Dillon

Things to Do in Dillon, Colorado

The town of Dillon lies in the heart of Summit County, Colorado, with easy access from I-70 at Exit 205. The town and the surrounding communities of Silverthorne and Frisco make for an outdoor adventure mecca year-round. In the summer, the Reservoir (known by locals as Lake Dillon) is the crown jewel, beckoning with inviting watersports that are unique in this landlocked state. The alpine lake is an inviting attraction for boating, rafting, and fishing—and simply enjoying the laid-back lifestyle of a water community.

History

Like so much Colorado history, Dillon’s story dates back to the Gold Rush. Prospectors discovered gold near the headwaters of the Blue River in 1859, and modern-day Summit County’s population skyrocketed as hopeful miners flocked to the area to make their fortunes. The town was incorporated in the early 1880s, but the idea to dam the Blue River didn’t take shape until the early 20th century. The earth-filled dam wasn’t actually completed until 60 years later.

Lake Dillon Attractions

In the summer, Dillon becomes one of the country’s most unique lake towns. The 26 miles of shoreline along the reservoir give the destination a decidedly beach-like feel. At the Dillon Marina—the highest deep-water marina in North America—you can rent water toys galore, from personal watercraft to sailboats. Visitors can rent fishing and pontoon boats in addition to waterski-ready craft.

Themed boat tours include Women and Wine on the Water and Historic Boat Tours, which tells the fascinating story of the area’s rich history. It’s possible to book a charter cruise. The marina even has a sailing school, where you can take an introduction to sailing course or get basic keelboat instruction. A water shuttle that takes people (and their bikes) back and forth between the marinas in Dillon and Frisco. It’s a great way to spend some time on the water and enjoy a one-way bike ride back to your home base.

The Lakeside Amphitheatre

Catch a free lakeside concert at the newly renovated Lakeside Amphitheatre every Friday and Saturday night from June through early September. Taking place each weekend, the concerts feature a wide variety of acts, including national headliners like George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, in addition to local favorites. You’ll find rock, jazz, folk, and orchestral offerings throughout the summer. Movies on the Water are offered on Sundays in July and August, and classic films are shown at the amphitheater weekly. Behind the amphitheater, you’ll find a sandy beach known as Dillon’s North Shore, which is a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the lake.

Farmers Markets

The Farmers Market features a wide variety of Colorado-grown produce, artisan goods, and crafts, with live music giving it a festive flair. This Market runs every Friday from June through September, making it the perfect place to grab something to go for a picnic on the reservoir. Visitors will find one of the state’s best-known farmers markets with lots of Colorado-grown produce in addition to locally produced cheeses, meats, honey, confections, and bread, just to name a few.

Local artists exhibit unique clothes and jewelry, handmade pottery and crafts, health/beauty products, and even home goods. Live music gives the market a festival-like atmosphere and a kid’s area with games, entertainment, and live performances. It’s a family-friendly way to spend the morning. You can even start the day right with Yoga in the Park, which is available just as the market opens at 9 a.m.

Dillon for Kids

Bring the kiddos to Marina Park, a great spot to play and have lunch with the family. You can also learn and observe at Dillon’s Nature Preserve or relax at the Town Park. If the Wild West has you hungry for knowledge, check out the Summit Historical Society’s Schoolhouse Museum. Don’t forget to check out the numerous tennis, basketball, and bocce ball courts. If the Wild West has you hungry for knowledge, check out the Summit Historical Society’s Schoolhouse Museum.

Delta County

Visit Delta County, Colorado

Rich in culture and history with bountiful orchards, lake-strewn mountains, vast forests and desert canyons. Delta County includes the communities of Cedaredge, Crawford, Delta, Eckert, Hotchkiss, Orchard City and Paonia.

Salida

Find Adventure in Salida, Colorado

Visitors are lured to Salida by the abundance of outdoor activities, art galleries and shops, local history and the natural scenic beauty of the area. Bordered on the west by the Continental Divide and on the east by the Arkansas River, Salida’s location is ideal for both adventure and relaxation. The Arkansas River runs through downtown Salida and is a playground for rafters, kayakers, paddle-boarders and “beach lovers.” For over 70 years Salida has been the site of FIBArk, the nation’s longest-running whitewater-rafting competition held annually in mid-June. The Arkansas River is recognized as a Gold Medal designation with the highest quality cold-water habitat for fish.

