It is (pretty much) officially fall in Colorado... can I get an "amen" from all you basic folk like me?! Now that pumpkin spice lattes are flowing and leaves are changing color, it is time to get out and enjoy everything that Colorado has to offer this time of year, which includes:
Located in the San Juan Mountains, this easily recognizable 233-mile road passes through some of the most stunning and colorful scenery in not just the state, but in the country.
With easy access via I-70 (just 45 miles west of Denver), the historic "Silver Queen of the Rockies" is truly the ultimate Colorado fall destination with its ample shopping and dining opportunities, rides aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, and multiple museums. (Need we even mention that the town is surrounded by some the most jaw-dropping colors in the state?)
3. Find your perfect pumpkin at Diana's Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. (Canon City)
If you have yet to hike the iconic Maroon Bells in the fall, you have yet to truly experience this incredible area! In addition to its picture-perfect views, the area is home to 5 different trails the range from 1 to 13 miles round trip.
Nothing says fall more than fresh picked apples, so what better way to celebrate the season than by attending Cedaredge's AppleFest on October 7th and 8th (2017)? (In addition to apple goodness, AppleFest also features a car show, chili cook-off, vendors, and more.)
6. Dine at the allegedly haunted Meeker Hotel and Cafe. (Meeker)
Are you looking for something a bit spookier to do this fall? Look no further than the Meeker Hotel and Cafe; a historic 1896 hotel and restaurant that is home to both Charlie Dunbar (the original owner who was killed during a gunfight that still likes to hang around the hotel and chivalrously lead women down the long staircase) and the Painted Lady (who wakes guests in the middle of the night with her strong perfume).
Hidden away outside of Carbondale is one of Colorado’s best kept and most well-preserved secrets: Crystal Mill. While the historic mill is no longer in service, it is still a popular spot for hiking and photography. (Can you see why?)
Do you think this photo of Pearl Lake State Park—which is located just north of Steamboat Springs and boasts unbeatable mountain views—looks amazing? Wait until you this Centennial State gem in person.
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9. Search for that perfect apple at Fruit Basket Orchards. (Grand Junction)
It's time to grab the kids, load up the car, and hightail it on over to the Fruit Basket Orchard; a U-Pick orchard along the Western Slope that has not one, not two, but 18 different varieties of apples!
10. Scream bloody murder at the 13th Floor Haunted House. (Denver)
Named the #1 haunted house in America by Fox News and USA Today, the 13th Floor Haunted House is the granddaddy of all haunted houses that is a must-visit for all you Halloween lovers out there.
Last but not least on our must-do fall list is the exciting Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which was originally constructed to haul silver & gold ore from the San Juan Mountains to Denver and is now one of Colorado’s favorite train rides that spans across some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The long, warm days of summer are upon us and it's time to start planning. With our marvelous weather and abundant opportunities for adventure, it is no wonder this state draws so many out-of-towners during the summer season. Whether you are a local or a visitor looking for some of the best things to do in Colorado in summer, we have plenty of inspiration for you - with everything from getaways to festivals to budget-friendly activities. Let the summer fun begin!
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Colorado
Perhaps your plans for Colorado summer activities mainly include scattered day trips, but if the travel bug is biting, we have rounded up a few unique destinations for an unforgettable getaway this season.
Popularity: Popular destination for tourists during summer months.
Need to Know: Best times to visit are May, June, and September for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Let’s start with an escape to the friendly town of Palisade, known for incredible peaches and wine. This easily accessible small town is located just about 15 minutes from Grand Junction and boasts a multitude of things to see and do. Explore the historic downtown area, taste award-winning wines at some of the over 30 wineries, enjoy gorgeous views of the Grand Mesa, or attend one of the town’s summer festivals. If you are looking for outdoor adventures, take advantage of some epic opportunities for fishing, hiking, rafting, mountain biking, and camping in this memorable destination. In fact, we love Palisade Basecamp and RV Resort!
Popularity: Lesser-known and fewer crowds than other national monuments
Need to Know: Best times to visit are May, June, September, and October, particularly for hiking. Temperatures can be extreme in mid-summer.
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Drawing far less tourism than more well-known destinations, Dinosaur National Monument offers an endless array of unique outdoor activities and a visit here is one of the most unique things for families to do in Colorado. Visit the Quarry Exhibit Hall to see a literal wall full of dinosaur bones and hike various fascinating trails to discover ancient fossils, pictographs, petroglyphs, and of course, magnificent views of the rugged canyon and layered rocks. Take on a different kind of adventure - and a unique perspective of the towering sandstone bluffs - with a multi-day whitewater excursion down the Yampa River. This amazing place also happens to be an International Dark Sky Park, so get ready for some of the best stargazing in the nation. Being an ideal destination for true outdoor enthusiasts, it makes sense that there are six campgrounds throughout the Monument, three on the Colorado side and three in Utah. If you prefer ending a day of strenuous exploration with more creature comforts, book a stay in one of the small towns nearby like one of the adorable cabins at Moosehead Lodge in Rangely.
