Just 30 Minutes From Denver, Bennett Is The Perfect Colorado Day Trip Destination

bennett colorado places to visit

Annie is a freelance writer, content editor, and marketing whiz with a background in broadcasting and a passion for chicken nachos.

More by this Author

Do you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, if not for only an hour or two? No problem, as all of our biggest cities are surrounded by charming small towns! If you are in Denver and need to get away, however, we have to recommend visiting the small plains town of Bennett, which is the perfect Colorado day trip destination:

bennett colorado places to visit

Related Stories

Colorado Is Officially Home To 3 Of The Best Scenic Train Rides In America

Colorado Is Officially Home To 3 Of The Best Scenic Train Rides In America

One Of The Most Unique Towns In America, Paonia Is Lovely For A Day Trip In Colorado

One Of The Most Unique Towns In America, Paonia Is Lovely For A Day Trip In Colorado

12 Unforgettable Colorado Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

12 Unforgettable Colorado Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

bennett colorado places to visit

Do you have a favorite town, event, restaurant, or attraction that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here ! For even more of our favorite small towns, check out The Small Town In Colorado That’s One Of The Coolest In The U.S.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Colorado in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Colorado!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

Related Articles

  • The Scenic Colorado Mining Route That Leads To 5 Old-Fashioned Restaurants, General Stores, And More
  • 7 Incredible Colorado Day Trips You Can Take By Train
  • Take A Day Trip To The Best Wine And Waterfalls In Colorado
  • The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Colorado
  • The Small Town In Colorado Boasting World-Famous Pie Is The Sweetest Day Trip Destination
  • The Colorado Plains Town Of La Junta Is The Perfect Day Trip From Denver
  • The Tiny Plains Town In Colorado That's The Perfect Day Trip Destination
  • The Colorado Ghost Town That's Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip

Explore Colorado

Featured addresses.

  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Uncover Colorado Logo

  • Trip Planner

Bennett Colorado Skyline

Bennett, Colorado

Bennett is a growing town near the eastern end of Colfax Avenue, 30 minutes from Aurora. It has a small downtown area with a few restaurants and local businesses to browse.  Located at 5,485 feet above sea level on the great plains, the community is continuously expanding into a hub for services along I-70.

This plains town resides in both  Adams  and  Arapahoe counties. In 2020 there were 2,862 residents, with a majority residing in Adams County. Bennett was incorporated on January 22nd, 1930.

Covered wagons at a campground

Camping –

  • Denver East / Strasberg KOA is near Bennett and offers 48 total sites, 45 for RVs with varying levels of hookup options, and 3 for tent camping. A few cabins and covered wagons are also available if you don’t have your own camping setup. There is a seasonal pool from May to September, as well as a year-round snack bar and playground.
  • Read about the best camping near Aurora, Parker, and Brighton

Fishing –  Aurora Reservoir is the closest body of water to the town and is a great spot to cast a line. There are over 800 acres of water to explore with a non-motorized boat. Species in the reservoir include tiger muskie, white sucker, and smallmouth bass.

Hiking –

  • Heading west toward Aurora, Pronghorn Natural Area is a peaceful spot to wander around and look for wildlife. Dogs are not allowed.
  • The High Plains and Arapahoe County Fairground trail system is a mix of paved and dirt trails that wind through a nice open space near Aurora. It’s also suitable for bikers.

Accommodations

Outside of hotel

This section contains referral links. If you click through and take action, we may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. 

Comfort Inn & Suites –  Classic accommodation close to shopping and dining in town. Each room comes with a microwave and refrigerator as well as a complimentary hot breakfast each morning.

Willow Tree Country Inn – This cozy bed and breakfast is a little bit outside of town, but its location makes it a peaceful getaway. The property has panoramic views of the Rockies and a spacious outdoor area.

  • Read about the  best hotels in nearby Aurora .
  • Read about the  hotels near the Denver International Airport .

Inside of mexican restaurant

Woody’s Wings 2 Bennett –  Modest, family-owned wing shop with a variety of sauce flavors and other fried foods.

Happy Burrito Mexican Restaurant –  Authentic Mexican food served in a no-frills shop. They’re famous around town for their breakfast burritos.

High Plains Diner –  This cozy diner serves up three meals a day (and breakfast any time you want!). The menu is full of unique twists on traditional American dishes.

Special Events

Vendors at an outdoor festival

Sep – Bennett Days –  This town celebration includes 3 days of fun. Festivities include a Chuck Wagon Dinner, parade, art show, a beer garden, and a magic show.

Dec – Breakfast with Santa –  The community center hosts this annual event to kick off the holiday season. Stop by for a hot breakfast, holiday music, and photos with the man himself.

Activities near Bennett

  • Aurora (23mi)
  • Byers (12mi)
  • Deer Trail (24mi)
  • Denver (36mi)
  • Strasburg (6mi)

Latest in Bennett

image of people walking through a corn maze

8 Captivating Corn Mazes Around Denver

Corn mazes are a favorite activity amongst friends and family to enjoy the best of the…

8 Captivating Corn Mazes Around Denver Read More

Cherry Creek Reservoir Aurora Colorado Sunset

Camping near Aurora, Parker, and Brighton

Denver’s eastern metropolitan neighbors hold several awesome attractions, location advantages and reasons to base camp there.…

Camping near Aurora, Parker, and Brighton Read More

View more Bennett articles

Get In Touch

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer—Terms of Service

Facebook

Things To Do

  • Travel Blog
  • Colorado Activities
  • Colorado Events
  • Colorado Towns
  • Colorado Hotels
  • Colorado Restaurants
  • Colorado Transportation
  • Made in Colorado

Fall Activities

  • Federal Lands
  • Ghost Towns
  • Hot Springs
  • Ski Resorts
  • State Parks
  • Train Rides

Top Things to Do in Bennett, CO - Bennett Attractions

Things to do in bennett.

  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Hidden Gems
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

bennett colorado places to visit

1. Mile High Farms

kiggle303

Bennett Attractions Information

THE BEST Things to Do in Bennett

Things to do in bennett.

  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Hidden Gems
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

bennett colorado places to visit

1. Mile High Farms

kiggle303

Bennett Attractions Information

Top Things to Do in Bennett, CO

Places to visit in bennett.

  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Hidden Gems
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

bennett colorado places to visit

1. Mile High Farms

kiggle303

Bennett Attractions Information

Top Things to Do in Bennett

Things to do in bennett.

  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Hidden Gems
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

bennett colorado places to visit

1. Mile High Farms

kiggle303

Bennett Attractions Information

goColorado

Bennett, Colorado

5 things you should know about bennett, colorado.

Bennett, Colorado is a small town with a lot to offer. From its rich history to its beautiful landscapes, there’s something for everyone in Bennett. Here are 5 things you should know about this charming town.

1. Bennett was founded in 1889 as a stop on the Denver, South Park, and Pacific Railroad. 2. The town was named after Alonzo P. Bennett, the surveyor who laid out the townsite. 3. Bennett is home to the oldest continuously operated hotel in Colorado, the Elk Mountain Hotel. 4. The town is situated on the banks of the South Platte River, which offers superb fishing and camping opportunities. 5. Bennett is within easy driving distance of Denver, making it the perfect place to enjoy all that Colorado has to offer without the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors or you’re interested in exploring Colorado’s rich history, Bennett is the perfect place for you. So come on down and see what this charming town has to offer!

Privacy Overview

Explore Bennett

Plan your trip to bennett: best of bennett tourism.

bennett colorado places to visit

Find flight deals to Bennett

Essential bennett.

bennett colorado places to visit

Bennett Tourism

  • Things To Do in Bennett
  • Bennett Itineraries
  • Bennett Hotels

Bennett Travel Guide & Tips, Colorado

  • North America
  • United States

The Town of Bennett is a Statutory Town in Adams and Arapahoe counties in the U.S. state of Colorado. The town population was 2308 at the 2010 United States Census. Bennett is a part of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Planning a vacation to Bennett in United States? This vacation planner will provide you with all the essential information you need. Bennett is located at a short trip away from Denver a major city in United States. Add Denver to your vacation plan, it has an interesting bunch of activities to do on your visit like Coors Field , Union Station , Sports Authority Field At Mile High . 1-2 days is an ideal duration of visit to Bennett.

Bennett Trip Planner

Plan your customized day by day trip plan for Bennett. Choose from various experinces categories as adventure, romantic and family and kids friendly for your trip using using Bennett trip planner.

  • THINGS TO DO
  • HOW TO REACH
  • TOP RESTAURANTS

hotel-img

Bennett United States (US)

Home » The World » United States » Colorado » Bennett

More details about Bennett in United States (US)

It has timezone Mountain Time Zone (valid in period standard time).

In Bennett live 2.308 natives, considering 2010 census. Bennett zip code is 80102, then if you want to send anything to your family by post this can be done by using 80102 zip code as per description above.

Its dimension is 15 square kilometers so it seems to be quitely quiet place a good destination for travelers that like relaxing places for an economic location on a travel, a calm area without distractions common of big cities. If you stay here you save money because of Bennett low room rates, and for this reason you could have Bennett as basecamp in order to visit all United States and Bennett near things to do.

Bennett height above sea level, or meters above sea level (MASL), is around 1672 mt. That is why this is the ideal trip destination if you and your partner love high areas to travel to for your next vacation and love mountain rails walking while going abroad.

For more info about this city please have a look at their official website http://www.bennett.co.us/ .

