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The Best Places to Visit in Colorado — National Parks, Small Towns, and Hot Springs Included

From stunning national parks to quirky small towns, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

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Colorado is perhaps best known for the Rocky Mountains that stretch across the state and offer up hiking and biking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. But what most people don’t know about Colorado is that the state also has beautiful red rock formations set in the dry desert, ancient cliff dwellings, and alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drums.

The one thing that binds everyone who lives in or visits Colorado is a love of nature and the outdoors — be it river rafting, climbing 14,000-foot peaks, or wildflower viewing. And as someone who grew up in the state (and lives here now), I’ve spent several decades exploring the vista-rich Centennial State. These parks, monuments, towns, and sites showcase the variety of experiences the state offers. Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Colorado.

Related: 10 Best Small Towns in Colorado

Rattlesnake Canyon Arches

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Utah’s Arches National Park has the world’s highest concentration of natural arches, but right across the border in Colorado is the world’s second-highest concentration. And in Colorado, you don’t have to pay a national park entry fee (or battle the crowds) to see them. Rattlesnake Canyon Arches boasts 35 natural arches tucked in a canyon on a 123,400-acre preserve. 

Related: 10 Best Colorado National Parks and Sites

Larimer Square

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Colorado may be known for its natural beauty, but the draw of downtown Denver is impossible to overlook. Larimer Square was the city's first designated local historic district for good reason — the city block is perfectly picturesque with shops and eateries that round out the Colorado experience. The square is a short 10-minute walk from the heart of the city: Union Station.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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It doesn’t get more Colorado than watching a golden eagle soar above a steep gorge. The sighting is part of the experience at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in western Colorado. The national park is marked by a deep, river-carved gorge with sheer walls. For the coolest view, check out the Painted Wall cliff that looks as if it was painted with giant stripes.

Colorado National Monument

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When you think of the American West, chances are you imagine something like the Colorado National Monument , which sits high on the Colorado Plateau and includes natural wonders like sheer canyon walls, towering monoliths, herds of bighorn sheep, and soaring eagles. In this grand landscape, there is plenty to keep you busy — including the beautiful Rim Rock Drive, year-round camping, and hiking and biking.

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Aspen is by no means a hidden gem, but it’s popular for a reason. The beautiful mountain town has four ski areas (that you can access with one lift ticket) and a surprising amount of culture for a town of around 7,000 people. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Aspen without a stop by the Maroon Bells , the most photographed mountains in North America.

Mesa Verde National Park

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This national park in southwestern Colorado is considered to be one of the state’s most sacred places. It was once inhabited by the Ancestral Pueblo people who built their homes in the sandstone cliffs. That heritage (and architectural wonder) is protected within this park, which is also a World Heritage Site and an International Dark Sky Park.

Amache National Historic Site

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One of the most significant moments in Colorado’s history is not known by many. The Amache National Historic Site , also called the Granada Relocation Center or Camp Amache, is where thousands of Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. Today, the eastern Colorado site shares the stories of the more than 10,000 people who passed through the camp — the majority of whom were U.S. citizens.

Pagosa Springs

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There are plenty of natural hot springs throughout the state (just check out the state’s hot spring loop ), but one of the best is found in Pagosa Springs, a small town that sits over the world’s deepest hot spring. I’d argue the best spot to soak is The Springs Resort & Spa , which has terraced tubs set along the river, but if you want to save a buck, you can also soak in the totally free “ hippy dip ” across the river.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado’s most visited national park. It is just over an hour’s drive from downtown Denver and is unique in that it spans the Continental Divide. In the fall, the Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road are particularly colorful drives, while mountaineers come to summit Longs Peak, the park’s tallest mountain.

Remember when I said that Colorado was home to “alternative towns that dance to the beat of their own drum”? I was talking about Crestone, a tiny town of just under 150 people that is committed to sustainable living and spirituality. Throughout the town, you’ll find a variety of off-the-grid homes and spiritual centers and sites like the Crestone Mountain Zen Center and the Tashi Gomang Stupa .

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

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Just west of Denver, you’ll spot giant red rocks that seem to shoot out from the earth. This rock structure was long ago harnessed to create a natural amphitheater that has become world renowned for its unique sound quality. In fact, playing at Red Rocks has become a goal performance for many big-name artists.

