Fun Things to Do in Colorado
Whether you are looking for fun things to do in Colorado or are just visiting for a weekend, there is something for everyone. Check out the CU Museum of Natural History and Colorado’s Garden of the Gods. Or, check out the Carousel of Happiness. Whether you like to spend time with family or simply relax with a good book, Colorado is the state for you. After all, it is Colorado, and there’s a lot to do there.
Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is an area of spectacular beauty in the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado. It was first gifted to the city of Colorado Springs in 1909 by the family of Charles Elliott Perkins. Since then, the area has risen in popularity and is now considered a National Natural Landmark. The area is home to numerous wildlife species, including bears, mountain lions, deer, and raccoons. You can enjoy a number of outdoor activities in and around the Garden of the Gods, including hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
The Garden of the Gods’ rock formations are a perfect backdrop for photos. One of the most famous rock formations is the Balanced Rock, which is accessible by car and hiking trail. Another popular rock formation is the Kissing Camels, which was so named because of its appearance. It is visible from several trails within the park. The Trading Post, which was constructed in 1929, is another popular destination. Visitors can purchase souvenirs from its gift shop.
If you’d rather spend more time in the park, head to the Garden of the Gods Museum. It is an educational stop that offers exhibits and a gift shop where you can purchase Colorado-made items. Afterward, refuel at the “hip and healthy” Bean Sprouts Cafe. Aside from serving delicious and nutritious food, Bean Sprouts offers educational displays on the geology and ecology of the area.
Getting to Garden of the Gods is easy, as the area is near the US Olympic Museum and America the Beautiful Park. A good place to stay nearby is the Garden of the Gods Resort. This full-scale resort is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. It features five pools and a 18-hole golf course. The resort also offers a wide variety of in-house eateries. For budget-conscious travelers, the Marriott and Best Western are two excellent options.
Ouray Ice Park
A trip to Ouray Ice Park is the ultimate way to enjoy the beautiful winter wonderland. The park has been open every winter since 1993 and attracts ice climbers from around the world. The park is a nonprofit organization that depends on membership fees and donations for its continued operation. Membership options range from $40 to $150 per year and include discounts on lodging and special events at the ice park. Members also receive discounts on ouray Ice Festival tickets, which takes place on Jan. 23 – 26. While admission to the festival is free, you may be required to shell out money for the nightly events.
During our visit to Ouray, we had the opportunity to experience ice climbing firsthand. The ice park is located inside the city limits of Ouray. From Main Street, you can walk to the park in about five to 10 minutes. The park offers a variety of ice climbing lessons in the morning and afternoon. After the park closes, we had lunch and visited the local hot springs.
Climbers are awestruck when they first see the ice in the Uncompahgre Gorge. A water pipe leak in the early 1980s created 80-foot icicles that now grace the park. Climbers love to climb them, and the Ouray Ice Park has over a mile of artificial ice. The park boasts more than 200 routes. Getting there is free and easy, but it’s recommended that you visit the park early in the winter months, so you can maximize your time on the ice.
During the winter months, Ouray is buzzing with activity. From mid-December to mid-March, the park offers a wide variety of climbs. The park is only fifteen to thirty minutes walk from downtown. Climbing clinics are held throughout the season, and you can learn about the sport from instructors. Alternatively, you can take classes at the Paradox Sports Adaptive Climbing Centre.
CU Museum of Natural History
The CU Museum of Natural History, located on the campus of the University of Colorado Boulder, is a fun place to take the family. The museum showcases an array of prehistoric fossils and other artifacts. It also hosts talks by scientists and workshops for visitors of all ages. It’s free and family-friendly. While the museum isn’t the most exciting place to see dinosaurs, children will still enjoy the interactive exhibits.
The museum’s Bougainville Island Collection exhibit highlights the collection of the late Bud Johnson, who gathered items and information from the island after World War II. The Dry Valleys exhibit explores CU’s research on ancient animal bones and horse equipment. Visitors can engage in fun, educational programs throughout the year. There’s even a Biolounge for meeting, study, and class projects.
