5.0Garden of the Gods(17.7k reviews) - Best Ever "City Park" Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks
Jam-packed with dramatic rock formations, the Garden of the Gods is a prime spot for hiking amid beautiful scenery. Stop for a photo by the Steamboat Rock, then set out to trek the 21 miles of trails within the park. The 1.5-mile-long Perkins Central Garden Trail is wheelchair accessible and runs between all the major sights like the Kissing Camels. On your way back, grab a snack and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop. Located on the outskirts of Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods can be visited for free—parking included. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Cave of the Winds Mountain Park(4.289 reviews) - Worth the visit!!! Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Discovered in 1881, Cave of the Winds has been a premier Colorado attraction for more than a century. Explore amazing caverns, experience total cave darkness, and marvel at the beauty of formations hundreds of thousands of years old. Then step outside and walk on the wind on the Wind Walker Challenge Course, fly like a bat on the Bat-a-Pult, and dive into Williams Canyon on the one of a kind aerial dive ride, the TERROR-Dactyl. Lots of family fun, amazing views and memories to last a lifetime!See more..
5.0Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours(2.613 reviews) - Zipline Guides Were AMAZING Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
I’ve never been zip lining before and I was pretty nervous about it. The tour guides that I was zip lining with were nothing short of amazing. Cody and Slo were very knowledgeable, funny and extremely accommodating. They showed that you can do something as fun as this, enjoy the views and love every second of it as well as making it very safe for literally anyone. I met some amazing other people in the group as well. Never felt rushed and never felt like I wasn’t in good hands. As someone with a fear of heights, this was perfect, the lines gradually increased in length, and also speed. It was the perfect beginners tour. This trip was a blast and I would highly recommend the tour to anyone that is thinking about it.See more..
4.5Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park(2.184 reviews) - Something for everyone Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Our NEW Glenwood Gondola includes 44 detachable, six-passenger cabins with trips up the mountain averaging 7-8 minutes instead of the 12-13 minutes as in the past. We are located in historic Glenwood Springs, Colorado and offer a unique mountain-top adventure that's fun for the whole family. Some rides are seasonal; a list of which attractions are open can be found on our website. Great for groups, family reunions and birthday parties. Your visit to the Glenwood Caverns promises a unique, mountain-top adventure and memories to last a lifetime. The wholesome fun of nature-based educational activities combined with attractions to please die-hard thrill seekers makes this the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends.See more..
Super fun time! There are 10 lines starting easy and all the way 1/4 mile long. Check was smooth and well timed. We had guides with us who took pictures all along the way for purchase after the experience for $35 online. Overall a great time. Just note that there is 1 1/2 miles of hiking and 75 stairs to get to the lines along the way. The stopping mechanisms are a little rough and scary as well. But I still had a fun time and would do it again!See more..
5.0Colorado Adventure Center(1.501 reviews) - Wet and fun family rafting Monday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
Our family with teenagers went on the intermediate rafting trip in late July. Our guide Joe was funny and knowledgeable not only about rafting but the history of the area as well. We felt safe and yet got as much thrill as was possible even in low water season. Plenty of splashes! This outfit was professional with buildings (not just temporary tent set-ups) and proper bathrooms on site. Very convenient that all the gear you need is included in the fee and not extra.See more..
Originally established in 1898 to bring culture to rural areas, this beautiful park hosts cultural events, features rock climbing sites, lovely gardens and picnic areas and is the starting point for many hiking trails.Year-round lodging, dining and events available.See more..
Waterfalls cascade through canyon walls at this park near Ouray.See more..
4.5Red Rock Canyon(1.183 reviews) - Red Rock Canyon-amazing. Monday: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Parks • Geologic Formations
In its own way, just as spectacular as Garden of the Gods. Not as big and grand, but you are allowed to get up close to the rock formations as you walk among them. Several spots that give you the view of the entire area rock formations-from Red Rock Canyon through to the Garden of the Gods and the surrounding smaller rocks. Really puts the whole area into a great perspective. This is a view only from the Canyon. Well worth the time to hike the much quieter trail system. Went on a Monday just before noon and saw less than 50 people.See more..
Canyon for which this national park was named.See more..
4.5Great Sand Dunes National Park(998 reviews) - What a fun experience! Spent More than 3 hours Mountains • National Parks • Deserts
This was so much fun! Sand boarding down the sand dunes was my favorite thing I did in Colorado. Here are some tips: 1. If you are looking to rent a sand board or sled, there is a place called Great Sand Dunes Oasis. This place is close to the sand dunes and is on your way to and back. It’s only $20 for a board or a sled. You are able to rent them but gotta return to the store before they close. 2. The visitor fee to the sand dunes is $25. 3. I would recommend wearing sandals or water shoes to the sand dunes. There is quite a walk to the actual sand dunes. There is an area in the middle that you have to cross that have water flowing through. So expect to get your feet wet. Plus if you are renting a sand board/ sled, they recommend you to use it barefoot or with socks on.See more..
Great group activity during Covid! They sanitize everything, take temperatures, and promote masks. Just FYI the hike to zipline is moderate so not for beginners. *kids could easily do it but would not recommend for older adults without good fitness level.See more..
5.0AVA Rafting & Zipline(795 reviews) - Zipline/Upper Creek 1/2 Day Combo Monday: 7:45 AM - 8:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks • Boat Tours • Climbing Tours • Water Sports
I booked the zipline and rafting experience to celebrate my husband's 40th birthday. Our zipline guides were Brina and Tini and they made the trip so enjoyable. My husband is a little afraid of heights and they alleviated all fear and he had the best time! They were very thorough in explaining each of the different stations of the zipline experience and we felt very safe and secure the entire time. We then took an hour break in town and had a nice lunch before returning for the Upper Creek rafting experience. I had never been rafting and was nervous for the category of rapids we had chosen. Our guide Dagnar was beyond amazing! He was very reassuring, made sure we were prepared and even gave us an extra thrill while rafting. We could not have had a better experience!!!! I highly recommend the combination package as well as the specific guides to make your trip amazing! *I wore a bathing suit under my wet suit but would also recommend wicking shirt/shorts for rafting*See more..
5.0KODI Rafting in Colorado(736 reviews) - Our Family had a Blast! Monday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks • Gear Rentals • Stand Up Paddleboarding
Our family had a fantastic experience doing the 1/2 Day Brown's Canyon float. We had ages 60 - 7 on the raft and our guide Derek was the best! He manuevered around the rocks like a true professional, explaining and instructing while pointing out cool things along the way. It was a bit of everything - thrilling, exciting, beautiful scenery, and at the calm stretch the kids jumped in. We had a blast!See more..
4.5The John Denver Sanctuary(724 reviews) - it really is a Sanctuary in Rio Grande Park Parks • Monuments & Statues
The John Denver Sanctuary is an open space and park which is open to the public for FREE from dawn to dusk. There is no fencing around the area and no tickets are required for entry to the Sanctuary and surrounding trails.See more..
4.0Colorado Adventure Park(703 reviews) - Highly recommend over the other competition Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks
Come join us at the Colorado Adventure Park, Fraser's most exciting tubing hill! We have four different runs ranging from easy to most difficult, so there's something for everyone! We also have snowscoots that are mini snowmobiles for kids between the ages of 6 and 13! Perfect for kids who are craving a little more than tubing. Young kids? No problem, we have a mini sledding hill for children under the age of 3 that is free of charge! Come in or call us today for more information! We look forward to seeing you on the hill!See more..
4.5Hovenweep National Monument(700 reviews) - Smaller than Chaco Canyon, but no less impressive Spent 2-3 hours Ancient Ruins • National Parks • Monuments & Statues
Located in Utah but near Cortez, this site has six ruin sites all built around 1200 AD. Hovenweep is 42 miles from Cortez, CO and approximately 48 from Blanding, UTSee more..
Largest juried outdoor sculpture show in the United States, takes place each year over the second weekend in August.See more..
