet-and-greets with real Olympians. When the kids reach for their tablets, take a trip to Manitou Penny Arcade instead, where you can school them in the art of Galaga and Skee-Ball.

4. Breckenridge

Best for a winter basecamp

As winter basecamps go, you won't find one better than Breckenridge . For starters, it’s home to one of Colorado’s best and biggest ski resorts. Whether you’re on a family ski vacation or on the hunt for untamed powder, the spacious groomed slopes and high alpine bowls won’t disappoint. There’s tubing and snowshoeing for even more winter fun.

The town is within striking distance of five other first-rate winter resorts, including Keystone, Copper and Arapahoe Basin, and there’s even free bus service between them. For some après ski fun, Breck’s quaint historic district – this was a working mountain town before the chairlifts got here – buzzes with life, with spots like  Breckenridge Brewery creating a genuine community feel. You'll find all this just two hours from Denver International Airport.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park

Best for hiking and wildlife spotting

The crown jewel of Colorado’s national parks, Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s wonderland. Some 355 miles of top-notch hiking trails traverse terrain that ranges from sculpted granite mountain tops to gorgeous flower-filled valleys. To ease in, consider the flat but rewarding trail around Bear Lake or the moderate hike to Gem Lake in the Lumpy Ridge area. Travelers with more ambition and strong legs are lured by the epic challenge of summiting 14,259ft Longs Peak.

Planning tip: Keep your eyes peeled for animals, big and small. Some 280 species of birds have been spotted in Rocky Mountain National Park, including great horned owls, bald eagles and ptarmigan. Elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer and moose also make regular appearances in these rocky valleys.

6. Telluride

Best for soaking up Colorado's beauty

The tiny town of Telluride is gorgeous and utterly unique – and all the more alluring because of the journey along backcountry roads to get here. Deep in the San Juan Mountains, the town is ensconced at the end of a narrow box canyon, surrounded on three sides by epic mountain scenery and the 365ft Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s highest waterfall.

The town’s long main street features charming century-old buildings, today filled with shops ranging from the simple to the chi-chi. Nearby, the Jud Wiebe Trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of the town and the mountains, while the local via ferrata course – a cable-protected scramble high on the surrounding cliffs – is simply heart-stopping.

7. Mesa Verde National Park

Best for First Nations story

The country’s largest and best-preserved Native American archaeological site, Mesa Verde National Park is a spectacular introduction to the ancient Ancestral Puebloan people (not Anasazi, which means "ancient enemy" in the Navajo language). People lived here for centuries in elaborate structures built into high cliff walls before abruptly abandoning the site around 1300 CE.

The park has several DIY hikes, but by far the best way to experience the site is on ranger-led tours that take visitors inside Mesa Verde’s famous cliff dwellings via wood-pole ladders, stone stairways and narrow tunnels. The Cliff Palace , an amazing engineering achievement with 150 rooms and 23 kivas (underground ceremonial spaces), is a definite highlight. Tours are not for the faint of heart, but they are a one-of-a-kind experience.

8. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Best for unexpected landscapes

As you pass through the jagged Sangre de Cristo Mountains and into the arid San Luis Valley, a massive dune field appears as if from nowhere – welcome to Great Sand Dunes National Park . This sprawling 30 sq mile expanse of sand is a surreal sight in a state better known for mountains, forests and rushing rivers, and it's home to the tallest dunes in North America, standing some 750ft in height.

Hiking up the dunes can be challenging because of the shifting sand, but the reward is an otherworldly view from the top. For a thrill, rent special wooden boards for dune-surfing and slide down the sandy slopes.

Planning tip: If you time it right, you can even enjoy a beach day beside the dunes – in late spring, the seasonal Medano Creek is born from snowmelt that flows down from the mountains, creating a brief oasis for wading and water play. You can't enjoy it for long – the water disappears by mid-summer.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated September 2023

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One-Week Colorado Itinerary For Families: Excellent for This Summer!

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This one-week Colorado itinerary for families is an excellent way to spend your summer vacation! From the beautiful red rock scenery of Colorado Springs to the rushing rapids of the Colorado River right outside Glenwood Springs , there are so many ways to appreciate Colorado in the summer. On this one-week Colorado itinerary for families , we’ve compiled a list of possible things to do and see on your Colorado road trip, starting and ending our itinerary in Denver for the most accuracy. Of course, feel free to swap out, add, or amend anything you’d like – this is simply a guide to help you plan. Here’s our One-Week Colorado Itinerary For Families: Excellent for This Summer!

Day 1: Land in Denver, Drive to Colorado Springs

Start your one-week Colorado itinerary for families by landing at Denver International Airport . Serviced by major U.S. airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, United, American, etc., there are multiple flights in and out every day. From there, you can drive straight to Colorado Springs , known for its beautiful scenery, countless parks, and outdoor adventures. If you plan to stick around Denver for a bit, don’t forget to book your tickets to these family-friendly Denver attractions !

On your 7-day Colorado road trip with kids , it’s an ideal place to make your home base because you won’t be far from Denver, Pikes Peak, and other fantastic places we’ll get into later on this itinerary. Though you can always feel free to spend more time here, we recommend two nights in Colorado Springs when you’re planning a week-long vacation in Colorado. 

Look here for a stay in Colorado Springs with VRBO!

Day 2: Pikes Peak, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, Downtown Colorado Springs

Explore the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids on the second day of your one-week Colorado itinerary for families. First, head to Pikes Peak, the second-highest peak in Colorado and one of the most popular tourist destinations. The Pikes Peak Summit Highway offers panoramic views and stops along the way to enjoy a picnic lunch. After, drive toward Colorado Springs to visit Garden of the Gods , a nature center with breathtaking rock formations. Kids will love climbing on them! For dinner, head downtown to restaurants like Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub & Restaurant . 

Ready to book your tour to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods? Book now using Viator.

If you have an extra day in Colorado Springs, animal lovers can’t miss the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo . Nestled in the mountainside just a few miles south of downtown Colorado Springs, this zoological park will impress all ages. With lions, elephants, hippos, and more for kids to see, the entire family will have a ton of fun touring the dynamic exhibits, from   “Encounter Africa” to “ Water’s Edge: Africa “. Once you’re done seeing the animals, there are other fun activities for kids. Try riding the Historic Carousel or Mountaineer Sky Ride ! Wear comfortable shoes because the property is huge, but there’s also a shuttle.

Then, check out these 12 Adventurous Things To Do in Colorado Springs Kids Will Love!

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs with Kids

Planning a trip to Colorado with kids and looking for the best hotels in Colorado Springs for families ? To stay on the beautiful shores of Cheyenne Lake, book the iconic Broadmoor , which has summer activities for all ages. For a homier feel, try the Cheyenne Mountain Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort , located on a private lake. Want to stay inside a private country club near the best sights in town? You’ll like the Garden of the Gods Resort and Club . Of course, kids will love the indoor water park at the Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs ! 

Read our 7 Hotels in Colorado Springs that Families Will Love for more suggestions on where to stay! 

Day 3: Cave of the Winds, Then Head to Aspen

A Colorado road trip with kids should include a stop at Cave Of The Winds Mountain Park . West of Colorado Springs, near the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, this multi-complex has a cave, a cafe, a challenge course, and more adventures for all ages. Families can see the cave on a standard, hour-long Discovery Tour . Or, take a creepier Haunted Lantern Tour to explore dark tunnels, curving passageways, and spooky stairs.

Other activities include a challenge course, zip-lining, and even fun aerial rides. From there, drive to Glenwood Springs, a scenic town set in the Rocky Mountains. If you have time to stop along the way during your 7-day Colorado road trip with kids , you can visit Aspen, which is around an hour away. 

For more travel planning, consult our list of Fantastic Colorado Summer Vacation Ideas Your Family Will Love ! 

Optional: Stop in Aspen

During your Colorado trip with kids , you may want to make a stop in Aspen. Famous for its luxury resorts, high-end restaurants, and upscale boutiques, there are plenty of things to do in Aspen with kids during the summer. Go white water rafting with Rafting Aspen or Aspen White Water to take in amazing views and get an adrenaline rush.

Then, take advantage of the gorgeous weather and soak up the sun by hiking to the Maroon Bells . It’s one of the most photographed spots in Colorado! For more beautiful scenery, drive Independence Pass through the Continental Divide . Or, ride the Silver Queen Gondola for an aerial view. End your day with dinner in downtown Aspen. Families love options like White House Tavern and Ajax Tavern . Or, French Alpine Bistro – Crêperie du Village for sweet and savory crepes. 

Please note : The Aspen rafting companies travel to Glenwood Springs and put-in on both the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River. They both run through Glenwood Springs and the Roaring Fork ends (confluences) into the Colorado River. Families may decide to opt for other activities in Aspen and book their rafting experience while in Glenwood Springs instead.

Day 4: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Depending on how long you stay in Aspen, the next stop on your Colorado road trip with kids should be Glenwood Springs. Famous for its Glenwood Hot Springs, this all-year-round destination offers lots of family fun. Here is also where you’ll find the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park , accessible via a scenic gondola ride up Iron Mountain. There’s an adventure park with kiddie rides for all ages, games like laser tags, plus two caves to explore. Book an early time slot for The Fairy Caves Tour , which lasts about 40 minutes, and involves minimal walking.

Then, after a long day of exploring, there’s nothing like soaking your muscles at the Iron Mountain Hot Springs to appreciate Colorado’s natural beauty! Please note, however, that this is best for adults and late teens. Families with younger children can enjoy the nearby heated freshwater pool. Certainly, on your trip to Colorado with kids , this will be a huge hit.

Day 5: Water Rafting on the Colorado River, Glenwood Hot Springs

Glenwood Springs is one of the best vacation spots in Colorado for outdoor enthusiasts. On the fifth day of your one-week Colorado itinerary for families , head to the Colorado River to go water rafting ! There are multiple tour companies to book an excursion rafting the Colorado River, taking you through Glenwood Canyon and then through Glenwood Springs, including Glenwood Adventure Company ; Glenwood Canyon Rafting ; and Whitewater Rafting LLC. Another great company for families is Defiance Rafting , which offers a half-day rafting tour for beginners and more advanced adventurers.

Once you’re done with rafting, enjoy more fun in the water at Glenwood Hot Springs , featuring the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Families will love the Shoshone Chutes at the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool (an adventure river), the diving board, and a few other slides for kids to have fun.

Reserve this popular half-day trip b y D e f i a n c e R a f t i n g on Viator today!

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs with Kids

Glenwood Springs offers plenty of accommodations for a one-week Colorado itinerary for families. For a hotel stay, book a room at the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge or The Hotel Glenwood Springs . The Hotel Colorado is another great option. A lot of families also opt for rentals from Airbnb or Vrbo . Regardless of which you choose, you’ll love staying in Glenwood Springs on your Colorado trip with kids .

Day 6: Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is an outdoor playground with so many things to do in the summer. As you drive back to Denver, take a detour to this lush green paradise around three and a half hours from Glenwood Springs. Reaching around 70-80 degrees, it’s abundant in elk, moose, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and deer. Cruise through trees, rivers, and alpine wildflowers on scenic drives like Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. Or, hike the Bear Lake Trail, the Alberta Falls Trail , and the Lily Lake Loop. Certainly, this is one of the best vacation spots in Colorado for families !

Then, make your way back to Estes Park , a cute mountain town nearby. Fans of The Shining can visit The Stanley Hotel where it was filmed to stay or enjoy dinner! It is a fun stop when planning a week vacation in Colorado with kids !

Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park with Kids

Families looking for somewhere to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park during their Colorado trip with kids can try The Stanley Hotel . For a more rugged, adventurous vacation, there’s also Estes Park Center -YMCA of the Rockies , which offers both lodge-style accommodations and yurts/campground options. Families can also choose to stay in an RV park or book various cabin rentals in the area. 

Here are the top-rated Vrbo stays near Rocky Mountain National Park!

Visiting Colorado in the winter instead? Read our review of an Exciting Colorado Getaway for Families: Snow Mountain Ranch -YMCA of the Rockies !

Day 7: Drive Back to Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheatre

On the last day of your one-week Colorado itinerary for families, drive back to Denver. You’ll most likely depart from here, so it’s a great way to explore anything you’ve missed. In Morrison outside of Denver, you can visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a famous outdoor venue for concerts and other events, situated in the foothills of the scenic Colorado Mountains. There are some easy trails for families providing spectacular views, and a variety of events too. Nearby, families can also venture to Dinosaur Ridge , where you can touch dinosaur bones!

Families can also spend the day in Denver exploring all the best things to do with kids . Visit the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus , Meow Wolf Denver , the Downtown Aquarium , the Denver Zoo , or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science ! With more time, head to the  Butterfly Pavilion  in Westminster (just north of the city and en route from Rock Mountain National Park to Denver), where you can hold a tarantula named Rosie. Regardless of which ones you choose to see, this is sure to be a wonderful end to planning a week vacation in Colorado with kids .

Research these Red Rocks Amphitheatre Tours and Activities through Viator today!

Purchase CityPass Denver here for discounted entry to the Children’s Museum of Denver, the Downtown Aquarium, the Denver Zoo, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science!

Where To Stay In Denver With Kids

There are so many places to stay in Denver during your 7-day Colorado road trip with kids . Kids will love the rooftop pool at the Westin Denver Downtown. And, they’ll also be impressed by the camping experience at the Ritz-Carlton, Denver . Kids who want a uniquely themed room can’t miss The Curtis Hotel , with accommodations inspired by Barbie, Ghost Busters , and even I Love Lucy.

Other great options include the Four Seasons Hotel Denver, the Hotel Clio (formerl y JW Marriott Denver Cherry Creek), and the Crawford Hotel . If you plan to stay an extra few days, check out the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center , just a few miles outside of Denver in Aurora. Kids will love the on-site water park with a lazy river and multiple pools! Find more hotels in Denver by reading about the 13 Best Denver Hotels For Families With Kids .

For more unique themed hotels in and around Colorado, read our list featuring the Best Themed Hotels On The West Coast For Families !

Happy Travels!

We hope you found this One-Week Colorado Itinerary For Families: Excellent for This Summer helpful in planning a week vacation in Colorado with kids ! From Denver to Colorado Springs, Estes Park, Aspen, and more, your next Colorado road trip with kids will be a fantastic one. Enjoy Colorado with your kids! 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Last Updated on 12 months by Antonia Grant

12 Can’t-Miss Things To Do In Colorado With Kids

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

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Colorado is just a dreamy as the photos make it look, and I promise that if you take a family trip to Colorado you’ll immediately want to go back for more! While there’s a huge variety of things to do in Colorado with kids, outdoor activities are really where The Centennial State shines.

In this guide, you’ll find some of the best things to do with kids in Colorado spanning the entire state and lots of insider tips for how to make your trip amazing.

Fun things to do in Colorado with kids outdoors

Enjoy the majesty of rocky mountain national park.

Rocky Mountain National Park is easily the crown jewel of most Colorado family vacations – it’s the reason why so many families choose to visit, and with good reason. The park’s scenery and wildlife are iconic, and Rocky Mountain National Park offers plenty of things to do with kids of all ages and abilities – check out our complete guide to visiting Rocky Mountain National Park with kids .

There are a few highlights of visiting Rocky Mountain National Park with kids: driving Trail Ridge Road, taking a few short hikes, spotting local wildlife, and completing the Junior Ranger program. You’ll want to spend at least two days exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, but potentially up to four or five.

