11 Unique Things to Do in Colorado

Colorado is a unique and diverse state that offers a wide range of experiences and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or simply looking for something different, Colorado has something for everyone. Here are eleven of the most unique things to do in Colorado.

The stunningly terrifying red mountain pass in Colorado during fall
The scenic San Juan Byway includes Red Mountain Pass which we describe as terrifyingly beautiful.

Take a Scenic Drive

Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic drives in the country, including the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the San Juan Skyway aka Red Mountain Pass, and the Trail Ridge Road. These drives offer breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, scenic vistas, and opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Many of these are mountain passes and not for the faint of heart, with steep drop offs along with views for miles.

steamboat springs hot springs
Hot springs can be even more special in the winter when covered in snow.

Soak in a Hot Spring

Colorado is famous for its hot springs, and there are many to choose from, including the Glenwood Hot Springs, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, and the Mount Princeton Hot Springs. These natural hot springs are a great way to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate, and many offer stunning mountain views as well.

colorado rafting
Rafting the Royal Gorge outside of Canon City Colorado. Photo courtesy Echo Canyon River Expeditions.

Go on a Rafting Trip

Colorado is home to some of the best rafting rivers in the country, including the Arkansas River, the Colorado River, and the Cache la Poudre River. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a beginner, there’s a trip for everyone, and the scenery is unbeatable.

One of our favorite rafting trips was in Canon City with Echo Canyon, navigating the waters through the Royal Gorge.

snowmass mountain covered in snow in winter

Go Skiing or Snowboarding

Colorado is famous for its ski resorts. And there are many to choose from, including Vail, Snowmass, Steamboat, Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, and Aspen. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, these resorts offer world-class skiing and snowboarding. These resorts also offer a range of other activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and après-ski entertainment.

If you don’t think that skiing is unique enough, then try your hand at ski biking. Some ski resorts offer these for rent and even night tours on ski bikes.

Insider Tip: There are also free activities to be found in the ski resorts, such as sledding.

Take a Scenic Train Ride

Colorado is home to several scenic train rides, including the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, and the Georgetown Loop Railroad. These train rides offer stunning mountain views, opportunities to see wildlife, and a unique way to experience Colorado’s natural beauty.

meow wold convergence station denver
Meow Wolf Convergence Station: Multi-dimensional, multi-sensory place of discovery and imagination that was born of art.

Visit a Museum

Colorado is home to several world-class museums, including the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. These museums offer a chance to learn about Colorado’s rich history and cultural heritage. They also offer an opportunity to see world-class art and exhibitions.

Our favorite Colorado Museum may be Meow Wolf Convergence Station. Of course, the label museum doesn’t do it justice. Art exhibit. Theme park. Or, we can just go with multi-dimensional, multi-sensory place of discovery and imagination born from art.

Independence Ghost Town. Photo courtesy Aspen Historical Society.

Explore a Ghost Town

Colorado is home to several ghost towns, including St. Elmo, Ashcroft, and Central City. These ghost towns offer a glimpse into Colorado’s rich mining history, and are a unique and fascinating way to experience the state’s past.

Colorful hot air balloons in the sky in Snowmass Colorado
Snowmass Hot Air Balloon Festival

Ride (or View) Hot Air Balloons

Colorado is home to several hot air balloon festivals, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the state’s natural beauty. These flights are a unique way to experience Colorado’s stunning scenery. They are truly a unique and unforgettable experience. Just watching them from below is a spectacular sight too.

Town of Minturn while the Minturn Farmers Market is happening. Photo courtesy Town of Minturn. Kevin Banker.

Visit a Farmers Market

Colorado is home to many farmers markets, offering fresh and locally-grown produce, artisanal food and craft items, and live music and entertainment. These markets are a great way to experience Colorado’s vibrant local food and arts scene, and are a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and authentic experience.

Redstone Castle in Colorado
Header image courtesy of Redstone Castle/ Mountain Home Photography.

Visit a Castle

Colorado is home to several castles, including the Bishop’s Castle, a unique and captivating castle located near Pueblo. This castle, built entirely by one man, offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into medieval architecture. In addition, it boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Colorado Alpine Coaster at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
View of the alpine coaster tracks and the valley below at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Photo: Liana Moore

Visit an Adventure Park

Colorado is home to several adventure parks, including the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs. And the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in Canon City. These parks offer a range of activities, including zip lining, ropes courses, and scenic gondola rides. This provides an exciting and thrilling experience for visitors of all ages.

Colorado is a state that offers a diverse range of experiences and activities for visitors. From scenic drives and hot springs, to museums and castles, there is truly something for everyone in Colorado.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply something different, Colorado is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.

With its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and range of activities, it’s no wonder that Colorado is one of the most popular destinations in the country. So pack your bags, grab your hiking shoes, and head to Colorado for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

11 Unique Things to Do in Colorado

Liana Moore

Liana Moore is a third-culture kid with a hangover from those days that is a severe case of wanderlust. She is more comfortable driving the cliffs of Amalfi, Italy or the dirt roads of Costa Rica or attempting to decipher the street signs of Osaka, Japan than navigating the theme parks of Disney World. But she loves it all. She doesn't believe a vacation is complete without an adventure. Her husband and kids know well that "adventure" often is code for mishap or challenge and it usually results in a good story. They seek outdoor experiences whether in the mountains, on a beach or in the jungle of a tropical country. Her favorite vacation is... all the ones she hasn't yet taken, as well as those she plans on taking again. And, that list is so, so long. But she continues to extensively explore her home state of Colorado, spends lots of time wandering Texas, California, New Mexico, Costa Rica, Mexico, Norway and has even explored Kazakhstan.

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