When I first planned my trip to Colorado, I knew I was in for a beautiful adventure—and I wasn’t disappointed. With its tall mountains, charming towns, and endless outdoor activities, Colorado quickly became one of my favorite places to visit.
Whether you love hiking, skiing, sightseeing, or just relaxing in nature, there’s something here for everyone. I wanted to see and do as much as possible, from exploring national parks to walking through cool cities like Denver and Boulder. Each place had its own unique vibe, and I was amazed at how much variety Colorado offers.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Colorado based on my own experiences. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to see and where to go, I hope this helps you make the most of your time in this stunning state.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
When I visited Rocky Mountain National Park, I was blown away by the beauty all around me. The towering mountains, clear blue lakes, and fresh pine air made it feel like a true escape into nature.
I spent hours hiking some of the park’s many trails. Whether you want an easy walk or a challenging climb, there’s something for every level. I even spotted some wildlife like deer and birds along the way, which made the experience even more special.
Driving through the park is also amazing, especially along Trail Ridge Road — one of the highest paved roads in the U.S. The views from up there were unforgettable, with mountain peaks stretching as far as I could see.
If you love nature, hiking, or just want a peaceful day surrounded by stunning scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see in Colorado.
Walk Around Denver’s LoDo District
When I was in Denver, one of my favorite places to explore was the LoDo District—short for Lower Downtown. It’s a lively area full of history, cool shops, and great places to eat.
I loved walking the streets lined with old brick buildings that have been turned into trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques. There was always something happening, whether it was live music, street art, or people enjoying the outdoor patios.
If you’re into craft beer, LoDo is a great spot to try local breweries. I also enjoyed stopping by the famous Union Station, which is not only a train station but also a hub of cafes and shops.
Whether you want to shop, eat, or just soak in the city vibe, walking around LoDo gave me a perfect taste of Denver’s charm and energy.
Ski or Snowboard in Aspen or Vail
When I think of Colorado, I immediately think of skiing and snowboarding, and there’s no better place to enjoy these winter sports than Aspen and Vail. Both resorts are famous worldwide for their incredible slopes and beautiful mountain views.
I tried skiing for the first time in Aspen, and it was unforgettable. The snow was perfect, and the runs suited all skill levels—from beginner to expert. Vail, on the other hand, amazed me with its vast terrain and charming village atmosphere.
Even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, these towns have great shops, cozy restaurants, and lively après-ski spots where you can relax after a day on the slopes.
For anyone visiting Colorado in winter, spending time in Aspen or Vail is a must. It’s the perfect way to experience the magic of the mountains and the fun of winter sports.
Explore Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
One of the most amazing places I visited in Colorado was Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. The huge red rock formations rising from the ground looked like something from another planet. I couldn’t believe how beautiful and unique the landscape was.
I spent a few hours walking the paved trails and taking in the views. There were so many great spots for photos, especially with the mountains in the background. I even saw people rock climbing on the giant rocks, which was exciting to watch.
The best part? It’s completely free to visit. There’s also a visitor center where I learned more about how the rocks were formed and the history of the area.
If you love nature, walking, or just want to see something truly special, Garden of the Gods is a must-see spot in Colorado.
Take a Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road
One of the most breathtaking experiences I had in Colorado was driving along Trail Ridge Road. It’s inside Rocky Mountain National Park, and it’s known as one of the highest paved roads in the country.
As I drove up, the views just kept getting better. I could see snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and wide open skies. At some points, I was above the tree line, and it felt like I was driving through the clouds. I stopped at several lookout points to take photos and just soak in the quiet beauty.
There were also places to pull over for short walks and wildlife sightings. I spotted elk and marmots along the way, which made the trip even more memorable.
If you’re looking for a peaceful adventure with amazing views, driving Trail Ridge Road is something you shouldn’t miss. Just make sure to check the weather, since the road is only open during certain months.