Glenwood Springs

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When it comes to mountain towns with all-around appeal, it’s hard to top Glenwood Springs. The “larger” mountain town (just over 10,000 people), is set on the interstate making it easy to access from Denver (2.5 hours away). The town has three developed hot springs, a mountaintop adventure park that can only be accessed by gondola, and a river that provides opportunities for paddlers and fishers.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

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The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of those places that you might not expect to find in Colorado. The park protects a natural phenomenon: giant mounds of sand that were collected at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and the mysterious “surge flow” of Medano Creek . 

Crested Butte

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Like every other Colorado mountain town , Crested Butte has wonderful hiking and biking trails and great skiing, but what sets it apart is the abundance of wildflowers that earned it the nickname “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” There’s even an annual 10-day festival celebrating the blooms.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

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In the dry, red rock canyons of southwestern Colorado is this archaeological wonder. The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument encompasses a whopping 174,000 acres that contain clues to the daily lives of ancient Indigenous people, including more than 8,300 recorded villages, cliff dwellings, shrines, kivas, petroglyphs, and other historic sites. 

Steamboat Springs

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Steamboat Springs is yet another Colorado hot spring and ski town, but unlike the others on this list, Steamboat has a unique American West feel. Here, cowboy hats are just as common as Chacos, and the landscape lends itself to people who like to get outside. There are two ski areas, geothermal hot springs, and a state park directly to the north. 

Denver Union Station

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Many cities have a train station, but Denver has turned their transportation hub into the heart of the city. The 1914 Beaux-Arts train station , which is also a historic landmark, consists of 10 chef-owned restaurants and bars, a boutique hotel, and a handful of unique shops (and there are four bee hives on the roof). Once you’ve shopped and eaten your fair share, you can hop on the bus, light rail, or Amtrak to your next destination. 

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The city of Durango is perched where the mountains meet the desert, providing a landscape that has a little of everything. There are hot springs, ski areas, mountain biking trails, and plenty of fun to be had on the Animas River that runs through town. In the summer, a top to-do is riding the 19th-century Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango to Silverton, Colorado over a mountain pass.  

Dinosaur National Monument

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Like dinos? Colorado has you covered. At this national monument , which straddles the Colorado-Utah border and passes into both states, there’s endless proof that dinosaurs once roamed the Colorado landscape. The monument includes dinosaur remains that are embedded in the rocks, petroglyphs from early humans, and plenty of outdoorsy things to do including river rafting, hiking, and camping.

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Boulder is a college town with easy access to Denver and the mountains. To the west of the city sit the Flatirons, rock formations lined with trails, while the downtown neighborhood of Pearl Street Mall has everything from art galleries to inventive eats and unique boutiques.

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21 of the best things to do in Colorado

Aug 27, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the beauty of Colorado with these top things to do © gcosoveanu / Getty Images

A four-season state with almost unlimited sunny days, Colorado boasts 28 top-ranked ski resorts, the most reliable snowfall of any state, towering dunes, white water rapids, and 39,000 miles of hiking trails . Plus 42 state parks and four national parks including Rocky Mountain National Park , the country’s fifth most popular national park.

But Colorado is more than just a paradise for outdoorsy types . Besides offering adrenaline rushes and Instagram moments, it’s also known for its layers of history, vibrant art and music scene, cowboy culture, cool cities, charming mountain towns, and tasty craft brews. Here are 21 of the best things to do in a state that has it all.

1. Enjoy the fall colors in Aspen

Just beyond the cowboy-meets-Hollywood glam of Aspen , the twin Maroon Bell mountains rise dramatically over a long mirrored lake. Surrounded by thick aspen groves, fall brings a sea of fluttering yellow and orange leaves. It’s sublime, a dream, and one of the best places in the state to see fall colors .

Planning tip: The trail near the lake can get crowded this time of year, especially in late September when the leaves are at their peak. Arrive before 8 am for a parking spot, some solitude, and the best chance at seeing wildlife. Otherwise, take the shuttle from town and hike deep into the aspen groves towards Crater Lake to take in the beauty without the crowd.

