Best Places to visit in Colorado, United States | Top 12 | USA Travel Guide

COLORADO 

Welcome to the vibrant and diverse state of Colorado.

Nestled in the western United States within the Mountain West sub-region, Colorado boasts an array of cities and towns that are rich with natural beauty, captivating charm, and an extensive variety of cultural and outdoor attractions. The state's landscape is a stunning mix of natural wonders, ranging from serene alpine lakes and arid desert lands to winding rivers, the majestic Rocky Mountains, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls. For outdoor enthusiasts, Colorado offers endless adventures in its mountain towns, while those who prefer a more leisurely pace can enjoy scenic drives along the state’s highways and through its numerous parks. Colorado truly stands out as a destination unlike any other.

Join World Travel Picks as we embark on an extraordinary journey to uncover the 12 best places to visit in Colorado.

Number 12: Crested Butte

Crested Butte, a former coal mining town nestled in Gunnison County, Colorado, is a place where history and nature intertwine. Positioned within the Elk Mountain Range, this charming town is fondly known as the gateway to the Elk Mountains. Crested Butte has earned the title of Colorado’s wildflower capital and is also celebrated as "the last great Colorado ski town." While it may not be the easiest town to reach, Crested Butte offers exactly what visitors crave: a rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, modern charm, and a sense of remoteness that makes it a perfect vacation spot. Whether you’re drawn to its steep ski slopes or its vibrant wildflower meadows, Crested Butte is a destination that will capture your heart.

Highlights:

• Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado.
• Offers a mix of historical charm and natural beauty.
• A top destination for skiing and wildflower viewing.

Tips:

• Visit during the summer to experience the full bloom of wildflowers.
• If you’re a skier, plan your trip in winter for some of the best slopes in Colorado.

Number 11: Grand Junction

Located on the western side of the continental divide, Grand Junction is the vibrant capital of Colorado's western slope, an area that encompasses about one-third of the state. This region is renowned for its rugged and unspoiled landscapes, which offer a wealth of outdoor experiences. From epic viewpoints and challenging hiking trails to rust-colored canyons, state parks, and mountain biking tracks, the western slope is a playground for adventurers. Grand Junction, with its dramatic scenery and endless opportunities for exploration, stands as a gateway to some of the most extraordinary experiences Colorado has to offer.

Highlights:

• Grand Junction is the gateway to Colorado’s western slope.
• Ideal for adventure seekers with activities like hiking and mountain biking.
• Offers stunning viewpoints and rugged, unspoiled landscapes.

Tips:

• Don’t miss the Colorado National Monument for some of the best views in the region.
• Explore the local vineyards and enjoy some of Colorado’s best wines.

Number 10: Denver

Denver, often referred to as the "Mile-High City," is one of America’s most dynamic and rapidly growing urban centers. Situated exactly one mile above sea level, Denver combines urban sophistication with the rugged spirit of the West. The city is steeped in cowboy and mining history and serves as a hub for winter sports enthusiasts, given its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. But Denver is more than just a gateway to the outdoors—it’s a city where culture, adventure, and history meet, offering visitors a unique blend of modern amenities and thrilling experiences.

Highlights:

• Denver’s unique position as a mile-high city.
• A blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.
• Rich history rooted in cowboy and mining culture.

Tips:

• Explore Denver’s craft beer scene, one of the best in the country.
• Use Denver as a base for exploring the nearby Rocky Mountains.

Number 9: Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a town that wears its history on its sleeve, with roots that stretch back to its days as a mining hub in the picturesque Rocky Mountains. Today, Breckenridge is known not only as one of the country’s premier ski resorts but also as a destination that offers year-round attractions. The town’s main streets are lined with buildings painted in vibrant colors, dating back to the 1880s, along with galleries and restaurants that invite you to linger. In the summer, Breckenridge comes alive with opportunities for adventure, from hiking on scenic trails and fly-fishing in the Blue River to boating on Lake Dillon, exploring wildflower-strewn meadows, and even enjoying roller coasters and white-water rafting. This historic town offers a perfect blend of the old and the new, making it a must-visit destination in Colorado.

Highlights:

• Breckenridge’s rich mining history and vibrant downtown.
• Year-round destination with activities ranging from skiing to hiking.
• Beautiful wildflower meadows and scenic summer adventures.

Tips:

• Visit during winter for world-class skiing or in summer for hiking and wildflower viewing.
• Explore the local shops and galleries for unique souvenirs.

Number 8: Vail

Vail is synonymous with world-class snowboarding and skiing, and for good reason. This iconic town, nestled within the White River National Forest at the base of Vail Mountain, is home to North America’s largest and most popular ski resort. While Vail’s winter sports are legendary, the town also transforms into a summer paradise, offering activities such as hiking, golfing, and a host of cultural festivals. Vail is a place where the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains meets the luxury of a top-tier resort town, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike.

Highlights:

• Vail is home to North America’s largest ski resort.
• A year-round destination offering skiing, hiking, and cultural festivals.
• Luxurious resort town with stunning Rocky Mountain views.

Tips:

• Book your accommodations early, especially during peak ski season.
• Explore Vail’s summer festivals for a unique cultural experience.

Number 7: Great Sand Dune National Park

The Great Sand Dune National Park is a place of otherworldly beauty, where a vast sea of sand stretches for over 30 miles, containing more than 5 billion cubic meters of sand. Located in southern Colorado, this park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, some of which rise more than 750 feet into the sky. Designated a national monument in 1932, this park offers much more than just sand. Visitors can explore towering peaks that soar over 13,000 feet, alpine lakes, tundra, pine forests, wetlands, grasslands, and ancient spruce. As you stand in awe of the majestic sand dunes, you can also take in the breathtaking vistas of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, making this a truly unforgettable destination.

