The Best Things to Do in Colorado, the Adventure Lover's State

Colorado is probably best known for its impressive range of epic outdoor adventure opportunities and adrenaline-inspiring experiences ranging from climbing massive white sand dunes, to trekking up the famously towering “fourteeners” (mountains taller than 14,000 feet). There are epic ski and snowboarding resorts, seemingly endless hiking trails, serene, clear blue mountain lakes, and so much more. The state has rightfully earned its reputation as an outdoors-lovers paradise, and it’s the reason why so many types of traveler choose to come here.

But there are also plenty of awesome activities for the indoor kids — equally thrilling city escapes for the less rustic among us. There are arts and culture hot spots, award winning craft breweries and cocktail bars, and infinite educational opportunities to learn about nature, ecology, and astronomy. You’ll find farm-fresh food stops and Michelin-worthy dining venues perched on peaks with breathtaking views, live music and theater performances — and more.

This itinerary lays out various things to do across some of the most popular tourism destinations in the Centennial state — but the difference is, travelers and locals alike likely won’t find these activities through a quick “what to do in” search engine query.

Here are some of the most underrated and under-the-radar things to do in Colorado to feel that natural “Rocky Mountain High."

See: Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This iconic open-air amphitheater venue is one of the most famous entertainment venues in the world and is 100% worth the hype. The range of performances each season includes legendary concerts, “yoga on the rocks” sessions, and outdoor movie nights. Since the max capacity is just under 10,000 seats and most tickets are sold as General Admission without seat assignments, it’s famed as a spot to see a show where there are really no “bad” seats in the house.

Touch: The healing waters of a natural hot spring. Check out Glenwood Springs — a resort city that sits about 2.5 hours West of Denver up in the Rocky Mountains, and stop by historic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort which boasts the largest hot springs pool in the world. There’s even an Amtrak train route that runs straight into town from downtown Denver Union Station for those who don’t want to drive.

Smell: The fresh mountain air of Rocky Mountain National Park. This 415-square-mile national park in northern Colorado spans the Continental Divide, is roughly 90 minutes northwest of Denver, and is one of the most famous parks in the world for good reason. Its stunning beauty can be experienced through clear blue alpine lakes, breathtaking mountain peaks, scenic byway drives, inspiring wildlife encounters, and seemingly endless trails to explore.

Hear: The whistle blowing from a train along one of Colorado’s awe-inspiring, historic railway routes. There are many epic railway rides in Colorado to experience. Routes wind through towering canyons and near flowing waterways on rails that date back to the mining days. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a crowd favorite, and it’s just 45 minutes outside of Denver up in the mountains.

Taste: Colorado wine. Oenophiles can’t leave without a taste of Colorado’s underxposed, rising winemaking scene, which can be experienced across the state from Littleton, which is just outside of Denver (and where one of the biggest operations, Carboy Winery is based), to Colterris Winery in Palisade on the Western Slope (unofficially known as the state’s “wine country region”), and can be a fun weekend getaway just four hours West of Denver.

The “Mile High City” got its nickname from its perfectly positioned perch up at 5,280 feet in
elevation. Denverites are generally laid-back, adventure-loving folk who prefer to spend their time outdoors doing activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nature and Denver is an extremely dog-friendly city—in fact, it’s not uncommon to feel like you’re encountering nearly as many Fido friends as humans at any given restaurant or trail head.

Denverites love shortening the names for their neighborhoods—which means you can explore favorite districts like LoDo (short for Lower Downtown), LoHi (short for Lower Highlands), and RiNo (River North), to name a few hotspots. All of these areas are accessible from Denver Union Station (a landmark itself), which has trains running consistently to and from the Denver International Airport (meaning it’s not 100% necessary to rent a car to enjoy the awesome offerings of this walkable city).

Morning – Stroll or cycle along the South Platte River Pathway.
The South Platte River Pathway is a scenic, paved pathway that runs for many miles, paralleling the Platte River through some exceptionally cool neighborhoods like LoDo and RiNo. Whether on foot or two wheels, the pathway features easy access to many awesome landmarks—like the historic REI building (which houses what may be one of the coolest and most picturesque Starbucks in the world), Arkins Promenade which offers a nice view of the city skyline, and Empower Field, home to the Denver Broncos—among many other spots.

Noon — Check out the museum at Red Rocks.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre itself isn’t a secret—each year, hundreds of thousands of people travel from across the world to visit this legendary venue for hiking, yoga, and of course, once-in-a-lifetime concerts. But what many visitors aren’t aware of is Red Rocks’ massive on-site Visitor Center which is tucked away beneath the venue. This museum-style space provides an insider look at the history of Red Rocks, with tons of original artwork including signed show posters, photos, and a list of everyone who has ever played at the venue.

