Best Places to Visit in Colorado in the Summer

Colorado transforms into a beautiful outdoor playground in the summer months, with its snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and clear blue skies. Colorado has something for everyone, from hiking and biking to jeep tours, ghost towns to modern cities. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Colorado during the summer, from the busy streets of Boulder to the tranquil trails of Telluride.

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Front Range of Colorado

• Boulder
• Colorado Springs
• Denver
• Golden
• Red Rocks
• Royal Gorge Railroad

Colorado Mountains and Western Slope

• Aspen
• Breckenridge
• Crested Butte
• Durango
• Glenwood Springs
• Grand Lake
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Steamboat Springs
• Telluride
• Vail

Front Range of Colorado

Boulder

Boulder is one of the top places to visit in Colorado for a summer getaway, whether you come for a day trip or a longer stay. This vibrant city comes alive in the summer with its blend of urban and outdoor activities set against the stunning backdrop of the Flatirons. Boulder is a great base for further exploring as well. It’s just 30 minutes from Denver and 1 hour from Rocky Mountain National Park. Getting to Boulder from Denver is quick and easy. Simply drive about half an hour or take an RTD Bus.

Start your Boulder visit with a hike from the Chautauqua Trailhead. You’ll find breathtaking views and trails for all skill levels. For an easy bike ride, the Boulder Creek Path provides a scenic route right through the heart of the city and continues into Boulder Canyon. Don’t miss a stroll through the Boulder Farmers Market, open every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer, for fresh food and live music.

Boulder’s calendar is packed with summer events, ranging from the Colorado Music Festival held in the historic Chautauqua Auditorium to various art festivals and the Boulder International Film Festival. For a unique stay in Boulder in a historic hotel with all of the modern conveniences, consider the Hotel Boulderado, which is just off of the Pearl Street pedestrian mall.

Expect warm days with average highs in the 80’s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for enjoying all the outdoor activities Boulder has to offer. Evenings can cool down, so pack a light jacket. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find that summer is a wonderful time to visit Boulder.

Colorado Springs

Recommended by Brittney Naylor of A Mom Well Travelled

With over 55 area attractions, including museums, trains, parks, and more, Colorado Springs offers plenty for visitors to enjoy during the summer. Upon arriving at Denver’s Airport, it’s less than a 90-minute drive south to Colorado Springs. For your convenience, there is also the Colorado Springs Airport. If you don’t have a car, take the Bustang from Denver to Colorado Springs. It is a bit hard to get to all of the sites in Colorado Springs without a car.

In the summer, visitors can expect highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 50s. One of the best sites to visit in Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods. Visitors can choose to drive through the park, walk or hike one of the many trails for a closer look, or take a jeep tour. For those feeling adventurous, try taking on the Manitou Incline loop, which features 2744 steps and is nearly 4.5 miles round trip. Of course, the adventure doesn’t have to stop there. Pikes Peak, also known as, “America’s Mountain,” is also worth visiting for its breathtaking views at nearly 14,000 feet. Visitors can take the Cog Railway, drive themselves, or opt to book a tour.

Other notable attractions to visit while in the Colorado Springs area include the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Cave of the Winds, and Broadmoor’s Seven Falls, just to name a few. The Broadmoor is a great place to stay while in Colorado Springs, with easy access to many attractions, as well as its own golf course, luxury spa, and 18 on-site restaurants.

Denver

Recommended by Francesca of Homeroom Travel 

One of the best places to visit in Colorado in summer is Denver. The capital city of Colorado has a ton of activities and everyone can find something to enjoy. Visitors can get here by flying into Denver International Airport which has flights from all over the United States. 

In the summertime, weather in Denver ranges from 80-90 degrees with a little bit of humidity and plenty of sun. During the summer, you can find many festivals and special events in Denver. These range from Brewfest to outdoor concerts/festivals and street fairs. You can even take in a Rockies game at Coors Field. 

Other fun things to do in Denver during the summertime are visiting the State Capital, strolling through the Botanic Gardens, checking out the murals in RiNo. You can also visit one of the many museums, such as the Clyfford Still Museum, the Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, or the Denver Mint. A unique place to stay when in town is Flora House Denver, a B&B located in a peaceful setting very close to many of the museums, zoo, and botanic gardens.

