Nature & Public Lands: The Great Colorado Outdoors
Colorado’s landscape is a masterclass in diversity, featuring everything from 14,000-foot "Fourteeners" to rolling sand dunes and deep river canyons. With nearly half the state designated as public land, your options for exploration are practically infinite. Whether you are looking for the amenities of a state park or the rugged solitude of a national forest, the "Centennial State" is your playground.
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- State and National Parks
- State Parks Guide
- RV Travel
- Day Hiking
- Backpacking
- Wildflower Viewing Guide
- Wildlife
Family & Adventure Parks: High-Altitude Thrills
When the snow melts, Colorado’s ski resorts transform into summer "Discovery" centers. From alpine slides and mountain coasters to world-class aerial parks, these destinations offer a "Disney World of the Mountains" experience. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids engaged while enjoying the crisp mountain air.
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- Adventure Parks
- Aerial Parks, Ropes Courses, Ziplining
- Things to Do with Kids
- Educational Tours
- Hot Springs Guide
- Spas and Massage
Water & Recreation: Rafting, Lakes, and Rivers
Water in Colorado is a precious summer resource. Between the adrenaline-pumping whitewater of the Arkansas River and the glass-like serenity of Grand Lake, there is a "liquid" adventure for every pace. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, paddling a SUP, or bracing for a Class IV rapid, the high country water is calling.
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- Whitewater Rafting
- Popular Colorado Lakes
- Marinas & Boat Rentals
- Sailing in Colorado
- Kayaking, Canoeing & SUP
- Fishing in Colorado
Sightseeing & History: Echoes of the Old West
Touch the living history of the American West. Colorado’s past is etched into its landscape—from the dinosaur tracks of the Royal Gorge to the silver-mining ghost towns of the high country. Sightseeing here is an immersive journey through time, easily accessible via historic trains and guided jeep tours.
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- Scenic Train Rides
- Gondola Rides
- Off-Road Tours
- Ghost Towns of the Rockies
- Colorado Museums
- Dinosaurs & Fossils
- History Vacations
Events, Wine & Culture: The Spirit of Summer
Summer in Colorado is one long celebration. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater to the sun-soaked peach orchards of the Western Slope, the state's cultural calendar is packed. Experience the unique "high-altitude" profiles of our wineries or dive into the world-renowned craft brewery scene.
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- Colorado Events Calendar
- Tasting Rooms & Wineries
- Breweries & Distilleries
- Colorado Rodeo Schedule
- Farmers Markets
Shopping & Local Treasures: Malls to Mountains
Shopping in Colorado is an exercise in variety. You can spend your morning browsing luxury flagships in Denver and your afternoon hunting for 19th-century antiques in a small mountain town. Colorado is also a haven for artisan entrepreneurs, offering custom gear and boutique clothing you won't find anywhere else.
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Scenic Drives & Byways: Views from the Top
In Colorado, the road to your destination is often a highlight of the trip. Our 26 Scenic and Historic Byways offer front-row seats to spectacular panoramas, lush forests, and glimpses of elk and bighorn sheep. From the towering heights of Trail Ridge Road to the winding beauty of the Million Dollar Highway, these drives are a "must" for any road trip.
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Sporting & Recreation: Active Adventures
For those who prefer their vacation with a side of cardio, Colorado offers world-class facilities and natural terrain. Whether you're chasing a "birdie" at 8,000 feet, grinding gravel on a mountain bike, or exploring the backcountry on horseback, the high-altitude air provides a new element of challenge.
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- Colorado Bicycling Guide
- Golfing in the Rockies
- Horseback Riding Tours
- Rock Climbing & Bouldering
- ATVs & Off-Road Tours
Top Destinations: Exploring Colorado's Regions
Every corner of Colorado has a unique heartbeat. To plan the perfect vacation, you first have to find your region. From the bustling energy of the Front Range to the secluded beauty of the Western Slope and the world-famous resort towns of the Central Mountains, your base camp awaits.
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- Denver & The Front Range
- Summit County & Central Mountains
- The Western Slope
- Colorado Resort Towns
- State Map & Regions
- Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a favorite national park, offering a variety of camping options, extensive hiking trails, and educational experiences.
- Estes Park is a beautiful mountain town that borders RMNP, and is a gateway to Trail Ridge Road, Grand Lake, and Lake Granby.
- The Royal Gorge Region has attractions like the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Royal Gorge whitewater rafting, and the Royal Gorge Scenic Train.
- National and State Parks
Best for Big Kids
Discover sophisticated activities and leisure tailored for the mature traveler. Whether you're planning a full weekend getaway or just taking a little time off, these experiences offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
A Colorado Summer Vacation Plan and more
There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey.
Your summer vacation plan starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you, then crafting your summer road trip route to accommodate these visits.
If finding kids' activities is a primary focus, please check out this article about kids' activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool, as it is indispensable for organizing your trip. Have a nice summer vacation in Colorado!