Afternoon — Head to FlyteCo Tower for a bite and a craft beer.
This locally owned and operated brewery lives in the 12-story former flight control tower of what used to be the city’s main airport. From 1929 to 1995 (before the opening of the modern Denver International Airport), Stapleton International Airport was Denver's major hub for air travel — and although there are no longer any aircraft taking off and landing here, one remnant of the spot still lives today: its control tower. Visitors to FlyteCo can actually hike up to the top via a $12 “tower tour.”

Evening — Embark on an out-of-body experience out Prismajic, and visit the Night Owls Bar.
Relax and stimulate your senses at Prismajic—an indoor fantasyland art experience. Shiki Dreams is Prismajic’s permanent walk-through immersive, interactive installation, and includes an equally enchanting restaurant and bar space called Night Owls Bar, which creates craft cocktails and bites that each offer their own supernatural sensory journey. The Sensory Flight is a sharable lineup of five three-ounce cocktail courses that are each named after a different sense (“see” changes color, “touch” tingles your tongue).

Vail might be best known for its international status as one of the most luxurious ski resort destinations in the world (and it does offer unparalleled, elevated experiences for those who seek to spare no expense), but there’s so much more to explore in this European village-feeling city beyond the slopes, and any time of year.

Visitors and locals alike enjoy soaking in the fresh mountain air with a stroll through the Vail Village or Lionshead Village—walkable districts lined with local restaurants and shops and adorable old-world Bavarian architecture and design elements. Follow the meandering pathway of winding Gore Creek which flows between the two districts, or take the free bus shuttle to explore further, in the East and West Vail areas.

Morning — Visit the Walking Mountain Science Center.
The Walking Mountain Science Center has multiple locations, including a beautiful seven-acre facility in the heart of downtown Vail. Here, outdoors enthusiasts can explore the trails along Gore Creek, and learn about the local flora and fauna with wildflower viewing and beaver pond tours, among many other interactive, educational activities.

Noon — Dine at Annapurna Nepali Indian Cuisine.
Inside the Evergreen Lodge, this is a locally beloved staple for Indian cooking at both lunch and dinner. Although it’s nearly impossible to go wrong with anything on the menu, favorites include the Chicken Masala and Traditional Curry.

Afternoon — Visit Gravity Haus in downtown Vail for a session of Oxygen inhalation therapy.
The altitude in the mountains is no joke. Recover from the heights, as well as any travel or other outdoor mountain adventures with a unique Oxygen inhalation therapy treatment at Gravity Haus in downtown Vail. The treatment has been said to “improve energy, mood, and concentration.” Plus, it’s relatively affordable, at $40 for a 20-minute treatment. For those who just want to enjoy the spa’s facilities and amenities—which include a hot tub, sauna, steam room, cold plunge, salt lounge, and a full fitness facility—you can buy a $50 day pass, which comes with access to use the property’s coworking space.

Evening — Embark on a stargazing experience with Rocky Stargaze Adventures.
Splurge on an intimate, guided mountain stargazing experience with Rocky Stargaze Adventures, led by a local astrophysicist who has spent more than 20 years studying the stars. It’s the first and only company offering astronomy tours in the Vail Valley, and tour groups max out at just four people. Gaze at the night sky to spy planets, the moon, galaxies, and stars with telescopes and the naked eye, and learn about the mythology and science behind the constellations.

This lively town 30 minutes northwest of Denver is much more than a college town or a city suburb (although you can feel the youthful energy due to it being the home to the University of Colorado Boulder campus)—it’s a playground for outdoors enthusiasts, lovers of local shopping, and those who love to eat. The people here are known for being happy, healthy, and welcoming, and encourage visitors to come experience their little slice of mountain paradise.

The walkable downtown feels like something out of a storybook and is anchored by the brick-paved pedestrian corridor, Pearl Street, which is riddled with street performers, artisans, boutique fitness studios, independent shops, bookstores, and restaurants—and seemingly endless activities to enjoy in any season.