Bennett things to do and activities: best trip destination for:

Interactive bennett (united states) map and attractions.

Interactive map of Bennett, Colorado United States (US).

Gravatar Icon

  • Town in Colorado
  • grade  C Overall Grade
  • Rating 3.39 out of 5   23 reviews

Report Card

  • Public Schools grade  C
  • Crime & Safety grade  unavailable
  • Housing grade  C+
  • Nightlife grade  C+
  • Good for Families grade  C
  • Diversity grade  B+
  • Jobs grade  A minus
  • Weather grade  B+
  • Cost of Living grade  C
  • Health & Fitness grade  B minus
  • Outdoor Activities grade  B minus
  • Commute grade  C
  • Arapahoe County

Real Estate

  • Get a Verified Approval Letter (VAL)
  • 24/7 online support
  • Wide range of loan options
  • High customer satisfaction

Home Listings

Homes for sale.

bennett colorado places to visit

Crime & Safety

  • Calculated annually per 100,000 residents
  • Assault No data available   — national   282.7
  • Murder No data available   — national   6.1
  • Rape No data available   — national   40.7
  • Robbery No data available   — national   135.5
  • Burglary No data available   — national   500.1
  • Theft No data available   — national   2,042.8
  • Motor Vehicle Theft No data available   — national   284
  • <10 years 14%
  • 10-17 years 13%
  • 18-24 years 8%
  • 25-34 years 16%
  • 35-44 years 14%
  • 45-54 years 11%
  • 55-64 years 16%
  • 65+ years 9%
  • Master's degree or higher 3% national   13%
  • Bachelor's degree 17% national   21%
  • Some college or associate's degree 36% national   28%
  • High school diploma or equivalent 33% national   26%
  • Less than high school diploma 11% national   11%

Top Public Schools Serving Bennett

Bennett high school.

  • Rating 3.34 out of 5   53 reviews

Bennett Middle School

Legacy options high school.

  • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Bennett Intermediate School

Bennett elementary school, top private schools near bennett, our lady help of christians academy, bethel christian school, working in bennett, similar places.

  • Rating 3.75 out of 5   4 reviews
  • Rating 3.25 out of 5   4 reviews
  • Rating 4 out of 5   2 reviews
  • Rating 4 out of 5   7 reviews

Bennett Reviews

  • Rating 5 out of 5   Excellent 4   reviews ( 17 %)
  • Rating 4 out of 5   Very Good 4   reviews ( 17 %)
  • Rating 3 out of 5   Average 12   reviews ( 52 %)
  • Rating 2 out of 5   Poor 3   reviews ( 13 %)
  • Rating 1 out of 5   Terrible 0   reviews ( 0 %)
  • Current Resident
  • 3 months ago
  • Overall Experience
  • Nov 24 2019
  • May 17 2020

add-to-list

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in colorado.

Colorado's scenic terrain draws millions of travelers looking to get swept up in its natural splendor. With a bevy of cities and towns, each with its own unique outdoor offerings, cultural attractions, things to do and awe-inspiring landscapes, it may be difficult to choose the best place for your next vacation. U.S. News took into account a number of factors, including the variety of attractions, as well as the opinions of experts and travelers, to determine the best places to visit in Colorado. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Glenwood springs, mesa verde national park, breckenridge, steamboat springs, pagosa springs, buena vista, black canyon of the gunnison national park, crested butte, great sand dunes national park and preserve, dinosaur national monument, colorado springs.

bennett colorado places to visit

Take a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park to see for yourself why it is one of the most-visited national parks in the country. Hike among sky-high peaks or the park's 100-plus lakes, or swap your boots for a pair of skis or snowshoes in winter. If you'd rather explore from the comfort of your own vehicle, drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road (open seasonally) and feel on top of the world. At its highest point, the road reaches an elevation of more than 12,000 feet. What's more, this park is ideal for a camping adventure . But book early: A timed entry permit is required in the summer.

bennett colorado places to visit

Colorado's most populous city is also its cultural hub. While you can go just about anywhere in Colorado to find outdoor adventures galore, in Denver you get the best of both worlds. The city is filled with top-notch museums, lively sports venues, prime shopping streets and an unmatched brewery scene. Meanwhile, just outside city limits, you'll enjoy easy access to the Rockies, as well as the photogenic Mount Evans Scenic Byway. For an unforgettable experience, catch a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a unique open-air concert venue with stunning views of Colorado's famous red rocks.

bennett colorado places to visit

Telluride may not be large in size, but it is big on outdoor fun and adventure, which is why it's named one of the best small towns in the USA . Best known for its highly regarded ski slopes, Telluride offers 2,000-plus skiable acres and terrain suitable for everyone from beginners to experts. Meanwhile, hikers and cyclists flood the trails, paragliders soar through the air and festivalgoers attend the town's plethora of food-, music- and film-focused events during the warmer months. For some of Telluride's best panoramas, drive the San Juan Skyway or ride the gondola to Mountain Village.

bennett colorado places to visit

Whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway in the Rocky Mountains or a luxurious spa vacation, this small town in northwestern Colorado fits the bill. Glenwood Springs visitors can soak up some rays while horseback riding, whitewater rafting or hiking the popular Hanging Lake Trail. If you'd like to take the thrills up a notch, make time for Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which features cave tours, an alpine coaster and more. Later, soothe your aching muscles at one of the town's acclaimed spas, which utilize the region's natural hot springs in their treatments.

bennett colorado places to visit

The former home of the Ancestral Pueblo people, Mesa Verde National Park contains about 5,000 of America's best-preserved archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. First-time visitors should prioritize the famous Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Many of the sites can only be accessed by ranger-led tours that may involve quite a bit of walking, climbing and, in some cases, crawling, so travelers should keep their physical health and limitations in mind before visiting. Still, the park's rich history makes the sometimes strenuous journeys well worth the effort.

bennett colorado places to visit

Remnants of Breckenridge's history as a mining hub give the town a distinct aesthetic. The Rocky Mountains that serve as the town's backdrop, the Victorian-era architecture in the Historic District and the year-round festivals and events all contribute to the town's charm. Plus, the locale's thousands of acres of skiable terrain and the area's long ski season make Breckenridge a winter travel destination for the books. When the powder melts, the verdant vegetation that floods the trails make Breck (as locals call it) magical. What's more, the craft beer scene is an attraction in its own right.

bennett colorado places to visit

Powder hounds take note: While it may not be as glamorous as some of its Colorado counterparts, Steamboat Springs is still an excellent destination for a ski vacation . After all, it maintains the nickname of Ski Town, USA. Here, travelers can take advantage of nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain covered in snow so light it's commonly called Champagne Powder snow. Steamboat Springs is equally impressive when it's dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer or brimming with foliage come fall. After a long day of hiking, biking or shredding powder, visitors can head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs to soothe aching muscles with a massage or a soak in a thermal pool.

bennett colorado places to visit

Pagosa Springs' best-known attraction is – you guessed it – its renowned hot springs. Located along the banks of the San Juan River in southwestern Colorado, this small mountain town is home to the world's deepest geothermal hot spring, the Mother Spring aquifer, so it comes as no surprise that travelers flock here looking to soak their stress away. But this alluring Colorado destination has more to offer than just incredible hot springs. Here, travelers can participate in a range of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, fishing and more.  

bennett colorado places to visit

Sitting in southwestern Colorado about 20 miles from the New Mexico border, Durango packs a punch for adventure travelers. Pastimes like hiking, mountain biking and skiing are popular here, and thrill-seekers won't want to miss a white-water rafting tour down the Animas River. Meanwhile, history buffs will love strolling through Durango's vibrant downtown, which boasts a variety of restaurants, art galleries and shops. Another must-do activity is riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Here, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of San Juan National Forest aboard an authentic steam locomotive.

bennett colorado places to visit

With recreational activities galore and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, Buena Vista is one of Colorado's best under-the-radar travel destinations. Spend your time relaxing in Buena Vista's natural hot springs, which are some of the hottest in Colorado. Or, go for a drive along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway for unforgettable mountain views. Meanwhile, if you want something more adventurous, Buena Vista is a great base for hiking 14ers (mountains exceeding 14,000 feet), and you can also try biking, off-roading or white-water rafting. Thanks to Buena Vista's valley location, these activities are typically available year-round.

bennett colorado places to visit

Colorado's version of the Grand Canyon features some of the state's most stunning views. Carved by the Gunnison River millions of years ago, the Black Canyon's more than 2,000-foot depth has impressed spectators for centuries, including the Ute Tribe who once called the canyon home. Now, along with its incredible scenery, parkgoers can enjoy fishing in the Black Canyon's highly regarded waters, climbing its towering rock formations and hiking or skiing its impressive trails. At night, attention shifts from the rocks and river below to the sky above when visitors can stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park.

bennett colorado places to visit

Known as both the last great Colorado ski town and the wildflower capital of Colorado, Crested Butte beckons to outdoorsy types year-round. In winter, skiers and snowboarders will find trails for all skill levels, though the town is most famous for its extreme terrain and steep slopes. When temperatures rise, visitors can trade in their skis or snowboards for mountain bikes to take advantage of Crested Butte's hundreds of miles of bike trails. Arrive in July to see the town burst with color and partake in the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival's activities.

bennett colorado places to visit

Nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can sled down the tallest sand dunes in North America or float down the park's stretch of Medano Creek. Hiking, fat biking and horseback riding are other fun ways to explore the area's diverse ecosystems. And at night, travelers can admire the unfiltered night sky while camping. Great Sand Dunes is open year-round, but keep in mind that winter can be chilly and summer can bring scorching sand and thunderstorms, so parkgoers should plan their trips accordingly.