Food wise, make sure to check out one of Denver’s many food halls such as the Denver Milk Market, or Denver Central Market. Hashtag and Denver Biscuit Company are fantastic breakfast places and you will not want to miss Mercantile or Safta for dinner.

Golden

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

Just a short 20 minute drive west of Downtown Denver along 6th Avenue is the historic city of Golden, Colorado. Although it’s technically a city, it feels more like a large town, with incredible views of Table Mountain from the main street and lots of homages to Colorado’s western heritage. 

Visitors of all ages will find things to love in Golden, like wandering down Washington Avenue, touring the Coors Brewery, or having a drink at Golden Mill. Every July, Golden celebrates Buffalo Bill Days with a series of events dedicated to a central character in Colorado’s history. You can also head up into the foothills to see Buffalo Bill’s gravesite and a small museum if you want to learn even more. 

Like the rest of the Front Range, Golden tends to be hot and dry in the summer. This part of Colorado is prone to severe thunderstorms on summer afternoons, which can often roll in with little notice. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and beware of lightning storms and thunder between about 1pm and 3pm. 

When visiting, stay in a charming B&B in Golden, preferably one that’s within walking distance of Washington Avenue. Many of Golden’s B&Bs are set in historic Victorian houses, which are definitely full of character and little references to Colorado’s heritage. 

Red Rocks

Recommended by Michelle Moyer, Moyer Memoirs Adventures in Empty-Nest Travel

Red Rocks Park, which is just a short 15-mile drive from Denver, is one of the must-see places to visit when in Colorado during the summer.  It’s a great place to visit in the summer because of all of the outdoor opportunities available that can be enjoyed in the nice weather.

Hiking at Red Rocks Park in Colorado is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors as you wander the miles and miles of trails around the park. There are two main hiking trails that lead through the sandstone red rocks and are frequented by animals. The shorter trail is Trading Post Trail.  It leads in a circular path around the park.  It’s 1.6 miles long and takes an average hiker less than an hour to complete.  One of the longer trails is Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Loop.  It’s a breathtaking 3.2-mile hike that includes dramatic views of the red rock landscape. It takes an average of 1 hr 40 minutes to complete. These are some of the best red rocks hikes in the Denver area.

In addition to all the hiking, save time to see the centerpiece of the park, the unique Red Rocks Amphitheater.  It’s surrounded on both sides by beautiful red sandstone rock formations, making this outdoor stage one of the most unique in the world.  Some of the best things to do in the summer at Red Rocks are enjoying music concerts, yoga classes, and films held at the amphitheater. When there isn’t a show or class, you can check out the amphitheater free of charge.  You’ll be amazed as you stand at the top of the amphitheater to view the stage with Denver as the beautiful backdrop.

Royal Gorge Railroad

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad provides a must-do summertime ride. It’s complete with some of the most spectacular views of mountains, landscapes, creeks, and the Arkansas River. During summer, you’ll enjoy the wildflowers blooming with greenery contrasting against the towering granite cliffs and sparkling waters of the Arkansas River below.

The railroad between Cañon City and Salida has been in operation since 1880 and the experience showcases old-time charm. You can choose from a few different classes of service, including luxurious dome cars with expansive windows for panoramic views or open-air cars that allow for an experience filled with mountain air.

Often, there are special events and themed rides, like wine tastings, murder mystery dinners, and family-friendly fun. Onboard dining provides gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, as well as local beer and wine.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is about a two-hour drive south of Denver, and just one hour south of Colorado Springs. It can be done as a fun day trip! That’s the way I traveled – it was a long day! If you’d like to enjoy the rafting, zip lining, or other activities around Royal Gorge, consider spending a night at the Royal Gorge Cabins, which offer glamping tents, cottages, and houses close to the action.

Colorado Mountains and Western Slope

Aspen

Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler

While Aspen is typically thought of as a skiing destination in the wintertime, it’s a wonderful place to head in the summertime as well. The best thing to do around Aspen in the summertime is to break out your hiking boots. For example, the Maroon Bells hike takes you through the heart of the most photographed spot in Colorado, with the snow-capped Maroon and North Maroon Peaks towering 14,000 feet above alpine lakes below. Alternatively, if you’re on the hunt for some vibrant wildflowers, the Cathedral Lake and American Lake Trails should be at the top of your list.