2. Explore ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde National Park is a one-of-a-kind place, the largest and best-preserved Native American archaeological site in the US. Nestled in a stunning landscape of canyons and mesas near the  Four Corners region, Mesa Verde is home to more than 5000 Ancestral Puebloan sites that developed over hundreds of years before being abruptly abandoned in 1300CE for reasons still unknown.

What remains is one of the most exhilarating adventures in the West: clambering down ladders, crawling through tight tunnels, and peering into elaborate cliff dwellings, all to puzzle over what life was once like here.

3. Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

The number one tourist draw in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park  is quintessentially Colorado, attracting over 4.5 million visitors a year. Every view is a picture postcard: a vast landscape of soaring granite peaks (77 of its mountains top 12,000 feet), 147 shimmering lakes, flower-filled meadows, and lush alpine forests.

But it’s no secret that RMNP can get jam-packed, especially in summer. Lose the crowds by leaving the roadside viewpoints and lacing up your hiking boots instead.

The park has 300 miles of trails catering to all levels of ability and ambition, from an easy stroll around Bear Lake to an epic trek up Longs Peak. Impressive vistas and perfect solitude also can be found on hundreds of thousands of acres of backcountry, areas home to herds of elk, scattered bighorn sheep, black bears and more.

4. Visit the ghost town of St Elmo

Following a bumpy dirt road to the abandoned mining settlement of St Elmo, it’s easy to imagine the prospectors who plied this same roadway, following tales of precious metal found deep in the Rockies. Tucked into the base of the Collegiate Peaks, St Elmo is Colorado’s best-preserved ghost town.

More than 40 buildings are still standing, most dating to the 1880s when the town hit its apex. Wandering past the saloon, billiards hall, courthouse and jail, visitors get a peek into Colorado’s past, when gold and silver ruled these hills. It serves as a modern-day reminder of the quick riches and busted dreams of the past, the making and breaking of the West. 

5. Throw back a Colorado craft brew

Colorado takes its beer seriously, treating craft brewing like a high art. Almost any town you visit – from tiny Del Norte to beer-centric Fort Collins – has a favorite local brew or two (or 20). One thing’s for sure: you won’t go thirsty for an IPA in Colorado.

Planning tip: If you’re here in September, try to score tickets to the  Great American Beer Festival . Held in Denver, the festival draws more than 1000 master brewers from across the nation, vying for Best of Show medals in categories like Best Coffee Beer, Best Barrel-Aged Strong Beer and many more. Best of all is the camaraderie of you and 60,000 beer buddies, all tasting outstanding beers one ounce at a time.

6. Catch a concert at Red Rocks

There’s something about attending a concert at  Red Rocks : the sounds of instruments and song, the sight of people dancing, an umbrella of dark sky above, and the iconic 400-foot-high red sandstone monoliths standing guard on either side. Once a sacred gathering place of the Ute tribe, today Red Rocks is world-renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning beauty, a one-of-a-kind amphitheater.

It’s no surprise big-name bands like The Beatles, U2, Jimi Hendrix, and The Grateful Dead have played and recorded albums here and that the venue continues to draw the world’s best musicians and performers. Just 15 miles from Denver, it’s easily accessible, too.

Planning tip: Do like locals do and catch the sunset before the show.

7. Soak in Glenwood Hot Springs

Perched at the end of a gorgeous canyon at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, present-day Glenwood Hot Springs have been treasured for their healing properties for centuries. Long before the arrival of Europeans, the Ute bathed in these same steamy thermal waters, which they called yampah (great medicine).

Today, a historic resort sits on the site, the hot springs pumping out 3.5 million gallons of mineral water a day, flowing through two pools, one a whopping 400ft long.

Planning tip:  Temperatures range from 93°F to 104°F, warm enough to soak in even on a snowy January day. Bring your swimsuit and, if need be, your ski hat.

8. Drive the Million Dollar Highway

Deep in the San Juan Mountains, the Million Dollar Highway connects the towns of Ouray and Silverton, is a mind-blowingly scenic drive, and one of Colorado’s best road trips . Twenty-five miles of hairpin turns and tight S-bends cut through the Uncompahgre Gorge, whose steep mountainsides loom large and close, rising into lofty, mist-shrouded peaks, while the valley floor lies far below, dotted with fir trees and wildflowers.

