12 Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado (Your Colorado Bucket List)

Colorado’s got a little bit of everything—mountain views, outdoor adventures, and small towns with big charm. If you’re looking for the best places to explore, you’re in the right spot.

This list covers 12 amazing places to visit in Colorado you won’t want to miss, whether you’re out for a hike, a scenic drive, or just taking in the scenery.

No matter what brings you to Colorado, these spots are the ones to put on your list!

Colorado National Monument is a stunning, lesser-known park filled with dramatic red rock canyons, towering sandstone monoliths, and sweeping desert landscapes.

Established in 1911, it covers over 20,500 acres, preserving a section of Colorado’s rugged high desert terrain.

• Location: Western Colorado, near Grand Junction.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather; avoid peak summer heat by visiting early or late in the day.

Colorado National Monument / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado

• Drive the Rim Rock Drive

This scenic 23-mile route offers incredible views as it winds through canyons and climbs up to the top of the mesa, where overlooks like Artist’s Point and Cold Shivers Point provide unforgettable photo ops.

The road has multiple pullouts, giving you easy access to views of iconic landmarks like Independence Monument.

• Hike Monument Canyon Trail to Independence Monument

This trail gives you a close-up view of one of the park’s most famous features, Independence Monument, a 450-foot sandstone spire.

The 6-mile round-trip trail is moderate but includes some elevation gain, however, it will reward you with expansive canyon views and up-close encounters with unique rock formations.

PRO TIP: Start early in the day to avoid the heat, and bring plenty of water since shade is limited.

• Explore the Devils Kitchen Trail

A shorter, family-friendly option, this 1-mile round-trip trail takes you to a small natural rock “room” known as Devils Kitchen.

It’s a relatively easy hike, but the narrow passage and rocky terrain make it feel like a real desert adventure.

GOOD TO KNOW: The views and formations along the way are great for photography, and it’s a popular sunset spot.

Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark in Colorado Springs, celebrated for its stunning red sandstone formations that are over 300 million years old.

This 1,367-acre public park is a geological wonder, featuring towering rock spires, dramatic balanced rocks, and scenic trails with breathtaking views of Pikes Peak.

Opened as a free park in 1909, it draws millions of visitors each year for its natural beauty and accessibility.

• Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round; mornings and weekdays are ideal for fewer crowds.

Garden of the Gods / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Hike the Perkins Central Garden Trail

This easy, 1.5-mile round-trip trail starts at the main parking lot and takes you into the park’s most iconic areas. The paved path passes famous formations like Kissing Camels and Balanced Rock, making it perfect for families and visitors of all abilities.

• Scenic Drives: Juniper Way and Garden Drive

For those who prefer to take in the views by car, these two scenic drives offer incredible perspectives of the park’s rock formations. Juniper Way loops through the heart of the park, while Garden Drive provides stunning photo opportunities with Pikes Peak as a backdrop. Several pullouts along the way make it easy to stop and take in the scenery.

• Hike the Siamese Twins Trail

This short 0.5-mile loop trail is a favorite for its unique rock formation that frames a perfect view of Pikes Peak through a natural window. The trail is an easy walk and offers a quieter experience compared to some of the park’s busier areas.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of those places that feels like it’s straight out of a dream. Imagine miles and miles of towering sand dunes that rise up to 750 feet high, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains providing the perfect backdrop.

It’s such a unique spot, with not just sand dunes, but also grasslands, wetlands, and forests.

• Location: In southern Colorado, about 35 miles east of Alamosa.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are perfect, with cooler temps and fewer crowds. Summer is pretty hot, especially in the dunes, so early mornings or late afternoons are best if you’re visiting then.

Great Sand Dunes National Park / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Hike the Dunes

Hiking up the sand dunes is a must-do experience! The views from the top are unbelievable, but be prepared for a workout! It’s not easy, but it’s so worth it. I’d recommend bringing a light pack, wearing sturdy shoes (no flip-flops), and pacing yourself as you climb. You can also hike to the top of High Dune, which gives you a perfect view of the entire area.

• Sand Sledding & Sandboarding

If you’re looking for some fun, grab a sandboard or a sled and take a run down the dunes! You can rent them from the nearby stores, or just bring your own.

• Medano Creek

In the spring, Medano Creek flows along the base of the dunes, and it’s perfect for wading and splashing around. The creek is pretty shallow, so it’s safe and fun, especially on a warm day.

Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet as it traverses Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park to Grand Lake.

Spanning 48 miles, this scenic byway offers breathtaking views of the alpine tundra, dense forests, and distant snow-capped peaks.

Built in the 1930s, the road crosses the Continental Divide and provides access to multiple pullouts, trails, and overlooks.