Morning — Grab tea and a pretty pastry at Dushanbe Tea House. 
Visiting the Dushanbe Tea House feels like traveling abroad and back in time. It isn’t just a place to get some tea, it’s a destination to soak in a stunning work of art (plus, yes, it does serve great tea). The space was a gift from Boulder’s sister city, Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan. From 1987 to 1990, more than 40 artisans in several cities in Tajikistan worked to craft detailed decorations for the ornate interior and exterior of the teahouse that reflect the city’s 2,000-year-old artistic traditions. Striking elements of design work (all of which are done by hand, without machines) include the hand-carved and hand-painted ceiling, columns, sculptures, and ceramic tilework. Don’t miss the signature Boulder Teahouse Chai, which is hand-brewed in small batches from the same recipe for two decades. Make a reservation later for a full-fledged afternoon high tea session with all the fixings, or just stop in for a soul-warming cup anytime.

Afternoon — Explore the Boulder Farm Trail. 
The Boulder Farm Trail is a road trip (or cycling trip, for those feeling adventurous) through a series of farm stands selling delicious fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, flowers, and pasture-raised meats, as well as wholesome agricultural experiences like seasonal fruit picking and pumpkin patches. Many of the farms distribute to local restaurants and businesses, including the certified organic Black Cat farm, which has its own farm-to-table restaurant in town called Bramble and Hare.

Evening — Visit eTown Hall to experience an awesome arts and entertainment lineup. 
E-Town Hall in downtown Boulder is an underrated local music venue and recording studio space that lives on the iconic Pearl Street. The venue hosts what it calls a “laid-back, Prairie Home Companion-style” music variety show that gets broadcast to public radio stations across the country. Big names like James Taylor, the Fray, Jack Johnson, and the Barenaked Ladies, among other legendary musicians, have performed in this intimate space of just 220 people that was once a church, but has since transformed to host some of music’s biggest names.

This mountain town is known for its seemingly unparalleled wildflower season when the entire mountainside erupts into a rainbow of colors in the mid-late summer months. But it’s a gem to visit year-round, whether it’s snowsports season, mountain biking season, leaf-peeping season, and beyond.

Morning – Embark on a self-guided art walk tour of downtown and take a ceramics class. 
The charming downtown district of Crested Butte is sprinkled with quaint local galleries and shops, such as RedLine Gallery and Gunnison Gallery, which showcase the works of local artists across mediums like ceramics, jewelry, painting, and more. Also be sure not to miss the Crested Butte Center for the Arts, which hosts events and performances like music, film, and dance, as well as annual arts and film festivals. Stop into Crested Butte Clay Studio and try one of their classes — perfect for creatives of any age and skill level to learn basics like hand-building, wheel-throwing, and sculpture.

Afternoon – Visit the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory.
This high-altitude lab is an internationally renowned location known to be conducting invaluable scientific research and education on climate change and the environment. It’s open to the public, and in warmer months features a range of outdoor activities including a series of guided tours, lectures, and youth programs. In the winter, the hut and cabin rentals can be an immersive cold-weather nature experience.

Evening — Dine at Uley’s Cabin. 
Uley’s Cabin isn’t just a standard bite to eat on the mountain—it’s an award-winning dining experience. The unique ski-in cabin is located mid-mountain at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and features world-class cuisine with an atmosphere to match, inside and out.

Sitting at an elevation of more than 10,000 feet, this Victorian-era mining town 100 miles West of Denver is the highest incorporated City in North America. The city dates back to the late 1800s silver mining boom and is surrounded by two of the tallest peaks in the state (and Colorado's highest fourteeners!): Mount Elbert and Mount Massive.

The city is great for adventure enthusiasts as it’s known for its wide variety of outdoor activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to epic mountain biking and hiking in the summertime. But for those who prefer a relaxing stroll, the picturesque, walkable downtown is lined with museums detailing the area’s rich history, as well as quality independent restaurants and quaint local shops selling artisan goodies.

Morning— Adventure along 12-mile loop The Mineral Belt trail. 
This accessible, paved rail trail uses sections of three former rail lines (the Colorado Midland Railway, Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad, and the Colorado & Southern Railway) and is perfect for all ages and ability levels. It’s great for cycling, walking, and running in the warmer seasons, and it’s well-groomed for Nordic skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing in the winter. The pathway circumnavigates the town, boasting stunning sights of the majestic mountain vistas and spooky remains of the 1880s silver mines.

Noon — Visit Melanzana for a shopping excursion. 
Make a reservation to check out the 30-year-old legendary outerwear company, Melanzana, which has gained a cult-like following over the past three decades. The brand only sells merchandise in their Leadville factory store, and it’s so popular that visitors need to make an appointment just to get in and shop the full line of products.

