Colorado, in the heart of the American West, is a place where rugged natural beauty and cosmopolitan charm converge. It’s a land of vast open spaces, towering mountain peaks and an unmistakable sense of adventure. From skiing in the Rocky Mountains to exploring the bustling streets of downtown Denver, Colorado has a little bit of something for everyone.

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One of the main draws of Colorado is its stunning natural beauty. With four national and countless state parks, and over 50 peaks towering 14,000 feet or more, the Centennial State is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, snowboarding and mountain biking are just a few of the spectacular ways to enjoy this breathtaking landscape.

But Colorado isn’t just for the adventurous types. The state is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums and performing arts venues, showcasing the best of contemporary and classic works.

Foodies are not left wanting, either. From farm-to-table cuisine to craft breweries and wineries, a number of independent artisans are putting Colorado firmly on the culinary map. So if you’re looking for a taste of the good life, Colorado is a destination that should be on your radar. We explore some of the best the state has to offer.

Denver

The capital city of Colorado, Denver, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis that offers an infinitely diverse itinerary for any visitor. Predominantly, Denver is known for its fantastic outdoor activities as the city sees more than 300 days of sunshine per year.

Explore the city’s numerous parks (Confluence Park and City Park are local favorites), gardens and trails, or head to the nearby Rocky Mountains – a short drive away for a more rugged experience.

It’s also home to the pride of Denver, the Colorado Avalanche. They play their home games at the 20,000 seat Ball Arena Stadium at Speer Boulevard, and each fixture is an unforgettable event.

The Avalanche dethroned the two-time consecutive winners Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2021/22 season to become league champions. Checking the Stanley Cup odds for this season will show that they’re also strong contenders to repeat last year’s success.

Dine at The Greenwich, situated in the RiNo district, a fantastic eatery offering New American cuisine in unpretentious surroundings. Then head to Strange Craft with an always impressive tap list to sample some of the region’s best small batch ales and IPAs.

Telluride

Another unmissable stop on your Coloradan adventure is the picturesque former Victorian mining town of Telluride, nestled in a scenic box canyon surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. Telluride is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back mountain town experience.

Skiing and snowboarding is its obvious draw – with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, Telluride Ski Resort offers breathtaking views and diverse routes for all skill levels. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking and fly fishing through the surrounding picture-postcard mountains and streams.

The Telluride Film Festival, held annually in September, attracts top filmmakers and celebrities from around the world.

Great Sand Dunes

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in the southern part of the state is well worth your time. This unique natural wonder is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching up to 750 feet.

One of the most popular activities at the park is the unusual opportunity of sandboarding and sledding. Fun for all ages, sandboards and sleds can be rented for the day so you can enjoy carving through this remarkable landscape.

A diverse ecology of wildlife also calls the park home, including black bears, mountain lions and bighorn sheep. Birdwatchers also have the chance to spot uncommon species like the western tanager, pinyon jay and red-tailed hawk.

Before leaving make sure you navigate to the natural hot springs that can be enjoyed year-round. These warm and soothing pools are the perfect place to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

Durango

The historic town of Durango, in southwestern Colorado, exudes charm and vibrancy. Ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which takes passengers on a scenic journey through the mountain vistas. Half-day, full-day and overnight excursions are available.

The iconic Animas River Trail is a must for keen hikers. You can also enjoy fishing, kayaking and white-water rafting in the area.

There are a number of fine bars and eateries in town to satisfy even the most discerning palates. We recommend El Moro Spirits and Tavern on Main Avenue for brunch, lunch, dinner or cocktails. Durango is an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

From endless outdoor adventures to unforgettable experiences, whether you’re a skier, hiker or epicure, Colorado is a state like no other. There’s no shortage of excitement and natural beauty to discover so pack your bags and plan your visit today!