Need to Know: The summer season runs from June through mid-September. The warmest days, ideal for water activities, tend to be in July.
As the name suggests, Buena Vista is the definition of a scenic town and an outdoor-lover’s paradise. This friendly, laid-back town is renowned for its whitewater rafting and water sports, so much so that there is a population of summer residents who live here for a few months each year and work as guides. Of course, the water is just one draw because Buena Vista also offers fantastic hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and hot springs, among other adventures. The vibrant Main Street has lovely shopping and dining options, and the areas surrounding the town offer even more natural beauty to explore, including Cottonwood Lake the hiking trails through the
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/colorado/best-hiking-trail-near-buena-vista-co/" target="_blank">Collegiate Range mountains. There are plenty of options for places to stay, such as this gorgeous riverfront hotel.
Best Lakes And Beaches To Visit In Colorado This Summer
When summer arrives, the water calls. We certainly have our fair share of scenic lakes to visit, and a lot of us have our favorites, but here are a few ideas for when the only thing that will do on a warm day is getting out on the water.
Popularity: Popular with families and anglers during spring and summer.
Need to Know: Daily vehicle pass is $10; Campsite fees are $28 to $36 per day.
There is nothing quite like a summer day at Lake Pueblo State Park. For one thing, it has become known as a “fishing hotspot.” It is also a perfect place for hiking, sailing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and camping. Add to that the family-friendly Rock Canyon Swim Beach open all summer long. You won’t forget a fun-filled day (or an entire weekend!) exploring this beautiful 10,000-acre park.
Popularity: Hiking trails around the lake are popular on weekends and during summer months.
Need to Know: Snow often stays on the ground through spring. The reservoir is usually drained for a period during late July to early August. Best times to visit are early summer through early fall. Daily vehicle fee is $10
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There is a reason that the spectacular hiking trails through the area around Lake Isabelle are popular. This is one of the most pristine, clear alpine lakes in the state. Nestled in the mountains of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the scenery here is pretty magnificent. Access this jewel of a lake via one of the scenic trails, such as the Pawnee Pass Trail which leads through a series of three glacier lakes, conifer trees, meadows, and streams. Be sure to pack a picnic as there are plenty of picturesque spots to sit and unwind around the lake.
Popularity: Popular for fishing, boating, and camping, but offers plenty of space and rarely feels crowded.
Need to Know: Daily entrance fee is $10 per vehicle or $20 for vehicle and boat trailer.
Another one of this state’s most beautiful lakes is Larimer County’s Horsetooth Reservoir. Spend a day on the water paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, swimming at the beach, or even scuba diving. If you prefer more of a dry day at the lake, bring your mountain bike, explore hiking trails, go horseback riding, or do a little fishing. Extend your lake adventure by setting up camp for an overnight stay at Horsetooth.
Parks To Visit In Colorado This Summer
When it comes to summer, nothing beats a great outdoor adventure and our many parks offer just that, no matter what you are looking for. From hiking trails to playgrounds, a visit to an incredible park also offers a bonus - it is one of the best cheap things to do in Colorado in summer. The only cost may be a delicious picnic lunch.
Need to Know: Vehicle day pass is $10; individual day pass is $4. Limited parking available in two parking lots.
Believe us when we say it is worth joining the many people who visit our smallest state park, Rifle Falls State Park. The triple 70-foot-high waterfalls were named among the Top 10 Waterfalls in the West by Sunset magazine, and they are truly a sight to behold, as are the park’s limestone cliffs and caves. This may be the perfect summer day trip for families since the park’s picturesque features are as easy to access and explore as they are beautiful. Spend the day hiking, fishing, and looking for wildlife, and enjoy tent and RV camping in this tiny 48-acre park.
Popularity: Hidden gem in plain sight! More popular on weekends, especially during summer.
Need to Know: Daily fees are $20 per vehicle, $8 per bicyclist, $5 per pedestrian.
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Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a remarkable place that many pass up as they head for the spectacular Garden of the Gods, its famous neighbor. But we think not exploring this fascinating park is a mistake. Featuring reclaimed quarries, gravel pits, and even a landfill, now smothered in wild nature including cactus, wildflowers, and trees, this is a one-of-a-kind landscape. Whether you come to enjoy a leisurely stroll, an epic hike, or anything in between, you will find a perfect trail waiting for you, complete with amazing views of red rock formations and even the Garden of the Gods itself. There are also scenic picnic areas and a dog park!
Popularity: Most popular on weekends, but has multiple play areas and plenty of space for all to enjoy.
Need to Know: The bark is open during summer and fall from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Splash pad water play hours are Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There are four group areas that can be reserved - the Coffee Shelter, Large Shelter, Plaza, and Amphitheater.