Visit Mesa Verde National Park
When I visited Mesa Verde National Park, I felt like I had stepped back in time. This park is home to ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans, and seeing them up close was truly fascinating.
I joined a guided tour to explore the famous Cliff Palace, and I was amazed by the way these homes were built into the side of the cliffs. The park rangers shared stories about the people who lived there over 700 years ago, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for their culture and history.
There are also plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives in the park, so I had a chance to enjoy nature while learning something new. The views from the mesa tops were just as stunning as the history beneath them.
If you’re interested in archaeology, history, or just want to see something different in Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is a must-visit.
Relax at Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs
After all the hiking and exploring, I needed a break—and Glenwood Springs was the perfect place to relax. The town is famous for its natural hot springs, and soaking in the warm water felt amazing, especially with the mountain views all around.
I visited the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, which is one of the largest in the world. The water was warm, calming, and just what I needed after a long day. There’s also the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which has several smaller pools with different temperatures. It felt like a peaceful spa day, but out in nature.
Glenwood Springs also has cute shops, good food, and a cozy mountain-town vibe. Spending time there helped me recharge before the next adventure.
If you’re looking to relax and unwind during your trip to Colorado, a visit to the hot springs in Glenwood Springs is a must.
Enjoy Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall
One of my favorite places to hang out in Colorado was Pearl Street Mall in Boulder. It’s not your typical shopping mall—it’s an outdoor walkway filled with fun shops, local restaurants, street performers, and colorful flowers.
I spent hours just walking around, popping into unique stores, and trying tasty snacks. There were musicians playing live music, artists painting on the sidewalks, and even people doing magic tricks. The energy was fun and friendly, and I loved how the whole area had a laid-back, creative vibe.
I also stopped for coffee at a local café and just sat and watched the world go by. Whether you’re shopping, eating, or just people-watching, Pearl Street is a great spot to experience the local culture of Boulder.
If you’re visiting Colorado, make sure to add Pearl Street Mall to your list—it’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the charm of a mountain town.
Go Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River
One of the most exciting things I did in Colorado was whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. I had never tried it before, and it turned out to be an unforgettable adventure.
The river runs through beautiful canyons and mountain valleys, and the scenery was just as amazing as the ride. I joined a guided rafting trip, and the instructors made sure we were safe while having a blast. We splashed through rapids, paddled hard, and laughed the whole time.
There are different levels of rafting, so whether you’re a beginner like me or looking for more intense rapids, there’s an option for everyone. One popular stretch is through the Royal Gorge, where the views are just breathtaking.
If you want to add some excitement to your Colorado trip, I highly recommend trying whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. It’s fun, thrilling, and a great way to experience Colorado’s wild side.
Visit Colorado’s Breweries and Taste Local Craft Beer
As someone who enjoys trying new drinks, I couldn’t leave Colorado without exploring its famous craft beer scene. The state is known for having some of the best breweries in the country, and I quickly found out why.
I started my beer adventure in Denver, where there are tons of breweries within walking distance. I visited a few places that brewed everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. The atmosphere was always relaxed, and the staff were happy to give suggestions or let me sample different kinds.
One of my favorite spots was in Fort Collins, home to big names like New Belgium Brewing. I also checked out smaller, local breweries in mountain towns, where the beer was just as good and the views made it even better.
Whether you’re a craft beer expert or just curious to try something local, Colorado’s breweries are a fun and flavorful way to explore the state.
Conclusion
My trip to Colorado was packed with unforgettable experiences. From hiking in the Rocky Mountains to relaxing in hot springs, and from exploring lively cities like Denver and Boulder to finding peace in nature, there was something special around every corner.
Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, beautiful views, local food, or just relaxing, Colorado has it all. I loved the mix of excitement and calm, and the friendly people made it even better. Every place I visited gave me a new reason to love this amazing state.
If you’re planning a trip, I hope my journey gives you some ideas. There are so many fun things to do in Colorado, and I can’t wait to go back and discover even more.