There’s also a Boulder Museum of Natural History, a museum devoted to the city’s past. The museum’s hands-on exhibits and lectures are great for both children and adults. Currently closed, the Boulder Museum of Natural History is slated to reopen in Fall 2021. While you’re visiting Boulder, take the time to check out the city’s vibrant art scene. Check out some of the murals, mostly along Pearl Street.
Boulder is home to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. While the museum is a popular destination for visitors to Boulder, it doesn’t have everything. Boulder is known for its green lifestyle, and the CU Museum of Natural History offers a unique way to learn about sustainable living. Visit an organic farm to learn about composting or meet the animals. It’s a fun and educational way to spend a day outdoors.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park spans the Continental Divide and consists of protected mountains, forests, and alpine tundra. The Park is popular for its pristine mountain vistas, hiking trails, and the Keyhole Route that passes over vertical rock faces. Bear Lake also offers stunning views of the peaks in the background. There are many activities to enjoy in Rocky Mountain National Park, but you’ll probably want to take a day to experience all of them.
For families with young children, Rocky Mountain National Park has a Junior Ranger program that allows children to learn about wildlife and the history of the area. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges for completing minimum activities. They can also get free booklets for participating in the program. The Junior Ranger headquarters is located in the Hidden Valley. You’ll also have the chance to see a variety of other animals in the park.
You can hike the 355 miles of trails within Rocky Mountain National Park. Hiking trails here range from flat lakeside strolls to challenging climbs to mountain peaks. Park rangers can give you advice on which trails are best for your fitness level. Even if you don’t like hiking, the park’s road system is great for getting a general feel for the park’s ecosystem. You’ll find everything from wetlands to subalpine forests.
If you’re planning a camping trip, Rocky Mountain National Park is a great place to camp. While it doesn’t have a dark sky, there are plenty of opportunities to view wildlife in the park. At 8,700 feet above sea level, you’ll have the chance to see bighorn sheep and marmots living in the high altitude tundra ecosystem. You’ll also see colorful wildflowers and hardy plants.
Denver Mint
While you’re in Colorado, you might want to stop by the Denver Mint, a branch of the United States Mint. This institution struck its first coins in 1906, and it’s still a working mint today. Visitors to Denver Mint can purchase coins in circulation, mint sets, and commemorative editions. All Denver Mint coins carry the D mint mark. Denver is home to the world’s largest mint.
The Mint has produced billions of coins over the years. This historical site was originally a place where coins were produced for the gold rush. It was only in 1906 that the Mint was expanded to include coin production. Today, it produces more coins than any other organization in the world. It also maintains the nation’s largest gold bar stash. The Mint offers tours, as well as exhibits and gift shops, which make for a fun and educational day out.
For something more hands-on, head to the Denver Money Museum. This museum features era-specific items and is located near the 16th Street Mall. A visit to the Denver Mint offers a unique view of the U.S. economic system. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the famous $100 bill. Make sure to bring your photo ID to prove that you are a U.S. citizen or passport-holder.
You might also want to visit the State Capitol, a place that is steeped in history. The State Capitol is the seat of state government, and you might be able to take a tour here as well. You may even get a chance to chat with the candy makers and sample some of their creations. The building is wheelchair and stroller-friendly and even accessible for people with disabilities. There are plenty of things to do in Denver, Colorado.
Best Sightseeing in Colorado
If you’re planning a trip to the western U.S., you may be wondering where to find the best sightseeing in Colorado. The state is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, including Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park, which protects cliff dwellings that were inhabited by Ancestral Puebloans. Denver is the state’s capital and largest city. Here are some tips to help you plan your sightseeing in Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park
When planning your sightseeing in Colorado, you can’t go wrong with the Rocky Mountain National Park. Located along the Continental Divide, this protected park is home to mountains, forests, alpine tundra, and more. The park is home to several trails, including the Old Fall River Road and the Keyhole Route, which crisscrosses vertical rock faces and leads to Longs Peak. There are also a few scenic lakes to enjoy, including Bear Lake, which offers magnificent views of the peaks and glaciers.
The park is home to the highest continuous paved road in the United States, Trail Ridge Road. This 46-mile stretch of road is accessible only from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Along the way, you can stop at Forest Canyon Overlook to see some spectacular views. You can also take a rest at the Alpine Visitor Center, which marks the halfway point. While you’re there, don’t forget to bring a camera!