Planning tip: Drive with caution. The road is formidable, even in good weather, and the lack of guardrails doesn’t help. Take advantage of pullouts. The Red Mountain Pass (11,018ft) is a favorite for its 360-degree views.

9. Hula hoop in Telluride

It supposedly all started back in the '90s when Colorado ski bum band String Cheese Incident started chucking hula hoops into the crowd at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Festival-goers turned the toys into dance partners, and the fad stuck. You can count on a large contingent of "hoopers" at every Telluride Bluegrass Festival show.

It’s just one of the many odd-ball pleasures of this amazing celebration of folk music and mountain life, held in  Telluride every summer and drawing big-name bands and thousands of revelers. Telluride itself is stunningly beautiful, nestled in a narrow box canyon, surrounded on three sides by rugged peaks and even a waterfall. It's not easy to get to, but it's well worth the effort.

10. Surf down the tallest dunes in North America

Great Sand Dunes National Park sits like a surreal work of art next to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, an undulating dune field covering more than 30 square miles, its sandy peaks reaching hundreds of feet above the brush-covered valley floor. Climbing the dunes can be slow going – one step forward and a half step back in the ever-shifting sand – but that makes sand surfing down all the sweeter.

Special wood boards make for the best ride, and they can be rented from the  Great Sand Dunes Oasis just outside the park or in nearby Alamosa. Sport your ski goggles and long socks, if you got ‘em – the sand gets everywhere.

Planning tip: If you’re here in late spring, count yourself lucky. The Medano Creek emerges temporarily alongside the dunes, creating a beach for water play, tubing, and, of course, sandcastle-making.

11. Discover the Mile High City’s street art

Unexpected and fabulous, Denver ’s trendiest neighborhood, RiNo (River North) – a one-time industrial wasteland that's now the heart of cool – is draped in murals covering every sort of surface, from restaurant doorways and parking lot walls to alleyways, power boxes, and garage doors.

Bright, opinionated, and ever-changing, the artwork stops you in your tracks, speaking volumes about Denver’s diversity of people and thought, and its history and day-to-day life. Prepare to be wowed.

12. Paddle the Arkansas River

Brace yourself for icy waters as you paddle into a roaring set of waves on the Arkansas River, one of the longest and wildest rivers in the state. With more than 150 miles of open water running from Leadville to the scenic Royal Gorge, the Arkansas has everything from extreme rapids to mellow ripples and includes the iconic class-II run through Browns Canyon National Monument.

Planning tip: The best paddling happens between late May and early July. Pick up a trip in Buena Vista or Cañon City.  

13. Ski Vail, the state's best ski resort

You might think  Vail is merely a playground for the rich and famous, and not a serious ski resort. Think again: beyond the glitz and glam (and shocking prices), Vail is truly one of the world’s finest ski resorts, boasting more than 5000 skiable acres, 195 trails, and some of the best on- and off-piste terrain anywhere.

The front side is a paradise of silky corduroy – Vail’s groomers are artists indeed – ranging from mellow greens to long rowdy black diamonds like Blue Ox. But don’t miss the backside, especially the legendary Blue Sky Basin and seven – count ‘em, seven – bowls. There’s so much steep ’n deep that you’ll lose track of what you’ve skied or ridden. Colorado has many outstanding ski resorts, true, but Vail will steal your heart. 

14. Touch dinosaur bones

A must-see stop for dinophiles is  Dinosaur National Monument , located in the desolate northwest corner of Colorado. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can actually reach out and touch a dinosaur skeleton, snarling in its final pose, petrified eternally in rock and stone.

Home to one the largest fossil beds in North America, the dinosaur quarry here also shows off some 1500 prehistoric bones embedded in a cliff face. You’ll see everything from allosaurus to stegosaurus.

Planning tip: Ranger-led walks, talks and tours explain the site, and a bunch of hands-on exhibits add to the fun.

15. Summit a fourteener

Standing at the peak of a 14,000-foot mountain, taking in the view from the top of the world, is practically a rite of passage in Colorado. The state’s 50-plus " fourteeners " offer access and challenge to all levels of hikers, from those reachable only with technical climbing expertise to the two peaks with roads right to the top.