bennett colorado places to visit

If you're looking to splurge during ski season, Aspen is the place to be. This small town is conveniently tucked between four renowned ski spots – Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk and Aspen Highlands – that offer quality slopes for all levels of skiers. Not only that, but the town features the crème de la crème of luxury resorts, a growing culinary reputation (the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen is held here every summer) and an après-ski scene so appealing it'll be pretty tough to leave.

bennett colorado places to visit

This iconic European-style ski town is a popular haven for celebrities and winter sports enthusiasts. With thousands of acres of snowy trails spread across one of the largest single-mountain resorts in the country, Vail is known for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. But there is more to the town than just its slopes. When the snow melts and the temperatures rise, Vail's Epic Discovery area invites visitors to engage in other outdoor activities like zip lining, rock climbing and mountain coaster rides. Those looking for less adrenaline-inducing entertainment should check out the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and central Vail's boutiques.

bennett colorado places to visit

Feel as if you've journeyed back in time during a visit to Dinosaur National Monument. Spread across Colorado and Utah, this protected area is known for its archaeological treasures. You won't find any dinosaur bones on the Colorado side, but budding archaeologists can test their skills by looking for small sea creature fossils on the Harpers Corner Trail. This side of the park is also a prime spot for outdoor activities like hiking, river rafting, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. For breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons, go for a spin on the Harpers Corner Scenic Drive.

bennett colorado places to visit

Colorado Springs stands out from its mountainous counterparts because it's not a ski destination. But what the city lacks in slopes it more than makes up for in incredible hiking areas like Pikes Peak, the mountain that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful," and magnificent natural landmarks like the Garden of the Gods. Mix that in with a good helping of small-town charm, delectable restaurants and a diverse array of attractions (including the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center), and Colorado Springs has all the makings of a great vacation.

bennett colorado places to visit

Although Boulder is Denver's slightly smaller neighbor, it is no less impressive. With both the Rocky Mountains and the Flatirons in the background, Boulder combines all of the relaxation of an outdoor escape with the energy of a city. Nature lovers will feel right at home while hiking and biking the city's trails or tubing down its stretch of Boulder Creek. Those looking for more urban entertainment can explore Boulder's beer trails or shop and dine at Pearl Street Mall's boutiques and restaurants.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

bennett colorado places to visit

Grand Junction

bennett colorado places to visit

You May Be Interested In

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Family Vacations in the USA for 2024

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Places to Visit in Arizona

bennett colorado places to visit

Best Places to Visit in Texas

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

bennett colorado places to visit

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

bennett colorado places to visit

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

bennett colorado places to visit

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

bennett colorado places to visit

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

bennett colorado places to visit

Enhanced Cost of Living Calculator

Bennett, co climate.

  • EXPLORE BENNETT

Bennett, Colorado gets 15 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.

Bennett averages 47 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.

On average, there are 247 sunny days per year in Bennett. The US average is 205 sunny days.

Bennett gets some kind of precipitation, on average, 80 days per year. Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. In order for precipitation to be counted you have to get at least .01 inches on the ground to measure.

Weather Highlights

Summer High: the July high is around 89 degrees Winter Low: the January low is 18 Rain: averages 15 inches of rain a year Snow: averages 47 inches of snow a year

Bestplaces Comfort Index

8.8 summer - 5.6 winter, you should know.

Many people confuse weather and climate but they are different. Weather is the conditions of the atmosphere over a short period of time, and climate is how the atmosphere is over long periods of time.

Weather is how the atmosphere is behaving and its effects upon life and human activities. Weather can change from minute-to-minute. Most people think of weather in terms of temperature, humidity, precipitation, cloudiness, brightness, visibility, wind, and atmospheric pressure.

Climate is the description of the long-term pattern of weather in a place. Climate can mean the average weather for a particular region and time period taken over 30 years. Climate is the average of weather over time.

Reviews for Bennett

Start Your Review of Bennett

Compare Bennett, cost of living

Best places tools.

  • Interactive Map
  • Take the Best Places Quiz
  • Compare Cities
  • Compare Cost of Living
  • Compare Crime Rates
  • Compare Schools
  • Compare Climates
  • Create Best Places List

About Best Places

  • Create an account
  • Meet the Team
  • Where do we get our data?

Kate Storm standing in front of Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the best places to visit in colorado

Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, sand dunes, and 14ers: the sheer variety of travel destinations that make up any list of the best places to visit in Colorado is magnificent.

Known for its snowcapped peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing, and beyond, Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the coolest states to visit in the USA.

If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this Colorado bucket list is for you.

Here are the coolest places in Colorado to visit!

Table of Contents

Colorado National Parks For Your Bucket List

Cool cities + small towns to visit in co, more of the best places to visit in colorado.

scenic yellow train ride from durango to silverton colorado

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Colorado is home to four stunning national parks to visit–and despite the Centennial State’s reputation for its incredible Rocky Mountain landscapes, each park is incredibly unique and well worth a visit!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcoming more than 3 million visitors each year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the state’s most popular national park, it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Colorado as a whole!

From snowcapped mountains to alpine lakes, and from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has options for all kinds of travelers–the only thing you truly need to justify a visit is an appreciation for alpine beauty.

vertical photo of dream lake in rocky mountains national park hiking trail

Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake, driving the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and checking out Old Fall River Road (either by car or by foot depending on the season).

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible–just be prepared to lace up your cross country skis to visit some of the most popular lakes!

kate storm at emerald lake in rocky mountain national park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Megan of Red Around the World

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park  is an often-overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado–but if you add it to your list of beautiful places in Colorado to visit, there’s no doubt that you’ll be blown away.

It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet deep.  It’s hard to imagine that, even when you’re there looking at it.  It’s easiest to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison which is also where you can access the river at the bottom of the canyon.

There is also access to the North Rim which is perfect if you want to get away from the already meager crowds. 

Keep in mind that though the two rims look close to each other on a map, they’re a couple hours worth of driving apart.

black canyon of the gunnison as seen from above with river to the right, one of the bucket list colorado places to visit

While the park isn’t bursting with hiking trails, there are quite a few to choose from and just as many amazing viewpoints to stop at. 

Keep your eyes peeled for bears while you’re exploring the park.  

Even if you just have a couple of hours, it’s totally worth visiting.  Most of the trails are short, under three miles round-trip. 

The Oak Flat Loop Trail is great for people looking to hike below the rim but not all the way to the river.  It’s two miles round-trip and can be narrow in some places, so be careful. 

Also make sure to drive down to the river, even if just for the experience.

black canyon of the gunnison, one of the national parks in colorado, as seen from viewpoint

Mesa Verde National Park

From James of Parks Collecting

Mesa Verde National Park  is home to 600 cliff dwellings. 

The Ancient Puebloans built their villages in overhangs in the side of steep cliffs and climbed down from above, using hand and footholds carved directly into the cliff. 

Today, you can see many of them from overlooks at the top of the mesa and see some of them up close on guided tours.  Bear in mind that you need to climb down ladders or steep steps to visit them.

view of cliff dwellings in mesa verde national park from inside the cliff

The cliff dwellings are truly incredible to see.  Highlights include Cliff Palace (the largest), Long House, and Balcony House (where you need to crawl through a very narrow tunnel to exit).

Each year, some of the other dwellings are also opened up to small group visits, with a ranger as a guide.  You need to hike to these, and often climb down the original hand and footholds (with the help of modern-day chains to make it safer). 

Whether you see the cliff dwellings from overlooks, on a guided tour, or a small group back-country hike, you are sure to be fascinated by them.

pueblo of mesa verde national park as seen from afar

Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Rai of A Rai of Light

Great Sand Dunes National Park, found in the Saguache and Alamosa Counties of southern Colorado, encompasses more than 100,000 acres of open-air adventure.

The fascination not only lies with the tallest sand dunes in North America, but also the surrounding landscape that features forests, snow-capped mountains, and rivers.

There is so much to do that 3 days is the minimum number of days to spend in and around the surrounding area. Top sights in the preserve include High Dune, Zapata Falls, Medano Pass.

young woman hiking on a sand dune in great sand dunes national park, a bucket list colorado travel destinations

Sandboarding is a popular activity and should not be missed. Other activities worth trying include sledding, horseback riding, and hiking to catch a beautiful sunrise .

The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall.

The closest town is Mosca, but the park is easily reached from any major city as the San Luis Valley Airport is a mere 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

great sand dunes national park with snowcapped mountains in the background

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of Estes Park easily ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalance of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any Colorado bucket list.

bennett colorado places to visit

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, check out one of the town’s breweries, and pay a visit to the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.

Even if you don’t check in, the hotel is still worth a peak!

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

  • Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
  • Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

group of elk in the river in front of estes park visitors center. observing wildlife is one of the fun things to do in estes park co

Crested Butte

From Martina + Jurgen of PlacesofJuma

Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended places to visit in Colorado.

It is famous as a ski resort and is also considered to be the capital of wildflowers, making Crested Butte a fantastic year-round travel destination in Colorado.

In winter, the challenging ski slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. The cross-country ski trails, which are located around the city, add a special beauty to the unique landscape.

wildflowers in the mountains at sunset near crested butte, one of the best places to see in colorado

In the warm months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the unique nature of the region and the splendor of the flowers.

But not only is the surrounding nature gorgeous, but the town is also pretty too!

Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town, and walking around, you will discover picturesque historical buildings, great restaurants, and plenty of mountain views.

We also recommend a visit in July, when the famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

  • Nordic Inn: This comfortable hotel is a great place to rest after exploring. There is a Great Room with complimentary games and views over Mt. Crested Butte, there is also a large hot tub to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and really cosy.
  • Public House Lofts: As the name suggests these rooms are over a really great bar called Public House, perfectly located for getting home quickly at the end of the evening! The rooms are modern, comfortable and really well designed. Definitely a great spot to stay in Crested Butte.

view of yellow wildflowers in colorado mountains with livestock in the foreground and a town in the background

Colorado’s capital city is arguably one of the trendiest and fastest-growing cities in the country–and given that Denver offers a fantastic array of things to do while also being located within proximity of epic mountain hikes, it’s no surprise.

Known for its breweries, parks, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park as well as popular mountain towns like Boulder and Estes Park, Denver makes a fantastic weekend getaway destination .

aerial view of denver from above, one of the best colorado places to visit

While you’re in Denver, consider catching a game at Coor’s Field, seeing a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, strolling down the 16th Street Mall, stopping by Larimer Square, and–of course–hitting up a few of those popular breweries.

If you’re looking to add some museum-hopping to your Denver itinerary , the city also has you covered, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique options like the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

photo of empty red rocks amphitheatre in denver co

Steamboat Springs

From Liz of Peanuts or Pretzels

Steamboat Springs might be a popular ski town in Colorado and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here can feel less like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation and more like an adventure.

This is a town with a vibrant local community, humorous traditions, and lively Western history.

A four-season destination, there’s plenty of things to do year-round in Steamboat. But for many, winter is the most magical time.

historic barn covered in snow in steamboat springs co, one of the best vacation spots in colorado

Winter sports are everywhere, not just the main ski resort.

The locals even have their own hill in the center of town and during the Winter Carnival each February, the town comes alive with ski contests (complete with light-up costumes and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures, and parades where horses pull thrill-seekers on skis over jumps right through the middle of town!

After all of that winter fun, take a soothing dip in one of the  hot springs around town , such as Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural scenery tucked back in a canyon. 

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

  • For a premium place to stay, book into the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas . This is a classic excellent quality large hotels with all the facilities you would expect. Guaranteed great stay
  • Chalet Val d’Isere is also a fabulous option but with more of a homely vibe. There are just a few rooms and it is a classic ski lodge style cabin complete with plenty of cozy features.

strawberry hot springs in steamboat springs colorado in the snow, one of the best places to visit in colorado

Breckenridge

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rockies with non-stop activities and scenic beauty.

Visit the craft breweries and fabulous restaurants in this town surrounded by mountain peaks. Breckenridge chefs feature local farm-to-table ingredients. In Breckenridge’s historic district you can learn the story of this old mining town.

Breckenridge is famous for its world-class cross country and alpine skiing, making it one of the most classic Colorado vacation spots. The Breckenridge ski resort boasts 5 mountains and 187 trails.

downtown breckenridge on a snowy night

In the summer you will find wildflowers as you hike into an alpine meadow or a cascading waterfall. In fall, the blazing colors of the aspens are spectacular.

Breckenridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing, and biking are a few of the outdoor adventures to try. Hikers will love the hundreds of nearby trails.

Don’t miss a chance to take the free gondola ride up into the mountains. It’s not unusual to see moose or a bald eagle from your vantage point high above the meadows.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

  • The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.
  • Mountain Valley Lodge : A great Marriott resort with all the expected facilities, rooms are really spacious and all have great views of the mountains. There is also an onsite spa, swimming pool and ski storage.

downtown breckenridge colorado on a summer day, one of the best bucket list colorado travel destinations

Glenwood Springs

From Mark of Summer Camp Hub

Glenwood Springs is a city right by the Rocky Mountains famous for being home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado .

It’s renowned as an excellent Colorado vacation spot for just about everyone, including families and would-be adventurers. 

If you’re looking to soak in hot springs, you need to visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs. There are 16 hot springs you can enjoy while getting a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking to go hiking, then the Glenwood Canyon is readily available with hikes like the Grizzly Creek and the Hanging Lake. 

long exposure of a waterfall at hanging lake colorado

There are also plenty of other outdoor thrilling activities you can do like paragliding and rafting.

If you’re visiting as a family, there are plenty of outdoor kid-friendly activities children can participate in.

With such a huge opportunity for children to receive an outdoor education, it’s no surprise that there are numerous summer camps in the state  and city. 

Apart from outdoor adventures to partake in, be sure to visit the famous comedy shows that go on at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

  • Glenwood Springs B&B: Fancy staying in a piece of history? This quaint B&B is over 100 years old and is exceptionally well maintained. Many of the rooms have deep claw-foot bathtubs and if that isn’t enough water for you there is a huge jacuzzi for guests.
  • Hanging Lake Inn: For something more classic this Inn is a great option. Facilities are fresh and modern, and there is a lovely porch area with views of the hills.

aerial view of glenwood springs co, one of the best colorado vacation destinations

Manitou Springs

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Manitou Springs is a historic city located just outside of Colorado Springs with roots tracing back to the Pikes Peak gold rush.

It is the perfect Colorado bucket list destination for some small-town charm, natural beauty, culture, and fun!

A visit to Manitou Springs would not be complete without taking a  self-guided walking tour of the springs. There are eight springs in total along a 1.4-mile trail through town, each with its own unique mineral content.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, authentic relocated Pueblos, is another must-visit spot in Manitou Springs.

manitou cliff dwellings as seen from the side

For some more hiking, climb the Incline near Pikes Peak for some stunning views, or if you prefer not to hike, drive the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit.

After a long day of exploring, find plenty of food and bar options in downtown Manitou Springs.

If traveling with kids, be sure to check out the world-famous Penny Arcade for games, kiddie rides, and prizes! And finally stop in at Pike’s Peak Ice Cream for some tasty treats and ice cream! 

Where to Stay in Manitou Springs

  • Cliff House: Looking like something out of a fairy story this fabulous hotel has wonderful old-world charm, pretty views, and some rooms even have working fireplaces!
  • Magnuson Grand : For more of a classic modern hotel this is a great option. The facilities are lovely and there are mountain views throughout. It is also minutes away from the waterfalls and Garden of the Gods.

red pikes peak train climbing the mountain, one of the coolest places in colorado

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Telluride is a small but mighty town with colorful mining history and unparalleled landscapes that draw visitors from all over the country. 

Tucked away in the box canyon in San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Telluride is definitely an exclusive destination as it’s not easy to get to. It takes about 5-6 hours from Denver to get here, and the local airport doesn’t have big commercial flights. 

Telluride is a scenic destination that is renowned for its year-round outdoor opportunities, gorgeous nature, and a vibrant art scene, so it’s not just skiing that brings so many people here (Although Telluride does have some great slopes). 

Telluride also offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado from the iconic Blue Lakes a short drive away to Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail that can be accessed from downtown Telluride.

blue lake in colorado with mountains in the background, near one of the best colorado vacation spots telluride

For an amazing experience, take a free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village from where you can get a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains. 

Visitors also enjoy an ice rink at Hotel Madeline or get a tour of the area to learn about its history of silver mining.

Downtown Telluride is home to a big art scene with several galleries and you can easily participate in one of the organized tours. 

Where to Stay in Telluride

  • Mountain Lodge: This classic chalet style aparthotel offers wonderful fully equipped, spacious apartments. It is nestled in the mountains and has onsite spa facilities and a great restaurant.
  • The Bivvi Hostel: Don’t let the hostel name fool you! The facilities here are excellent are there is more to offer than crowded dorm-rooms. Private rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Shared facilities onsite feature billiards, a hot tub, garden and pretty terrace.

downtown telluride colorad with mountains in the background, one of the best colorado travel destinations

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the state.  Known for its world-class ski runs and luxurious accommodations, Vail is a sought-after destination worldwide. 

You can travel to Vail year-round but the best time to visit Vail is in the winter.  With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is not only one of the biggest in the United States but it’s also extremely popular. 

ski slopes covered in snow in vail colorado, one of the best vacation spots in colorado

From the legendary back bowls to the bunny hill, Vail mountain offers something for every ability level. 

Vail Village is full of boutique shops, fun bars, and tasty restaurants.  One of the best bars in Vail Village is Vendetta’s.  Come here for a fun environment, apres drinks, and cheap pizza.  

If you are looking for more of an intimate dining experience reserve a table at one of the several on-mountain restaurants like Game Creek. 

Whatever it is that peaks your interest, Vail, Colorado is a Colorado travel destination for the whole family to enjoy.  

Where to Stay in Vail

  • Lodge at Lionscreek: The location for this hotel is perfect, it is right next to the transit point for the ski lifts. Ski equipment is also available for rental on site if you don’t bring your own. The facilities are excellent, rooms have views over Gore Creek and are all private apartment style with their own kitchen facilities, some of the larger ones also have beautiful dining spaces in case you want to host!
  • Tivoli Lodge: For a hotel set up this is a great option, rooms are fabulous and quite large. The hotel itself is a few meters away from several slope and ski lifts, it also has an onsite cocktail lounge for après-ski!

vail colorado as seen from above at sunset in winter in colorado

Pagosa Springs

From Agnes of The Van Escape

Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado.

