[List] 25 Incredible Things You Need to Experience in Colorado

Key Takeaways:

• Colorado offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stunning natural landscapes.
• From thrilling mountain hikes to vibrant city festivals, Colorado is a state that never disappoints.
• Whether you’re exploring hidden gems or iconic landmarks, Colorado has something for everyone.

Colorado, known for its breathtaking mountain views and outdoor adventures, is a dream destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With the majestic Rocky Mountains stretching across much of the state, Colorado offers some of the best hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching opportunities in the country. This state, which became a part of the United States in 1876, has a rich history, from its Native American roots to the gold rush era, which helped shape its vibrant cities and towns. Over time, Colorado has developed into a hub for outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and innovation.

What makes Colorado so unique is its combination of stunning landscapes, thriving cultural scenes, and a laid-back yet adventurous vibe. Whether you’re hiking up a 14,000-foot peak, attending a live concert in Denver, or relaxing in a hot spring, Colorado offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler. Its diverse geography—from the towering Rocky Mountains to the expansive plains—means there is always something new to discover. People from all walks of life are drawn to Colorado’s natural beauty, world-class outdoor activities, and its friendly, welcoming communities. It’s a state that promises adventure at every corner.

Here are 25 things to do in Colorado:

#1 Hike to the Top of Mount Elbert: Reach the highest point in Colorado for stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

#2 Relax in Glenwood Hot Springs: Unwind in the world’s largest hot spring pool, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

#3 Visit Rocky Mountain National Park: Explore alpine lakes, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails in this iconic national park.

#4 Take a Scenic Drive on the Trail Ridge Road: Experience one of the highest paved roads in North America, with panoramic mountain vistas.

#5 Go Skiing in Aspen: Hit the slopes in one of Colorado’s most famous ski resorts known for its luxury and world-class facilities.

#6 Explore the Garden of the Gods: Walk among stunning red rock formations in this unique park near Colorado Springs.

#7 Visit the Colorado State Capitol in Denver: Tour the historical state capitol building and take in views of the city from its dome.

#8 Attend the Telluride Film Festival: Enjoy world-class films, stunning mountain scenery, and vibrant festivals in this charming town.

#9 Go Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River: Experience thrilling rapids and stunning canyon views on one of the state’s best rivers for rafting.

#10 Visit the Denver Art Museum: Explore contemporary and Native American art exhibits in this top cultural institution in Denver.

#11 Hike to Hanging Lake: Take a short but challenging hike to see one of Colorado’s most scenic and iconic waterfalls.

#12 Tour the Coors Brewery: Take a guided tour through one of the largest and most famous breweries in the country in Golden, Colorado.

#13 See the Cliff Dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park: Discover the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

#14 Explore the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: Walk across one of the highest suspension bridges in the world, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River.

#15 Attend the Great American Beer Festival in Denver: Enjoy sampling craft beers and attending events at the country’s largest beer festival.

#16 Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Vail: Soar above the beautiful Rocky Mountains with a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the landscape.

#17 Discover the Sand Dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park: Explore the tallest sand dunes in North America, with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

#18 Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Learn about the rich history of Colorado Springs, from Native American heritage to the gold rush era.

#19 Go Mountain Biking in Crested Butte: Ride on the famous mountain trails in one of Colorado’s most popular biking destinations.

#20 See the Maroon Bells: Take a hike around these iconic twin peaks, known for their stunning reflections in nearby lakes.

#21 Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: Experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains on a historic narrow-gauge railroad.

#22 Explore the Art Galleries in Santa Fe: Walk through art-filled streets and enjoy the thriving arts scene in Colorado’s Santa Fe arts district.

#23 Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison: Discover the stunning depth and rugged beauty of this dramatic national park.

#24 Go Horseback Riding in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area: Experience the wild beauty of the Colorado wilderness on a horseback riding adventure.

#25 Enjoy the Colorado Balloon Classic: Watch colorful hot air balloons take flight during this popular annual festival in Colorado Springs.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in Colorado?

If you’re looking for both free and paid events in Colorado, PlanMyWeekend.ai is a great resource to help you find the latest happenings. Whether you’re searching for free local festivals, outdoor concerts, or paid attractions like guided tours and performances, PlanMyWeekend.ai has a comprehensive list of events throughout Colorado. The platform allows you to easily plan your weekend by offering a variety of options to fit any budget, so you can make the most out of your Colorado adventure.

Final Thoughts

Colorado is a state that offers something for everyone, from epic mountain adventures and natural wonders to vibrant cities filled with culture and history. Whether you’re hiking a 14er, attending a world-class festival, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Colorado never disappoints. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to help you discover the best events, make your plans, and ensure you have a weekend filled with unforgettable experiences.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai