Things to do & places to visit in Colorado, United States

Colorado is home to no less than twenty-six ski resorts such as those in Vail and Breckenridge; other winter activities include snowboarding, sledding, sleigh rides, snow hiking and snowmobiling. The state is blessed with national parks, grasslands and forests where in warmer weather you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or rock climbing. Wildlife abounds, from bears to moose and raccoons to wolverines. More interested in local history? Head for either the Ute Indian Museum or the Koshare Indian Museum, and don't miss the forts such as Fort Garland and Bent's Old Fort. For a complete change, why not take a ride in a hot air balloon from South Park Valley or Boulder and admire Colorado's picturesque landscape from above?

Colorado #10 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.62 based on 369.1k traveler reviews, of 2.903 attractions. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Friday, April 26, 2024, 0:49.

Top things to do (48)

Top destinations in Colorado 100

Denver
Aspen
Vail
Rocky Mountain National Park
Durango
Telluride
Steamboat Springs
Mesa Verde National Park
Breckenridge
Boulder
Crested Butte
Pueblo
Leadville
Estes Park
Silverton
Glenwood Springs
Ouray
Beaver Creek
Snowmass Village
Copper Mountain
Trinidad
La Junta
Cortez
Gunnison
Palisade
Idaho Springs
Carbondale
Burlington
Alamosa
Dillon
Cripple Creek
Crestone
Basalt
Mosca
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Sterling
San Luis
Fruita
Morrison
Montrose
Hudson
Hotchkiss
Highlands Ranch
Glendale
Evergreen
Englewood
Elizabeth
El Jebel
Edwards
Eagle
Creede
Chimney Rock
Canon City
Berthoud
Centennial
Aurora
Alma
Woodland Park
Wolcott
Walden
Towaoc
South Fork
Silverthorne
Romeo
Rollinsville
Rifle
Parker
Paonia
Pagosa Springs
New Castle
Nederland
Monte Vista
Moffat
Kim
Kersey
Keenesburg
Karval
Julesburg
Johnstown
Joes
Jefferson
Jaroso
Jamestown
Indian Hills
Iliff
Idledale
Idalia
Hygiene
Hugo
Howard
Hooper
Homelake
Holyoke
Holly
Hoehne
Hillside
Hillrose
Hesperus
Hereford
Henderson

See more 88 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Garden of the Gods (17.7k reviews)
- Best Ever "City Park"
Friday: 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. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Echo Canyon River Expeditions (4.845 reviews)
- Awesome Royal Gorge rafting with Echo Canyon
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing

Second time rafting with Echo Canyon. This time we did the Royal Gorge trip and it was amazing. I highly recommend it. Jacob was our guide and he was awesome. The pictures and video they take are priceless and worth the $120. Echo is about an hour from Colorado Springs and definitely worth the trip. See more..
5.0 American Adventure Expeditions (4.471 reviews)
- Fantastic Family Float
Friday: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

We did a Family Float today and it was fantastic. Allison was my boat’s guide and she was friendly, outgoing, and very knowledgeable about what she was doing. She gave great directions when needed. She also gave us great recommendations for things to do in the area. The information she gave us about the company - when we asked - makes me recommend them even more. The next time we are ready for a rafting tour, AAE will be the first one we look to. Thanks for an awesome trip! See more..
5.0 Royal Gorge Rafting and Zip Line Tours (4.073 reviews)
- Amazing experience!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing

We were on a family trip to Canon City last week and decided to do the Bighorn Sheep all ages rafting trip with Royal Gorge rafting. There were 16 of us from my 8 year old nephew all the way up to my amazing 81 year old father in law! Zachary & Joey were 2 of our guides and they were both amazing! I personally had Zach in my raft guiding us and I really appreciated how he made this anxious 40 something mom relax and enjoy something completely out of my comfort zone. It was an incredible experience and we can’t wait to come back again sometime to try the more advanced rafting trip! Definitely recommend Royal Gorge rafting to anyone who is in the area looking for an adventure! See more..
5.0 Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre (3.752 reviews)
- Red Rocks was awesome! The concert was amazing too.
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Theaters