It is worth adding it to the  road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

The town is famous for its magnificent thermal springs, thanks to which it owes its name. In Ute, “pagosah” means “healing waters.” Pagosa is the home of the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.

thermal spring that is orange in pagosa springs

So, the best thing you can do in this town is soaked up the hot springs and relax.

The mineral-rich waters fill the baths at The Springs Resort & Spa, The Overlook Hot Springs, and Healing Waters Resort & Spa. Each of them is open to the public.

In addition to the hot springs resorts, there are interesting and picturesque hiking trails around Pagosa Springs. You can admire fabulous waterfalls like Treasure Falls or Piedra Falls. Moreover, rafting and kayaking trips are popular on the San Juan River.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs

  • The Nightingale Motel: Well located with pretty views and excellent rooms, complete with private balcony. There is also an onsite bar to refresh after visiting the hot springs.
  • For a homely self contained option the Fireside Cabins are fabulous. Decor is in keeping with the mountain theme and the kitchens are well equipped with everything you need.

waterfall near pagosa springs in colorado

Colorado Springs

From Jenny of Limitless Hiker

Spend a weekend or even a long weekend exploring Colorado Springs . It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of this small town in Colorado.

Colorado Springs is well known for its Manitou Springs Incline which gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. Whether you’re looking for a tough workout to start training for Colorado 14ers (14,000-foot mountains), or just want to challenge yourself, this incline trail is a must.

Colorado Springs is also known for the beautiful Garden of the Gods park.

rock formations in garden of the gods co at sunset, one of the most beautiful places in colorado

The Garden of the Gods is known for its bright orange rock formations. It’s a popular spot among rock climbers or you can spend some time biking around or even hiking around.

Next on the list of must-see places in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Which is the only 14er in this area. You have the option of hiking to the top, which is 26.2 miles round trip with around 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or you could also hike one way and have someone pick you up at the top. The other alternative is to drive to the top. 

After you’ve had a good workout from all of that hiking, head over to the SunWater Spa and soak in their hot springs. This is a rewarding treat after a hard workout.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

  • The Lodge at Flying Horse is a stunning option for your stay in Colorado Springs. The resort is a European-style 18-hole golf course with views across the grounds and incredible facilities.
  • To stay in the heart of Downtown book into Kinship Landing . Rooms are clean and stylish, and if you are on a budget they have great dorm rooms available.

aerial view of historic building in colorado springs

From Ankita of My Travelling Stilettos

Nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the most famous ski resort town in the US and one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Long snowy winters thanks to the elevation of 8000 ft and proximity of four world-renowned Ski Resorts made it the favorite ski destination for celebrities and private citizens alike.

It is situated 200 miles away from Denver and can be reached easily by road.

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding are the most popular activities to do in the winter.

downtown aspen colorado in winter with snow in the background

Not an adventure junkie? Explore Aspen town.

Visit Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerom, catch glimpses of annual film and music festivals or experience a fine dining meal from the plethora of world-class restaurants.

Spring and falls are the ideal time to take mountain gondola rides to the top of Elks Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Aspen has many hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy when it is not snowing.

Where to Stay in Aspen

  • Limelight Hotel is a superb option in Aspen, and great value for money. There is a hot tub, outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace to enjoy in warmer months. Rooms are spacious and many include kitchenettes.
  • The W also has a fabulous hotel here in Aspen with all the top range facilities you would expect. Rooms are excellent with luxury details, such as fluffy bathrobes and towels. There are also bikes available for free use should you want to explore Aspen on wheels.

maroon bells near aspen co, one of the prettiest places in colorado

Grand Junction

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking to get beyond Colorado’s famous ski towns and find some  cheaper places in Colorado to visit that are still worthy of a Colorado bucket list? Look no further than Grand Junction.

Located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado rivers, Grand Junction is such a beautiful place that offers everything from natural scenic views to Colorado adventures without burning a hole in your pocket.

It is just a short drive away from Utah and around 245 miles away from Denver. Not only for outdoor adventures but this popular Colorado town is also known as Colorado’s Wine County as it is home to many wineries.

rocky landscape of colorado national monument, a colorado bucket list destination

From exploring historic downtown to wine tasting and hiking nearby trails, you will find plenty of things to do in Grand Junction.

Discover Grand Junction’s historic downtown district which is filled with varieties of mixed art galleries, sculptures, local boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Next, visit the Colorado National Monument, where you just may think that you’ve been transporated to the rocky landscape of southern Utah.

Located just a short drive from downtown, these natural stunning landscapes of red rock formations will leave you awestruck.

Grand Junction is also a great place for wine lovers. If you visit this place in summer or spring, don’t miss a wine tasting tour. Enjoy the views of the vineyards while sipping on some of the best quality wines.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction

  • Castle Creek Manor: A lovely B&B with a friendly homely vibe and mountain views. Some rooms have balconies, perfect for taking in the fresh air.
  • Grand River Inn: With spacious rooms and rustic decor this is a lovely choice for Grand Junction

aerial view of grand junction colorado best places to visit

From Krystianna of Delightfully Denver

One of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado is the town of Golden!

This town has deep-rooted wild west vibes and is home to some amazing attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting this state. Plus,  one day in Golden  is all you need.

Even though Denver is home to Coors Field, Golden is actually where Coors Brewery is located.

The brewery hosts tours for the public, and you can even catch a shuttle bus from downtown Golden to easily get there if you’re traveling without a car.

sunset over golden co as seen from a mountain ledge

Golden is also one of the best towns near Denver for hiking. There are a few mountains to hike here, including Lookout Mountain and Table Mountain, and both are equally great.

Downtown Golden is lovely too. There’s a huge “Welcome to Golden” sign that gets decorated for the holidays. You can find a bunch of local shops and restaurants throughout downtown Golden like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado and want to visit a small western town, Golden is the perfect place!

Where to Stay in Golden

  • Table Mountain Inn: With mountain views and rustic decor this is a great place to stay in Golden
  • The Silk Pincushion: As expected with such a quirky name this adorable hotel is a charming place to stay in Golden, perfect for a home style welcome.

downtown golden colorado decorated for chirstmas at night

From Corritta of It’s a Family Thing

One of the best-kept secrets of Colorado is Canon City. I know you may be wondering what makes this one of the best places in Colorado, and that’s the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Only an hour away from Colorado Springs, Canon City is a small town with a big bridge. The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspended bridge in the United States. The bridge is over 900 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is a sight to see and even more amazing to walk. Along with walking across the over 1200 footbridge, you can also ride the gondola across the gorge, zipline, or fly on the royal rush sky coaster.

royal gorge bridge in canon city, one of the best vacation spots in colorado

As if that wasn’t enough, you can head down to the gorge and enjoy a train ride along the Arkansas River. You can relax and have dinner while learning more about Canon City.

If you are up for an adventure, you can raft on the Arkansas River. Take of the waters while taking in the beautiful scenic views.

In the spring, you can enjoy the music and blossom festival, which is a celebration of the upcoming cherry and apple crop.

Canon City is the perfect small-town with diners, shops, boutiques, and few traffic lights. Be sure to stop at Julian’s Taco Shop downtown; you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay in Canon City

  • Hampton Inn: For good simple accommodation this is a great choice in Canon City. It is also walking distance to Royal Gorge Bridge.

arkansas river in canon city in the fall

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

Aurora is one of the best places in Colorado. You find the city to the east of Denver.

There are lots of great things to do and see in the city of Aurora. For example, there are a lot of outdoor activities and there is beautiful nature.

One of the best things to do in Aurora is going to Cherry Creek State Park. This is a beautiful park with lots of places with water. It is the perfect place for a relaxing walk while seeing the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Another great thing about Cherry Greek State Park is that there are many water activities. Besides that, another great thing to do in Aurora is visiting the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This is a very interesting museum to visit.

Also, you should go to Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. This is a very large outdoor amphitheater where many events throughout the year take place.

Where to Stay in Aurora

  • Woolley’s Classic Suites : With old-world touches and mountain views this is a great option for your stay in Aurora.

white pelicans in cherry creek resevoir with mountains in the background in aurora co

Mount Evans

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If standing on the summit of a 14er is on your Colorado bucket list, don’t miss a trip to Mount Evans.

You can reach the 14,265-foot summit of this mountain in multiple ways, so you get to decide how hard you want to work to get to the top.

Mount Evans is located about 60 miles west of Denver, along Mount Evans Scenic Byway (aka Highway 5), which is the highest paved road in the whole country.

You can actually drive it straight to the top with only a short stroll to the true summit from the parking lot.

view of rocky mountains from summit of mount evans co

For the extra bragging rights and experience of hiking a 14er , pull off earlier on the road and park at Summit Lake trailhead.

From there, hike approximately 4.5 miles round trip (with 2300 feet of elevation gain) to get to the summit of Mount Evans.

If you prefer pedal power, you can bike to the summit as well.

Be aware that the road to the trailhead and summit is closed in winter, so plan to visit Mount Evans in spring, summer, or fall.

Where to Stay in Mount Evans

  • The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in nearby Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.

mountain goat on top of mount evans co

From Jesal of Tourist to Travellers

Grand Lake Colorado, the largest natural lake in Colorado is a picturesque sight with snow-capped mountains and a breathtaking backdrop of the wild Rocky Mountains, and it ranks among the best Colorado vacation spots!

At 8300 feet above sea level, the scenery is unmatched and the sprawling greenery is soothing to one’s eyes.

sunset near the docks in grand lake colorado vacation spots

It’s also an ideal basecamp for the adventure seeker.