Salida is also a great place to relax, with spas, wellness centers, and hot springs. The downtown Creative District is packed with art galleries, restaurants, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, antique shops and all types of boutique shopping. Treat the kids to the adventures awaiting in family-friendly Salida.

Buena Vista

Explore Buena Vista, Colorado

Buena Vista is a mix of a quiet mountain community and a vital tourist town known for its friendly people bound together by a love of the outdoors, clean-air and small-town living.

Located in central Colorado on the Arkansas River, rafting and kayaking are two exciting activities that draw people to the area. The whitewater park at the end of East Main provides great family fun. Cross the footbridge in the park and you can mountain bike or hike right from town. Like to fish? Recently this part of the river has been designated a Gold Medal fishing area.

Over ten 14,000′ mountains within 30 minutes provide wonderful, scenic hiking and mountain bike trails. Hot springs are open all year.

Quaint shops, galleries, museums, a variety of restaurants, historic re-enactments, concerts in the park, farmer’s markets, and a full calendar of events make Buena Vista a fun place to vacation.

Breckenridge

Things to Do in Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is known as a world-class ski and snowboard destination, and for good reason – Breckenridge Ski Resort spans four peaks and more than 2,300 acres that include five terrain parks, two half-pipes, eight bowls and the highest chairlift in North America. Beyond the runs? Signature winter parties, indie shopping, an award-winning arts district and locally-made libations await. After all, Breck delivers on diversity.

Prospectors discovered gold when they founded this mountain town in 1859. Today, Breck is a quaint mountain town tucked away in the Ten Mile Range. The 154-year-old Victorian town includes one of the state’s largest National Historic Districts with 249 Historic District structures.

Beaver Creek

Things to Do in Beaver Creek, Colorado

With heated walkways, escalators to the slopes and immaculate grooming, slope-side accommodations, warm après-ski cookies and the Ivy League of ski schools, you really are “not exactly roughing it” in Beaver Creek. Despite 300 days of sunshine and 1,805 acres of Colorado grandeur, Beaver Creek also boasts the intimacy of an alpine village, featuring mouthwatering cuisine, blissful spas and captivating performing arts.

Aspen

Vacation in Aspen, Colorado

Ahhh, Aspen, Colorado, where do we start? The name alone conjures images of majestic mountains, outdoor adventure, healthy living, divine dining, music festivals, and exceptional shopping. To the world, Aspen means “The Good Life.” And yes, this town has everything the good life has to offer. But there is even more—Aspen’s got soul.

It is a world-class destination with outdoor adventures from skiing to biking, with a flair for arts and culture, but still maintains enough small-town charm for year-round residents to call it home. Aspen truly is a unique diamond nestled in the rough of the Rocky Mountains that has a knack for bringing big city features to you in a way that defies the ordinary. Learn more about Aspen via the Aspen Chamber and Resort Association or sign up for a FREE Visitor’s Guide.

Vail

Things to Do at Vail Resort, Colorado

Throughout the US, Vail Resort is synonymous with the American alpine experience. Situated high up in the Gore Valley and surrounded by the White River National Forest, this community is ideally located in proximity to all the Rocky Mountains have to offer. Vail Ski Resort opened on December 15, 1962, boasting one gondola, two chair lifts, eight ski instructors, and a $5 lift ticket. Since then, this resort has become the most extensive ski area on a single mountain in the United States and caters to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Today, this area consists of three distinct communities: East Vail, Cascade Village, and West Vail. To learn more about how these communities together make a world-class resort. Additionally, neighboring Beaver Creek Resort is a stand-alone resort and community.

Access this region via Eagle County Regional Airport, just 37 miles away, or 2 hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport, 92 miles.