Naturally formed, open air Amphitheatre consists of two, three-hundred-foot monoliths serving as a "stage" for musical performances. See more..
5.0 Trail Ridge Road (3.446 reviews)
- Great Rocky drive
Scenic Drives

Get in before 9 without a pass and use the gypsyguide for the best tour. It will take all day if you go to Grand Lake but you cannot renter without a timed pass. Lot’s of places to stop along the way great scenery. Bring warm clothes for the top. It’s windy and cold at Alpine. Also good to bring food for a picnic. Sheep meadow was good for seeing moose. Visitor centerS were not that helpful See more..
5.0 Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours (2.613 reviews)
- Zipline Guides Were AMAZING
Friday: 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..
5.0 Maroon Bells (2.609 reviews)
- WOW. Get a car pass early. You have more flexibility.
Mountains

We were on a 16 day trip comprising 13 states and this was one of the highlights. The whole trip revolved around being here on October 6 and 7 for the sunset and sunrise. Back in July we got an online vehicle pass, $10, for the sunset on the 6th and one for the sunrise on the 7th. We needed them to enter and to park, however, when we got there in the morning no one was in the entry booth at 6:15 am. We were very fortunate that we had excellent weather for both. Our principal goal was photography. We saw a very nice fox right where you enter the viewing area. See the image. We also two moose on the way out in the evening. Much to our surprise the water level was quite low but we enjoyed our images non the less. This scene reminded us of Moraine Lake in Banf National Park Canada. Both beautiful areas. See more..
5.0 Mount Evans (2.567 reviews)
- A few tips for a spectacular drive. Go early!
Mountains

From the top of Mount Evans, you’ll have the neighboring mountains and the Great Plains at your feet. To get there, drive from the town of Idaho Springs all the way to the mountaintop, pulling over occasionally to soak up the commanding views of the surroundings. The hike to the summit from the parking lot takes less than 10 minutes. Make sure you visit in the warmer months, as the road to Mount Evans is closed for the best part of the year. If you’re up for some intense trekking, hike the 5.3-mile trail from Summit Lake. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Hanging Lake Trail (2.206 reviews)
- Trail is back open and worth it.
Hiking Trails

Trail is back open. Beautiful trail. It's a hard trail but I as a 38 year old, out of shape, middle aged male not used to the altitude was able to accomplish it. Despite being passed on the trail by people 20-30 years older than me and young children it was worth the challenge. The trail is very rocky but jist about anyone can do it. Take lots of breaks, bring lots of water. I would recommend hiking earlier in the day as it's a bit cooler. It was well worth it. See more..
5.0 The EDGE Ziplines & Adventures (2.038 reviews)
- Crazy fun!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks

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..
5.0 Telluride Mountain Village Gondola (1.958 reviews)
- Telluride Gondola is a must ride!
Friday: 6:30 AM - 12:00 AM Trams • Public Transportation Systems

One of the most unique forms of public transportation connects Mountain Village to Telluride offering stunning 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains that extend as far away as Utah. The gondola, the first and only free public transportation of its kind in the United States opened in 1996 and was initially built to help improve air quality while expanding the ski area. It is entirely free to commuters and sightseers. Since then, it has become a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike, giving them a stunning ride that caps out at 10,540 feet above sea level. Approximately 3 million passenger rides annually – and safely – and more than 50 million passenger trips have been provided since opening day. The gondola operates roughly 287 days each year with routine maintenance scheduled during our shoulder season months. It takes about 12 minutes to get from the Town of Telluride to Mountain Village Village. It takes 3 minutes from Mountain Village Center to Market Plaza. See more..
5.0 Independence Pass (1.725 reviews)
- Beautiful!
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Scenic Drives