We had the most amazing stay at The Ridgeline Hotel in Estes Park. It’s our kids’ favorite hotel ever thanks to the massive indoor pool where movies are projected on the wall, the all-hours game room and the outdoor fire pits to match the s’mores kits we were given at check in. It’s a total winner and walking distance to all of the restaurants and shops in town.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Colorado National Monument

Plan a family photo shoot

If there’s one thing I regret about our time in this gorgeous state, it’s that we didn’t schedule family photos. There are so many incredible photo spots in Colorado that make the perfect backdrop. Flytographer is an easy way to connect with local photographers who match your style and personality. There are options in Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs and more.

Why book family photos on vacation? We’ve managed to get some great ones with a tripod, but getting anything that looks remotely casual (unlike the photo above) with a tripod takes a ton of time and patience (which most kids just don’t have). The other option is that one parent (me) has to stay behind the lens. I love taking photographs, but sometimes it’s nice to actually be present in our high-quality family photographs!

Explore Estes Park

Thanks to Kim of Stuffed Suitcase

Estes Park is a cute Colorado mountain town with plenty to offer families looking for outdoor fun. Let’s start by mentioning that Estes Park is one of the best places to stay if you’re wanting to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is only a 10-minute drive away from the Beaver Creek Entrance and Visitors’ Center. Families can stop in here to get a Jr. Ranger book for kids before they drive through the park. Be sure to arrive early in the summer! Parking lots around the famous Bear Lake waterfall hiking trails fill up very early. Shuttles are available from the visitors’ center.

Even beyond the Park, there are plenty of great things to do in Estes Park with kids. In town, kids will love to go on a pika scavenger hunt. Pikas are a native to the area and there are 12 bronze sculptures hidden around town. You can download an activity guide online to help your kids locate all the pikas. Once they’ve found them all they can turn their book into the Estes Park Visitors’ Center and get a Pika Finder Button. The pikas are hidden around the main shopping district of town, making it a perfect activity that will allow adults to shop and stroll while the kids stay engaged. And make sure you grab some of the local ice cream or saltwater taffy while you explore!

And if the pika hunt is too childish for families with teens, perhaps a night tour at the haunted Stanley Hotel will bring some excitement. During the day the Stanley Hotel offers historical tours about its owner and famous visitors, including that it was the inspiration for  The Shining . But at night, the tour takes on a spookier feel, making it frightfully fun for teens.

If you haven’t had enough outdoor activity in the National Park, try rock climbing at YMCA of the Rockies, take a family bike ride around Estes Park or even go trout fishing nearby.

Estes Park has plenty more to offer families and is a great getaway for every season. There are plenty of unique  places to stay in Estes Park , making it a perfect Colorado family vacation destination.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Estes Park, Colorado here

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Experience the quiet side of the Rockies in Grand Lake

Thanks to Preethi of Local Passport Family

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular in the country, and with good reason. Still, only a small percentage of families make it over to the town of Grand Lake on the west side of the park. Situated at the western entrance to the National Park and by the Arapaho National Forest areas, the town is charming with stunning views and plenty to do for families of all ages.

Though named Grand Lake, the area actually has a number of lakes that are perfect for family-friendly recreation. It’s easy to rent a kayak or boat to go out on Grand Lake or Shadow Mountain Lake, or you can bring your own. The town of Grand Lake also has a beach that’s perfect for playing with little ones!

There are a number of rewarding hikes in the Grand Lake area, including the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Adams Falls is a favorite if you’re visiting with kids as it’s very easy but high reward, and connects to a number of other trails.

While in town, pick up Grand Pizza, which is yummy, family friendly, and perfect for picking up to go to eat by the water to enjoy the scenery while you eat. In terms of lodging, there are plenty of places to stay right in town. If you happen to be in an RV or campervan, though, there are a number of stunning campsites and National Forest areas that are perfect for boondocking . So many gorgeous, forested areas are perfect to stay totally for free!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado here

Pro tip: Make the most of your time driving around Colorado with the free RoadTrippers app . It helps you plan your route and shows you tons of unique stops along the way. Get $5 off RoadTrippers Plus with coupon BTR5QTP .

Go skiing in Colorado with kids

Thanks to Jessica of Skiing Kids

As a Colorado Native, I’m pretty particular about the best places to ski and snowboard in Colorado.  Growing up, I skied all over the state, and I absolutely love that there are so many options and diverse ski resorts for skiing in Colorado.  

When it came time to teach our own kids to ski, I instantly knew that we would be teaching our kids to ski at Arapahoe Basin (or A Basin as the locals say).  Not only is Arapahoe Basin one of the cheapest places to ski in Colorado it’s also one of the absolute best for beginners who are learning how to ski. One of the best things about Arapahoe Basin is that the beginner hill is directly out of the parking lot, and some of the most advanced terrain is right next door.  This makes it great for families where mom and dad want to ski something harder, but still check in on the kids each run.

If you’re looking for a Colorado ski resort with an “Old West” feel, you’ll want to head to Steamboat.  It’s not uncommon at all to see locals skiing in cowboy hats while you’re at Steamboat, which the kids will absolutely love.  The entire town has a very laid back feel, so it’s a fantastic place for a winter getaway in Colorado.  While you’re in Steamboat, make sure to check out some of the local hot springs for the perfect apres ski activity for families.  

If you’re looking for a ski vacation where you can be treated to a full five-star service, head to Vail.  While Vail is less expensive than Aspen, you’ll still pay a premium to ski and stay here.  However, Vail does have one of the most impressive kids ski school programs in the state, and even on non-ski days, the kids will love going ice skating, sledding, fat biking and even on the mountain coaster.

Ready to start planning? Read my in-depth comparison of the best Colorado ski resorts for families .

Try some kid-friendly hiking in Denver

Thanks to Jessica of Bring The Kids

If you’re planning a visit to the Denver area, you’ll be thrilled to find that there are plenty of great kid friendly hikes nearby. Denver thrives on its great outdoor activities and within 20 minutes, you can be out of the city and breathing fresh air on the trail.  

If you’ve got young kids who like to explore, or just want a short and easy hike, head to Lair O’ The Bear outside of Morrison.  Half of this hike goes along a creek, which kids will love, and there are some massive cottonwood trees that kids of all ages will love to climb on.  This hike is a short 2 mile loop with minor elevation gain.

If you want to combine your Denver area hike with some education, make sure to head up to the Lookout Mountain Nature Center.  In addition to a great trail system with several short hikes that kids will love, their educational programs are simply fantastic.  They have several educational programs geared at kids and adults of all ages, so check their website for their full program schedule.

If you’re ready to tackle a hike that’s a bit longer, consider heading up to Mount Falcon and hiking the Castle Trail Loop.  This trail has several historic buildings and signage along the way, and also will give you some of the best views overlooking Denver and the entire front range.

Hiking around Denver is a great way to give your kids a taste of the outdoors while still enjoying the best that the city has to offer. It’s easy to spend a day out on the trail and then come back to the city to enjoy the restaurant scene and stay overnight.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Denver, Colorado here

Be a paleontologist at Dinosaur Ridge

If you’re visiting Colorado with a kid who loves dinosaurs, you can’t miss Dinosaur Ridge . This fascinating park is just 20 minutes west of downtown Denver, across the street from Red Rocks Park, making it one of the easiest places to see dinosaur fossils in America.

Dinosaur Ridge offers visitors a chance to get up close with all sorts of dinosaur fossils, from footprints to bones, all under the guidance of a real paleontologist. Our guide was extraordinarily knowledgable and patiently answered our questions.

The bus tour uses a shuttle bus to take visitors along the park’s main route, Dinosaur Ridge Trail. Tours last around an hour and cost $10 per child and $15 per adult. The bus tour is ideal for those visiting with little kids, as it keeps their attention focused on exploring the unique geology and paleontology of the area. This tour is offered all day, nearly every day.

Dinosaur Ridge now offers guided walking tours on weekends as well, with various durations and distances to meet different visitor needs. You can choose from a short walk that covers half of the ridge ($6 per person) all the way up to a 2.5 hour walk with a geologist ($15 per person, ages 16+).

If you’re looking for a full day trip from Denver, consider visiting Dinosaur Ridge and other stops on the scenic “Lariat Loop” including Red Rocks, the Buffalo Bill Museum and more.

For those who would rather not stay in the hubbub of Denver, nearby Golden is a great alternative. It’s close to Dinosaur Ridge and lots of wonderful front range hiking while boasting plenty of small mountain town charm. Stop in for a brew, a pizza, a pretzel and a board game at Golden City Brewing. There’s even a lovely creek running right through town where you family can enjoy a stroll after dinner. If that sounds right up your alley, you’ll love staying at The Golden Hotel in the heart of town!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Dinosaur Ridge, Colorado here

See the beginning of the Colorado Plateau at Colorado National Monument

The Colorado Plateau is one of the most unique features of the western United states. The deeply-hued rocks and towering mesas define so much of what we think of for the region. But the great news is that you don’t have to go all the way to the Grand Canyon to find it!

Once you head to the west side of the Rockies, you’ll find Colorado National Monument just outside the small town of Grand Junction. It’s a great stop if you’re doing a cross-country or western states road trip.

You can easily spend most of a day at Colorado National Monument. It offers a few different hiking trails to consider, but the best one for families is the 0.5 mile Alcove Nature Trail just across the street from the visitors center. When you stop in to talk with a ranger, they’ll provide all the supplies you need – including a Junior Ranger booklet! There are several other easy trails that are less than 1 mile each way, making Colorado National Monument one of the best places in Colorado for hiking with toddlers and little kids.

The park is also the perfect spot for a scenic tour along Rim Rock Drive – you can appreciate the park’s beauty even if you have limited mobility. Most of the time it’s not especially crowded unlike most other parks in the region.

Overall Colorado National Monument is a real gem and a must-see if you’re taking a Colorado road trip with kids!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Colorado National Monument here

Get outside in Steamboat Springs

Thanks to Keri of  Bon Voyage With Kids

One of the best things to do in Colorado with kids is to visit the Western ski town of Steamboat Springs!  Called Ski Town USA, Steamboat Springs is known for being one of the most family-friendly destinations to visit with kids, with a large variety of activities for all ages. 

During the winter months, Steamboat Springs offers epic skiing, with a range of slopes from challenging to beginner and an excellent ski and ride school. My kids loved the variety of terrain and learned a lot during our week visit, and the opportunity for night skiing was a unique treat. One of their favorite sights was spotting Steamboat’s mascot, Powder the dog!

In addition to skiing, there are plenty of other fun family activities including ice skating, horseback riding (even in the snow!), dog sledding, and the mountain roller coaster.  In the warmer months, activities include mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing.

The Western town of Steamboat is also worth a visit, with a variety of wonderful family-friendly restaurants and shopping, including our kids’ favorite, F.M. Light & Sons. This historic family-owned clothing store is a step right into the Wild West and a great place to pick up quality Western wear including boots and hats. Don’t miss the opportunity to get a photo on the horse out front!

No visit to Steamboat Springs is complete without a visit to one of the hot springs. Whether you visit the Old Town Springs in the heart of town or our family’s favorite, Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs set out in nature, this unique experience is a must-do!  The natural mineral water reaching temperatures well over 100 degrees is a great way to relax after ski days or hiking on your mountain vacation.

There are many hotels and resorts for lodging in the area, but our favorite is the Torian Plum slope-side condos in Steamboat Springs.  There are also several hotels including the Sheraton and Marriott in the area, perfect for families. Steamboat Springs is definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado with kids.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Steamboat Springs, Colorado here

Learn about the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde National Park

Thanks to Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

One of the most culturally significant national parks in the United States, Mesa Verde gives visitors a fascinating glimpse back in time when the indigenous people who first settled this area built their homes on the side of cliffs. Located in the southwestern corner of Colorado, Mesa Verde is an easy addition to any southwest USA road trip. If you’re booking flights to visit Mesa Verde, note that it’s only 4 hours from Albuquerque versus almost 7 hours from Denver .

With more than 5,000 protected sites within the park, Mesa Verde is the largest archeological preserve in the country. In fact, it is one of the only national parks meant to protect man-made structures rather than natural ones. The Cliff Palace is the most notable and most impressive attraction in Mesa Verde. The massive, and incredibly well-preserved dwelling built into the side of a cliff is believed to have housed more than 100 Ancestral Pueblo Indians before it was abandoned in the 1300s, when the tribe migrated south to New Mexico and Arizona. Aside from the ruins found throughout the park, Mesa Verde is a wonderful place to go camping with kids , to hike, or explore the natural landscapes of southern Colorado.

With an arid, desert climate surrounded by vast, sprawling valleys, Mesa Verde offers some awe-inspiring panoramic views. Many of the lookout points are accessible from short trails off one of the park’s scenic drives. So, if visiting with young kids, no strenuous hiking is required to see some of Mesa Verde’s best viewpoints.

The Morefield campground located within Mesa Verde National Park is a wonderful place to spend a few nights under the stars. With plenty of space and clean facilities, it is definitely one of the more comfortable places to camp. But if you prefer hotels to campsites, there are plenty of family-friendly places to stay in the town of Cortez , just 15 minutes away.  

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Mesa Verde National Park here

Wonder at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Thanks to Dalya of Sweet Little Journey

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is arguably the most overlooked national park in Colorado. This is mostly due to the long 4 hour drive from Denver, combined with not much else to do in the area besides the park, so it’s not a major tourist destination. Luckily, that means less crowds and more undiscovered areas!

There are two entrances to the part; North Rim and South Rim. South Rim is where you’ll find the visitors center, serviced campgrounds, marked trails and paved roads. The North Rim is a little more wild and does not have a ranger or visitor station. A lot of the roads are unpaved and there are usually a lot less visitors on this side of the canyon. The majority of the hikes are along the rim of the canyon and easily accessible by car. The hikes are very kid friendly as they’re mostly flat and have gorgeous views along the way.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is also designated as a Dark Sky Park and the night skies here are incredible in the summer! If you’re staying in Crawford, you’ll be able to see the stars right from your accommodation.

For visiting the South Rim, stay in Montrose . This is the closest city to the entrance of the canyon from the south and has various accommodations. If you’re interested in exploring the North Rim, look for accommodations in Crawford . Crawford is 40 minutes drive to the entrance of the North rim and is the closest town from this side of the Canyon though hotel options are more limited.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Gunnison National Park here

Slide down Great Sand Dunes National Park

Thanks to Tanya of Rad Family Travels

An often missed national park in Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a big hit for families with kids of all ages. Go sand sledding down North America’s tallest dunes, hike to Zapata Falls and through pine forests, and make your bed under the stars in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. If you time it right, you can even float through Medano Creek.

Just a few hours south of Denver and even closer to Colorado Springs, this national park in Alamosa, Colorado packs a punch with outdoor adventures. The highest sand dune, Star Dune, is 750 feet tall. But this diverse park includes more than racing down ginormous sand dunes on a rented sand sled. Discover pine forest, grasslands, wetlands and 13,000+ foot mountains for climbing.

We recommend at least two days and two nights in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, or longer if you plan to take hikes in the forest and explore more of the park.

If your family loves camping then check out Zapata Falls Campground. This first-come, first-serve campground sits at 9,000 feet under Blanca Peak (14,345’). Enjoy stunning 360 views of the San Luis Valley, the San Juan Mountains and the Great Sand Dunes day and night. Four wheel drive is helpful, but not required here. Piñon Flats Campground in the park is also great campground for families with a trail directly to the dunes. Reservations are highly recommended here.