About Vail Mountain

The resort’s three base areas are Golden Peak, Vail Village, and Lionshead. During the winter season, signs with grooming reports and trail access information are posted daily at all three base areas. Trail maps for those unfamiliar with the mountain can be found at all lift ticket windows, on-mountain lodges, and throughout the base areas. Visitors should also familiarize themselves with the skier responsibility code on the trail map.

Adventure Ridge offers excellent activities for families and kids. Tubing, ski bikes, a children’s snowmobile track, and ice skating are available.
Home to some of the world’s best ski and snowboard instructors. Lessons are available for all levels of skiers, snowboarders, or telemark skiers. Newcomers to these activities are strongly advised to take a lesson—your knees and elbows will thank you for it later!
The FREE PEAKS program is the best money and timesaver for multiple-day skiers and snowboarders. Contact any of the lift ticket offices to make a purchase. Open until 4:30 p.m. daily.
Blue Sky Basin is one of the farthest-to-reach areas and is accessible by several lifts and trails from the front of the mountain. The area has no dining options, but a warming hut and bathrooms are available.
Tired legs are dangerous. If your legs are tired, download on the Vista Bahn, Riva Bahn, or Gondola rather than taking your chances with an injury.

Learn more about central Colorado.

What’s Happening at the Resort

Their signature events have become very popular. They feature activities such as Top of Mountain Yoga, the Apres Spring Series, a Tase of Vail, GoPro Mountain Games, and more.
Of course, there is skiing and snowboarding at Vail Mountain. World-renowned back bowls, Golden Peak, and Blue Sky Basin.
There are plenty of hiking trails. See their Hiking Guide and information about Adventure Ridge. There is also more about gondola access hiking.
Extensive mountain biking trails with gondola access.
A long list of events going on in the community.
Plan your wedding in Vail.
Vail Dance Festival.

With a European feel, Vail Village and Lionshead Village are designed to accommodate pedestrians. Take a stroll through the villages down the heated cobblestone walkways to enjoy fire pits, sculptures, and water features. As well as its reputation as a legendary mountain town with world-class skiing, plush accommodations, fine dining, and fantastic shopping.

Vail has the Family in Mind

Consider this entire area a giant playground for kids, families, and adults. This resort is packed with places to explore, activities, events, new adventures, and quality time to make lasting memories.

Exploring Arts & Culture

Diversity of cultural and educational activities is an attraction for locals and guests. The community considers its cultural scene top-notch, with access to theatre, music, arts, and educational experiences that will enlighten and lift the spirit.

Colorado Ski Snowboard Resorts

Colorado is rich with the best ski snowboard resorts in North America. Skiing or riding in Colorado is a must-do for any real connoisseur. Check out this map which shows interactive location details about all 25 ski areas in Colorado. Get extensive resort details in our Colorado Ski Resort Guide. If you are looking for a family-minded area, view our list of recommendations, and check out what we consider Colorado’s top ski area picks.

Colorado’s world-renowned ski snowboard resorts and accommodating ski towns beckon travelers of all backgrounds, ages, and interests, with every ski resort offering something different. From the hardcore backcountry hike-it crowd to the family of four looking for lessons and a laid-back day on groomed runs, there’s a Colorado ski snowboard resort that will exceed expectations.

View Live Webcam at major resorts for real-time snow conditions.

Be prepare to drive on Colorado’s highways this winter, and check the live webcams of Colorado’s major passes.

Colorado’s Top Snowboard Terrain Parks

Colorado has a premier selection of snowboard halfpipes and terrain parks. Some of our top picks include:

Arapahoe Basin – 5 terrain parks featuring halfpipes and terrain park features for all abilities.
Aspen – In the heart of Aspen. Intermediate to advanced skiers.
Snowmass – A progressive lineup of terrain elements to challenge any level. Central location.
Buttermilk Mountain – Home to the Winter X Games
Breckenridge – A variety of terrain parks from beginner to pro pipes.
Winter Park resort – 7 parks to choose from starter to very advanced.
Telluride – Over 100 features created for all ability levels.
Vail – Choose from two terrain parks, pro-style features to beginner and kid-sized jumps.
Beaver Creek – Signature parks collection
Keystone – Home to the award-winning A51 terrain park, more than 100 features
Loveland – Something for everyone, new features every year. Two lifts access the park.
Frisco Adventure Park – just $29 per day

Nordic Skiing

Nordic skiing, otherwise known as cross-country skiing is fundamental to Colorado’s ski history and life in the mountains. Cross-country skiing is perfect for those who enjoy the cardio workout and the slower pace to enjoy the surroundings. Nordic centers can be found near all major ski areas and beyond. Visit our cross-country ski page to learn more.

