When you think of Colorado, you immediately think of the magnificent Rocky Mountains, arid deserts and colorful canyons... Welcome to this mountainous state in the American West, the gateway to the Wild West. From Denver, its dynamic metropolis, to the hiking trails of Rocky Mountain National Park, via the snowy slopes of Aspen, an immense variety of landscapes awaits you. If you're a fan of dreamy landscapes, the sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes await you: a hypnotic spectacle with the surrounding mountains seeming to dance under the changing hues of the sun...So, what to do, what to visit in Colorado? Follow us on a tour of 21 must-sees!
1. Great Sand Dunes National Park, a magical landscape
Sandwiched between a desert valley and the rugged terrain of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park offer an unlikely yet magical setting. The road to reach the park is an adventure in itself, crossing desert landscapes before embarking on an infinitely straight road. Suddenly, the magnificent golden dunes appear, contrasting with the green of the mountains in the background. If your time is limited, spend a few hours exploring the dunes and climb one of them to watch the sun set or rise. Depending on the season, plan a swim in the stream at the foot of the dunes. With more time on your hands, take a hike to discover the park's incredible diversity and enjoy unique panoramas.
Good to know: Before setting off on your adventure, we recommend that you stop off at the Visitor Center for practical information on hiking and the various access routes to Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Read more: What to do and see in the USA The 20 must-sees
2. Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park stretches across part of the Colorado mountain range, home to a multitude of ecosystems ranging from hydrophilic vegetation to high mountains. Covering an impressive 1,075 km2, this park is particularly verdant compared to other parts of Colorado. Its wild, majestic setting is ideal for hiking. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, including brown bears, bighorn sheep and mule deer. Longs Peak, culminating at 4,346 meters, is a classic destination for mountaineers. The mountain lakes Bear Lake and Dream Lake are particularly prized for their beauty.
To book: Go here to book your Rocky Mountain National Park day trip from Denver.
Read more: Top 15 most beautiful national parks to visit in the USA
3. Denver, a must for any stay in Colorado
Nicknamed the "High Mile City" because of its 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) altitude, Denver is a pleasant capital city where life is easy, with the mountains as a backdrop. At this altitude, the air is purer, the sun warmer, and everything seems more intense. Add to this a privileged climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Colorado's main metropolis and the only major city for hundreds of miles, Denver is a must for any stay in the region. Whether you're hiking, running or cycling, the parks downtown and the many natural sites on the city's outskirts offer a dynamic and sporty setting. Be sure to stop by the Denver Art Museum or stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Book now: Discover Denver with a guide by booking this bus tour of the city. See Larimer Square, the Denver Art Museum, Big Blue Bear and the Mile High Steps.
Did you know? Denver is one of our top 10 most beautiful sunset spots in the world. Its airport is also one of the 10 most beautiful in the world.
4. What to visit in Colorado Stanley Hotel, in the footsteps of The Shining
In the heart of Colorado, in Estes Park, lies the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King to write his horror novel "Shining, the Boy in the Light". During a night spent in this hotel, the writer had a terrifying nightmare of his son being chased by a fire hose. This frightening dream was the inspiration for his famous novel, which went on to inspire Stanley Kubrick's film. Even today, it's possible to stay at this hotel, reputed to be one of the most haunted in America.
Read more: Top 25 most haunted places in the world
5. Mesa Verde National Park and its ancient troglodyte villages
The true essence of Colorado lies in its natural treasures. Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique window on Pueblo civilization. See the ruins of ancient troglodyte villages nestled in the cliffs and follow in the footsteps of the mysterious Anasazi Indians. With its cliffs and ancestral dwellings, the park pays homage to the past and allows you to discover the ancient civilizations that once inhabited these lands. Located on the Colorado border, Mesa Verde is easily accessible to travellers from Monument Valley, Arizona. It's a fascinating site both archaeologically and naturally, which you can visit by booking this half-day tour of Mesa Verde National Park.
Read more: What official documents do I need to enter the United States? and United States: Everything you need to know to plan your trip
Petit Futé tip: Take advantage of a discount by booking your your travel insurance and leave with peace of mind! Don't forget to apply for your visa right here to prepare for your trip.
6. Aspen, a coveted mountain town
What to visit in Colorado? A ski resort with a reputation for glamour and ultra-chic, Aspen needs no introduction. The idea here is to take advantage of the city's natural setting and its many cultural facilities to nourish both body and mind. Exercise by day and culture by night. The concept worked, and Aspen soon hosted prestigious cultural programs, making a name for itself on the international scene. Today, Aspen boasts over a hundred bars and restaurants, nearly 200 boutiques and numerous art galleries. The city center, lined with historic buildings, is elegant and charming. Here you can enjoy sporting activities such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding, biking, fly-fishing, climbing and, of course, skiing.