There are no hotels or lodges inside the park. But just 3.5 miles from the park entrance, Great Sand Dunes Lodge offers seasonal lodging options. The Oasis also offers primitive campsites, RV sites, and cabins.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve here

Relax at Vail’s Piney Lake

Thanks to Kirsten of Kids Are A Trip

If you are looking for the perfect bucket list activity in Colorado, head to Piney Lake. Located just outside Vail, it is the perfect destination for adventure loving families.

Vail in summer does not disappoint as there are endless outdoor activities, but Piney Lake is in a league of its own. The drive to Piney Lake takes you on winding roads, through pine forests with stunning views everywhere you look. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the summer, as we were lucky enough to spot a moose bathing itself just off the main drive.

Once you arrive at Piney Lake, it will be hard to know where to begin. The lake is surrounded by thousands of acres in the White River National Forest and has stunning views of the Gore Range. There are several hiking trails and families should plan on spending the day.

To access the lake, you have to visit Piney River Ranch, as they manage the activities in and around the lake. Families can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and even fishing gear. Those who love hiking won’t want to miss the Piney Falls trail that ends in a spectacular waterfall. It’s six miles round trip, but we promise it’s worth it.

For those who want more relaxing activities consider horseback riding or fly fishing. And when everyone has had their fill, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Lodge Restaurant and take in the spectacular views.

Should you decide you can’t leave this little slice of Colorado paradise, you’re in luck. Piney River Ranch offers cabins and glamping tents for rent. How nice would it be to fall asleep to the sounds of summer and wake up next to the lake? 

We think Piney River Ranch and Piney Lake are true hidden gems in Colorado and we think you will too. If you choose not to stay on-site at Piney River Ranch, we love Antlers at Vail and Manor Vail Lodge . They both offer amazing locations and top-notch amenities.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Vail’s Piney Lake here

Mapping your family trip to Colorado

Use the map below to help you plan our your Colorado family trip itinerary. Just remember that drives may take longer than they look on the map due to the mountainous terrain.

Prefer a visual version? Check out the summary in our Colorado with kids web story !

Where to go next

Do you want to extend your Colorado family vacation to other places within the region? Here are some great ideas to consider in the southwest USA :

• Rocky Mountain National Park with Kids: 2 Perfect Days
• Best Colorado ski resorts for families
• 13 Awesome Things To Do In Utah With Kids
• How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon With Kids
• 7 Unique Things To Do In Capitol Reef National Park
• Best things to do in New Mexico with kids
• Best things to do in Albuquerque with kids
• White Sands National Park visitors guide
• Best things to do in Arizona with kids
• 7 Fun Things To Do In Tucson With Kids
• Saguaro National Park visitors guide
• Things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale with kids
• Where To Stay In Scottsdale With Kids
• Fun things to do in Flagstaff With Kids
• Where to stay in Flagstaff with kids

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21 Places to Take Kids in Colorado (before they grow up)

They say time flies when you’re having fun, but the older I get the faster time flies, regardless of if I’m having fun or not. And, when it comes to my kids, I blinked yesterday and they were nine and seven-years-old. In nine years my oldest daughter will be 18 and getting ready to go off to college. That means I have nine years left with her at home, and 11 with my youngest. When this realization hit me it left me rethinking the next decade of vacations. I know that sounds a little extreme but there’s A LOT I want to do with my kids before they grow-up.

Memories and experiences last a lifetime so we have to get out there and make some (more)!

Given we live in Colorado – and there is SO MUCH to see and do here – I’ve complied a list of some of the top places to take kids in Colorado …before they grow-up . We have already checked several off the list and are working to get the others taken care of soon.

Are there other places to take kids in Colorado before they grow up that you think should be on the list? Let us know in the comments. (Portions of this article appeared in a piece I wrote for Colorado Parent .)

Wine Lovers Take Note! Colorado has an amazing wine region that’s kid friendly. Things to do with kids in Palisade.

Great Sand Dunes National Park: Sandboarding, sand sledding, sand castle and swimming!

The Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest dunes in North America; a 30 square mile dune field with five sand dunes over 700 ft. tall! It’s truly one of Mother Nature’s coolest phenomenons (at least in Colorado).

There aren’t very many places in the world where kids can hike up sand dunes then sandboard or sled down, and then cool off in creek at the base. You can enjoy non-motorized and non-mechanized activities in the creek, including splashing, surfing, wading, skim boarding, floating, sand castle building and sand sculpting.

If you stick around the park in the evening hours, you’ll be treated to stargazing like you’ve never seen! Better yet, rent a campsite at the park so the light show can be an entire evening activity.

Best Ages to Visit: 3 years-old and up Location: Alamosa URL: http://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

TIP: If you want to swim in the river you need to plan your visit between April and June. The river is typically dried up by mid-July.

Georgetown Loop Railroad: Scenic train ride filled with history and view.

A ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad not only offers a fun experience but it’s one with a history lesson attached. The three miles of adventure between Georgetown and Silver Plume includes spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, accompanied by the incredible feeling of stepping back into another time where the railroad ruled, mining was a way of life and outlaws littered the land.

If you reserve tickets during the holiday season Santa will be on-board passing out presents, treats, and goodies to kids. You’ll also travel through a beautiful light show set to synchronized holiday music.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 3-10 Location: Georgetown (45 miles from Denver) URL: https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/

Garden of the Gods: The only park where you’ll find Kissing Camels.

The Garden of the Gods is Colorado’s top geological site and a designated National Natural Landmark. You can walk, drive or bike through the park to view unique, natural red rock formations, gaining not only a sense for the beauty of the rocks themselves but the way the movement of the Earth put it all together.

The rock formations alone are the main draw for visiting Garden of the Gods. But learning how they were made either in the parks museum or on a guided tour and then seeing them opens the door to a geology lesson for both kids (and adults). Not to mention, the rock formations are fun shapes with names like Kissing Camels and Sentinel Spires.

There are 1,364 acres to explore by car, bike, on horseback or on foot. You should definitely get out of the car and walk through the park. Note, you will either need to arrive EARLY (before 8am) during peak summer season to get a parking spot and/or park in a lot about a half mile out from the formations and walk-in.

There are more than 15 miles of trails with the main trail – Perkins Central Garden Trail – being a 1.5-mile trail that runs through the heart of the park. It is paved and stroller/wheelchair accessible. Admission is always free.

Best Ages to Go: Ages 4 and above. Location: Colorado Springs URL: http://www.pikes-peak.com/about-garden-of-the-gods

North Pole – Santa’s Workshop: It’s Christmas year around.

Did you know the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop were actually in Colorado Springs? Ok, so it might not be where Santa and his elves live but the North Pole in Colorado Springs is a fun, year-around way for kids to get/stay in the holiday spirit. (It’s also not a bad way for parents to remind their kids in July that Santa is ALWAYS watching.) The North Pole is a family theme park offering family-friendly rides, a magic show, animals, plenty of places to eat and, of course, pictures with Santa!

Best Ages to Visit: Up to 12 years old. Location: Colorado Springs URL: http://northpolecolorado.com/

Pike’s Peak: Purple Mountain Tops do Exist

The views from Pike’s Peak inspired the writing of “ America the Beautiful “. Needless to say, the views are stunning. While most kids probably won’t appreciate the views they will love riding the Pikes Peak Cog Railway up the mountain.

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway climbs the 14,115 feet above the clouds to the top of Pikes Peak Mountain on a special track; it’s the highest cog railroad in the world. (You need to make reservations in advance.) You can also drive the 19-mile scenic journey on the Pike’s Peak Highway.

Best Ages to Visit: 3-12 years old (children under three-years-old ride for free but must be in your lap). Location: Colorado Springs URL: http://www.pikes-peak.com/

WINE TRAVEL GUIDE: Colorado

Where to sip, stay and things to do in Colorado Wine Country

Rocky Mountain National Park: Adventure Awaits on Top of the World!

Ponderosa pine forests. Aspen groves. Tundra. Lakes. Waterfalls. Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses more than 415 square miles of mountain majesty topped off with 350 miles of hiking trails. With most of the park being at least 8,000 feet high, it’s easy to soak in views from every angle. As for activities, they’re endless. Hiking . Biking. Ziplining. Fishing. Canoeing. Swimming. Horseback riding. Camping. Wildlife sightings. And so much more.

It’s a must to ascend the Continental Divide if you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. However, there is no need to get your hiking boots on –  unless you want to. You can easily drive up Trail Ridge Road, which cuts you across the park east to west. Along the way kids will see the variety of ecosystems within the park as they change before their eyes. (For little ones still napping, this could be a great time for them crash out!)

Best Ages to Go: Ages 6 and up. Location: Estes Park, CO URL: http://www.nps.gov/romo

TIP: Consider looking into activities at YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park for kids ages 5-8 th grade. It offers a variety of both family activities and day camps for kids. The camps are excellent as they let the kids enjoy the outdoors with other kids and gives parents a chance to do a more serious hike or not…

Mesa Verde National Park: Climb into the Lives of Colorado’s Ancient Tribes

Mesa Verde National Park was the first national park established to “preserve the works of man”. Today, the park preserves about 5,000 archeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived here over 700 years ago.

There are 600 cliff dwellings, mesa top sites and artifacts from almost eight centuries ago. It’s literally a walking, climbing, and talking history lesson for kids on Native American life and culture.  Kids can actually walk (and climb) through the cliff dwellings to really explore and grasp how people used to live. It will be hard not to walk away with pieces of American history after exploring in this type of interactive environment.

Best Age to Visit: Ages 4 years-old and up Location: Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado URL: https://www.nps.gov/meve/

TIP: Between the ages of 4-12 kids can take part in the Junior Ranger program. Younger children will enjoy the park but it’s not stroller friendly so a backpack carrier would be essential. Kids over the age of 12 will benefit from the history aspect, outdoor experiences and you’ll benefit from the limited wifi.

Hammonds Candy Factory: It’s the Sweetest Tour in Town

You’re not going to find any Oompa Loompas at the Hammond’s Candy Factory in Denver, instead you’ll see 150 busy candy makers handcrafting 5,000 pounds of candy a day. It is quite the production. The tour at Hammond’s Candy Factory is FREE.

The tour begins with a short video regarding the factory’s history, and how particular candies were invented and the family who built the iconic Denver business. Then you’re led down a short hall to an open area where there is plenty of room for everyone to watch the candy makers – behind a glass wall. Kids will see people bustling around in red aprons, stirring confections, slicing and twisting Hammond’s iconic candy canes.

Your kids – and possibly yourself – will walk away with an entirely new appreciation for the art of candy making. (Full review of Hammond’s Candy Factory tour.)

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 2-12 Location: Denver URL: http://www.hammondscandies.com

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: The Highest Elevation Roller Coaster in N. America

Tour the underground cavern with its stalactites and stalagmites and the decorated cave room, King’s Row. Two guided walking tours are offered daily and are appropriate for most ages.  The Giant Canyon Swing whirls riders out 1,300 feet over the canyon and Colorado River, offering up breathtaking views for the adrenaline junky.  Ride the highest elevation rollercoaster in the U.S. The Cliffhanger Coaster is perched on the edge of Glenwood Canyon, making it a real scream.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 4-15 Location: Glenwood Springs, CO URL: http://glenwoodcaverns.com/

TIP: Kids have to be at least 56 inches tall to take a ride alone. If they’re at least 38 inches tall (and threes years old) they can ride with an adult.

Glenwood Hot Springs: The “World’s Largest Natural Mineral Springs Pool”

Take in the thermal, mineral waters at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, which has been dubbed the “world’s largest natural mineral springs pool”. The entire family can swim, soak and play in the 1 million-gallon pool. In the summer months, there are water slides and a large grassy area for families to picnic in and lounge for the day.

Best Ages to Visit: Over the age of 2 years-old Location: Glenwood Springs URL: http://www.hotspringspool.com/

Dinosaur Ridge: Walk in the footsteps of Stegosaurus and Tyrannosaurus Rex – literally!

Young paleontologists can explore more than 300 dinosaur footprints and dozens of other fossils Dinosaur Ridge. In addition to the Trek Through Time indoor interactive exhibit hall families can do a self-guided hike up Dinosaur Ridge Trail, home to hundreds of dinosaur tracks and the Dinosaur Ridge Bone Quarry where the world’s first Stegosaurus was found. There is also a paid ($) guided tour which includes a ride along the trail with stops along the way to admire the fossils.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 4-12 Location: Morrison, CO URL: http://www.dinoridge.org/

Skiing: Hit the slopes!!!

Skiing and Colorado are synonymous so it should come as no surprise that if you live and/or visit Colorado hitting the slopes – at least once – is a must. Colorado is repeatedly ranked as one of the top ski destinations in N. America, not surprisingly given the state is home to some of the highest terrain, excellent snow and more than 20 resorts to choose from. Finding a ski hill in Colorado isn’t a problem, picking which one you want to visit might be though.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 4+ (most ski schools allow kids to begin lessons at age four.) Location: Just about anywhere in the state URL: http://coloradoski.com/resorts

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Something for everyone.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science houses 1.4 million artifacts and specimens, an Imax theater, a planetarium and multiple exhibits. The museum is also home to an interactive children’s Discovery Zone, perfect for little ones. Older children will love the 3D Imax films, planetarium and wildlife exhibits. There is a restaurant onsite so you can literally spend the day at the museum and never get bored or hungry. (Need more ideas of things to do in Denver , see what Tim Kroeger over at Universal Traveller suggests.)

Best Ages to Visit: Over the age of 2 years-old Location: Denver URL: http://www.dmns.org/

The Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour: Experience Gold Mining in Action  

Mine tours are one of the best real-life virtual time machines families can do to learn about an era that shaped the state of Colorado – the Gold Rush. They’re also a great way to escape a hot summer day and potentially strike it rich at the same time.

The Old Hundred Gold Mine , dates back to 1872 and offers an hour-long guided tour into the heart of Galena Mountain. You can ride a vintage, electric-powered mine train, watch demonstrations of mining equipment dating back to the 1930’s and pan for gold in the sluice box.

There are several additional top-rated mine tours in Colorado including the Hidee Gold Mine in Central City, the Country Boy Mine in Breckenridge, Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs and the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 5 years-old and up. Location: Silverton, CO URL: http://www.minetour.com

Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Forget Calgon, the Views will Take Your Breath Away

The reason Strawberry Park Hot Springs has made this list isn’t just the warm water water, camping or available hiking, it’s the remote location and breathtaking views as you soak in the water. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the top hot spring in Colorado to visit! It’s located in Steamboat Springs, about 15 minutes from town. You can either drive yourself, take a shuttle or stay onsite in one of the cabins or campsites (dogs are not allowed).

There are a few different pools to soak in at Strawberry Park Hot Springs, all vary in temperature. The largest of the pools is luke warm and perfect for little ones as there is a shallow beach they can swim and wade in. There are also several smaller, hotter pools to help rid your body of those aches and pains. Make sure you book their Watsu treatment, it’s a signature item.

Best Ages to Visit: Over the age of 5 years-old Location: Steamboat Springs URL: https://strawberryhotsprings.com/

Denver Mint: There is a lot More to that Penny in Your Pocket

Ever wonder how a coin in made? There’s a lot more to it than you might think. Denver is home to one of the six United States Mint facilities and is only one of two that offers tours.

