Must-Do Adventures in Colorado

From Denver Delights to Mountain Magic

Welcome to colorful Colorado—where adventure is practically a state sport, and every corner offers something wildly unforgettable. Whether you're sticking close to the buzzing Denver metro or venturing into the peaks for fresh mountain air, Colorado is full of must-do experiences that’ll make your trip feel way too short (don’t worry, you can come back).

🏙️ Denver Metro Musts

Colorado’s capital is the perfect launch pad for your Rocky Mountain getaway. Here's what not to miss:

• RiNo Art District – Funky murals, indie galleries, and some of the best street tacos you'll ever eat.

• Union Station – A historic train station turned bougie hangout. Grab a craft cocktail or just people-watch with a coffee.

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Catch a concert or just hike the trails and stand in awe of the naturally perfect acoustics.

• Microbrew Mecca – Denver has over 100 breweries. Yes, you read that right. Try a craft flight at Great Divide or get weird (in a good way) at Cerebral Brewing.

🏞️ Mountain Must-Dos

A trip to Colorado isn’t complete without heading up. The Rockies are calling—loudly.

• Rocky Mountain National Park – Epic hikes, wildlife, and alpine lakes. Trail Ridge Road is basically a rollercoaster for your eyeballs.

• Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) Scenic Byway – America’s highest paved road takes you above 14,000 feet—pack snacks and layers (and maybe your courage).

• Breckenridge & Frisco – Historic towns with cozy vibes, mountain biking, world-class skiing, and a surprisingly impressive arts scene.

• Hot Springs – Soak your trail-weary legs in hidden gems like Indian Hot Springs (close to Denver!) or drive a little further to Glenwood for the ultimate soak-with-a-view experience.

💎 Hidden Gems Worth the Side Trip

• Nederland – A quirky mountain town with a Frozen Dead Guy Days festival. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like.

• St. Mary’s Glacier – A short hike with big payoff—snow in summer, anyone?

• Golden – Home to Coors and cute cafes, but also killer tubing down Clear Creek in summer.

• Leadville – The highest incorporated city in the U.S., with major Old West charm and 360° mountain views.

💸 What’s the Average Cost of a Trip to Colorado?

Colorado offers a mix of luxe and laid-back, so you can tailor your stay to your vibe (and budget). On average:

• Accommodation: $150–$300/night for mid-range hotels or cozy mountain Airbnbs

• Food & Drink: $50–$100/day (more if you love craft beer flights and fancy donuts)

• Activities: Many hikes and parks are free, but budget $20–$50/day for fun add-ons like park passes, lift tickets (in winter), or gear rentals

• Total Average Stay (per person for 5–7 days): $1,000–$1,500

🎿 Skiing & Snowboarding: Shred the Rockies

Whether you're a first-timer in rental gear or a seasoned pro who speaks fluent powder, Colorado's slopes are legendary. Just a short drive from Denver, you'll find world-class resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Winter Park—each offering everything from bunny hills to double black diamonds.

Want luxury lodges, champagne après, and perfectly groomed runs? Head to Vail or Beaver Creek. Looking for a more local, laid-back vibe? Try Eldora, just outside Boulder.

Tip: Book lift tickets early (seriously, early) and pack layers—you’ll go from bluebird sun to snow globe in minutes. Welcome to skiing the Colorado way. 🏂❄️

🥾 Rhodes Traveled Tips: How to Do Colorado Like a Local (Or at Least Look Like One)

So, you want to see the real Colorado—the kind of places tucked behind pine trees, found only via questionable gravel roads, or whispered about by locals between sips of craft kombucha? You’re in the right place. We’ve been exploring the hidden nooks of this state for years, and we’ve got the off-the-beaten-path goods and a few fashion tips so you can blend in like a true Coloradan (read: everyone looks like they’re coming from or going to a hike—because they are).

🏕️ Hidden Gems Worth the Detour

• Brainard Lake Recreation Area – A stunning alpine lake near Ward, CO that somehow still feels like a secret (but get there early or bring patience... and snacks).

• Caribou Ghost Town – High above Nederland, this eerie collection of crumbling cabins makes for a cool little history detour—bonus points if the fog rolls in.

• Devil’s Head Lookout – A fire lookout tower you can hike to near Sedalia. The 360° views are breathtaking (literally, thanks to the 143 stairs at the end).

• Hanging Lake – It’s Insta-famous but still somehow magical. You’ll need a permit and a bit of grit to get there, but it's worth every step.

• Crestone – One of the most spiritually funky towns in Colorado. Temples, hot springs, UFO sightings... you’ll leave with stories and sage in your luggage.

• Lost Gulch Overlook (Boulder) – For sunrise or sunset, this spot is pure drama—and one of our go-to “wow” places to bring out-of-town friends.

🧢 Want to Fit In? Here’s the Colorado Starter Pack:

1. Shades of Dirt: Brown, olive, tan, and maybe some muted sage green if you’re feeling wild. If you own neon, keep it in your suitcase.

2. The Puffy Vest: If you’re not wearing a down vest in July, are you even in Colorado?

3. Nalgene or Bust: Carry a water jug that could double as a small fish tank. Hydration is a religion here.

4. Trail Shoes at Brunch: Don’t bother changing. It’s normal to eat avocado toast with 3-day-old trail dust on your pants.

5. Beanie Etiquette: Worn year-round, indoors, and possibly during a job interview.

Final Tip:

To really unlock Colorado, slow down. The magic’s in the moments—a trailhead conversation, a dog in a kayak, or a completely unmarked coffee shop that turns out to have the best views (and espresso) in the state.