Colorado
Colorado is undoubtedly our most popular destination thanks to its countless enjoyable, one-of-a-kind experiences that are sure to put a smile on your face and help you reconnect with the world's natural wonders. ** Plus, it is where lots of our close friends live, so we are always over-visiting! :)
No matter your ultimate destination, Colorado has a never-ending list of things to check out. Many travelers start in Denver since it offers the most flight options, but be warned - **it's a royal pain** to organize transportation out of the Denver airport due to the distance from the city (around 20 miles). Additionally, there is *usually* just as much traffic as there is the hustle and bustle. As a result, the best bet to ensure an efficient journey is to plan your commute early and/or take the light rail - it's economical and reliable. It could be slower than driving or taking an Uber, but this allows you to not worry about surcharges, parking, and traffic. In my book, that's a win-win!
Over the last couple visits I have discovered these attractions from either friends or I have turned to my trusty travel companion, Viator! With its invaluable assistance, I found affordable attractions that seamlessly complemented our itinerary.
**This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy & disclosure page for more information.**
Meow Wolf:
If you couldn't already tell, art is my thing- particularly abstract and extraterrestrial pieces. NO place gives this feeling quite like Meow Wolf, located in downtown Denver! It was stunning- with wacky, net-level designs that were beyond worth the $45 ticket. Plus, you could adventure around the museum for HOURS!
Union Station:
The architecture of Denver Union Station is certainly a sight to behold, with its tall, distinguished ceiling and historical environment. It dates back to 1881 and, at the time, was the largest building in the West. It's a great place to explore the past of the Mile High City, and there are plenty of places to recharge in the many surrounding shops, eateries, and cafes. We chose to dine at Ulreia, a Spanish restaurant known for its darkly chic vibe and massive liquor wall.
Red Rocks Amphitheater:
When Adam and I ventured to Red Rock Amphitheater, we felt a sense of nostalgia we didn't know we needed. We felt so fortunate to witness the astounding sights and sounds of one of our favorite bands, Whiskey Myers. What a spectacular evening!! Picture it: huge red rocks towering over the massive arena that can house almost 10,000 people, the skyline of Denver in the background, your favorite drink in hand for a night of sweet melodies of enriched country/fold music. Agh, perfection! While the sun was setting, Whiskey Myers sang their famous piece "Stone," creating a truly romantic affair for my fiance and me. That's an experience you want to take advantage of!
RiNo Bike Brewery:
A beautiful day in Denver always makes me feel like having a great time, and the thought of a cold beer usually comes to my mind. That is why one of my greatest day-drinking experiences is the RiNo Bike Bar Crawl! You can book tickets online for your group or join a private tour and also check out information on what to expect. Our research suggested that a lot of people begin their bike roadmap at the 10 Barrel Brewing Company boasting a 20-barrel brewing system with 24 beers on tap! Next up, we took off for 14er Brewing & Beer Garden, one of Denver's largest outdoor and indoor hotspots, before making our way over to Bierstadt Lagerhaus. If you haven't already bellied up, Blackshirt Brewing Co is a great spot to check out - they have amazing independent craft beers, plus frequent live music events to enjoy!
Other mentionable spots are Blue Moon Brewing Company, Cohesion Brewing Company, Great Divide Brewing Co., Left Hand RiNo, and Ratio Beerworks. Make sure you have a good time, but stay safe too!
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Tap the link to discover the full blog post dedicated to this attraction! This remarkable national park boasts the largest sand dune on the continent, offering an awe-inspiring landscape like no other. At the heart of this stunning park lies the star of the show: the Great Sand Dunes. Stretching across an area of over 30 square miles, these towering dunes are a captivating sight to behold. Formed over thousands of years through a remarkable interplay of natural forces, the dunes are a testament to the dynamic nature of our planet.
The journey of the sand grains begins in the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges. As rivers and streams carry sediment downstream, they eventually reach the expansive San Luis Valley. Here, the unique combination of wind patterns and the presence of a natural barrier formed by the Sangre de Cristo mountain range causes the sands to accumulate in this specific location. Over time, the winds push the sand grains up the east side of the valley, forming the majestic dunes that rise as high as 750 feet – a height that can leave any traveler in awe. The unique geology of the region makes the Great Sand Dunes an exceptional sight, a mesmerizing blend of the sandy Sahara and the snowy mountain peaks that loom in the background.