We were so glad we took this road to independence pass. They had had a snowfall a few days before we got there and the small lake was frozen and there was snow everywhere. Beautiful drive although in a rented RV sprinter van there were some tight curves but it was fun. See more..
5.0 National Museum of World War II Aviation (1.526 reviews)
- Hands down THE BEST aviation museum in the US
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums

The Museum's new 40,000 sq ft hangar is now open at 775 Aviation Way, Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM. Visitors can walk around the museum on their own and hosts are available to answer questions. Two hour docent led tours are offered at 10:30 AM , 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM, and include a visit to WestPac, a private WWII aircraft restoration company. See more..
5.0 Colorado Adventure Center (1.501 reviews)
- Wet and fun family rafting
Friday: 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..
5.0 Cliff Palace (1.475 reviews)
- 30 Min Tour to History
Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

An ancient cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park. See more..
4.5 Pikes Peak - America's Mountain (7.738 reviews)
- Beautiful views
Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Drives

Welcome to Pikes Peak - America's Mountain! The Pikes Peak Highway entrance is conveniently located 15 minutes west of Colorado Springs on Highway 24. The beauty of being so close to the city is that you can spend your time enjoying the mountain instead of getting to the mountains. Plan for your round trip journey to the summit to take 2-3 hours. The safe, scenic highway provides you the opportunity to enjoy Pikes Peak at your leisure. From the gateway at an elevation of 7,400 feet, you'll encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you wind your way through an alpine wonderland of scenic beauty, mountain reservoirs, beyond timberline, overtaking the clouds...All along the way to the 14,115 foot summit of America's most famous mountain. Along the way, you'll discover the North Slope Recreation Area, Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop, Historic Glen Cove Inn, and the Summit House. There are three lakes for fishing, picnic areas, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Stop and watch one of our "Meet the Ranger" Interpretive Programs and learn about the history, myths, flora and fauna on the mountain. All offer visitor services and basic necessities to make your day both enjoyable and memorable. See more..
4.5 Denver Botanic Gardens (5.738 reviews) from $15.00
- My favorite botanic gardens
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Art Galleries • Gardens

Spanning more than 24 acres, Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street presents a wide range of gardens and collections that illustrate an ever-widening diversity of plants from all corners of the world. Distinctive gardens define and celebrate our Western identity and a unique high altitude climate and geography. We are passionate about connecting people to plants through botanical beauty, education, art, events, conservation and sustainable living. See more..
4.5 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (4.864 reviews)
- Best zoo in the country
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos

Colorado Springs is home to America’s mountain Zoo. Advance tickets are required. Located at 6,714 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers breathtaking views of the city and of its 750 animals. The unique design of the Zoo’s animal exhibits gets guests closer than ever before. Hand-feed one of the largest reticulated giraffe herds in the world, watch grizzlies swim with trout, hop next to red-necked wallabies and get hands on with some of the Zoo’s smaller residents in The Loft. Have a WILD adventure at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – see the animals, ride an antique carousel, eat a gourmet lunch at the Grizzly Grill and ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride to the Zoo’s summit. Visit 365 days a year for family fun at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. The Zoo may close early for special events. Visit cmzoo.org for tickets, daily hours and planning information. See more..
4.5 Coors Field (4.846 reviews)
- Would recommend the group tour
Arenas & Stadiums

A modern stadium with an old-fashioned feel, this is one of the National League's first new parks built exclusively for baseball since 1962. See more..
4.5 Cave of the Winds Mountain Park (4.289 reviews)
- Worth the visit!!!
Friday: 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..
4.5 Denver Museum of Nature & Science (4.088 reviews)
- Great Museum with Many Facets
Natural History Museums • Science Museums • Observatories & Planetariums