If you want a more adrenaline-pumping activity, there are plenty of options for daredevils. You can try your hand at paragliding, book a hot air balloon ride over the Elk Mountains, or scale the cliff sides along the rock climbing routes of Independence Pass.

Finally, while many think of Aspen as nothing but an outdoor destination, the town itself is quite charming, with everything from luxury boutiques to craft breweries lining its streets. You can even indulge in musical performances while you’re here—for example, the Jazz Aspen Snowmass takes place June 20-23, 2024, whereas the Aspen Music Festival and School allows you to catch classical music from late June all the way through the end of August.

Getting to Aspen from Denver is straight forward. It typically takes 4 hours driving by car, a bit over 5 hours by bus. You can also take a quick flight to Aspen airport. Aspen is renowned for being quite expensive. For classic luxury lodging in Aspen, stay at the Little Nell. For an affordable hostel style lodging option, consider the St. Moritz Lodge and Condominiums.

Breckenridge

One of the easiest places to visit in the mountains in Colorado in summer is Breckenridge. Located just under a two-hour drive from Denver, Breckenridge is filled with outdoor activities, festivals, and beautiful weather in summer.

Kick off your trip with a visit to Main Street, where you’ll enjoy local shops and eateries with an old mining town vibe. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do. You can hike the scenic trails of McCullough Gulch and Quandary Peak or mountain bike on the Peaks Trail. For a more relaxed pace, rent an e-bike to explore the extensive paved trail system from Breckenridge to Frisco and around Lake Dillon. The Blue River is a serene setting for fly fishing.

Breckenridge shines with its summer events. The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival on July 13, 2024 offers craft brews amidst mountain views. The National Repertory Orchestra’s Summer Music Festival fills the air with classical tunes throughout the season. 32 of these concerts in 2024 are free to the public. Art lovers will relish the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts (August 16-25, 2024), featuring eclectic performances and installations.

The weather in Breckenridge in summer is pleasantly mild, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to the low 70s Fahrenheit. Nights are cool, so packing layers is recommended. For lodging located right next to the chairlifts and a short walk or shuttle ride to town, consider staying at One Ski Hill, A RockResort.

To get here from Denver, drive along the scenic I-70 W before taking CO-9 S in Frisco, which leads directly into town. You can also catch a bus to neighboring Frisco from Denver, or take one of the many airport shuttles. It’s easy to enjoy a vacation in Breckenridge without a car once you arrive.

Crested Butte

Recommended by Kate Cooper of Kate Outdoors

A trip to Colorado during the summer wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Crested Butte. This charming mountain town is known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado. Once you’ve visited during peak conditions, it’s easy to understand why. From purple lupine to golden Aspen sunflowers to columbines (Colorado’s state flower), there are seemingly endless wildflower species to see.

The best time to visit Crested Butte to see the wildflowers is in July. The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival runs from July 12-21, 2024. There are hundreds of events throughout the festival, including adventure photography workshops, wildflower hikes, and art classes. 

Some of the best hikes in Crested Butte to see wildflowers include the Snodgrass Trail and Rustler’s Gulch. While both trails are considered moderate-difficult, you don’t need to hike far to see gorgeous wildflower views. Remember to practice Leave No Trace on the trail, which includes not picking the wildflowers so they can continue to bloom vibrantly in future years. On hot days, consider renting a paddle board and going out on Lake Irwin or on the Slate River.

The drive to Crested Butte from Denver takes roughly 4 ½ hours. You can also fly into the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport, however flights are limited. Or, take a bus in a little over 5 hours. Stay in charming downtown at the Cristiana Guesthaus for convenient access to the many events and restaurants. A stay at Mt. Crested Butte provides direct access to hikes. The two areas are connected by frequent shuttle buses.

Durango

Durango is an off the beaten path outdoor paradise, deserving of its spot on the top places to visit in Colorado in summer. The drive from Denver to Durango winds its way through 337 miles of Colorado’s picturesque landscapes. You can choose to drive the 6-hour route or opt for a quick flight to Durango-La Plata County Airport. If you fly to Durango, it’s best to rent a car or sign up for tours to explore the many things to do.

Durango’s summer season is vibrant with activities and events. Durango’s summers are warm, typically ranging from the mid-70s to the occasional high 80s Fahrenheit. The Animas River provides thrilling whitewater rafting experiences. The surrounding San Juan National Forest offers miles of hiking and mountain bike trails for all levels. Try the Animas Mountain Trail close to town or the Falls Creek Trail just outside of town for beautiful wildflowers and waterfalls. Visit Vallecito Lake for some incredible kayaking.