Of course, hiking adventures are not the only reason to visit a park this summer. If you are looking for an amazing place to bring the kids - one that literally everyone can enjoy - we absolutely cannot say enough good things about the award-winning Centennial Center Park with its giant inclusive playground. Kids of every age and ability will have a non-stop blast swinging, playing, climbing, and exploring. On a hot day, the massive colorful splash pad is a splendid way to cool off. Clearly, Centennial Center Park Playground is a haven for kids, but adults will love this park as well with 11 acres that include nature areas, an amphitheater, grassy lawns, shaded picnic tables, and more. And Fido can come along, too.
Best Free Summer Activities
We know families are always looking for inexpensive ways to have fun, but let’s be honest - we all appreciate free things to do in Colorado in summer, right? Whatever your summer fun budget, you will love these ideas that won’t cost you a dime.
Popularity: Growing in popularity with plenty of room for everyone to relax.
Need to Know: Street parking only. Movies generally begin at dusk on Fridays throughout the summer.
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Starting in June each summer, you can catch free outdoor movies at MCA Central Park. Bring a blanket, chairs, a cooler, and snacks - oh, and your friends and family - for a fun evening under the sky. Grab popcorn, candy, and beverages from the concessions stand or grab some goodies from food trucks that usually park near the site. There are also free outdoor concerts at Central Park throughout the summer. Check out or follow MCA on Facebook to see upcoming events.
Popularity: Most popular on weekends; visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
Need to Know: The park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during summer and fall months (weekends only from January through May). Tickets can be reserved (including free days) on the park website.
The site of Denver’s oldest standing house, Four Mile Historic Park gives visitors a unique opportunity to step away from the frenzy of modern city life and back in time. On the 4th Friday of the month throughout the summer and fall seasons, this 12-acre oasis in the city offers free admission. Wander through the gardens and trails, meet friendly farm animals, take a tour of the museum, and even pan for “gold.” A working homestead, costumed tour guides, a stagecoach stop, covered wagons, live demonstrations, and replica buildings give you a genuine feel for local life in the 1800s. Check the official park website for a full event calendar, including free days.
Need to Know: Parking is along the shoulder of the road. There are no guided tours, but is open to explore on your own. The dragon is usually fired up on summer weekends.
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There are some truly weird and wonderful sites to see in this state, but Bishop Castle just might take the cake. This is one of the strangest buildings in Colorado (don’t take our word for it - House Beautiful named it so!) and it is always free to visit. Visitors of all ages will find this quirky three-story stone castle completely mesmerizing, from its towers and wild bridges to its whimsical stained glass windows to its dragon - its actual fire-breathing dragon! This elaborate structure was built by one man, Jim Bishop, and you will definitely never forget exploring it.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Colorado
With the many local events taking place throughout the season, there are a multitude of ways to celebrate summer. Take a look at a handful of some of the special festivals that you won’t want to miss.
Need to Know: Tickets can be purchased from a month ahead until the event day. Purchase tickets early for a discounted rate.
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If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Colorado in summer, make plans to attend the annual Colorado Lantern Festival. This magical celebration takes place at Carpenter Park each summer and is as dreamy as it sounds. Festivities start in the late afternoon with live music performances and gourmet food trucks. At 8 p.m., you have the opportunity to decorate your own lantern. From 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., the lanterns are set adrift in the lake and as darkness sets in, the glowing spectacle is breathtaking. Mark your calendars and buy your tickets so you don’t miss this enchanting festival.
Need to Know: The event is free to attend and takes place at Bald Eagle Lake. Balloon launch starts at 6:00 a.m.
Get ready for the most colorful festival of the year - the annual 3-day Hot Air Balloon Rodeo. More than 20 vibrant balloons will float up through the early morning sky for the most visually stunning and photo-worthy display. Like any festival worth attending, there will be plenty of other fun things to do including local food trucks, a host of vendors, live entertainment, etc. Make sure you set your alarm so you don't miss this one!
Need to Know: Tickets sell out every year, so we recommend purchasing your tickets early. The event takes place on grass (with lots of standing and walking) and the weather can be unpredictable in September; be sure to check the forecast and plan to wear comfortable shoes.
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What better way to end the summer season than four days of foodie fun at the Denver Food and Wine Festival? At this awesome event, you not only have the opportunity to sample plenty of fantastic flavors, but you will also learn about and support some of the state’s best chefs, restaurants, food trucks, wineries, and bartenders. The festival features tastings, a cocktail competition, seminars, an online auction, and of course, massive amounts of food and drink. This September, send summer off with bang!
There is no such thing as a dull summer in the Centennial State! Which of these places and events do you plan to experience this year? What other must-do activities are on your "things to do in Colorado in summer" list? We want to hear from you! Give us your best recommendations in the comments. Whatever your plans, have a fun and memorable summer season!