Hiking is another popular activity in Rocky Mountain National Park. Several hiking trails are popular and can take a full day. Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is also possible by car. To access the park, take the Old Fall River Road or Trail Ridge Road for a scenic drive. You’ll also find visitor centers throughout the park. You can take a day tour or a half-day tour depending on your budget.
Pepsi Center
The Pepsi Center is one of Denver’s best sights. It is home to the Denver Nuggets NBA team, Colorado Avalanche hockey team, and the Colorado Mammoth lacrosse team. You can even watch a concert here. Past performers have included Bruce Springsteen, Post Malone, and Bon Jovi. The Pepsi Center is not only a great venue for sporting events, but it also serves as a fun place to watch concerts and a concert.
There are many things to do in Denver. You can attend professional sports events or chartered artists’ performances at the Pepsi Center. The Rocky Mountains are nearby, making for a fun day out. Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is another great place to take in history. The fort was a trading post along the Santa Fe Trail. The fort served as a place to trade important items and furs. It is considered one of the best tourist destinations in Colorado.
Other attractions in Denver include the Arapahoe County Fair. The fair features rodeos, carnival rides, and 4-H exhibitions. There are also several museums to explore, including the Water World and Elitch Gardens, which has Island Kingdom Water Park. Both of these attractions are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Attractions in Colorado are abundant, so you can’t go wrong by planning your visit accordingly.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
The open-air amphitheatre in Red Rocks Park combines the natural beauty of the state with the thrill of live entertainment. Located near Morrison, Colorado, the park is about ten miles west of Denver. Visitors are encouraged to take photographs and take in the sights before catching a show. Here, you can witness concerts performed by top-notch musicians, or enjoy a picnic lunch with some live music.
Tours are led by staff throughout the day, from morning to evening, as well as during the off-season. Some tours include backstage access. The Colorado Music Hall of Fame inducted its inaugural class in 2011, with inductees including Judy Collins, John Denver, Dan Fogelberg, and Firefall. You can take a guided tour at the Red Rocks Park Visitor Center.
If you want to experience the true beauty of the Red Rocks, you should take the time to see the amphitheater. The concert hall is surrounded by red rocks, which make the atmosphere even more impressive. The amphitheatre has hosted famous acts, including the Beatles, Tom Petty, and John Denver. The acoustics are outstanding, and the show is fun and enjoyable. Take your camera along to take pictures and check out the museum dedicated to past performers.
The best way to see the spectacular red rocks in Colorado is to attend one of the numerous concerts. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers over nine thousand seats. Whether you’re looking for a musical experience, or simply want to enjoy the landscape, this place is a must-see. The scenery and the acoustics are second to none. The park is a beautiful location for concerts, and is an excellent location for outdoor concerts.
Sculptured House
The Sculptured House, a unique home design, is one of the most popular points of interest in Colorado. While its interior isn’t particularly spectacular, the exterior is certainly impressive. You can take a short drive to the Sculptured House to get a glimpse of how a sci-fi writer would have decorated it. After you visit the Sculptured House, you’ll wonder how the owner ever lived there without being a bit psychedelic.
The Sculptured House is an architectural marvel that showcases a forward-thinking approach to architecture. You can learn more about Colorado history at the nearby History Colorado Center. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s open to the public, and it offers a great tour. After your visit, take some time to enjoy a snack and browse the gift shop.
Ouray
Weay, Colorado is a home rule municipality in Ouray County. The city has a population of about 1,000 as of the 2010 census. Its post office has the ZIP code 81427. Ouray is known as the Switzerland of America, and its surrounding mountains and valleys are among the best scenic spots in the state. If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Denver, then make sure to check out Ouray, Colorado.
Visitors to Ouray, Colorado, should not miss the town’s hot springs. These geothermally heated springs are filled with a wide variety of minerals and provide the perfect setting for family-friendly fun. Some of them even have obstacle courses and climbing walls for the kids. You can even rent a 4WD or high-clearance SUV to tour the area. In addition to hot springs, the town also has hot springs and outdoor activities.
For a more challenging hiking experience, you can choose a more challenging hike. You can choose from Box Canyon Falls Park, which is close to town, or the Cascade Falls Park, which is about a half-mile hike. The waterfall is high and visible from most locations in Ouray, and you can see it from anywhere along the Perimeter Trail. If you’re into nature, be sure to take in the scenery and wildlife.
Snowmass
If you are looking for a vacation destination that is both fun and scenic, consider Snowmass. This town, located near Aspen, is a wonderful place to visit for sightseeing and family fun. Guests can find an abundance of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife options. It is also home to the annual Snowmass Balloon Festival. Whatever your vacation preferences, you’re sure to find a place to stay in Snowmass.
When you’re ready for some serious skiing or sightseeing, consider staying at Snowmass. With spectacular views of the Continental Divide and many historic ghost towns, Snowmass is an excellent home base for exploration. It’s also just ten miles from Aspen, making it a convenient location for exploring the entire Roaring Fork Valley. If you’re not looking for the slopes, try a guided mountain bike tour, or a high-alpine hike. There are plenty of scenic views and activities to enjoy in Snowmass, and you can make an enjoyable day of it with a few hours of sightseeing.
For those looking for a view of the Ice Age, Snowmass offers many options. The town’s famous ski lift Sam’s Knob is the perfect place to start. From here, you can see the massive Ziegler Reservoir, an almost circular lake filled with thousands of fossilized Ice Age animals, including mastodons and ancient camels. These fossils were discovered by accident by a bulldozer operator in 2010 and are now part of the Snowmass visitor center.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Colorado
There are many things to do in Colorado and a variety of sightseeing attractions. In this article, I will give you a quick run-down of some of the top attractions, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Steamboat Springs, and Grand Junction. If you’re unsure of where to start, we suggest you plan a trip to one of these places. Here’s what to expect from your stay. Read on to plan your Colorado vacation!
Rocky Mountain National Park
In northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a protected high country playground, stretching across more than 400 square miles of breathtaking beauty. From waterfalls and alpine lakes to abundant wildlife, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re looking for an adventure in the Rocky Mountains, the park offers camping in the backcountry and hiking trails. Depending on your level of fitness, you can take part in a variety of activities.
The most popular activities in the park include hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. There’s also a two-mile snowmobile trail connecting Grand Lake to Arapaho National Forest. It’s also a good place to enjoy a little quiet time, especially off-season. Pets are permitted on leashes in the paved areas and campgrounds. You’ll need to bring leash-addicted dogs, though.
If you’re into hiking, consider the Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes hike, which starts at the Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail follows Tyndall Creek before reaching Emerald Lake at the 1.6-mile mark. This trail is popular for its steep walls and pristine blue water, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. If you’re not in the mood for strenuous hiking, consider taking a leisurely stroll along the Emerald Lake Trail.
While you’re here, consider staying in Estes Park. This quaint mountain town is the perfect base from which to explore the Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many accommodations here, ranging from cheap motels to upscale resorts. You can also go horseback riding, climb mountains, and enjoy some rafting in the town center. And if you’re looking for an activity, there’s no shortage of things to do in Estes Park.
Aspen
Aspen, Colorado, located in the Rocky Mountains, is a year-round outdoor recreation destination with a rich history. While skiing is the primary activity here, this city is also known for its high-end shopping and restaurants. Its historic sites include the Wheeler Opera House, built during a silver mining boom in the 1880s. Local history buffs can also visit the Wheeler-Stallard House, a 19th century Queen Anne-style home, or the Aspen Art Museum, which features contemporary art.
The climate in Aspen, Colorado is a humid continental climate with large diurnal variations. Temperatures in Aspen are mildly warm in summer and cold in winter. During summer, the temperature is moderate, with highs of about 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures are typically below freezing. While the weather in Aspen can be cold, temperatures in Aspen are generally comfortable. If you are unsure about the weather in Aspen, make a list of pros and cons before you make the final decision.
The town of Aspen is home to the Wheeler Opera House, which hosts several events throughout the year. It hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, lectures, and festivals. Check the events calendar online or call the theater directly to reserve tickets. Aspen has several fine dining and shopping options, so you will never be bored while in town. If you’re looking for some entertainment, the Wheeler Opera House and Snowmass Resort are great options.