4.5Washington Park(609 reviews) - Strolling, Biking, Skating, Walking, Talking with Plenty Places to Picnic, Parks • Gardens
This iconic park has been a mainstay for folks of all ages who live in the city. Residents come from all the blocks around to exercise, socialize, and gather with others. On any given day you will find many Denverites getting some fresh air and taking care of their physical and emotional bodies. You will also find loads of wildlife with geese and ducks as well as squirrels. Parking is limited so try to find another way to the area. See more..
5.0San Juan National Forest(582 reviews) - Pass Creek Trail to Engineer Mt--Gorgeous Wildflowers National Parks • Forests
Wilderness area consisting of forested mountains, 14,000-foot peaks, scenic roads, geological formations, prehistoric communities and a narrow-gauge railroad.See more..
4.5Cherry Creek State Park(521 reviews) - The Cherry Creek Family Shooting Center is a Gem Monday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
Part of Cherry Creek State Park, this recreation area offers miles of bike trails.See more..
4.5North Pole - Santa's Workshop(520 reviews) - Perfect adventure for young children and grandmother. Temporarily closed - Closed until May 27, 2023 Amusement & Theme Parks
The North Pole is a Christmas Themed amusement park on the base of Pikes Peak. The park has over 24 rides, a village of shops, a magic show, several food areas and a village of unique shops. Plan for a full day of family fun! We are open mid May- December 24, check our website for exact dates!See more..
4.0Water World(448 reviews) - Tips for Water World Denver Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Water Parks
Water World is America's premiere park with over 50 water attractions across 70 acres and located just 10 minutes north of Downtown Denver. The park is a great place for families with rides for adults and children and offers free parking and picnics are welcomed too. Save the most when you plan your visit and buy online!See more..
4.5Roxborough State Park(439 reviews) - If you have extra time in Denver.... do not miss Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM State Parks • Hiking Trails • Geologic Formations
What a surprise; we were introduced to this State Park by another website and had the time to visit while we were in the Littleton (Denver) area. What A Treat !! If you have been to the Garden Of The Gods in Colorado Springs, this is equal to OR even better. We walked the 1.5-hour circle Fountain Valley loop trail; it was easy with a few inclines and rest stops. Most of it was in the sun ( not much shade), so take water and sunscreen. The price has gone up to $10, and cash is required as the CC machine is nonoperable. Enjoy.See more..
Awesome zip line experience. We were in the first group of the day because it was monsoon season and weather is always an issue by the afternoon. We had a great group and two excellent guides. This was the first zip line that I have done over and through a canyon. Everyone had a great time. The one thing this zip line has that I have not experienced at other zip lines I have done (Montana, Tennessee and Hawaii) was the cliff jump. You get the option of going front or backwards. Definitely do it backwards! It is an incredible experience. It is more expensive than other zip lines, but you do get more for your money. It is easily accessible from Vail or Eagle.See more..
We made a brief stop here on our way from Colorado Springs to Leadville. Both of the kids (6 and 8) were very excited about earning Junior Ranger badges and completing activities in the booklet they were given. I loved that the booklet encouraged them to learn about what they were seeing and to experience it in ways they might not have, like sketching a pine tree or touching an aspen and describing how the bark felt. All of the rangers were very friendly and wonderful with my kids’ questions, even helping my son identify pictures he took of wildflowers while hiking. There are several trails, even accessible trails to make the space enjoyable for everyone. Kids were free, and the $10 each for adults gained us access for seven days. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to return this time and explore more, but we hope to in the future.See more..
We stopped by the park on our way back from the Royal Gorge Park so unfortunately we did not have much time to spend in the park and that was a shame. This park is part of the Colorado Springs regional park system and is simply a hidden gem of a park. It has beautiful hiking trails from easy to difficult with waterfalls and beautiful views of the surrounding area. We hiked to Helen Falls and were enamored by the beauty of the falls and the surrounding forests. It felt so calm and relaxing hearing the water falls amongst the silence of the trees. There is no entry fee which is an additional bonus. When we come back to Colorado Springs, one of our first stops would be to come here and spend more time in this beautiful park. I would recommend to come early morning if it is in the summer in order to beat the heat and hot sun of the afternoon. A definite must!See more..