Highlights:

• Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.
• Stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
• Offers a variety of landscapes, from sand dunes to alpine lakes.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat.
• Try sandboarding or sledding down the dunes for an unforgettable experience.

Number 6: Gunnison National Park

Gunnison National Park, located near the city of Montrose in Western Colorado, is a place of striking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. The park is bisected by the 48-mile-long Gunnison River, which winds its way through 14 miles of the park’s most iconic feature—the black canyons. These canyons were formed over millions of years as the river carved through ancient Precambrian metamorphic rock, some of which is estimated to be around 1.7 billion years old. The result is a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and humbling, with the steep canyon walls often cloaked in shadow, giving them a dark, almost black appearance. Gunnison National Park is a place that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Highlights:

• Features the dramatic black canyons carved by the Gunnison River.
• The canyon walls are some of the steepest in North America.
• Offers a unique and awe-inspiring landscape.

Tips:

• Take a drive along the South Rim Road for some of the best views.
• For a more immersive experience, hike down into the canyon if you’re up for a challenge.

Number 5: Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a city that combines the heart of a small town with the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Located at the eastern foot of these towering peaks, the city is home to a wide range of attractions, from parks and museums to zoos and historic trains. The nearby Pikes Peak, one of the tallest mountains in the Rockies, offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. The striking red sandstone formations at Garden of the Gods Park add to the dramatic scenery, while the city itself offers a rich military and Olympic history. Colorado Springs is a place where natural beauty and cultural heritage come together in perfect harmony.

Highlights:

• Gateway to Pikes Peak, one of the tallest mountains in the Rockies.
• Home to the famous Garden of the Gods Park with striking red rock formations.
• Rich in military and Olympic history.

Tips:

• Take the Pikes Peak Highway for breathtaking views or ride the Cog Railway for a unique experience.
• Visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center for insights into the park’s geology and history.

Number 4: Aspen

Aspen lies at the heart of the White River National Forest, cradled by the stunning peaks of the Elk Mountains. Initially a silver mining town in the late 1800s, it has transformed into a renowned ski resort and outdoor recreation destination. Aspen offers visitors not only luxurious amenities like high-end restaurants and boutique shopping but also an array of adventure activities. Whether it's skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, hot air ballooning, or fly-fishing, Aspen delivers year-round outdoor excitement, all set against breathtaking natural surroundings.

Highlights:

• Aspen's origins as a silver mining town.
• World-class skiing and luxurious amenities.
• Year-round outdoor activities, including hiking and rock climbing.

Tips:

• Visit during winter for exceptional skiing or in summer for hiking and fly-fishing.
• Check out Aspen's cultural offerings, such as the Aspen Music Festival, for a blend of adventure and culture.

Number 3: Telluride

Telluride, the most populous town in San Miguel County, sits in a picturesque box canyon in southwestern Colorado. Surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls, this historic mining town exudes charm. Beyond its scenic beauty, Telluride is recognized as a National Historic Landmark District due to its rich mining history. Visitors can experience outdoor activities like skiing and hiking while soaking in the town's storied past, all set against breathtaking mountain vistas.

Highlights:

• Nestled in a scenic box canyon surrounded by towering peaks.
• Rich in mining history, preserved as a National Historic Landmark District.
• A destination for outdoor adventures like skiing and hiking.

Tips:

• Visit during the Telluride Film Festival for a unique blend of cinema and mountain beauty.
• Don’t miss a hike to Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado.

Number 2: Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde National Park is perched on a forested mesa in Colorado’s southwestern corner and is home to some of the most extraordinary cliff dwellings in the United States. With over 4,000 protected archaeological sites, this area was once occupied by nomadic Native Americans approximately 2,000 years ago. The park’s fascinating historical and archaeological significance is complemented by its rugged beauty. Visitors can explore ancient ruins while hiking through canyons and across mesas, immersing themselves in the unique ecosystem of the region.

Highlights:

• One of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the U.S.
• Home to over 4,000 archaeological wonders, including cliff dwellings.
• A rich history of Native American occupation dating back thousands of years.

Tips:

• Plan a ranger-led tour to explore the cliff dwellings up close.
• Don’t miss the hike to Petroglyph Point for spectacular views and ancient rock carvings.

Number 1: Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park covers an impressive 265,807 acres in northern Colorado and offers a sweeping range of mountain ecosystems. From the towering peaks and pristine alpine lakes to wildlife-packed meadows and dense forests, the park is a nature lover’s dream. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails caters to all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore everything from gentle half-mile strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. Along the way, you’re likely to encounter wildlife such as elk, deer, and bighorn sheep, making it a haven for animal enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Highlights:

• Expansive national park with stunning mountain environments.
• An extensive trail system for hiking, from short paths to multi-day adventures.
• Abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.

Tips:

• Drive the Trail Ridge Road for panoramic views of the park’s diverse landscapes.
• Visit during autumn to witness the elk rut, a mesmerizing wildlife spectacle.

Conclusion:

Colorado’s vast and diverse landscapes make it an extraordinary destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde, each region offers its own unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Whether you're hiking through the rugged terrain of Rocky Mountain National Park, exploring the historic charm of Aspen and Telluride, or marveling at the archaeological wonders of Mesa Verde, Colorado promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler. With its endless possibilities for exploration and discovery, it’s no wonder that Colorado stands as one of the top destinations in the U.S. for scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.