Beyond their sheer size and beauty, these dunes are an ecological marvel. The diverse habitats surrounding the dunes, from grasslands to wetlands, provide a haven for a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are specially adapted to survive in this arid environment. Great Sand Dune National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, and its delicate ecosystems deserve our admiration and protection. For millennia, indigenous peoples have recognized the spiritual significance of this place, leaving their footprints on the sands and stories in the winds. The Great Sand Dunes hold a deep cultural heritage, making it not only a geological wonder but also a place of cultural richness.
Baseball Game at Coors Field
Venturing from the Land of 10,000 Lakes to the Mile High City, our recent trip to Coors Field for a Twins vs. Rockies game turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Not only did we witness an exciting match between the teams, but we also discovered fascinating facts about the stadium and its unique contributions to the world of beer. Here's a rundown of our adventure in the heart of Denver. Nestled in the heart of downtown Denver, Coors Field stands as a beacon for baseball enthusiasts. Opened in 1995, this iconic stadium is not just a venue; it's a testament to the city's love for the game. Fun fact: Did you know that Coors Field is renowned for its high altitude, making it a hitter's paradise? The thin air contributes to an increased carry on hit balls, creating an exciting environment for both players and fans.
As we settled into our seats, a refreshing Blue Moon in hand, little did we know that we were sipping on a beverage with roots right in the stadium. Coors Field is the birthplace of the popular Blue Moon Belgian White beer. The craft beer revolution was in full swing, and the stadium became the perfect breeding ground for this iconic brew. Our adventure at Coors Field transcended the score on the scoreboard. It was about the history, the culture, and the shared joy of America's favorite pastime. Whether you're a die-hard Rockies fan or just a baseball enthusiast passing through, a visit to Coors Field promises an experience that goes beyond the boundaries of the diamond.
Hiking Near Denver:
Roxborough State Park
Lookout Moutain
Chautauqua Park
Sts Glacier
Mt. Falcon
Three Sisters Park
As you can see, if your looking for things to do in the Denver area, you certainly won't be bored! Of course, if you want to explore other parts of Colorado, you've got plenty of possibilities. Keep reading if that sounds like something you are interested in.
Golden:
Golden can be found only 16 miles away from Denver, along with Red Rocks Amphitheatre being a quick 8 miles off. Heading over to Rocky Mountain National Park is not too far either, with it just an hour and a half drive away. Everywhere you look, you'll find stunning sights, with a selection of restaurants and shops lining the main street, culminating in the emblematic arch. Walking the route was an absolute joy, thanks to the breathtaking scenery.
Frisco
This town is nestled close by Breckenridge and is best known for its incredible Ice Castles and Dillon Lake. Boasting 25 miles of shoreline, it's a great spot to take in all the natural beauty the area offers. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to get an even closer look at the breathtaking views. Let's get out there and explore!
Breckenridge
It is known for many things, but mostly its beautiful surrounding ski resorts such as Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper, Vail, and Beaver Creek. Pictured is Brenkenridge Ski Resort! Know Before You Go: If you are visiting any of these ski resorts and are traveling from Denver, leave very VERY EARLY. Traffic is absolute insantiy!
In the city of Breckenridge, check out:
Main Street: is not just a great place to shop and dine, but it's also a bustling hub full of exciting events, festivals, music, and plenty of activities for everyone! Don't worry about getting around - you can park the car or take the shuttle and then stroll at your leisure. Plus, you get to take in the beautiful mountain views!
Restaurants to check out: Crepes A La Carte, Piante Pizzeria, Breckenridge Distillery, Blue River Bistro, Ollie's Pub & Grub, Rootstalk, Cabin Juice, Gaden of Vegan, Aurum, Carboy Winery Breckenridge
Hikes Close By:
Isak the Troll
Wheeler Lakes, Copper Mountain
Burro Trail
South Willow Falls, Silverthorne
Blue River Recreational Path
Boulder
Only 40 minutes outside of bustling Denver (if you miss the traffic!) lies a wild world of magnificent foothills and grand rock formations. Boulder has a wealth of awesome natural places to explore. It's no surprise why Boulder trailheads are always so popular – you can find some of the world's greatest hiking trails just a short drive away! From mountain peaks to wild forests, there's beauty to be discovered on the best hikes near Boulder.