The free, 45-minute guided tour explains the history of the United States Mint, how coins are produced, the craftsmanship required from the original designs and sculptures to the actual creation of the coins.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 7 years-old and up. Location: Denver URL: http://www.usmint.gov/mint_tours/

National Stock Show and Rodeo: A Ride for all Ages

Held every January at the National Western Complex, it’s the world’s largest stock show, involving more than 15,000 animals. Enjoy rodeos featuring top-notch bull riders, horse shows, petting zoo’s, dog shows, livestock competitions, auctions and so much more. There is truly something for all ages.

Best Ages to Visit: Ages 2+ Location: Denver URL: http://www.denver.org/milehighholidays/national-western-stock-show

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: A Classic Steam Train with Million Dollar Views

This historic train has been in continuous operation between Durango and Silverton since 1882, carrying passengers behind vintage steam offering view of Colorado’s mountains inaccessible by highway. The most popular ride includes a 3.5 hour train ride from Durango into the historic mining town of Silverton where you’ll have two-hours to explore the town (or do a mine tour). The ride back into Durango is an additional 3.5 hours.

Best Ages to Visit: All ages (Children under the age of three are free.) Location: Durango URL: http://www.durangotrain.com/

Washington Park: One of the “Great Public Spaces in America”

Besides strolling through the flower gardens at Wash Park, there are SOOO MANY things to do. With 10 tennis courts, a lawn bowling/croquet field, two playgrounds, 2.6 mile jogging/biking path, two lakes (fishing, boating) you can easily stay entertained for the day – or more. If you don’t have a bike, don’t fret. You can rent bikes and/or a single or double bike surrey. The surrey’s are great fun for families with little ones who are just along for the ride. And, during the summer kayaks, paddle boards are available to rent.

When play time if over, take a stroll through one of the many gardens the park is home to – Washington Park is known for the largest flower garden in Denver. It has also been designated as one of the “Great Public Spaces in America” by the American Planning Association?. (Full review and things to do at Washington Park .)

Best Ages to Visit: Any age Location: Denver URL: http://www.denver.org/listing/washington-park/6828/

Arts in the Open:  Mixing Art, Nature and Hiking into One

Every summer and spring Chautatauqua Park in Boulder is home to theater hikes. Run by Arts in the Open, the group combines the arts and the outdoors by producing refreshing, non-conventional theater performances. A two-mile (easy) hike with views of the flat irons are paired with a fun, family friendly theater performance.

The group of hikers, along with the actors are taken on a scenic hike while scenes from a production are performed along the way. It’s a fun an unique experience that both you and your kids will enjoy!

Best Ages to Visit: Over the age of 5 years-old Location: Chautatauqua Park, Boulder CO URL: http://www.artsintheopen.org

These must-see and do places will stay in your kids’ memories long into adulthood.  These cherished times with them won’t last, so before they’re all grown up… Are there other places to take kids in Colorado before they grow up that you think should be on the list? Let me know in the comments.  

More things to do in colorado.

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Elaine N. Schoch

Elaine Schoch (pronounced the German way – Shock) is the editor and founder of Carpe Travel as well as an award-winning travel writer, wine judge, certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 and certified American Wine Expert. She is married to The Husband and has two kids, Princess One and Two – who’s interest and knowledge in wine is quite extensive. Not to mention the stamps in their passports.

43 Comments

Cave of the winds and the royal gorge

Two more great recommendations – thanks!

Great list! I actually clicked on this simply because I was curious where the main picture is 😛 My first guess is Dillon, but after that I really have no idea! Thanks for making this.

You nailed it! I shot this last summer hiking around Lake Dillon.

Swetsville Zoo right off I 25 south Timnath exit All the creatures are sculpted out of heavy machinery oh and it’s free

Thanks for the tip! Always love free things to do…

Bishops Castle, beautiful and kids love it!

Thanks, yes it is a great spot!

Bent’s Fort and Koshare Kiva

Thanks for the tips!

Absolutely!!

Love it. I’d add Bent’s Fort.

Thanks for the recommendation. I actually haven’t been here, I’ll need to check it out this summer.

Tiny Town in Morrison and The Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden

Yes, both are great places to take kids!!! Thanks for the recommendation.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is also pretty unique to Colorado 🙂

Yes, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a great place to visit with kids! Thanks for the tip.

Colorado National Monument has fantastic views and hikes! Add the Dinosaur Museum and a huge up Dinosaur Hill and you have a great trip to the Western Slope and Fruita. Great wine tasting in Palisade for mom and dad, too.

Great tips! Thanks for sharing.

Raft the Arkansas river, climb a 14-er, mountain bike the numerous trails! Lots more than the city offers!

Remember Cave of the Winds and the Royal Gorge!

Bishops Castle, Mt Princeton Hot Springs Resort/St. Elmo Ghost Town (feed the chipmonks), Centennial Village in Greeley, The Leadville Train just to name a few. The list you compiled is amazing and I want to take my kiddos to do a lot of this as vacationing out of state is difficult. Thank you.

Thanks for the awesome places you added to the list. We’re mapping out our summer in Colorado so I’ll have to check some of these spots out.

Nice Blog! For more Family outdoor tour try Grand Adventures, CO

Great tip! Thanks,

Casa Bonita!

Good one, thanks!

Thank you so much for this! The information is very helpful, and the age ranges are the best!!

Glad you found it useful!

Such a great article! Thank you so much for writing this. I grew up in CO and didn’t know about some of these options. Can’t wait to start checking off our list when we come back every summer!

The information is very helpful, and the age ranges are the best. I actually haven’t been here, I’ll need to check it out this summer.Thank you so much for writing this.

Don’t forget the Cliff Dwellings the exit before Cave of the Winds. Santa’s Workshop is just a few miles further up the mountain just west of Colorado Springs.

That is a great one too!

My 4 kids (ages 10-19) loved visiting Manitou Springs. It is a small, old town near Pikes Peak. There are 11 naturally carbonated springs around the town. They had a blast finding each spring and tasting the different mineral waters. Some where hard to swallow but that didn’t stop them from trying the next. We collected a little from each fountain and made lemonade with it when we go home. The water, with its high mineral content, is supposed to be healthy for you. Something different for a free & unique day out.

Interesting. I would never have thought to make lemonade from the waters. Great idea!

This is amazing! I used some of this stuff for my school project and I have not even shared it yet AND I think people will love my presentation. OK not love but I hope it will be booming.

Hello, amazing idea and best place for kids thanks for this blog.

What an amazing big list of places to visit. My family and I are planning a trip to Colorado next year. and we will definitely add to the plan of our trip a few of the places that you described in this article. I really hope that you will continue to share useful tips for travelers.

Thanks! Which places do you think you’ll visit? I hope you guys have a great trip.

What do you think about Estes Park?

There is a lot to do in Estes Park, I totally suggest you visit if you haven’t been. I have several articles written up on hiking and things to do in the area over on the Colorado Wine TRavel Guide in the Beyond the Vines section. (If your kids are older and like haunted things, try to stay at the Stanley Hotel.)

We are planning a trip to Boulder with our twin 4 year olds in August. Any suggestions on places to see would be greatly appreciated.

For sure go into Chautauqua Park. Check to see if they’re doing any music in the evenings or do one of the hiking performances they do. They’re super fun! The Boulder Reservoir is also great to cool off.

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The 25 top things to do in colorado, according to a local.

Expect plenty of epic adventures and spectacular scenery in Colorado.

Top Things to Do in Colorado

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Adventurous travelers will find a home in Colorado. Snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons create a rugged yet stunning landscape well worth exploring. Meanwhile, cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs provide a taste of culture – and plenty of relaxing activities for those not up for hiking or skiing. Read on for the top things to do in the Centennial State.

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park's flat lake trails – such as Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake trail and the Lake Irene trail – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 4.1-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 744 feet of elevation gain. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.

Don't miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, and it's known as the highest continuous paved road in the country. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, according to visitors, but that doesn't mean it's not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.

Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that backpacking requires a wilderness permit. If you're planning to visit multiple national parks in a year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass .

Insider tip: The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.

The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants, historical sites and top-notch views. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you're visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The many unique tour offerings , including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around.

When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find breweries and bars. Some top-rated breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado's capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives .

In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week's most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.

Insider tip: In terms of food and drink, you can't go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you're a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase – or Retrograde, where you enter the space-themed bar through a freezer in the Frozen Matter ice cream shop.

Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

While you won't find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn't mean you can't try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won't work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you'll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also a top Colorado camping location .

Insider tip: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.

Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel

An inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining," The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America . The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie.

Despite these sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It touts renovated premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There's plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding , attending the fall Elk Fest and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.

Insider tip: Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517

Garden of the Gods

There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods , located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs , one of which is hiking. Some highly recommended hiking routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.

Jeep tours are another way to explore Garden of the Gods. Visitors can take a 90-minute narrated Jeep tour to Balanced Rock and hear about the history of the park; embark on a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie's Queens Canyon and enjoy a scenic overlook; or ride to waterfalls, tunnels and other picturesque areas on a two-hour excursion. Or, step back in time with a trolley tour, offered hourly.

Insider tip: After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.

Summit Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, a 14er located approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including "America the Beautiful." You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).

Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery before boarding the train down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.

The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail, which is about a 25-mile round trip. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at 14.5 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Plus, you can reward yourself with a Pikes Peak doughnut or other treat at the Summit Visitor Center, which sits at 14,115 feet in elevation.

Insider tip: Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you're hiking, make sure you're descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning.

Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 25 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction , as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You'll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.

Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don't forget to grab a drink at one of the city's many breweries in between meals. If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado .

If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you're not in the mood to climb or hike.

Insider tip: A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, touring the Celestial Seasonings tea factory is a blast and includes free tea sampling.

Mesa Verde National Park

It's not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until finally abandoning them in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes.

During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – the largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which boasts sweeping views of the park. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.4-mile loop) is also popular, as you can admire the petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.

Ski in Aspen

Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country's largest ski resorts , one of Colorado's top ski destinations and one of Aspen's most popular attractions . The resort offers more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and nearly 50 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons.

Even if you're not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You'll find skiers flocking to the town's lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.

Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue's acoustics, saying it's one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when your favorite artists are performing.

Even if you can't make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide trails (3 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents drive-in movie events and morning yoga sessions.

Insider tip: You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465

Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs

The small town of Glenwood Springs is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town's fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn't require reservations.

Another option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 17 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance. The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is another thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it's one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.

Go whitewater rafting

The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.

Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip to Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. The Pine Creek route, which originates near the Granite Gorge, is another strenuous option for advanced rafters. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip.

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A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won't see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride . The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The free gondola is also a great activity, as it'll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.

While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

There are many theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it's certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that's known as the "Switzerland of America" thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.

The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you're scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.

Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This top Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. On the sandy shores of the lake, you'll find plenty of kids playing, adults sunbathing, and maybe even a moose or two testing the waters.

Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level. The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing and ice hockey.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn't have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you're driving, you can see it all in a day – though there's a good chance it'll take a long drive to get there, as it's located about 260 miles from Denver.

When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.

Insider tip: Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don't offer much in the way of shade. Also, make sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.

The train from Durango to Silverton takes less than four hours; passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the train ride back. You'll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling.

Breckenridge

If you're looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don't plan on hitting the slopes.

Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails – such as the highly rated McCullough Gulch Trail, the Hoosier Pass Loop and the Sawmill Reservoir trail.

Insider tip: A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can't be beat. Give the lamb a try; it's spectacular!

Visit Colorado's wine country

Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries . However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state's "wine country" is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.

You'll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. According to recent visitors, some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado's wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction , most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.

Insider tip: A stay at Palisade's Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado . Make sure to take advantage of the property's daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca.

While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.

Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you're looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you'd rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park , located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don't worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,100 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you're still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.

There's an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds.

Address: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212

Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs

This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and four terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features several designated pools as well as two waterslides open seasonally. If you're not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities , including cross-country skiing , horseback riding, snowmobiling , ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

If you're planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs , recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern appliances and gorgeous views.

Go leaf peeping

The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots ). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there's an early freeze.

Insider tip: If you're heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular "Crack Fries."

Drive the highest road in North America

The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You'll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.

Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you're an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it's one of the more popular 14ers to climb.

Experience small-town life in Salida

Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. As you walk down F Street, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. The downtown area is the state's largest historic district. At the end of the street, you'll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:

• Take the family dog-sledding
• Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
• Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
• Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
• Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
• Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
• Explore more than 70 installations at Meow Wolf

It's no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:

• Rock climb in Eldorado State Park (and receive a stamp in your Colorado Parks Passport )
• Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
• Visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
• Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
• See the stunning Maroon Bells
• Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
• Hike around Dinosaur National Monument

And plenty of other activities await if you're not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:

• Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
• Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
• Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
• Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
• Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence Ghost Town near Aspen

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson has lived in Colorado for most of her life, including four years in Boulder while she attended the University of Colorado Boulder . She spends her free time hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing and paddleboarding around the state, and has experienced much on this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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12 Popular Destinations for Colorado Family Vacations

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Many people look for original and fun vacation ideas that include entertainment for the entire family. Children obviously can’t participate and aren’t interested in many of the activities that adults are interested in, so the perfect family vacation requires plenty of kid-oriented activities as well as an equal amount of fun for mom and dad. Check out these most popular Colorado family vacations.

If you and your family are looking for vacation ideas within the state of Colorado, there is an abundance of awesome choices available, depending on what kind of trip you and your family desire.

Rocky Mountain National Park

There is an abundance of enjoyable activities at this national park, which is a very popular family vacation destination. Choose from fishing, hiking, swimming, camping, backpacking, and much more. There are many lodging possibilities, depending on if you’re looking to camp out, stay in a hotel, cabin, etc.

Wind River Ranch

Located in Estes Park, this ranch is a very popular family vacation destination for a number of reasons. One of these reasons is because of their elaborate and exclusive kids and teens programs. Another reason for this dude ranch’s popularity if because of the fact that it is unique, as it is a Christian ranch, mixing spirituality with clean, natural fun. Enjoy family camps, horseback riding, swimming, and a great deal more at Wind River Ranch.

Cave of the Winds

Your family will have the opportunity to choose from three different cave tours that range in price from $9 – $22. You and your family will be in awe as you visit these three exciting caves while simultaneously learning about ecology, geology, and the history of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Located in Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds is located near plenty of comfortable lodging, restaurants, and other fun activities.

Lakeside Amusement Park

If you and your family enjoy amusement parks, this Denver amusement park is sure to be enjoyable for everyone. From games to shows to numerous rides, your family is almost guaranteed to have a fun-filled vacation at Lakeside Amusement Park. The amusement park has over 40 rides, plenty of restaurants and picnic areas to eat, and much more.

Dinosaur National Monument

Children and adults both enjoy learning about the history of dinosaurs and at the Dinosaur National Monument, you’ll have the opportunity to visit an enormous sandstone cliff that housed more than fossils and remains of other prehistoric animals than any other location in the entire world. There are also many lodging possibilities, restaurants, other entertainment, etc., in the immediate area of the monument.

The Home Ranch

One of the best Dude ranches in Colorado, The Home Ranch is ideal for families because not only do they have an abundance of activities for adults but children and teens can look forward to big fun with the special ranch programs for kids and teens. With exciting activities like horseback riding, pond fishing, rock climbing, and a great deal more, you and your family are almost guaranteed to have the vacation of a lifetime.

