10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Colorado (That Aren’t Skiing)

When most people think of Colorado, they picture snowy slopes and ski chalets.

But the Centennial State is much more than a winter wonderland. There are so many things to do in Colorado.

From red rock canyons to historic mining towns, natural hot springs to craft breweries, Colorado is a four-season playground.

I’ve visited in summer and fall, and each trip felt completely different, with something different to offer.

If you’re planning a trip and want to discover things to do in Colorado that don’t involve strapping on skis, here are ten experiences you won’t forget.

10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Colorado (That Aren’t Skiing)

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the crown jewels of Colorado attractions, Rocky Mountain National Park is a year-round stunner.

In summer, you can hike to alpine lakes framed by snow-capped peaks.

In autumn, the park turns into a sea of gold. Even winter offers magic with frozen waterfalls and elk wandering through the snow.

Driving Trail Ridge Road (open late spring through early fall) is unforgettable.

At over 12,000 feet, it feels like you’re skimming the sky itself.

Pack a jacket, even in July, as the wind up there bites.

If you love the great outdoors, this place will make you very happy.

The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park nearby is worth a stay. Famous for inspiring The Shining, it combines history with mountain views.

Book Here: Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

Soak in Natural Hot Springs

Colorado is dotted with geothermal hot springs, perfect after a long hike or a chilly day.

I’ll never forget sitting in Pagosa Springs in mid-November, steam curling around me while snowflakes drifted down.

It was such an experience.

The three main springs are Glenwood Springs, which is home to one of the largest hot spring pools in the world.

Ouray Pools has a jaw-dropping backdrop of canyon walls.

Pagosa Springs has dozens of pools and is right by the San Juan River.

They are all incredible, so pick which one works best for you.

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is a wonderful place to stay and gives you direct access to the famous pools.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The sound of the whistle echoing through the canyon is something you’ll never forget.

This historic steam train follows the Animas River through rugged mountain scenery.

The track seems to almost cling to the cliffs and isn’t for the faint of heart.

If you can go in autumn, golden aspens light up the valley like fire. It’s a real sight.

Durango itself is a lively town, filled with Western charm, local breweries, and a base for exploring Mesa Verde National Park.

It’s a wonderful location and the train journey is epic.

Book Here: Durango: Round-trip train ticket to Silverton

Discover Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde is one of the most unique places to visit in Colorado.

The park contains cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people more than 700 years ago.

Standing inside one of the dwellings is a real experience; the history is palpable.

Guided tours let you climb ladders and peer into rooms that were once homes. It’s best in summer or fall, but the park is open year-round.

Far View Lodge is inside the park and offers rustic comfort with unbeatable views.

Look Here: Mesa Verde National Park Half-Day Tour

Wander Through Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs’ Garden of the Gods is indescribable and somewhere you must visit.

Massive red sandstone spires rise against the backdrop of Pikes Peak, glowing brightest at sunrise and sunset.

I visited on a late summer evening and watched the rocks look like they caught fire in the fading light.

The paved trails make it easy to explore for all ages.

If you’re adventurous, try a guided rock-climbing session.

Stay at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, where you can sip your morning coffee with those same red rocks in view.

Look here: Garden of the Gods Luxury Jeep Tour

Tour Denver’s Food, Art & Beer Scene

Colorado isn’t just about mountains; its capital city is buzzing with creativity.

Denver’s RiNo district brims with colorful murals, hip eateries, and experimental breweries.

LoDo (Lower Downtown) mixes Victorian architecture with lively nightlife.

Food tasting is one of the many things to do in Denver.

Beer lovers will be spoiled here. Colorado has more than 400 breweries.

If you can, time your visit for the Great American Beer Festival in autumn.

Denver is one of the best cities to visit in America.

The Crawford Hotel, set inside Denver’s historic Union Station, is a wonderful place to stay.

Step Back in Time in a Colorado Ghost Town

Mining once ruled Colorado, and the remains of that era still dot the mountains.

St. Elmo is one of the most famous ghost towns.

With wooden storefronts, a general store, and even a colony of friendly chipmunks, it is a must-visit.

Summer visits come with wildflowers growing through the cracks, while winter snow gives it a haunting, quiet beauty.

Autumn here is also wonderful.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

U.S. Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton isn’t for the faint of heart.

The road hugs sheer cliffs with no guardrails, but the views of the San Juan Mountains are worth every nerve.

This drive is breathtaking.

Fall is a spectacular time to go, with fiery aspen leaves lining the way.

Summer brings alpine meadows splashed with wildflowers.

In winter, this area is known as the Switzerland of America, but some parts can be closed when there is heavy snowfall.

In spring, you will see lots of wildflowers, but the weather can be very unpredictable.

My advice is to take it slow; this is one drive where the journey is the destination.

Road trip lovers should also check out my USA Fall road trips.

Attend a Summer Festival

From Bluegrass in Telluride to hot air balloons in Steamboat Springs, Colorado loves to celebrate.

Festivals bring towns alive with music, food, and a sense of community.

One of my personal favorites is the Colorado Shakespeare Festival in Boulder.

Sitting under the stars with the Flatirons as a backdrop while watching Shakespeare performed live is pure magic.

Colorado Tourism has a list of Colorado festivals.

Take a look and pick one that is happening when you plan to visit.

Stargaze in a Dark Sky Park

High elevation and wide open spaces make Colorado a stargazer’s paradise.

At Great Sand Dunes National Park, lie on the sand and watch the Milky Way pour across the sky in dazzling clarity. Honestly

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers equally stunning views.

Bring a blanket, a thermos, and prepare to feel small in the best way.

Look into staying at Great Sand Dunes Lodge, which offers cozy accommodations near the park.

Things to do in Colorado: Essentials Packing List

Here are my tips on how to pack lightly. using a carry-on when traveling. And WHY it is almost a necessity!

This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.

These RFID sleeves are another solution.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday.

It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

I never leave home on a trip without a non-disposable water bottle. 

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.

These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful when visiting spas or hot springs.

These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.

For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.

Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.

This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.

These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.

If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from your qualifying purchases.

Weather in Colorado

Colorado’s weather is famously unpredictable thanks to its mountains and elevation.

Be prepared for anything whenever you do.

Summer days are warm (25-30°C / 77-86°F) but evenings cool quickly, especially in higher elevations.

Autumn brings crisp air and brilliant foliage, with temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F).

Winter varies: Denver may be mild (5°C / 41°F), while mountain towns are buried in snow.

Spring is a wildcard, with sudden snowstorms or warm sunshine.

Pack layers no matter the season, Colorado’s climate will keep you guessing.

Tips for Colorado

• Layer up: Temperatures swing wildly between day and night.
• Altitude awareness: Colorado sits high, so altitude sickness can happen. Drink plenty of water, go easy on alcohol, and take your first hikes slowly.
• Sun protection: At elevation, the sun is fierce. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses year-round.
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential, even in cities like Denver or Boulder where trails are nearby. You will walk a lot on loads of different surfaces, so be prepared.

Skiing might get all the attention, but the best things to do in Colorado go far beyond the slopes.

Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, wandering through ancient cliff dwellings, or driving mountain roads that make your heart race, this state will surprise you in every season.

Colorado isn’t just a place for adventure—it’s a place that leaves you with stories worth retelling.