6 Small Towns in Colorado With Big Charm
Tourism is big business in Colorado. So big that the state attracts an average of 90 million visitors every year, almost half of whom will spend at least a night there. And increasingly, these out-of-state visitors are looking for the kind of unique, authentic Colorado experiences that can be found in the state’s smaller towns.
From the wonderfully named Crested Butte, the "Wildflower Capital of Colorado" to the mineral-rich thermal waters of Manitou Springs and the funky music vibe of Lyons, these six charming small towns in Colorado make for surprisingly good alternatives to the big cities like Denver. Read on and be inspired!
Crested Butte
Located in Colorado’s stunning East River Valley area, the charming mountain town of Crested Butte was founded in 1880. In its early years, coal and silver miners outnumbered the locals two-to-one. Fast forward 140 years and the townsfolk these days aren’t outnumbered by miners but by skiers thanks to the first-class skiing and snowboarding facilities at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Winter sports aficionados descend upon Crested Bute from around the globe to sample what is sometimes referred to as the “Last Great Colorado Ski Town” for its mix of challenging slopes and family-friendly runs.
Come summer, this charming town lures hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers to its extensive network of trails and its stunning natural landscapes. Summer also brings with it the popular Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, a week-long celebration of the region's diverse flora, while the Crested Butte Music Festival showcases popular musical genres.
Durango
Located in the southwest corner of the state the Colorado - New Mexico border, Durango was established in 1881 and became a hub for nearby mines and industries like smelting, as well as the nation’s early railroads. Its stunning natural beauty soon caught the attention of vacationers with the creation of the San Juan National Forest in 1905 and Mesa Verde National Park in 1906. The ensuing influx of vacationers also brought with them new prosperity, which is reflected in Durango’s Main Avenue, a must-visit historic district that features beautifully preserved buildings including the iconic Strater Hotel and The General Palmer Hotel, built in 1887 and 1898, respectively (both are still open for guests).
One of the town's most famous attractions is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam train takes passengers on a scenic journey through the remote wilderness of the San Juan National Forest to the old mining town of Silverton and features great views of the Animas River and the surrounding mountains. Other highlights include Mesa Verde National Park, home to ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Telluride
Telluride’s location is undeniably one of the most charming in Colorado. Tucked away in a box canyon in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the charm doesn’t dissipate in winter. When the snow flies the Telluride Ski Resort is the main attraction, with its challenging ski runs and diverse terrain attracting snow-sport enthusiasts from across the country. In the summer months, Telluride attracts hikers and mountain bikers, as well as those here to enjoy a stroll along the San Miguel River. Up for a challenging hike? Hit the trail to Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado.
The town's charming historic district is well worth spending time in. A National Historic Landmark, here you’ll find well-preserved Victorian-era architecture that’s especially fun to explore during events like the Telluride Film Festival and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. For a unique experience, one of the best free things to do in Telluride is to hop aboard the gondola connecting Telluride with Mountain Village, a scenic ride with spectacular panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
Manitou Springs
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is located at the foot of Pikes Peak and was established in 1872 as a health resort due to its therapeutic mineral springs. The town boasts eight unique mineral springs which can be visited via a self-guided tour, each naturally carbonated with its own “taste” and purported health benefits.
The most charming part of the town is its Historic District. A delightful area to explore on foot, you’ll travel tree-lined streets with well-preserved buildings that are now home to shops, galleries, and restaurants guaranteed to make you want to stay awhile and explore. Outdoor pursuits can be enjoyed at Manitou Incline, a challenging mile-long trail with over 2,000 steps that, while an intense workout, rewards the brave with incredible views. The nearby Garden of the Gods Park is also fun to visit for its dramatic red rock formations and numerous hiking and biking trails.
Steamboat Springs
With a name like Steamboat Springs, how could this small Colorado town be anything other than charming? Located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Colorado, Steamboat Springs is well-known for its world-class ski resorts, a reputation that’s led to its being nicknamed "Ski Town, USA." Steamboat Ski Resort is the main draw and is known for its famous powdery snow, its 165 ski trails, and its state-of-the-art amenities. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing fun can also be had at the Steamboat Ski Touring Center and Haymaker Nordic Center.
The town’s other big star is the Old Town Hot Springs. Located in the heart of Steamboat Springs, here you can enjoy multiple pools, water slides, and fitness facilities, while nearby Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs provides a quieter, more relaxed escape. Cultural highlights include the Tread of Pioneers Museum, a unique attraction showcasing the town's rich history, and the annual Steamboat Winter Carnival, a tradition since 1914 that features ski races, parades, and fireworks. During the summer, the Yampa River provides opportunities for fishing, tubing, and kayaking.
Lyons
Only an hour's drive north of Denver, Lyons has the unique distinction of being referred to as the "Double Gateway to the Rockies" thanks to its location at the junction of the North and South St. Vrain Highways, which both lead directly to Estes Park, as well as its location on the confluence of the North and South St. Vrain Creeks. Lyons is renowned for hosting the RockyGrass Bluegrass Festival (July) and the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival (August), two celebrated annual events that attract music enthusiasts from around the country.
The town is also a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, while its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the park's diverse ecosystems Lyons Redstone Museum and wildlife. Lyons also boasts a charming downtown area, where you’ll find the Lyons Redstone Museum with its insights into the local heritage and the town's development over the years.
The Final Word
It’s no secret that Colorado’s most charming small towns offer plenty of “big” appeal. Each of these destinations features a range of interesting attractions and experiences sure to capture the imagination of any traveller, whatever their interest. Find out more with this list of six small towns in Colorado with big charm. For even more ideas and inspiration, check out the official Colorado Tourism website.