Its high altitude and exposure create a short travel season, as snow typically closes the road from mid-October to late May or early June.

• Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
• Best Time to Visit: Late June through September; early morning or evening for less traffic and stunning lighting.

PRO TIP: Timed entry reservations are required to enter Trail Ridge Road starting in May and ending in October between the hours of 5 am and 6 pm. You can make your reservations here.

Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountian National Park / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Stop at the Alpine Visitor Center

Located at 11,796 feet, this is the highest visitor center in the National Park System. The center offers educational exhibits on alpine ecology, a gift shop, and a café.

The short but steep Alpine Ridge Trail, known as “Huffer’s Hill,” leads to even higher views, providing a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding peaks and tundra.

• Explore the Tundra on the Rock Cut Trail

This 0.6-mile round-trip trail at the Rock Cut pullout takes you into the fragile alpine tundra, with interpretive signs along the way describing the unique plant life that survives at this elevation.

You’ll also have fantastic views of the Never Summer Mountains and can spot marmots and pikas along the trail.

• Take in the Views at Forest Canyon Overlook

This popular overlook provides jaw-dropping views of Forest Canyon and the surrounding peaks.

At over 11,000 feet, you can see the effects of glaciation and get a sense of the rugged terrain that defines the Rockies. Forest Canyon is also a great spot for spotting elk and, in summer, vibrant wildflowers.

• Pull Over at Rainbow Curve

Rainbow Curve offers sweeping views down into the valley and across to Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s famous “14ers.”

The overlook is often teeming with wildlife like elk, especially during the early morning or evening. The contrast of alpine scenery with lush valleys below is perfect for photos.

• Drive Across the Continental Divide

Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass, where water flows east to the Atlantic or west to the Pacific. This spot is a popular stop for photos, and there’s a short trail to Poudre Lake, which provides a peaceful setting and a great view of the surrounding mountains.

Mesa Verde is hands-down one of the coolest places in Colorado—and maybe the entire U.S. It’s famous for its ancient cliff dwellings, which were built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. These homes are tucked into sandstone cliffs, and seeing them up close feels like stepping back in time.

The park is massive, covering more than 52,000 acres, with over 5,000 archaeological sites. Besides the history, the views here are incredible—you can see for miles from the mesas. It’s one of those places that’s fascinating and beautiful all at once.

• Location: Near Cortez, Colorado
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, when guided tours are available.

PRO TIP: If you want to visit the famous cliff dwellings like Cliff Palace or Balcony House, you’ll need to book a guided tour. Tickets can sell out quickly, especially in summer, so it’s best to snag them online ahead of time. Keep in mind that some tours involve climbing ladders and squeezing through tight spaces—it’s an adventure, but totally worth it! You can book your tickets here.

Mesa Verde National Park / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado

• Take a Tour of Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in the park, and it’s absolutely mind-blowing to see in person. The tour lasts about an hour and includes walking through the dwelling and learning about the people who lived here. If you only have time for one tour, make it this one!

• Drive the Mesa Top Loop

This 6-mile loop is perfect if you’re short on time or want to take it easy. It’s a scenic drive with several pullouts to check out archaeological sites and amazing overlooks. Don’t miss the Square Tower House overlook—it’s one of my favorites!

• Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail

For a little exercise, this 2.4-mile loop trail is a great choice. It’s a moderately challenging hike with some rock scrambling, but the highlight is the ancient petroglyphs along the way. Plus, the views of Spruce Canyon are gorgeous.

The Bear Lake Corridor is one of the busiest spots in Rocky Mountain National Park—and for good reason. It’s packed with gorgeous hikes, alpine lakes, and stunning mountain views. Bear Lake itself is the star of the show, with its calm, reflective waters and a backdrop of Hallett Peak. Whether you’re here for a quick walk, a long hike, or just the scenery, there’s something for everyone.

• Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are perfect for hiking, but mornings are the best time to avoid crowds.

PRO TIP: Timed entry reservations are required to enter Trail Ridge Road starting in May and ending in October between the hours of 5 am and 6 pm. You can make your reservations here.

Bear Lake Corridor in Rocky Mountain National Park / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Walk Around Bear Lake

If you’re short on time or want an easy stroll, the Bear Lake Trail is perfect. This 0.8-mile loop circles the lake, giving you postcard-worthy views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. It’s flat, easy to walk, and great for all ages.

• Hike to Emerald Lake

This is my favorite hike in the corridor. It’s about 3.6 miles round trip and takes you past Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before ending at Emerald Lake. Each lake is prettier than the last, and the mountain views along the way are unbeatable.