Drive to the top of Pikes Peak , hike the 3-mile trail to Quandary Peak near Breckenridge in Summit County or scale Mt Elbert (the tallest of them all). No matter, they all deliver big.

Travel the old-fashioned way to Pikes Peak aboard the cog train . One of only two cog railways in the U.S., it first carried passengers in 1892. Based in Manitou Springs and just six miles from Colorado Springs .

16. Sport your Stetson at the National Western Stock Show

Saddle up for one of the country’s biggest stock shows – the  National Western Stock Show – a Denver tradition since 1906. Held every January, come here for more than 20 rodeos, 15,000 farm animals, dancing horses, dog shows and even yoga with baby goats.

Don’t miss the iconic kick-off parade, when dozens of Longhorn cattle are herded right through downtown Denver, high heels and power suits giving way to cowboy hats, chaps and impressive belt buckles.

17. Travel like it’s 1882 on the Durango and Silverton Railroad

Little has changed in the Rocky Mountains in the 142 years since the Durango & Silverton Railroad first steamed along steep cliff edges as it followed the Animas River far below.  

It’s still all majestically rugged and lush with deep forests and panoramic vistas. Deer sightings are frequent, moose, bear, and mountain goats perched precariously on impossibly narrow rock shelves less so but not uncommon. For the most spectacular views, step onto the outdoor observation deck on the back of the train.

The family-friendly trip loops between Durango and Silverton . The latter is a former mining town which at 9318 feet above sea level is among the highest in the U.S. 

Reimagined now with visitors in mind, there’s a two-hour layover as well as the opportunity to overnight and return on a later train. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from a wide range of activities— whitewater rafting , camping, mountain biking , and off-road adventures . Those wanting to literally delve deep into history can tour a mine or dine at the luxe Grand Imperial Hotel , which opened in 1884.

18. Sample Colorado wines in Grand Valley

Among the most elevated wine regions in the world, the Grand Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is home to over a quarter of the wineries in the state. Spanning over 75,000 acres along the Colorado River and sheltered by Grand Mesa, the world's largest flattop mountain, Grand Valley encompasses two-thirds of Colorado vineyard acreage. 

Bordered by the Rocky Mountains to the east and centered around Grand Junction and Palisade , it's a great place with more than 30 wineries to explore .  All are set amidst stunning red rocks, deep canyons, natural arches, lakes, high desert landscapes, orchards , and the stunning McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area .

19. Explore one of the country’s most haunted hotels

Author Stephen King stayed at The Stanley Hotel , had a bad dream, and was inspired to write his bestselling novel, The Shining, which was made into a blockbuster movie. 

Not afraid of ghosts? Then take The Shining Tour at the Stanley, considered one of the most haunted places in America . Highlights of the guided tour include an ax from the movie and a visit to the Shining suite For the full ghostly immersion, stay the night in rooms 401, 407, 428, and 217, where King stayed–they’re said to rate high on paranormal activity.

You don't have to be a ghost hunter to enjoy the hotel's luxurious accommodations, architectural elegance, excellent culinary offerings, and historic ambiance. Open since 1909 at an elevation of 7500 feet, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and located in Estes Park , the Stanley is five miles from Rocky Mountain National Park . Choose from various outdoor recreation options: ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

20. Enjoy the ultimate in Wild West experiences at the C Lazy U Ranch

Ever hankered to go on a cattle drive? Sing songs around the campfire? Or saddle up for a guided tour on horseback through meadows of wildflowers and sage into the pine forests of the Rocky Mountains? Yet want to do so in comfort and style? We've got the answer for you.

The 8500-acre C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, Colorado offers ranch life, outdoor recreation, and such amenities as gourmet Western fare, an on-site sommelier, deluxe accommodations, and plenty of activities for kids and adults. A year-round destination, outdoor activities also include ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Local detour : Winter Park and Grand Lake are just a short drive from the ranch. 

Planning Tip : Check out this article on planning a dude ranch vacation.

21. Celebrate all things elk at Elktober in Estes Park

Hundreds of elk call the beautiful mountain village of Estes Park home each fall, frequenting its downtown streets and parks. The annual, three-day family-friendly event has been celebrated here since 1999 at the end of September. The free festival features food, vendors, music, bugling contests, and Native American traditions such as dancing and storytelling.

