Colorado is a place that gets people excited just by thinking about it. Known as one of America’s top spots for stunning natural scenery, it attracts nearly 100 million visitors every year. But when it comes to planning a trip, many people feel overwhelmed. There are too many things to explore, but time is limited. Everyone says "must go here", "must not miss that place", which makes choosing where to go pretty hard.

We have conducted careful research through the real experiences of tourists and the sharing of local people to choose the best places to visit in Colorado. Hopefully, this article will help you pick one and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

1. Aspen

This place is so unreal. Photo by f11photo on stock.adobe.com

Aspen is one of Colorado's most picturesque places, known for its breathtaking natural landscape. The Maroon Bells is a must-see destination, with two peaks that stand out for their scenic magnificence (and also prime spots for some sunrise viewing). Aspen is also a popular place to visit in Colordaro for couples.

Furthermore, if you want to observe the entire town of Aspen from above, do not hesitate to take the Silver Queen Gondola cable car. The ride lasts around 20 minutes and takes you from the town centre to the top of the mountain, where you can access over 75 trails.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

A good place for a day hike with your family. Photo by Bob on stock.adone.com

Located in north-central Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, with over 4.5 million visitors each year. During winter, the park transforms into a pristine white wonderland, perfectly suited for cross-country skiing and snowboarding.

Trail Ridge Road is a highlight, not just because it’s the highest paved road in the U.S., but because of how it makes you feel like you’re moving through layers of the earth. It’s one of the best road trip with stunning vista in the US.

For a calmer experience, Bear Lake is a good option. It’s a short walk and doesn’t require much effort, but the reflections on the water are worth the visit, especially in the early morning before the crowds arrive.

3. Boulder

Boulder easily earns its spot among the best places to visit in Colorado. Photo by Jim Glab on stock.adone.com

Despite being a small city located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder has won many prestigious titles. Some of them include Top 1 Best Place to Live in the World (2020), or Top 7 Safest Places to Live in the World (2020).

Besides the iconic landmarks such as Chautauqua Park and Pearl St Mall, you cannot miss the Celestial Seasonings factory tour. For just $5 per person, you get to taste various teas and even get a sample to take home. While it doesn’t sound much, many find this experience more interesting than they anticipated.

Moreover, the Boulder Farmers Market is a vibrant community hub operating since 1987, featuring locally sourced foods from Colorado farmers. Open Saturdays (April–November) and Wednesdays (May–October), it offers a wide range of fresh produce and ready-to-eat foods from local vendors. The market’s scenic location is by Boulder Creek, alongside cultural landmarks like the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse.

4. Pikes Peak

Imagine you are the main character in an iconic romantic movie. Photo by PixelView.Media on stock.adone.com

It’s hard to resist the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the beauty of this iconic mountain. It's a relaxing 15-km drive and gives you the chance to enjoy the landscape. Additionally, there is a summit café where you can sample their well-known, freshly cooked high-altitude doughnuts every day.

If you prefer to travel by car, you should get a Pikes Peak Highway ticket, which costs only $15 for adults and less than half for kids, and drive up the mountain. 

5. Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods showcases towering red sandstone formations against Pikes Peak. Photo by Kit Leong on stock.adobe.com

With its massive red rock formations and distant peaks, Garden of the Gods will leave you in awe of its grandeur. There are plenty of trails that take you deeper into the landscape, but the Perkins Center is the best option for beginners.

Additionally, you may ascend the famous rocks. If climbing is too much for you, you may explore the park by renting a bike or going on a guided Jeep trip. Its free visitor centre features displays about the park's distinctive animals and geology.

6. Denver

The flowers blooming at Washington Park, Denver. Photo by Susan Hodgson on stock.adone.com

Denver, known as the Mile High City, is also one of the best places to visit in Colorado. Confluence Park, located where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, offers a peaceful atmosphere. This urban oasis is a local favourite, offering scenic trails for walking and biking. 

If you are visiting with kids, don’t miss Meow Wolf: Convergence Station. This 90,000-square-foot space spans four stories, so huge for a whole family to explore interconnected, imaginative worlds. 

7. Red Rocks Amphitheatre

An outdoor stage with rows of seats built into red rock hills. Photo by naughtynut on stock.adobe.com

Among the unique places to visit in Colorado, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is always worth a mention. Set between two massive red sandstone formations just outside Denver, this venue feels like it was carved specifically for unforgettable experiences. 