Colorado Springs

This Colorado city is the perfect family-friendly area to take a vacation. With loads of activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding, you and your family will certainly have a great time. You can also visit popular attractions like Pikes Peak, the U.S. Olympic Training Center, the U.S. Air Force Academy, Great Wolf Lodge , and more. Read more about Colorado Springs here.

Ritz Carlton, Aspen

With a program geared toward kids called Ritz-kids, your kids will beg you to stay and stay at this luxury family resort.

The Broodmoor

This lovely resort located in Colorado Springs also has a children’s program called the Bee Bunch for kids ages 5 – 12. There is a game room on the premises, laundry, babysitting, a house doctor, and so much more. Read more about our Broadmoor stay here.

Located in Durango , this family resort is another great choice. The resort offers free movies, continental breakfast, a full-day children’s program, and more.

Jellystone Park

Jellystone Park is located in Larkspur, Colorado just south of Denver. This fun resort has camping, RV spaces, and cabins to rent and is filled with family fun like their outdoor waterpark during the summer.

YMCA of the Rockies

Nestled in the Colorado Rockies, YMCA of the Rockies has 2 locations in Colorado and both are perfect for family fun. Outdoors, swimming, sledding, crafts, campfires, and so much more.

Looking for more Colorado Family Fun? Check out my list of 7 of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Colorado and 6 Roadtrips within 6 hours of Denver, Colorado .

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• Best Family Vacations

9 Best Summer Family Vacations in Colorado

Jan 31, 2020

See recent posts by Julie Bielenberg

Colorado’s summers are even more spectacular and predictable than its winters. From snowmelt-driven rivers to lush green forests shading hikers with leafed branches and pine arms scented in summer sweetness, the Rocky Mountains provide endless family entertainment, adventure, hospitality and most important, experiential travel that combines curiosity with outdoor fun and relaxation. These are the best summer family vacations in Colorado.

The largest town in southwest Colorado, Durango is unique to the state in landscape and culture, with a thriving university (Fort Lewis College) and an incredible array of summer activities. The area is extremely tourist- and family-friendly, with summer adventures including hiking the surrounding San Juan Mountains, and water sports such as tubing, paddling, kayaking and the most popular, whitewater rafting!  The Animas River Trail  runs through town and gives access to gold medal waters for fishing and a white water park for water enthusiasts.

Historic downtown is packed with restaurants, family-friendly breweries, retail stores, and boutique hotels. Close to downtown is the Durango Discovery Museum for any inclement-weather days.

During the summer months, book tickets early for the Durango & Silverton Railroad. This narrow-gauge railroad is one of the most iconic in America. Departing from the downtown Durango Depot, the ride takes families through mountain passes, canyons, valleys, and past rushing streams—it’s picturesque the entire route—to Silverton, a once-thriving, high mountain mining town with an operational Main Street with restaurants and shops. Visit Durango’s tourism website to combine train tickets with a visit to nearby Mesa Verde National Park (the only U.S. national park dedicated solely to ancient civilizations) and other area attractions.

Recommended Hotel:  Colorado Trails Ranch

2. Telluride

Telluride is one of the most remote mountain towns in Colorado. However, access to the acclaimed resort and historic town is easier than ever— Telluride Regional Airport  recently  launched its first-ever commercial jet service, and nearby Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport airport is another easy option with shuttle services available. It’s worth the extra efforts for its unspoiled nature, no stoplights or chain stores (aside from one Starbucks on the mountain), historic Main Street, and the nation’s only free gondola transportation.

There’s a new Telluride Bike Park on the mountain in addition to hiking trails accessed via chairlifts and other base mountain choices. Over two-dozen hikes depart from right outside the main town or the Mountain Village. Bridal Veil Falls is the most popular spot to view, via foot, bike, car, or four-wheel vehicle. Telluride Outside, located at 121 W. Colorado Avenue, can arrange family fly-fishing, river rafting or paddling, 4WD tours and more.

Recommended Hotel: Madeline Hotel and Residences

3. Vail Valley

This iconic ski area now has more summer activities than winter! The resort towns of Vail , Avon, Edwards, and Beaver Creek offer more than 100 activities—mountain biking, hiking, tubing, archery, ropes courses, climbing, paddling, fishing, shopping, picnics, discovery centers, daily kids’ camps and more.

During the summer, much of the family activity is at Vail Resort. Adventure Ridge, located on the mountain, includes a four-line, 1,200-foot long zipline, two aerial ropes courses, and a kids’ zip line, kids’ ropes course, climbing wall, rebound trampoline and more. Also at the ski mountain is Gore Creek Mini Golf, and at the Lionshead base area, there’s a free bean bag toss, horseshoes and a paid slackline park where kids of all ages can test their balance at a variety of levels.

Recommended Hotel: The Grand Hyatt Vail

Boulder stuns come summer! It’s loaded with activities, a vibrant restaurant and cultural scene, and plenty of family-friendly lodging options. The National Historic Landmark has rental cottages with 48 miles of hiking trails and thousands of acres of natural lands. The Boulder Farmers Market is also voted as one of the top in the nation and is easily accessible from the famous Street Mall, loaded with restaurants, shops, street entertainers and great people watching.

Herschel Goldberg, founder of Boulder Bike Tours, has an epic summer package where families can rent bikes and helmets (including electric bikes for adults). Bike from downtown Pearl Street to a farm for the Thursday night “Sunset Tour” with wood-fired pizza featuring veggies that are harvested that day. There’s music playing, children dancing, libations, coffee, and more. It’s the epitome of Boulder!

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Boulderado

5. Snowmass

Snowmass has fast become one of the most exuberant, authentic summer family vacation options in Colorado. From trout hook fishing to a Treeline Trial Challenge Course, the on-mountain Lost Forest should not be missed! The adventure park is located near the Elk Camp Restaurant and offers the Canopy Run Zip Line, the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, Rugged Ascent Climbing Wall, Aerial Approach Disc Golf, and Timber Territory Paintball. It’s truly fun for the whole family whether you prefer to take it slow and participate in disc golf, or are more of an adventurous crew willing to attempt the Treeline Trial Challenge Course.

Families can ride the Elk Camp Gondola up Snowmass Mountain where the Elk Camp Restaurant has activities including downhill biking, dinner, campfires, live music, movies, a Stryder Park and a kids’ playground on Tuesday evenings. An increasingly popular Colorado sport, standup paddleboarding can easily be done with local guides on the Roaring Fork River. Guests get creative at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, a stellar place for kids of all ages to take workshops in sculpture, photography, painting, beading and mask-making. And, the weekly Wednesday night Snowmass Rodeo is a mix of locals and visitors, all enthralled with the Western action.

Recommended Hotel: Limelight Hotel Snowmass

6. Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is one of the most famous hot springs resort towns in the world, with the largest outdoor mineral hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. The mile-long pool is great for parents (who can soothe their achy muscles) and kids (who can swim to their heart’s content). During the summer months, there are cabana rentals and a new Splash Zone. Lap lanes are also available for swimmers year-round.

There’s even more adventure to be had at the Historic Fairy Caves Tour at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, packed with family attractions including the Cliff Hanger Roller Coaster, alpine coaster, a zip ine, giant swing over the canyon, rides geared for younger adventures, games and more. For a unique evening activity, try the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue dinner variety show.

Recommended Hotel: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

7. Steamboat Springs

Once summertime arrives in the Yampa River Valley, Steamboat Springs showcases some of the most spectacular summer offerings across the state. The authentic Western town has a legendary weekly rodeo that’s a huge draw for the town, and the Main Street offers plenty of shops, pubs and restaurants to entertain for hours. In town is also the Old Town Hot Springs, with numerous pools and areas to play. For the more adventurous, there’s a small scenic hike to Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs with numerous geothermal pools of varying temperatures.

On-mountain adventures include hiking and biking (with use of the chairlifts), Maverick Mini Golf, summer tubing lanes, mini-boats, a challenging ropes course, bungee trampoline, bounce house, climbing wall, Outlaw Mountain Coaster and more.

Summer season is also filled with events and celebrations; be sure to check the town’s website for dates. The 4th of July is one of the biggest celebrations of the year with an impressive parade through the Western town. There are also numerous marathons, runs, the hot air balloon rodeo, car shows and much more that are unique to the town.

Recommend Hotel : The Porches

8. Winter Park/Granby/Grand Lake

Located about 90 miles from Denver, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is the year-round resort town of Winter Park . On-mountain activities include Colorado’s longest alpine slide, climbing wall, free Friday movie nights and the Trestle Bike Park, which has over 40 miles of lift-serviced mountain bike trails perfect for riders of all ages and abilities. For something a little more laidback or for smaller ones, take a one-hour educational walking tour of the kennels at Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park or a 45-minute cart ride through the forest!

Grand County has five mountain lakes that are popular for fishing and boating, including 7,000-acre Grand Lake, Colorado’s largest body of water! Known as the “Western Gateway” to Rocky Mountain National Park , Grand Lake’s historic boardwalk has more than 60 shops, restaurants, and galleries including the new Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater. The national park has more than 350 miles of hiking trails and the western slope trails in Grand County are much less frequented than those on the eastern slope.

Recommended Hotels: YMCA of the Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch

9. Colorado Springs

The second largest city in Colorado, Colorado Springs is also a haven for recreational activity with close proximity to mountains and water. Pikes Peak is iconic; America the Beautiful was written from an experience atop, and towers over the city. Pike’s Peak Cog Railroad is extremely popular with families and we always advise to purchase tickets in advance. This is the world’s highest cog train, taking passengers to the  summit of 14,110 feet for truly incredible and 360-degree views.

Families can hike, bike, walk, drive, horseback ride, and more through the Garden of the Gods Park. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo recently underwent major renovations including a new ‘Encounter Africa’ exhibit, and guests can also feed the giraffes here.

Cave of the Winds has a dozen options for visitors including cave tours, a climbing wall, adventure slide, panning for gemstones, nature center, adventure course and more. Colorado Springs is also home to the U.S. Olympic Training Center, where numerous tours are offered.

The Broadmoor is a storied resort where you can visit for the day or spend the night in nearly 60 different spots throughout the property. It’s free to meander around the lake inside the resort, and all are welcome to dine at any of the restaurants, burn some energy off on the playground, rent a paddleboat and more. Overnight guests have access to multiple outdoor pools and hot tubs.

Recommend Hotel: SCP Colorado Springs Hotel

Julie Bielenberg is a Denver-based journalist and Colorado’s leading agritourism writer. She contributes her expertise to various outlets including AAA, USA Today 10 Best, 5280, Westword, Mountain Town Magazine, Hunting Life, and Mile High Mamas. Julie also works with the National Dude Ranchers Association. When she’s not traveling or on horseback, Julie is at home with her husband and three young children, who are passionate about everything Colorado has to offer, from skiing to hot springs! Follow Julie’s adventures,  @slowandgotraveler . 

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Mom’s/women’s camping outfit, shop the look.

Organic Donegal Sweater

Rambler 20 oz Tumbler

Long-Sleeve Waffle Tee

Aberdeen Jogger

GEL-Contend® Walker

Dad’s/men’s camping outfit.

Super Deluxe Book Pack

Streamlight 88052 ProTac HL USB 850 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight

Flannel Shirt

Trailhead Pants

Outline Hiking Sneaker

Girl’s camping outfit.

Mini Sleepy-Eyes Backpack

Big Long Sleeve Solid Cardigan

Glitter Best Dad Graphic Tee

Warrior Knee Joggers

Wicked Good Slippers

Boy’s camping outfit.

Galaxy Superbreak Backpack

Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle

Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt

Everyday Chino Shorts

Jr Alonisso 41 Sneakers

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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The Best Places to Visit in Colorado — National Parks, Small Towns, and Hot Springs Included

From stunning national parks to quirky small towns, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

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Colorado is perhaps best known for the Rocky Mountains that stretch across the state and offer up hiking and biking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. But what most people don’t know about Colorado is that the state also has beautiful red rock formations set in the dry desert, ancient cliff dwellings, and alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drums.

The one thing that binds everyone who lives in or visits Colorado is a love of nature and the outdoors — be it river rafting, climbing 14,000-foot peaks, or wildflower viewing. And as someone who grew up in the state (and lives here now), I’ve spent several decades exploring the vista-rich Centennial State. These parks, monuments, towns, and sites showcase the variety of experiences the state offers. Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Related: 10 Best Small Towns in Colorado

Rattlesnake Canyon Arches

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Utah’s Arches National Park has the world’s highest concentration of natural arches, but right across the border in Colorado is the world’s second-highest concentration. And in Colorado, you don’t have to pay a national park entry fee (or battle the crowds) to see them. Rattlesnake Canyon Arches boasts 35 natural arches tucked in a canyon on a 123,400-acre preserve. 

Related: 10 Best Colorado National Parks and Sites

Larimer Square

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Colorado may be known for its natural beauty, but the draw of downtown Denver is impossible to overlook. Larimer Square was the city's first designated local historic district for good reason — the city block is perfectly picturesque with shops and eateries that round out the Colorado experience. The square is a short 10-minute walk from the heart of the city: Union Station.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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It doesn’t get more Colorado than watching a golden eagle soar above a steep gorge. The sighting is part of the experience at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in western Colorado. The national park is marked by a deep, river-carved gorge with sheer walls. For the coolest view, check out the Painted Wall cliff that looks as if it was painted with giant stripes.

Colorado National Monument

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When you think of the American West, chances are you imagine something like the Colorado National Monument , which sits high on the Colorado Plateau and includes natural wonders like sheer canyon walls, towering monoliths, herds of bighorn sheep, and soaring eagles. In this grand landscape, there is plenty to keep you busy — including the beautiful Rim Rock Drive, year-round camping, and hiking and biking.

Douglas Rissing/Getty Images

Aspen is by no means a hidden gem, but it’s popular for a reason. The beautiful mountain town has four ski areas (that you can access with one lift ticket) and a surprising amount of culture for a town of around 7,000 people. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Aspen without a stop by the Maroon Bells , the most photographed mountains in North America.

Mesa Verde National Park

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This national park in southwestern Colorado is considered to be one of the state’s most sacred places. It was once inhabited by the Ancestral Pueblo people who built their homes in the sandstone cliffs. That heritage (and architectural wonder) is protected within this park, which is also a World Heritage Site and an International Dark Sky Park.

Amache National Historic Site

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One of the most significant moments in Colorado’s history is not known by many. The Amache National Historic Site , also called the Granada Relocation Center or Camp Amache, is where thousands of Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. Today, the eastern Colorado site shares the stories of the more than 10,000 people who passed through the camp — the majority of whom were U.S. citizens.

Pagosa Springs

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There are plenty of natural hot springs throughout the state (just check out the state’s hot spring loop ), but one of the best is found in Pagosa Springs, a small town that sits over the world’s deepest hot spring. I’d argue the best spot to soak is The Springs Resort & Spa , which has terraced tubs set along the river, but if you want to save a buck, you can also soak in the totally free “ hippy dip ” across the river.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado’s most visited national park. It is just over an hour’s drive from downtown Denver and is unique in that it spans the Continental Divide. In the fall, the Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road are particularly colorful drives, while mountaineers come to summit Longs Peak, the park’s tallest mountain.

Remember when I said that Colorado was home to “alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drum”? I was talking about Crestone, a tiny town of just under 150 people that is committed to sustainable living and spirituality. Throughout the town, you’ll find a variety of off-the-grid homes and spiritual centers and sites like the Crestone Mountain Zen Center and the Tashi Gomang Stupa .