The Elk Fest weekend starts with the Rut Run 5K (3.1mi) race along a scenic course of river views, brilliant fall colors, and chances for elk encounters. 

Local tip : Remember, this is a celebration of rut season and the bull elks are very territorial. Keep your distance and use your zoom lens.

This article was first published Jun 18, 2021 and updated Aug 27, 2024.

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Colorado Springs   Travel Guide

Courtesy of CL_Reflections | Getty Images

Why Go To Colorado Springs

It's easy to see why Katharine Lee Bates was inspired to write the lyrics to the famous patriotic ballad "America the Beautiful" from Colorado Springs. Look in one direction and you'll see the majestic "purple mountains:" the Colorado Rockies. Shift your eyes in the other direction to find yourself gazing out at "amber waves of grain:" the Great Plains. The beautiful scenery isn't the only reason to head to this charming town. Colorado Springs is also home institutions such as the  Air Force Academy  and the  Olympic & Paralympic Training Center . And over the years, it's become a cross section of personalities. Take to the streets and share the sidewalks with budding politicos, young families, art lovers and more: All stake their claim on this portion of America the Beautiful.

Colorado's second-largest city has cultivated a stellar reputation, continually earning a spot on the U.S. News Best Places to Live ranking. It's also well-known for being a central political and religious hub, but over the past couple of years Colorado Springs has eased up on the religious rhetoric, even adopting a hint of the laid-back vibe that Colorado visitors normally associate with  Boulder  or  Telluride  (to experience this side of the Colorado Springs area, head to nearby  Manitou Springs ). But most visitors don't come here to sample the political and social discourse – they come for the all-encompassing views found at the top of  Pikes Peak , the towering cliffs that make up the  Garden of the Gods  and the blushing cliffs at  Red Rock Canyon .

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• # 4 in Best Cheap Summer Vacations
• # 13 in Top 19 Cheap Family Vacations
• # 13 in Best Cheap Couples Getaways for 2024

See All 6 Rankings

Best of Colorado Springs

Best hotels in colorado springs.

• # 1 in The Broadmoor
• # 2 in The Lodge at Flying Horse
• # 3 in The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel

Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs

• # 1 in Garden of the Gods
• # 2 in Pikes Peak
• # 3 in Royal Gorge

Popular Tours

Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway (November thru April)

(8 reviews)

from $ 90.00

Sightseeing Jeep Tour in Garden of the Gods

(157 reviews)

from $ 95.00

Pikes Peak Jeep Tour

(411 reviews)

from $ 105.00

Colorado Springs Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Colorado Springs are from March to May and from September to October. That's when you'll find slightly cooler (yet still comfortable) temperatures as well as fewer crowds and bargain rates. Another perk for fall visitors: the foliage. Expect to see the surrounding mountains speckled with bright reds, oranges and yellows. Warm summer weather draws visitors in droves, leading to price hikes at hotels and congested attractions .

Weather in Colorado Springs

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You will need a car The city does operate a public bus system, but getting to some of the area's most popular attractions will be easier with your own set of wheels.

Note the altitude You may experience dizziness or nausea as you adjust to Colorado Springs' high altitude (approximately 6,035 feet). Drink lots of water and avoid strenuous activity (like hiking or zip lines ) for the first few days.

Pack layers Thanks to its mild climate, Colorado Springs doesn't endure the same harsh winter temps of its neighbors. If you're visiting in winter, pack a warm coat, but also bring a T-shirt and shorts in case you're in town for one of the city's unusually warm days.

How to Save Money in Colorado Springs

Don't go in summer  This is Colorado Springs' peak tourism season, and prices are at their highest. You'll find brisk weather and cheaper rates if you visit in late spring or early fall.

Limit the use of your car  You will need a car to get to less central points of interest , but you can save money on gas and parking by exploring neighborhoods in the downtown area on foot.

Take advantage of free attractions  Save some dough by admiring the  Garden of the Gods  or wandering around  Manitou Springs .