If you visit Aspen in mid-season, don't miss the incredible evenings when the resorts close. In autumn, the aspens (the deciduous trees that give the town its name) take on a unique golden hue. But whatever the season, the must-dos in Aspenare sports activities during the day and downtown outings in the evening . For example, book this evening guided tour of the city's Dark History.
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7. What to visit in Colorado Crested Butte
It's hard not to succumb to the charm of this adorable mountain town. It's a nonchalant yet lively little cocoon, organized around shopping-friendly Elk Avenue, which is listed on the National Historic Register. This street is home to restaurants, cozy boutiques and colorful historic buildings. The narrow streets are criss-crossed by a peaceful stream, all surrounded by more or less nearby mountain peaks. In autumn, the town takes on a magnificent golden hue, and in winter, the thick blanket of snow gives it an air of the Great North.
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8. Telluride, an extraordinary mountain setting
Nestled at the bottom of an imposing canyon and surrounded by majestic rocky peaks, this former mining town at the end of the world offers an extraordinary mountain setting. Telluride is also a sought-after winter sports destination, and is distinguished by its elegance, richly deserving of the title of most refined ski resort. While its chic side is undeniable, it's above all the fusion between powerful, rugged nature and a picturesque historic center, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene, that makes it so charming.
What you need to know if you'd like to opt for a personalized travel itinerary in the USA, we recommend you request your free quote right here. A tailor-made, responsible trip, direct with the best local agencies, awaits you!
9. Boulder, a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking panoramas
What to visit in Colorado A stopover in Boulder is a must. Its small downtown area is second to none in the state, and the pedestrian district around charming Pearl Street is always lively, hosting street entertainment almost daily. It's also the ideal place to have a drink or dine out, taking advantage of its idyllic location at the foot of the magnificent Flatirons formations. After exploring the small stores and historic sites in the town center at your own pace, and taking time to stroll along the green Creek Path trail, get some fresh air in Chautauqua Park, which offers magnificent mountain walks. The town also abounds in small cafés, independent bookstores and farmers' markets.
Read more: Colorado, a multifaceted destination
10. Enjoy Glenwood Springs
Located an hour's drive northwest of Aspen, in the valley at the intersection of Interstate 70 and Route 82, which runs deep into the mountains, the small town of Glenwood Springs is renowned for its hot springs. There are several options for enjoying these naturally warm waters: the underground caves of Yampah Spa & Vapor, ideal for lounging and soothing muscular pain in a unique setting, or the various pools of Iron Mountain Hot Springs, ideally located on the banks of a river. However, the most historic and oldest pool is Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. If you're a thrill-seeker, Glenwood Springs is also the place for you: you can go rafting and rock-climbing.
11. Skiing at Breckenridge
What to visit in Colorado? Breckenridge is a small ski resort with plenty to offer in summer and winter alike. A former mining town, Breckenridge was absent from maps of the region until the 1850s, earning a reputation as one of Colorado's best-kept secrets. Breckenridge is also one of the highest resorts in the region, and its snow is reputed to be among the best around. On the town side, Breckenridge offers a pleasant little town center lined with typical colorful buildings and a fine selection of restaurants and boutiques. It's also a major wellness destination, with numerous spa and massage salons.
12. Royal Gorge Bridge And Park
The Royal Gorge is one of Colorado's deepest canyons. Its narrowness allowed the construction of a bridge, the Royal Gorge Bridge, which is the highest suspension bridge in the United States and was for a long time the highest in the world. If you're in the area, don't miss this architectural feat and its vertiginous panorama of the Arkansas River, which meanders below between the narrow, dark canyon walls. Plan to cross the bridge on foot to reach the other bank and its various infrastructures. If you're not afraid of heights, there are several installations where you can cross, slide or swing over the deep chasm.
To book: Click here to book your ticket for the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. You'll cross America's highest suspension bridge and enjoy access to the gondola.
13. Experience the western atmosphere at Cripple Creek
A small town emblematic of the golden age of the Far West, Cripple Creek is a veritable invitation to travel back in time. Although casinos have replaced the saloons of yesteryear and sightseeing tours have taken over the old industrial sites, the Western atmosphere remains intact. The deserted dirt lanes, the typical brick buildings, sometimes adorned with murals, and a sulphurous history marked by brothels, gambling dens, alcohol and banditry: everything is there to immerse you in the effervescence of the Colorado Gold Rush. After exploring the small downtown area, head to the Heritage Center to discover how this grazing region was transformed in just a few years into one of the largest mining towns of its time.