While visiting Grand Lake, be sure to take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, relax on the beach, take a few hikes to enjoy the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

You could hire a cozy cabin in the woods and spend some time with your loved ones.

If you’re visiting this beautiful place in Colorado during winter, consider trying out skiing or snowboarding during your trip.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

  • Grand Lake Townhome : This fully equipped self-catered holiday home is great for small groups or a couple if you want plenty of space! There is a wonderful deck with great views, it is even known to spot Moose right in front.
  • Grand Lake Lodge: For catered options with the same cabin feel is this lodge right in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is also a hot tub and pool available to use.

red kayak in grand lake co

Willow Lakes

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Willow Lakes in Colorado brings the drama of the Colorado Gore Range to life.

If you’re up for a challenging hike that makes up for every drop of sweat with fantastic scenery, this is definitely one of the best places in Colorado to please your adventurous soul!

Known for its rugged trails, fantastic mountain views, and jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes (one which is backdropped by an impressive series of gendarmes, the Zodiac Spires), Willow Lakes will greet you every step of the way with yet another wonderful view (usually better than the last!).

colorado hiking trail with a pink wildflower on the left side of the trail

Another highlight? The entire trail is lined with flowers, which makes it one of the best  wildflower hikes in Colorado !

One of the coolest things to do at Willow Lakes (aside from dropping your jaw to the ground at the scenery) is camping in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Willow Lakes

There are several campsites along the last mile of the trail. Few things in life are as amazing as spending a night under the stars here!

4 photos of natural beauty in colorado, black and red text on a white background reads "25 beautiful places colorado"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado”

There is a flaw in this article, Grand Lake is a very nice small mountain town. And yes there is a lake called Grand Lake, but the big lake is called Lake Granby.

Not a flaw. Lake Granby is man-made. The article states that Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO, which is in fact, true.

I can’t believe Ouray wasn’t on the list.

Tourist from back east has visited Ouray several times. Great area to visit, hike and view mountains. Definitely an oversite! Friendly. Great camping nearby Norman and Linda

This brings back memories. Thank you so much.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

A ‘cowboy ski town’ where high earners can’t afford a home faces a housing battle

Image:

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. — Despite offering a salary of $167,000, the city of Steamboat Springs can’t find a head of human resources who can afford a place to live in the remote Colorado community surrounded by ranches and famous for training Olympic athletes.

At the Steamboat hospital, doctors willing to pay more than $1 million for a home have been repeatedly outbid by all-cash, out-of-town buyers, and housing costs have caused some positions to go unfilled for more than two years. The local ski resort has been leasing a hotel for its employees to live in as the homes they once rented are increasingly turned into short-term rentals for visitors.

“Houses used to be for employees and hotels for guests. Now houses are for guests and hotels are for employee housing,” said Loryn Duke, director of communications for the Steamboat ski resort. “We have a lot of great staff who are early in their careers or have young families, but they just aren’t able to put down those roots.”

In Steamboat, along with other mountain towns and destination communities across the country, a pandemic-fueled real estate boom driven by remote workers, second-home buyers and short-term rental investors has caused home prices to nearly double. Those prices have shown few signs of easing, despite rising interest rates and a push for remote workers to return to the office, leaving even high-income professionals struggling to find housing in small, rural communities across the country.

“I know that it’s so hard for folks outside of mountain or resort communities to even wrap their heads around, but housing is just so through the roof that unless you’re extremely wealthy, it’s unattainable,” said Margaret Bowes, executive director of the Colorado Association of Ski Towns.

But addressing the problem has created a predicament of its own, dividing residents in a battle over how to provide more housing and who should pay for it.

Local governments and state legislatures, including those in Utah and Virginia , have been at odds over restrictions on short-term rentals like Airbnbs, and ballot initiatives to add taxes to those rentals have had mixed results at the polls. When it comes to building more housing, residents have mounted opposition to some efforts over concerns about everything from traffic congestion to wildlife migration patterns.

In Steamboat, the latest battle lines have been drawn over a 534-acre ranch that the city’s housing authority purchased with a $24 million anonymous donation. Under the current proposal , the housing authority would use state and federal grants and proceeds from a recently passed tax on short-term rentals to build more than 2,200 housing units in phases. Sale and rental of the properties would be restricted to residents who meet a certain income threshold, work locally, and plan to live in the unit full-time.

Image:

“In this environment where there’s always going to be significant amounts of demand, we have to deal with it on the supply side, and our supply side just has not kept up year over year over year over year,” said Jason Peasley, director of the Yampa Valley Housing Authority, which would oversee the development.

The project, called Brown Ranch, has been met with opposition from a group of local residents who have raised concerns about its financing and the impact on traffic and local infrastructure, along with what it could mean for the character of the community.

During a city council meeting in October that stretched into the early-morning hours, dozens of residents spoke for and against the project, with supporters pleading for affordable housing and opponents urging the city to scale back the plans or take more time to study the impact. In the end, a divided city council voted to approve the Brown Ranch plan. But opponents collected more than 1,000 signatures to get the development placed on the ballot on March 26, leaving the final decision up to voters.

Jim Engelken, who has lived in Steamboat since 1979 and previously served on the city council, has been helping organize the opposition. Engelken said he sees a need for more affordable housing but would like to see the development downsized or grow at a slower pace.

“Yes, we need affordable housing, no question,” Engelken said. “It needs to be smaller to start with, it needs to have some ability to generate its own way, its own money.”

He said he is concerned that the city won’t have enough funds for the planned infrastructure, like parks and public transit, and that the projected 6,000 people who will ultimately live at the development — the majority of whom are expected to move there from out of town — will add to traffic congestion and create a need for more water infrastructure.

“It’s an overreach, it’s too big, it’s too much, it’s too expensive, it causes too many problems for the existing city,” said Engelken. “We’re concerned that the infrastructure won’t be in place in this new, large, separate portion of our city, and it will create a second-class neighborhood. That the people living there will be treated like second-class citizens who don’t have access to public transportation or city parks, and we don’t know how many of them are coming from outside.”

With a population of around 13,000, Steamboat has prided itself on its small-town, Western feel. While housing has always been a struggle for entry-level and hourly workers, Steamboat had been viewed as relatively affordable for middle-income professionals compared to other mountain towns, like Vail, Colorado, or Jackson, Wyoming.

“Steamboat has always been known as a cowboy ski town. It’s real authentic,” said Steamboat City Manager Gary Suiter. “And the real estate prices had not gotten crazy like everywhere else. Well, that ended with the pandemic.”

Since 2020, single-family home prices have increased about 80% to $1.8 million on average, and all real estate sales, including condos, increased 64% to $1.1 million, according to data compiled by Jon Wade, a local realtor. For existing homeowners, those rising sale prices have caused property taxes to shoot up, with the average tax assessment up 86%, Wade said.

That’s put homeownership largely out of reach for most people making less than $200,000 a year. And even for those who can afford a home at that price, the competition for housing is so fierce given the low inventory that those without all-cash offers are often losing out, said local realtors.

“We are seeing across all segments of the market even high-paid professionals, they’re turning down jobs because they spend a little time looking at housing costs and they can’t do it,” said Christy Belton, who has been selling real estate in Steamboat for 20 years and whose family has been in the community for five generations.  “The people who are coming here are paying a million dollars for an entry-level house — a totally entry-level, 50-year-old house.”

Steamboat isn’t alone in its struggles. As demand shot up during the pandemic, so did prices in more high-profile destination towns like Aspen, Colorado, and Park City, Utah. With even wealthy homebuyers priced out of those markets, they began looking to more off-the-beaten-path locations.

In Driggs, Idaho, which used to be an affordable-housing refuge for workers in more pricey Jackson Hole, average home prices have also gone up around 80% to $735,000 since the start of the pandemic, according to data from Zillow. Woodstock, New York, has seen prices increase 78% to more than $600,000 on average amid an influx of buyers from New York City. In Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a popular resort community in the Great Smoky Mountains but not one known as a hot housing market, home values have risen more than 80% to an average of $480,000.

Houses dot a hillside in Steamboat Springs, Colo.,

For the city of Steamboat, the high housing costs have caused two job candidates to turn down a position overseeing the town’s human resources and risk management because they were unable to find a place to live despite the six-figure salary, said Suiter. Even Suiter’s daughter and son-in-law, with well-paying jobs and a home in Denver, had to abandon their plans to move to Steamboat after the pandemic because the town he runs had become too expensive for them.

The main hospital for the region, UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center, has had positions for mammography technologists go unfilled for more than two years. Even for its highest-paying positions, like doctors and administrators, housing has been a struggle.

“No income earner is immune. Even your top earners with physician pay ranges are sitting in my office saying, ‘I don’t know if I can afford to live here,’” said the hospital’s president, Soniya Fidler.  “I think that probably every week there’s someone who comes back and tells me we lost someone because of housing.”

Sanaya Sturm, the nursing manager at the hospital’s cancer center, is among those hospital employees who have been struggling. When Sturm moved to Steamboat in October 2020, her family of four sold their 3,600-square-foot house in Denver and planned to temporarily live in a 1,500-square-foot rental for $3,350 a month until they found a place to purchase in Steamboat.

At the time she began her search, the average home price was within her budget with the money from the sale of her Denver home and the income from her and her husband, who works remotely as a product manager. But as Sturm began her search for a new home, so did hundreds of out-of-town buyers looking to relocate to Steamboat or buy a second home.