What to Eat

Colorado Springs has its fair share of global cuisines, but it's the American and Mexican restaurants that are the biggest crowd pleasers in this mountain town. University of Colorado Colorado Springs students rave about  Shuga's , a casual restaurant and bar that's known for its creative sandwiches and spicy coconut shrimp soup.  King's Chef Diner  is another local favorite that's been serving up its famed green chili since 1956. Order it on eggs, on cheeseburgers or have it in a bowl with all the fixings. If you're craving a beer, head to  Phantom Canyon , a brewery-meets-restaurant that pairs its brews with tavern classics like burgers, wings and homemade pretzels served with beer cheese. To start your day, head to Urban Egg  for a hearty breakfast. This beloved Colorado chain dishes up everything from eggs Benedict to pancakes to toasts. When you want a date night or to splurge for an evening, try The Rabbit Hole . It wins rave reviews for its ambiance and its rabbit meatloaf.

Getting Around Colorado Springs

The best way to get around Colorado Springs is by car, since some of the city's most popular things to do – including the famous  Pikes Peak  – cannot be reached on foot from the city center. However, if you plan on spending the day in downtown Colorado Springs or nearby  Manitou Springs , your own two feet and a comfy pair of shoes should suffice. You can rent a vehicle in town or at the Colorado Springs Airport (COS), which is located about 11 miles east of central Colorado Springs. The city also features an affordable public bus system with more than 20 routes, many of which start or end in the downtown area. But bus services here better serve commuters than they do tourists, offering reliable, yet limited, weekend service. Another option is to swap four wheels for two: Many Colorado Springs streets boast bike lanes and the area also shelters nearly 200 miles of paved and unpaved trails. The city also has a bike-share program called PikeRide, where you can borrow a bike for as little as $2.

Royal Gorge is 10 miles long and 1,200 feet deep, carved into the landscape by the Arkansas River.

Explore More of Colorado Springs

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Police looking for suspects after woman shot in NE Colorado Springs

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - Colorado Springs Police say they received reports of a shooting around 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 31 in the 5400 block of New Car Drive. When officers arrived on the scene they found a woman with an apparent gunshot wound.

CSPD told KRDO 13 her injuries were serious but non-life-threatening.

Officers searched the surrounding area but weren't able to locate any suspects. No arrests have been made.

CSPD says they are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident including developing suspect information as part of our ongoing investigation.

KRDO 13 will continue to follow this developing story.

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Michael Logerwell

Michael Logerwell is a weekend anchor and member of the KRDO13 Investigates team. Learn more about him here.

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How Will the Nationwide Hotel Strike Affect My Labor Day Plans?

Though hotel chains say they’ll continue to operate normally, travelers could see disruptions as employees walked off the job in cities from Boston to Honolulu. Here’s what to know.

By Derek M. Norman

Over the busy Labor Day weekend, at least 10,000 unionized front-desk workers, housekeepers and other employees at 24 hotel properties across the country walked off the job on Sunday after failing to come to an agreement in contract negotiations.

The strikes — which as of Sunday afternoon were affecting some Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott hotels, and one Fairmont property, in Boston; San Francisco; Seattle; San Jose, Calif.; Honolulu; Kauai, Hawaii; San Diego; and Greenwich, Conn. — were scheduled to last two to three days in each city, just as many travelers’ holiday weekend plans were in full swing. More hotel workers in other cities could also soon announce strikes.

The strike comes as members of the UNITE HERE union at Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Omni properties across the country have been engaged in contentious talks since at least May.

The affected hotels say they plan to stay open, perhaps with modified services, but they may not always notify travelers that a strike is happening. So inquire ahead of time, or you may be surprised to find a spirited picket line in front of your hotel when you arrive.

Here’s what else you need to know.

There’s a strike at the hotel where I have a reservation. What should I do?

First, call the hotel and ask to speak to a manager to confirm that a strike is taking place at that property. UNITE HERE has also created a website, FairHotel.org , that offers an updated map of which properties are experiencing labor disputes. Ask the manager which services are being affected by the strike, and ask about the hotel’s cancellation policy.

Then decide if you still want to stay at the hotel.

Besides weighing the effect on services, consider your feelings about the dispute itself, said Bjorn Hanson, an adjunct professor at the New York University Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality. Some travelers like to support the business and keep their reservation at the property, Dr. Hanson said. Others prefer to support the striking workers by not crossing a picket line.

If you choose not to stay at the affected hotel, he said, you should first book new accommodations and then call your original hotel as soon as possible to cancel.