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

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Just west of Denver, you’ll spot giant red rocks that seem to shoot out from the earth. This rock structure was long ago harnessed to create a natural amphitheater that has become world renowned for its unique sound quality. In fact, playing at Red Rocks has become a goal performance for many big-name artists.

Glenwood Springs

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When it comes to mountain towns with all-around appeal, it’s hard to top Glenwood Springs. The “larger” mountain town (just over 10,000 people), is set on the interstate making it easy to access from Denver (2.5 hours away). The town has three developed hot springs, a mountaintop adventure park that can only be accessed by gondola, and a river that provides opportunities for paddlers and fishers.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

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The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of those places that you might not expect to find in Colorado. The park protects a natural phenomenon: giant mounds of sand that were collected at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and the mysterious “surge flow” of Medano Creek . 

Crested Butte

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Like every other Colorado mountain town , Crested Butte has wonderful hiking and biking trails and great skiing, but what sets it apart is the abundance of wildflowers that earned it the nickname “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” There’s even an annual 10-day festival celebrating the blooms.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

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In the dry, red rock canyons of southwestern Colorado is this archaeological wonder. The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument encompasses a whopping 174,000 acres that contain clues to the daily lives of ancient Indigenous people, including more than 8,300 recorded villages, cliff dwellings, shrines, kivas, petroglyphs, and other historic sites. 

Steamboat Springs

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Steamboat Springs is yet another Colorado hot spring and ski town, but unlike the others on this list, Steamboat has a unique American West feel. Here, cowboy hats are just as common as Chacos, and the landscape lends itself to people who like to get outside. There are two ski areas, geothermal hot springs, and a state park directly to the north. 

Denver Union Station

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Many cities have a train station, but Denver has turned their transportation hub into the heart of the city. The 1914 Beaux-Arts train station , which is also a historic landmark, consists of 10 chef-owned restaurants and bars, a boutique hotel, and a handful of unique shops (and there are four bee hives on the roof). Once you’ve shopped and eaten your fair share, you can hop on the bus, light rail, or Amtrak to your next destination. 

Jacob Boomsma/Getty Images

The city of Durango is perched where the mountains meet the desert, providing a landscape that has a little of everything. There are hot springs, ski areas, mountain biking trails, and plenty of fun to be had on the Animas River that runs through town. In the summer, a top to-do is riding the 19th-century Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango to Silverton, Colorado over a mountain pass.  

Dinosaur National Monument

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Like dinos? Colorado has you covered. At this national monument , which straddles the Colorado-Utah border and passes into both states, there’s endless proof that dinosaurs once roamed the Colorado landscape. The monument includes dinosaur remains that are embedded in the rocks, petroglyphs from early humans, and plenty of outdoorsy things to do including river rafting, hiking, and camping.

Ed Freeman/Getty Images

Boulder is a college town with easy access to Denver and the mountains. To the west of the city sit the Flatirons, rock formations lined with trails, while the downtown neighborhood of Pearl Street Mall has everything from art galleries to inventive eats and unique boutiques.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Revealed: The Best Spots for Colorado Summer Family Vacations

posted by James Brockbank on January 22, 2022 // last updated on January 22, 2022

Are you looking for ideas about where to take your family for the summer vacation in Colorado?

Colorado is perhaps the perfect state for family vacations. Here, you reconnect with nature while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, fishing, and swimming.

Celebrate those who matter most by taking them on an incredible getaway. Start planning today by exploring the following best spots for Colorado summer family vacations. 

1. Breckenridge

2. colorado springs, 3. beaver creek, 4. aspen/snowmass village, 5. palisade, 6. estes park, 7. telluride, 10. steamboat springs.

Breckenridge is the ideal destination for those who love fishing and mountain biking. Even though these are the most popular outdoor adventures, there are a lot more activities you can explore. From hiking, golfing, boating, and horseback riding, your family will never run out of ideas to try during your Colorado summer vacation.

Breckenridge Stables have over one hundred horses to choose from when you want to go horseback riding. Of course, safety is a priority during these horse rides.

For all your boating needs, Lake Dillon has you covered. While at it, you can stop to eat and enjoy some great music at the Tiki Bar or Island Bar and Grill. Also, you can head straight to the 27-hole course if you’re a golf-loving family.

Your Breckenridge family summer vacation can never be complete without exploring the Discovery Fun Park . This place takes you right on top of the mountain, and all your family members can go. With all the fun activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and mini-golfing piled up for you, your day will surely end on a higher note.

On the days you want a little quiet and alone time, you can always drop the kids at the Mountain Top Children’s Museum. Here, they can indulge in several hands-on activities such as building and crafts. Take advantage of the kid’s night out on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays as you perhaps go out clubbing and dancing in town to wind off.

Going on a vacation with kids is never an easy thing. Ideally, you want to go to places where both you and the kids will have fun, a place that can comfortably accommodate your different needs.

Why not try Colorado Springs? It’s one place that offers lots of activities, from biking, golfing, hiking to driving adventures.

Your kids will love visiting the attraction sites in this spot. Take them to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , the Garden of the Gods , Pikes Peak, Seven Falls, to mention a few.

Entry to some of these excellent sites is free. You can have fun riding your bikes, watching the circus, ziplining, feeding giraffes, and watching other animals at the zoo.

While staying in Colorado Springs, you can also take your family to Canon City, a one-hour drive from Colorado Springs. The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a must-visit amusement park in Canon City. Here, you’ll ride the gondola, go to the theater, and walk the bridge.

In the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain lies another must-visit family spot, Beaver Creek.

Visiting Beaver Creek in one of your Colorado summer family vacations could be one of your best decisions. It’s the perfect place for reconnecting with nature and bonding with your family members.

The best activity to indulge in during the summer is hiking in the town’s mountains. The Rocky Mountains have several challenging trails, especially for experienced hikers. That said, novices have some access routes they can follow to keep the fun up.

While ascending mountain paths, your family can enjoy spectacular views, mostly dotted with Aspen trees.

Don’t leave without unwinding in the Beaver Creek Village. This cultural village offers plenty, from art performances to exquisite desserts.

Aspen, Colorado, has some of the most attractive sites you can visit with your whole family. Although Aspen is a ski town, it also offers many activities to explore and enjoy as a family in summer.

Do you enjoy biking as a family? Why not go on a biking adventure along the Rio Grande Trail that follows the Roaring Fork River. This trail suits people of all ages, regardless of their biking experience. Even if your family is full of novice bikers, you can still create epic memories.

Aspen has several hiking trails for your family’s hiking adventures. Whether you’re just learning to hike, an intermediate hiker, or an expert, you’ll find trails that befit your level.

From the Snowmass village, you can follow the Ditch Trail all the way to Snowmass Mountain for the novice hike family. The Smuggler Trail is perfect for intermediate hikers, while expert hikers can explore the Ute Trail.

Besides biking and hiking, you can take your family for a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola, looking at those breathtaking views of Aspen town. The free Thursday night concerts at the Snowmass Village should also be on your list.

This town will surely make your Colorado family vacation memorable. Don’t end your vacation without trying the different cuisines from the various restaurants available.

Palisade is a small town in Colorado, widely known for its vineyards, wineries, and farms, thanks to its mild weather. These are the primary attractions in this town, bringing people from all corners of the world, especially the wineries.

That said, this tiny town also offers a ton of other family fun activities. You can go hiking, climbing, biking, and even fishing here. At the end of the day, when you’re tired and want to relax, you end your day with a glass of freshly brewed wine.

For your family biking adventures, Palisade town offers a variety of mountain biking trails for riders with different skills. The Palisade Bike Skills Park, for instance, is an ideal location for beginner riders to have some fun. But if you’re used to those adrenaline-pumping descents from mountain biking, take your adventure to the Palisade Rim Trail.

Those who love hiking can visit the Grand Mesa National Forest for all the hiking fun. Mount Garfield is also an excellent spot in Palisade for hiking during the summer season.

Pay to go on a trip to the many wineries available there, orchards to pick your peaches, and to lavender farms for fresh lavenders.

Overall, Palisade is a great summer destination for a family that loves agriculture and being on the farms.

Are you still looking for more spots for Colorado summer family vacations? Estes Park is the ideal kid-friendly location for your summer vacation. This destination will help you reconnect with nature, go back to your good old days, and make your kids happy and excited throughout your stay.

Start with the Rocky Mountain National Park , one of the best national parks in the United States. There are several outdoor recreation activities that your kids can enjoy. Even more interesting, you can also join the fun in hiking and biking.

You can play cowboy with the kids on a hot afternoon and go horseback riding through the Rockies. Other activities include fishing from the Trout Haven Fishing Pond and Lake Estes and ziplining.

It’s not hard getting a place to stay in this town, especially with the kids. Anyone you ask will recommend the YMCA of the Rockies, especially for the kid activities they offer.

Telluride is always crowded during the summer, probably for its unique attractions. First off, there’s the Telluride Hotel, a kid-friendly hotel where you can set your base and enjoy exciting services.

The most incredible thing is that the town is a tourist attraction site based on its history . You can get the whole story about how the city has transformed from a Ute tribe summer camp to a ski mecca from the town museum.

While in the town, going on an off-road adventure is truly worth trying. You can’t reach certain places on foot, but with a 4by4 off-road adventure, your family gets the chance to explore such areas.

Ever tried rock climbing? During summer, Telluride will offer you an opportunity to try this activity at the Adventure Rock in Mountain Village, whether you have the experience or not. The place is 100% safe.

Other activities include paragliding over the town’s valleys, hiking, and mountain biking. Ensure your family tries the different delicacies from the restaurants available.

For your family and kid-friendly adventure, Durango offers much more that it becomes difficult to choose. The summer family adventures include hiking, ziplining, and fishing. The best hiking experience from this town is at the San Juan Mountains, while your fishing adventures can never be complete without visiting the Vallecito Reservoir.

And since it’s hot, you want to indulge in something that brings your temperature down. For this reason, you get several water sports to participate in, including:

• Whitewater rafting

You can also take your family to the Durango Discovery Museum for some historical discoveries. As they always say, learning never stops. Hiking along the Colorado Trails, evening walks, and mountain biking at Horse Gulch can also strengthen the family bond if taken together.

Ouray is an old mining town that the rugged San Juan Mountains surround.

Many historic buildings and breathtaking views from the mountain tops await you. Hit the Ouray’s Million Dollar Highway and let your family marvel at the scenic views.

How about you all stroll down the main street exploring all the shops? Then, buy some artwork or other valuables to take back home with you. You can also visit the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool for your water sport’s needs.

The beach at the Ridgway State Park is what you need to complete your summer vacation. Kids love playing all kinds of sports at the beach, and while they enjoy themselves, you can go paddleboarding. And to those who love hiking and biking, all these you can do here.

Steamboat Springs is home to many fantastic sites to explore.

You can go tubing the Yampa River with the family or visit Howelsen Hill for several sporting activities. What’s more, Steamboat Springs is home to several ranches where you can go horseback riding. The three most popular ranches here are Del’s Triangle Three Ranch, Elk River Guest Ranch, and Saddleback Ranch.

There are shops, boutiques, and various restaurants to visit downtown as you stroll down with your family.

Your kids should enjoy a trip to the iconic Old Town Hot Springs . Here they can swim, water slide, and have fun moments.

Another destination you shouldn’t miss is the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Located at the outskirts of Steamboat, this park offers therapeutic sessions. The hot pools, private pools, and massage huts will surely rejuvenate your body.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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More than 55 family-friendly attractions will keep you and your crew entertained and extending your time here

Craft lasting memories with an unforgettable and awe-inspiring family vacation to Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region.

Your entire family will love Colorado Springs and our more than 55 family-friendly attractions , including museums , trains , zoos, waterparks and breathtaking natural landscapes sure to impress outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Posted: April 25, 2023

You may not be able to go to 55 attractions in 5 days, but we did.

Posted: April 13, 2023

Check out these top fun attractions for kids in Colorado Springs.

Posted: March 7, 2022

These Instagram-worthy adventures will entertain even the pickiest of "unimpressed" teens.

Nothing beats a free deal.

Save some money with these FREE things to do in Colorado Springs.

Book your stay or grab a day pass for family-friendly fun at this indoor waterpark!

Feed giraffes, frolic with penguins, hang with hippos and roar with the lions.

A western Chuckwagon dinner is followed by a western stage show performed by the world-renowned Flying…

Colorado Springs is a destination for the curious. Explore new terrains and take in the natural…

We have fun itineraries and trip ideas for your next weekend getaway or vacation in Colorado…

• Mountain Communities
• Northeast Colorado Springs
• Northwest Colorado Springs
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Meeting Spaces & Venues

Adventure Miniature Golf 6550 Corporate Dr Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919

Adventures Out West 925 S 8th St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

The Airplane Restaurant 1665 N Newport Rd Colorado Springs, Colorado 80916

Arcade Amusements 900 Block Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Beaver Creek Outfitters Riding Stables 4531 Best Rd Larkspur, Colorado 80118

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway 515 Ruxton Ave Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

The Broadmoor Seven Falls 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd. Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

The Broadmoor World Arena 3185 Venetucci Blvd Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906-4020

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park 100 Cave of the Winds Rd Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo 4250 Cheyenne Mtn Zoo Rd Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906

City of Cripple Creek 337 E Bennett Ave Cripple Creek, Colorado 80813

CityROCK Colorado Springs 21 N Nevada Ave Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Colorado Jeep Tours 2315 E Main St Canon City, Colorado 81212

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College 30 W Dale St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum 215 S Tejon St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center 4729 Twin Rocks Rd Divide, Colorado 80814

Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad 520 E Carr St Cripple Creek, Colorado 80813

Cripple Creek Heritage Center 9283 S Hwy 67 Cripple Creek, Colorado 80813

Dave & Buster's 9277 Highland Ridge Heights Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920

Desert Reef Hot Spring 1194 County Rd 110 Florence, Colorado 81226

Dinosaur Resource Center 201 S Fairview St Woodland Park, Colorado 80863

Dr. Lester L. Williams Fire Museum 375 Printers Pkwy Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910

E-Bike Tours & Rental Manitou Springs 906 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Ed Robson Arena 849 N Tejon St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Flying W Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner & Western Show 3330 Chuckwagon Rd Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919

Focus on the Family 8605 Explorer Dr Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920

Garden of the Gods Trading Post 324 Beckers Ln Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center 1805 N 30th St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904

Gateway Prayer Garden 8035 Bandley Dr Fountain, Colorado 80817

Gather Mountain Blooms at Venetucci Farm 5210 S Hwy 85/87 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80911

Ghost Town Museum 400 S 21st St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904

Glen Eyrie Castle 3820 N 30th St Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904

Ivywild School 1604 S Cascade Ave Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

Lemon Lodge Ski Bar 111 E Pikes Peak Ave Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Level Up Virtual Reality 1025 Garden of the Gods Rd, Suite D Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907

Main Event 1180 Interquest Pkwy Colorado Springs, Colorado 80921

Manitou Cliff Dwellings 10 Cliff Dwellings Rd, US Hwy 24 West Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Michael Garman Museum & Gallery 2418 W Colorado Ave Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904

Miramont Castle Museum - Manitou Springs Historical Society 9 Capitol Hill Ave Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tours 9388 Hwy 67 Cripple Creek, Colorado 80813

Money Museum 818 N Cascade Ave Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

Mountain Jeep Tours Call for more information Colorado Springs, Colorado

National Museum of WWII Aviation 775 Aviation Way Colorado Springs, Colorado 80916

North Pole - Santa's Workshop 5050 Pikes Peak Hwy Cascade, Colorado 80809

Our Red Barn Ranch 11494 N Calhan Hwy Calhan, Colorado 80808

Outlaws and Lawmen Jail Museum 136 W. Bennett Avenue Cripple Creek, Colorado 80813

Penrose Heritage Museum 11 Lake Circle Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906

Peterson Air & Space Museum 150 E Ent Ave Peterson AFB, Colorado 80914

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15 Super Cool Places to Camp in Colorado

From supported campgrounds to dispersed areas with stellar stargazing, we found the best places to sleep outside in the Rocky Mountains

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

I’ve been hiking and camping in Colorado for more than 25 years, but last summer, I went on one of the most delicious backcountry overnights I’ve ever done, literally.