Backcountry Ski Locations

For those off-the-beaten-path types. Backcountry skiing is readily available. One thing all backcountry areas have in common is they are not managed. Meaning you are on your own. No groomed runs or ski patrol to help you out in case of emergency. Backcountry skiers need to be advanced in their knowledge of avalanche danger and survival, and carry safety equipment. Be able to read maps, and navigate terrain. Most of all have the ability to ski safely in the chosen area. It helps to have a checklist of items you need to bring along.

A Short List of Popular Backcountry Ski Areas

Quandary Peak – Has intermediate and advanced terrain.
Loveland Pass – Advanced and extreme terrain.
Rocky Mountain National Park – Advanced and extreme terrain.
Red Mountain Pass – Hugh variety of terrain from moderate to extreme.
Berthoud Pass – Variety of terrain, mostly expert.
Crested Butte – Variety of mostly extreme terrain.

Finding the Right Colorado Ski Snowboard Resort

With so many ski snowboard resort choices in Colorado, it’s hard to go wrong. With just a little investigating you can easily figure out what ski snowboard resort will fit your group’s ski snowboard ability level and style. Most resorts have ski snowboard schools, clubs, clinics, childcare, and more available. Additionally, there is always a variety of lift ticket prices, passes, and special offers to check out. If you’re on a budget, there are several resorts to consider. Or, if you have a lot of kids with you, there are options. Perhaps some of your group members are more interested in off-slope or non-skier activities. Whatever your ski snowboard vacation needs are, Colorado is here to deliver.

Denver

Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

Dining and Shopping in Denver

Denver restaurants, galleries, and shops pepper 20 diverse neighborhoods. From the stately Victorian mansions of Capitol Hill and the rich African-American culture of historic Five Points, to the quaint, tree-lined streets of Old South Gaylord and Old South Pearl. The area’s laid-back attitude and class are exemplified in the art districts and communities surrounding downtown.

Meanwhile, the heart of downtown is still the 16th Street Mall, a mile-long pedestrian promenade lined with restaurants, shops and seasonal programming. Free hop-on-hop-off shuttle buses leave either end of the Mall every 90 seconds, making everything downtown easy to reach. Check out Colfax Avenue, the Golden Road history. At 26.5 miles long, it’s the longest commercial street in the U.S.

At the end of the Mall is LoDo, a hip historic district with a vibrant nightlife. LoDo is overflowing with more than 200 bars, lounges, brew pubs, jazz cafés, restaurants and music clubs. In 2007, the neighborhood welcomed the stunning new Museum of Contemporary Art. Attracting some of the nation’s top talent and offering a staggering rooftop view of the beautiful skyline.

Nearby, the Cherry Creek Shopping District is a village within the city, filled with nearly 500 shops, independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and galleries.

The Denver Music Scene

Check out the music scene, with some of the best sounds – from top acts to independent artists – that can be heard nationwide. The world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre welcomes a new music season each summer, along with weekly outdoor films from late May to mid-August.

Professional Sports

For the more sports-minded, MLB’s Colorado Rockies, play at the centrally located Coors Field in LoDo. Denver hosts seven professional sports teams in total, including the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, the NFL’s Denver Broncos and the NBA’s Denver Nuggets.

Experiencing Denver Colorado

Perhaps you have found yourself in this area on business or for another reason. Experiencing Colorado from Denver is just around the corner. Many urban parks cater to a variety of popular sporting activities such as fishing, boating, cycling, rollerblading, walking the dog or going for a jog. Plus, there are State Parks scattered about and Rocky Mountain National Wildlife Refuge is nearby. Getting out into the great outdoors and experiencing the Rocky Mountain High is just outside your door.

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