Overview

Colorado is a state of stunning contrasts — from snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes to desert canyons and high plains. Known for its outdoor lifestyle and majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado is a playground for skiers, hikers, and adventure seekers. The Centennial State also boasts vibrant cities, craft breweries, historic mining towns, and four-season beauty.

  • Capital: Denver
  • Largest Cities: Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, Lakewood
  • Population: ~5.9 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (UTC−7) / MDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Alpine and semi-arid — dry air, sunny days, and significant elevation variation

Top Destinations in Colorado

Denver

The Mile High City offers art, dining, and nightlife at the base of the Rockies, with easy access to outdoor escapes.

Colorado Springs

Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and historic landmarks — a mix of nature and culture.

Boulder

A progressive mountain town known for outdoor recreation, craft beer, and the University of Colorado.

Aspen & Vail

World-famous ski resorts with upscale shopping, hiking trails, and alpine charm.

Durango

A southwestern gem near Mesa Verde National Park with an Old West feel and scenic railroads.

Must-See Attractions

  • Rocky Mountain National Park – Iconic peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife viewing
  • Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) – Striking red rock formations and hiking trails
  • Mesa Verde National Park – Ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans
  • Pikes Peak – Drive or take a cog railway to the 14,115-foot summit
  • Maroon Bells (near Aspen) – Some of the most photographed mountains in North America

Things to Do

  • Ski, snowboard, or snowshoe in winter resort towns
  • Hike a “14er” — one of the state’s 50+ peaks over 14,000 feet
  • Whitewater raft or kayak the Arkansas or Colorado Rivers
  • Explore ghost towns and scenic byways like the Million Dollar Highway
  • Attend music, beer, and film festivals across the state

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Denver International (DEN), Colorado Springs (COS), Eagle County (EGE – for Vail), Aspen/Pitkin County (ASE)

Transport

  • Amtrak runs through Denver and Glenwood Springs
  • Regional shuttles and buses connect ski towns and national parks
  • Rental cars are best for mountain drives and remote destinations

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (Dec–Mar): Peak ski season in the mountains
  • Spring (Apr–May): Fewer crowds and melting snow
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Prime for hiking, festivals, and mountain escapes
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Brilliant foliage, golden aspens, and cooler temperatures

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Creative and locally sourced, with a focus on wild game, Mexican influences, and comfort food
  • Specialties: Bison burgers, green chile, trout, Palisade peaches, Rocky Mountain oysters
  • Drinks: Colorado craft beer, local wines, and small-batch spirits
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Telluride Film Festival
  • Great American Beer Festival (Denver)
  • Frozen Dead Guy Days (Nederland)
  • Jazz Aspen Snowmass
  • Colorado State Fair (Pueblo)

Souvenirs from Colorado

  • Handcrafted soaps or pottery from mountain towns
  • Local beer, wine, or distillery spirits
  • Aspen leaf jewelry or golden aspen art
  • Colorado flag apparel or hiking gear
  • Wildflower seeds or herbal teas from the Rockies

Fun Facts

  • Colorado has more than 300 days of sunshine each year
  • It’s home to 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet
  • Denver’s elevation is exactly 5,280 feet — one mile high
  • The Royal Gorge Bridge was once the highest suspension bridge in the world
  • The cheeseburger was reportedly invented in Denver in the 1930s

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Mountain & City Combo

  • Day 1: Denver – museums, breweries, and city parks
  • Day 2: Colorado Springs – Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak
  • Day 3: Boulder – Flatirons hike and Pearl Street shopping

5-Day National Parks & Peaks Adventure

  • Day 1: Arrive in Denver – explore downtown
  • Day 2: Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park – hike and scenic drive
  • Day 3: Aspen – Maroon Bells and alpine scenery
  • Day 4: Mesa Verde – cliff dwellings and cultural history
  • Day 5: Return via Durango or the Million Dollar Highway

Cities in Colorado

  • Denver