The gist? I met up with a group of outdoor experts, including Stephen Starks , aka “The Mountain Chef”, at the Fourth of July Trailhead, near Boulder, Colorado . There, we strapped on packs to haul 4.4 miles up and over the Continental Divide’s Arapaho Pass to Caribou Lake—an alpine oasis at 11,147 feet. Our goal? To test a bunch of gear and cook good food in the field.

I was stoked to tag along for two reasons: first, to hike and camp with other gear junkies who love being outside as much as I do; second, the trip’s head honcho scored a coveted backcountry permit for the Indian Peaks Wilderness, providing immediate access to this stunning (but popular) 74,000-acre chunk of Rocky Mountains in my backyard.

Because Caribou Lake sits in the exposed shadow of the Divide, it experiences rapid, severe weather swings, or in other words, becomes prime gear-testing ground. And unsurprisingly, as we crested the pass, horizontal hail and wind slammed us from the west. We descended to the lake, found our camp spot, slung off our packs, and pitched our tents.

Just as we kicked back for happy hour, a slushy hail storm rolled in. So, we scooped handfuls of ice from the seats of camp chairs and plopped them into cocktails, then Starks whipped out new MSR stoves and cook kits and began frying up Korean BBQ, followed by hot pots piled with vegetables, noodles, and sizzled strips of salty meat.Within 15 minutes, the sky cleared up into a blood-red sunset, and we stood chatting, munching, and slurping to an alpenglow show, before crashing for the night and descending the next day. (For the record: the gear held up and The Mountain Chef’s cuisine was as stellar as the views.) It was bliss.

Camping in Colorado: With Hundreds of Options, These Are Some of the Best

Beyond burly backpacking overnights, Colorado has lots of other cool ways to catch Zzzs outdoors, including at trailheads and in fancy tents. Below, I’ve highlighted some notable and new places for camping in Colorado, broken down by type, from supported campgrounds to dispersed options, and more. Some of these spots are free and first-come, first-served, some require months of planning just to snag a reservation. But pick any one of these (mostly) off-grid gems and you won’t go wrong.

My bottom line? It doesn’t matter whether I’m camping with my kids, buddies, solo, or with other outdoor pros testing pots and pans in a hail storm—as long as I’m sleeping outside, I’m set.

Dispersed Camping

In Colorado, dispersed camping, a.k.a. primitive campsites are usually interspersed along dirt roads in public lands, outside of designated campgrounds. Opt for these options for solitude and the best stargazing around. Just don’t forget your own drinking water or filter, follow Leave No Trace Principles and pack out your trash, and know how to responsibly poop in the woods , please and thanks.

Pawnee Buttes

📍 Location: Pawnee National Grasslands, northeast of Ault in Eastern Colorado

Just 13 miles shy of the Wyoming border in northeastern Colorado, the Pawnee Buttes is part of Pawnee National Grasslands. Dispersed camping is allowed on the Pawnee National Grassland year-round and there are numerous primitive campsites off the network of dirt roads that are a short drive from the Pawnee Buttes Trailhead. Per usual for dispersed camping, there aren’t facilities at any of these sites, but you’ll find a bathroom and shelters at the official trailhead.

💰 The Cost: Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The main reason to drive up here is to hike the Pawnee Buttes Trail , a short but inspiring 4.4-mile out and back walk to two enormous sand and rock formations rising up from the plains. Note: It’s completely exposed to the elements, and summer temperatures easily reach 90-100°F, but early morning, spring, and fall are perfect times to visit, and camping near the trailhead gives you immediate sunrise and sunset options when it’s not as hot and bright.

Gross Reservoir / Winiger Ridge

📍 Location: West of Boulder, Front Range, Colorado

This chunk of White River National Forest only a few miles west of Boulder is accessible by high clearance 4WD only and offers a handful of free, dispersed camping spots, mostly along a ridge above Gross Reservoir. There is a vault toilet at Forsythe Canyon Trailhead , but none at the campsites, which are marked with numbered posts. Although this is technically still dispersed camping, you must find an available designated site and can’t just post up anywhere. National Forest System Road 359, which provides access, is open from mid-May through mid-November during a typical year.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The reservoir itself is open for regular and ice fishing, canoeing, and SUP (but no swimming allowed).

Bear River Developed Campsites in Flat Tops Wilderness Area

📍 Location: Near Yampa, in north-central Colorado

There are 30 designated dispersed campsites along the Bear River Corridor, which is the main eastern entrance road to Stillwater Reservoir and the Flat Tops Wilderness (Forest Service Road 900). You’ll find these spots with superb views along the road between several established Forest Service campgrounds, as well as a string of lakes and trailheads. Each site has a picnic table and fire grate and a numbered post.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The Flat Tops Wilderness spans the Routt National Forest and White River National Forest, with elevations ranging from 7,640 to 12,354 feet. It’s the third-largest Wilderness area in Colorado. Check out the 7-mile out and back hike to Keener Lake from Stillwater Reservoir.

Camping at Trailheads

The following trails allow primitive camping either in or near trailhead parking lots, providing optimal early-morning access to stunning hiking trails. Usually it’s explicitly prohibited to camp at most trailheads in Colorado, but here are a couple of interesting exceptions.

Sheep Creek Hot Springs

📍 Location: East of Durango, southwest Colorado

Okay, let’s clear this up right from the start: there are no hot springs, just some warmish algae covered spots on the Piedra River, at the bottom of this short trail into San Juan National Forest (at least, that’s what I found when I hiked and camped here in 2022). That said, it’s still a lovely walk in the woods and you can sleep outside around here. The Sheep Creek Hot Springs Trail descends a few hundred feet to the confluence of Sheep Creek and the Piedra River, then heads upstream along the latter over a flat, mossy, other-worldly forested river bank. There are backcountry campsites down there too, as well as a few car camping spots at the trailhead, all primitive with nothing but a fire ring and some downed logs to sit on.

💰 The Cost: Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Trout fishing on the Piedra River. Plus, check out Chimney Rock National Monument and the town of Pagosa Springs nearby, where you will indeed find incredible hot springs, plus some lovely shops and restaurants.

Picture Canyon

📍 Location: Comanche National Grassland, Southeast Colorado

This lonely, remote corner of the state doesn’t get as many visitors as mountainous destinations, making it all the more reason to visit. Archeologists estimate this area has been inhabited for over 12,000 years. Evidence includes projectile points, stone tools, charred bones, and rock shelter sites. There are 13 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails throughout this section of Comanche National Grassland. Dispersed camping is permitted in Picture Canyon, both in the picnic area by the parking lot, and along several dirt roads in the area. Campers may only use existing fire rings and park in designated areas, but there are a number of obvious spots to choose from with flat spots for tents and established fire pits.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The variety of habitat makes this a first-rate birding spot to view Eastern Phoebe, Scaled quail, Bullock’s oriole, eagles, burrowing owls, towhees, wrens, sparrows, grosbeaks, and more. You’ll want to hike to local examples of rock art, although much of it has been vandalized; there’s an interesting crack cave near an old homestead, about a mile’s walk in.

Best National Park/Monument Campgrounds

Many campers plan their entire Colorado trip around visits to the five national parks (this includes Amache National Historical Site , which was designated a national park in February 2024) and nine national monuments distributed throughout the state, most of which maintain and manage some pretty cool campgrounds. Here are a few of my favorites.

Aspenglen Campground

📍 Location: Rocky Mountain National Park , near Estes Park

One of the smaller, more remote-feeling campgrounds inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspenglen is located on the east side of the park, about a five-minute drive from the Fall River Entrance. The campground has four tight loops with 51 sites for tents and RVs up to 30 feet, including 10 tent-only sites. Its facilities are wheelchair-accessible, and picnic tables, grills, fire rings, and tent pads are provided by the National Park Service (NPS). Flush toilets, drinking water, dishwashing sinks, food lockers, campfire programs, an amphitheater, and a riding stable are also available. Leashed pets are permitted in the campground, but don’t forget they’re not allowed on any national park trails.

💰 The Cost: $26 per night; campers must also purchase a vehicle day pass (or have an annual NPS pass) 📆 Book It: Reserve here ; note that this campground fills up quickly when spots open up to six months in advance 🔎 Don’t Miss: Check out Horseshoe Park, the best place to see elk and bighorn sheep, as well as the 6-mile out-and-back Deer Mountain Trail , a singletrack day hike with epic views of Longs Peak, both of which are accessible from the campground. The Lawn Lake Trailhead is also a short drive away and is a strenuous 12.5 mile out-and-back hike up to the pristine high-alpine lake (which has a primitive campsite requiring an overnight permit).

Saddlehorn Campground

📍 Location: Colorado National Monument, near Fruita

Most Coloradans drive by Colorado National Monument on their way to Utah, never realizing that some canyons and rock features they seek exist just south of the interstate here. The monument protects 32 square miles of rock ridges and plateaus on the northern end of the Uncompahgre Uplift. Saddlehorn Campground, which is inside the National Monument, near the Visitor Center, is perched 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, with stunning panoramic views over the valley, including the towns of Fruita and Grand Junction.

💰 The Cost: $22 per night, plus park entrance 📆 Book It: Reserve here ; available up to six months in advance 🔎 Don’t Miss: During summer months, the campground hosts ranger-led campfire programs and guided walks. In winter, you can cross-country ski the monument’s trail system. Mountain biking and dogs are prohibited within the monument, but you can take a spin or bring your pup to most of the surrounding BLM land, worry-free. Additionally, campers may have the opportunity to join the Grand Junction astronomy club, which occasionally sets up telescopes at the campground for stargazing sessions.

Piñon Flats Campground

📍 Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve , San Luis Valley, Colorado

Piñon Flats is the official campground inside the national park, located at the base of the 30-square-mile dune field, across the creek. Piñon Flats has 88 campsites, plus a section for big groups. It’s important to note you can’t collect firewood inside the national park, but the camp store, visitors center, and the Oasis store and restaurant (just outside of the park) all sell locally sourced firewood. Piñon Flats campground has two loops of sites in a piñon-juniper woodland, some with privacy. Note that all sites are small, most can only accommodate one tent, and it can be a bit noisy in the mornings and evenings, as generators are allowed from 7A.M.–8P.M. But sunrise access to the dunes makes it worth it.

💰 The Cost: $20 per night (group sites are $65-80 per night for up to 40 people), plus park entrance 📆 Book It : Loop 1 is open year-round; the rest of the campground is open from late spring to early fall. Reservations are recommended and accepted for Loop 2 from mid-May to mid-September. 🔎 Don’t Miss : Most visitors spend a day exploring the dunes, hiking to any of the nearby shifting high points. If Medano Creek, the waterway that runs below the dunes, is flowing above ground (usually in late May and June), plan on some high-mountain “beach” time, splashing in the shallow water.

Unique Full-Service Campgrounds

These special spots sit on the camping spectrum, somewhere between forest service campgrounds and fancy glamping. They come in different sizes, with the biggest ones operating more like mini villages than remote nature experiences, but it’s that character that makes these worth visiting—especially for family reunions with large groups.

Campfire Ranch on the Taylor

📍 Location: Near Crested Butte, central Colorado

Campfire Ranch has several locations, including “on the Taylor,” where they offer tent, car, and van camping. They have onsite rental camping gear from leading outdoor brands and an “Adventure Concierge” that connects guests with local outfitters and activities. It’s located halfway between Crested Butte and Gunnison, about 15 minutes away from either outpost, and is surrounded by hundreds of miles of singletrack trails for day hikes, mountain biking, and trail runs.

💰 The Cost: Ranges from $67 per night for campsites to $130 per night for their “micro cabin” 📆 Book It: Season runs mid-May to early October. Most reservations can be made only 14 days in advance, though for 3+ campsites or for large groups you can reserve up to 6 months before your stay. 🔎 Don’t Miss: The Taylor Canyon is home to the gold-medal fishing waters of the Taylor River and decent whitewater for rafting and kayaking. Venture east to Taylor Park to enjoy one of Colorado’s most stunning high-alpine valleys for more fishing, boating, hiking, and off-roading adventures.

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain

📍 Location: Granby, Colorado

This huge collection of accommodations near the Colorado River, just across the road from Granby, is especially nice if you’re traveling with children or older folks. You can all stay comfortably at camping and non-camping accommodations, including RV hookups, tent sites, Airstream trailers, and covered Conestoga wagons. There are on-site amenities like a big pool, hot tubs, restaurant and bar, playgrounds, recreation center, arcade, and more. When I last stayed here with my mother and children, I was able to head out early for a long hike in Indian Peaks Wilderness, knowing that my family had plenty to do on Sun Outdoors’ campus. Pro tip: rent a golf cart to get around for added fun.

💰 The Cost : Summer rates for tent spots start at $67 per night, Airstream and wagons start at $155. Book early, especially for summer weekends. 📆 Book It : Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss : Day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park or Indian Peaks Wilderness, both to the east; soak at Hot Sulphur Springs , just to the west; or visit State Forest State Park , an hour to the north.

Dolores River RV Resort

📍 Location: Dolores, Four Corners Region, southwest Colorado

This river-side oasis in southwest Colorado is the perfect stopover between Four Corners and the San Juan Mountains, and it also operates like a micro-village. Most adventurers use this location as a basecamp, as it’s uniquely situated between destinations with awesome, 360-degree outdoor access. Stay in one of 78 tent or RV sites, or in a tepee, yurt, cabin, vintage trailer, or covered Conestoga wagon. All guests can use the community bathhouses, laundry machines, and a large common recreation hall, and enjoy grub from food trucks, as well as scheduled music and social events.

💰 The Cost : Tent and RV sites begin at $29 per night, and glamping options like a covered wagon start at $62 per night 📆 Book It : Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Check out Petroglyph Point Trail , a 2.5-mile loop, in Mesa Verde National Park . A little closer, just drive up Highway 145 which follows the Dolores River upstream toward the San Juans and Telluride. There are ample spots to pull off and explore, or head into the little town of Dolores and walk the Dolores River Trail.

Yurt and Wall Tent Camping

Yurts and wall tents feature sturdy, semi-permanent structures like wooden frames and tent platforms, providing a comfortable shelter in a rustic, natural setting. Tent material is typically thick, waterproof canvas, and you’re often sleeping on an actual bed, as opposed to the ground.

Rustic Rook Resort

📍 Location: Near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

Just off the approach road to the national park, this new camping compound offers furnished tents, upcycled grain bins (a.k.a. repurposed farm silos) with stargazing loft domes, plus a few vintage RVs. Rustic Rook is a family owned and operated business and has a handful of fully furnished platform tents with wood burning stoves (five have in-tent plumbing, guests at the rest use a community bath house). Rustic Rook serves fresh, pre-adventure breakfast burritos each morning and s’mores around the campfire at night.