Good to know: To relive this past, you can also visit an old mine and take a steam train ride through a countryside marked by its industrial heritage. Explore one of Colorado's most famous mining towns on this Cripple Creek backcountrytour .
14. Ouray, a veritable compendium of Western culture
Ouray is a charming little village nestled in the colorful Whitehouse Mountains. The town stretches along a scenic backdrop, with a small historic center centered around a main street that concentrates restaurants, bars and souvenir stores in elegant buildings of classic Western architecture. It's a veritable condensation of Western culture, where the streets are still mostly dirt. The setting is so magical that you'll almost never want to leave. Take advantage of this unique atmosphere and set off on foot to explore its wild and picturesque parks before treating yourself to a relaxing break in its natural hot springs.
Good to know: If you're a fan of the American series "The Ranch", you'll immediately recognize the town that appears at the start of each episode.
15. What to visit in Colorado Red Rocks Park
What to visit in Colorado? Located less than 30 kilometers from downtown Denver, Red Rocks Park is a magnificent park characterized by its red rock formations, as the name suggests. The park is home to the famous amphitheater, which hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year. But it's also an ideal place for a stroll, with its unique geological formations and breathtaking views of the valley stretching as far as the eye can see.
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16. Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park, a spectacular canyon
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a spectacular canyon famous for its unusual dark color and narrowness. It occupies a small part of the total Gunnison Reserve, stretching for only about twenty kilometers, but in the portion where the canyon is steepest and most impressive. The rest of the reserve is made up of the Curecanti protected area and, downstream, the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The national park itself is divided into two rims: South Rim, accessible from Montrose, is the more developed part, with a Visitor Center and numerous viewpoints. North Rim, though wilder, is perhaps also the more spectacular.
Read more: Top 10 great hiking destinations
17. See Durango's famous train line
What to visit in Colorado Founded in 1881, Durango has long linked the miners of the San Juan region with the town of Silverton. Its famous train line has become a historic landmark. Since then, Durango has become a great place to live, with a unique atmosphere that's part sports, part western, part hippie, part art. Whether you choose Durango as a base to explore the surrounding mountains, visit the pueblo remnants of Mesa Verde National Park, relive the famous train ride to Silverton, or simply enjoy its pleasant downtown, it's a must-stop to consider during your stay in Colorado.
To book: Book right here for a round-trip train ride to Silverton on the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge rail line.
18. Taste Colorado's culinary specialties
Colorado isn't just famous for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities; it's also renowned for its rich culinary scene. Among local specialties, "Rocky Mountain Oysters" is a must, although this dish is actually made from breaded and fried bull testicles, often served with cocktail sauce. For meat lovers, bison and elk are popular choices, often prepared as steaks or burgers. Local trout, caught in Colorado's rivers, are also a delicacy, often served grilled or smoked. And don't miss green chile-based dishes like "Green Chile", a spicy sauce that goes perfectly with many dishes.
19. What to visit in Colorado Grand Lake
what to visit in Colorado? Located at the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is a charming little town nestled between two lakes: Grand Lake, from which it takes its name, and the long Shadow Mountain Lake. Bathed by the crystal-clear waters of its streams, which reflect bewitching hues depending on the time of day, Grand Lake offers beautiful walks along its shores. It's the promise ofa soothing stopover in a majestic setting, with the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop. The small downtown area is equally charming, with its main street lined with 60 boutiques, restaurants and art galleries.
20. Manitou Springs
What to visit in Colorado Manitou, whose name means "great spirit" in Native American, is a charming mountain town renowned for its mineral springs. A total of eight naturally gaseous springs, located in its historic center, are freely accessible. The two main ones are Shoshone Springs and Wheeler Springs. Carry a flask and pass from fountain to fountain to discover the differences between each water, more or less salty, ferruginous or sparkling. The town is also appreciated for its pretty center, crossed by a stream and offering a spa-like atmosphere.
21. Colorado National Monument, a little-known geological treasure
Located at the western end of Colorado, Colorado National Monument is a slightly off-center canyon in the Rocky Mountain region. Classified as a national monument, this geological treasure is less well known and therefore less visited than Utah's national parks, but just as well worth the detour. Whether for a few hours or a day, come and admire this magnificent ochre-hued valley, dotted with steppes creating a carpet of greenery and cut by spectacular rock formations. A fascinating landscape that perfectly matches the cliché image of Colorado: deep canyons in an arid landscape planted with scrub vegetation.
Good to know: In this grandiose setting, you can hike, horseback ride or bike. Take the Rim Rock Drive, which offers spectacular views of the plateau, canyons and mythical flat-topped peaks. Walks of varying lengths take you up to the cliffs overlooking the valley, or out into the canyon's desert landscape.
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