Red Rocks is also a peaceful sanctuary during the day. Perfect spot for a day hike, there are trails winding through the surrounding park to see incredible views of the rock formations. 

Also, please register the “Yoga on the Rocks” and “Film on the Rocks,” both of which are local favourites. Since this is a ticketed event with no drop-in sales at the door, we suggest you purchase the ticket online via the official site.

Read more: Backpacking Checklist - Gear Packing Checklist & More

8. Great Sand Dunes National Park

How about camping here? Photo by Tomasz Zajda on stock.adone.com

With Star Dune rising to a height of about 750 feet, Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. The contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the golden sand is a spectacular sight, as it is situated at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

The park's Medano Creek is yet another distinctive feature. The creek's underwater sand ridges provide a "surge flow" phenomenon, where wave-like pulses emerge every 20 seconds. So be sure to pack your swimsuit when visiting this unique place in Colorado.

9. Estes Park

A tranquil place to unwind. Photo by MelissaMN on stock.adobe.com

Estes Park is a small mountain town in Colorado, not far from Rocky Mountain National Park. The town has a peaceful vibe, so great for those looking for a place to breathe fresh air.

The first thing that impresses many visitors is the surrounding natural scenery. Tall mountains appear in all directions, creating a majestic but not overwhelming backdrop. Interspersed with quiet lakes like Lake Estes, ideal for enjoying a few minutes of peace and quiet.

If you are travelling with your family, you can try the Mustang Mountain Coaster. This is a gentle mountain sliding game, not too adventurous but enough to add some excitement in the middle of the mountain scenery.

10. Durango

Durango is so picturesque during fall. Photo by Adelina on stock.adone.com

Durango is a charming blend of Old West history and modern adventure, tucked away in the stunning San Juan Mountains. You will want to check out the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam train takes you on a 45-mile journey through rugged canyons and alongside the Animas River, all the way to the historic mining town of Silverton. Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.

11. Vail

This town is vibrant during the summer season. Photo by jovannig on stock.adone.com

In contrast to the snowy winter, Vail in the summer boasts lush green pine woods with hundreds of wildflowers in shades of purple, yellow, and red. Walking around Vail Village or Lionshead, you'll notice beautiful hanging flower baskets in adorable European-style cafés.

You may trek to Booth Falls or cycle along the Gore Creek Trail. Don't miss the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the world's highest botanical park, which has hundreds of alpine blooms.

Every Sunday, the Vail Farmers Market & Art Show is alive with homemade crafts and street music - the "local vibe" that can't be found anywhere else. When night strikes, you may hike to the summit of Vail Pass to observe the magnificent Milky Way.

12. Leadville

Leadville’s that kind of mountain town you stumble into and never want to leave. Photo by Billy McDonald on stock.adone.com

Despite its modest size of just over 500 acres, Leadville is often cited as one of the best places to visit in Colorado.

To learn about the history of the area, pay a visit to the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. Both are located in the former Leadville High School and document the local mining industry.

In the meantime, the Matchless Mine and the Baby Doe Tabor Cabin will offer a glimpse into Leadville's silver mining boom. Or you can stop by the Tabor Opera House, which hosts tours and events that bring Leadville’s storied past to life.

If you want something different, rent some kayaks and have fun with the water in the Twin Lakes.

13. Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake is one of the prettiest places in Colorado. Photo by Jeremy Janus on stock.adone.com

Hanging Lake attracts many visitors worldwide to admire its tranquil and crystal clear beauty. You will need to hike about 1.4 miles to reach the lake. The trail is steep and rocky, so be sure to pack non-slip shoes before you hike. Oh, and get a permit before reaching here, also.

When you reach the top, you will see a stunning blue lake surrounded by trees. However, to preserve its pristine beauty, you are not allowed to swim, fish, or even take your pet here. In fact, to visit, you must reserve a spot and only a limited number of visitors are allowed.

14. Manitou Springs

Hiking in Manitou Springs offers mountain views and peaceful overlooks of the valley below. Photo by arinahabich on stock.adone.com

Founded in 1872 by General William Jackson Palmer and Dr. William Abraham Bell, Manitou Springs was envisioned as a scenic health resort. Its picturesque setting and therapeutic waters have drawn visitors seeking health treatment.

The town's mineral springs have been famous for centuries. In ancient times, Native American tribes, including the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho, considered the bubbling waters sacred, believing them to be the "breath of the Great Spirit of Manitou." 