💰 The Cost: $160-$330 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: In addition to the nearby national park, the San Luis Valley has an eclectic and alluring list of attractions, including a UFO Watchtower, Colorado Gators Reptile Park , and Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa .

Dunes Desert Camp

📍 Location: Near Mosca and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

This 320-acre private property in San Luis Valley has luxury safari tents with views of the surrounding valley and Sangre de Cristo mountains. The owner, Chris Mahoney, spent 14 years guiding safaris in Africa, so he’s well versed in luxury camping and works with Narrow Ridge Outdoors to arrange guided hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding, rafting, and 4WD tours. The tents are cozy and carpeted and have private stargazing porches. Plus, there’s a communal fire pit for grilling up tasty meals after a long day of adventuring.

💰 The Cost: Safari tents from $250 per night, campsites from $50 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Plan to hike around Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve early, so the sand isn’t so hot. Plus, you’ll experience the post-dawn light show on the dunes. Other area activities outside of the park include taking the short hike to Zapata Falls, birding at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge , and visiting the mountain town of Crestone.

Mudita Camel’s Yurt

📍 Location: South of Alamosa, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

I found this gem on Hipcamp—a solid resource for unique campsite reservations. Mudita Camel’s Yurt is a 35-acre, high-desert property in Trujillo Canyon surrounded by public lands and national forest in a striking and remote corner of the San Luis Valley. And, boy, does it deliver as advertised: a homey yurt next to a herd of photogenic camels that the owners take care of. Why camels? This herd is tangentially related to the now extinct Camelops that once roamed this valley, mingling with wooly mammoths and other Ice Age creatures, up until about 13,000 years ago. The yurt sleeps up to four, you can bring your pets, and your hosts may or may not be making soaps and other products from camel milk when you visit. Ask for a farm tour.

💰 The Cost: $137 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Ride the narrow gauge Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad , which follows the high passes between Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico. There’s also hiking in the Southern San Juan mountains (try Elk Creek Trail , a 3-mile out and back to incredible high-alpine meadows). After your train ride or hike, feast on the enormous platters at Dos Hermanas Mexican-American Steakhouse (on Main Street in Antonito).

📍 Location: Naturita, in Western Colorado

This unique, under-visited part of western Colorado, west of Telluride, is on the site of a repurposed abandoned mining community. CampV’s mission is to “combine art, history, architecture, design, outdoor recreation, and unique spaces,” and the result is quite unique as far as outdoor stays go. Crash the night in one of the fully furnished Airstreams, a Lotus Belle or safari tent, a historic restored luxe cabin, or at the primitive riverfront campsites. There are RV hookup sites as well.

💰 The Cost: Tent sites from $30 per night, glamping options from $155, cabins from $185 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: CampV offers an on-site “Stargazing and Snuggles” experience in an old, empty water tank, where they’ll set you up with blankets, a fire, and hot drinks, and a chance to enjoy the certified Dark Sky above. You can also hike or bike the 4.1 mile out-and-back Shamrock Trail to the confluence of the San Miguel and Dolores River.

Snow Mountain Ranch Yurts

📍 Location: Near Winter Park and Granby, Colorado

This is one of Colorado’s best family destinations, run by YMCA of the Rockies at Snow Mountain Ranch. It’s a massive 5,000-acre affair with lodges, cabins, campgrounds, and yes, a yurt village. Each yurt sleeps six guests via one queen bed and two bunk beds, and has a tent pad, picnic table, and fire pit outside. Available from June to October, yurt amenities include a public bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets, and a dish-cleaning area.

💰 The Cost: $140 per night 📆 Book It: Reservations open the first Wednesday of January each year and fill up quickly for summer 🔎 Don’t Miss: There is an enormous menu of on-site activities right on site, both indoor and outdoor; my kids’ favorites are roller skating and the climbing wall. The craft center is also a big hit, not to mention, the campus has playgrounds, tubing hills (in both summer and winter), horseback riding, and a pool. You’re also not far from the west entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. In winter, use the on-site nordic ski trail system, or head to Granby Ranch, a smaller, less crowded ski area minutes away.

Joshua Berman is a teacher, wilderness instructor, writer, and former wildland firefighter, who has been camping and hiking in Colorado for 20 years. He is the author of seven books, including Moon Colorado Camping and Moon Colorado Hiking , and a contributor to The Denver Post travel column, “Around Colorado.”

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• 7 Coolest Towns in North Carolina for a Summer Vacation in 2024

North Carolina is home to some of the most amazing adventures in the country. To the west is the Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway and to the east are gorgeous beaches and the Point near Hatteras Island , one of the best recreational angling locations in the country. Beyond the natural wonders of North Carolina also lies the amazing history within it, the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence was written in 1775, with North Carolina voting to cede from Great Britain a year before the other colonies, and being one of the first locations where Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) were used during World War II.

North Carolina has played a very important role in the history of the United States, and even today, people flock to some of the natural landscapes for once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Beyond the cities of Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington lie smaller towns, just as beautiful and impactful without the big city nuisances.

A visitor cannot go wrong by choosing to travel to Beaufort. Beaufort is located about two hours from Raleigh and Wilmington, respectively, and is typically a quieter location. Beaufort is a great location for those interested in North Carolina 's coastal history, filled with pirates, spies, and love stories, or seeing pristine natural environments.

Beaufort is the location where Captain Blackbeard's Queen Anne's Revenge was found shipwrecked and many of its remnants can be found at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, having been removed and then preserved after its discovery in 1996. The Maritime Museum in Beaufort has several other exhibits and activities, with a lucky visitor being able to occasionally touch a preserved whale heart on Valentine's Day or access the museum's maritime library.

History comes alive in Beaufort with very unique history tours. Beaufort has a 1967 double-decker British bus, bright red of course, used for historic tours of the town with tales of pirates and spies in abundance. After finishing the historic tour, a visit to the Old Burying Ground, the final resting place for individuals that have spanned almost 300 years of Beaufort history, might be in order. The Old Burying Ground also has available tours year-round, as long as the weather permits.

For those with the time, a paddle or ferry out to Shackleford Banks may be in order to see the wild horses on the shores. Shackleford Banks is part of the larger Cape Lookout National Seashore, an internationally ranked dark sky. Occasionally, the National Park Service also hosts astronomy nights so amateur astronomists can learn about constellations.

Brevard is a mountain town that is close to the heart of many North Carolinians. Brevard is about two and a half hours from Charlotte , North Carolina and Knoxville , Tennessee , and seated between Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. Brevard is surrounded by forests and mountains, drawing many visitors to locations like Looking Glass Rock for its hiking and climbing activities. There are also many waterfalls in Brevard, including Rainbow Falls, which requires only a short mile-and-a-half hike to see.

While you are hiking or walking around Brevard, you might see some peculiarly white squirrels in the area. Brevard has white variants of the Eastern Gray Squirrel and even holds a festival in their honor. Legend has it that a pair of squirrels were left behind when a carnival went through the town, but every resident has their own version. Importantly, the white squirrels make up a third of Brevard's squirrel population with people coming from all over to see them.

If you are not quite ready to put on your hiking boots for this trip, the Brevard Music Center might be just the place for you. A premier music institute focusing on classical music, the Brevard Music Center hosts a summer music festival from June to August with previous musicians being the likes of Yo-Yo Ma and Renee Fleming among the almost 100 performances each year.

When you get hungry during your adventures, head over to the Pisgah Bakehouse, a predominantly pizza location with other options like Braised Beef Cheek and Strawberry Breton Tart. Many of the incredible ingredients at the Pisgah Bakehouse are sourced locally so your dollars are even further contributing to the community.

Whether you grew up on the Andy Griffith Show as it came out on the screen or watched reruns, Mount Airy is the perfect Mayberry for you. In fact, Mount Airy was the inspiration for Mayberry. Less than two hours from Charlotte , just over two hours from Raleigh , and less than an hour from Winston-Salem , Mount Airy is a great location in western North Carolina to visit in 2024.

The biggest draw to Mount Airy is its focus on the Andy Griffith Show, the town has a replica courthouse and the Andy Griffith Museum for visitors to enjoy. After visiting the replica courthouse and touring the museum, you might be keen on heading down to Opies Candy Store to grab something sweet while strolling through Mount Airy. If you get tired of strolling, you can take a tour of the town on one of Mayberry's Squad Car Tours, with visits to some of the show's favorite places. On the Mayberry Squad Car Tours' website, it mentions that they take up to five passengers at a time for 50 dollars, making it a great, affordable attraction.

If you are not interested in the Mayberry vibes, Mount Airy has a lot to offer outside of that, surrounded by mountains and forests, Mount Airy has old bones. Home to the Rockford General Store from the National Register of Historic Places, it has been in operation since 1890. Rockford General Store is where visitors can buy a glass bottle, drink, and some candies before taking a self-guided walking tour of the historic village. For those hoping to be in the fresh air, Pilot Mountain State Park is a twenty-minute drive with options for camping, rock climbing, hiking, and paddling while overlooking the beautiful scenery. Overall, Mount Airy is the perfect little vacation spot for anyone hoping to get away.

Topsail Island

Topsail Island is in the southern part of the Outer Banks , just about an hour north of Wilmington . It has the beautiful and accessible beaches of Wilmington but a quieter atmosphere. The island is home to three small towns, all of which have just a few thousand people combined, making it a great location for someone looking for a nice beach getaway.

In North Carolina , Topsail Island is known as a great location to comb the beach for tiny shark teeth. Public access is not typically an issue, as parking is found in small lots across the southern portion of the island. Topsail Island is also a great place to sit down and have a picnic while getting your summer tan.

Topsail Island is a great location for access to the beach, but the sound side of the island is a great access for kayaking or paddle boarding. For paddlers bringing their own equipment, there are free launches around the island, but for those needing a rental, Paddle NC has a location in North Topsail where visitors can rent out equipment as well as sign up for ecotours of the sound.

After paddling across the sound, consider renewing your energy with a lunch at Splash by the Sea. Splash by the Sea is primarily seafood with other menu items, including gluten-free options like tuna nachos described as "seared ahi tuna over gluten-free crispy tortillas" with other ingredients.

For the lover of indoor environments, the Missiles and More Museum might be the best option for you. Missiles and More Museum is a great place to learn about Women Airforce Service Pilots who flew over North Carolina 's eastern coast during World War II or about Operation Bumblebee, the U.S. Navy's secret missile test program from the mid to late 1940s. After visiting the museum, you can even be able to drive past several of the watch towers that were used for Operation Bumblebee.

With mild summers, Boone is the place to be to beat the heat in a North Carolina summer. Boone is a relatively close hour and a half from Winston-Salem and just under two hours from Asheville . Boone is also surrounded by other small, beautiful mountain towns like Banner Elk and Blowing Rock while sitting very close to the North Carolina-Tennessee border.

Sitting on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone is also very close to the well-known Grandfather Mountain. Great for those looking to hike to the top and see the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains. After a visit to Grandfather Mountain, a tour of the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, with native plants from the region, might be in order to feel the spirit of Boone.

Tweetsie Railroad is a must-see for anyone spending more than a few hours in Boone. It is a Wild West-themed amusement park where visitors hop onto a historic locomotive, feed local animals, or enjoy events like Tweetsie Christmas and Ghost Trains during appropriate seasons. For individuals more interested in the history of Boone, a visit to the Hickory Ridge History Museum may be in order. Tours of the cabins and living history interpreters make this museum a unique opportunity to explore the town in a new light.

New Bern is about an hour west of Beaufort and two hours north of Wilmington . It was founded in the 1700s by Swiss immigrants and was the original capital of North Carolina. New Bern has been a key location throughout history, but even today, much of it is very proud of its original Swiss heritage, with symbols of a bear found throughout the town.

New Bern's long history means that it has some beautiful, old locations to admire and take pictures at, the first being Tryon Palace. With multiple structures and 16 acres of gardens, Tryon Palace is a fantastic place for visitors hoping to take beautiful pictures at a historic location, as well as art galleries for viewing. Guided tours of the various gardens, offices, and buildings are also available with varying ticket purchases.

Another claim to fame that New Bern possesses is being the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. A store full of Pepsi-related memorabilia is currently found at the original location, creatively named The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. A simple stroll around downtown New Bern could find you at this location.

After a great day, seeing the sites in New Bern, sit down for a meal at Baxter's 1892, a jazz club-inspired bar and restaurant in the heart of the historic district. With desserts like a triple chocolate layer cake or Baxter's apple cobbler, while being supplied with live music events regularly held, you may never want to leave!

Little Switzerland

When heading away from the beach, Little Switzerland is the place to go. An hour from Asheville and two hours from Charlotte , this little town sits right on the Blue Ridge Parkway making it a great location to hike during the summer and the possibility of the colors starting to change at the very end of summer.

A dream stay might include waking up at La Petite Chalet, a colorful and eclectic Swiss-styled bed and breakfast before heading over to visit Emerald Village, a location to learn about North Carolina's mining industry while panning for gold, looking for gemstones, or visiting the mining museum. Outdoorsy visitors might prefer to take the three mile hike to Crabtree Falls, although it is mentioned as being a strenuous endeavor, before visiting the Little Switzerland Orchard and Winery for a taste of local ciders. If you are lucky, you might be visiting for a weekend in July or August, which means an evening of square dancing at Geneva Hall before going back to your bed and breakfast to sit around a small fire.

If you are hoping to summer at the beach, hike up a mountain, or go to an amusement park with the family, North Carolina has something available for everyone. From pirates to pioneers, spies to ghosts, there are opportunities to enjoy, and reimagine, yourself for a stay in North Carolina . Take a minute to decide where in North Carolina you want to experience the living history and gorgeous outdoors this summer and then pack your bags. If you are interested in more articles from North Carolina or did not find a perfect fit for your vacation, take a look at other World Atlas articles.

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Video shows Tornado in southeast Nebraska Friday afternoon as severe weather hits area

A tornado was spotted on the ground in southeast Nebraska where several warnings have been placed for the western portions of the Omaha metro area.

The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado north of Waverly, Nebraska that was moving to the northeast shortly after 3 p.m. local time Friday. Officials urged those in the area to seek shelter immediately.

A massive tornado intercept was seen north of Lincoln, also in Lancaster County, footage posted on X (formerly Twitter) by SevereStudios weather videographer Nick Gorman shows.

See more videos of damage: Photos, videos show destruction left behind by Midwest tornadoes in Nebraska, Iowa

Tornado warnings were set Friday afternoon for an area near Interstate 80 between Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska State Patrol said.

Nebraska weather map

Tornadoes reported in kansas, wyoming, colorado.

At least three other tornadoes have been reported since Thursday including one near Bird City, Kansas, one in Yoder, Wyoming and another near Akron, Colorado, according to the National Weather Service.

Other storms are expected to develop on the eastern side of the Plains on Friday, bringing more possible tornadoes and hail. The threat of more severe weather is possible by Saturday with storms causing frequent lightning, severe wind gusts over the middle Mississippi Valley and central and southern Plains.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster emergency proclamation due to the severe weather.

"I encourage all Kansans to have an emergency kit and a family plan in preparation for a tornado," Gov. Kelly said. "Stay updated on local weather conditions by listening to a NOAA weather radio or local TV and radio stations. Once a warning is activated, it is important to take cover."

US weather watches and warnings

National weather radar.