“I can say confidently that I’m now priced out,” said Sturm. “We had the means in the early-2021 price range, but unfortunately I don’t think that’s an option for us right now as things stand with the interest rates and the price of housing.”

Sturm said she was outbid on more than a dozen homes, often by all-cash, out-of-town buyers putting in bids as much as $100,000 over the asking price. She saw one home she was outbid on put up for rent shortly after the sale closed for $7,500 a month.

“It’s really kind of a knife in the gut that’s being turned,” she said.

To address the problem, the hospital has gone into the residential real estate business and is building 42 apartments with rent that will be capped at around 30% of the employee’s income. While the hospital could be spending the money it is investing in housing instead on new patient facilities or updated equipment, Fidler said the hospital has little choice unless it is going to cut back on the services it provides because of a shortage of staff.

“It is hard because we are here to deliver health care, we’re not here to deliver houses. Usually, if we have the dollars to spend, it is on state-of-the-art equipment and upgrading our facilities,” Fidler said. “But we don’t want to have to close services, especially because we can’t staff for it.”

At stake, residents say, isn’t just the fate of their own personal lives or businesses, but the larger character of the community where they says they’re more likely to run into ranchers and Olympic skiers than celebrities or billionaires around town.

“You come downtown and it’s full of normal people, which is one of the primary attractions here. We’re still very authentic,” said Suiter. “That’s one of our biggest threats is that we become so exclusive that we lose our character.”

bennett colorado places to visit

Shannon Pettypiece is senior policy reporter for NBC News digital.

AFAR

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Y ou could spend decades-as I have-exploring Colorado's stunning scenery and top attractions and still have more to see and do. No single trip can cover everything that makes the state a traveler's dream destination. AFAR's roundup of things to see and do in Colorado offered 16 tips to get you started, including driving the peak-to-peak scenic byway, visiting Denver Art Museum, and soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs. However, if you want to hit the highlights, here are your main targets, divided up by season.

The best places to visit in Colorado in fall

Colorado is spectacular year-round, but autumn's colors and temperatures make it a particularly magical time to visit.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Visiting the dunes typically means overnighting at the park's campground , because few accommodations exist near this remote spot some 230 miles south of Denver. But campers are rewarded with dusk and dawn's light shows on the sand dunes, which ripple beneath the sawtooth Sangre de Cristo mountains. Summers are scorching, but in fall, sand surfaces remain comfortable all day. Scramble across the dunes, or rent a sandboard to surf the slopes like waves.

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton is the quintessential Colorado getaway for those who can afford it ($1,400 per night is typical). Guests cozy into hand-built log cabins that combine historic patina with western art and worldly comforts like sustainably made beds and linens. Rates include food and drink that make every meal feel special-think roasted pork with charred leek grits followed by poached rhubarb panna cotta-but the steaming springs are this getaway's raison d'être. Views from the rustic yet luxe bathhouse showcase aspen groves that turn amber in autumn, and one guest cabin (Well House) includes its own spring-fed soaking tub.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Most of this park's 4.3 million annual visitors flock here in summer, so I go in September for fewer traffic backups on Trail Ridge Road (a must-do drive traversing treeless alpine tundra). Fall is also mating season for the park's elk herd, and the possibility of hearing bulls' distinctive bugles adds extra magic to any hike. I always glimpse elk along the Moraine Park Loop, a 5.5-mile circuit that can be shortened to preference.

Best places to visit in Colorado in winter

Snow envelopes much of the state in the winter months, turning urban areas into winter wonderlands and promising world-class outdoor activities.

Meow Wolf Convergence Station

In fall 2023, Denver's fun house of immersive art installations launched Sips (With a Z), a cocktail bar and lounge dedicated to providing "a sanctuary of chill amidst the hubbub of quantum travel." Mirrored walls reflect a mashup of classical sculpture and graffiti art, and vintage furniture provides myriad perches for pondering the installation's experiential art. The bar is only open to Meow Wolf Denver visitors and event guests. While the previous art triggered sight, sound, and touch, the new lounge also titillates our sense of taste.

Sure, it's far from major cities, but I wager that the only winter enclaves with mountain vistas that rival Telluride's are in the Alps. These jagged southwest Colorado slopes offer scenery so jawdropping, I always feel dazzled, regardless of the snow conditions. And several mountaintop eateries showcase the splendor. Perched at 11,966 feet, Alpino Vino ranks as the highest restaurant in North America and serves Italian food and wine specialties within a cozy stone and log cabin. More tableside panoramas (and an award-winning wine list) await at Allred's at 10,551 feet.

Silverthorne

Once little more than a refueling stop for motorists traveling Interstate 70, Exit 205 is now an appealing home base for three nearby Colorado ski resorts (Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Breckenridge) and a destination in its own right. Stay at Hotel Indigo , the chain's first mountain property housing an upscale tequila bar and indoor swimming pool. Go snowshoeing or Nordic skiing at Raven Golf Club (free to the public; rent gear at Gore Range Sports) and enjoy après at the Bluebird Market food hall , where weekends find live bands entertaining drinkers at the central bar.

Best places to visit in Colorado in spring

Visitor numbers drop during the spring, but Colorado still puts on a show as flowers bloom and the arts scene wows guests.

Casa Bonita

Coloradoans Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of the South Park animated TV series) spent $40 million to renovate this Denver icon of Mexican food and carnivalesque stunts. Summer 2023 kicked off its much-anticipated reopening. Diners (up to 2,100 of them, at capacity) still line up with trays for meals, now designed by James Beard–nominated chef Dana Rodriguez. Cliff diving continues in the waterfall-fed pool, and the multi-level dining room delivers more spectacle than ambiance.

Crowds taper but deals abound during this destination's shoulder season. April and May are when Aspen's celebrated restaurants often offer discounted menus and drink specials, and at these elevations (the Snowmass base village sits at 8,104 feet), snow blankets the slopes well beyond the resorts' mid-April closing date, making for prime ski conditions-and rowdy parties. At Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro , the springtime ritual includes uncorking staggering quantities of champagne on the summit-ringed outdoor deck.

Idyllic weather and blooming cactus make spring my favorite time to visit Colorado's canyon country, and Fruita is the best home base. From here, it's a 15-minute drive to the sculpted red rock sandstone spires of Colorado National Monument and 5 minutes to world-famous mountain bike trails. Fruita's walkable downtown includes the Hot Tomato , delivering Jersey-style pizza that's good as gospel. Live music often enlivens the pedestrian block, and for sips, there are wineries in Palisade, 30 minutes east.

Best places to visit in Colorado in summer

Colorado's hiking and biking trails come into their own during the warmer months while road-tripping offers an easy way to see much of the state-in an EV on many of the scenic byways .

Crested Butte

After 25 years in Colorado, I still gape at the beauty of Crested Butte , because in a state that's chockablock with pretty views, this town tops the list. Sheer peaks rise up beside the streets' grid, where colorful, mining-era Victorians line the sidewalks. No highway noise ruins the mountains' quiet, and only merry sounds emerge from main street bars and eateries. The surrounding trails wind through aspen groves and meadows that are deservedly famous for July's display of wildflowers.

Bachelor Gulch

Come summer, the Bachelor Gulch base area of Beaver Creek ski resort becomes the scene of a daily lawn and pool party that encapsulates what's splendid about Colorado. Views include aspen-covered mountainsides, and adventures on foot or bike follow trails leading into wildflower meadows. Play a round of cornhole on the lawn, then relocate to Wyld 's patio for plates showcasing Colorado-grown produce. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (renovated in 2022) to cool off in its outdoor pool and sip rosé from the surrounding loungers.

Fort Collins

Visit during Colorado State's summer break, and you won't have to elbow your way into this city's esteemed breweries. (Crooked Stave makes some of my favorite sours.) Nationally known New Belgium Brewing organizes the annual Tour de Fat each August, when a parade of 20,000 wildly costumed cyclists pedal the streets. I make the 100-year-old Armstrong Hotel my downtown home base and stroll from its classy-hip rooms to such downtown shops as Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar, which pours drink made from local homeowners' apple trees.

Rocky Mountain National Park has it all: pretty meadows, alpine lakes, and imposing mountains.

Total solar eclipse 2024: What you need to know to prepare for the big event in Colorado

bennett colorado places to visit

The countdown for the total solar eclipse has begun, but don't worry — you have plenty of time to prepare.

Here is what to know for the big event:

When is the total solar eclipse?

On April 8, the moon’s shadow will sweep across the U.S.

NASA estimates 31.6 million people live in the path of totality compared to 12 million during the total solar eclipse in 2017. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality and 99% of people who live in the U.S. will see the partial or total eclipse from where they live.

Where is the path of totality with this year's total solar eclipse?

The path of totality, where the moon totally blocks the sun, first enters the U.S. in Texas, then passes through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, according to NASA.

During any total solar eclipse, totality lasts the longest near the center of the path widthwise and decreases toward the edge. But for the 2024 eclipse, you don't have to be exactly at the center because the time in totality falls off pretty slowly until you get close to the edge, according to NASA.

Visit this interactive map for eclipse times around the country.

What will you see during the 2024 total solar eclipse in Colorado?

Colorado will only see a partial solar eclipse starting around 11:30 a.m. with max partial eclipse at 12:41 p.m. in Fort Collins and the eclipse ending around 1:30 p.m.

How does the 2024 total solar eclipse compare to the last one in 2017?

The path of totality revealing the sun's outer atmosphere, called the corona, will be much wider this year compared to 2017, according to NASA.