• Check Out Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls is an easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike starting at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. The waterfall is beautiful, and the sound of rushing water surrounded by the forest is so peaceful. It’s an easy one to squeeze into your visit.

• Drive Bear Lake Road

Even if you’re not up for hiking, Bear Lake Road is worth the drive. It’s 9 miles of incredible scenery with plenty of pullouts where you can stop and take in the views. Keep an eye out for wildlife too—elk love hanging out in this area.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison isn’t like any other canyon you’ve seen—it’s steep, dramatic, and feels almost untouched.

The canyon walls rise nearly 2,700 feet above the Gunnison River, and they’re so close together in some spots that sunlight barely reaches the bottom.

The park is split into the South Rim (more accessible) and the North Rim (quieter and remote), and both sides have jaw-dropping overlooks and hiking trails.

It’s a smaller national park, which means fewer crowds and more time to soak in those views. If you’re into rugged, wild beauty, this place is a must-see.

• Location: Near Montrose, Colorado
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for hiking and drives; winter for a peaceful, snowy vibe.

PRO TIP: South Rim vs. North Rim

The South Rim is easier to get to and has the most overlooks and trails, making it a great choice for first-time visitors. If you’re up for an adventure and don’t mind gravel roads, the North Rim is quieter and feels more off-the-beaten-path.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Drive the South Rim Road

This 7-mile scenic drive is the perfect intro to the park. It has 12 overlooks where you can stop and take in the views—each one is a little different, but Painted Wall View (featuring Colorado’s tallest cliff!) is a definite highlight.

• Hike the Warner Point Nature Trail

This 1.5-mile round-trip trail at the end of the South Rim Road is short but packed with views. You’ll walk through juniper trees and end up at an overlook with a stunning perspective of the canyon and the Gunnison River below.

• Take the East Portal Road

If you’re curious about what the canyon looks like from the bottom, this steep, winding road takes you all the way down to the Gunnison River. It’s a thrilling drive (low gear is a must), and the views at the river level are completely different—peaceful and powerful at the same time.

Maroon Bells is one of those places that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. These two iconic peaks near Aspen are surrounded by beautiful alpine meadows, aspen groves that glow golden in the fall, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s no surprise that this spot is one of the most photographed places in Colorado.

• Location: Near Aspen, Colorado
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are perfect for hiking, and late September is magical for fall colors.

PRO TIP:  If you’re planning to visit between mid-May and late October, you’ll need a reservation. You can book a parking pass (which is limited) or hop on the shuttle from Aspen Highlands. The shuttle is easy, and it runs regularly throughout the day.

Maroon Bells / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado

• Stroll the Maroon Bells Scenic Trail

If you’re looking for an easy walk, this 1-mile loop is perfect. It starts near Maroon Lake and gives you jaw-dropping views of the peaks reflected in the water. It’s flat, family-friendly, and you can take your time soaking in the scenery.

• Hike to Crater Lake

Feeling up for a bit more of a challenge? The 3.6-mile round-trip trail to Crater Lake gets you closer to the Bells. The hike takes you through stunning aspen groves and rocky sections before opening up to a quiet lake right at the base of the peaks. It’s rocky in spots but totally worth it.

• Catch the Sunrise

If you’re not afraid of an early morning, watching the sunrise at Maroon Bells is something you’ll never forget. The way the first light hits the peaks and reflects on Maroon Lake is magical. It’s a photographer’s dream! Just get there early—at least 30 minutes before sunrise—because the spots by the lake fill up fast, especially in the fall.

Vail is pretty much the ultimate mountain town. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or just strolling through a picture-perfect village, Vail is perfect for anyone.

In winter, it’s all about the slopes—Vail Ski Resort is world-famous for its massive terrain and those legendary Back Bowls. In summer, the mountains transform into a playground for hiking and biking, and the wildflowers are stunning.

The town itself feels like a little slice of Europe with its Bavarian-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and cozy vibe.

• Location: Located along I-70, about two hours west of Denver.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, summer for hiking, and festivals.

PRO TIP: Parking can be tricky and expensive in town, especially during peak times. Look for free parking options on the outskirts and take the free Vail shuttle into the village—it’s super convenient and saves you the hassle.

Vail / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Hit the Slopes at Vail Ski Resort

Vail is all about skiing in the winter, and with over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, it’s got plenty to offer. From beginner runs to the iconic Back Bowls, there’s something for every skill level. Even if you don’t ski, you can take a gondola ride to enjoy the views and grab a drink at the mountaintop lodge.

• Explore Vail Village

Walking through Vail Village feels like stepping into a fairytale. You’ll find cute shops, amazing restaurants, and plenty of spots to grab a hot cocoa or an après-ski drink. Don’t miss the covered bridge—it’s one of those Instagram-worthy spots you’ll definitely want a picture of.