These are to name a few hiking trails:
If you're looking for an enjoyable and easy jaunt near Boulder, Chautauqua Trail is worth checking out! You'll be blessed with spectacular views of the Boulder Flatirons during your 1.2-mile quest. And if you're up for it, why not explore the other close-by trails such as Baseline Trail, Ski Jump Trail, and Bluebell Mesa Trails?
Check out the Fowler Trail in Eldorado Canyon State Park for a great, accessible hike! The first half mile has been designed with wheelchair users in mind and is a pleasant and spacious route, while the branching climbers' trails offer a bit of a challenge.
Eldorado Canyon Trail is a truly unique spot in Colorado, renowned for its awesome rock climbing opportunities. Its sensational red cliffs dotted with lime-green lichen create a beautiful backdrop of the mountains. On a perfect day, you can even see the Continental Divide from afar!
Take on the challenge of hiking up the famous route between the First and Second Flatirons near Boulder! If you feel like testing yourself, the Second Flatiron can be scaled without rope or protection - but please only try it if you are experienced! When you reach the top, take the trail back down to the ground.
Boulder Falls Trail is a great pick for a fun family outing. Try to visit during the week to avoid crowds, and there's a lot to do when you get there! Explore some history with the pictures near the beginning of the trail.
Colorado Springs
This Colorado city, situated just south of Denver, certainly packs a when it comes to unique attractions and activities. From the classic favorites like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak to lesser-known gems like Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, you'll never find yourself short of things to do in this charming town!
Downtown Colorado Springs: In Colorado Springs, the energy has been gaining speed for quite a while. The city's entrepreneurial fervor is unmistakable: in 2021 alone, the downtown district welcomed a considerable number of 38 new street-level stores, ushering in young business owners armed with a range of novel ideas and concepts bound to be warmly accepted. Whether you prefer getting up with the sun or stayin' up late, if you're into catching a live show or exploring the local boutiques and galleries, the Springs has something special waiting for you!
Restaurant Recommendations:
Breakfast: Urban Egg or Rudy's Little Hideaway restaurant
Lunch: Black Bear Diner or the Airplane Restaurant
Dinner:Colorado Mountain Brewery
Pikes Peak
Belovedly termed America's Mountain, it is the pinnacle of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. It's mind-blowing to ponder that in 1893 it was the location that inspired the poem “America the Beautiful” by Katharine Lee Bates! It's only a hop, skip, and jump (12 miles) away from Colorado Springs and can be easily reached by car. In fact, during the nicer months, you can go all the way to the summit of 14,112 feet!! Know Before You Go: It is essential to understand the possible risks associated with visiting high-altitude places if you suffer from hypertension or some type of heart disorder. I kindly encourage you to be mindful and cautious when planning a trip to Pikes Peak.
Broadmoor Seven Falls: Going to Colorado and not hiking would be all wrong, wouldn't it? If you're visiting Colorado Springs, the Broadmoor Seven Falls Trail is an exceptionally captivating option. It's a series of steps leading you past seven incredible waterfalls. Just be aware that you should be prepared to climb a total of 224 steps! It's definitely worth it, though - adults can enter for $16 and kids under twelve for $10 (kids under two get in free). Warning: the falls are off-limits during the winter.
Garden of the Gods
One of the most popular spots to explore, Garden of the Gods is a protected open space covering more than 1,300 acres of sandstone. You can't miss the sizable rock structures! This park is ideal for walking, trekking, biking, and scaling, or you can choose a jeep or Segway adventure. With impressive rock formations exploding from the ground, Garden of the Gods is an incredible destination. Know Before You Go: It is free to enter, popular trails throughout the park include: Perkins Central Garden Trail, the Ridge Loop Trail, and the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail.
As you have observed, Colorado has won our hearts and filled us with immense appreciate for mother nature. We guarantee you will feel the same way!
Be sure to sign up for my newsletter below so you can stay current on what we uncover next, because Colorado is so incredible that there’s still much more to explore! Also when you go to Colorado, don’t forget to share your discoveries with me on my Instagram page @heatherslucentdream and let me know what your favorites are!
**This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy & disclosure page for more information.**
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