In the case of past strikes, Dr. Hanson said, “Individual hotels have some discretion, but the hotel company policy was: Whatever our cancellation policy is, is the policy we will maintain during the strike. So at the very least, that is what the regular, average traveler should keep in mind and plan around,” he said.

The cancellation policy at Hilton , Hyatt , Marriott and Omni hotels generally depends on your specific rate and dates of your stay, so you’ll need to look up your reservation on their app or website.

Will my hotel stay open during the strike?

In general, hotels say they are prepared to operate without disruption.

Representatives for Hyatt, Hilton and Omni all said that they had contingency plans to minimize any strikes’ impact on hotel operations. Marriott did not respond to request for comment.

While the chains would not reveal details of those plans, it is likely that they would use nonunion employees, Dr. Hanson said. They might also, for example, substitute a grab-and-go buffet for table service. And outside contractors may be hired to perform services that hotel staff would typically perform.

During the most recent major hotel strike, last summer in Los Angeles, thousands of hotel workers walked off the job just as travelers were gearing up for the Fourth of July. That first strike was resolved after three days . Sporadic walkouts at other properties throughout the summer affected housekeeping services for some guests and caused disruptions after event organizers canceled events .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the number of hotel properties that were on strike as of Sunday afternoon. It was 24, not more than 25.

How we handle corrections

Derek M. Norman is a senior news assistant for the International section of The Times. More about Derek M. Norman

Watch CBS News

Approved vehicles can now cross Highway 50 bridge after closure on Colorado's Western Slope

By Jennifer McRae

Updated on: August 30, 2024 / 12:40 PM MDT / CBS Colorado

Just in time for the busy Labor Day weekend holiday, the Colorado Department of Transportation has released a list of approved vehicles that will be allowed to cross both the US Highway 50 and Lake Fork bridges. From Friday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 2, travelers will be able to cross from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. in a one-way alternating traffic formation. 

The Highway 50 bridge over the Blue Mesa Reservoir closed to traffic in April when concerns arose about whether driving across was safe. Repairs have been underway since then, impacting a significant number of residents and businesses.

CDOT said as work progresses, heavier vehicles and vehicles towing trailers will eventually be allowed across the bridge with the goal of opening travel to all legal loads by mid-October.

Now, CDOT has released a list of vehicles that will be allowed to use the bridges through at least mid-October:

• Passenger vehicles
• Pickup trucks
• Motorcycles
• Emergency vehicles, ambulances and fire trucks
• School buses
• 3/4 ton or smaller pickups with bumper pull trailers (boats, campers, side-by-sides)
• Compact Class C motorhomes
• Small single-rear axle box trucks 

CDOT stated the following vehicles must use County Road 26 as a detour:

• All Class A motorhomes
• Larger Class C motorhomes
• Semi-trucks
• Commercial buses
• Pickup trucks with a gooseneck trailer or a 5th-wheel camper or trailer

Additional Information from CDOT:

Recommended Alternate Routes for US 50 

The recommended detour route for through traffic (those not stopping in Montrose, Gunnison, Crested Butte, Hinsdale County or the surrounding areas) is via I-70 to the north or US 160 to the south. Access the  recommended detour route on COtrip here . CDOT understands the inconvenience that this creates and is rapidly evaluating options to improve options for residents, businesses, and travelers on the western slope.

The northern route is 354 miles and requires approximately six hours of travel time. The southern route is 331 miles and requires nearly seven hours of travel time. CDOT and local partners are exploring whether it is feasible at this point in the season to clear local seasonal routes that may be able to significantly reduce the detour time for local travelers. 

Resources for Information & Updates:

• Call 970-648-4423 for the US 50 Bridge Closure Hotline, it will be staffed 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; leave a voicemail for a call back at other times.
• You can email questions to  [email protected] .
• To sign up for text and or email updates on all Gunnison County roadwork messaging, please visit  https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/list.aspx to select what updates you'd like to start receiving. For road updates, select for Travel Advisories from the List.

Jennifer McRae is a digital media producer for CBS Colorado with more than 25 years of experience in news. Jennifer is part of the digital team recognized for excellence for Best Website several times by the Colorado Broadcasters Association.

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