Steamboat Springs
If you love winter sports and soaking in geothermal hot springs, Steamboat Springs is the place for you. Located in the Yampa Valley, this city is home to the Howelsen Hill ski area. The Ski Steamboat resort features six peaks, including Mount Werner. This area also has geothermal hot springs, which are said to have therapeutic benefits. Old Town Hot Springs has water slides, swimming pools, and soaking pools.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Steamboat Springs, visit the Tread of Pioneers Museum. Located on Oak Street, the Tread of Pioneers Museum is dedicated to preserving the town’s past. The museum is housed in a Queen Anne style Victorian house built in 1908. The exhibits explore local history, town development, and agriculture. It’s also home to the town’s first telephone.
Although there are no steamboats in Steamboat Springs, the city’s name comes from the early 1800s when French trappers found the region fascinating. Their curiosity about the engine-like noises that they heard led them to name the area Steamboat Springs. Today, the city welcomes travelers of all types. Families, nature lovers, and ski enthusiasts. Its beautiful scenery includes the iconic Mt. Warner and towering trees, as well as a variety of shopping and dining options.
Grand Junction
Grand Junction, Colorado, located in the western slope region of the state, is known as the hub of wine country in the state. There are several attractions in and around the town, including James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, with access to the river, biking trails, and lakes. Nearby is the Museum of the West, with collections ranging from prehistoric pottery to 19th century firearms. Further west is Colorado National Monument, with its red sandstone monoliths.
Before the town developed, the Ute Indians thrived on hunting and farming. After annexation, they negotiated a treaty with the Americans, which ended in a battle in 1879. After that, American settlement started in Southwest Colorado, and Grand Junction was incorporated as the seat of Mesa County in 1882. A number of notable businesses and institutions have sprung up in Grand Junction, including the Colorado River Museum and Western Colorado Center for the Arts.
The scenic landscape of the Grand Mesa, the city’s main attraction, makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to go for a mountain bike ride, or experience the thrilling thrill of whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, there is an adventure to suit everyone. If you’re a golfer, Grand Junction has a few beautiful courses. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat or a long vacation, there’s plenty to do in Grand Junction.
Ouray
Ouray, Colorado, is a town located in Ouray County, Colorado. As of the 2010 census, the town had a population of around 1,000. The town has a post office with a ZIP code of 81427. It is nicknamed the Switzerland of America. Residents enjoy skiing and hiking in the area, and the town is located on the banks of a pristine mountain stream. You can find several different types of lodging in Ouray.
If you want to get out and explore the local scenery, You can do so at any time of the year, but the best time to visit is during the summer, when the town is busy with visitors. Hiking and climbing are the most popular activities, but water sports are also popular in the area. Snow sports are popular in the winter, but the town’s hot springs are also a popular activity, so you can enjoy them no matter what time of year you visit.
Another popular trail in Ouray is the Ouray Loop Trail, which circles the town. You can begin the trail at various points throughout the town, but most people choose to start from the Ouray Visitors Center. You can park your car in a parking lot behind the center. Locals recommend hiking the loop in a clockwise direction, as the trail begins with a steep ascent. At the end of the loop, you will be rewarded with scenic views of the town.
Boulder
If you’re looking for a city break, then Boulder, Colorado is a great place to start. Located in northern Colorado, Boulder is at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, and its trail-lined rock formations, known as Flatirons, are a popular tourist destination. A stroll through the Pearl Street Mall will give you a taste of the city’s culture and charm. You’ll find art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants on this popular shopping street. You’ll also find a fiske planetarium and University of Colorado Boulder Museum of Natural History.
In addition to the Pearl Street Mall and the Boulder Art Museum, there are many other unique things to do in Boulder. Whether you’re interested in fine art, a particular type of food, or a specific genre, you’ll be able to find something to interest you. Boulder is also home to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which works on weather forecasts. The museum has three galleries and a 100-seat black box theater. You can check out the museum’s extensive collections of irises and pick up some delicious produce.
The median age in Boulder is 28 years, which is significantly younger than the U.S. average, and one-third of the population is between the ages of 18-24. It’s no surprise that Boulder has a high number of university students – the city’s population is approximately one-third younger than the U.S. median. Those living in Boulder have a median household income of $57,000, while those earning $72,000 or more are considered to be middle class. The median home price in Boulder is typically higher than the surrounding area.