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the Rocky Mountain region’s leading resource for informal science education. A variety of exhibitions, programs, and activities help Museum visitors experience the natural wonders of Colorado, Earth, and the universe. See more..
4.5 Denver Zoo (4.082 reviews)
- Worth A Trip (Or Two)
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos

Adventure Awaits! Every day, Denver Zoo seeks to inspire exploration and discovery, and creates connections with people, animals and nature. And every day, we’re working to save animals and conserve wildlife here and around the world. Your visit and support aids in all these efforts- Thank you. Home to 4,100 animals, representing more than 600 species, Denver Zoo is committed to species conservation by bringing science education to life and providing extraordinary experiences that foster human and animal connections. It is the most visited cultural destination in Colorado, serving 2 million people per year. Located in Denver’s City Park, the Zoo is a nonprofit organization accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which assures the highest standards of animal care. With the mission to secure a better world for animals through human understanding, Denver Zoo dedicates more than $2 million annually to zoo-led programs aimed at protecting animals within their natural habitats around the world. See more..
4.5 Denver Art Museum (3.461 reviews)
- Denver arts
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

Known for its wide range of Native American art, this museum also contains the only major Asian art collection in the Rocky Mountains. See more..
4.5 Denver Union Station (3.407 reviews)
- Great Experience
Friday: 6:30 AM - 11:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites

Denver Union Station is an urban transit hub and a high-energy, mixed-use destination featuring James Beard, award-winning chef-driven restaurants, locally curated retail shops, and the luxurious Crawford Hotel. Union Station is Denver's most iconic gathering place for locals and visitors alike. See more..
4.5 United States Air Force Academy (2.998 reviews)
- Great Visitor Center to Learn About Cadets
Military Bases & Facilities • Educational sites

Visitors can tour this modern sprawling campus that includes the Academy, Falcon Stadium, a chapel and Arnold Hall, a museum honoring Air Force personnel. See more..
4.5 Pearl Street Mall (2.795 reviews)
- Very enjoyable
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Shopping Malls

Situated in the heart of an energetic city is beautiful, historic Downtown Boulder. At the heart of Downtown Boulder is the Pearl Street Mall, a wonderfully charismatic four-block-long pedestrian mall that celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2007. Colorful, bright flowers fill the mall almost the entire year and street performers, with a multitude of talents, make the Pearl Street Mall one of the best people-watching destinations anywhere. See more..
4.5 Glenwood Hot Springs Pool (2.635 reviews)
- Nice Soak in the Hot Springs
Friday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Thermal Spas

Located between Aspen and Vail, you'll find the World's Largest Hot Springs Pool. The Ute Indians called it Yampah, meaning "big medicine." Soothe your muscles after outdoor activities year round. The large pool is kept at a comfortable 90°- 93° F and the smaller therapy pool averages about 104° F. Additional amenities include a lodge, spa, athletic club, grill and shopping. Relieve muscle and joint pain, or just relax and feel the wonder of a soak in our hot springs. Soaking in hot, highly concentrated mineral water has many health benefits. Increasing body temperature helps the body naturally kill harmful germs and viruses, eliminate toxins, and increase blood flow. The essential minerals gives the body a natural boost. You will feel the difference within minutes of stepping in. Jump in the large pool, at over 400 feet long, and "cool down." Swim laps or practice your form on the diving board. Bring your own cooler and snacks, or stop by the poolside Grill to grab a bite. See more..
4.5 Breckenridge Gondola (2.519 reviews)
- Top of the World
Taxis & Shuttles

The Breckenridge Gondola is the best way to ascend the mountain to access the peaks and ski slopes. Me and my friends are not skiers, so the gondola was free to us as "scenic riders" until 3:00 PM. We rode up and enjoyed watching the skiers and snowboarders from Robbie's. See more..
4.5 Strawberry Park Hot Springs (2.340 reviews)
- Winter wonderland
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM Hot Springs & Geysers

Get out of the cold and into these natural mineral springs with a year-round average temperature of 104 degrees. See more..