• Hike Booth Falls Trail

If you’re visiting in the summer, this is one of the best hikes around. It’s a 4-mile round trip with gorgeous views of the valley and a waterfall at the end. The trail is a bit steep in spots, but the scenery makes it totally worth it.

Glenwood Springs is one of my favorite spots to relax and recharge while still having plenty of adventure options.

The town sits right where the Roaring Fork River meets the Colorado River, surrounded by beautiful mountains.

It’s best known for its incredible hot springs, but there’s so much more to do here.

Whether you’re hiking to Hanging Lake, soaking in the hot springs, or trying out some river rafting, it’s the kind of place that feels like a mini-vacation even if you’re just passing through.

• Location: Off I-70 between Vail and Grand Junction.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for outdoor adventures; winter for quiet hot spring getaways.

Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado 

• Soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

This is the world’s largest hot springs pool, and it’s amazing. The pool is massive, so even if it’s busy, it doesn’t feel overcrowded. There’s also a smaller, hotter pool if you’re looking for serious relaxation. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

• Hike to Hanging Lake

This iconic Colorado hike is only about 1.2 miles each way, but it’s steep, so take your time. The reward at the top is worth it—Hanging Lake looks like something out of a postcard, with its turquoise water and waterfalls.

PRO TIP: If you’re planning to hike to Hanging Lake (and you should!), you’ll need a reservation, which you can book online.

• Ride the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Gondola

This isn’t your typical theme park. It’s perched on top of a mountain, and the gondola ride alone is worth it for the views. Once you’re up there, you can tour the caves or try the thrill rides if you’re feeling adventurous (the canyon swing is not for the faint of heart!).

Driving up Pikes Peak Highway is one of those classic Colorado experiences you just have to try.

This scenic drive takes you all the way to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s famous “14ers” (mountains over 14,000 feet).

The road winds through forests, past alpine lakes, and eventually up into the tundra where the views are just incredible. It’s not just about getting to the top—there are so many great stops along the way.

• Location: Near Colorado Springs, Colorado. The entrance is about 20 minutes west of town.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the clearest weather; mornings are best to avoid afternoon storms.

PRO TIP: You’ll need a timed-entry reservation to drive the highway, which you can book online in advance. Make sure to snag your spot early, especially in the summer or on weekends, as slots fill up fast.

Crystal Reservoir on Pikes Peak Highway / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado

• Summit Views and the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center

Reaching the 14,115-foot summit is a highlight, and the views from the top are unreal—you can see for miles! Don’t miss the Summit Visitor Center, where you can warm up with their famous donuts (yes, donuts at 14,000 feet!). The air is thin up here, so take it slow and drink plenty of water.

• Crystal Reservoir

This peaceful spot near the start of the highway is perfect for a quick stop. The reservoir reflects the surrounding mountains beautifully, making it a great place for photos or a picnic. There’s even a visitor center with info about the area and clean restrooms.

• Devil’s Playground

This area gets its name from the way lightning bounces around the rocks during storms, but don’t worry—it’s also a great spot to stop on your way up. There’s a pullout here where you can park and take in the unique rock formations and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re up for a short hike, you can explore the area a bit, but watch the weather closely.

The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is an epic drive that takes you all the way up to nearly 14,000 feet. It’s the highest paved road in North America, so the views are incredible.

You’ll start out in pine forests and then make your way to the alpine tundra, with a couple of spots to pull over and just take in the beauty. Wildlife like mountain goats and marmots are common up here, and the lakes you pass along the way are perfect for a quick stop or to stretch your legs.

If you’re looking for a drive that’ll have you pulling over every few miles to snap photos, this is it!

• Location: The byway starts near Idaho Springs, CO, and takes you up to about 14,130 feet.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are ideal since the road’s closed in the winter. Try to go on a weekday morning for a quieter experience.

PRO TIP: You’ll need to book a timed entry in advance to drive the byway.

Echo Lake on Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway / Amazing Places to Visit in Colorado

• Echo Lake Park

This lake is a great first stop. It’s pretty and peaceful, surrounded by tall pines. You can walk around the lake or just take in the views for a few minutes.

• Summit Lake Park

As you get higher, Summit Lake is another must-stop. The views here are jaw-dropping, with sweeping views of the mountains all around. There’s a short trail you can hike to get an even better perspective of the landscape.

• Summit Parking and Views

The road doesn’t quite get to the very top, but the parking lot sits just below the summit, and the views from here are amazing. If you’re up for it, there’s a short, steep trail to the summit of Mount Blue Sky. You won’t believe how high up you are once you make it!