For railroad enthusiasts, a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a must, offering breathtaking views of canyons, waterfalls, and wilderness inaccessible by road. You’ll find the Aztec Ruins National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park are less than an hour from Durango.

Don’t miss the annual Durango Fiesta Days, held July 22-28, 2024, a celebration of the town’s rich Western heritage, complete with rodeos, parades, and cultural performances. For those looking for apartment style lodging, the Club Wyndham Durango offers top rated lodging with kitchens. For a hotel with a western feel and right next to the train station, try the General Palmer Hotel.

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is a refreshing summer escape, whether you are visiting from Denver or beyond. It’s a scenic 2.5 hour drive or a 5+ hour scenic Amtrak train ride from Denver. Whether driving or taking the train or bus from Denver, you’ll enjoy a journey through stunning Glenwood Canyon before arriving.

Summer in Glenwood Springs is comfortably warm, with temperatures averaging in the 70s and 80s, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The town is famous for its hot springs, like the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool—the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool—where visitors can unwind in healing waters. Another highlight is the Iron Mountain Hot Springs which offers a more secluded and tranquil experience with multiple pools with differing minerals overlooking the Colorado River.

Adventure seekers can explore the vast network of hiking trails in the area, including the picturesque Hanging Lake trail. Rent a bike and enjoy the bike trails through Glenwood Canyon or out to Aspen. Take a ride on the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park gondola, which not only provides access to cave tours but also to amusement rides perched on the edge of Glenwood Canyon.

Glenwood Springs also hosts vibrant events throughout the summer, including the Strawberry Days Festival June 21-23, 2024, the oldest annual festival west of the Mississippi. The festival features live music, a parade, and a unique arts and crafts fair. For a stay in a historic hotel adjacent to the Hot Springs Pool, try the Hotel Colorado.

Grand Lake

Grand Lake, Colorado, is a summer retreat and the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). This charming mountain town is located in Grand County, easily reachable just a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Denver. Taking the train from Denver to neighboring Granby gives you some of the most stunning landscapes as you take a tunnel through the mountains of the continental divide.

In summer, Grand Lake is a center for outdoor activities, thanks to its location and its mild weather with daytime highs typically in the 70’s Fahrenheit. The town is known for its namesake, Grand Lake (also called Spirit Lake), Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake. Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Reservoir are connected by a narrow channel, which you can navigate with rented kayaks, paddle boards, pontoon or motor boats. Surrounding trails offer opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, both within and outside of the park.

The 4th of July celebration is a summer highlight, featuring one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the state. The town also hosts the Grand Lake Regatta and the Buffalo BBQ Weekend, events that draw visitors from all over for fun and festivities. Need a break from the outdoors? The Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater hosts professional theater shows as well as youth summer programs.

RMNP provides options for hiking and camping in summer, along with numerous chances to spot elk, moose, and mule deer. The Grand Lake Lodge is our favorite place to stay in Grand Lake. Their restaurant, porch and pool are the best places in town to watch the spectacular sunsets over the lake after a day exploring the park.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, a spectacular wilderness area just a two-hour drive from Denver, Colorado, is an ideal place to visit in summer. Here you’ll find towering peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. If you don’t have a car, the Bustang provides bus service between Denver, Boulder, and Estes Park during the summer months. The park offers a hikers shuttle from Estes Park into the park.

Summer in the park is a delightful time with warm days and cool nights, temperatures ranging from the 60’s to the 80’s Fahrenheit. Hiking is undoubtedly the most popular activity, with over 300 miles of trails that range from flat lakeside strolls such as Bear Lake and Sprague Lake to challenging hikes, such as Sky Pond and Chasm Lake. Iconic hikes like the Emerald Lake Trail attract hikers from around the world.

Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with chances to see elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, especially in the early morning or at dusk. For those who enjoy scenic drives, Trail Ridge Road offers one of the highest continuous paved roads in North America, with panoramic views of the Rockies.

The park hosts a variety of ranger-led programs including night sky observations, nature walks, and educational talks. While some visit the park on a day trip, we recommend staying overnight in one of the park’s 5 campgrounds, in Estes Park at the Rams Horn Village Resort or YMCA of the Rockies, or in Grand Lake at the Grand Lake Lodge.

