6 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Colorado

Consistently ranked as one of the top ten vacation states in the country, Colorado embodies the essence of a dream getaway. The state’s rugged Rocky Mountains, therapeutic hot springs, lush forests, and snowy white ski slopes are just a few of the state’s aspects that draw in millions of visitors in need of a relaxing break each year. Although it is hard to go wrong in picking a calm and beautiful Colorado town, these six towns have an especially laid-back spirit that, by the end of your vacation, will leave you feeling more relaxed than ever.

Ouray

Sometimes referred to as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a beautiful town in a river valley surrounded by the snowy San Juan Mountains. Several nearby waterfalls await exploration, including Box Canyon Falls, where water plunges 285 feet from the basin's rim into a narrow canyon. After a busy day hiking and exploring the town’s waterfalls, visitors may wish to unwind and soak for a while in the Ouray Hot Springs’ therapeutic waters.

After learning all about the town’s natural landmarks, travelers may want to know more about its history. Taking a tour of the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine is the perfect way to do so, where visitors will learn more about what life was like as a miner, taking a tour either by foot or by carriage. In the downtown area, travelers can stroll through many unique artisan shops and galleries and get their sweet fix at the renowned Mouse’s Chocolates.

Paonia

Paonia, with its abundant fruit farms, thriving dairy production, and vibrant wildflowers, offers the perfect getaway for those seeking to savor nature's bounty. Paonia’s “Cherry Days” event every July appreciates the town’s delicious production of cherries through a barbecue, parade, fireworks, and lots of cherry treats like cherry pies! Those who love snacking on cheeses will enjoy a trip to Western Culture Farmstead & Creamery as well, where they can sample a variety of small-batch goat cheese and see the goats up close.

Orchard Valley Farms is another great afternoon activity, where visitors can pick their own raspberries, cherries, peaches, and a selection of tasty vegetables. In addition to its fruit and dairy production, Paonia is also one of Colorado’s Certified Creative Districts, meaning that travelers will have plenty of opportunities to stroll through unique art galleries, studios, and shops and participate in art-themed events.

Glenwood Springs

Known for its hot springs, Glenwood Springs is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a restful vacation. Iron Mountain Hot Springs, for example, has a variety of calming mineral water pools ranging in temperature from 98 degrees to 108 degrees Fahrenheit. Hanging Lake is another renowned natural landmark in town, featuring pristine waterfalls and a clear lake that was formed as the result of a unique geological fault that visitors can reach through a 1.2-mile hike. Rafting, mountain biking, fishing, and even paragliding are a few of the other outdoor activities that travelers can take part in.

After a day at the hot springs or out on the water fishing, hungry visitors will appreciate the wide array of dining options that Glenwood Springs offers. 19th Street Diner, Rocky Mountain Pizza Co., and Everest Nepal Restaurant are just a few of the diverse restaurants to choose from.

Keystone

Keystone, a small town with a population of just under a thousand residents, sits at the foot of Keystone Mountain, making it an excellent place for outdoor adventurers to visit year-round. In the Winter, the Keystone Ski Resort is a skier's paradise, offering three skiing peaks with trails of varying levels. Not yet a skier, but want to be? The resort also has a ski school so that even beginners can enjoy the slopes.

The town also has a variety of cozy cafes, like the Haywood Cafe, which is a great place to grab a hearty breakfast before heading into the outdoors or grab a hot chocolate after a day of chilly skiing. Keystone is just as beautiful in the summer. In the warmer months, visitors can try out horseback riding at Keystone Stables or zipline, raft, or hike through the mountains.

Cortez

Although many people know Colorado for its mountains, Cortez is a town that contrasts this general perception, feeling more like New Mexico or Arizona. It is brimming with sandy canyons, archaeological centers, and pueblo architecture. At the Cortez Cultural Center, for example, visitors can appreciate Southwestern and Native American culture through music programs, flute playing, and art. Diving even further into culture, travelers can spend a few hours appreciating the Hovenweep National Monument, which protects six Puebloan-era villages from prehistoric times, spread throughout twenty miles of canyons and mesa tops.

Blending history, culture, and nature together, the Hawkins Preserve is another fascinating site to visit, featuring various short trails where hikers can appreciate native wildlife, geological formations, and archeological sites. After a day observing wildlife and exploring archeological sites, thirsty visitors may want to grab a beer at WildEdge Brewing Collective, one of the newest breweries in town that offers creative beers and local cuisine options.

Golden

Formerly a gold rush town, Golden is a city that is proud of its Western roots and eager to share its culture and history with visitors. As one of the state’s oldest towns, it has countless historic buildings and museums to appreciate. Golden History Museum and Park, for example, allows visitors to learn about and explore pioneer life by seeing old settlements, artifacts, and exhibits. The Foothills Art Center is another great way to get a sense of the town’s culture, residing in a former Victorian Church filled with works from local artists.

The town is surrounded by numerous natural wonders as well, such as two towering volcanic mesas to the east and Mount Zion and Lookout Mountain to the west. Hiking or biking up Lookout Mountain is a wonderful way to have a bird's eye view of the city. For those looking to unwind, there's also a scenic drive to the summit. Golden Gate Canyon State Park is another excellent way to escape into nature, featuring cabins, camping sites, and 35 miles of gorgeous trails to explore.

Final Thoughts

After exploring these six laid-back towns, it is clear why Colorado is one of the most popular states for vacationing countrywide. Not only is the state abundant in beautiful natural landmarks and outdoor recreational activities, but its small towns also warmly welcome visitors, eager to share their culture and history with travelers who venture beyond the big cities. When the stress and bustle of daily life start to feel overwhelming, do not hesitate to book a trip to one of these towns for the relaxing escape you deserve.