During the 2017 total solar eclipse , the moon was a little farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.

For comparison, in 2017, the path ranged from 62 to 71 miles wide. During this year's eclipse, the path over North America will range between 108 and 122 miles wide.

The 2024 eclipse path will also pass over more cities and densely populated areas than the 2017 path did.

This year's eclipse will have a longer totality in the U.S., lasting about 4 minutes, 26 seconds at its peak in Texas. In 2017, the longest period of totality was 2 minutes, 42 seconds. 

During the 2024 eclipse, the sun will be in or near solar maximum, which will likely create streamers visible throughout the corona and provide a better chance of seeing prominences, which appear as bright pink curls or loops coming off of the sun, according to NASA.

From the archives: Eclipse 2017: 'I need like two more hours of that'

Wait, didn't we just have a solar eclipse in 2023?

On Oct. 14, 2023, the U.S. saw an annular solar eclipse. That happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth while it is at its farthest point from Earth. Because the moon is farther away from Earth, it appears smaller than the sun and does not completely cover it, instead creating what looks like a ring of fire around the moon.

Do you still need to wear safety glasses if you are not in the path of totality?

NASA says when watching partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe eclipse glasses or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. You can also use an indirect viewing method, such as a pinhole projector.​

It's only safe to view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection when the moon completely obscures the sun’s bright face. As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately protect your eyes.

Where can I find eclipse glasses in 2024?

Eclipse glasses have their safety certified by the International Organizations for Standardization. You can tell if a pair of solar eclipse glasses meets today’s standards if they are labeled ISO 12312-2, sometimes written as ISO 12312-2:2015. 

You can find a list of certified solar viewer and filter suppliers at https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters .

IMAGES

  1. Bennett Colorado Aerial Photo Photograph by David Oppenheimer

    bennett colorado places to visit

  2. Bennett CO

    bennett colorado places to visit

  3. Bennett Colorado

    bennett colorado places to visit

  4. Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

    bennett colorado places to visit

  5. 15+ Best Places in Colorado for Summer (Updated 2023)

    bennett colorado places to visit

  6. Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

    bennett colorado places to visit

COMMENTS

  1. THE BEST Things to Do in Bennett (Updated 2024)

    1 place sorted by traveler favorites. 1. Mile High Farms. 4. Farms. By kiggle303. This was our 1st visit to a Pumpkin Patch with our toddlers and it was a fun outing from the corn play pit to the... Things to Do in Bennett, Colorado: See Tripadvisor's 144 traveler reviews and photos of Bennett tourist attractions.

  2. Bennett Vacations, Activities & Things To Do

    Town of Bennett. Website. 355 Fourth Street, Bennett, CO 80102. 303-644-3249. The town is home to the 18-hole links-style Antelope Hills Golf Course. This agricultural haven boasts plenty of farm activities: Schedule a tour of LaZyB Acres to see alpacas in grazing action. Then, shop for yarn, hats and clothing made from their fluffy wool.

  3. TOP 10 BEST Things to Do near Bennett, CO 80102

    Top 10 Best Things to Do in Bennett, CO 80102 - February 2024 - Yelp - Bennett Days, Comanche Crossing Museum, The Town of Bennett, Adventure Africa, Bennett Park & Recreation District, Lucky Strike Lanes, Trupp Park, Four Mile Historic Park, 5280 Show Pigs, Everyday Shamanism

  4. Bennett, CO 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Stay. A mix of the charming, modern, and tried and true. Comfort Inn and Suites Bennett. 5. The Westin Denver International Airport. 1,510. from $271/night. Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center. 839.

  5. Just 30 Minutes From Denver, Bennett Is The Perfect Colorado Day Trip

    If you are in Denver and need to get away, however, we have to recommend visiting the small plains town of Bennett, which is the perfect Colorado day trip destination: Welcome to Bennett, home to nearly 2,500 residents and a surprising amount of things to see and do! Named after the family who first homesteaded in the area in the 1860s, Bennett ...

  6. Bennett, Colorado

    Located at 5,485 feet above sea level on the great plains, the community is continuously expanding into a hub for services along I-70. This plains town resides in both Adams and Arapahoe counties. In 2020 there were 2,862 residents, with a majority residing in Adams County. Bennett was incorporated on January 22nd, 1930.

  7. THE BEST Things to Do in Bennett

    Things to Do in Bennett, Colorado: See Tripadvisor's 144 traveller reviews and photos of Bennett tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Bennett. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  8. THE BEST Things to Do in Bennett

    Things to Do in Bennett, Colorado: See Tripadvisor's 165 traveller reviews and photos of Bennett tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Bennett. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  9. Places to Visit in Bennett

    Top Places to Visit in Bennett, Colorado: See Tripadvisor's 168 traveller reviews and photos of Bennett attractions.

  10. THE BEST Things to Do in Bennett

    Things to Do in Bennett, Colorado: See Tripadvisor's 167 traveller reviews and photos of Bennett attractions.

  11. Bennett, Colorado

    Here are 5 things you should know about this charming town. 1. Bennett was founded in 1889 as a stop on the Denver, South Park, and Pacific Railroad. 2. The town was named after Alonzo P. Bennett, the surveyor who laid out the townsite. 3. Bennett is home to the oldest continuously operated hotel in Colorado, the Elk Mountain Hotel. 4.

  12. Bennett, CO 2022: Best Places to Visit

    Bennett Tourism: Tripadvisor has 167 reviews of Bennett Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Bennett resource. ... Things to Do. Restaurants. Travel Forums. Flights. Car Hire. Holiday Packages. Add a Place. More. United States. Colorado (CO) Bennett. Bennett. Bennett Tourism Bennett Hotels Bennett Bed and Breakfast.

  13. THE BEST Bennett Sights & Historical Landmarks to Visit (2024)

    Top Bennett Landmarks: See reviews and photos of sights to see in Bennett, Colorado on Tripadvisor.

  14. Bennett, CO

    Living in Bennett, CO is a great experience. It has a small-town feel with all the amenities of a larger city. The town center offers shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, making it an ideal place to live for those who want a close-knit community and plenty of options for leisure activities. There are also numerous outdoor opportunities ...

  15. Things to do in Bennett

    Looking for Things to do in Bennett in 2023? Explore the best attractions, sightseeing spots, fun activities, and other handpicked places to visit in Bennett on this weekend. Know that most of the things to do are free or cheap.

  16. Bennett Tourism, Colorado

    Bennett Tourism. The Town of Bennett is a Statutory Town in Adams and Arapahoe counties in the U.S. state of Colorado. The town population was 2308 at the 2010 United States Census. Bennett is a part of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area. Wikipedia. Planning a vacation to Bennett in United States?

  17. Bennett, Colorado United States: things to do, see, information

    Top things to do and things to see in Bennett, Colorado United States: detailed information about Bennett, top attractions, interactive map and much more. Skip to content. ... July 25, 2020 July 5, 2020. Travel Planner. Info about Bennett, Colorado (United States) Bennett is a region of Colorado, in country United States (US).

  18. Bennett, CO

    Bennett is a town in Colorado with a population of 3,299. Bennett is in Arapahoe County. Living in Bennett offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. ... See All 8 Public Schools in Bennett . Top Private Schools Near Bennett. grade B minus. Our Lady Help of Christians Academy. Rating 5 out of 5 1 review. grade ...

  19. Bing Maps

    Directions. Nearby. The Town of Bennett is a Statutory Town located in Adams and Arapahoe counties, Colorado, United States. The town population was 2,862 at …. Local time: 6:17 AM 5/7/2022. Population: 2,862 (2020) Weather: 55°F (13°C), Mostly sunny · See more. Area: 5.56 sq miles. Mayor: Royce Pindell.

  20. Best Places to Visit in Colorado

    Mesa Verde National Park. #5 in Best Places to Visit in Colorado. The former home of the Ancestral Pueblo people, Mesa Verde National Park contains about 5,000 of America's best-preserved ...

  21. 15 destinations worth visiting in Southern Colorado

    15. Trinidad History Museum. Trinidad's History Museum is a one-stop-shop to learn the culture and history of southern Colorado. The museum and its surrounding property in historic downtown Trinidad features the Bloom Mansion and Baca House, which are two residences built in the late-19th century.

  22. Bennett, CO Climate

    Bennett is known for its sunny days and blue skies, making it an ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking or camping. Bennett, Colorado gets 15 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year. Bennett averages 47 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.

  23. Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

    Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado. It is worth adding it to the road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

  24. A 'cowboy ski town' where high earners can't afford a home faces a

    Despite offering a salary of $167,000, Steamboat Springs can't find a head of human resources who can afford a place to live in the remote Colorado resort town.

  25. The 12 Best Places to Visit in Colorado

    Best places to visit in Colorado in winter. Snow envelopes much of the state in the winter months, turning urban areas into winter wonderlands and promising world-class outdoor activities.

  26. Passport Services Coming To Bennett

    Visit "Where can I get vaccinated" or call 1-877-COVAXCO (1-877-268-2926) for vaccine information. Search. ... The Town of Bennett Board of Trustees has made the careful decision not to enter into a contract with the Adams County Sheriff's office for additional police services in the Town of Bennett. ... Colorado Official State Web Portal ...

  27. 2024 solar eclipse guide: Best places to watch in Colorado

    What will you see during the 2024 total solar eclipse in Colorado? Colorado will only see a partial solar eclipse starting around 11:30 a.m. with max partial eclipse at 12:41 p.m. in Fort Collins ...