Afternoon — Take a tour of the Matchless Mine.
Taking a surface tour of the legendary Matchless Mine is a unique chance to explore an old silver mine from the heyday of Colorado’s mining era. Learn the fascinating history of the Tabor mining family, who went from “riches to rags” (yes, the opposite) due to scandal, infidelity, and “hitting it big,” while ultimately ending in a plummeting downward crash. This was one of the richest mines during Colorado’s Silver Rush, estimated to have produced $7.5 million in its time. But when the value of silver crashed, the fortunes vanished, and the Tabors were left without a penny.

Evening — Dine at the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse. 
The stereotype that Coloradans love to keep active is beyond accurate, so it’s only fitting that it takes a one-mile ski, snowshoe, or trek on foot up through a peaceful backcountry setting to the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse for perhaps one of the most memorable meals you can have in the state. The effort is well worth the reward as you’re met with a candlelit, multi-course feast made with local ingredients in a unique yurt setting with breathtaking mountain views. Extend the experience and book one of their off-grid but fully furnished solar-powered sleep yurts, which feel cozy and secluded enough to disconnect from the world and fully relax.

This eclectic, artsy, and historic town just six miles west of Colorado Springs was settled by Westerners in the late 1800s with the goal of being a scenic health resort, and has only become more popular with visitors since.

Among the town’s major attractions: the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, the historic Manitou Cliff Dwellings, and the infamous “Manitou Incline”—a one-mile set of vertical steps with 2,000 feet of elevation gain that Olympic athletes use for training. The Incline is also the beginning of the Barr Trail, the pathway that leads all the way up to one of America’s most famous mountains. It’s said the view from the “purple mountain majesties” atop Pikes Peak in the Rocky Mountains captivated Katharine Lee Bates during the summer of 1893, and inspired the opening lines of “America the Beautiful.”

Morning — Embark on the Manitou Springs Mineral Spring Walking Tour. 
Manitou Springs and adjacent Colorado Springs get the “springs” in their name from Manitou Springs’ natural medicinal mineral waters that were used by the tribes of the plains and the Mountain Utes as healing waters centuries ago. Rainwater and snowmelt from nearby Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains soaks into the rock fissures and becomes heated and mineralized, flows into limestone where it becomes carbonated, and can be found bubbling up around numerous natural and manmade springs throughout the area. Each spring tastes different, and visitors can explore eight of the springs on the Manitou Springs Mineral Spring Walking Tour by stopping into the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau to grab a map and a detailed chart of the mineral makeup of each spring.

Afternoon — Embark on a spiritual healing journey at Aurathentic. 
Aurathentic hosts a range of personalized spiritual practices, ranging from aura readings and consultations to energy healing, sound healing, and chakra balancing. Next, stop into Cherokee’s of Manitou for some shopping and a light snack. This artist-owned and operated gallery and cheese shop has been a town favorite for two decades, showcasing works of art like locally crafted jewelry and oil paintings alongside a lineup of gourmet cheeses and charcuterie boards.

Evening — Stroll, shop, and dine at the Shops on Ruxton Avenue.
Ruxton Avenue is rife with cute boutiques like Flowers and the Moon, Orenda Natural Wear, the Land of Ozz, and the Cauldron, among others. It’s located just at the west end of historic downtown Manitou Springs, and is oftentimes overlooked by travelers who don’t (yet!) know about it. Be sure to visit the Iron Springs Chateau Melodrama Dinner Theater to enjoy a niche dinner comedy experience where guests are encouraged to interact with the performance while they dine.

Colorado is a fantastic destination to visit any time, as the state sees roughly 300 days of sunshine in most areas each year, and experiences all four seasons—it just depends on what you want to see and do. There are incredible leaf-peeping sights in autumn, unparalleled dry powder snow with bluebird clear sky days perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and strikingly colorful wildflower blooms in the spring and summertime.

Do: Expect the unexpected when it comes to the weather forecast. Coloradans joke that weather— including temperature, wind speed, snowfall, and sunshine—feels like it changes by the second. In fall, winter, and spring, the forecast may say it’s going to be sunny, but it could end up unexpectedly snowing instead. It’s important to be prepared for anything. And always wear sunscreen, and bring moisturizer, since most popular tourist destinations in the state are drier and at higher elevations than visitors are typically used to (which means it’s much easier to get sunburned).

It’s said that Christmas lights first got their start in Colorado in 1914, when pioneering Denver electrician David Dwight "DD" Sturgeon dipped lightbulbs in red and green paint and hung them in a pine tree outside his son David's window to inspire some holiday spirit. This was has become known as the first “outdoor illuminated Christmas tree,” and D.D. Sturgeon was deemed the Father of Yule Lighting.

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