Steamboat Springs

Recommended by Rachel of Oahu Travel Secrets

When people think of Colorado, they think of winter ski resorts. But what you don’t think about is what happens to those ski resorts the rest of the year! Located a bit more than 3 hours from Denver by car, Steamboat Springs goes from winter wonderland to an outdoor lovers paradise in the summer. You can also reach Steamboat in 4.5 hours by connecting a few buses, or take a quick flight to Yampa Regional Airport.

Similar to Denver, Steamboat offers weeks of sunshine and very little rain all season long. This makes it perfect for hiking Rabbit Ears Peak during peak wildflower season, mountain biking the endless trails (for every level of biker), and rafting or tubing down the Yampa River.

There’s nothing more popular than visiting the famous Strawberry Hot Springs. Spend an evening jumping in and out of the hot springs and the cold river or take advantage of the on-site camping, cabins, and train caboose. Don’t miss Steamboat’s 4th of July celebration or Arts in the Park (July 13-14, 2024).

Steamboat’s shops and restaurants will immediately make you feel at home. You’ll quickly see why people make this drive. Steamboat is such a charming town that provides a sweet escape from the city. For lodging, the Sheraton Steamboat Resort and Villas are centrally located at the base of the mountain, with easy access to shuttles into town and to all of the mountain’s activities. The Rabbit Ears Motel is another popular choice. It’s dog friendly, close to town, across the street from the Hot Springs, and backs to the river.

Telluride

Telluride sits in a unique box canyon amid the towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. It offers an amazing summer getaway, accessible by a scenic 6-hour drive from Denver or a quick flight into nearby Montrose. Though it’s remote, Telluride is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the summer.

Summer in Telluride is festival season. With temperatures ranging from the 50’s to the 70’s Fahrenheit, the weather is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival, a nearly four-decade-old tradition, marks the beginning of summer with four days of music under the sun and stars (June 20-23, 2024). Film enthusiasts flock to the Telluride Film Festival at the end of August, renowned for its premieres and intimate format.

Outdoor activities are seemingly endless. Hike to Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, right from town. Go rafting or fly fishing on the San Miguel River. Explore the seemingly endless trails on a mountain bike, or take a guided tour of the Via Ferrata. For a unique experience, take a 4WD tour over Imogene Pass and visit a ghost town, The free gondola rides provide spectacular views and connect Telluride to Mountain Village, making for an easy and scenic transit between dining, shopping, and lodging. Try the New Sheridan Hotel for a historic hotel right in the heart of town.

Vail

Vail is a summer hub for adventure and cultural events. Some of the things that make it one of the best places to visit in Colorado in summer are the luxury lodging, outdoor activities, and natural beauty. Located a 2-hour drive from Denver, it is a picturesque retreat for those looking to enjoy the summer months in the mountains. As an added benefit, the bus takes just over 2 hours or you can fly into Eagle-Vail airport. Once in town, enjoy your stay without a car.

During the summer, Vail’s weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures typically ranging from the 50’s in the morning to the 70’s Fahrenheit by afternoon. You’ll find world-class golf courses, horseback riding, mountain top yoga, and gondola and mountain coaster rides providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy challenging hikes such as Deluge Lake Trail and Upper Piney Falls Trail, or easier trails such as Eagles Loop, starting from the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola.

Vail’s summer calendar is filled with cultural events and festivals. The Vail Dance Festival (July 26-August 5, 2024) and Bravo! Vail Music Festival (June 20-August 1, 2024) bring world-renowned artists in dance and classical music. Regular outdoor music events are held throughout the summer. The Vail Farmers’ Market and Art Show, held weekly during the summer, is the place to find local produce and artisan goods.

For those looking for adventure, explore Vail’s trail running, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and fly fishing. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are a treat to visit year-round. Staying in town at the Austria Haus Hotel immerses you in the feel of the Vail, with easy access to restaurants and summer events.

Which Places Will You Visit in Colorado in Summer?

Out of the countless places in Colorado to visit, these 17 are some of the best summer destinations. Each of these destinations in Colorado offers unique experiences, from the serenity of natural hot springs to the excitement of summer festivals. We encourage you to try them for yourself. If you have other favorite places to visit in Colorado in summer, please add these in your comments below!

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