4.5Frisco Adventure Park(363 reviews) - Family Fun Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Ski & Snowboard Areas
The Frisco Adventure Park is minutes from Frisco's charming Main Street, and in the winter, hosts a lift assisted tubing hill and a beginner ski/ride hill, 27k of cross-country ski trails, 8k of snowshoe trails, and horse drawn sleigh rides and dinners. Both the tubing hill and ski/ride hill require reservations, and ski and board lessons are available. A friendly surface lift gets you up the hill right next to a cozy lodge and free parking. Snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals are available at the Nordic Center. Downhill ski and snowboard rentals are not available at the Adventure Park, but there are many rental shops just minutes away in downtown Frisco. During the summer, the Frisco Adventure Park boasts great free amenities including miles of mountain biking/hiking/running trails, a bike park, a skate park, and a 27-hole disc golf course. Chuck wagon rides are also offered, and camping may be booked through the National Forest Service.See more..
4.5Mesa Verde National Park(342 reviews) - The culture of early Indian Population. Spent More than 3 hours National Parks
A natural wonder you need to experience. Seeing these cliff dwellings make you wonder how and why these people built these structures were they did. You cannot enter the majority of them but from a distance you can still see all the details that were included in the designs. You must stay within the national park as it it at least a 35 minute plus drive to get to the locationsSee more..
4.5Chatfield State Park(335 reviews) - Great Dog Park Monday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
This park has an outstanding dog park that is fully fenced and includes a couple of ponds where your pets can swim. Plenty of parking. There is a $3 charge but there is a $25 annual option as well. Plenty of parking. Combination of paved and natural trails.See more..
Enterprise delivered a car to our downtown hotel, and we were in the foothills in 40 minutes. In 1 1/4 hours, we were driving amid the big peaks. Visitor information centers suggested scenic loops that offered plenty of opportunities to get out of the car and walk a ways to see vistas of multiple peaks. Back in our hotel by 4 after a great day in the mountains.See more..
Lots of fun stuff to do here, in a very nice setting in Estes Park. My girlfriend and I came here on two occasions on our vacation. They have two miniature golf courses, which are well maintained and not real hard to play. We also rode the go carts one day. The carts are well maintained and fast enough to enjoy them. All the staff we interacted with were very friendly and helpful. The only negative I can think of is the pricing. They are very expensive for everything they offer here, probably double what you would find in a “non-vacation” area. But, given the beautiful location, views and variety of activities here, I would definitely recommend giving them a try. Especially if you’re looking to nurture that inner child in all of us!See more..
4.5The Paint Mines Interpretive Park(247 reviews) - Amazing, amazing - protect yourself from the sun!! Monday: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks
Hours: Dawn To Dark. NO PETS Admission is Free! Located in the northeast section of the County near Calhan with approximately 750 acres. The paint mines have evidence of human life as far back as 9,000 years ago. The colorful clays were used by Native Americans. The park features fantastic geological formations including spires and hoodoos that were formed through erosive action that created incised gullies and exposed layers of seienite clay and jasper. The park includes a restroom facility, four miles of trails, interpretive signage, and many natural wonders.See more..
4.5Riverside Park(247 reviews) - Best part of our CO vacation Parks
We debated joining the playful tubers, rafters, boogie-boarders who were splashing and laughing their way along Salida’s river. I am SO glad we decided to go for it!! It was the most fun, most exhilarating thing we did during vacay. We had far more fun on our own than whitewater rafting with an outfitter place. Stop at Totally Tubular rental place and get either a tube or board, $15 for a half day and it includes the personal floatation vest. We’ll be talking about this great day along the Arkansas river in downtown Salida for a long time. Great memories made!See more..
4.5Ridgway State Park(221 reviews) - Beautiful Park, very Quiet Monday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM State Parks
Park that has a little bit of everything, from camping and boating to hiking and fishing.See more..