What's more, these natural springs contain trace minerals such as lithium, which are believed to have healing properties. Today, you can take a self-guided "Springabout" tour to sample the waters from several public fountains scattered throughout town.

15. Silverton

This spot deserves a weekend vacation with your family. Photo by on stock.adone.com

Silverton is nestled in the San Juan Mountains, with rugged beauty and a mining history, perfect for a weekend getaway.

For the best experience, take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Silverton. You’ll board a vintage steam train and cruise along cliffs and deep canyons, with stunning views of the Animas River and the snow-capped peaks all around you. Don’t forget to bring a tripod to capture your shots, even on the train.

While you’re in town, stroll along Historic Main Street to get the vibe here. Stop by one of the many restaurants and enjoy innovative dishes like bacon-wrapped dates with saffron or cauliflower and chickpea curry.

16. Crested Butte

The sunrise here offers a breathtaking view with soft light spilling over the mountains and wildflowers. Photo by on stock.adone.com

Flower and nature lovers will love Crested Butte, dubbed the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” Some of the famous wildflowers there include lupine, indian paintbrush and sego lily.

In the summer, you can explore more than 300 miles of mountain bike trails. If you’re into hiking, you can choose to follow the Lower Loop for stunning views of the Slate River and surrounding peaks.

Plus, don’t miss the annual Crested Butte Wildflower Festival in July. Here, you can take photography workshops and take art classes to celebrate the colourful flowers that cover the landscape.

17. Sand Wash Basin

Wild horses roam freely across vast landscapes. Photo by Nina on stock.adobe.com

Sand Wash Basin is located in northwestern Colorado, covering about 155,000 acres of rugged high desert terrain. Here, you will enjoy the old American vibe with vast landscapes and rolling plateaus.

The best time to see wild horses is early morning and late evening. At this time, the horses go looking for water, so they move to the watery areas in the valley. In addition, this area is also home to elk, deer, pronghorn and many other birds.

Plus, there is no entrance fee required. A small tip is to follow the "Leave No Trace" regulations to protect the natural environment. You are allowed to camp rough, but there are no amenities. So prepare enough for camping and hiking. 

18. Glenwood Springs

A branch of the Colorado River passes Glenwood Springs. Photo by jerzy on stock.adone.com

Glenwood Springs is still a destination for relaxation, making it one of the best places to visit in Colorado.

You can start your day by soaking in the world's largest hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, a historic destination that has been rejuvenating visitors since 1888. Meanwhile, Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers 16 mineral-rich soaking pools along the Colorado River.

For thrill-seekers, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, America's only mountaintop theme park, is such a good choice. You can ride a scenic gondola to the top of Iron Mountain and enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides like the Giant Canyon Swing. 

19. Steamboat Springs

Best place in Colorado for aesthetic photos on your Instagram. Photo by Teri on stock.adone.com

Steamboat Springs feels like a Colorado postcard come to life, only better, because you get to live it. This mountain town is famous for its world-class skiing and signature “Champagne Powder®” snow that’s light to glide through. 

Moreover, almost all visitors choose to unwind in the rustic Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Its mineral-rich waters are surrounded by snow-covered pines in the winter and wildflowers in the summer.

CabinZero Daypacks for Hiking

You know how a light, tough pack can change your trip. CabinZero’s daypacks fit this bill: they use durable, ripstop polyester fabric which resists wear yet stays light. 

On the trail, you’ll appreciate the padded back panel, adjustable sternum strap and cushy shoulder straps, plus a supportive hip belt. Notably, a padded hip belt helps shift up to 80% of the backpack’s weight from the shoulders to the hips – and CabinZero packs offer just that for comfort on long hikes. These features make the journey feel easier and help prevent soreness. 

If you’re a beginner hiker, our guide on how to choose a hiking backpack explains these details too. From personal experience, starting with a trail-ready CabinZero pack means less strain and more fun on your hikes!

Your CabinZero Guide To Colorado's Best

Colorado is hands down one of the best cities to visit in the U.S. With its natural attractions and fresh atmosphere, you can enjoy several outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping.

From above, we have listed some of the best places to visit in Colorado. Why don’t you pick one and start preparing for your trip? And don’t forget to share your experience in the comment section. 

Moreover, if this article gives you some travel ideas, go ahead and share them with your friends. Thank you for coming with us!

Ha Ngan