Stunning riverfront park with a nice "bridge to bridge" walk/hike along the river. The hike isn't terribly difficult but does have a few minor steep parts, so it wouldn't be suitable for some folks. The river is gorgeous, the mountain backdrop is unbeatable, and it's dog friendly! Great people watching as folks raft down the river, surf the waterfalls, or just dip in the water. If you grab takeout from one of the restaurants in town, there are picnic tables to use. Parking is pretty easy, too. ISee more..
The hike we took was wonderful. Thankfully we had micro spikes. Through the canyon there were quite a few places that were icy or muddy. The views were awesome and it was not very crowded. I highly recommend stopping by the Visitor Center and checking out all the exhibits. See more..
This 42,000-acre Recreation Area features three reservoirs, Blue Mesa, Morrow Point and Crystal, which are surrounded by rugged, steep-walled canyons and mesas.See more..
4.5Bear Creek Lake Park(183 reviews) - A nice family swim lake Monday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM State Parks
Bear Creek Lake Park offers a swimming lake with shade as well as other outdoor activities. Beach with roped off swimming area, no lifeguard but park rangers are on site. Picnic areas, playground, and concessions for food are available. For the more active, canoes, kayaks and stand up boards are available for rent. Walking/ hiking trails throughout the park.See more..
4.0Trinidad Lake State Park(180 reviews) - Oh yay, another start park around a reservoir State Parks • Parks
Colorado seems to like building state parks around reservoirs. As such, they are usually less attractive than the nearby mountains. Trinidad Lake is good for waterfowl enthusiasts who arrive at the right time of year to catch the various species that stop here on their annual migrations.See more..
Lake Pueblo is a very beautiful location in southern Colorado. The lake was still and the scenery is gorgeous. The lake sits on the Arkansas River, where many people were fishing and picnicing What a great place to watch the day awaySee more..
4.5Carter Park(156 reviews) - Ice Sledding in the Park Parks
If you’re looking for a free place to go ice sledding while you’re staying in Breckinridge, Carter Park is where to go. We were told to purchase our own sleds, but when we got there, there were unclaimed sleds lying around and a little shed that had sleds in it for you to borrow then return. Save you some money, go check out the park first to see if there’s sleds, then go have all the fun you can on the snow!!!See more..
Small but might park full of post card views in every direction. The south boulder creek flows through the golden canyon walls leaving majestic views. The Fowler and Continental Divide trails are excellent!See more..
A year-round destination, this beautiful state park offers a multitude of recreational activities from cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing in the winter to camping, hiking, biking and boating in the summer. The natural setting is highlighted by the beautiful scenery of Sand Mountain and Hahn's Peak bordering this 1055 acre lake. At 8000 feet in elevation, Colorado mountain wildflowers and wildlife are abundant. Our trail system allows you and your family to see nature up close. The campgrounds of 188 campsites allows you to experience the beauty of the outdoors and still have the comfort of modern amenities and facilities.See more..
4.5Rock Park(139 reviews) - Great Views Monday: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM Parks • Geologic Formations
I call the Rock Castle Rock. Light hike to the top, great views of Castle Rock and the surrounding area. Im sure the Sunsets are pretty cool from up there. Some people had climbed to the top of the rock, which its posted that its not reccommended to due to loose rocks. I was distracted on my way back down, and took an opposite trail on the way down, so I totally did a circle of the rock. See more..
4.5Canyon View Park(138 reviews) - Clean, well maintained and fun park! Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks • Hiking Trails
Canyon View has a lot to offer the span from little ones to those in the golden years. We use the park for the playground, soccer games, and walks around the pond. We used the dog park for years until our dog could not follow direction and stole balls from fellow owners. The little park feels a bit large at times when parenting several kids. It's fine now that my kids are 3 and 5. However, when we go, my spouse and I end up taking 1 kid each and not seeing each other. I love that it's a clean environment. The facilities are well maintained. It's a great park in GV and I'm happy we have it as a resource.See more..
